Lombardy is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful lakes – perfect for an autumn getaway. Beyond the famous Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore, the region offers lesser-known lakes rich in natural beauty and cultural treasures. Visiting in November means fewer crowds, golden autumn colours, and cosy village atmospheres. Here’s your guide to Lombardy’s six main lakes and what makes each one special.
- Lake Como – autumn views and elegant villages
- Lake Maggiore – autumn gardens and lakeside charm
- Lake Garda – mild weather and historic towns
- Lake Iseo – scenic villages and wine tours
- Lake Lugano – autumn walks and Swiss charm
- Lake Idro – Alpine adventures and quiet autumn days
- Why visit Lombardy’s lakes in autumn?
Lake Como – autumn views and elegant villages
Lake Como is one of Europe’s most scenic destinations, especially in autumn, when the surrounding mountains turn into a tapestry of red, orange, and gold. The lake’s upside-down Y shape is lined with charming villages, terraced gardens, and panoramic viewpoints.
Highlights:
- Bellagio, the “pearl of the lake”, with flower-filled streets and views over both branches.
- Varenna and Vezio Castle, connected by the Sentiero del Viandante, offering spectacular autumn vistas.
- Villa del Balbianello (Lenno) and Villa Carlotta (Tremezzo), with gardens at their most colourful in autumn.
- Como city, with its walled old town, Cathedral, and the Como–Brunate funicular.
- Menaggio and the Riviera della Tremezzina, ideal for exploring by boat.
Travel tips: Take a direct train from Milan to Como S. Giovanni or Lecco, then explore by ferry. Autumn is ideal for quiet walks along the lakeside and relaxing in cosy cafés.
Lake Maggiore – autumn gardens and lakeside charm
The Lombard shores of Lake Maggiore in Varese province are perfect for an autumn escape. The lake offers gardens, hermitages, and some of Italy’s prettiest lakeside promenades.
Highlights:
- Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso (Leggiuno), perched on a cliff above the lake.
- Rocca di Angera, home to the Doll Museum and panoramic terraces.
- Luino, with a charming lakeside promenade and historic Wednesday market.
- The Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori), with gardens at their autumn peak and fewer tourists.
Travel tips: Take a train to Luino or Laveno Nord, or drive via the A8 to Sesto Calende. November is ideal for peaceful lakeside strolls and enjoying the autumn scenery.
Lake Garda – mild weather and historic towns
The Lombard side of Lake Garda, in Brescia province, combines mild autumn weather with historic villages, beaches, and internationally recognised destinations like Sirmione and Desenzano.
Highlights:
- Sirmione, with its historic centre, Grotte di Catullo, and lakeside thermal baths.
- Desenzano del Garda, featuring a marina, castle, and evening entertainment.
- Gardone Riviera, home to the Vittoriale degli Italiani and colourful gardens.
- Salò, with elegant promenades and autumn shopping opportunities.
- Tremosine, with the dramatic Strada della Forra and natural lake balconies.
Travel tips: Milan is just over an hour from Desenzano by high-speed train. Northern areas, like Limone sul Garda, take around 2½ hours by car. Autumn offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Lake Iseo – scenic villages and wine tours
Lake Iseo is ideal for a November visit, with fewer crowds and autumnal colours enhancing the scenery. It’s also home to Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island.
Highlights:
- Zone Pyramids, unique earth formations accessible via an easy autumn walk.
- Iseo, with lakeside cafés perfect for a seasonal aperitif.
- Franciacorta, famous for wine tours and cycling through vineyards at their most colourful.
Travel tips: Take the Brescia–Iseo–Edolo train along the eastern shore or drive via Rovato/Palazzolo. November is perfect for tasting local wines and exploring quiet village streets.
Lake Lugano – autumn walks and Swiss charm
Also called Ceresio, Lake Lugano stretches into Switzerland. The Lombard side, including Porlezza, Valsolda, and Claino con Osteno, is particularly charming in autumn, with green coves, stone villages, and lakeside trails.
Highlights:
- Porlezza, with a peaceful promenade and small beaches.
- Valsolda, home to Villa Fogazzaro Roi.
- Scenic trails from Alpe Vecchio and natural balconies overlooking the lake.
Travel tips: Drive from Como via SS340 Regina, or take cross-border buses connecting Como, Porlezza, and Lugano. Autumn brings crisp air, golden foliage, and quiet trails for walkers.
Lake Idro – Alpine adventures and quiet autumn days
Lake Idro, in Val Sabbia, is a wild alpine lake, perfect for sailing, kayaking, or hiking in November. Its shores, forests, and tranquil villages make it a peaceful autumn retreat.
Highlights:
- Rocca d’Anfo, a historic fortress with guided tours and panoramic views.
- Vesta beaches and the lakeside in Idro, perfect for relaxing walks.
- Cycling and mountain bike routes along the lake and through the forests.
Travel tips: From Brescia, follow SS237 del Caffaro; from the north, descend via Storo in Trentino. Provincial buses also connect Brescia and the valley.
Why visit Lombardy’s lakes in autumn?
Visiting Lombardy’s lakes in November offers:
- Fewer crowds and a more authentic experience.
- Stunning autumn colours reflected in the water.
- Opportunities to enjoy cosy cafés, historic villas, and seasonal Italian food.
From Lake Como’s elegant villages to Lake Garda’s mild-climate hikes, Lombardy’s lakes are magical in autumn and perfect for weekend getaways or longer stays.
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