The closest major international airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) located in Milan, Italy. From there, you can either rent a car and drive to Varenna (1.5 hours), or you can take a train from MXP into Milan, then to Varenna. Varenna's train station is called Varenna Esino. Some smaller airports around Milan include LIN and BGY.

Helpful sites we've used in the past:

- If looking to rent a car: www.rentalcars.com to compare options, prices, and company ratings.

- If looking to take public transportation: www.rome2rio.com to compare options, itineraries, and fares.

- If wanting to book the fastest train from MXP into Milan: https://www.malpensaexpress.it/en/. You can also buy tickets at the airport.

There are also several large cities with international airports within a few hours of Varenna if you and your family were looking to explore the region during your stay. A non-exhaustive list includes:

- Venice, Italy (VCE): 3.5 hour drive to Varenna

- Pisa, Italy (PSA): 4 hour drive to Varenna

- Zurich, Switzerland (ZRH): 4 hour drive to Varenna

- Rome, Italy (FCO, CIA): 4.5 hour train to Varenna

- Bern, Switzerland (BRN): 4.5 hour drive to Varenna

Of note, taxis around the area of Lake Como we are in are very limited. With that said, not renting a car is totally feasible and will involve an easy train ride from Milan to Varenna, then exploring on foot and using the public ferry system. If you are renting a car, driving in this area is fairly similar to doing so in the U.S. You might just encounter a few more roundabouts, some narrower streets, and may need to inquire into parking availability where you will be staying.