Traveling from the picturesque Lake Como in Italy to the vibrant city of Zurich in Switzerland is a journey that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you prefer to travel by train, car, or ferry, this route promises breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and a seamless connection between two of Europe’s most captivating destinations.
Train Travel from Lake Como to Zurich
The train journey from Lake Como to Zurich is a popular choice for many travelers, offering a comfortable and efficient way to cover the distance of approximately 179 kilometers. The trip typically takes around 2 hours and 33 minutes, with 19 trains per day departing from various stations around Lake Como, such as Como San Giovanni and Varenna-Esino.
| Departure Station | Arrival Station | Duration | Frequency | Cheapest Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Como San Giovanni | Zurich HB | 2h 33m | 19 trains/day | $14.30 |
| Varenna-Esino | Zurich HB | 2h 33m | 19 trains/day | $14.30 |
The train operators on this route include the Italian Trenitalia and the Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS), ensuring a seamless cross-border experience. Booking your train tickets in advance can result in significant savings, with prices starting from as low as $14.30.
Driving from Lake Como to Zurich
For those who prefer the freedom and flexibility of a road trip, driving from Lake Como to Zurich is a viable option. The driving distance between the two destinations is approximately 159 miles (255.4 km), and the journey typically takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes, depending on traffic and driving conditions.
The estimated cost of driving from Lake Como to Zurich ranges from £40 to £60, depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and the specific vehicle used. This route offers the opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes and charming towns along the way, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Ferrying from Lake Como to Zurich
Another option for traveling from Lake Como to Zurich is to combine a ferry ride with a bus and train journey. This route starts with a short 11-minute ferry ride from Varenna to Menaggio, followed by a bus ride from Menaggio to Lugano, and then a train from Lugano to Zurich.
The total duration of this ferry, bus, and train combination is approximately 5 hours and 26 minutes, and the cost can range from £42 to £85, depending on the time of booking and availability. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more leisurely and picturesque journey.
Other Transportation Options
In addition to the train, car, and ferry options, there are a few other ways to travel from Lake Como to Zurich:
- Bus: The bus journey from Como to Zurich takes around 3 hours and 32 minutes, with prices starting from $22.
- Plane: While there are no direct flights from Lake Como to Zurich, you can fly from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Zurich Airport (ZRH) and then take a train or bus to Zurich city center.
Tips and Recommendations
When planning your journey from Lake Como to Zurich, consider the following tips and recommendations:
- Booking in Advance: Booking your train tickets in advance can result in significant savings, with prices starting from as low as $14.30.
- Direct Trains: If you prefer a more direct route, there are direct trains available from Como to Zurich, taking around 3 hours and 37 minutes.
- Scenic Route: The ferry and bus combination offers a scenic route with stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
- Explore the Destinations: Take time to explore the charming towns and cities along the way, such as Como, Varenna, Lugano, and Zurich, each with its own unique character and attractions.
Whether you choose to travel by train, car, or a combination of modes, the journey from Lake Como to Zurich is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and seamless connectivity between these two captivating destinations.
References
- https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Lago-di-Como/Z%C3%BCrich
- https://www.raileurope.com/en-us/destinations/como-zurich-train
- https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Como-Italy/Z%C3%BCrich
- https://www.omio.com/trains/como/zurich
- https://www.thetrainline.com/en-us/train-times/como-to-zurich