Weather lowdown
Lake Como is Italy's third largest lake and is located in the north of the country. The quiet towns surrounding Lake Como such as Bellagio and Varenna provide a peaceful getaway and are popular with holidaymakers from all over the world. Easily accessible from Milan, this destination is also great for day trips to other Italian destinations.
Lake Como draws in visitors thanks to its stunning glacial landscape as well as the mild Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and sunny while winters are mild. August in Lake Como is still the peak of summer with temperatures remaining high. Average daily temperatures are around 22°C with highs reaching a sizzling 26°C on occasions. Although cool breezes from the lake won't make the heat feel stifling, travellers are recommended to pack plenty of sun cream and stay out of the sun during peak hours of 12-3pm to stay safe. Even nights in Lake Como are warm in August; temperatures hardly ever drop below 18°C during the month, making it a perfect time for visiting the many outdoor patios and bars that can be found around the region.
As well as high temperatures, visitors to Lake Como in August can enjoy plenty of sunshine. The month is basked in 11 hours of sun every day, providing great conditions for outdoor activities.
The Lake Como area is known for being quite wet during the summer months, so travellers should be prepared for the possibility of a few rainy days. August sees around the same amount of rainfall as July, with 97mm of precipitation over the month. Rain usually falls on an average of 13 days, so some days will be dry and pleasant.
August is peak summer season in Lake Como and might get a little crowded, but the fabulous sunshine and high temperatures make it a great time to plan a vacation to this beautiful region.
Where to stay
Hotel Mirabeau
Travellers looking for great value accommodation could not choose better than the Hotel Mirabeau in Cirvenna. Surrounded by wonderful views of Lake Como and the Grigna mountains, the hotel sits in a wonderful location just a short 10 minute journey to the nearby tourist town of Bellagio. Hotel Mirabeau offers everything tourists could need including its own private outdoor swimming pool, a children's playground and a restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is perfect for couples looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Lake Como. The palatial five star hotel resort is located in the town of Tremezzo adjacent to the 17th-century Villa Carlotta gardens. Bellagio can be seen directly across the lake from the hotel. The complex offers guests a fine dining restaurant and spa facilities as well a private beach area and a large pool that sits on the lake itself.
Eating and drinking
Antica Trattoria del Risorgimento
Antica Trattoria del Risorgimento is located in Como and offers guests a gourmet dining experience with food that looks as good as it tastes. The prix-fixe menu features classic Italian flavours with a contemporary twist as well as a great selection of wines. The restaurant has a cosy and romantic atmosphere, set inside a beautiful old stone building with a traditional Italian feel.
Pizeeria Lugano Ristorante
Every visitor to Italy is one the hunt for that perfect pizza. One of the best can be found at Pizzeria Lugano Ristorante in the town of Menaggio where pizzas are cooked the traditional way, in an open fire, for that signature crispy crust. This popular joint gets busy but is worth the wait.
Cantina Folle
Wine lovers should head to Cantina Follie in Tremezzo. This charming little wine bar is located on a quiet street and is a gem to be discovered, with a huge range of local wines which can be sampled by the glass. To accompany, the restaurant also serves some traditional Italian meats and cheeses from the region.
Things to do
Jungle Raider Park
For families a perfect way of spending the day is at Jungle Raider Park. Part theme park, part adventure playground, part woodland forest, this attraction is built among the trees of Civenna and offers something for everyone. Visitors can navigate their way through the air on logs and wooden walkways, across bridges and ropes from one tree to the next. Jungle Raider Park is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have fun at the same time.
City of Como
If you're staying in one of Lake Como's small towns and villages, make sure to plan a visit to the city of Como. This bustling and historic city offers a contrast to the peaceful ambience of the lake and has plenty to see and do including museums, shops and some of the best Italian food in the region. Como Cathedral is one of the most popular attractions and should be added to your must-visit list. Often described as the last Gothic cathedral built in Italy, it is topped with a large green domed roof..
