Italian Lakes, Italy Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Italy, located in Southern Europe, is a country known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. With a population of over 60 million people, it is home to bustling cities such as Rome, Milan, and Venice, as well as charming towns and villages. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the stunning Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore. The country also boasts a vibrant culture, with art, fashion, and music playing significant roles in daily life. Whether you are interested in history, food, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, Italy has something for everyone to enjoy.

Why Italian Lakes, Italy?

  • The Italian Lakes are a popular tourist destination for their unique combination of mountains, lakes, and historical towns.
  • The Italian Lakes are home to many famous villas and gardens, including the Gardens of Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello.
  • The Italian Lakes have been a popular destination for centuries, particularly for the wealthy and influential.
  • The Italian Lakes are known for their mild climate and beautiful scenery, making them a great destination for outdoor activities.
  • The Italian Lakes are home to numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife that make for excellent sightseeing opportunities.

Italian Lakes, Italy Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
40° F
28° F
February
45° F
30° F
March
53° F
36° F
April
60° F
43° F
May
68° F
50° F
June
75° F
56° F
July
80° F
61° F
August
70° F
60° F
September
73° F
55° F
October
62° F
46° F
November
50° F
37° F
December
42° F
29° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.4 inches
February
2.4 inches
March
3.1 inches
April
3.8 inches
May
4.9 inches
June
4.4 inches
July
3.6 inches
August
4.6 inches
September
3.8 inches
October
4.3 inches
November
4.2 inches
December
1.4 inches

Overview

Vast alpine vistas, glossy waters and bougainvillea-veiled towns - Lake Como boasts an allure that has endured since wealthy Romans first visited these restorative shores. Be beguiled by the most opulent of villas, century-old pastel pillars sinking into the shores of the lake itself. Take in charmingly traditional towns, pristine villages and secluded spots from which to admire the views. Dine among the fashionable crowd in Bellagio at one of the many lakefront restaurants, enjoying an aperitivo as boats trace languidly across the waters. From Michelin-starred restaurant Al Sorriso to traditional trattoria’s serving home-made pappardelle, you’ll find superlative regional produce that makes for many a gastronomic delight.

Soak up the sweeping lake views your shorefront terrace or take a refreshing dip in the private pool whilst gazing out over the cloud-laced mountaintops. Come the evening, select a bottle of wine from your cellar filled with Piemonte’s finest, strolling through the manicured grounds down private stone steps directly to the lake where your private speed boat awaits. Savour the world famous wine as the sun sinks behind the Rhaetian Alps - relaxed, refined and truly opulent, this is the epitome of Italian indulgence.

History

Italy is a country steeped in rich history, culture, and tradition. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Roman civilization, which flourished from 753 BC to 476 AD. The Roman Empire was a powerful force in the Mediterranean region, and its influence can still be seen in modern-day Italy.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Italy experienced a period of turmoil and invasions from various barbarian tribes, including the Goths, Vandals, and Lombards. However, in the 11th century, the Italian city-states began to emerge as powerful centers of trade and commerce. These city-states, such as Venice, Florence, and Genoa, became important hubs for the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture.

During the Renaissance period in the 14th century, Italy experienced a rebirth of art, literature, and science. Renowned artists and thinkers such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo emerged during this time, making significant contributions to the world of art and science.

In the 19th century, Italy went through a period of political unification, known as the Risorgimento. This movement aimed to unite the various Italian states and establish a unified, independent nation. In 1861, the Kingdom of Italy was officially established, with Rome as its capital.

However, Italy’s history in the 20th century was marked by political and social upheaval. The country was divided between supporters of the monarchy and those in favor of a republic. In the midst of this political turmoil, Benito Mussolini rose to power in 1922 and established a fascist dictatorship. Under Mussolini’s rule, Italy aligned itself with Nazi Germany during World War II.

After the war, Italy underwent a period of reconstruction and economic growth, known as the “Italian Economic Miracle.” This period saw a significant increase in industrialization and urbanization, as well as the rise of consumer culture. In the 1960s and 1970s, Italy experienced a cultural revolution, with the emergence of new artistic and literary movements.

Today, Italy remains a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and historical landmarks. The country is also a major economic power and a member of the European Union.

Italy’s history is a complex and fascinating one, shaped by its ancient roots, medieval city-states, Renaissance period, and modern-day developments. Despite its tumultuous past, Italy continues to thrive as a nation with a rich cultural heritage and a prominent place on the world stage.

Transportation on Italian Lakes, Italy

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

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road in Italy.
  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 12 or less than 150 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, 110 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on motorways (some sections may have lower limits).
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • In some cases, vehicles coming from the right have priority unless road signs indicate otherwise. Always be cautious at intersections.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Local Transportation

Local transportation in Italy is a well-developed and efficient system that allows travelers to easily navigate through the country. The most common forms of transportation include trains, buses, and metro systems. Trains are considered the most popular and reliable mode of transportation, with a comprehensive network that connects major cities and smaller towns. Buses are also widely used, particularly for shorter distances and to access more remote areas. Many cities in Italy also have a metro system, which provides easy and quick access to various parts of the city. Other options for local transportation include taxis, rental cars, and bicycles.

Know Before You Go...® - Italian Lakes, Italy Travel Tips

Before making their way to Italian Lakes, 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 Italian Lakes, Italy even more relaxing.

Capital: 2021Milan
Population: 2021Varies
Size: 2019Varies
Electric Current: 220/240
Time: zone:+1 (GMT/UTC )
Official Language: The official language spoken in Italian Lakes is Italian. However, there are also secondary languages spoken, including Lombard, Piedmontese, and Ligurian. These regional languages have a strong influence on the local culture and are still used in daily c
Currency: The Italian Lakes region offers a variety of currency and payment options for tourists visiting the area. The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR), and it is widely accepted in the Italian Lakes region. However, it is always advisable to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller towns or markets. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the Italian Lakes, especially in larger cities such as Milan and Como. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are the most commonly accepted cards. However, it is always a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being blocked due to suspicious activity. ATMs can be found throughout the Italian Lakes, making it easy to withdraw cash in the local currency. It is advisable to use ATMs located in banks or other secure locations to avoid any potential scams. Traveller's checks are not commonly used in the Italian Lakes and may not be accepted at all establishments. It is re
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in the Italian Lakes region are an important aspect of the overall cost of travel and should be understood before embarking on a trip. Tipping, or "mancia" in Italian, is not a common practice in Italy and is not expected by service industry workers. However, it is appreciated for exceptional service and can be given at the customer's discretion. A general rule of thumb is to round up the bill to the nearest Euro or leave a small percentage of the total bill (5-10%) as a tip. When it comes to taxes, Italy has a Value Added Tax (VAT) system that is added to most goods and services. The current VAT rate in the Italian Lakes region is 22%, which is included in the listed price of items. Visitors from outside the EU may be eligible for a VAT refund on certain purchases, so it is important to keep receipts and inquire about this at the point of purchase. In addition to VAT, there may also be a tourist tax in certain areas of the Italian Lakes. This tax, known as "tas
Dress Code: The dress code in Italian Lakes is typically formal and elegant, with a preference for sophisticated and stylish attire.
Topography: The Italian Lakes feature a diverse and stunning landscape of glacially carved mountains, serene blue waters, and charming lakeside towns.
Telephone: Italy +39 (country code) and 02 (area code)

Italian Lakes, Italy Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Italian Lakes, Italy villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite Italy villas for weddings.