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Less crowded and with mild temperatures, Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are the ideal times to experience the Italian lakes.
July and August, the warmest months, offer the best weather for swimming and relaxing by the water, but are also the busiest time for visitors. In September, the summer heat subsides and the lakeshore is less crowded. From November to March, the temperature drops considerably and many hotels close for the winter.
Visiting the Italian lakes in November – February
In winter, temperatures are generally close to zero and, with the exception of Christmas and New Year, most restaurants and tourist establishments will be closed.
Visiting the Italian lakes in March - April
With the reopening of the hotels at Easter, the number of visitors increases. Nature lovers will be able to gaze upon the gardens that border the lakes as they begin to bloom. Note that some days are still a bit wet.
Events & Festivals
Liberation Day commemorates the Allied defeat of the Nazis and the end of Mussolini's rule (bank holidays on 25 April).
Visiting the Italian lakes in May – June
May to June is ideal for a stay in the Lake District. The number of visitors is lower, before the peak of the summer season. Temperatures will rise without becoming stifling, allowing for walking and hiking trips without the heat. The rhododendrons and azaleas are beginning to bloom, providing a sumptuous spectacle.
Events & Festivals
Lake Como holds its annual festival between June and September, featuring numerous musical performances and fireworks around the lake.
Republic Day (2 June) is a bank holiday celebrating the founding of the modern Italian Republic.
Visiting the Italian lakes in July and August
The number of visitors increases during the summer months, when many Italians leave the cities for cooler climes. This is the high season and you will find that everything is open and the weather is ideal for enjoying the outdoors.
Events & Festivals
Lake Como holds its annual festival between June and September, with many musical performances and fireworks around the lake.
Festival of Stresa (July to September): a music and art festival held in several locations around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.
Fireworks Festival (July to August): sound and light show around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.
Visiting the Italian lakes in September – October
Temperatures in September and October are generally mild. With fewer visitors, you can enjoy the autumn sunshine and see the area at your own pace. Wet days are not uncommon but are usually offset by more pleasant conditions.
Events & Festivals
Poetry on the Lake (Autumn): Poets from all over the world come together at this British poetry festival on Lake Orta.
Airports: Most flights to the Italian lakes land in Milan, where there are two airports: Malpensa, 50 kilometres from the city centre, or Linate, only 7 kilometres away. Bergamo and Verona also receive flights from other countries.
By train: You can reach the Italian lakes via a scenic train ride. Once there, all the key towns in the region are easily accessible via the rail network.
By boat: Ferries cover the main lakes in the region: Maggiore, Como and Garda. Unlimited day tickets are a popular option.
By bus: Buses allow those without their own transport to access some (but not all) of the smaller towns beyond the lakeshore.
By bike: Italians in these regions are keen on motorbikes and bicycles, so you'll be in good company if you want to explore on two wheels! Cycling is also a great way to get off the beaten track.
By car: The car is the most convenient way to visit the Italian Lake District. Roads can be busy but are generally in good condition, and motorways run the length of the region.
