If you’re looking for a picturesque destination in Italy, Lake Como should be at the top of your list. It is truly one of our favorite places to visit in Italy.
Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, this stunning lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain peaks and villages that look like they were taken straight out of a postcard.
But when is the best time to visit Lake Como? Read on to find out!
The Best Time To Visit Lake Como
The best time to go to Lake Como is from April to October when you can expect warmer weather.
If you wish to include swimming in your itinerary then I recommend you go for the summer months of July or August.
In my opinion, the best months to visit Lake Como is springtime from April until June. This season isn’t nearly as crowded or expensive as the summer months.
Keep reading to find more helpful information on what to expect weather-wise and what we recommend packing during each of the seasons mentioned above.
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1. Visiting Lake Como in March and April (Spring)
If you don’t mind colder weather, then Lake Como in March and April is a great time to visit. March might even be one of the cheapest months to visit Lake Como.
While temperatures do start to warm up during this time of the year, we still found the mornings and evenings to be really cold.
- In March (when accommodation is at its cheapest) you can expect to see average temperatures of around 10°C (50°F).
- In April you will see a temperature rise to around 17°C (62°F).
Whilst it is a great time to visit, it is important to note that you might experience rainy days. April can see around 10 days of rainy weather.
If you don’t mind the chilly mornings and evenings and don’t mind the potential for rainy days, then Spring is an ideal time to visit as all the flowers and trees start to get color.
The best part of visiting Lake Como during Spring is that the crowds haven’t quite descended yet, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this gorgeous area.
Activities that are perfect for this time of the year include: taking a boat trip to explore the towns, hiking, biking, or kayaking.
When traveling to Lake Como during April and May, make sure to pack warm clothes.
It’s best to bring a few layers of clothing such as sweaters, scarves, and jackets so that you can stay warm in the mornings and evenings, but take layers off when it warms during the day.
2. Visiting Lake Como in May and June (Late Spring)
Travelers visiting Lake Como from May to June can expect to experience some of the best weather and most stunning views that the area has to offer.
In addition, this is the prime season to visit Lake Como as it is not too busy yet, but you can start enjoying some of the warmer weather.
- In May, you can expect to see temperature highs of 21°C (70°F). One thing to keep in mind with May is that it is also one of the wettest months with 12 days of rain on average).
- June is a much better month to visit as it is drier and you can also expect to see temperature highs that reach 25°C (77°F).
March and June as great months to visit Lake Como if you want to enjoy hiking, biking, exploring towns by boat, and kayaking, and in June you can add on some swimming as well.
I still recommend that you bring along a light cardigan or jumper, especially if you are coming in March.
And if you would like to swim and you don’t like the cold water, I do recommend you come in the hotter months of July and August.
Overall, the best time of the year to visit Lake Como is during the spring months (April – June) if you wish to avoid the crowds, but still enjoy pleasant temperatures.
3. Visiting Lake Como in July and August (Peak Season – Summer)
Travelers visiting the Lake Como area in July or August (summer season) can expect to experience hot temperatures, long days of sunshine, and crystal-clear waters.
- During the months of July and August, you can expect to see temperature highs of up to 27°C (80°F), or even higher.
- July is one of the hottest months in Lake Como.
- You might still see rainy days, but they are way less common than in the Spring Season.
- Expect water temperatures to be at least 20°C, which is great for cooling down during a swim.
This is the best time for outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and sailing. I prefer hiking during cooler temperatures such as in the spring.
However, this is also peak season and the crowds at Lake Como can be overwhelming. Prices for hotels and restaurants will also be higher than usual.
Make sure to pack all things summer-related and don’t forget the sunscreen and a sun hat!
4. Visiting Lake Como in September and October (Autumn Months)
Travelers visiting Lake Como from September to October can expect to experience mild temperatures and foliage of Autumn leaves.
- Expect to see average temperatures of 19°C (66°F) in September, and around 15°C (59°C) in November. It can get pretty cold during these months with lows around 10°C (50°F).
- You might also see some rainy days – although less frequently in comparison to Spring and Summer.
This is a great time to visit if you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
The best part is that the crowds have gone and prices have started to drop, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore all that Lake Como has to offer without breaking the bank.
5. Visiting Lake Como in November till February (When Not To Visit Lake Como)
Lake Como is beautiful during the winter months, from November to February. During this time of year, the temperatures are brisk (kinda verging on freezing) and snow often covers the landscape.
- In November you can expect to see average temperatures of around 9°C (48°C).
- And by December and January, you will see maximum temperatures of only 8°C (46°F), with lows of around 3°C (37°F).
- Expect nighttime temperatures to drop even further, with some dropping to below 0°C (32°F).
- The coldest month in Lake Como is January.
The downside to visiting Lake Como in the winter months is that many of the villas and some of the restaurants will be closed. They also only run the slow ferries during these months.
It is however a great time to visit if you want to ski. There are some great ski resorts open Paini di Bobbio, Monte Sighignola and Valchiavenna.
So, if you are looking for a more traditional holiday experience in Lake Como, best to visit during the spring or summer months.
The Best Time To Visit Lake Como For Festivals
June is the perfect time to visit Lake Como if you’re looking for festivals and events to enjoy.
Each year, the area hosts festivals that celebrate art, culture, heritage, and Italy as a whole.
The festivals are nothing short of spectacular, with vibrant colors and sounds that completely transform the city into a lively hub of activity.
1. Fuochi Lariani
Fuochi Lariani is one of the most popular festivals in Lake Como and it happens annually on the last Saturday of June.
This spectacular festival celebrates Italian culture with vibrant fireworks exploding over the lake.
Organized by local associations, Fuochi Lariani starts in the evening when boats decorated with lights sail around the lake before fireworks light up the sky.
This is definitely an event that should not be missed if you’re visiting Lake Como in June!
2. Sagra de San Giovanni
Sagra de San Giovanni is one of the oldest festivals in Lake Como, celebrated over 600 years since its inception.
It takes place at the end of June and celebrates the very essence of Lake Como’s identity.
The Sagra de San Giovanni is a celebration of all things Italian, from regional food and wine to classical music and art.
This is definitely an event to remember if you’re visiting Lake Como in June!
3. Republic Day
Republic Day is an important national holiday celebrated all across Italy on 2nd June.
It marks the anniversary of the referendum held in 1946 that led to the modern republic of Italy.
On this day, parades are held throughout the cities and towns of Italy to commemorate this momentous event.
In Lake Como, Republic Day is marked with a special ceremony and parade that takes place along the waterfront.
Every year, thousands of people gather in Lake Como to celebrate this important day.
4. The Lario Jazz and R&B Festival
The Lario Jazz and R&B Festival is a must-see event for music lovers visiting Lake Como in June.
This popular festival brings together an eclectic mix of artists from all genres, including jazz, R&B, soul, funk, and more.
During the month of June, visitors can enjoy musical performances at venues around the lake.
So if you’re in Lake Como in June, don’t miss out on these festivals and events that make the city come alive!
The Best Time Of Year To Visit Lake Como FAQs
Here is a list of some of the most commonly asked questions about when to visit Lake Como.
The high season in Lake Como typically begins around mid-June and runs through early September.
During this time, temperatures are at their warmest and days are often sunny and clear.
Tourists flock to the region to take advantage of the warm climate and enjoy the many outdoor activities available on or around the lake.
The rainiest month in Lake Como is May, with 12 days of rain on average.
During this time of the year, the lake area experiences more frequent rain showers and thunderstorms than in other months.
The driest month in Lake Como is usually February.
During this time of year, the lake area enjoys a much lower average rainfall than other months. The average rainfall for February is around 35mm, making it the least rainy month of the year.
The best month to visit Lake Como is May. 
Temperatures start to warm up during this time, with sunny days and clear skies beginning to appear.
As it’s not yet peak season, prices are generally more affordable and crowds are smaller than in the summer months.
May is also ideal for those who want to enjoy the lake region’s stunning scenery and indulge in some of its best outdoor activities.
October is one of the best times to visit Lake Como in Italy.
The temperatures are mild with an average daily temperature of around 13°C (55.4 °F) – 16°C (60.8 °F).
This is the perfect time for outdoor activities, such as biking and hiking around the lake, along with sightseeing and exploring some of the area’s best attractions.
The best part about visiting in October is that the crowds have thinned out, so you can have a more peaceful and relaxing visit.
Plus, many of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars are still open during this time!
Final Thoughts On The Best Time To Go To Lake Como
No matter when you decide to visit Lake Como, there is sure to be something special for everyone.
From the stunning scenery and outdoor activities in May, to the colorful boat parades and fireworks of June, or even the musical performances at Lario Jazz & R&B Festival – it’s clear that this beautiful region has plenty of things going on no matter what season it is!
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience with a unique Italian flair, then consider planning your next vacation around one of these amazing events and festivities in Lake Como.
You won’t regret it!
Posts to help you with your planning:
- Bellagio Travel Guide (What to do and where to stay).
- Best Places To Visit On Lake Como.
- Want to visit Lake Como from Milan? Plan your Lake Como tour from Milan.
- Check out the best Lake Como luxurious hotels.
- Load more blog posts for you to explore on our Italy travel guide.
- Best Como car rentals so you can explore the lake at your own pace (that way you can also include a few day trips from Lake Como too).
- Make sure you check out the lake by boat. You can either take a public ferry or book one of these fantastic boat tours on Lake Como.
