When to visit the Italian Lakes

For the longest, brightest and sunniest days, Lake Maggiore’s prime holiday season is between late April and early October. The bloom of spring brings with it plenty of blossom, making it the best time to see the destination’s renowned flora and fauna, whilst a visit during the midsummer months is best for those wanting to swim in the crystalline waters of the idyllic lake.   

Summers on the shores of Italy’s largest lake are captivating. With the lake’s soft breeze cooling the hot streets of pretty harbour towns, carrying with it a light citrus fragrance from the surrounding lemon groves, its sub-Mediterranean climate can be enjoyed without activities being stifled by sweltering heat. Whether swimming, sunbathing or general exploration is on the agenda, late spring to early summer is the best time to make a trip.

Lake Como is most alluring from late April right through the summer months, when the deep lake provides relief on hot, hazy days. But, this destination gets particularly busy during the month of August as resident's of neighbouring Milan flock here to lounge in the lake-side sun, so to avoid the crowds and still revel in the balmy weather, visit in May, June or September. And, it's worth noting that, even in the height of summer, extra layers are always a good idea as due to its alpine location temperatures can cool quite dramatically when the sun goes down.