Your Voyage begins
We want to make your journey to our wedding weekend as seamless as possible. This page is designed to walk you through exactly how travel to Lake Como works—from booking your international flight, to coordinating your transfers to and from the lake. From the moment you begin planning your overseas travel to your return journey home, we’ve outlined each step to help make the process feel clear and easy. If you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re more than happy to help guide you and talk through the best itinerary for you.
Recommended flights and arrival
BY AIR— For travel to Milan, Italy there are two primary international airports: Milano Malpensa (MXP) and Milano Linate (LIN).
— We recommend flying into Milano Malpensa (MXP). As the larger international hub, MXP generally offers more direct flight options and superior connections for international travelers. It also is the closest airport to Lake Como.
— Arrival Window: We encourage guests to arrive no later than Monday, September 28, allowing time for potential travel delays, settling in, and enjoying a day exploring Lake Como before the Welcome Event on September 29.
Your journey to the Lake
Once you land at Milano Malpensa (MXP), you have three primary options for reaching your accommodations around the Lake:
BY CARThe Independent Option
—Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore the lake region at your own pace—just keep logistics in mind.
— Estimated drive time: about 1 hr 15 min–1 hr 30 min, depending on traffic and your exact lakeside destination.
— Typical rental rates: roughly $40–$150 per day, plus fuel and tolls (season and car type can shift pricing).
—Best for: Guests planning day trips beyond the lake and comfortable with European driving norms.
—Keep in mind: Lake roads can be narrow and winding, traffic is common, and parking is often limited.
—International Driving Permit (IDP): U.S. visitors are required to carry an IDP with their valid U.S. license while driving in Italy. You can obtain one through AAA $30 before you travel.
—Recommended rental companies: Sixt, Avis, Europcar, and Hertz.
TRAIN + FERRYThe Scenic Option
— Trains offer a cost-effective and scenic route to the main towns on the Lake.
— From Milano Malpensa (MXP) to the town of Menaggio: This journey requires three stages and typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
— The combined cost for both the train and the ferry is approximately €30–€40 per person, each way.
— This route requires taking two different trains, with one switch in the middle.
— Airport to Como Town: At the airport, board the train called the Malpensa Express. Take this train to the Saronno station and get off there. At Saronno, switch to a local train line Trenord. Make sure this new train is heading to the Como Nord Lago station. That is your final stop right in town.
— Como Town to Ferry Dock: Exit the Como Nord Lago station and walk a short distance (approx. 5–10 minutes) to the Ferry Terminal in Como Town.
— Ferry to Menaggio: Purchase a ticket for the local ferry service to your final destination, Menaggio. Ferries run multiple times daily, but schedules vary by season.
— Backup option: If ferry times don’t line up, take the C10 bus from Como to Menaggio (Como bus station)
BY PRIVATE TRANSPORTThe Most Seamless Way to Arrive
—For guests seeking the most direct, comfortable, and stress-free journey to Lake Como, we recommend arranging private transportation in advance—especially after a long international flight.
— Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic and your final accommodation.
— Ideal for: Groups, guests traveling with multiple pieces of luggage, or anyone preferring a more effortless arrival experience.
— Arrival experience: Your driver will greet you in Arrivals with a name sign, and most services will monitor your flight and include complimentary wait time should your arrival be delayed.
— Private transfer pricing: Rates are typically quoted per vehicle rather than per person and vary based on car or van size, time of day, and final destination. As a general guide, private transfers often range from $200–$250 one way.
— Shared group transfers:
MXP // Menaggio: For guests arriving on Sunday, September 27 into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), we are arranging a group bus transfer to Menaggio. The bus is scheduled to depart at 1:00 PM, timed to coincide with the nonstop American Airlines flight scheduled to arrive at 11:30 AM.
Centro Milano // Menaggio: For guests departing the city of Milano on Sunday, September 27 we are arranging a group bus transfer to Menaggio departing at 11am.
— Cost: The one-way group transfer MXP x Menaggio $45 per person & Centro Milano x Menaggio $50 per Person.
— Return transfer: We are also coordinating a return group transfer on October 1st & October 2nd, departing Menaggio at noon and returning to MXP / Centro Milan.
— Arriving on another day/ time? If your travel plans fall outside the group transfer schedule or would prefer a private transfer, we would be happy to share details for a one-way transfer from Milan Malpensa Airport to Menaggio. Current pricing for a Sprinter (7–8 seats) is approximately $320 one way.
— Additional recommendations: Contact information for trusted private transportation partners will also be shared for guests who prefer to arrange their own service.
Menaggio
with the Machados
OUR BASE ON THE LAKELocated on the western shore of Lake Como, Menaggio offers direct ferry access to Bellagio, Varenna, and other lake towns. Its walkable center (Piazza Garibaldi), a lakeside promenade, restaurants, local shops, and a variety of hotels and apartments, making it an ideal place to stay throughout the week.
Important: all wedding transportation — lake transfers & land transfers — will depart from Menaggio. To keep your experience seamless, we strongly recommend staying here.
Local tip: If you want to be in the heart of the town atmosphere, look for accommodations near Via MyLius, Via Calvi, Old Town, and along Largo Cavour. This area is ideal for strolling, lake walks, coffee stops, gelato breaks, and easy ferry access.
Boat Departure Point: Boat transfers, on both days, will depart from a dock located on Via Mylius, just next to the Grand Hotel Victoria.
Vacation Rentals
In our experience, Airbnbs are the best fit for most guests — more space, a local feel, and typically much better value than hotels on the lake. They’re ideal for groups or longer stays, with the added flexibility of shared living space and at-home comforts.
We especially recommend an Airbnb if:
You’re open to sharing loding with Friends & Family
You’re planning on renting a car to explore, or
You choose a place in central Menaggio, close to walkable spots and the main ferry line.
We’ve linked a curated Airbnb list on this page with a range of selections we love — different styles, sizes, and price points that are aligned with the week. Of course, you’re welcome to stay anywhere you’d like, but we hope these recommendations make planning easier.
Hotels & Boutique Stays
If you’re drawn to a hotel experience, Menaggio and the surrounding towns offer beautiful lakeside properties with a more traditional, fully serviced stay. Think polished comfort, on-site hospitality, and the ease of having everything handled for you — from breakfast to concierge support.
A hotel may be the right fit if:
You prefer daily service and a turn-key stay
You love having amenities on-site (restaurants, pools, wellness facilities)
You’d like a simpler arrival and check-in experience
A gentle heads-up: hotels on Lake Como are notably more expensive than Airbnbs.
We’ve linked a curated hotel list with a range of selections that are convinently located and well rated.
AIR BNBWe’ve gathered a list of Airbnbs around Menaggio, chosen for location, comfort, and easy access to ferries and wedding transportation. You’ll find a mix of styles and price points—homes in the center, lake-view stays, & options for couples, families, or groups
GRAND HOTEL VICTORIAA refined five-star property with Art-Nouveau bones and a fresh, contemporary renovation—quietly luxurious, design-led, and set within beautiful gardens just off the lake. Expect polished rooms, a striking outdoor pool, and a full spa for a true reset. It’s a short, easy walk to Menaggio’s center and the ferry/boat dock, so you get both atmosphere and seamless access to the lake.
VRBOWe’ve linked a short VRBO list of Menaggio stays that are well-placed for the celebration. Overall, these picks lean apartment-style, comfortable, and practical — ideal for settling in for a few days on the lake.
HOTEL ROYALHotel Royal is a charming, boutique-style hotel set just above the town of Menaggio, offering a peaceful and scenic stay overlooking Lake Como. Tucked into the hillside in the quiet Loveno area, it feels secluded and tranquil while still being only about a 5–15 minute drive or walk from the lakefront and town center.
HOTEL GARNI CORONAA charming, family-run three-star stay along Menaggio’s lakefront promenade, with a classic Como feel and beautifully refreshed rooms. It sits right in front of the boat dock we’ll be using—perfect for guests who want to be in the heart of town with effortless access to the lake and events.
SUITES MENAGGIODesign-forward suites on Piazza Garibaldi with a clean, modern aesthetic and an unbeatable location—just moments from the ferry terminal and the boat dock for our lake transfers.
GRAND HOTEL MENAGGIOA classic, lakefront hotel with timeless Lake Como charm—elegant, relaxed, and perfectly placed in the center of town. It’s a true splurge stay with standout water views, lovely terraces, and an outdoor pool for slow afternoons. Just a 2-minute walk to the Menaggio ferry terminal, it makes getting around effortless, with ferry access and town at your doorstep.
PIAZZA DEL LAGOPiazza del Lago is a charming boutique stay in the heart of Lake Como. Surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and scenic promenades, it’s a central gathering place known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.
Getting around on the Lake
Once you’ve arrived and settled in, navigating Lake Como becomes part of the charm. Complimentary wedding transportation will be provided for the primary event transfers, but for any time in between, we encourage you to enjoy the area at your own pace. Whether you’re venturing into town for an aperitivo, exploring a neighboring village, or simply taking in the beauty of the lake, there are several convenient and picturesque ways to get around. Below, we’ve outlined the best options for exploring on your own throughout the weekend.
Ferry Service:
The ferries are the best and most scenic way to hop between the picturesque mid-lake towns (e.g., Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio).
• Best For: Sightseeing, day trips, and local dining.
• Recommendation: Familiarize yourself with the Navigazione Laghi schedules upon arrival.
Local Taxi Service:
While taxis are available, they are typically less abundant than in major cities. Taxis cannot be flagged down on the streets of Lake Como and are difficult to book on your own without hotel assistance. Uber is not available on the Lake.
• Tip: If you need a taxi, ask your hotel concierge to call one for you.
Walking & Exploring:
Many of the central lake towns are small and pedestrian-friendly.
• Tip: Embrace walking! This is the best way to discover hidden lanes, small shops, and local cafés. Wear comfortable, chic shoes, as the streets are often cobblestone.
Driving
If you rent a car, you can explore by road at your own pace.
• Best For: If you want to explore the lake on your own time and terms.
• Car Ferry Option: Some mid-lake ferries allow vehicles—check schedules for routes marked for cars.
• Parking Note: Most towns have public lots/garages.