Lake Como, Italy Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Lake Como is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Lombardy region of Italy. Surrounded by the stunning Italian Alps, this picturesque lake is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its crystal clear waters, quaint lakeside towns, and luxurious villas make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and scenic escape. With a rich history dating back to ancient Roman times, Lake Como offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re interested in water sports, hiking, or simply relaxing in the serene surroundings, Lake Como has something for everyone.

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

Overview

Lake Como is one of the most famous Italian Lakes destinations. The lake is surrounded by hills and mountains, scattered with beautiful villas and resort villages.

Popular since the days of the Roman Empire, Lake Como is a top romantic travel destination and a great spot for photography due to it picturesque landscape views. There are good hiking trails, boat trips and water activities popular for those of all ages. Or simply sit back, relax and admire the blue waters from one of the luxurious villas located in the wooded lakeside slopes above.

The best time to visit Lake Como is during the summer when the water is warm, and the temperatures reach their peak.

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

  • 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

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: 220/240
Time: zone:+1 (GMT/UTC )
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: Italy's telephone country code is +39 and the area code for the entire country is 00.

Lake Como, Italy Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Lake Como, Italy villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! In Italy, the process of getting married requires a few essential documents and steps. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local town hall (Comune) in the area where one of the parties resides. Required documents include:

Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.

  • Birth certificates for both parties, with an official translation into Italian if not in the language.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, the final divorce decree; if widowed, the death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence: One of the parties must have been residing in Italy for at least 2-3 days before applying.
  • Certificate of no impediment (Certificato di capacita matrimoniale), obtained from your home country, confirming that you are legally able to marry.

The marriage license typically costs around €30 to €50, though the fee can vary depending on the region. For weddings conducted outside the town hall (e.g., at a venue or other location), officiant fees can range from €200 to €500. It is advisable to apply for the marriage license at least 2-3 weeks before the wedding date to allow time for processing.

See our favorite Italy villas for weddings.