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Lake Como in December In Italy is a peaceful winter retreat with the summer tourists to be found during this time. In December you can truly appreciate the beauty of this famous Italian spot. It becomes even more stunning with the misty rivers and the snow-capped Alps. The villages surrounding the river become more gorgeous with their festive decorations as well. Even though the temperatures are cooler at this time of the year, the Christmas markets add to the magic of this lake.
Quick Details About Lake Como In December
Location: Lombardy region, Northern Italy
Altitude: 199 meters above sea level
Type: Glacial lake
Primary Inflow: Adda River
Surface Area: 146 km²
Location
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Como is located in the northern part of Italy’s Lombardy region roughly 50 kilometers away from Milan. Lake Como is 146 square kilometers in area and covers a Y-shaped region surrounded by small mountains. The lake extends towards flatlands in the south and the Alps in the north, where many small towns are developed around the lake. The towns surrounding the lake can be accessed by roads and ferries. The lake can be reached by train or car from Milan within one hour and lies close to Switzerland.
How To Reach
Photo: Arne Müseler / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport is Milan Malpensa Airport about 50 kilometers from the lake. From this point, either a taxi or a train can be taken.
By Rail: Trains run from Milan to Como San Giovanni Station, taking about 40 minutes.
By Road: You can drive from Milan to Lake Como in about an hour. Buses and private transfers are also available.
Things To Do At Lake Como In December
Enjoy the cold with distinct winter activities around this lake and admire the stunning beauty of this famous destination:
1. Embark On Winter Hiking Along Lake Views
Photo: Ramessos / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Como in December opens wonderful hiking possibilities, as a portion of the summer visitors take a break from tourism. Winter hikes on the Greenway del Lago di Como, a 10 km long path connecting the lakeside villages, make for a breathtaking and quiet walk. Menaggio and Bellagio have mountains that offer marvelous view trails to more moderate walkers. The lake and The Alps are tantalizing when viewed from these snow-covered trails. Early mornings, with gray skies and water, set up ethereal landscapes that are perfect for photography.
2. Relax With A Thermal Spa
Photo: Gala Briela / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Winter is the best time to go to the thermal spas at Lake Como. These give warmth and relaxation during the chilly days of December. While looking over the intense snowfall, guests at Terme di Como can enjoy their heated pools with a view of the lake. Many of the spa facilities have historic Liberty-style buildings that blend cultural charm with wellness. Locally infused olive oils and botanical treatments help refresh the body during the brutal winters, making this a truly relaxing retreat.
Places To Visit Near Lake Como In December
Experience these must-visit destinations around this lake to capture the winter magic of this Italian gem:
1. Bellagio
Photo: Jean-Christophe BENOIST / Wikimedia Commons
In December, the “Pearl of Lake Como”, Bellagio becomes even more inviting with its narrow, cobbled streets and classic buildings. The local crafts and seasonal delicacies offered at the Christmas market located in Piazza della Chiesa also proves to be a treat. Unlike other times of the year, winter is much more peaceful in this often crowded city. It is especially magical at sunset when the lakeside promenade offers misty views of the mountains and water. Lakefront promenades offer misty views of the water and mountains, especially magical at sunset.
Distance From Como City: 30 km
Timings: Town accessible all day (shops 9 AM – 7 PM)
2. Villa Carlotta
Photo: Henry Kellner / Wikimedia Commons
This historic villa in Tremezzo takes on a different character in December. Despite the famous gardens being dormant, the interior of the villa with its breathtaking art collection is still available to the public. The decorated neoclassical rooms for the holidays offer a warm and comforting feeling. Crowds during winter give people the opportunity to appreciate the stunning art collections by Canova and Hayez.
Distance From Como City: 25 km
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM (closed on Mondays)
3. Como City
Photo: Maurizio Moro5153 / Wikimedia Commons
The main city of Como is remarkably transformed with the astonishing “Città dei Balocchi” Christmas market. Unlike the rest of the year, the Como Cathedral looks incredible against the winter sky, illuminated during the day. Also, the promenade offers delightful walks to the lakeside. There are also activities available near Brunate, as the funicular operates year-round. The views of the Alps and the lake from above, especially when dusted with snow, are breathtaking.
Timings: City accessible all day (Christmas market: 10 AM – 10 PM)
4. Varenna
Photo: Ashley Pomeroy / Wikimedia Commons
This scenic fishing village is still one of the easiest places to visit near Lake Como in December. It has good rail connections and is not impacted as much by the reduced ferry service. The beautiful lakeside walk, Passeggiata degli Innamorati, offers great winter views of the lake and the mountains. The gardens at Villa Monastero may not be in bloom, but they still offer lovely winter scenery. Local eateries offer delicious northern winter dishes like polenta with local cheese.
Distance From Como City: 40 km
Timings: Town accessible all day (attractions have varied winter hours)
5. Menaggio
Photo: Maurizio Moro5153 / Wikimedia Commons
This town located on the western shore of Lake Como offers a restful winter getaway through its stunning lakeside promenade. Menaggio has three frazioni naming Croce, Loveno and Nobiallo. In December, local bistros and cafes offer warm atmospheres featuring winter specials on their menus. The main piazza often hosts small Christmas markets on weekends, selling local crafts and holiday treats. The local hiking paths that are busy during summer turn into quiet winter walks, with beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains.
Distance From Como City: 28 km
Timings: Town accessible all day
Where To Stay
Photo: Aloa / Wikimedia Commons
The hotels in Lake Como in December seem magical. Most are decorated for the holidays and have cozy fireplaces. Lake Como has hotels for all budgets. Grand Hotel Tremezzo remains open for all tourists with indoor heated pools and great lake views. Rental prices of smaller hotels like Hotel du Lac in Bellagio are with the special winter offers. There are also guest houses in Como City to have a unique experience. Many hotels lower their prices in winter, so you can enjoy luxury stays for less.
Where To Eat
Photo: Narda Yescas / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
During winter, Lake Como’s eateries serve warm Italian cuisine. Seasonal menus such as dried lake fish and polenta are available at Trattoria del Porto in Careno with lakeside dining. Ristorante Sociale in Como City serves risotto with perch as a winter favourite alongside other seasonal delicacies, served in historical settings. Mistral at Hotel Serbelloni in Bellagio does fancy winter-tasting menus for fine dining lovers. Many restaurants prepare special Christmas menus with multiple courses of local dishes, making December a great time for food lovers.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
- For December, it is advisable to travel in warm clothes, as the snowfall during this period is around 2 – 8°C.
- Changes in ferry schedules should be checked during winter as services between lake towns are reduced.
- To reach more remote attractions flexibly, renting a car is a good option due to the limited access to public transport in winter.
- The operating hours of smaller attractions should also be checked before visiting as fewer hours are available in winter.
- In the case of remote villages, they close relatively early in the winter months. Therefore, one should book accommodation well in advance.
Travellers can take a comfortable trip to Lake Como in December and enjoy an iconic destination without the summer tourist rush. The view of the lake combines with the festive cheer, winter activities, and cosy indoor experiences. These make it great for people who want to come from the colder areas of Europe. Whether you love exploring Christmas markets or prefer relaxing in a cafe with a warm drink, this lake has something for you. Plan this visit with TripXL, as they help you uncover the true magic of this Italian gem.
Cover Photo: PiRGoif / Wikimedia Commons
