Lake Como Villas and Gardens: Autumn 2026
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit the historic villas and gardens of Lake Como. The changing colours, softer light and quieter atmosphere make the parks and lakeside walks particularly enjoyable.
During September and October, many of the lake’s most famous villas are still open to visitors, and some remain open into November.
Villa Carlotta – Tremezzina
The beautiful botanical garden of Villa Carlotta changes completely with the arrival of autumn. Maples, plane trees and many other plants take on warm shades of yellow, orange and red.
In 2026, the villa and gardens are open every day until 18 October, from 10 am to 7 pm, and from 19 October to 8 November, from 10 am to 6 pm. Special openings are also planned on selected weekends in November and December.
From 2 October to 8 November, Villa Carlotta also hosts its Autumn Festival, with seasonal displays, activities and special events.
Villa del Balbianello – Tremezzina
One of the most iconic villas on Lake Como is just as beautiful in autumn. Its famous loggia, terraces overlooking the lake and carefully maintained gardens are particularly impressive on clear days in September and October.
Special visits and experiences organised by FAI are also planned during autumn 2026. It is always a good idea to check the calendar and book in advance, especially at weekends.
Villa Melzi Gardens – Bellagio
The Gardens of Villa Melzi remain open until the end of October 2026, every day from 10 am to 7 pm.
The long lakeside walk, mature trees, Japanese garden, sculptures and neoclassical architecture take on warmer colours at this time of year, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Villa Melzi itself is a private residence and is not open to visitors. The entrance ticket includes access to the gardens, the chapel and the museum.
Villa Monastero – Varenna
The long botanical garden of Villa Monastero, directly overlooking the lake, is also well worth visiting during autumn.
In September 2026, the garden is open every day from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm, and in October from 10 am to 6 pm. Visits are also possible in November and December, with shorter opening hours and some closing days.
The historic house museum, Casa Museo, can also be visited, although opening times may vary during the season.
Villa Erba – Cernobbio
Unlike the other villas, Villa Erba does not have a regular seasonal schedule for tourist visits. Throughout the year, the historic villa and its large lakeside park host exhibitions, concerts, cultural events and other special occasions. Some of these events offer visitors the opportunity to discover the villa and its grounds.
It is therefore worth checking the events calendar before planning a visit.
WHEN TO VISIT
Late September and October are probably the best time to enjoy Lake Como in autumn. The weather can still be pleasant, the colours begin to change and the lake is generally quieter than during the summer months. Visiting the villas and gardens of Lake Como in autumn offers a different experience of the area: quieter, warmer in colour and with a beautiful seasonal light that makes the gardens, historic architecture and lake views even more special.