Welp, the planned "take my parents to the UK this summer" has recently changed to "let's go to Italy". I had my Dad watch "A Month by the Lake" and that's all it took. My Mom needed no arm twisting as Lake Como is also one of her favorites.

I've been twice in May - both mid-May and late May (arriving late May come to think of it - mostly early June). Both times were stupendous - weather, flowers, not too crowded.

My preference is yet again late May - start on the Lake around May 19-20, end the trip in Venice with a flight home on May 31. Not yet sure I can arrange this around work. June would be even worse re: work as it's closer to the end of the quarter.

If not May, what would be your choice? The first 11-12 days of July would be the most logical b/c the quarter would have just ended but it may be hot and crowded in both places... right?

I really want my Dad to see the beautiful gardens and villas in their full glory. I suppose I could ask for time off earlier in May and indeed that may be a better choice.

What would be the earliest week you'd visit Lake Como (to max out on the flowers and have a better chance of decent weather) and if Spring doesn't work, what part of the summer would you choose?

I realize you take your chances on rain but both times, so far, we've been extraordinarily lucky - mostly sunny and shirt-sleeve weather.

Thanks...

We had a wonderful time in Belaggio. It was a wee bit crowded, but that added to the aura. The restaurants and shops were so wonderful, and I would go again.
We stayed at a small hotel, if you want the name, contact me. It was $130 euros a night.
The view of the harbor is spectacular. [email protected]

Last time we were there it was in late May; the roses in Menaggio were beautiful. Weather was great and the entire area mid-lake not at all crowded.

A few years ago, we arrived in Bellagio on April 26 and stayed for three nights. The azaleas were in full bloom and the rhododendrons were a day or two short of full bloom. Most of the plantings at Villa Carlotta were blooming and lovely. We had sunny breezy days, and a momentary rain squall or two.

We were there in late May and many of the azaleas and rhododendrons were finished blooming.....I'd take a chance on earlier in May rather than mid-summer.

The way that I understand it, The last weekend in June is considered the start of the lake season (Cresta de San giovanni).

We have been in the last few days of May and have at times gotten cloudy/rainy weather. Not bad enough to ruin the trip however . Never lasted too many days.

I would think that the peak crowds are August, maybe last week in July as well. But the latest that we have ever been there was mid-july.

Hi all

Thanks... I'm definitely trying for May. I just found out there is a family member's big anniversary smack in the middle of the dates planned which means even more date adjustment. sigh.