Planning a trip to Italy’s famous Lake Como?  Wondering which airport for Lake Como? I’ve got the answer below!

I recently spent a few fabulous days exploring Lake Como, so let me share the insider scoop on the airports that will get you there with ease.

which airport for lake como ?

In a nutshell, Milan Malpensa Airport is your top choice for reaching Lake Como. It has the most direct transport links and is the closest major international airport, just an hour from Como town. Read on for more details on Malpensa and other airport options.

The Complete Guide to  nearest airport to lake como

With its glittering blue waters, charming villages, and stunning alpine scenery, Italy’s Lake Como is an idyllic getaway destination. But with several airports to choose from, how do visitors get to this famous lake with ease?

As someone who has explored Lake Como’s tranquil shores, let me walk you through your airport options to start your vacation off right. I’ll provide detailed information on connections, travel times, and amenities to make planning smooth sailing.

which airport for Lake Como? 

nearest airport to Lake Como: Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Lake Como nearest airport is Milan Malpensa International Airport.  It’s the most convenient choice. Located about 50 km northwest of Milan, Malpensa sits only around 40 miles from Como and the southern end of the lake. 

That relatively short distance means you can reach the lake easily. Direct trains and buses connect Malpensa Airport to Como’s town center in just over an hour.

The Malpensa Express train runs from the airport to Saronno station, taking just over an hour. At Saronno, you connect directly to trains headed to Como San Giovanni station. This station is right in the heart of Como, just steps from the sparkling lakefront promenade.

Alternatively, you can take the TILO train line straight from Malpensa Airport to Como’s smaller Nord Lago station, bypassing any transfers. Another option is the shuttle bus from Malpensa direct to Milan’s central train station, where you can connect to frequent trains that reach Como in under an hour.

In addition to its convenience, Malpensa offers a wealth of flight options as Milan’s largest airport. It’s home to both full-service and budget airlines like easyJet and serves hundreds of destinations worldwide. 

The modern airport has two passenger terminals, each with its own train station. You’ll find ample services like currency exchange, restaurants, and shopping – it’s easy to pass the time before your flight by browsing the many high-end Italian boutiques.

The only downside of Malpensa is that it’s farther from the Lecco branch of Lake Como – expect a 75-minute journey by train and bus. But it remains the best positioned for reaching popular spots like Bellagio and Varenna.

Other nearby airport lake como: Milan Linate Airport (LIN)

Milan’s smaller Linate Airport is located just 8 km east of the city center. It offers another route to Lake Como, though reaching the lakeside towns involves a slightly longer journey of around 1.5 hours.

From Linate, you can take a 25-minute shuttle bus to Milan’s central train station. There you’ll find frequent connections to Como – the train journey takes 40 minutes. 

Alternatively, you can take the 73 bus from Linate to Forlanini train station, then transfer to trains bound for Como or Lecco. The downside is you’ll have to change trains in Monza.

Though it takes a bit more logistical planning, Linate can be a good choice if you find budget airfares within Europe. About a dozen airlines offer flights, including Alitalia and Lufthansa. The compact airport is easy to navigate and offers quality amenities.

If you’re planning to visit the Lecco side of Lake Como, Linate can be a better option than Malpensa – it’s only about a 45 minute drive or train journey to Lecco town.

Other Lake Como airports:  Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport 

Located 5 km east of Bergamo, this airport about 60 km northeast of Milan also provides a viable route to reaching Lake Como. The journey involves a transfer, but is direct and takes around 1.5 hours total.

Regular shuttle buses run from Bergamo Airport to the railway station in central Bergamo, taking just 15 minutes. From Bergamo station, there are direct trains to Lecco that take only 40 minutes, making this the fastest public transport option.

You can also take buses to Milan’s central station, then continue to Como – but the longer bus and train journey totals around 2 hours.

Bergamo Airport has rocketed in popularity in recent years as a major hub for low-cost carriers like Ryanair. Over 100 airlines serve the airport. With modern facilities and cheap flights, it’s an excellent budget choice for Lake Como.

The biggest downside is Bergamo’s farther distance – almost 60 miles from Como town. But it can be ideal if you find great flight deals.

Other Airports near lake como 

A few smaller airports like Brescia or Verona can also work for reaching Lake Como. But you’ll end up spending more time on ground transport like trains or buses – Verona is over 2 hours away by public transit, for example. 

For most travelers, the time and hassle are worth it to fly into one of the three major Milan airports.

Each offers the most convenient proximity and transport links to maximize your Lake Como vacation time.

Takeaway Airport near lake como italy  

While all three Milan airports are viable options, Malpensa stands out as the best airport for Lake Como travel. Its direct trains and buses whisk you to the serene lake in just over an hour. If you want the fastest, smoothest transport connections, you can’t go wrong with Malpensa as your starting point.

No matter which airport you choose, Lake Como’s fairytale charms await. Follow the tips above to decide which airport aligns best with your itinerary and budget. have an amazing trip! be sure to check out these other articles to help plan your perfect Lake Como Italy trip!