Lake Como in summer is a place of shimmering water, steep staircases, and cobblestones that have been polished by centuries of footsteps. For travellers aged 50 to 70, the difference between a memorable holiday and a physically exhausting one often comes down to what you pack—and more specifically, what you put on your feet. This guide is not a generic packing list; it is a practical, place-specific strategy for navigating the lake's unique terrain, microclimate, and summer heat with comfort and confidence.
What shoes should I pack for Lake Como's cobblestones and steps?
Pack exactly two pairs of shoes: one pair of supportive, grippy walking shoes (sneakers or sturdy leather sandals) and one pair of lightweight evening flats or dressier sandals. Leave high heels and flip-flops at home; the terrain is unforgiving and the locals will spot a struggling tourist from fifty metres.
The historic towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are built on steep hillsides. Their streets are paved with uneven cobblestones, and many of the most scenic routes involve staircases with dozens of steps. As one traveller from the US put it on a travel forum, "you will be on your feet all day and dealing with cobblestones—supportive shoes with insoles are essential." Brands like Mephisto, Ecco, and Rieker are frequently recommended by older travellers as dressier alternatives to sneakers that still provide good arch support and traction.
Ferry gangways present another challenge. The gap between the dock and the boat can be significant, and the metal ramps become slippery when wet. A shoe with a deep tread pattern will give you the grip you need to board and disembark safely. If you plan to visit the lake's beaches—rocky shores rather than sand—consider packing a pair of lightweight water shoes. Several travellers on the Rick Steves forum noted they regretted not bringing them for the pebbly lake bottom.
How do I dress for Lake Como's microclimate?
Pack lightweight, breathable layers in natural fabrics like linen and cotton. A typical summer day starts cool (17°C/63°F), peaks at 30°C (86°F) or higher by mid-afternoon, and drops sharply after sunset. A light sweater or jacket is non-negotiable for evening ferry rides and dinner on a lakeside terrace.
According to climate data from TravelClimate.net, July is the hottest month with average highs of 27°C (80°F), but heatwaves can push temperatures to 38°C (100°F) with humidity between 65 and 75 per cent. The lake's glacial origin means the water stays cold even in summer, and the wind chill on a fast ferry can make a short crossing feel 10 degrees cooler. This is not a destination for a single outfit; you will change clothes multiple times in a day.
For daytime exploration, choose loose-fitting linen trousers or capri pants, a breathable cotton or linen top, and a wide-brimmed hat. Shorts are acceptable in tourist areas, but many churches require shoulders and knees to be covered, so carry a light scarf or a long-sleeved shirt in your daypack. For the evening, a simple sundress or lightweight trousers with a cotton sweater works perfectly. The dress code at upscale restaurants is "smart casual"—no need for a jacket, but leave the beachwear in your room.
What luggage is best for stepped towns?
Use a lightweight carry-on suitcase with four spinner wheels, or a wheeled backpack if you are comfortable with one. Porters are rarely available at train stations, and you may need to carry your bag up a flight of stairs or across a cobbled square. A heavy checked bag will become your enemy within the first hour.
Varenna's train station, for example, is connected to the ferry dock by a steep hill with steps. As of July 2026, local taxis are the recommended option for this segment if you have mobility concerns, but wait times can reach one hour in peak season. The same challenge applies in Bellagio, where the car park sits above the town centre and the main street descends sharply towards the lake. If you are staying in a historic building—many of which have no lift—you will be grateful for a bag that weighs under 10 kilograms.
The ferry system itself is luggage-friendly: boats have designated luggage areas, and the crew are accustomed to helping passengers with bags. But the gangways are narrow, and a bulky suitcase will slow you down during boarding. A soft-sided duffel bag or a backpack with a hip belt distributes weight better than a hard-shell suitcase if you need to walk any distance.
How do I handle the summer heat?
Adopt the "shift" strategy: walk between 9 AM and 1 PM, rest during the peak heat from noon to 3 PM, and resume activities at 5 PM. This is the rhythm locals follow, and it makes the difference between a pleasant day and a miserable one. High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses are essential, not optional.
The Alpine sun reflects off the lake surface, intensifying exposure. Sunburn can happen even on overcast days. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and consider a sun-protective shirt for long days on the water. Mosquitoes are also prevalent in the humid lakeside vegetation, so pack an effective repellent. Several travellers on the Rick Steves forum recommended non-toxic wipes or a DEET-free spray for sensitive skin.
Air conditioning is not universal in Lake Como's hotels. Many historic buildings rely on thick stone walls and shutters to stay cool, which works well until a heatwave. When booking, check whether the room has air conditioning and whether it operates on a timer or is individually controlled. Recent guest reviews for Hotel Barchetta Excelsior (Google 4.3/5, 814 reviews as of July 2026) praise its "excellent air conditioning" as a "real relief during the blistering summer heat." If you are sensitive to heat, prioritise hotels with modern cooling systems.
For a deeper look at timing your visit, see our guide When to Visit Lake Como for Warm Days and Small Crowds.
What about accessibility and medical support?
Lake Como's older villages are not wheelchair-friendly, but the main promenades in Como, Menaggio, and Tremezzo offer step-free access. The ferry system is the most accessible form of transport between towns. For medical needs, the universal European emergency number is 112, and pharmacies are widely available in every town.
The pedestrian paths in Bellagio and Varenna are steep and uneven, with many staircases. If you have limited mobility, consider basing yourself in Como or Menaggio, where the lakeside promenades are flatter and better maintained. The C10 bus line connects Como to Menaggio and Colico, and the C30 bus runs from Como to Bellagio via Nesso. Timetables are available on the ASF Autolinee website or the MooneyGO app.
For healthcare, the main hospital is Ospedale Sant'Anna in Como (Via Ravona, San Fermo della Battaglia, tel. +39 031 5851). Smaller hospitals serve Menaggio and Gravedona. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross and can treat minor ailments; the pharmacist will advise whether you need a doctor. For a complete guide to medical services, see our dedicated article Health, Pharmacies and Peace of Mind on Lake Como: A Practical Guide for Travellers 50–70.
"I have arthritis in both knees, and I was worried about the hills in Varenna," says Susan T., a traveller from Canada. "I booked a taxi from the station to the ferry, and it cost €15. Worth every euro. The key is knowing your limits and planning around them."
What should I pack for ferry rides?
Pack a light jacket or windbreaker, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small bag for motion sickness remedies. Ferry rides can last from 15 minutes to over two hours, and the wind chill on a fast hydrofoil is significant even on a hot day. A scarf or buff is useful for protecting your neck from both sun and wind.
The ferry network is the most scenic way to explore the lake. As of July 2026, Navigazione Laghi runs regular services connecting all major towns. The journey from Varenna to Como takes over two hours by slow ferry, not the short drive time many assume. Plan your day around the ferry schedule, and always carry a bottle of water and a snack. The boats have small bars, but queues can be long in peak season.
If you are prone to motion sickness, take a preventative tablet before boarding. The lake can get choppy in the afternoon, especially on the wider central basin. A small cross-body bag is better than a backpack on a crowded ferry, as it keeps your valuables secure and accessible without having to remove it.
What are the new rules for 2026?
Como city is testing a €5 day-tripper fee for visitors who do not stay overnight, inspired by Venice's model. Villa del Balbianello has reduced daily entries from 2,000 to 1,200, requiring advance booking. Ferry capacity is limited during peak hours. Plan ahead or risk being turned away.
Overtourism has prompted significant changes. According to local press reports from 2024–2026, the €5 fee was tested on select dates in May, June, and July 2024 and remains under discussion for full implementation. Villa del Balbianello, the iconic filming location for Star Wars: Episode II and Casino Royale, now requires advance tickets. On-site sales are limited and often sell out. Access from the ticket office to the villa involves a 20-minute walk on paved and gravel paths with steep uphill sections; comfortable walking shoes are essential. Arriving by boat deposits you at a private jetty and avoids the uphill walk.
For wine lovers, the lake's terraced vineyards offer a different perspective. See our guide Wine Tasting Around Lake Como and the Valtellina: A Relaxed Guide for Wine-Minded Travellers 50–70 for a curated itinerary.
Where can I find pharmacies and emergency care?
Pharmacies are marked with a green cross and are open Monday to Saturday, 8:30 AM–12:30 PM and 3:00 PM–7:30 PM. Sunday hours vary; check the door for the rotating "farmacie di turno" schedule. For non-emergency medical care, call 116117 (Guardia Medica).
Carry a small health kit with remedies for motion sickness, mosquito bites, sunburn, and minor digestive issues. This will save you from hunting for a pharmacy when you are tired and hungry. Keep all prescription medications in their original packaging, and carry a copy of your prescription. EU citizens should bring their EHIC card for free or reduced-cost treatment; non-EU travellers need private insurance documentation.
For a complete overview of medical facilities, refer to our dedicated health guide linked above.
What are the best locations for senior travellers?
Stay in the central lake area—Varenna, Bellagio, or Menaggio—for the best boat access and views. Avoid the city of Como if your goal is to explore the mid-lake, as travel time is misleadingly long. Varenna is frequently recommended as a great base for touring the mid-lake.
Each town has its character. Varenna is quieter and more compact, with a lovely lakeside promenade. Bellagio is busier and more commercial, but its position at the lake's "Y" junction makes it a transport hub. Menaggio offers a good balance of amenities and access to the western shore. If you prefer a slower pace, consider Lenno or Tremezzo, where the Greenway walk offers a flat, scenic route along the lake.
Recent guest reviews for Villa del Balbianello (Google 4.7/5, 12,396 reviews as of July 2026) consistently praise the gardens as "the most beautiful on the lake." Guests note that the guided tour of the villa interior is highly recommended, but the interior is not open to unguided visitors. The walking path back from the villa to Lenno is downhill and scenic, making a boat-to-villa/walk-back combination a practical choice for older travellers.
What should I leave at home?
Leave high heels, stilettos, and any shoe with a smooth sole. Leave bulky jewellery, expensive watches, and anything you would be devastated to lose. Leave a full-sized toiletries kit—buy sunscreen and insect repellent at a local pharmacy. Leave the expectation of perfect weather; pack for sun, rain, and cool evenings.
Lake Como is a place of casual elegance. The most stylish travellers are the ones who look comfortable: a linen shirt, well-fitted trousers, and good shoes. Overpacking is the most common mistake. You will not need a different outfit for every dinner, and you will not need formal wear unless you are dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Stick to a capsule wardrobe of mix-and-match pieces in neutral colours, and you will fit in perfectly.
For food-focused travellers, see our curated roundup Lake Como Hotels Worth Booking for the Food: A Curated Roundup for Travellers 50–70.
