Milan to Varenna train with Regionale

Thu, Jul 09
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Regionale
Trenord
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Trenord
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Milan to Varenna

Showing times and prices for Jul 09

Cheapest price

$9

Average price

$9

Fastest journey

1 h 4 m

Average duration

1 h 4 m

Trains per day

17

Distance

61 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Milan to Varenna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Milan to Varenna will cost around $9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.

Fast trains

Of the 17 trains that leave Milan for Varenna on Thu, Jul 09, 17 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 09 the direct trains cover the 61 km distance in an average of 1 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 4 m .

On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest trains will take 1 h 4 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 2820
    10:20 AM1h04
    Milan Centrale
    11:24 AMVarenna-esino
    $91One-way
    0 transfers
  • RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 2812
    6:20 AM1h04
    Milan Centrale
    7:24 AMVarenna-esino
    $91One-way
    0 transfers
  • RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 2818
    9:20 AM1h04
    Milan Centrale
    10:24 AMVarenna-esino
    $91One-way
    0 transfers
  • RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 2828
    2:20 PM1h04
    Milan Centrale
    3:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $91One-way
    0 transfers
  • RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 2840
    8:20 PM1h04
    Milan Centrale
    9:24 PMVarenna-esino
    $91One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Milan to Varenna

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Milan to Varenna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a bus costs an average of $9.

Distance: 37 miles (61 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$9

Average price

Cheapest

$9

Average price

$25

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 39m

Average total duration

1h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 22m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Regionale

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Milan to Varenna is a train with an average price of $9 (€8).

This is compared to other travel options from Milan to Varenna:

A train is $0.02 (€0.02) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Milan to Varenna costing on average $9 (€8).

The fastest way to travel from Milan to Varenna is by train with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Varenna take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 9m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Milan and Varenna including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milan to Varenna among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 17m faster (1h 5m by train vs 1h 22m by car) and roughly $15 (€13) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($9 (€8) vs $25 (€20)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Regionale, Trenord.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Milan to Varenna train times

The table below shows live departures for Milan to Varenna trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28126:20 AM Milan Centrale
1h04
7:24 AM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28147:20 AM Milan Centrale
1h04
8:24 AM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28168:20 AM Milan Centrale
1h04
9:24 AM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28189:20 AM Milan Centrale
1h04
10:24 AM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 282010:20 AM Milan Centrale
1h04
11:24 AM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 282211:20 AM Milan Centrale
1h04
12:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 282412:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
1:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28261:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
2:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28282:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
3:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28303:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
4:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28324:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
5:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28345:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
6:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28366:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
7:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28387:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
8:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28408:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
9:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 28429:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
10:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect
RegionaleRegionale TRENORD 284410:20 PM Milan Centrale
1h04
11:24 PM Varenna-esino0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

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Milan to Varenna by trainMilan to Varenna by Train: The Scenic Route to Lake Como

By Koen Berghuis

x
Koen BerghuisTravel Creator and Rail Writer
Koen Berghuis
Koen Berghuis is a rail expert and passionate train traveler who logs about 20,000 kilometers by train each year, exploring routes across Europe and beyond. Koen writes about his travels on his website, Paliparan, where you find dozens of train reviews and trip reports.

Milan and Varenna, a popular tourist destination on the shores of Lake Como, are linked by frequent regional trains. It’s a scenic journey, as part of the route runs along a railway line that hugs the lakeshore. By taking the train, you can enjoy beautiful views over Lake Como even before you arrive.

The Trenord train from Milan arriving in Varenna

The Trenord train from Milan arriving in Varenna

Route overview

The train from Milan to Varenna is operated by Trenord, which runs regional and suburban passenger trains in the northern Italian region of Lombardy.

There is a direct train to Varenna from both Milano Centrale and Milano Porta Garibaldi. Unless you are staying close to Porta Garibaldi, I highly recommend taking the train from Milano Centrale, as the service to Varenna from there is much faster and stops at fewer stations along the way.

From Milano Centrale, the rail distance to Varenna is 71 kilometers (44 miles), and trains take 1 hour and 4 minutes.

Transportation experience

I booked my ticket from Milan to Varenna on Omio, which made it easy to compare fares and schedules.

When you book a regional train ticket in Italy online, it is tied to the specific departure you choose. However, you can still modify the date or time, as long as the train you originally booked has not yet left.

If you buy a paper ticket for a regional train, you need to validate it in one of the platform machines before boarding. Failing to do so may result in a fine. Validating your ticket is not needed if you booked it online.

Departure station

I recommend arriving at least 30 to 40 minutes before your train departs from Milan’s central railway station. If you’ve never used this busy station before, extra time helps you find your way around. Milan Centrale has many shops, bars, and restaurants. If you need food or drinks, buy them before departure, as regional trains do not sell them.

To access the platforms at Milan Centrale, scan the QR code on your ticket to pass through the barriers. Then, check the departures board to find your train’s platform and board. Trains from Milan Centrale to Varenna show Sondrio or Tirano as the final destination, as Varenna is an intermediate stop.

Arrival station

The railway station in Varenna is officially called Varenna-Esino, and it will appear under this name in online timetables and on departure boards. From the station, the lakeshore and Varenna’s town center are just a 10-minute walk away. There is a great bar in the old station building if you need a snack or some refreshments.

Schedule & frequency

Trains from Milan to Varenna follow a clockface schedule, with a departure exactly once every hour throughout most of the day.

Onboard experience & services

Trenord trains between Milan and Varenna offer both first and second class, though the seats are largely the same, with seating in both classes in a 2+2 layout. First class tends to be quieter and less crowded, which is its main advantage.

These trains are standard regional services, so onboard facilities are limited. Most seats have power sockets and toilets, but don’t expect additional amenities. For a short journey like the one from Milan to Varenna, I do think these trains are perfectly comfortable, though!

Ticketing advice & budget breakdown

For my train ticket from Milan to Varenna, I paid €7.40. Tickets for Italian regional trains have fixed prices and do not sell out. It makes no difference whether you buy your Milan-Varenna train ticket before or on the day of travel.

ItemCost (eur)
Ticket price7.4
Food & drinks2
Travel to departure station2.2
Travel from arrival station0
Total11.600000000000001

Top tips & recommendations

  • Make sure to arrive at the platform early, as regional trains have only unreserved seating, and boarding promptly helps you secure a good spot.
  • Sit on the left side of the train in the direction of travel for fabulous views over Lake Como.

Conclusion

Taking the train is the best way to get from Milan to Varenna. Ticket prices are very affordable, and the trains themselves are quite comfortable. What I like best is the journey itself, as you are treated to stunning views of Lake Como from the train window.

Varenna-Esino railway station

Varenna-Esino railway station

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Milan to Varenna?

The best time to book your train from Milan to Varenna is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Milan to Varenna route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Milan to Varenna per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Milan to Varenna.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Milan to Varenna

ItalyItaly
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Milan to Varenna run on average 26 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 37 miles (61 km) distance in 1h 3m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
37 miles (61 km)
Average train duration
1h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
$9 (€7)
Trains per day
26
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
1h 3m
First train
12:09 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
28 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Train companies: Regionale, Trenord from Milan to Varenna trainsRegionale, Trenord trains will get you between Milan and Varenna from $9 (€7). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Regionale

About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Trenord

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€6)
Trenord frequency
12 a day

Complete guide to Varenna

Things to do in Varenna

Discover the best of Varenna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varenna trip today.

  • Recommended

Villa Monastero Museum House

Historic villa museum with furnished interiors and cultural collections inside one of Lake Como's most elegant estates. Best paired with the botanical garden visit.

  • Recommended

Casa Museo Villa Monastero

The museum section of Villa Monastero showcases period rooms and the historic residence connected to the lakeside villa complex. Popular with visitors seeking heritage interiors.

  • Recommended

Castello di Vezio Museum and Falconry Area

A hilltop heritage site above Varenna combining a small exhibition component with the castle grounds and falconry demonstrations. More visited for the setting than for museum displays.

Euro

Lake Como prices are above Italy's average in tourist areas, but casual meals and coffee remain manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 10-18 for pizza, panini, or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
EUR 20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
EUR 50-90 per person at upscale lakefront spots.
Coffee
EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good table service is appreciated. Round up for taxis.

Traveling by train from Milan to Varenna

The train connection between Milan and Varenna is both convenient and scenic, making it a popular choice for travelers. Operated by Trenitalia's Regionale service, the journey offers stunning views of the Italian countryside as you travel from the bustling city to the serene shores of Lake Como. With frequent departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their trip to explore Varenna’s charming streets and picturesque landscapes.

Train Connection: Milan to Varenna

Traveling from Milan to Varenna takes approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes. There are a total of 12 connections available each day, all of which are direct trains. Passengers can board the train at Milano Porta Garibaldi or Milano Centrale and arrive at Varenna-esino station.

Milan to Varenna Train Connection

The first daily train from Milan departs at 06:20, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful lakeside town of Varenna. The last train of the day leaves Milan at 20:20, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.

Train Tickets Price for Milan to Varenna

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Milan to Varenna is €7. The average ticket price typically hovers around €7 as well, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore this beautiful region of Italy.

Exploring the Treasures of Varenna: Villa Monastero, Castello di Vezio, and Chiesa di San Giorgio

Welcome to Villa Monastero, a stunning historical villa that dates back to the 12th century. This enchanting property not only served as a monastery but also transformed into an elegant residence showcasing exquisite gardens and breathtaking views of Lake Como. One unique feature is its remarkable botanical garden, which boasts diverse plant species from around the world, making it a true paradise for nature lovers.

Next on our journey is Castello di Vezio, perched high above Varenna with origins tracing back to the Middle Ages. This castle played a crucial role in defending the region against invasions and offers visitors panoramic vistas that are simply unforgettable. A standout attraction here is the falconry display; you can witness majestic birds of prey soaring through the sky while learning about their fascinating behaviors.

Finally, we arrive at Chiesa di San Giorgio, an iconic church known for its striking Romanesque architecture dating back to the 11th century. Its significance lies not just in its age but also in being home to beautiful frescoes and intricate wooden altars that reflect centuries of artistic heritage. The bell tower stands out as one of Varenna's most recognizable features—climb up for yet another spectacular view over this charming lakeside town!

FAQs: Trains from Milan to Varenna

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milan to Varenna by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Varenna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Milan to Varenna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€7), while the average price is around $9 (€8).
The train from Milan to Varenna takes 1h 3m and runs 26 per day.
The first train from Milan to Varenna leaves at 12:09 AM.
The distance by train from Milan to Varenna is 37 miles (61 km).
The last train from Milan to Varenna leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Milan to Varenna.
Yes, there is a direct train from Milan to Varenna. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Regionale, Trenord.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Milan to Varenna.
The train station in Milan that goes to Varenna is Milan Centrale, which connects to Varenna-esino.
The cheapest way to get from Milan to Varenna is by train, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
Yes, the train journey from Milan to Varenna is considered scenic as it travels through picturesque landscapes of Northern Italy, offering views of lush greenery, charming villages, and the stunning Lake Como.
Yes, a day trip from Milan to Varenna is feasible. The journey takes 1h 3m with a distance of 37 miles (61 km). Trains run frequently, with 25 trips per day.
In Varenna, you can explore charming streets with local shops and cafes, take a boat tour on Lake Como for stunning views, and visit the Civic Museum of Ornithology and Natural Sciences. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard or join a cooking class to learn traditional Italian dishes. Key sights include Villa Monastero with its botanical gardens, Castello di Vezio with medieval charm and falconry displays, and the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio. Don't miss the short river Fiumelatte with its milky waters, and the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati for leisurely lakeside walks.
For a fulfilling experience in Varenna, plan to stay 2 to 3 days to explore its charming streets, visit Villa Monastero, and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Como.
Yes, you can take the train from Milan to Varenna.
Since both Milan and Varenna are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Varenna include Bergamo, Lecco, Como, Tirano, Lierna.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milan to Varenna among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Varenna, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as ferry docks and popular walking paths. It's also advisable to avoid unofficial taxi services and only use licensed providers. While the town is generally safe, staying vigilant around busy tourist spots helps prevent common scams like overpriced dining or souvenir shops.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

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