THE SEASON AHEAD
Lake Como is still basking in its full summer glow, with sunlight glittering on the water and endless opportunities for aperitivos in the warm evening air. But before too long, the hum of summer visitors will begin to fade, leaving behind a slower pace in the Italian Lakes. Autumn is the perfect time to explore Lake Como con calma, taking your time among the lakeside towns and Italian gardens that climb the hills above the water. The botanical gardens at Villa Carlotta, near Tremezzo, are a must if you are in the area. They are full of colour in every season, while the section dedicated to monumental trees feels particularly atmospheric in autumn. The lakefront Melzi Gardens near Bellagio and the resplendent gardens of Villa Balbianello, near Como Town, are also well worth visiting.
While wandering through beautiful villas and gardens is one of my favourite ways to spend time in the Italian Lakes, part of the region’s appeal is that it offers so much variety. You can hike or e-bike along trails with magnificent views over Lake Como and its mountain backdrop. This is particularly enjoyable as the leaves gradually begin to turn. We can also arrange truffle hunting or wild porcini foraging in the countryside around Varenna and Bellagio. Afterwards, you might like to settle in for a cookery class at your villa, using some of this seasonal produce to create delicious regional dishes.
As autumn draws to a close, the season in the Italian Lakes usually winds down too. But the best luxury villas in and around Lake Como are always booked up well in advance, so now is the time to start planning ahead for 2027.
Ainoa – July 2026
WHERE & WHEN
Where should I stay on Lake Como?
One of the best-known places to stay on Lake Como is around Bellagio, a colourful town with a rich history, as well as many fine shops and restaurants. Alternatively you could follow in the footsteps of the Hollywood stars with a stay in Lenno, renowned for its elegant lakefront promenade and plethora of lavish villas.
For something a little quieter, you may wish to consider a villa rental near Blevio on the lake’s southwestern shores. Here you can enjoy lakeside tranquillity and pretty villages but with the attractions of Como and Torno within easy reach.
Those seeking an abundance of natural beauty could consider Griante, on the western shores of the lake. For complete seclusion, we can also offer villas perched in the hills in some of Lake Como’s more remote villages – perfect for gaining a slice of the Italian Lakes all of your own.
When is the best time to rent a villa in Lake Como?
Though people visit the Italian Lakes year-round, we find the best time of year for a villa rental is between May and October. This allows you to experience the Lake Como weather and lakeside life at its very best.
If you have complete flexibility over when you can travel, we recommend visiting in either May and June, or during the autumn months of September and October. May and June offer a fabulous showcase of the natural beauty of the lake, with hillsides blanketed in green and flowers in full bloom. This is also a great time for hiking and e-biking in the surrounding hills. Autumn in Lake Como offers a lovely taste of late summer warmth, but with fewer visitors than the peak season months of July and August. Temperatures average at around 20C (68F), but a calmer pace begins to prevail in the lakeside towns, and the autumn colours are beginning to put on a beautiful display.