Italy
Como
Italy
Como
Updated Apr 08, 2025
Overview
Como, nestled at the southern tip of Lake Como, is a picturesque Italian gem. This city blends natural beauty with rich history, boasting Renaissance architecture and silk-making traditions. Explore narrow cobblestone streets, visit the majestic Duomo, or take a funicular ride for panoramic lake views. For an authentic experience, venture to local markets, enjoy regional cuisine in family-run trattorias, or join locals for an evening passeggiata along the lakefront promenade.
Best time to visit. Visit Como from April to October for pleasant weather and vibrant atmosphere. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for lake activities, while spring and fall provide milder weather perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the colorful landscapes without peak-season crowds.
City stats
Population
84,326
Land area
14 sq. mi.
Currency
Euro
Year founded
196 BCE
Official langauge
Italian
English speaking
Somewhat spoken, esp. in hospitality
State/Province
Lombardy
Timezone
Central European (UTC+1)
Driving side
right
Website
Google Maps link
Quick links
How to get there
Neighborhoods
Getting around
Where to stay
Day trips
Cities within 8 hours
Active pursuits
Leisure activities
Bars, pubs and nightlife
Breakfast and brunch
Lunch and snacks
Dinner restaurants
Laptop friendly places
Where to stay for work trips
Work trip activities
Average weather
Country holidays
Major annual events
Cultural tips
City details
Food & restaurants
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 45°F - 32°F | 42°F - 28°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:55 am | 5:05 pm | 7 days 2.5 in | 2 days 0.6 in | 4 mph |
| February | 48°F - 34°F | 45°F - 30°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:25 am | 5:45 pm | 6 days 2.4 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 4 mph |
| March | 56°F - 40°F | 54°F - 37°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:40 am | 6:25 pm | 8 days 3.3 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| April | 63°F - 47°F | 62°F - 45°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:45 am | 8:05 pm | 10 days 4.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| May | 71°F - 55°F | 71°F - 54°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:55 am | 8:45 pm | 11 days 5.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| June | 78°F - 62°F | 79°F - 62°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:35 am | 9:15 pm | 9 days 4.3 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| July | 83°F - 66°F | 85°F - 66°F | Sunny | 5:50 am | 9:10 pm | 7 days 3.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| August | 82°F - 65°F | 84°F - 65°F | Sunny | 6:25 am | 8:30 pm | 8 days 3.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| September | 74°F - 58°F | 74°F - 57°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:00 am | 7:35 pm | 7 days 3.3 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| October | 64°F - 50°F | 63°F - 48°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:40 am | 6:35 pm | 9 days 4.3 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| November | 53°F - 41°F | 51°F - 38°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:25 am | 4:55 pm | 9 days 4.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 4 mph |
| December | 46°F - 34°F | 43°F - 30°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:55 am | 4:40 pm | 7 days 2.6 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 4 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebration of the new year with fireworks, parades, and family gatherings. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| Epiphany | January 6 | Christian holiday commemorating the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus. | Limited services, but festive atmosphere. | ||
| Easter Sunday | Varies (March/April) | Christian celebration of Jesus' resurrection with church services and family meals. | Many closures, religious observances. | ||
| Easter Monday | Day after Easter Sunday | Extended Easter celebration with outdoor activities and picnics. | Some closures, but lively atmosphere. | ||
| Liberation Day | April 25 | Commemoration of Italy's liberation from Nazi occupation in World War II. | Patriotic events, some business closures. | ||
| Labor Day | May 1 | Celebration of workers' rights with parades and demonstrations. | Many closures, possible transportation issues. | ||
| Republic Day | June 2 | National holiday celebrating the birth of the Italian Republic with parades. | Patriotic events, some business closures. | ||
| Assumption Day | August 15 | Catholic observance of the Virgin Mary's ascension to heaven. | Many closures, religious processions. | ||
| All Saints' Day | November 1 | Catholic holiday honoring saints and deceased loved ones. | Some closures, solemn atmosphere. | ||
| Feast of the Immaculate Conception | December 8 | Catholic celebration of Virgin Mary's conception without original sin. | Some closures, religious observances. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian celebration of Jesus' birth with religious services and family gatherings. | Avoid travel, nearly everything closed. | ||
| St. Stephen's Day | December 26 | Extension of Christmas celebrations honoring the first Christian martyr. | Limited services, festive atmosphere. |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Como Città dei Balocchi | December 1 - January 6 | Annual Christmas market and light festival, featuring illuminations, ice skating, and festive stalls throughout the city center. | Festive atmosphere but crowded. Plan ahead. | ||
| Lake Como International Music Festival | June - October | Series of classical music concerts held in historic villas and churches around Lake Como. | Excellent time to visit. Book concerts early. | ||
| Palio del Baradello | First weekend of September | Medieval festival with costumed parades, flag-throwing competitions, and historical reenactments. | Unique cultural experience. Expect crowds. | ||
| Como Flower Market | Mid-May | Annual floral exhibition in the city center, showcasing local plants and flowers with artistic displays. | Beautiful time to visit. Enjoy spring blooms. | ||
| Lake Como Film Festival | Late July - Early August | Annual film festival featuring outdoor screenings in picturesque locations around Lake Como. | Great for film buffs. Book accommodations early. |
1 | Italians take their food seriously. Don't ask for modifications to dishes or cut pasta with a knife. Respect local dining customs and enjoy meals as they're traditionally served. |
2 | Dress modestly when visiting churches. Cover shoulders and knees, and remove hats. Some popular sites may refuse entry if you're not dressed appropriately. |
3 | Learn basic Italian phrases like 'grazie' (thank you) and 'per favore' (please). Locals appreciate the effort, even if you're not fluent. It shows respect for their culture. |
4 | Embrace the Italian concept of 'la dolce vita' (the sweet life). Slow down, savor your meals, and enjoy leisurely strolls. Don't rush through experiences like locals don't. |
5 | Tipping isn't expected in Italy like in North America. Many restaurants include a service charge. If not, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory. |
6 | Be aware of 'coperto,' a per-person cover charge in restaurants. It's standard practice, not a tourist trap. It usually covers bread and table setting. |
7 | Avoid loud behavior in public, especially on public transport. Italians generally speak softly in public spaces and appreciate when tourists do the same. |
8 | Don't drink cappuccino after 11 AM. Italians consider it a breakfast drink. Opt for an espresso after meals instead to blend in with local customs. |
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