Lugano to Como Day Trip: Quick Facts
For those who love a quick overview, here are the essential details for your cross-border adventure from Switzerland to Italy.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~33 km / 20.5 miles |
| Travel Time | 35-45 minutes by direct train |
| Primary Transport | Direct Train (TILO S10 / RE80) |
| Estimated Cost (Per Person) | €60 – €125 for the day |
| Currency Needed | Euros (€) in Como, Italy |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | April-June & September-October |
How to Get from Lugano to Como
Crossing the border from Swiss precision to Italian charm is remarkably simple. While you have a couple of options, one stands out as the clear winner for a stress-free day trip.
By Train: The Easiest & Best Option
Without a doubt, taking the train is the most efficient, relaxing, and scenic way to travel between Lugano and Como. Forget about border queues, traffic, or the headache of parking—just sit back and enjoy the ride.
- Train Line: Look for the direct TILO S10 or RE80 services.
- Departure Station: Lugano’s main station (Stazione di Lugano).
- Arrival Station: Como San Giovanni. From here, it’s a pleasant 10-minute downhill walk to the beautiful lakefront and the historic city center.
- Journey Time: A swift 35-45 minutes.
- Frequency: Trains run very frequently, typically every 30 minutes, giving you great flexibility.
- Booking Tickets: The easiest way is via the SBB Mobile app (Swiss) or the Trenitalia website (Italian). You can also purchase tickets directly at the station machines.
By Car: Flexibility with a Few Challenges
Driving offers the freedom to set your own schedule but comes with some important considerations. The route is straightforward via the A2/E35 motorway, but be prepared for potential traffic near the border and within Como itself.
- Crucial Tip: To drive on Swiss motorways (including the road out of Lugano), you must have a Swiss motorway vignette sticker on your windshield. It costs around €40 for the year and is mandatory.
- Parking Warning: Como’s city center is a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), or Limited Traffic Zone. Unauthorized driving here will result in a hefty fine. We strongly recommend parking in a secure garage. Good options include Autosilo Valduce (~€2.50/hour) or Centro Lago Parking (~€2.20/hour), both located centrally.
Transportation Comparison Table
| Method | Time | Approx. Cost (Return) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 35-45 mins each way | €30 – €50 | ✅ Excellent: Relaxing, direct to city, no parking stress, frequent service. |
| Car | 40-50 mins+ each way | Variable (Fuel + Parking) | ⚠️ Moderate: Flexible but has potential traffic, complex parking, and ZTL/vignette rules. |
Top 5 Things to Do in Como on a Day Trip
With one day in Como, you can experience the very best of its lakeside magic. Here is a prioritized list to guide your adventure.
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Ride the Funicular to Brunate for Breathtaking Views
This is a non-negotiable Como experience! The historic funicular railway climbs steeply up the mountain to the charming village of Brunate. From the top, you are rewarded with an absolutely breathtaking panoramic view of Como, the sprawling lake, and the majestic Alps in the distance. A round trip costs about €6.10 and the funicular runs every 15-30 minutes. If you have extra time and energy, take the 30-minute walk up to the Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse) for an even higher vantage point.
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Explore the Magnificent Como Cathedral (Duomo)
Located in the heart of the city, the Duomo di Como is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Its ornate facade is captivating, and the interior is just as impressive with beautiful tapestries and artworks. Entry is free, but remember to dress respectfully (cover your shoulders and knees). It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring stop on your tour.
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Wander Through the Charming Old Town (Centro Storico)
Get lost in the delightful maze of cobblestone streets that make up Como’s Old Town. This is where you’ll discover hidden courtyards, boutique shops, and lively squares like the Piazza San Fedele with its beautiful Romanesque basilica. It’s the perfect place to soak up the authentic Italian atmosphere.
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Stroll Along the Lakeside Promenade (Lungo Lario Trieste)
No trip to Como is complete without a classic passeggiata (leisurely walk) along the lake. The elegant promenade takes you past grand villas, the impressive Tempio Voltiano (a museum dedicated to scientist Alessandro Volta), and the modern “Life Electric” sculpture by Daniel Libeskind. This is the perfect spot to grab a gelato and enjoy the serene views.
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Relax in the Gardens of Villa Olmo
A short walk along the western shore of the lake brings you to the stunning Villa Olmo. This grand neoclassical villa is framed by beautifully manicured public gardens. While the villa itself hosts temporary art exhibitions (requiring a ticket), the gardens are free to enter and offer a fantastic spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy a spectacular view back towards the city.
A Perfect One-Day Itinerary: Lugano to Como & Back
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Follow this step-by-step itinerary to maximize your time and enjoyment.
- 9:00 AM – All Aboard in Lugano: Start your day by catching an early morning TILO S10 or RE80 train from Lugano’s main station. Grab a coffee and a croissant for the quick journey south.
- 10:00 AM – Head for the Heavens: Arrive at Como San Giovanni and walk the 10 minutes to the funicular station. Take the ride up to Brunate and spend an hour soaking in the incredible panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
- 1:00 PM – Lunch with an Italian Flair: Descend back to Como and head into the Old Town. Find a charming trattoria in a quiet piazza and indulge in some authentic pasta or risotto for lunch. Don’t forget to enjoy a glass of local wine!
- 2:30 PM – Culture & Cobblestones: After lunch, it’s time for culture. Visit the magnificent Duomo di Como, then spend the next couple of hours exploring the enchanting streets and shops of the Centro Storico.
- 4:30 PM – Gelato & Lakeside Bliss: Make your way to the lakefront. Grab a scoop (or two!) of artisanal gelato from a local favorite like Gelateria Lariana and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade towards Villa Olmo.
- 6:00 PM – Aperitivo Hour & Return: Find a bar with outdoor seating near Piazza Cavour for a classic Italian aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink that comes with complimentary snacks. It’s the perfect way to cap off your Italian experience before walking back to Como San Giovanni for your train back to Lugano.
Where to Eat in Como (For Every Budget)
Budget-Friendly Bites (€)
For a quick, delicious, and affordable meal, look for shops selling pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or fresh panini. Panzerotti & Co. is a local favorite for savory filled pastries that are perfect for a grab-and-go lunch for under €10.
Classic Italian Lunch (€€)
For the full experience, dive into the Old Town and find a traditional trattoria. Places like Trattoria del Gallo offer a wonderful, authentic atmosphere and delicious local dishes. Expect to pay €25-€40 per person for a memorable meal. Remember that most restaurants in Italy add a small coperto (cover charge) of €2-3 per person.
A Lakeside Treat (€€€)
If you’re celebrating or simply want to splurge, book a table at a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the lake. Ristorante Sociale offers elegant dining and fantastic views, providing an unforgettable high-end experience for €50+ per person.
10 Insider Tips for Your Day Trip
Make your trip seamless with these essential tips!
- Carry Your Passport: You are crossing an international border. While formal checks are rare in the Schengen Area, you are legally required to carry a valid passport or national ID card.
- You’ll Need Euros (€): Don’t get caught out! Switzerland uses Swiss Francs (CHF), but Italy uses Euros (€). While cards are widely accepted, it’s wise to have some cash for small purchases like gelato or coffee.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on charming but uneven cobblestone streets. Your feet will thank you!
- Book Train Tickets in Advance: Use the SBB or Trenitalia app on your phone to buy and store your tickets. It’s convenient and saves time at the station.
- Validate Your Train Ticket: If you have a physical paper ticket purchased in Italy, you MUST validate it by stamping it in one of the small machines on the platform before you board.
- Check Opening Times: Be sure to check the opening hours for the Duomo and any museums you want to visit, as they can vary by season and day of the week.
- Embrace the Riposo: Many smaller, family-run shops in Italy close for a long lunch break (riposo) from around 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Plan your shopping accordingly.
- Learn a Few Italian Phrases: A simple “Buongiorno” (Good day), “Grazie” (Thank you), and “Per favore” (Please) will be much appreciated by locals.
- Pack a Portable Charger: Between navigating, taking photos, and digital tickets, your phone battery will drain quickly. A power bank is a lifesaver.
- Enjoy the Slower Pace: You’re in Italy now! Things move at a more relaxed pace. Slow down, savor the moment, and embrace the dolce vita (the sweet life).
What to Pack Checklist
- ✅ Passport / Valid National ID Card
- ✅ Euros (€) and a credit/debit card
- ✅ Comfortable walking shoes
- ✅ Smartphone with digital train tickets
- ✅ Portable power bank
- ✅ Camera
- ✅ Sunglasses and sunscreen (especially in summer)
- ✅ A light jacket or sweater (for cooler evenings or shoulder seasons)
- ✅ Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend on your day trip to Como.
| Item | Budget Estimate | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Return Train Ticket | €30 | €50 |
| Lunch | €15 | €40 |
| Attractions (Funicular etc.) | €7 | €15 |
| Coffee/Gelato/Snacks | €10 | €20 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~€62 | ~€125 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Lugano to Lake Como?
Yes, absolutely! It’s one of the easiest, quickest, and most popular day trips you can take from Lugano. A direct train connects the two cities in just 35-45 minutes, making it incredibly convenient.
Is it worth going to Lake Como for a day trip?
Yes, it is definitely worth it. A day gives you plenty of time to experience the highlights: the stunning lake views from Brunate, the beautiful Como Cathedral, the historic old town, and of course, authentic Italian food. It’s a perfect and memorable change of scenery from Switzerland.
What city in Switzerland is closest to Lake Como, Italy?
Lugano is the closest major Swiss city to Como and the southwestern branch of Lake Como. Its proximity and excellent transport links make it the ideal starting point for a day trip or a longer visit.
Is it worth going to Lugano from Como?
While this guide focuses on the trip to Como, the reverse journey is also a fantastic day trip! Lugano offers a unique blend of Swiss efficiency and Mediterranean culture, with wonderful attractions like Monte San Salvatore, Parco Ciani, and the lakeside promenade. The same easy train connection applies.
TL;DR: Your Lugano to Como Day Trip in a Nutshell
Pressed for time? Here’s the ultra-quick guide. Take the 40-minute TILO S10 train from Lugano to Como San Giovanni. Walk to the lakefront, ride the funicular to Brunate for epic views, then come back down to explore the Duomo and the charming Old Town. Grab a lakeside gelato, enjoy an aperitivo, and catch the train back. Remember to carry your passport and use Euros. It’s the perfect, easy cross-border adventure!
