How to get to Bellagio, traffic, limited traffic zone and parking
Bellagio is a beloved destination for motorcyclists and ideal for a day trip, especially during the mid-season. Let’s see how to reach this charming village on Lake Como and where to park if you’re traveling with a private vehicle.
Why visit Bellagio and when is the best time to go?
Nicknamed “the pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is an enchanting destination with a unique location: it sits right at the tip of the promontory dividing the lake’s two branches. Its narrow cobbled streets, historic villas with blooming gardens, and terraces overlooking the water make it a perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a day of relaxation and beauty.
Bellagio is great for a day trip, perhaps starting from Milan, Como, or Lecco, but it can also be a stop on a longer itinerary around Lake Como. Many enjoy visiting by motorbike, especially in spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the tourist crowds are smaller than in summer.
How to get to Bellagio: ferries, cars, and public transport
Bellagio is easily accessible from various cities in Lombardy. From Milan, you can get there in about an hour and a half by car via the SS36 toward Lecco, then follow the signs to Bellagio. Alternatively, you can opt for public transportation: take a train to Varenna and then a direct ferry to Bellagio—this is a scenic and relaxing option, though it takes longer.
From Como, you can take a boat and enjoy the journey across the water, which takes about an hour. However, note that the center of Bellagio is regulated by a year-round Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), restricting access to unauthorized vehicles. Entry is allowed only for residents, taxis, and public transport.
Where to park in Bellagio
For those arriving by car, to avoid entering Bellagio’s ZTL, you can park in the designated areas at the entrance of the village. The Lungolago Marconi Parking, located just a few steps from the center, is a good option but tends to fill up quickly on weekends and in the summer months. Another option is the free parking lot on Via Valassina, about a 10-minute walk from the center. From there, you can walk down toward the lakeside and start exploring Bellagio on foot.
Given the ZTL and the difficulty of finding parking in Bellagio during peak season, a useful tip is to arrive early in the morning—or better yet, leave your car in Varenna or Como and take a ferry instead for a more scenic and stress-free experience, without the hassle of driving and parking.
If you don’t have a car available, you can visit our rental office in Como or our rental offices in Milan. Alternatively, check all our locations in Lombardy and choose the one most convenient for you.
