Why you should not miss Lake Como in autumn

If your idea of a great vacation is fewer crowds, breathtaking natural beauty and authentic Italian wining-and-dining, you should definitely visit Lake Como in Autumn. One of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, Lake Como in the month of October transforms into a picture-perfect place to take a break and treat yourself to an exclusive Italian experience.

A small lakeshore town backed by the earthy autumnal shades of Lake Como

The enchanting beauty of the lake and the towns on its shores accentuates during the autumn season when the climate is pleasant and the towns are friendlier and less touristy. Your pocket will also thank you for visiting Lake Como in October as food, accommodation and transport are often available at discounted rates. 

So, here is our fully-rounded guide to your holidays in Lake Como in autumn. Enjoy!

Things to do in Lake Como in October

1.Take a ferry to enjoy the landscape and visit the lake towns

Lake Como often conjures up images of beautiful lake towns and villages which line up its shores. 

Lake Como bathed in a golden sunset during autumn

On your ferry rides or boat trips, enjoy the charming sights presented by pastel-coloured villas, lakeshore boulevards along the shore, opulent gardens and lakeside towns like Varenna and Bellagio. The ferry ride also allows you to enjoy the view of the snow-capped mountains, which form the backdrop of the landscape and the expanse of the lake spread all around you. The environment is much more serene and the number of boats and ferries on the lake significantly reduces by this time. 

Tip: Do not forget to check the timetable of the operating ferry services.

2. Buckle up for some sports and adventure

With the climate being the most appropriate, autumn is the best time for all kinds of outdoor adventure sports: be it water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and waterskiing, or land sports such as hiking and biking.

Kitesurfing or windsurfing to get the adrenaline pumping?

Though there are many routes to escape into adventures, the Menaggio hikes offer some of the most magnificent mountain-top panoramas while our top chapel climbs fulfil your spiritual side! For golfers, there are plenty of world-class golf courses around the area which can be enjoyed in a climate best suited for such outdoor activities. The stunning landscape of the region also adds to the overall golfing experience!

While we are talking about adventures on the lake, how about diving into the supernatural ones and finding out about Lake Como’s legends and horrors? But the question is: Can you even swim in Lake Como in October? 

Since the temperature of the water after the long spell of summer becomes quite moderate–around 22 degrees on most days, there is a good possibility of swimming in the lake. But, you might want to keep an eye out for the Lariosauro, Lake Como’s very own Loch-Ness monster!  

3. Go local with your diet

As the summer crowd decreases, many restaurants begin to close. But this means that you will have the smaller ones open which serve authentic local cuisine in a more friendly and warm environment. Although you usually won’t need to wait for the table and will often find the service quick and personal, we do recommend making a reservation if you are there on the weekend!

Easily available in any of Lake Como’s restaurants: the delicious Polenta with ragù

Do not forget to enjoy some local Italian wine during your vacation. Although the restaurants and bars mostly serve wines produced in the Valtellina region, there are some local cellars too. These natural wine cellars, or Crotti, of Lake Como, are one of the most well-kept treasures of the region. Autumn remains one of the best times to go on a local wine tour with the perfect ambience and climate. Wine aficionados should definitely try wines from the cellars of Tremezzo and Cernobbio.

Tip: If you are still considering options for your lake trip, then you can also count on Lake Maggiore for some good and authentic cuisine in autumn!

4. Go for that memorable walk

Since the crowd has thinned by now, you have a lot of room for a peaceful retreat by the lake. 

The promenades are especially beautiful where you can enjoy a slow romantic walk soaking up the beauty of the landscape or walk the picturesque Greenway route, wandering into the characteristic villages, villas and corners of Lake Como.

5. Enjoy an exclusive experience at Lake Como attractions

Lake Como has plenty of indoor attractions too such as the magnificent Villa del Balbianello, historical churches and important museums which give an insight into the region's history. It is, however, advisable to refer to the timetable of these attractions before planning a visit.

The tree-lined paths of the magnificent Villa del Balbianello dotted with beautiful sculptures

6. Shopping at Lake Como

Though the lake is famous for its unparalleled natural beauty, Lake Como’s silk and its history also deserve a special mention as high-end brands like Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Chanel and more use silk from the region. But if you do not want to go for the pricey tags, then the area offers local boutiques where you can shop for your next velvety silk scarf or tie!

7. Take a day trip to neighbouring destinations

Unlike summers when the traffic is a bit heavier than usual, autumns are perfect for exploring neighbouring destinations on a day trip. Milan is hardly 40 minutes away from Como by train. Visitors also love to visit other Italian lakes like Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano on a day trip from Lake Como. Booking a ticket for a bus and train at short notice, even a few minutes before the departure, is possible. However, renting a car is also an option.

What is the weather like and what to wear in Lake Como in October?

Although the weather is predictable during autumn, with a maximum of around 19 degrees, and adds to the serene atmosphere of the place, it is advisable to carry a sweater and a raincoat.

Browse through our wide range of properties designed for a comfortable stay during the autumn season at Lake Como.