How much does a vacation on Lake Como cost

For a direct round-trip flight in Economy Class from the US East Coast to Milan–Malpensa (MXP), expect prices starting around $600. This typically includes one checked bag (up to 50 lbs) and one carry-on. Business Class tickets are available from about $1,400.

Other nearby airport options include Lugano (LUG) in Switzerland, just 20 miles (33 km) away, as well as Milan–Linate (LIN) and Milan–Bergamo (BGY), the latter often served by low-cost airlines.

That said, if you’re already traveling in Europe, reaching Lake Como by car or train is often the more convenient choice. If you’re driving through Switzerland, don’t forget to factor in the mandatory Swiss freeway vignette (toll sticker).

On Lake Como, you can find a hotel room or a B&B in the 2–3-star category starting around $90 per night. Prices for 4-star hotels and small vacation apartments usually begin around $120 per night, while 5-star accommodations and resorts are significantly higher, often starting at $600 or more.

Rates can rise sharply during the summer vacation season. To save money, consider staying a bit farther from the shoreline if you have a rental car or don’t mind traveling into town.

No matter which option you choose, it’s smart to book as early as possible. On a destination as popular as Lake Como, accommodations often sell out quickly — and booking early can also help you secure better rates.

Prices for the most popular activities on Lake Como range from about $40 to $95. You might enjoy a wine cellar tour with tastings or join a small-group kayaking trip.

Travelers on a budget can explore the lake promenade and the old town of Bellagio for free. For $5 to $10, you can visit historic villas such as Serbelloni in Varenna or tour the charming coastal town of Bellagio. Other affordable highlights include a visit to the Bellano Gorge or a cable car ride from Argegno to Pigra.

For a more exclusive experience, activities typically cost between $130 and $165. Options include a vintage Vespa tour along Lake Como, a day trip to Lugano and Bellagio, or renting a motorboat to explore the lake at your own pace.

A rental car gives you maximum flexibility around Lake Como. Rates for a small car start at about $125 per day, mid-range cars from $195, and larger vehicles or SUVs from $215 and up. Gasoline costs around $7.50–$8.10 per gallon.

Public transportation is an affordable alternative. City bus tickets cost about $1.60, while a train ride from Colico to Lecco is around $4.50. Taxis charge a base fare of $8.70 plus about $2.70 per mile.

More unique — and very popular — are boats and cable cars. Ferries on Lake Como are frequent and reliable. For example, a round-trip ferry between Menaggio and Bellagio costs from $6.50.

Enjoy a meal at an inexpensive restaurant on Lake Como for about $11 to $33. In some local cafés or fast-food spots, you can find meals for as little as $9 to $13. A three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $44 and $130.

Local specialties include carpaccio with polenta, usually priced between $18 and $33, or missoltini (dried lake fish served with polenta), which ranges from $24 to $44. A cup of cappuccino averages around $2.

Restaurants located right on the lake are generally much pricier than snack bars or pizzerias just outside the main tourist areas. For a budget-friendly option, freshly made panini from a bakery or supermarket make a great snack on the go.