Lake Como, Italy Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Framed by Alpine foothills, Lake Como weaves shimmering waters and historic towns into a tapestry of elegance. As some of the most graceful villas in Italy, Lake Como private villas offer secluded gardens and panoramic lake views just steps from cobbled streets. Luxury villas in the Italian Lakes feature grand salons and infinity pools overlooking the water. Set against a magnificent backdrop, wedding and event villas transform 18th-century estates into unforgettable soirées beneath moonlit skies. Meanwhile, large group villas welcome guests with sprawling terraces and private docks for a true lakeside retreat.

Why Lake Como, Italy?

  • Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy.
  • The average depth of Lake Como is approximately 410 metres.
  • The area around Lake Como is home to many luxurious villas and hotels.
  • The lake is a popular destination for water sports including sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
  • The lake is fed by the Adda River and is drained by the Tresa River.

Lake Como, Italy Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
41° F
° F
February
45° F
° F
March
52° F
° F
April
59° F
° F
May
66° F
° F
June
73° F
° F
July
79° F
° F
August
77° F
° F
September
72° F
° F
October
61° F
° F
November
50° F
° F
December
43° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.8 inches
February
2.8 inches
March
3.9 inches
April
4.9 inches
May
6.2 inches
June
5.3 inches
July
4.3 inches
August
5.4 inches
September
4.8 inches
October
5.3 inches
November
4.7 inches
December
2.5 inches

History

Located in the northern region of Lombardy, Italy, Lake Como has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the Roman Empire. The lake, which is the third largest in Italy and stretches over 56 square miles, has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike for centuries.

The area surrounding Lake Como was first inhabited by the Celtic tribe known as the Insubres, who were later conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC. The Romans were drawn to the lake for its strategic location and fertile land, using it as a trading post and agricultural hub.

During the Middle Ages, the lake and its surrounding towns were ruled by various noble families, including the Visconti and Sforza families. These noble families built grand palaces and villas along the lake’s shores, many of which still stand today and are open to the public.

In the 19th century, Lake Como became a popular destination for artists, writers, and aristocrats, who were drawn to the lake’s picturesque beauty and tranquil atmosphere. One of the most famous visitors was the renowned German composer, Franz Liszt, who composed some of his most famous works while staying at a villa on the lake.

The 20th century saw the rise of Lake Como as a popular tourist destination, with the development of luxury hotels and resorts along its shores. Hollywood stars and wealthy elites, such as George Clooney and Richard Branson, have also been drawn to the lake’s charm, making it a playground for the rich and famous.

Aside from its natural beauty and celebrity appeal, Lake Como is also known for its production of silk. The silk industry has been a major source of income for the region since the 15th century, with many silk factories still operating today.

Transportation on Lake Como, Italy

Getting to Lake Como, Italy and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained but narrow and winding, especially around the lake. Be cautious of sharp bends and oncoming traffic on rural roads.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Parking can be challenging in small towns like Bellagio and Varenna, especially during peak seasons. Public ferries are a convenient option for exploring the lake and connecting towns. Renting a car or scooter is ideal for reaching more remote areas.

Local Transportation

Lake Como in Italy offers a variety of transport options to explore its picturesque shores, charming towns, and scenic landscapes. Ferries are one of the most popular ways to travel between lakeside towns like Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, offering beautiful views along the way. For more flexibility, rental cars or scooters are great choices for exploring the area’s mountain roads and hidden gems, although parking can be limited in some towns. Public buses , connect major towns, though they may be slower. Taxis are available for more direct routes, though they can be pricey.

Know Before You Go...® - Lake Como, Italy Travel Tips

Before making their way to Lake Como, Italy , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Lake Como, Italy even more relaxing.

Capital: Como
Population: 84,000 (estimated)
Size: 56 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Time: Timezone: CEST, 2025-07-17 20:33:13
(GMT Offset: 2 hours, DST: Yes)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Lake Como is Italian. However, many locals also speak the regional dialect of Lombard, known as Comasco. English is widely understood and spoken in tourist areas, making it easy for visitors to communicate.
Currency:
  • The official currency of Italy is the Euro (€). You can exchange your currency at banks, post offices, and exchange offices located in major towns and cities. ATMs are also widely available throughout Lake Como.
  • Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Lake Como accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you as smaller establishments may not accept cards.
  • It is always handy to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case of emergencies. You can withdraw Euros from ATMs using your debit or credit card.
  • While traveler's checks are not widely accepted in Lake Como, some banks may still exchange them for Euros. It is best to have them in Euro denomination to avoid additional fees.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before using your credit or debit card in Lake Como. Some banks may charge a fee for international transactions.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • In general, tipping is not expected in Italy as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common practice to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.
  • In restaurants, a service charge of 10-15% may be included in the bill, but it is not mandatory. It is also common to leave a small tip for bartenders and hotel staff, but again, it is not mandatory.
  • Italy has a value-added tax (VAT) of 22% on most goods and services. This tax is usually included in the price, but some tourist areas may not include it, so it is important to check before making a purchase. Tourist tax is also charged in Lake Como, which varies depending on the type of accommodation and season.
  • It is important to note that non-EU residents can claim a tax refund on purchases made in Italy by filling out a tax-free form and presenting it at the airport before departure.
Dress Code: The dress code in Lake Como, Italy is likely to be formal and elegant, reflecting the luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere of the area.
Topography: Lake Como is a picturesque lake located in the Lombardy region of Italy, surrounded by steep mountains and dotted with charming towns and villages.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +39 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the region, including lakeside towns and mountainous areas. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Lake Como, Italy Weddings and Honeymoons

In Lake Como, Italy, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the local Comune (Town Hall) in the chosen municipality along Lake Como.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into Italian and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (Nulla Osta) issued by your country’s embassy in Italy.
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Comune.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Italian by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Italian.

Costs Marriage fees vary by municipality but typically range from €200 to €500 for non-residents. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Lake Como offers enchanting venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including historic villas, lakeside gardens, and charming churches. Popular locations include Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and lakeside spots in Bellagio or Varenna. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.