Getting the slow boat in Lake Como was a wonderful way to see the area. We took the boat from Como to Bellagio and enjoyed some spectacular views along the way. Read our full 4 day Lake Como itinerary. 

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Lake Como Boat timetable

The timetable changes each season so, be sure to check before making plans. At the time of writing it is showing a winter timetable and there are no slow boat services available on the same route we did Como to Bellagio. Head to Navigazione Laghi and click on timetables and lines. To find the timetable for the same trip we did, look to the left and you will see Lake Como. The dates will be listed underneath and then boats and rapid services. For this journey it is Como – Colico. The rapid services are in red and slow boats are in black. There is also a separate timetable for the car ferry service.

Buying tickets for slow boat on Lake Como

Tickets cannot be bought in advance, they are sold only on a daily basis. We found this out after trying to buy our tickets the afternoon prior. 

In Como, the Navigazione Lago Di Como ticket office was located just across the road from our hotel Albergo Terminus. You will find it in front of the pier and it is titled on Google Maps. We arrived early to buy our tickets and asked for two, one-way tickets on the slow boat to Bellagio. While waiting we took in the view and watched boats coming and going. After seeing a large tour group approaching we took our place in the queue at the pier gate so, we could get decent seats onboard. 

Lake Como boat prices

A one-way ticket Como to Bellagio on the slow boat cost us 10.40 Euro. To check the current price list, go to the Navigazione Laghi website and click tickets and subscriptions from the top menu. At the time of our trip, we weren’t sure whether there was an option that allowed ‘hop on, hop off’ at other towns. Looking at the online prices it might be the second option. If you want to get off to explore other towns, say it at the time of buying your tickets.

Getting the slow boat from Como to Bellagio

We were able to get two seats up top by the side of the boat. Choosing to sit on the far side turned out to be the right choice as this was the side that pulled into the piers. The other side was also quite foggy. For about two hours we sat and enjoyed beautiful views of the lake, mountains and small towns.

You can buy drinks and snacks from the onboard bar. An announcement comes over the speakers letting everyone know what town the boat will be stopping at, to give plenty of time for people to be ready to disembark. 

Here’s a photo guide to give an idea of what you will see when getting the slow boat on Lake Como and why we think it’s something worth doing.

Mountain views

Lake Como is surrounded by mountains and they look absolutely stunning when viewed from out on the water. 

Lake Como towns

As the slow boat stops at towns along Lake Como, you are able to get close up views of the towns luxury hotels, houses and churches. 

An island on Lake Como

There is an island located in Lake Como, Isola Comacina and you can view it from the slow boat. If you get a ticket that allows stops you could also hop off to explore the island on foot as the boat made a quick stop here. 

Lake Como villas

The slow boat passes by extravagant villas. One of them is particularly famous, Villa del Balbianello features in Casino Royale and Star Wars. 

We think getting the slow boat is one of the best things to do in Lake Como. The scenery is incredible and we were able to simply sit, relax and enjoy the ride. 

What camera did I use?

I used this Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera w/ 16-50mm Lens & Two 64GB SD Card Bundle with this lens Sony – E 10-18mm F4 OSS Wide-angle Zoom Lens (SEL1018)

Watch our Lake Como Slow Boat video!

Use the map to find accommodation in the Lake Como area.