Lake Como packing list for families
Lake Como trips are built around boats, gardens, steep little towns, and long dinners on the water. Packing for breezy ferry rides and stepped lanes makes the days with kids much smoother.
Photo by Nirmal Rajendharkumar on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Lake Como
- The public ferries are the easiest way to see the lake with kids, and they treat the boat ride as the main event. Pick one or two towns a day so nobody is rushed.
- Bellagio and Varenna are full of steep stepped lanes, so a carrier works better than a stroller in town. Bring shoes with good grip for everyone.
- The lake is cool to swim in until July, and many hotels close from about November to March. Book a hotel with a pool if your kids are swimmers, and pack something nice for lakeside dinners.
Seeing more of Italy on this trip? Start with the Italy packing list.
Lake Como
Every item links to what Kristina would buy. Tap Add to bag on what you're missing, then check out on Amazon in one tap.
Carry-on8
Clothing6
Shoes2
Beach & pool2
Little ones5
Little things13
Health & toiletries3
Documents & tech5
Riviera blues
White, Riviera blue, cream, lemon
For photos
- Blue, white, and one lemon accent
- Early morning, before the crowds
Tap any piece to shop the look.
Lake Como weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 45°F 7°C | Cold and quiet, many hotels closed | Low season, with many hotels and some ferries reduced |
| February | 49°F 9°C | Cold and quiet, many hotels closed | Low season, with many hotels and some ferries reduced |
| March | 57°F 14°C | Cool spring, gardens coming into bloom | Low season, with many hotels and some ferries reduced |
| April | 63°F 17°C | Cool spring, gardens coming into bloom | Azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom at Villa Carlotta |
| May | 71°F 22°C | Cool spring, gardens coming into bloom | Azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom at Villa Carlotta |
| June | 79°F 26°C | Warm and humid, with afternoon storms possible | San Giovanni fireworks by Isola Comacina in late June |
| July | 84°F 29°C | Warm and humid, with afternoon storms possible | Warmest water for swimming and boat days |
| August | 82°F 28°C | Warm and humid, with afternoon storms possible | Warmest water for swimming and boat days |
| September | 75°F 24°C | Mild September, cool and rainy Oct–Nov | |
| October | 64°F 18°C | Mild September, cool and rainy Oct–Nov | Fall color on the hills and quieter towns |
| November | 53°F 12°C | Mild September, cool and rainy Oct–Nov | Low season, with many hotels and some ferries reduced |
| December | 46°F 8°C | Cold and quiet, many hotels closed | Low season, with many hotels and some ferries reduced |
Lake Como with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Lake Como with kids?
The best time is May–Sep. Mild September, cool and rainy Oct–Nov
What's the weather like in Lake Como?
Typical daytime highs range from about 45°F (7°C) in January to about 84°F (29°C) in July. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Lake Como?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Lake Como?
Type L, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Lake Como with kids?
The public ferries are the easiest way to see the lake with kids, and they treat the boat ride as the main event. Pick one or two towns a day so nobody is rushed.
New destination lists, seasonal tips, and the gear we're loving.
I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.