5 Must-Pack Lake Como Outfits (And What Not to Wear)

Lake Como feels straight out of a dream. From the sparkling blue waters to the charming cafes and lake front villas, there’s so much to love about this area of Italy. While booking your trip is an easy choice, the hard part may be picking what Lake Como outfits to pack! Here’s some fun Lake Como outfit ideas and inspo for your next vacation.

Lake Como Outfit Ideas For All Seasons

Our recent trip was in August when the weather was sunny almost every day. Most travelers head to Lake Como are in the warm summer months.

However, know that it’s right on the border of the Alps! This makes for some beautiful scenery, but it can be chillier than expected during certain times of the year.

Also, keep in mind that Lake Como is only an hour from Milan, Italy. Everyone is fancy and fashionable here! Yet, remember that there’s plenty of exploring to be done as a traveler, whether you’re staying in Como, Menaggio, Bellagio, or Varenna.

Most items are based on your own style, and we always recommend wearing what makes you feel most comfortable. Here’s a few of our favorite Lake Como outfits to take with you on your journey.

Planning Your Visit to Como Italy

🚂 The best way to get here is by train from Milan. Then you can stay in Como Town and day trip to all the beautiful villages around the lake. Here’s the perfect 10 day northern Italy itinerary by train to help plan your visit.

⛵️ Once you arrive in Como, utilize the ferry instead of a taxi to the other towns. The roads and parking can be quite tight and intense for someone whose  never driven in Italy before.

🚗 If you do rent a car, make sure to book well in advance in the summertime. We use this website to find the best prices and compare companies.

🥾 Some of the most popular things to do in Lake Como are to take a private boat tour, eat your heart out on an Italian food tour, or even go for a hiking picnic! 

♥️ We use Safetywing while abroad. No matter the company you choose, always make sure to have travel insurance.  

Hotel Options Around Lake Como

• Como City: Palace Hotel Lake Como, Villa Platamone, B&B Convento S. Antonio
• Menaggio: Hotel Garni Corona, Hotel Bellavista
• Bellagio: Hotel Du Lac & SPA, Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, Haus Bethusy
• Varenna: Divina Vita Apartments, Hotel Olivedo, Villa Monti

5 Must-Pack Lake Como Outfits For Italy

1. Sunny Summer Dresses 

This is my go to for Lake Como outfits. They look pretty, aren’t too tight with the hot summer weather, and obviously can fit any personal style. Check out this option for some Lake Como outfit inspo.

While I packed several styles, I actually ended up buying a couple maxi dresses. They were only 10 euros each at the local weekly market! These are now are some of my favorite souvenirs form my trip to Italy. 

I also like to wear a pair of thin yoga shorts under the dress (like this one) for the really hot and sticky days. They definitely came in handy when we ventured off to the city of Florence in August as well.

2. Bathing Suits & Beachwear 

Our Como outfits guide wouldn’t be complete without actual bathing-suites. Not only can you rent a boat and spend the day hopping in and out of the water, but you’ll also want to hit the beach!

This is why it’s common to see many Lake Como outfits that look more like beach resort wear. Personally, I love long sleeve linen shirts because they are loose, light weight, and protect from the sun.

3. Como Outfit For Exploring

There are lots of fun outdoor activities you won’t want to miss around Lake Como. This includes hiking, biking, and, of course, swimming.

Relaxing is definitely one of the best things to do on Lake Como. However, you should definitely add some adventure to your itinerary! One of our favorite experiences was hiking to the Vezio Castle in Varenna.

This means you’ll want to pack a Lake Como outfit that’s cute, but also practical. You won’t see anyone in “workout” clothing unless they are literally exercising. However, I did bring one hiking outfit, and was super happy I packed it. 

4. Casual Daytime Clothes

These are some Lake Como outfits I would wear when I wasn’t in long dresses. Basically, a cute pair of white, black, or patterned fitted shorts, and a stylish top. This is definitely something more elevated than jean shorts and a t-shirt. 

I always make sure to have a hat and sunglasses with me, as the reflection from the lake can be harsh as well.

5. Lake Como Outfits For a Night Out 

Nights out on Lake Como are filled with wine, pasta and glorious sunset views. I don’t usually go super dressy, but you will certainly see others who do. It’s good to wear something sleek and modern that also fits your own style. 

One of the reasons we enjoy Italy so much is all the delicious food. So if something feels too tight when you’re at home packing, it’s not going to feel any looser in Italy! For this reason, it’s best to stick to a comfortable Como outfit for dinnertime. 

Shoes With Your Como Outfits

One thing to stress with your Lake Como outfit ideas is having the right shoes. Many of the historic streets are filled with uneven stones, and there are plenty of steps to explore in towns like Bellagio. 

Honestly, I would avoid any kind of high healed shoes where you can easily trip or twist your ankle. That’s not what you need on your Lake Como holiday! 

I always pack a pair of white sneakers (like these) and comfortable sandals. There’s no way I would risk not being able to see everything I want to go because my feet hurt… or having a medical emergency because I slipped.

Lake Como Outfits to Skip

This is just from what I’ve noticed while traveling in Italy. As I mentioned, yoga pants and active clothing are not typical unless you are literally in the process of working out. Anything “athleisure” is a hard no. 

While I hate to stay it, lemon print should be avoided. Not because it isn’t cute! Yet, when walking down the street last visit, I saw 5 different girls who were all clearly tourist in the same lemon patterned dresses. 

It’s also best avoid clothing that needs to be ironed or wrinkles easily. Unless you’re at a high-end luxury resort, most places won’t have laundry or an iron on-site.

Also, one of the best things in Italy is the shopping! Instead of trying to make sure you have every exact Lake Como outfit, be sure to save some space to buy new items on vacation.

→ Florence Italy Outfits: What I Actually Wore in the Summer

Have any questions on this article or want to share your own Lake Como outfit inspo? Let us know in the comments. 

Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake

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