Is Como worth visiting?
Yes, you'll find numerous reasons to visit Como, and it's a lake area that everyone should see. We had an amazing time here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this lake area has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the spectacular food and terrific shopping.
Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in the northern part of Italy. It's dramatically located near the Alps and it has many charming villages and a glamourous and upscale atmosphere. Visitors come for the resort-like environment with water sports, boating, and shopping among the favorite activities in the area.
Como, Italy
5 Reasons to Visit Como
1. Food
The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.
2. Shopping
The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.
3. Hiking
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There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.
4. Nightlife
It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.
5. Beaches
You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.
Is Como worth visiting in the Summer?
Summer is the high season for travel in Como, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This is an extremely popular destination, and in the high season it's busier than usual as this is when most people are able to travel. Expect large crowds of tourists, longer lines, and higher prices for hotels. On the other hand, you'll find that everything is open and you'll have a wide array of activities, things to do, and places to eat.
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 23°C (73°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (82°F).
The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable lake area, especially in the nice weather. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to lounge on the beach, discover the nearby hiking trails, and dance the night away.
Summer Weather in Como
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 23°C (73°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) |
| August | 22°C (72°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
| September | 19°C (67°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) |
Is Como worth visiting in the Autumn?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Como. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during autumn, and temperatures hover around 15°C (58°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery and the hiking.
Autumn Weather in Como
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 15°C (58°F) | 103 mm (4 in) |
| November | 9°C (49°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
| December | 6°C (42°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) |
Is Como worth visiting in the Winter?
The weather in Como can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (41°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The low season for travel in Como is during the winter. This is an extremely touristy destination, so in the low season you'll still see plenty of other travelers when you visit, but less than other times of the year. Good deals are to be found on hotels and tours because it's not the best time of year to visit.
This is a great time of year to enjoy a meal at a restaurant and take advantage of the local nightlife.
Winter Weather in Como
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 5°C (41°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
| February | 6°C (44°F) | 60 mm (2.3 in) |
| March | 10°C (49°F) | 85 mm (3.4 in) |
Is Como worth visiting in the Spring?
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Como. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F).
One of the main reasons to come this time of year is because of the gorgeous scenery. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, take in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy an evening out.
Spring Weather in Como
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 13°C (55°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
| May | 17°C (62°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
| June | 20°C (69°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Como
Museums: Como isn't a place that's filled with a huge number of sights and attractions. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.
Lots of Tourists
Como sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Como might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Como here or see if Como is expensive here.
Related
What is Como most famous for?
Como is most famous for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. People visit this impressive lake area for its great food and shopping. Also, it's known for hiking. Many people love the nightlife and beaches, too. It is often described as scenic, trendy, fun, and vibrant.
What is the most famous sight in Como?
The most popular sight in Como is the lakeside setting. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Como on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the lakeside setting and other attractions here.
How touristy is Como? Is it a popular lake area to visit?
Como is a very touristy lake area that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Vintage Vespa tour on Lake Como: $222
- Private Boat Tour on Lake Como: $266
- Mountain Bike tour in Spina Verde natural park: $122
- Como, Italy & Lugano, Switzerland Exclusive Full-Day Tour (1h from Milan, 10:30): $211
- Como City & Bellagio Exclusive Full-Day Tour (1h from Milan, start at 10:30 am): $211
- Road Bike tour in Lake Como & Bellagio: $222
- 4-hour E-bike Tour of the Piccolo Mondo Antico in Lake Como: $144
- Private 2-Hour Tour of the Medieval Castle over Lake Como: $111
How long should I spend in Como?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Como is two to four days. Since Como has a variety of activities such as dining and shopping, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Como?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Como?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Como?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.