Lake Como Guide

The Cadenabbia to Bellagio Ferry: What to Know.

A short crossing with some of the best views on the lake. Here is what to expect, and how to plan around it.

Where the Crossing Goes

Cadenabbia is a small village on the western shore of Lake Como, a little south of Menaggio. From its pier, the ferry crosses the water to Bellagio, which stands on the tip of the promontory that divides the lake into its two southern arms.

The crossing is short, which is exactly why it works so well in the middle of a day: you leave one shore, and a little later you step off in a different world of stepped lanes, silk shops and waterfront cafés.

What the Crossing Is Like

From the deck you see wooded shores, villas and villages along the water, Bellagio’s promontory growing closer, and the mountains rising behind it. No road gives you this view of the lake, so it is worth staying outside for the whole crossing and keeping your camera ready.

Planning Around the Ferry

Ferry times change with the season, and boats can be busy in the high months. If you are travelling independently, keep these points in mind:

• Check the current timetable on the operator’s official site before you set out, and again for the return, so you know the last crossing back.
• Arrive at the pier early. In busy months a queue can form, and a missed boat can cost a good part of your day.
• Bring a light layer. It is often breezier on the water than on shore, and the weather on the lake can change quickly.
• Keep your time in Bellagio free. The lanes reward wandering, so do not plan the afternoon too tightly.

How It Fits into a Day with Menaggio

The crossing is the natural link between Menaggio and Bellagio. Spend the morning in Menaggio, have lunch, cross from Cadenabbia, then give the afternoon to Bellagio. Our guide explains the whole plan: How to See Menaggio and Bellagio in One Day.

Prefer to Have the Crossing Arranged?

On our Lakeside Italy day tour, the ferry tickets from Cadenabbia to Bellagio are included. The day starts and ends at Como San Giovanni railway station, with a Mercedes V-Class for up to seven guests and a long lunch near Menaggio. It costs €289 per person and runs in rain or shine. Coming from Milan? See how to reach the meeting point.

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Small-group day tours departing Como