Weather lowdown
Lake Como, or Lago di Como as it is known in Italy is one of the country's largest lakes and is located in the beautiful Lombardy region. The upscale area is known for its dramatically stunning scenery backed by the Grigna mountains, beautiful architecture and of course, amazing lake views. The area's mild Mediterranean weather is another reason to love Lake Como. Even George Clooney holidays here.
Warm sunny days are just one of the reasons for Lake Como's popularity in the summer months. June is a wonderful month for visiting the towns surrounding Lake Como such as Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna. Average daily temperatures are around 20°C and high temperatures can hit a balmy 24°C on some days. On an evening and overnight, temperatures do drop, but in the summer months it shouldn't get too cold, with average low temperatures of around 15°C.
The humidity in Lake Como is around 66% in June. This is quite a bit lower than other popular holiday destinations in Europe, so June is the perfect time for exploring. There's plenty of sunshine too, with June being one of the sunniest months of the year. Visitors can enjoy long, sunny days with 11 hours of sun a day ideal if you're hoping to return home with a tan.
Unfortunately, along with the sunshine and high temperatures comes an increase in rain in June. Lake Como does see its fair share of wet weather in the spring and early summer months, peaking in June with an average rainfall of 134mm. This falls on an average of 14 days throughout the month, so around half of the days will experience some wet weather. Visitors are advised to pack an umbrella or a raincoat if they're visiting Lake Como this month. However, if you don't mind a chance of rain, June is a great time to see Lake Como at its most beautiful. The sun is shining and the foliage is in full bloom at this time of year. Take a look at the weather forecast for Lake Como here.
Where to stay
Hotel Engadina
Como is the main hub in Lake Como and a great place to stay if you're looking for a lively atmosphere. Whether travellers choose to lodge close to the lake's shore, or stay up in nearby Brunate, there's a huge choice of accommodation in the Como area. The Hotel Engadina offers budget-friendly for rooms near to the lake and just a 10 minutes' walk from the historic centre of Como. Guests can enjoy stylish and contemporary accommodation here, with recently refurbished rooms that feature complimentary Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Locanda Milano
Another great value option, Locanda Milano is located nearby in Brunate and provides comfortable lodgings overlooking the tiny towns below. Just 3 miles from Como, it boasts more peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of Lake Como. This family run hotel makes guests feel at home, with tastefully decorated rooms and a buffet breakfast every morning.
Eating and drinking
Gelateria Lariana
With gelato shops being dotted throughout almost all Lake Como's towns and villages, an ice cream is a great way to cool down in the summer. One of the best ice cream parlours is Gelateria Lariana located on the lakefront in Como. Here, guests can sample some delicious Italian gelato with an array of tasty homemade flavours to choose from.
Sanremo Bar
The Sanremo Bar in Bellagio is a hot spot for lunch and dinner in the town of Bellagio. Its lakefront location with views over the water is hard to beat but the food does a good job, with a selection of classic Italian dishes and appetisers as well as a great choice of wine. The outdoor seating area is ideal for people watching and the restaurant even entertains visitors on an evening, with live music in the summer months.
Il Ristorante di Paolo
For a fine dining experience, head to Il Ristorante di Paolo, one of the best rated restaurants in Menaggio. The menu here features homemade and traditional Italian dishes with a contemporary twist such as the pasta with fresh truffles. Located just steps from the lakefront in the main square, the restaurant has a beautiful terrace that overlooks the water, offering amazing views with dinner. This popular eatery gets very busy, especially in the summer months, so book a table to avoid disappointment.
Things to do
Funicular Railway
Those travelling to or staying in Como should experience the city's traditional Funicular Railway. Not only is this a fun and alternative mode of transportation, it also provides easy access to the nearby town of Brunate where the views are amazing. At the top, there are many picturesque resting spots where travellers can enjoy a picnic and plenty of viewing platforms to gaze down over Como. June boasts less than one day of fog, so visitors may even be able to see all the way to Milan.
Sagra de San Giovanni
If you're visiting the Lake Como region in June, you may be lucky enough to witness one of the region's oldest festivals. The Sagra de San Giovanni is usually held on the last weekend of June and celebrates the heritage of the Como region. Festivities include folk art, traditional music, dancing and plenty of food and drink. The main event occurs after sunset and features hundreds of floating lamps which are sent out onto the lake alongside a spectacular fireworks display. This is a sight not to be missed and one you'll definitely remember.
