Weekend Getaway from Zurich to Lake Como

Tired of paying Zurich prices for your daily caffeine fix? In Como, you can sip a rich, perfectly pulled espresso for just €1–2 instead of dropping 4 francs without blinking. And it doesn’t stop there—the pastries are dangerously good, the gelato is on another level, and suddenly “just a quick coffee” turns into a full-blown indulgence.

Pair that with the charm of the historic old town and the laid-back lakefront atmosphere, and it’s exactly the kind of escape you need from busy Zurich. Fair warning: your taste buds may refuse to go back to Switzerland.

Getting There: Zurich to Como

Traveling from Zurich to Como is simple and convenient by train, making it ideal for a short weekend trip. If you have a Half Fare Card, the price becomes very reasonable.

Option 1: Direct Train (Fastest & Easiest)

The most straightforward option is a direct train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Como S. Giovanni.

• Duration: around 2.5–3 hours 

• Frequency: multiple departures daily

• Price: typically higher

  
  

This is the best choice if you want a smooth, no-hassle journey.

Option 2: Via Lugano (Cheaper & Flexible)

A popular alternative is traveling via Lugano:

• Zurich → Lugano (Swiss train)

• Lugano → Como (short regional train)

  
  

The second leg takes only 30 minutes , and tickets are often cheaper.

What to See in Como

Once you arrive, Como itself is more than just a gateway to the lake—it’s a charming little town worth exploring.

Historic Old Town

Stroll through the enchanting streets of Como’s old town, filled with cafés, boutiques, and Italian piazzas. The highlight is the impressive Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como), known for its intricate façade and beautiful interiors. I couldn't get enough of this. It reminded me of the famous Duomo in Milan, where many of Como’s day-trippers arrive from.

Funicular to Brunate

For panoramic views, take the Funicular Como–Brunate up to the hilltop village of Brunate. From the top, you’ll get breathtaking views over Lake Como and the surrounding Alps—especially at sunset. This is an absolute must in Como!

Lakeside Promenade

Enjoy a relaxed walk along the waterfront promenade. This is the perfect place to soak in the scenery, grab a gelato, and watch boats drift across the lake.

Exploring Lake Como by Boat

Public Ferries

The easiest and most affordable way to explore is by ferry. Regular boats connect Como with picturesque towns like:

• Bellagio

• Varenna

• Menaggio

These ferries are fast, they run frequently and offer incredible views along the way. If you are planning to take a lot of photos, this is not an ideal option. There is no open deck and taking photos through the windows could be tricky.

Scenic Boats: Slow Travel with a View

Scenic boats (sometimes called sightseeing cruises) are designed for the experience rather than just getting from A to B.

What makes them different:

• Slower routes focused on the most picturesque parts of the lake

• Open decks and panoramic seating

• Ideal for taking photos on the way

These boats often pass by famous villas (like George Clooney's) and hidden corners of the lake, making them ideal if you want to sit back and fully enjoy the scenery.

Private Boat Tours

If you are willing to spend a small fortune, consider a private boat tour. These typically include:

• Scenic cruising along the lake

• Views of historic villas

• Stops for swimming or exploring hidden spots

I would choose this option for a special occasion such as engagement or anniversary, especially if you are planning to book a photo session.

Tips for Boat Travel

• Sit outside if possible—the views are the highlight

• Bring sunscreen and a wind breaker

• Check schedules in advance, especially in the off-season

• Be prepared for long lines for the tickets on sunny days and during peak season

• If you don't have a lot of time, go with the ferry

We arrived in Como at 9:30 and made our way slowly toward the harbour. The line for boat tickets took nearly an hour, and the first available ferry wasn’t for another three hours.

To pass the time, we wandered through the old town, visited the cathedral, and enjoyed an incredibly delicious pizza before heading back to catch our boat to Bellaggio. On the way back, we opted for a scenic cruise—and it turned out to be the highlight of the day.

Why It’s the Perfect Weekend Trip

If this little escape to Lake Como reminded you how special it is to pause, explore, and create memories, that’s exactly what I love capturing through my work.

I’m Denisa Sciortino, a Zurich canton–based photographer, specializing in natural, heartfelt portraits and meaningful moments—whether it’s the birth of your child, a baptism, birthday celebrations, graduation portraits, or personal branding sessions. My goal is simple: to turn your real-life moments into timeless images you’ll treasure for years to come.

If you’d like to capture your own special moments, feel free to get in touch—I’d love to hear your story and plan a session that feels truly you.