Looking to visit Lake Como? Here are my top 10 questions I asked about Lake Como. I wanted to pass along the information all in one place to make your trip planning even easier.
What is the best time of year to visit Lake Como?
We visited Lake Como in August… us and half of Italy… literally. Most of corporate Italy shuts down the entire month of August for vacation, so expect this to be the most expensive time to visit. The best time to visit Lake Como is during late spring (March to May) and after the country’s holiday from September to October. The weather is still generally mild, making it perfect for exploring the lake without the summer crowds. While you might not want to go swimming in March or October, the cooler months make it a cheaper time to visit.
How many days in Lake Como?
We decided to spend four nights in Como. I think 3-5 days in Lake Como is fantastic for many travelers. Each day can be spent visiting different towns, from Bellagio to Menaggio and Varenna. We even decided to take a train one day to Switzerland and visited Lugano. It’s an easy day trip and gives you a new spot to explore during your visit. If you have longer, you can spend a few days in the Franciacorta wine region, near Lake Iseo and Bergamo. For more information about the wine region, check out our post here.
What are the top attractions in Lake Como?
Lake Como is a luxury travel destination. The first activities that come to mind at Lake Como are spas and wellness retreats. The area has boating and hiking as well, but visiting luxurious villas is certainly a favorite pastime. We filled our days taking ferries to the different picturesque villages. Be sure to visit Bellagio, the “pearl of Lake Como” with historical cobblestone streets and stunning views. Stroll through the old town and enjoy the waterfront promenade. We also enjoyed the quaint village of Varenna, with narrow alleyways and a botanical garden. Since we were stationed in Como City, we enjoyed leisurely evenings in the square and visited the Como Cathedral.
It is expensive to visit Lake Como?
Visiting Lake Como can vary in expense based on the time of year you visit and which spot around the lake you decide to stay. As I’m sure you’ve guessed, Lake Como is the vacation spot of the rich and famous. As such, lakeside towns like Bellagio or Tremezzo offer premium accommodations with access by ferry or private yacht. If you are looking for more affordable accommodations, consider staying in Como city, which still offers access to the rest of the lake but for less. Accommodations can be $200/night for a midrange apartment in the shoulder season in Como City. Expect to pay more in one of the local villages like Bellagio or Varenna. Expect to spend $100-$150 pp. per day on food, local transportation (including ferry rides) and sightseeing activities. If you travel during off season, you can find more affordable options, though some activities and hotels close during the winter and shoulder seasons. I love Booking.com for my travel accommodations because they offer free cancellation and loyalty rewards.
What are the best towns to visit on Lake Como?
Lake Como is dotted with dozens of charming towns all along the Y-shaped waterfront that offer stunning views, historic architecture and various activities. The four most visited towns on Lake Como are: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Como, the main town at the southern tip of the lake and usually the base of one’s vacation in the area. Other towns like Tremezzo, Lenno and Lecco offer majestic villas, wedding venues and beautiful surroundings if you choose to venture further. Each town offers its own unique charm, but I would encourage you to stop in Como for the impressive cathedral, charming piazzas and a funicular ride to Brunate for the panoramic views.
Can you swim in Lake Como?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Como! The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, but the temperatures can be quite cool in Northern Italy. It’s typically warmer in July and August. When we visited in August, we had many rainy days and didn’t even attempt to jump into the water. If you want to swim, it’s important to stay in designated swimming areas, such as the public beaches in Menaggio or Lido di Bellagio. Check with locals for any restrictions in the area before taking a dip to avoid a fine and always be mindful of boats and potential hazards.
Are there boat tours available on Lake Como?
Yes, boat tours are a popular way to explore the lake and surrounding towns. The local ferry, Navigazione Laghi, offers public transportation around the lake to the most popular towns. I strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. During August, the lines were extremely long for tickets, and we often waited an hour to purchase a ticket for a time 2-3 hours later. If you don’t want to wait in the long public ferry lines, consider a private or small-group tour.
Is it safe to travel to Lake Como as a solo female traveler?
Yes, generally speaking Lake Como is a safe destination for travelers, even solo female travelers. Due to the wealthy tourists and celebrities, Lake Como has more security than other areas of Italy. However, that means additional security is needed due to pickpocketing and some petty theft. It’s important to keep your valuables protected and in sight. Remember to stay aware of your surroundings, especially on crowded ferries or while shopping in the villages. We didn’t have any issues, but I carried my Travelon fanny pack locked at all times.
How do I get to Lake Como?
The nearest airport to Lake Como is Milan. From Milan, you can take a train to Como city or the other towns around the lake. You can rent a car for the journey, but honestly the train is pretty straight forward, with only a 30-minute journey from Central Station to the Como S. Giovanni station. There are several bus services that run from Milan to various towns around Lake Como too if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option. Once you are around the lake, the public ferry can get you between the towns.
What is the weather like in Lake Como?
June tends to be the wettest month, with frequent thunderstorms. When we visited in August, we still saw the occasional rain, with some spots of sunshine and warmth. The driest time of year is the winter. If you are looking for least rain with mild temperatures, visit in April. Regardless of the time of year, expect some rain fall and pack light layers. Check out our guide to avoid overpacking.
Bonus: Can you see the Clooney’s house on Lake Como?
Yes, you can see George and Amal Clooney’s mansion, Villa Oleandra, from the lake. The villa is located near Laglio, a small village you pass on the ferry from Como city to Bellagio. If you are on a boat tour, you can catch a glimpse of the villa by water, but the local authorities guard against trespassing. There are regulations in place that prohibit boats from approaching too close to the villa, with fines imposed for violations. Still, enjoy spotting celebrity homes during your time in Lake Como!
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