Weather Forecast (7 days)
Check the weather forecast for the main towns on Lake Como:
Climate of Lake Como
Wondering when is the best time to visit Lake Como? Let me help you:
LAKE COMO’S CLIMATE
Average temperatures and seasonal characteristics
Lake Como’s climate is quite pleasant and is characterized by Mediterranean conditions that allow the growing of sub-tropical plants throughout the year.
In fact, although Lombardy is characterized by a subcontinental climate, Lake Como‘s enormous body of water is able to mitigate the climatic conditions of the surrounding areas.
- Ferries and buses to their fullest potential: between May and September
- Opening of villas and gardens: between April and October
- Best months for swimming and water sports: between June and September
- Best months for trekking: April, June, September, October
- Best months for skiing: between December and February
- Months of great tourist chaos: July and August
- Cheapest months: between November and March (excluding the Christmas period)
Lake Como in Spring
This is considered one of the best times to visit Lake Como. The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and lush vegetation.
Temperatures are generally comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the lakeside villages, gardens, and hiking trails.
Indeed, Lake Como’s climate in spring has an average temperature of 10°C (50°F) in March, and reaches 17°C (62°F) in May with highs of 21°C (70°F). During springtime, towns and villages start getting populated by tourists.
Rain is not uncommon in this time of the year, and one of the wettest months is May (with twelve days of rain on average – April is a little better, averaging 10 days).
The pleasant weather conditions and a lower number of tourists (compared to the summer months) are reasons why many prefer visiting Lake Como in spring. Just… don’t forget your umbrella!
Lake Como in Summer
Summer is definitely the most popular time for tourists from around the world to visit Lake Como. Weather in June is known for highs that reach 25°C (77°F) and keep rising until July and August, when temperatures get to 27°C (80°F), sometimes even more.
Don’t worry about these temperature peaks. During summer months, the lake provides cooling to the surrounding territory. But if you really can’t stand the heat, just choose one of Lake Como’s beaches and refresh yourself with a swim in the lake (where possible).
The waters of Lake Como exceed 20°C in July, August, and September, making those months the prime time for swimming. Summer showers are not uncommon, so you should be prepared for the chance of getting wet.
Although rainfall is less frequent than in spring, there can be some unexpected showers.
Lake Como in Autumn
Lake Como gets extremely appealing in autumn. The weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds start to thin out. The autumn foliage adds a touch of color to the landscape and you can see the first peaks of the highest mountains capped with snow.
It’s a good time for hiking and exploring without the summer hustle and bustle.
Temperatures drop in September reaching the average temperature of 19°C (66°F), and cool down to 9°C (48°C) in November. You should expect some exceptional drops in temperature with lows going down to 5°C (41°F), so I recommend that you bring some warm clothes.
The fall months, however, are characterized by slightly less rainfall than the spring and summer months (an average of 8 days per month).
Lake Como in Winter
While the weather is cooler, Lake Como has a certain charm in the winter months. The surrounding mountains may be snow-capped, and you can experience a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.
Winter temperatures in Lake Como drop dramatically, as do the hours of daylight. January is the coldest month, with an average low temperature of 3°C (37°F) and maximum of only 8°C (46°F), but it is not uncommon to drop below zero during the coldest nights.
Snowfall is erratic and primarily affects the higher elevations. Winter can be a great time to visit Lake Como, as you can make the most of the off-season deals and enjoy the period of greatest peace.
If you happen to visit Lake Como in winter, and have the chance to see it covered with snow, you can take the opportunity to go skiing at the ski resorts at Piani di Bobbio, Monte Sighignola or Valchiavenna.