Weather lowdown
Located in the Lombardy region in northern Italy, Lake Como is Italy's third largest lake at 146 square km. Views straight off a postcard can be found throughout the many little towns and villages that dot the Lake Como shoreline, with stunning glacial mountains and lake backdrops at every angle. The area boasts a year-round Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and pleasant winters, which is another major selling point for the destination.
November marks the end of autumn in Lake Como and it is when the temperatures begin to drop. Average daily temperatures are around 8°C with high temperatures only reaching 11°C. Evening can be rather chilly in November as night time temperatures can sometimes dip to as low as freezing for the first time since the start of the year. Average low temperatures are around 5°C, so visitors should pack accordingly, with some warmer layers and a jacket.
Lake Como also sees a decrease in sunshine hours, with some of the lowest amounts of sunshine of the year. Don't let this put you off visiting Lake Como in November though, as there is still 6 bright and sunny hours each day much more than other parts of Europe at this time of year.
Unlike many areas of Europe, the rainy season is finally coming to an end in November. Rainfall is much lower than over the summer months and is general, isn't something travellers need to be concerned about. There is about 99mm of precipitation throughout November and an average of 13 wet days out of 30.
November is a great time to visit the Lake Como region if you're looking for a winter getaway and don't mind lower temperatures. The peak summer crowds have died down, allowing traveller to enjoy a more peaceful and relaxing holiday in beautiful surroundings.
Where to stay
Maria's House
For those wanting to visit Varenna and take in the town, the one-bedroomed apartment, Maria's House, has everything guests could ask for, including a double bedroom, a bathroom and a kitchen/living room, all of which are beautifully decorated and well furnished. Situated in a 16th century building in the centre of Varenna, the apartment looks out over the lake. November rates are great value for money here.
Avenue Hotel
Avenue Hotel offers a cool and contemporary stay right in the heart of old town Como and just 550 yards from the lake. Housed in a historic building, the hotel has a colourful interior with creative and modern décor that differentiates it from many other hotels in the area. Guests can enjoy free buffet breakfast served every morning and the hotel also has a good à la carte restaurant called Il Pinzimonio.
Eating and drinking
Al Veluu
There's no doubt that food and drink is at the heart of Italian life and visitors to Lake Como can find some of the country's best cuisine in the region. Al Veluu offers dinner with spectacular views, located on top of a hill above the town of Tremezzo. The restaurant is known for having some of the best food on the lake, with homemade Italian dishes, many of them prepared at the table for the freshest flavour possible.
Il Cavatappi
Another great option, especially for vegetarians, is Il Cavatappi. Located in the town of Varenna, this restaurant serves guests refined Italian cuisine with Lake Como specialties and some great meat-free options. The charming little establishment is small inside, so make sure to book a table.
Pub il Tiglio
After dinner, enjoy a drink at Pub il Tiglio in Bellagio. This bar specialised in beer, with a huge variety of options, from local craft beers to international options. Off the beaten tourist track, this charming restaurant is a great place to spend an evening in Lake Como.
Things to do
Villa Monastero
A nice way for travellers to join in the local celebrations is to visit Villa Monastero in Varenna. The gardens remain open to the public even during November, unlike many other public gardens in Lake Como. As well as a huge array of flowers and evergreens, yuccas and African palm trees, the beautiful gardens also house many temples, fountains and statues.
Archaeological Museum Paolo Giovio
As the weather cools, November is a great time to visit some of Lake Como's museums. Some of the best are located in the city of Como, such as the Archaeological Museum Paolo Giovio. History buffs will be fascinated by the collection of artefacts here, with items from the bronze and iron period as well as objects from the Roman and Etruscan times. Some of the most popular exhibitions include the precious gem collection and the display of ancient Egyptian artefacts.
