Self-Guided Lake Como Hiking and Walking Tour

Arrival

Travelers can arrive in northern Italy via Milan Malpensa Airport or Milan Linate Airport. From Milan, take a train to Como, the main gateway to the lake. From Como, board a scenic boat across Lake Como to reach Lenno. The overall journey from Milan airport to Lenno takes approximately one hour, depending on connections. Upon arrival at the Lenno boat pier, your hotel is just a 15-minute walk, with detailed directions and a map provided in the roadbook.

Departure

At the end of the tour, travelers can follow the same route in reverse. From Lenno, take a boat back across Lake Como to Como, enjoying the final views of the lake and surrounding mountains. From Como, regular train services connect directly to Milan, allowing easy access to both Milan Malpensa Airport and Milan Linate Airport for onward international or domestic flights. This simple and well-connected transport route ensures a smooth and convenient departure after your Lake Como walking experience.

Lake Como experiences a mild temperate climate, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as walking and hiking during much of the year.

The best months to visit are May, June, and September, when temperatures range between 18–25°C (64–77°F), offering pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and comfortable conditions for exploring.

Good months include April, July, and August, with temperatures between 20–30°C (68–86°F), though summer can be warmer and more crowded.

Mixed-season months such as March and October have cooler temperatures of around 12–18°C (54–64°F) with occasional rain, but still provide enjoyable scenery and fewer tourists.

The off-season occurs from November to February, when temperatures drop to around 3–10°C (37–50°F) and many tourism services operate on limited schedules. Overall, late spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant climate for visiting Lake Como.

Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.

Recommended Hiking Clothes & Gear

• Lightweight hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
• Moisture-wicking base layers and breathable hiking shirts.
• Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts.
• Light fleece or down jacket for cooler temperatures.
• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
• Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Hiking poles if you prefer extra support on uneven terrain.
• Small daypack with hydration system or water bottles.
• Headlamp or small flashlight.
• Light gloves and a beanie for early mornings or higher altitudes.

Clothing

• Layered clothing for temperature changes throughout the day.
• Full-sleeved tops for sun and insect protection.
• Comfortable evening wear for lodges or inns.
• Compact rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
• Extra socks, preferably synthetic or wool.

Other Necessities

• Basic first-aid kit with personal medication.
• Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder.
• Snacks like trail mix, nuts, or energy bars.
• Plug adaptor and power bank for charging devices.

Pro Tips

• Pack light. You'll appreciate it on the trail.
• Break in your shoes before the trip to avoid blisters.
• Keep rain gear easy to access in your daypack.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

• UK Residents: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Travel Advice.
• US Residents: US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Australian Residents: Smartraveller.
• Canadian Residents: Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories.
• New Zealand Residents: SafeTravel.
• Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Check for updates close to departure to avoid last-minute issues.

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.

Is proof of medical insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.