lake maggiore travel

The Ultimate Guide to Things to do on Lake Maggiore

Updated March 5, 2024

// By Margherita

Looking for things to do on Lake Maggiore? We’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to Italy’s second lake, with lots of practical tips and info about the best towns on Lake Maggiore. Remember, we’re locals! 

No time to read through?  Book these cool Lake Maggiore trips here!

Our favourite tour provider is GetYourGuide, offering a variety of activities, flexible booking, and 24/7 support!

• From Milan: Stresa, Alps, & Lake Maggiore Full-Day Tour – a day trip from Milan including a lake cruise and Isola Bella!
• From Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour – best-selling package to visit the 3 islands at your own pace
• Lake Maggiore: Borromean Islands Tickets with Boat Transfer – including entry to all the villas and palaces!
• Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise – cruise on the lake at the most magical time of day!
• Lake Maggiore: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu class – learn how to cook delicious Italian food!

Looking for other info on other Italian lakes? Here are our Guide to Lake Como and our Guide to Lake Garda !

If you say ‘Italian Lakes’ , most people would immediately think of Lake Como, or Lake Garda (if you’re Austrian or German, that is). But what about poor Lake Maggiore? 

Lake Maggiore is probably the most offbeat of Italy’s three major lakes, even though it does attract a fair share of visitors, especially during the weekends around the major towns like Stresa, Verbania, and Locarno. It was a popular tourist destination in the late 19th/early 20th century , and some grand hotels dating back to that time still survive. 

Lake Maggiore is a wonderful destination with something to offer for everyone – there’s great hiking around the lakefront and surrounding mountains like Monte Tamaro and Mottarone ; wonderful architecture and history to discover in the Borromean Islands , as well as some stunning botanical gardens for nature lovers. 

Here is our guide to the best things to do in Lake Maggiore , but let’s have a look at some practical information first!

Lake Maggiore Practical Info

Like all the major Italian Lakes, Lake Maggiore is of glacial origin , with a long and narrow shape. It is located on the border between Lombardy and Piedmont – the eastern side of the lake belongs to Lombardy and the western to Piedmont, whereas the northern tip (including the towns of Ascona and Locarno) is part of Switzerland. 

Lake Maggiore is Italy’s second-largest , after Lake Garda. It is known in Italian as ‘Lago Maggiore’ , meaning ‘major lake’, because in the area there are several smaller lakes like the Lake of Varese, Cannobio, Mergozzo , as well as Lake Orta.

Lake Maggiore measures 65 km from north to south (making it the longest Italian lake) and its shoreline is 170 km long.

Best Time to Visit Lake Maggiore

Are you wondering what is the best time to visit Lake Maggiore? The lake is actually a year-round destination, with each season offering different experiences and reasons to visit. Winter can be foggy, but the temperature is usually mild, and it’s low season so you won’t have to worry about the crowds. Summer is great if you want to go swimming or hiking high in the mountains, but it can be very hot and busy with day trippers.

Autumn and spring are probably the best seasons to visit Lake Maggiore – in spring you can admire the stunning flower displays at Villa Taranto and the Borromean Islands, and autumn is ideal to go hiking at lower altitudes, pick chestnuts and admire the colourful autumn leaf display.

How to Get to Lake Maggiore From Milan

It’s very easy to get from Milan to Lake Maggiore by train. Both sides of the lake are served by railway lines – the eastern (Lombardy) by the Milan-Luino line, with hourly departures, and the western (Piedmont) by the Milan-Domodossola line, with some trains continuing to Brig in Switzerland and onward to Basel and Geneva.

To get around Lake Maggiore you can also make use of two ferry lines – one connecting the two sides, from Laveno to Intra (Verbania), and the second running from Arona in the south to Cannobio in the north, and vice-versa. You can get info on ferry schedules and tickets on the official website of Navigazione Laghi .

Can You Swim in Lake Maggiore?

Last question: can you go swimming in Lake Maggiore? In short, the answer is yes . Most Lake Maggiore towns will have a spiaggia (beach), but make sure you don’t swim more than 100/200 meters off the shore to keep a safe distance from speedboats and ferries. Generally speaking, the further north you go, the cleaner the water will be, especially away from the big cities.

The best place to swim in Lake Maggiore (in my opinion) is between Maccagno and Pino , close to the Swiss border.

Best Towns and Things to See on Lake Maggiore 

1) verbania.

Verbania is the biggest town around Lake Maggiore , sitting on its western side with a dazzling backdrop of green-covered mountains, perfect for hiking. Boasting a picturesque lake-front area that invites relaxing sunset strolls and an enchanting old town, Verbania is a must-visit when exploring Lake Maggiore.

The town was born in 1939 by the union of two municipalities, Intra and Pallanza , separated by the San Bernardino river. 

The most beautiful site and most prominent attraction in Verbania, however, is the impressive Villa Taranto. A walk through the elegant gardens of the 19th-century villa, which are easily among the finest in Italy, will surely leave you in awe. The area’s microclimate allows a total of 20.000 plants, including tropical species to grow there, some of which will not normally survive in northern Italy’s cool climate.

The gardens are open between the 12th of March and the 1st of November. You can check out updated opening hours and prices here .

Verbania is well connected by ferry to the rest of the towns surrounding Lake Maggiore, making it an excellent base to explore the rest of the lake.

-Getting to Verbania from Milan:  The Milan-Domodossola line travels along the western part of the lake, stopping at all main Lake Maggiore towns including Verbania-Pallanza. There are hourly departures from Milano Centrale and Milano Porta Garibaldi stations, and travel time is between 1 hour 15 and 1 hour 45.

Stresa is a quaint lake resort town along Lake Maggiore . Recognized for its extravagant villas and Art Nouveau hotels lining the lakefront, Stresa still breathes cultivated air that has influenced the town since the late 19th century.

Add spectacular views of the enchanting Borromean Islands and you have the picture-perfect place for a slow-paced walk or having gelato on a bench.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can also walk under the cool shade of chestnut trees from Stresa to Belgirate on the 10-kilometer Chestnut Trail, especially beautiful in fall when the leaves turn yellow and orange.

-Getting to Stresa from Milan: Domodossola-bound trains also stop at Stresa station. There are hourly departures from Milano Centrale and Milano Porta Garibaldi, and travel time is between 1 hour 10 and 1 hour 30.

Next to Stresa, you find the historical town of Baveno recognized by the cute “Maggie” sculpture and “Lake and Mountains” monument on the promenade. But there are also darker monuments like the 17 Martyrs Memorial and the War Memorial, both reminiscing the fallen in World War two.

However, looking further back in history, there are rustic areas like Domo and Baitone where you find some of the most ancient structures in Baveno, among them, the impressive St. Gervaso and Protaso Church that has sections dating all the way back to the 1050s.

Next to it, the 5th century Baptistery and the Way of the Cross complete the complex which is Baveno’s most prominent tourist attraction.

-Getting to Baveno from Milan:  Baveno is the stop between Stresa and Verbania-Pallanza along the Milan-Domodossola line, so allow about 1 hour 15/1 hour 30 to get there. 

4) Borromean Islands

One of the absolute best things to do on Lake Maggiore is to take a boat trip to explore the picturesque Borromean Islands. The small group of islands includes Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. On top of that, the archipelago includes two small islets, Isolino di San Giovanni and the Rock of Malghera.

In the 16th century, the islands were bought by the Milanese Borromeo family which mostly owns the islands to this day. Since then, opulent palaces and glamorous gardens have been built and maintained and make out the main draw for tourists flocking to these captivating islands.

There are daily boat trips to the Borromean Islands from lakeside towns like Stresa, Baveno, and Verbania. Note that on top of the boat tickets, there is a fee once you get to the islands to enter the palaces.

PLEASE NOTE that Isola Bella and Isola Madre are closed between November and March, whereas Isola dei Pescatori can be accessed year-round (since people actually live there)

-Isola Bella

Isola Bella is one of the most astonishing islands of the archipelago. It took almost 400 years to transform a rock in the lake into a luxurious palace containing exquisite Baroque artwork and a garden like no other.

Of particular interest is the Galleria Berthier with a large collection of original paintings and copies of incredible masterpieces by famous painters like Raphael, Guido Reni, and Correggio. You should also pay attention to the Throne Room, Tapestry Room, and the spectacular Grottoes with walls covered in pebbles and shells.

The garden’s major masterpiece is the imposing monument of Teatro Massimo where vivid plants climb up majestic statues and obelisks in front of the neatly symmetrical garden.

-Isola Madre

Isola Madre is the largest of the islands and is a delightful balance between rich botanical gardens and splendid architecture. The palace on the island is decorated with unique furniture belonging to the Borromeo family. Pay special attention to the Reception Room, the Venetian Lounge, and the Pope’s Room with their prestigious details, wall paintings, and ancient artifacts.

However, the most reputable collection of the palace is the puppet theater used by the Borromeo family to entertain guests since the mid-17th century. In fact, this is the best-preserved puppet collection in the world – right there for you to see on Isola Madre.

To top this off, look out the windows and you will find million-dollar views of the splendid botanical gardens where rare plant species from across the globe live in harmony with perfectly groomed local plants creating one of the most outstanding gardens in Italy.

-Isola dei Pescatori

This is the only one of the Borromean Islands that is inhabited all year round by a little community of fishermen, and it is also the smallest. To take advantage of the tiny space on the island, homes are built on several storeys, with large balconies that are perfect for drying fish.

If you are looking for exquisite fish dishes for lunch, look no further. They also hold a little street market where you can buy gifts. Compared to the other islands, Isola dei Pescatori doesn’t have a palace or gardens to show for, but the quaint little community built on such a tiny space is super cute to witness.

Getting to the Borromean Islands from Stresa:  There are frequent speedboats connecting Stresa to the Borromean Islands, as well as the islands to one another. You can pay separately for each leg you want to cover, get combo tickets including two or three islands, or even a day ticket for €16.90 that includes unlimited journeys between Stresa and the islands

5) Mottarone 

One of the top attractions on Lake Maggiore is the cable car from Stresa to the summit of Mottarone mountain at an altitude of 1491 meters. Unfortunately, it has been closed since 2021, after a tragic accident . There is currently no information on when it will re-open.

As an alternative, you can drive the curvy, scenic road to the top , which will provide sweeping views! It is also a famous climb for local road cyclists , but it’s quite challenging at 15 km long with an average gradient of 6.5%.

Halfway up, where the cable car normally stops for a change of gondola, you can take advantage and visit the Alpinia Gardens before continuing to the summit.

The adventurous will also find the 1.2-kilometer bob-slide on the top an exciting activity to top off their visit to the summit.

6) Laveno-Mombello

Picturesque Laveno-Mombello is yet another town in Lake Maggiore that is worth adding to your itinerary, particularly for two attractions.

Firstly, the impressive Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso which was built in the 13th century catches your eye when coming by boat. Sitting on the steep rock side, there are 80 steps to reach it if you disembark by boat. You can also drive there, which will leave you on the top of 240 steps leading down to the hermitage – or you can ride the elevator. Note that the complex is only open in the morning.

The other attraction of Laveno-Mombello is the unique open-air “bucket gondola” taking you up to Sasso del Ferro where you get spoiled by yet another epic view of the lake.

-Getting to Laveno-Mombello from Milan:  There are hourly trains from Milan Cadorna to Laveno-Mombello Lago, taking approximately 1 hour 40. 

One of the best things to do on Lake Maggiore is to wander the cobblestoned streets of Luino where you will come by traditional markets. It is the birthplace of Piero Chiara and there is even a street in the town named after the writer.

Luino is famed for its emblematic pastel-colored houses and cute cafés and restaurants and makes for the perfect place to grab lunch while touring Lake Maggiore.

If you plan on exploring the Swiss part of the lake, Luino is the natural stop close to the border.

-Getting to Luino from Milan:  There are a couple of direct trains a day from Milan Porta Garibaldi to Luino, taking 1 hour 40. Otherwise you’ll have to change trains in Gallarate, adding about 15/20 minutes to your journey time.

The quintessential town of Angera is mainly known for its hilltop castle, Rocca Borromeo di Angera. The castle complex includes structures from the 11th to the 17th centuries and splendid gardens.

Walk through opulent rooms decorated with exquisite paintings and frescoes. And do not miss out on the Doll and Toy Museum which also finds its place inside.

-Getting to Angera from Milan: First you’ll have to take a train to Sesto Calende – there are hourly departures from Milano Centrale and Milano Porta Garibaldi stations. At Sesto Calende, you can take a taxi or bus to Taino-Angera, just 10 km away. 

Ascona is an enchanting town on the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore , recognized by its colorful houses lining the lakefront and often referred to as “The Pearl of Lake Maggiore”.

Other than strolling along the romantic promenade, Ascona is a wonderful place to do holiday shopping. In the narrow cobblestoned streets in the old town, you will find all sorts of shops.

From Ascona, you can also take a boat to discover the Brissago Islands. Of particular interest is the colorful Botanical Gardens of Ticino where more than 1700 plant species from across the world make out one of the most romanticized gardens in Lake Maggiore.

10) Locarno

Locarno is also on the Swiss side of the lake, famous for its Film Festival that takes place every August, and popular for its delightful microclimate. There are plenty of things to do in this enchanting town where narrow cobblestoned streets lined with pastel-colored houses take you to animated squares.

Visit the 12th-century Visconteo Castle , stroll through the romantic and colorful Parco delle Camelie, and hop on the funicular to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso which is a popular pilgrimage site. From there, you will also be rewarded with sweeping views of Locarno and the lake.

-Getting to Locarno from Milan:  There are direct trains between Milano Centrale and Locarno every two hours, taking 1 hour 50 in total. Alternatively, you’ll have to catch a train to Lugano and switch to a Locarno-bound train. If you love scenic train journeys, you can travel between Domodossola and Locarno along the Ferrovia Centovalli, a popular journey in autumn and winter and one of the best things to do in Italy in November ! Just book ahead as trains sell out in advance.

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Lake Maggiore

Maggiore is Italy’s international lake – its northernmost point protrudes sinuously into Switzerland, while its Italian shores are shared by Piedmont (west) and Lombardy (east). Free of Como’s overt glamour or Garda’s Disney-esque theme parks, it is often considered the most peaceful of northern Italy’s great bodies of water, its shores a little less crowded and its hinterland intriguingly wilder. The star attractions are the Borromean Islands, which, like a fleet of fine vessels, lie at anchor at the Borromean Gulf’s (Golfo Borromeo) entrance, an incursion of water between the lake’s two main towns, Stresa and Verbania.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Isole Borromeo

The Borromean Gulf forms Lake Maggiore's most beautiful corner, sheltering the Borromean Islands and their spectacular, privately owned palaces. Closest…

Villa della Porta Bozzolo

In the unassuming town of Casalzuigno, about 9km east of Laveno, generations of nobles have swanned about the magnificent gardens of Villa della Porta…

Palazzo Borromeo

Lake Maggiore West Bank

Presiding over 10 tiers of spectacular terraced gardens roamed by peacocks, this baroque palace is arguably Lake Maggiore's finest building. Wandering the…

Santa Caterina del Sasso

One of northern Italy's most spectacularly sited monasteries, Santa Caterina del Sasso clings to the high rocky face of Lago Maggiore's southeast shore…

Laveno Funivia

A highlight of Laveno is the Funivia, which whisks passengers up to a panoramic spot 949m above sea level, in the shadow of the Sasso del Ferro peak …

Rocca di Angera

The chunky medieval Rocca di Angera fortress lords it over the town of Angera in no uncertain terms. From a distance, it is the first thing one sees…

Isola Madre

The closest of the three islands to Verbania, Isola Madre is entirely taken up by the Palazzo Madre and the lovely gardens that surround it. The 16th- to…

Villa Taranto

At Villa Taranto it's all about the gardens (the house itself is not open to the public). The grounds of this late-19th-century villa are one of Lake…

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Lake Maggiore and beyond

Lake Maggiore: What No One Tells You About Visiting the Eden of Italy

Visiting the Italian Lakes District

The five lakes that make up Italy’s lake district have a fun rivalry.

Since most travelers make their way to just one, competition for first place is fierce! Lake Como is probably today’s winner but long ago, Lake Maggiore held the crown.

All of the lakes have a balmy Mediterranean climate, with sky blue lakes cradled by the snow crusted Alps. Whether you’re traversing down from Switzerland or up by train from Milan, the lakes are a refreshing sight for sore eyes! 

In today’s post, I’m sharing our trip to Lake Maggiore, which is known throughout Italy for its botanical gardens and stunning villas!

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Lake Maggiore, Italy

Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy and its shoreline touches not only the Swiss canton of Ticino but two Italian regions, Piedmont and Lombardy. The lake was named Maximus (or Maggiore) by the Romans in ancient times as it was the largest of the pre-Alpine lakes.

After the Simplon Pass was built through the Alps to connect Switzerland and Italy, Lake Maggiore became a popular tourist destination. By the 19th century, it was a popular weekend getaway for wealthy Italian families from the big cities, similar to Upstate New York for the titans of the Gilded Age.

Keep reading for what to see and do in Lake Maggiore, Italy!

The Borromeans

These Italian aristocrats built some of Italy’s most stunning villas along the lakeside towns. One family in particular, the Borromeans of Milan, came to dominate Lake Maggiore’s shores.

The Borromean family purchased three rocky islands and over a generation, transformed the boat-shaped inlets into baroque botanical masterpieces. The Borromean Islands are now Lake Maggiore’s most famous attraction and well worth a visit, garden lover or not!

Lake Maggiore’s Towns

Of all Lake Maggiore’s towns, Stresa is the most famous. In addition to magnificent views of the lake and easy ferry access to the Borromean Islands, the town also has restaurants, galleries, cafes and hotels to satisfy all the tourists who visit Northern Italy .

The town has a lively cultural scene year round and is well-known for its musical events in the summer, called Settimane Musicali.

Stresa’s quieter neighborhood, Baveno has escaped the trappings of large-scale tourism while retaining its small town Italian charm. Baveno makes an excellent place to stay in Lake Maggiore if you wish to have easy ferry access to the Borromean Islands while avoiding the higher prices and big crowds.

Angera is most famous for its castle, the Rocca Berromea. Dating back to the 10th century, the castle is one of the best preserved structures in Lombardy and quite popular for weddings.

The Borromean Islands

The Borromean archipelago sits between the shores of Stresa and Verbania. Named after their wealthy owners, the Borromeans built fabulous weekend palaces in Italy’s Romantic Age, filled with antiques, paintings and porcelain.

On the grounds, they created enchanting gardens and placed rare plants and exotic species. Don’t miss a visit to all three islands – Isola Bella , Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori.

Lake Maggiore Hotels

Lake Maggiore retains its Old World charm and romantic atmosphere, but the accommodation here can feel a little dated. During Italy’s Romantic Age, massive resorts were built along the shore to appeal to Victorian aristocrats – with grand names like Regina, Victoria, Astoria and Bristol.

Most have been only lightly renovated so a stay here is like a step back in time. Despite their faded furnishes, we loved the huge resorts with their lakefront promenades, beautiful views and open air terraces.

Stresa makes for the most convenient base, as it’s the largest and has a train station connecting it to many Italian cities, but it also can feels touristy. We opted instead to stay in Baveno.

Where to Stay in Lake Maggiore

As I mentioned, we chose Baveno for our base. The town is quaint and charming, with easy connection to Isola Bella and the other islands. In fact, our hotel was right on the waterfront with a boat dock in the back!

Grand Hotel Dino

This beautiful building is the largest hotel in Baveno and our room was spacious, comfortable and clean. We had a charming balcony overlooking Lake Maggiore, with just enough space for a table and chairs to enjoy a cup of coffee or afternoon aperitif.

Grand Hotel Dino has been family owned for 150 years so it's slightly dated but certain aspects are refreshingly modern. Have lunch or dinner at the on site restaurant Last Hall, which was designed by famous Italian architect Paolo Maldotti to have egg-shaped / wine barrel seating. The food is delicious, with local Piedmont specialties like lamb and hearty pastas.

The hotel is connected to its sister hotel, Simplon, via a long, art-filled tunnel and there's enough swimming pools, sun chairs and ivy covered walkways to keep you wandering the property for several hours. What we liked most was how convenient the hotel is!

The dock for water taxis and boats is right off the back of Grand Hotel Dino , making it perfect for trips to any of the Borromean Islands or even day trips to nearby Lake Orta.

Book rooms: Hotels.com , Booking.com

Check prices: TripAdvisor

Best Things to Do in Lake Maggiore

1. isola bella.

Lake Maggiore’s main attraction is the Borromean Islands and the crown jewel of the trio is Isola Bella. Take a boat taxi to ferry you around the island and you’ll see how it’s shaped like a boat, with a pyramid-shaped garden in the back and a grand villa steering the front. You can read more about our tour of the palace and gardens here .

Isola Bella was famous for its villa and gardens, and the Borromean family threw lavish parties for famous figures throughout the ages – including Montesquieu, Napoleon and Josephine, the Prince of Wales and Ernest Hemingway. 

2. Isola Madre

Next, head back to the boat to visit Isola Madre, with its rival palace and gardens.

Whereas Isola Bella was built in the Baroque style, to be perfectly landscaped into formal garden structures, Isola Madre was created in the English-style, to showcase plants in natural landscaping.

Both, however, take an armful of gardeners to achieve their looks (no less than 23 gardeners and 10 part timers). Isola Madre’s 19 gardens are designed to feel private, with shaded wisteria arches, soaring 20 foot high hedges and windy pathways.

Take a tour to enjoy the atmosphere and artful decoration before hopping back on the boat. We took a private tour to explore the Borromean Islands which included a knowledgeable local guide and included all our transportation.

Check availability and rates here .

3. Isola Pescatori

The smallest of the three islands, Isola Pescatori is a quaint village of cobblestone streets and a circular promenade. The tiny fishing village is known for its restaurants and cafes.

We came here for dinner at sunset and the local fish excellent. It was a beautiful end to our Maggiore stay, with the sun glimmering off the waves. 

4. Villa Taranto

If you haven’t had your fill of magnificent gardens, visit Villa Taranto. Its botanical gardens are famous – and better yet, draw half the crowds of the Borromean Islands. You can read more about our day trip to Villa Taranto here .

5. Rocca di Angera

Rocca di Angera is a hilltop castle on Lake Maggiore’s southern shores.

The medieval walls are perfectly preserved with paintings, furniture and even 18th century toys. Don’t forget to head out back to check out – you guessed it – the beautiful gardens. This tour takes care of round trip transportation and includes a local guide. 

6. Mottarone Cable Car

For the opposite view, head high up on the Mottarone cable car to soak in magnificent views. On a clear day, you can see not only Lake Maggiore but also Lake Orta , the Alps and Po Valley!

The cable car departs from Stresa and has two notable stops. The first, about halfway up, are the Alpine Gardens which make for a great place to picnic. The second, is Mount Mottarone, as far up as you can go! 

Round trip tickets cost approximately 19 euros to the top or 11.50 euros one way.

7. Eat on the Water

Perhaps the most famous restaurant in Lake Maggiore is Ristorante Milano, which sits literally on the water. The best way is to arrive by boat and see the glass encased structure from the lake. Great service, Milanese fare and unbeatable views – what more could you want?

When to Visit

Lago Maggiore as the locals call it, is just a short train ride from Milan. It’s quite popular as a weekend retreat so to avoid crowds, try going on a weekday.

The best time to visit Maggiore is in the spring, when all the flowers are in bloom. As Italy’s Garden of Eden, it’d be a shame to miss the landscapes in their peak! Come in May or June for the best atmosphere.

From Milan to Lake Maggiore

The easiest way to visit Lake Maggiore is from Northern Italy. Trains depart Milan’s Centrale station and take roughly 1 hour to reach Maggiore.

You can check the train schedule and buy tickets  online here . In Italy, train fares increase with time, so book your tickets once you know your travel dates. 

Alternatively, since Lake Maggiore is close to the Swiss border, you can also take the Swiss Rail at Brig to Stresa.

Getting Around the Lake

Lake Maggiore has an excellent network of ferries so you can see the lake and all its small Italian villages easily. You can pick a public ferry in Stresa, Baveno or Carciano to visit the Borromean Islands, or book a private taxi which is faster and more convenient (especially if you have luggage with you).

Check the prices and schedules ahead of time, as one way rides are the most expensive. Since the schedules change frequently, it’s easiest to take a photo of the schedule in front of the ferry when you arrive in Italy.

Typically, the ferries first stop at Isola Bella or Isola Pescatori, as they are closest to the shoreline. Depending on the ferry schedule, you’ll have 1 or 2 hours to see the island on your own.

If you plan to visit just Isola Bella, book this hop on, hop off ticket to sight see at your pace.

If you want to see all three Borromean Islands, this hop-on hop-off ticket allows you to travel in style comfortably, at whatever pace you wish.

Are you planning a trip to Lake Maggiore? Don’t forget to read the rest of my travel guides to the Italian Lakes below! 

Visiting Italy – Trip Planning Checklist

There's so much to see and do in Italy that you can visit again and again and still discover new sights. I recommend concentrating on the big 4 cities (Rome, Venice, Milan & Florence) if it's your first time and then coming back to explore either Northern Italy or Southern Italy in more depth.

Go |  Flight prices from the US to Italy are highly seasonal. You can set a fare alert here to be notified of discounts. Every fall & winter, I've seen great deals to Milan. One word of caution: avoid Alitalia at all costs!

Getting Around | A convenient way to explore Italy is via high speed train . You can search train schedules and book online here . Buy your tickets in advance to save on fares. Make sure to validate your ticket on the platform!

It also helps to speak a little Italian. Brush up on your Italian language skills with Rosetta Stone . You can take 10% off with promo code  CJBT10 .

Stay | Book hotels in advance to save, or check here for last minute deals . Many hotels in Italy are older so don't be surprised if even 5 star accommodation feels slightly dated. Opt for a room with a view instead of breakfast, as Italians don't eat breakfast in the same way Americans do and you'll probably be disappointed with their offering.

Alternatively, groups or budget travelers can check out Airbnb . 

Protect | Lastly, be sure to visit Italy with  travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most.

A rail strike occurred during our trip, unexpectedly shutting down transportation for an entire day. Get a quote for your Italy trip here .

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Such a beautiful place. Truly breathtaking.

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We are planning 5 days around the Florence area and 4 days further north – somewhere between Milan and Turin. What would you do with that? We definitely want to see Cinque Terre. We will be there from April 9 -18. Thanks.

Hi Carol – sounds like fun! There are tons of amazing places in Northern Italy to visit. You can check out this post for some ideas, or browse all my Italy articles here for more suggestions.

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Hi Sher informative articles on lakes area I read from your blog that you visited Isola Pescatori for dinner in a local restaurant . Do we need to make any reservation since you said it is a small island ? What is the cost of a decent seafood meal without wine ? is Euro 50 to 80 enough?

Also appreciate you suggestion where can we go before our hotel check in at 2:30 pm ? We stay at Baveno. We arrive in a mini coach of 12 people .

We plan for 3 Borromean islands tour the next day.Total stay is 3 nights THankks n advance Chee Meng

Hi Chee Meng, Yes it’d probably help to make a reservation especially if you’re visiting in the busy season. Your hotel or travel agent might be able to help you set it up? You can walk around town before check in time :)

fantastic post, full of useful information, I’m lucky because I live there and I can guarantee you that is wonderful, in my opinion better that Lake Como that is more crowd

Moreover, I will add this to the must see list: http://www.santacaterinadelsasso.com/

I do wish to visit Lake Maggiore sometime soon. Do you organize tours? Thanks.

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Villa taranto: gardens reopen from march 15, the 2024 season of the borromeo islands opens, bee sustainable: a new bee biomonitoring project in ossola, the montecrestese potato festival is now "sagra di qualità", reopening of the visconti castle of vogogna, stresa festival, exhibition "from canvas to frame - homage to cycling masters, conventions and meetings.

The beautiful countryside around Lake Maggiore offers peerless convention facilities. With its natural and artistic beauties boasts a long tradition in the meeting and convention hosting sector with many excellent venues and services, and unrivalled hospitality facilities. Quality, hospitality and the varied and beautiful scenery make it one of the preferred destinations for visitors from all around the world.

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A Local’s Guide To Lake Maggiore: 7 Places You Can’t Miss

• September 13, 2021

Often overlooked for the glamor of Lake Como or the playground of Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore is Italy’s serene older sister. Its art-deco towns and grand villas give the whole area a sophisticated, reserved air. The lake is a perfect summer destination, with its many beach clubs and hotels. But it also acts as a gateway to the Alps, offering active tourists and nature lovers a plethora of activities. These include hiking trails, bike paths, water sports and wellness activities both lakeside and in the surrounding wilderness.

Most of the towns on Lake Maggiore are served by trains to and from Milan . Stresa, Verbania, Laveno and Arona are all within 1.5 to 2 hours of Milan’s Centrale Railway station. Trenord also offers a Lake Maggiore package: whereby visitors can purchase a joint train/e-bike ticket to explore the lake. Once you’ve arrived, here are the 7 towns you can’t miss.

Once a crucial stop on the European Grand Tour, Stresa oozes old-world charm and sophistication. The winding, cobbled streets of this pretty Piedmonte town are full of chic boutiques, artisanal shops, and local produce. From the central square, you can cross Corso Umberto and be right on the boardwalk of the lake. Here, you can look out to Isola Bella and the Borromean Islands, which are just off the coast. 

Make sure you grab a coffee at Piazza Cadorna, where you’ll see the famously decorated houses that rise up from the tree-lined street. For lunch, head over to Ristorante Stornello and ask for a table outside. This minimalist restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine and caters to vegan and gluten-free diets. 

Don’t miss a quick visit to Parco Pallavicino . This stately home and garden in Stresa became an exceptional zoological park in the 20th century. Today, the park is home to over 50 species of animals, including zebras, kangaroos, cranes, and flamingos.

Where to stay: The belle époque Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees in Stresa has been hosting guests for 150 years. With a spa offering a range of weeklong wellness programs, it’s perfect for anyone in need of a recharge. There are also three swimming pools and a lake-side garden adorned with important works of art.

2. The Borromean Islands

Off the coast of Stresa lies the so-called “Eden of Italy.” This beautiful area includes the three idyllic islands of Isola Bella, Isole dei Pescatori and Isole Madre. Originally home to the aristocratic Borromeo family, the gulf is a veritable wonderland full of candy-colored houses, old-school restaurants, and awe-inspiring views of the lake. The islands are so impressive that the French poet Montesquieu described them as “the most beautiful place in the world, a place made by fairies.”

Isola Bella is the masterpiece of the gulf. Home to the family’s opulent villa and landscaped gardens, the property is accessible to the public from March-November. Built in the 17th century by Vitaliano Borromeo VI, the island quickly grew from a small pile of rocks into a palatial villa and panoramic gardens, it is now a member of the Great Italian Gardens association. Stroll through the glittering rooms of the palace which have hosted historical figures such as Napoleon, Mussolini, and Princess Diana before making your way to the Teatro Massimo, the sunken Baroque garden at the back of the island. 

All boat tours will take you to all three islands so make sure you don’t skip Pescatori or Madre. If you want to stay the night, Isola dei Pescatori has three hotels and a multitude of restaurants nestled in its winding streets. Each of the islands is a five-minute boat ride from the other, and it only takes 10 minutes to get back to the mainland. Horticulturalists shouldn’t miss visiting Isola Madre, home to plants from all over the world. Thanks to its unique microclimate, the fauna is protected by the warmer waters of the lake.

Where to stay: On Isola dei Pescatori, the hotel and restaurant Belvedere offers bright rooms and suites with panoramic terraces overlooking the lake.

3. Verbania

Verbania is the largest town on the lake and not overrun with tourists, even during high season. A walk along the lakefront is a must in the early morning. Along the lakeside promenade, you’ll also find a cycling and running track that you can follow along the water or up into the hills.

Just up from the town, lies Villa Taranto and its botanical gardens. It was acquired in 1931 by Scottish naval captain Neil McEachern. He planted more than 3,000 plant species from all over the world, including 300 varieties of dahlias. Its verdant greenhouses, winding trails, and broad lawn sloping down to the lake offer spectacular views in every direction.

While the house of Villa Taranto isn’t open to the public, country house fans won’t be disappointed as Villa Giulia, just south of Taranto, is another spectacular property. This neoclassical building is complete with a corinthian façade and a sprawling art collection. Make sure to check the website as there are regular shows, exhibitions, and events organized at the villa throughout the year. 

In the evening head over to Ristorante Milano , situated in the horseshoe-shaped harbor. Chef Agostino Sala cooks up innovative Italian cuisine served on a few scattered tables on the lawn. 

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel Majestic is a renovated villa resting on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It was built in 1870 and features a palatial façade, large rooms, and delightful English-style gardens. Sit in the tranquil, flower-scented gardens and gaze across the lake to the Borromeo Islands and the distant mountains.

A southerly stop on the Piedmonte side of the lake is Arona. Much like Stresa, this quaint medieval town is lively and buzzing with weekend flowers, farmers’, and vintage markets. 

Overlooking the town is the imposing bronze statue of Saint Carlo Borromeo . Once the Cardinal of Milan, Saint Carlos was also the patriarch of the Borromeo presence in the area. The statue was actually a blueprint for the Statue of Liberty! Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, who designed Lady Liberty, stayed in Arona in order to study the statue’s structure. A plaque can be found at the foot of the Statue of Liberty commemorating the inspiration given by the ‘Sancarlone’ – now no longer the largest statue in the world. Visitors can climb the 35m to the top of the Saint’s head and take in the views of the lake.

Arona is also a great place to take a boat to the town of Angera where you can visit the Borromeo family’s imposing fortress. The spectacular Rocca di Angera is an accumulation of five different constructions, built between the 11th and 17th centuries. Inside, you can see the 12-room Museo della Bambola, displaying the Borromeo family’s invaluable collection of dolls. You can also visit the vineyards which hug the slopes surrounding the fortress. 

5. Laveno Mombello

Boasting a spectacular view of the lake, a vibrant food scene, and excellent hiking trails, Laveno has long been a weekend destination for the Milanese. Its train station is 200m from the lakefront, giving you a breathtaking view the moment you step onto the platform. 

On arrival, head over to Come e Casa , a family-run restaurant that prides itself on its Slow Food menu. Fill up on a plate of pasta with local porcini mushrooms and red wine, before you head into the hills to hike the Sasso del Ferro mountain. The 5km trail is suitable for all hikers and takes you up through the beautiful countryside. Past grand villas and verdant gardens, this trail eventually arrives at the Ristorante Funivia , which offers spectacular views of Lake Maggiore and the Alps beyond. A cable car also whisks less energetic travelers up and down to the restaurant and Sasso del Ferro peak (1062m). 

Once you return to town, take a five-minute walk to the harbor area where Café Vela , a chic little eatery and bar, offers tables right on the water. Here you can enjoy a spritz with a sunset. 

Where to stay : Lake Maggiore is famous for its artisanal ceramics trade, and you’ll see boutiques in every town selling earthenware. The boutique Hotel de Charme in Laveno honors this tradition, occupying the old industrial plant that reaches the shoreline. It boasts lush gardens, bright open rooms, and a spectacular rooftop swimming pool. You can also stay at Hotel Funivia , at the top of the mountain of Sasso del Ferro, its 14 rooms offer some of the best views the Italian lakes have to offer.

6. Santa Caterina del Sasso

This 14th-century hermitage, located 3km down-shore from Laveno, is only accessible by boat or by descending 200 steps into the rock face but this destination is well worth the effort. According to legend, the hermitage was founded when local Merchant Alberto Besozzi found himself trapped in a storm while crossing the lake in 1170. He prayed to Saint Caterina of Alessandria and promised that if she saved him, he would devote his life to her service. Upon waking up on the shore, he became a hermit and began to build the monastery.

Today, the Santa Caterina del Sasso monastery dramatically clings to the rockface over the lake and is home to a stunning baroque church, medieval porticos, and a bell tower. The remains of Besozzi are in a glass-topped coffin in the church: he never left and was sustained for the rest of his life by local fishermen.

7. Sesto Calende

Located right at the bottom of the lake, Sesto Calende is a pretty town with great lidos and fun spots for an aperitivo. If you decide to rent a boat, you can sail down Lake Maggiore and set up for the night here. This town also offers plenty of camping spots for travelers who want to sleep out under the stars next to the lake. 

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14 Top Attractions & Things to Do at Lake Maggiore

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Lying north of Milan, Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore) stretches for about 65 kilometers, reaching into the Ticino region of Switzerland . Despite its name ("maggiore" means "major"), it is only the second largest of northern Italy's lakes . Its most popular attractions are on the western shore, where the magnificent Borromean Islands , with their subtropical parks, draw the most tourists.

The trees of Lake Maggiore include a number of subtropical species: figs, olives, and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate, and several splendid show gardens are open to visitors. These gardens, boat excursions, and basking in the holiday ambience of lakeside towns are the most popular things to do on Lake Maggiore.

Regular boat services connect the various lake towns. But as several of the most popular attractions are not close to a boat stop, a car is the best way to explore the entire lake. A car ferry across the center of the lake makes this even easier. Another benefit of having a car here is the ease of taking a day trip to Lake Orta , a beautiful and little-known lake with an island you can visit by boat.

Plan your sightseeing in this beautiful area with our list of the top attractions and things to do around Lake Maggiore.

See also: Where to Stay in Lake Maggiore

1. Tour Isola Bella

2. visit villa taranto, 3. take a boat trip on lake maggiore, 4. isola madre, 5. eremo di santa caterina del sasso (hermitage of st catherine) and laveno, 6. wander around isola dei pescatori, 7. rocca d'angera, 9. villa pallavicino, 10. cannobio and cannero riviera, 11. san carlone (san carlo borromeo statue), 12. lake orta, 13. take a boat to the gardens of isole di brissago, 14. visit ascona, where to stay around lake maggiore for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do at lake maggiore.

The Borromean Islands lie off Stresa, where boats leave regularly for all three islands, stopping first at Isola Bella, where between 1650 and 1671, Count Vitaliano Borromeo built up terraces and created a splendid summer palace. You can tour its magnificent state apartments, highlighted by the ornate Salone Grande; the domed Salone delle Feste; the Sala da Ballo (Ballroom); and the Sala della Musica, filled with rare musical instruments.

Below are six grottoes, artificial caves whose walls are encrusted with shells and pebbles. Sumptuous furnishings and collections of 17th-century Flemish tapestries and Lombard paintings of the 16th and 17th centuries decorate the palace.

But for most visitors, the most impressive part of Isola Bella is the Italian-style garden, rising in ten terraces to a height of 32 meters and covered with luxuriant southern vegetation. Rows of lemon and orange trees, cherry-laurels, tall cedars, magnolias, cork-oaks, sago-palms, carob-trees, camellias, and oleanders frame beautiful lake and mountain views, and parterres of brilliant flowers cover the ground supported by the stone terraces.

On a Lake Maggiore Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry Tour from Stresa, you can leave Stresa and return on your own schedule, spending as much time exploring the palace and gardens as you like.

One of Italy's most beautiful gardens , the lovely park of the Villa Taranto was created after the Second World War by a retired Scottish army officer, a botanist who collected plants from around the world to grow in this English landscape-style garden park.

More than 20,000 plant varieties — flowers, trees, shrubs, and water plants — native to this region and to places as distant as the Amazon rainforests thrive in this beautiful setting overlooking lake views, making Villa Taranto one of the most popular places to visit on Lake Maggiore.

Highlights of the gardens are the Dahlia Maze , with more than 1,700 plants in bloom, and the Paraguayan waterlilies, whose leaves can be nearly two meters in diameter. Another water feature is a pond filled with lotus, their leaves rising more than a meter above the water's surface.

Dedicated plant lovers should stop in the Herbarium in the charming porter's lodge, where dozens of cabinets display plants native to the British Isles.

Address: Via Vittorio Veneto, Verbania

The best views of many of the attractions along the shore of Lake Maggiore are from the water, so you'll want to take at least one trip by boat. Steamers, hydrofoils (corse rapide), and car ferries (traghetti) connect the Italian shore towns frequently, operated by Navigazione Lago Maggiore.

Along with the regular service between towns, there are several excursions from late March through mid-October. These include one from Laveno to Verbania and the three Borromean Islands, returning to Laveno. This is a good way for tourists staying on the west side of the lake to combine a scenic cruise with visiting the three islands, without having to drive around the lake.

A cruise is also an easy way to visit the northern part of the lake, where Maggiore narrows scenically between steep mountainsides. The northernmost of Lake Maggiore's shore towns are in the Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland. Only three daily boats travel from the southern towns to northernmost Locarno, but more frequent boats leave from Luino, at the middle of Maggiore's eastern shore.

Like Isola Bella, Isola Madre belongs to the Borromeo family. The island has beautiful English-style grounds surpassing even Isola Bella in the variety and luxuriance of their plants, although by the nature of a landscape garden, they are less dramatic and more designed for strolling and appreciating the lake views at leisure. They are especially beautiful in the spring and early summer when the azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias are in bloom.

The villa is far less flamboyant than the palace on Isola Bella, and is particularly interesting for its collection of marionettes and stage scenery for puppet shows, as well as 17th-century paintings and porcelain.

The best views of the beautiful 13th-century hermitage and church dedicated to St. Catharine are as you approach from the lake. From this vantage, you can fully appreciate how the three buildings are carved into a narrow terrace in the steep cliff.

The hermitage was founded by a merchant who was shipwrecked in a storm and took refuge in a cave. In thanksgiving for being saved he vowed a hermitage to St. Catherine, and in 1195 built a tiny church. The oldest of the buildings you see today date from a century later, when it was home to Augustinian monks, and from the 14th and 15th centuries.

The 14th-century bell tower seems to rise straight out the lake. If you arrive by boat, prepare to climb the 80 steps to the hermitage, and be careful to take an early boat that allows you time to see it before the entire complex closes, from noon until 2pm. If you arrive by car, you can avoid the 240 steps down to the hermitage and back by riding an elevator (which also closes for midday).

The hermitage is south of Laveno, a town that's worth a stop to ride the Funivia , an unusual bucket gondola, to within 100 meters of the summit of 1,000-meter Sasso del Ferro . The two-person cars are open — you stand in a cosy bucket for the open-air ride; at the top is a terrace and café, along with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.

Not far west of Laveno is the Villa della Porta Bozzolo , an aristocratic home dating from the 1500s. Along with its sumptuous interior and original furnishings, the villa is set against a hillside of terraced gardens, with fountains and frescoed out buildings.

Unlike the other two Borromean Islands, Isola dei Pescatori has no grand palace, villa, or gardens. Instead, it is a simple fishing village of homes built along its highest point, their doorways facing inward along a narrow street so spring and autumn high lake waters won't flood them. About 50 year-round residents come and go by boat, and some families still make their living by fishing.

It's a pleasant and atmospheric place to wander, and its few restaurants specialize in lake fish. Be there for lunch or ask which of these provides free boat service from the mainland if you'd like to return in the evening to dine on the terrace by sunset.

Rocca d'Angera, the Borromeo castle overlooking the lake at Angera, is a medieval fortified stronghold whose structure has been preserved almost intact. The castle was originally built by the Visconti family, rulers of Milan from 1277 to 1447, and frescoes in the Sala della Giustizia show Ottone Visconti's victory over Napo Torriani in 1277.

Inside is one of Europe's best collections of dolls and children's toys, with 12 rooms displaying more than 1,000 dolls, toys, board games, and children's books. Dolls represent all periods of history and are made from every imaginable material, from wax to plastic. A beautiful medieval garden has been recreated from information in original manuscripts.

Address: Rocca d'Angera, Angera

On the west side of Lake Maggiore, south of its western arm, the chic little town of Stresa looks onto the Borromean Islands . Stresa is the largest resort town on the Italian part of the lake and tends to cater to a moneyed crowd with its smart shops, upscale restaurants, and posh hotels.

The lakeside promenade, where much of tourist life centers, offers beautiful views across to the islands. If you're looking for the best places to go shopping in Stresa, look in the streets off Piazza Giocomo Matteotti, near the tourist information office.

Walkers looking for something more challenging than promenading along the lakeshore can hike the six-mile Chestnut Trail (Sentiero delle Castagne) through shady chestnut groves from Stresa to Belgirate. You can return to Stresa by bus or boat; download a trail map from the Visit Stresa website.

From its dramatic entrance view of cypress trees carved into a row of arches, Villa Pallavicino is filled with surprises.

A combination of botanical garden and zoo, the park is beautifully landscaped into a natural amphitheater surrounding a villa. Magnolia trees; sequoia; an impressive Lebanon cedar; and manicured lawns bordered by rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas cover the grounds.

Greenhouses hold more exotic species. In the natural environment, animals appear to be roaming free, and you can encounter llamas, zebra, Tibetan goats, flamingos, swans, and colorful parrots — more than 40 different species — as you wander through the park. This variety of exotic animals makes this one of the most popular things to do for families with young children.

Address: Via Sempione 61, Stresa

On the west shore of Lake Maggiore, almost to the Swiss border, Cannobio sits on a small plateau at the mouth of the Valle Cannobina. Its old town has picturesque narrow streets and a Palazzo della Ragione (town hall) built in 1291.

Near the landing-stage for lake excursion boats is the Santuario della Pietà , a Renaissance church that houses a small picture with a number of miracles attributed to it. On the high altar is a 16th-century painting, Christ Bearing the Cross, by Gaudenzio Ferrari.

Follow the valley, Valle Cannobina , to find the Orido Sant'Anna, a deep gorge that's spanned by a stone arch bridge. You can also walk there on a trail from Cannobio. A pretty chapel overlooks the bridge, and the pool below is a popular (if cold) spot for swimming.

Just south of Cannobio is one of the prettiest towns on Lake Maggiore, Cannero Riviera, sitting amid orchards and olive-groves. The climate here is the mildest on the lake, and lemon and orange trees can survive the winter outdoors. There is a beautiful beach, rare on the lake, and a pleasant promenade along the lakefront.

Just offshore, on rocky islets in the lake, are the ruins of the two Castelli di Cannero , castles built by Lodovico Borromeo in 1519 replacing earlier castles, which had been held by lake pirates. This is a quiet, peaceful choice for a base while exploring the lake, with a few small hotels, outdoor cafés, and great restaurants.

Just north of Arona, near the village of Meina, a low hill is crowned by a 23-meter statue of St. Charles Borromeo (1538-84), Cardinal-Archbishop of Milan, who played an important part in the moral revival of Catholicism in northern Italy. He was born in Arona.

This gigantic statue, made of sheets of hammered copper bolted together, was erected between 1614 and 1698, shortly after the cardinal's canonization. One of the most unusual things to do on Lake Maggiore is to inspect the interior and look at the world through the eyes of a saint — literally — by climbing the stairway inside the statue. Up to six people can fit into its head alone.

Address: Piazzale San Carlo, Arona Novara

On the west side of Monte Mottarone , little Lake Orta is overlooked by most tourists visiting the Italian lakes region, which only increases its appeal. The picture-perfect medieval town of Orta San Giulio tumbles down the steep wooded shore to Piazza Motta , where you can (and should) take a boat to the tiny island of Isola San Giulio in the lake's center.

Moss-covered stone buildings surround the island's 12th-century Basilica di San Giulio, built by the saint who, according to local legend, drove the snakes off the island. Be sure to see the frescoes and the beautifully carved marble pulpit, then follow the stone-paved Way of Silence between the island's old buildings.

On the forested hillside above Orta San Giulio is one of the nine Sacri Monti, mountainside sanctuaries unique to this region and that have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This one is composed of 20 chapels holding terra-cotta statues that portray scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi.

Just north of the Italian-Swiss border off the western shore of Lake Maggiore, the two small islands of Brissago are easy to reach by a short boat ride from the village of Ronco. The larger island is covered in a botanical garden of 1,500 exotic plant species native to subtropical regions of Asia, South Africa, and the Americas.

Plants from these milder climates can thrive here because of the lake's moderating influence. The gardens were originally the work of Baroness Antonietta Saint Leger, who began planting her collection here is 1885. The work was continued in the 1920s, when the villa was built.

The guided sightseeing tour, included with entry, relates the history of the gardens and stories about the plants. If you're traveling with children, they will want to follow the free map on a treasure hunt for lost flowers. Stay for lunch on the terrace of the villa, overlooking the gardens and lake.

Once a modest fishing village, the Swiss town of Ascona, a little north of Ronco on Maggiore's western shore, is now a smart resort filled with high-end shops. Colorful buildings line the lakeside, overlooking the harbor filed with small craft.

Worth seeing are the 17th-century Casa Borrani with its elaborate Baroque facade, and the magnificent courtyard of the 16 th -century Collegio Pontificio Papio .

On the hill high above the lake, you can visit the grounds and buildings of the Utopian community of Monte Verità , which thrived here in the early 20 th century. The community attracted residents as diverse as artist Paul Klee, author DH Lawrence, and Nobel Prize-winning poet/novelist Hermann Hesse; a museum tells its story.

Along with the Jugendstil (Swiss Art Nouveau) villa and the Bauhaus-style hotel designed by Mies van der Rohe, Monte Verità's prime attraction is the 1939 Elisarion Pavilion , a rotunda built to house the cyclorama The Clear World of the Blissful , painted between 1919 and 1929.

We recommend these charming hotels around the shores of Lake Maggiore:

• One of the most beautiful places to stay on Lake Maggiore is the elegant villa of Il Sole Di Ranco , on the eastern lakeshore and only 14 miles from Milan's Malpensa International Airport, making it a good place to relax on arrival before touring the lake's attractions. Luxurious rooms with original decorative features overlook the lake from private balconies, and the restaurant is one of the region's finest.
• The luxury lakefront Hotel Splendid in Baveno has large elegantly decorated rooms, an outdoor pool, and its own private beach.
• Generous-sized rooms at the budget Hotel Alpi feature lake-view balconies and air conditioning. Breakfast and parking are complimentary, or you can arrive in Baveno by train; the station is 400 meters from the hotel.
• At the quieter northern end of the lake, Hotel Cannobio is close to one of the lake's rare beaches, making it a good place to stay for families. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk, and breakfast is included.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit near Lake Maggiore: The splendid gardens at Isola Bella and Villa Taranto may whet your appetite for more beautiful gardens overlooking lake and mountain views. If so, the gardens and villas of Lake Como are not far away. The northern part of Lake Maggiore extends into the Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland, and our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lugano, Locarno, and the Ticino Region will give you ideas of what to see and do here.

Exploring Milan and its Surroundings: The economic and commercial capital of Italy is just south of Lake Maggiore, and you'll find several PlanetWare articles helpful if you plan to visit Milan and its tourist attractions. Top-Rated Day Trips from Milan suggests other places you can travel from a base in the city.

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Europe , Italy , PIEDMONTE , Switzerland , TICINO · July 1, 2023

The 12 Very Best Places To Visit In Lake Maggiore

Are you currently trying to plan an epic holiday to the spectacular Lake Maggiore and not sure which are the absolute best places that you should visit ? Well, this article has got you fully covered!

We just spent an amazing few days at one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes and I’m here to spill the beans!

From the prettiest towns on Lake Maggiore to the best things to do at Lake Maggiore . All of the information that you’ll need for an incredible vacation at Lake Maggiore will be covered in this article.

If you’ve read other blog posts of mine you know that I am a very efficient traveler and that I love to see as many places as possible in the short time that I sometimes have to visit a region.

Lake Maggiore, also known als Lago Maggiore, is often overlooked for the more opulent Lake Como. But this also means that it’s a lot more quiet and its hidden gems still feel authentic and not over saturated by tourists.

Lake Maggiore is located in Northern Italy , but what a lot if people don’t realize is that the Northern part of the famous lake is actually located in the Ticino province of Switzerland .

In this article you’ll find the best places to visit at Lake Maggiore and some insider tips to help plan your holiday even better!

Among the best places to visit in Lake Maggiore you’ll find all of what the region has to offer. From harbor towns next to the crystal clear water to Italian gardens and palazzo’s and some incredible hidden gems that we stumbled upon along the way.

I honestly don’t understand why Lake Maggiore is often overlooked for both Lake Como and Lake Garda . During the weekends it does attract its fair share of visitors but they mostly go to the areas of Stresa, Locarno or Verbania.

Even when doing my research for my own trip I found it hard to find some decent information. Literally every website was telling me the same thing and only covered the most touristic places. So we pretty much just drove around the entire coastline and tried to stop at every single place that felt like it would be a good fit for this Lake Maggiore travel guide .

How to get around Lake Maggiore

The best way to get around Lake Maggiore is to simply  rent a car .

🚘 I always use  SunnyCars  when booking a rental car cause their company policy makes me feel the most at ease.

There’s  never any hidden costs  with them and free  cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start . Their price is transparent and everything is included. So no worries about any extra costs when you pick up your rental.  You won’t need any extra insurance cause its all covered in the original price.

💡  TIP  – The following parking rules in Italy are a must to know if you don’t want to risk getting fined:

• Blue lines: You can park your car here but need to pay.
• White lines: Free parking where you’re allowed to park.
• Yellow lines: Only locals can park here.

I suggest picking up your rental car from Milan . If you’re arriving by plane chances will be very high you’ll fly into Milan and from there it’s only an hour driving. Especially if you’re flying to Milano Malpensa.

Where to stay at Lake Maggiore as a base

We decided to stay in Ascona , which is on the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore. This way we were able to explore both Ticino as the area around Lake Maggiore.

So if this is something you would like to do as well I highly recommend staying in Ascona. We stayed at Vista Lakefront Boutique Hotel , which is located at the waterfront and offers rooms with a balcony overlooking Lake Maggiore. Both breakfast and dinner are served overlooking the glistening water and the perfect spot for some people watching.

If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option then you should stay in the small Italian harbor town of Cannobio . Stay at Hotel Cannobio and have breakfast on your typical Italian balcony overlooking Lake Maggiore. Compared to the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore, its Italian counterpart is a lot cheaper when it comes to dining out.

If you’re looking for a hotel that radiates the true opulence of an Italian Palazzo then you have to book a room at the incredible Hotel Villa e Palazzo Aminta in Stresa . I stayed in this exact hotel with my mom when I was younger and literally everything about it is lavish.

The most beautiful places to visit around Lake Maggiore

1. ascona, a charming swiss village at lake maggiore.

The picturesque Swiss town of Ascona was our base for visiting both Lake Maggiore and the region of Ticino in Switzerland.

Ascona is often referred to as “The Pearl of Lake Maggiore” and when you’re walking along the waterfront it’s not hard to see why. One of the most romantic things to do here is to simply walk along the Lake Promenade . The scenery is beautiful, and you can see all the colorful houses, elegant villas, lush hills, and mountains.

The Italian architecture stands out the most, making this one the prettiest Swiss towns to visit . The buildings in Ascona, such as restaurants, hotels, houses, and villas are painted in bright colors which resemble Venice or Burano . 

💡  TIP  – Have dinner at La Curt Bandida and drinks at the local wine bar in Vicolo delle Olive.

🚘  PARKING – Park your car at Autosilo al Lago and you’ll only be 5 minutes walking from the Lake Promenade of Ascona. Through Vista Lakefront Boutique Hotel we were able to get a parking card for 15 CHF/day.

2. Madonna del Sasso, the best place to visit in Locarno

Locarno is another charming town located on the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore. The Madonna del Sasso is a pilgrimage church in Orselina , located right above Locarno.

The sanctuary is linked to Locarno city centre by the  Locarno–Madonna del Sasso funicular . Easily one of the most iconic religious sites in the Canton of Ticino, the current sanctuary dates back to the 16th-century.

Today, the sanctuary and place of pilgrimage are open to the public for free on a daily basis.

Opening hours – 7am to 6.30pm

From here you’ll have one of the best views over Lago di Maggiore and the underlying town of Locarno.

3. Cannobio, one of the top places to visit around Lake Maggiore

Cannobio is a picture-perfect lakeside town on the Western shores of Lake Maggiore . Not far from the Swiss border and situated in the region of Piedmont.

One of the best things to do in Cannobio is to make your way from the main Piazza Vittorio Emanuele III , along the waterfront promenade. The pastel colored houses are lined with flowers and all of their terraces are inviting you for some Aperol Spritz and bruschetta.

What’s especially fun about Cannobio is that there’s a lido at the very end of the town. When you reach the end of the lakeside path, you’ll discover one of the few sandy beaches on Lake Maggiore .

Another fun thing to do in Cannobio is to rent one of the boats to go out on the lake. No boating license needed.

💡  TIP – Have dinner at Pizzeria Eraora and make sure to try their freshly made pasta pesto with burrata. They also made a delicious non alcoholic cocktail for me!

🚘  PARKING – Park your car at the Lido Beach parking lot for free parking in Cannobio.

4. Isole di Brissago

Marooned in the glimmering waters of Lake Maggiore, this tiny pair of islands is famous for its botanic gardens designed in the 19th century. Magnolias, orchids, yuccas and agaves are among the 1700 species that flourish here.

The Brissago Islands are a group of two small islands in Lago Maggiore, Switzerland. Only the larger island is open to the public , and it’s home to a wonderful botanical garden that attracts more than 90,000 visitors every year.

To reach the Brissago Islands you’ll have to travel by boat , which only operate from April to early November. It’s possible to travel by boat from most towns on the lake shore, but the travel times vary depending on where you depart from. It takes about 45 minutes to get to Brissago Islands from Locarno, but just 15 minutes from Ascona .

Entrance fee – 8 CHF

Opening hours – From 9am to 6pm

💡  TIP – There’s only one restaurant one the island but it’s s food is pretty shitty so I don’t recommend eating here. Better to simply bring a picnic with you when visiting.

5. Cannero Riviera, a hidden gem at Lake Maggiore

The lakeside village of Cannero Riviera is located in the  Verbano Cusio Ossola Province , on the shores of  Lake Maggiore .

The main activity at Cannero Riviera is to follow the promenade along the lake . As well as attractive views across Lake Maggiore, there are also several impressive villas along the path. Unlike many towns, the promenade here is simply a path along the water, there are not many cafes and restaurants.

If you’re walking north, after a few hundred meters you’ll reach a small port. This is the Vecchio Porto di Cannero and the main reason I suggest you visit the town. Although not very big,it’s very picturesque and still a true hidden gem at Lake Maggiore.

On a small island in the lake to the west of the old port you can see the Castle of Cannero. Although the castle can not be visited, it adds interest to the view of the lake.

🚘  PARKING – Park your car at Parking Cannero so you’re right next to the promenade.

6. Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto, one of the top things to do in Lake Maggiore

The beautiful Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto is located in Verbania along the coast of Lago di Maggiore. Behind the entrance gates you’ll find a free parking lot, a ticket office, restrooms and a terrace where you can order something to drink or eat.

Entrance fee – €12. Children from 0 to 5 years are free to enter.

Opening hours – 9am to 7pm

It is possible to visit the garden with wheelchairs, following a path marked by signs.

🎫 Lake Maggiore: Gardens, Lake Cruise, & Gourmet Food Tasting – Explore and discover the beauty of Lake Maggiore and the Villa Taranto botanical gardens with 1-day hop-on hop-off ticket. Taste delicious regional cheeses and cold cuts accompanied by quality wines.

Strolling through the garden will take around 1.5 hour to see it all and to take some photos.

7. Stresa, the most famous town on Lake Maggiore

Stresa is most known for its islands Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori and as a one of the main tourist destinations around Lake Maggiore . So don’t expect a quaint little fishing town with colorful houses. Instead you’ll be greeted by opulent hotels that still exude the grandeur of past elegance.

Stresa is about 1,5 hour driving from Milan and if you’re looking for one of the more scenic places to stay on Lake Maggiore I highly recommend booking a room at Hotel Villa e Palazzo Aminta . Their rooms offer a magnificent view over the lake and the Borromeo islands.

Stresa really began to be known as a tourist destination worldwide from the 19th century onwards . The wealthy British upper class enjoyed Stresa as a rest stop on their ‘Grand Tour’ after visiting the wonders of Rome, Florence, and Venice and before heading on to Switzerland.

But the main draw to Stresa are without a doubt the Borromean islands. All 3 can be visited in a single day and are only a short boat ride away.

💡 TIP – We booked our boat ride on the spot with CMV for €15 per person to visit two islands and transport back to Stresa.

🚘  PARKING – Park your car at Parcheggio Piazza Marconi , which is right in front of the Stresa Ferry Terminal. A bit further down the road you’ll also find some free parking spots but these tend to fill up super fast.

8. Isola Bella, the most famous Borromean Island

Isola Bella is by far the most popular one of the Borromean Islands and you can already admire it from the lake promenade in Stresa.

However, a visit to Lake Maggiore is not complete with a visit to the stunning Isola Bella ! Exploring Isola Bella truly is an amazing experience. Even if you’re staying in Milan it’s definitely worth the day trip and the 1.5 hour drive from the city centre.

The palace, Palazzo Borromeo , is fascinating, encapsulating 400 years of family history, as well as its incredible portrait gallery and its gardens, some of the most spectacular ones in Italy. 

You’ll start your visit by entering the palace. I was completely mesmerized by the grandeur of all the incredible rooms, their art collection and the views over Lake Maggiore from the windows and balconies.

But once you enter the gardens the true show begins. I’ve seen many beautiful gardens in my life but the one at Isola Bella takes the cake for sure . And if you’re lucky you’ll bump into the family of white peacocks that resides in the gardens.

Entrance fee – €20 for adults and €11 for children. You can buy your ticket directly at the cashier but you can also buy it online so you can skip the line.

Opening hours – 10am to 6.30pm. Do know that the palace and gardens are closed during the winter season. Isola Bella is typically open from mid-March through October .

9. Isola Madre, one of the best things to do at Lake Maggiore

Isola Madre couldn’t be more different from Isola Bella and exudes a more understated chique in its palace and gardens.

Isola Madre. isthe most northern of the Borromean Islands and is also the biggest out of all 3 . Historically the island was also called the Isola di San Vittore and the Isole Maggiore.

Unlike the other Borromean islands, as soon as you disembark from the ferry you are at the ticket office for the palace, so there is little point coming unless you plan to pay to enter…there is nowhere else to go on the island.

Entrance fee – €17. You can buy your ticket directly at the cashier but you can also buy it online so you can skip the line.

Opening hours – 10am to 6.30pm. Do know that the palace and gardens are closed during the winter season. Isola Madre is typically open from mid-March through October .

💡 TIP – Visiting the Borromean Islands requires a lot of walking. If you’re feeling a little tired go straight up the stairs after the entrance so you skip the part where you simply walk around the edge of the island without missing a thing of the gardens.

10. Isola Pescatori, one of the best places to visit on Lake Maggiore

Isola dei Pescatori is part of the group of Borromean Islands in Lake Maggiore, in northern Italy.

While the other two important Borromean Islands – Isola Bella and Isola Madre – are occupied by grand villas and gardens, the Isola dei Pescatori is largely covered by a village . The name of the island, ‘Pescatori’, is the Italian for ‘fishermen’.

Despite the size of the village, there are only about 20 full time residents on the island. The island is now largely dedicated to tourism, although a small amount of fishing still takes place. Many of the houses are now guest houses, holiday rentals and holiday homes.

Around the harbor there are several cafes and restaurants, and sometimes a small market. There are just two main streets in the village , Via Ugo Ara and Via del Porto, which are both very narrow paved streets and then small side streets that lead to the edge of the island. The streets contain lots of small shops and cafes.

11. Gambarogno Riviera, colorful towns on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore

The Riviera del Gambarogno is a world of its own. The eastern shore of Lake Maggiore boasts the typical charm of towns that look right out over the lake: villages full of colourful houses, cobbled streets, flowerbeds, a road that runs along the lake shore all the way to Italy and the blessing of the sun.

The shores of Gambarogno are particularly popular for their secluded beaches and lidos in the towns along the riviera , which look out over a stunning lake on which you can try your hand at countless water sports.

12. Santa Caterina del Sasso, a hidden gem on Lake Maggiore

There are two ways to visit Santa Caterina del Sasso. You can go by car and then walk down the stairs to reach the beautiful monastery or you can choose to arrive by boat which will grant you spectacular views.

Which way you choose will mostly depend on where you’re staying around Lake Maggiore. If you’re staying on the eastern side you can choose to visit Santa Caterina del Sasso by car and then hop on a ferry to either Stresa or Arona. But of course you can also do it the other way around. The ferry departs from Stresa and Arona on a daily basis and takes about 15 minutes .

Entrance fee – €5 and an additional €1 if you want to use the elevator.

Opening hours – From 9.30am to 7.30pm

🎫 Lake Maggiore: luxury 1-Day private experience – Lake Maggiore: luxury 1-Day private experience Ful day private guided cruise to Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori and Santa Caterina del Sasso. Meals are included.

Is Lago Maggiore worth visiting?

Lake Maggiore is definitely worth visiting! As you can see from the above listed best places to visit at Lake Maggiore there’s something to see and do for everyone . Wether you want to spend your days exploring the history of the Borromean Islands, go hiking in the mountains or simply relax by the waterfront.

There’s some truly incredible architecture to be found around Lake Maggiore, as well as stunning botanical gardens, exquisite restaurants for foodies and a very laid back vibe.

And did I already mention that Lake Maggiore still holds on to its original and authentic charm and isn’t completely overrun yet by tourists compared to Lake Garda and Lake Como?

All rights reserved © Charlies Wanderings. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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Lake Maggiore Travel Guide

Top places to go and things to do.

Lake Maggiore, west of Lake Como , is Italy’s second-largest lake. Lake Maggiore is a long, narrow lake with more than 90 miles of shoreline that sits in a beautiful setting in the Alps, making it an ideal location from which to explore the parks and mountains. With a fairly mild climate and year-round activities, it’s a good place to visit almost any time of the year.

Photos by author Susan Van Allen who leads Golden Weeks in Italy for women. See Susan Van Allen’s Italy .

• Stresa is the town best set up for tourism. It has many restaurants and shops, a train station and harbor with excursion boats, hydrofoils, and ferries to the Borromean islands and towns around the lake. Along the lake is a walking path with gardens and Belle Epoque mansions. Isola Bella is 10 minutes by boat from Stresa and from town there are great views of the island. Villa Pallavicino, an easy walk along the lake shore from Stresa, has a large zoological park with botanical gardens and more than 40 animal species.

Susan Van Allen recommends staying at the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées where she stays with her groups or the more economical Hotel Elena , a family-run 1-star hotel in the center of town with big, simple rooms with balconies. She also says, “the Sky Bar at Hotel La Palma is a must at sunset”.

Top Places to Go on Lake Maggiore

• The Borromean Islands , three picturesque islands and two islets between Stresa and Verbania, make up one of the lake’s main tourist attractions. Isola Madre , the largest of the islands, has a large park with English-style botanical gardens with more than 2000 plant species and the royal Borromeo Palace. Isola Bella has beautiful Italian gardens, a Baroque palace with 20 rooms of art works, and a few restaurants. These two islands are closed to the public from November through mid-March. Isola Superiore (also called Isola dei Pescatori ), the only island still inhabited, has a traditional fishing village as well as shops and good fish restaurants. The islands can be reached by ferry from Stresa, Verbania, Baveno, and Arona.

Where to Stay on Isola dei Pescatori : Hotel Belvedere and Villa Toscanini both have a lake front restaurant and rooms with lake views.

• Arona , on the southwestern shore, is the first town reached on the train line from Milan. Arona has ferries to other towns and shops and restaurants. The Rocca di Arona sits on the cliffs above town and has a public park that attracts ducks and peacocks and good lake views. We stayed at Hotel Giardino in town near the lake and a short distance from the train station.
• Baveno , also on the train line, has beautiful mansions lining the lakefront. The 19th century Villa Henfrey-Bianca was built in the style of an English castle. Where to Stay in Baveno: Grand Hotel Dino is a lake front hotel near the ferry dock with a private beach, gardens, wellness center, and 2 swimming pools. Hotel Splendid is a lake front hotel with private beach and swimming pool.
• Verbania , the largest town on the lake, is home to two villas with beautiful gardens – Villa Taranto , open late March through November, and Villa Giulia used for concerts and exhibits. Itra is the historic town, a short walk from the main town. Ferries to the islands and other towns around the lake as well as excursion boats leave from Verbania and there are many restaurants and shops. Where to Stay in Verbania: Belvedere Hotel San Gottardo is by the beach and the dock for ferries going to the islands. Il Chiostro is a hotel in a renovated monastery in Verbania’s old town (Itra).
• Locarno, Switzerland is the northernmost city on the rail line. From Stresa you can take a ferry or hydrofoil to Locarno and return by train for a scenic and fun day trip.

Things to Do on Lake Maggiore

Kayaking, boating, hiking, and biking are popular activities in and around the lake, as well as swimming in summer. In Baveno, the Aquadventure Park offers a variety of outdoor activities including suspended trails, hanging walkways, rock climbing, tennis courts, and bicycling (rentals available) and has a covered swimming pool. The Sant’Anna Gorge, at the end of the Cannobino River, is known for whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Head into the mountains above the lake for more hiking opportunities. From the town of Laveno Monbello, take the funivia , a 16 minute ride in a bucket lift almost to the summit of Mount Sasso del Ferro. In addition to beautiful views, there’s a panoramic restaurant at the top and places to hike.

Above the medieval town of Angera, on the eastern shore, visit the castle and museum of Rocca di Angera .

From late July until September the Stressa Music Festival presents concerts in churches and historic buildings.

Getting to Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is on the border of Italy’s Lombardy and Piemonte regions and Switzerland’s Ticino region in the north. The western shore of Lake Maggiore is served by the Milan to Geneva (Switzerland) rail line with stops in Arona, Stresa, Baveno, and Locarno, Switzerland. The closest airport is Milan’s Malpensa AIrport, about 12 miles south of the lake. Bus service runs between Malpensa Airport and some of the lake towns including Arona, Stresa, Baveno, and Verbania. Local buses and ferries run between the towns along the lake shore.

Italian Lakes Guide Books

Rick Steves Travel Snapshot: Milan and the Italian Lakes District Lonely Planet Italian Lakes The Rough Guide to Italian Lakes

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Lake Maggiore Travel Guide originally appeared on MarthasItaly.com Feb 17, 2024 , updated: Feb 17, 2024 by Martha Bakerjian .

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For generations of overland travellers, weary of journeying over the Alps, Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore) has been a first taste of Italy: the sight of limpid blue waters, green hills and exotic vegetation is evidence of arrival in the warm south. With palms and oleanders lining the lakeside promenades and a peaceful, serene air, Maggiore – at 66km, Italy’s longest lake – may not be somewhere for thrill-seekers, but it is seductively relaxing.

The majority of tourists head for the western shore, from where the sumptuous gardens and villas of the Borromean islands are within easy reach. The area retains much of its charm: the genteel old resort of Stresa is still a convenient base, linked by high-speed train to Milan (1hr) and by bus and boat to all points around the lake. Across the bay, pretty Verbania is also well connected by train, bus and ferry, while further north, enchanting Cannobio – the last stop before Switzerland – is popular with families and a good place from which to explore Maggiore’s hilly hinterland. The highlight of Maggiore's eastern shore is Santa Caterina del Sasso, a tiny monastery hewn out of the rock face, although there's also good hiking into the hills behind the more northern villages. Note that in winter (Nov–Easter) many hotels around the lake close down and attractions may be shut.

Top image: Lake Maggiore, Italy © elesi/Shutterstock

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Lake Maggiore

• 1 Understand
• 2 Regions and cities
• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 By train
• 4.2 By plane
• 5.1 By ferry

Lake Maggiore ( Lago Maggiore or Lago Verbano ) is a large lake on the south side of the Alps, mostly in the Italian Lake District and the northern part in Switzerland . The west side of the Italian part is in the Piedmont region and the east side in Lombardy .

Understand [ edit ]

Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy . With a length of 68 km and a coastline of over 150 km, the glacial lake stretches from the Swiss canton Ticino in the north into two major Italian regions, Piedmont and Lombardy. Since the climate is mild year-round, the area is filled with Mediterranean vegetation and exotic plants. Surrounded by beautiful lakeshore towns and villages with lush botanical gardens, amazing islands and a backdrop of Swiss mountain peaks, Lake Maggiore has become a top tourist destination, mainly for central and northern Europe tourists.

Regions and cities [ edit ]

The western part of the lake is in the Italian region of Piedmont . From north to south:

• Cannobio – small town 10 minutes from the Swiss border, with a Sunday market, a renaissance church, and a lakeside walkpath
• Cannero Riviera – nice town, with abandoned island (Castle of Cannero)
• Verbania – large town that includes Pallanza
• Dormelletto
• Castelletto sopra Ticino

The eastern part is in the Lombardy region in the Province of Varese. From south to north:

• Sesto Calende
• Laveno-Mombello
• Castelveccana
• Porto Valtravaglia
• Brezzo di Bedero
• Luino – town of 14,000 inhabitants with a famous weekly market
• Maccagno – small town of 2,000 inhabitants
• Tronzano Lago Maggiore
• Pino sulla Sponda del Lago Maggiore

The northern part of the lake is in the Swiss canton of Ticino .

• Locarno – large town with casino
• San Nazzaro
• Ronco sopra Ascona

Other destinations [ edit ]

• Borromean Islands - a group of three stunningly beautiful small islands and two islets located between Verbania to the north and Stresa to the south
• Brissago Islands - two islands located in the Swiss part of the lake close to Ronco sopra Ascona and Brissago.
• Castelli di Cannero (three small islands just off shore from Cannero Riviera)
• Isolino Partegora (in the gulf of Angera)

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

Several train services run to parts of Lake Maggiore.

• S30 . TiLO operates trains from Milano Malpensa Airport Terminal 1 up the eastern side of the lake to Bellinzona in Switzerland, north of the lake. The first lakeside town it stops at is Laveno . It then stops at Caldè - Porto Valtravaglia - Luino (compulsory stop with personnel changes FS/SBB) - Colmegna - Maccagno - Pino-Tronzano - Ranzo-S.Abbondio - Gerra (Gambarogno) - S. Nazzaro - Magadino and Bellinzona. Push the button for a stop. From Bellinzona there are services to Locarno on the lake. Trains come from the north through the Gotthard tunnel to Bellinzona, where you can change to the S30 or Locarno train.  
• Milan–Domodossola . Trenord operates trains from Milan , via Gallarate (near Malpensa Airport) up the western side of the lake as far as Verbania -Pallanza station, before heading away from the lake to Domodossola and then Switzerland. Some services stop at fewer stations than others. The full range of stops on the lake is Sesto Calende, Dormelletto, Arona , Meina, Lesa, Belgirate, Stresa , Baveno , Verbania -Pallanza.  

By plane [ edit ]

The nearest bigger airports are in Lugano and Milan. From Milano Malpensa Airport most parts of Lake Maggiore can be reached by bus or train.

• Alibus , ☏ +39 0323-552172 , [email protected] . A seasonal (Apr-Oct) on-call service that links both terminals of Malpensa Airport to the western side of the lake with stops in Arona - Meina - Solcio - Lesa - Belgirate - Stresa - Baveno - Feriolo - Fondotoce - Verbania Suna - Verbania Pallanza and Verbania Intra. Services are 2–3 hours apart. Book by 11am the day before departure (by 11am Sa for Monday trips), choosing from the fixed timetable. Buy tickets on board, cash only. €15 to Verbania .  

Get around [ edit ]

By ferry [ edit ].

Passenger ferries run up and down the lake. Services are provided by Navigazione Laghi [dead link] (NLM). Check the website for the latest schedules.

As well as passenger ferries, a car ferry crosses between Intra in Verbania on the western shore to Laveno-Mombello on the eastern shore.

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

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Get to Know Italy's Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore , or Lago di Maggiore , is one of Italy's largest and most popular lakes. Formed from a glacier, the lake is surrounded by hills in the south and mountains to the north. It's a long and narrow lake, about 40 miles long but only about .5 to 2.5 miles in width, with a total distance around the lakeshore of 93 miles. Offering year-round tourist activities and a fairly mild climate, the lake can be visited almost any time of year.

Lake Maggiore, north of Milan , is on the border of Italy's Lombardy and Piemonte regions and the northern part of the lake extends into southern Switzerland. The lake is 12 miles north of Milan's Malpensa Airport.

Where to Stay

Hotels can be found all along the shore of the lake. Stresa is one of the main tourist towns with hotels, restaurants, shops, a train station, and a harbor for ferry and excursion boats.

Transportation

The western shore of Lake Maggiore is served by the Milan to Geneva (Switzerland) rail line with stops in several towns including Arona and Stresa. Locarno, Switzerland, at the north end of the lake is also on the rail line. The closest airport is Milan's Malpensa AIrport. Bus service between Malpensa Airport and the lake towns of Dormelletto, Arona, Belgirate, Stresa, Baveno, Pallanza, and Verbania is provided by Alibus (confirm with the bus company if you're traveling outside of summer).

Getting Around

Ferries and hydrofoils link the major towns on the lake and go to the islands. Buses also serve towns around the lake. A nice day trip from Stresa is taking the ferry or hydrofoil to Switzerland and returning by train.

Top Attractions

• Borromean Islands: Three picturesque islands can be reached by ferry from Stresa—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.
• Park of Villa Pallavicino: The Park at Villa Pallavicino, near Stresa, has large botanical and zoological gardens with many plant and animal species. It's open daily from March through October.
• Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens: The botanical gardens are in the small town of Verbania, near the Swiss glaciers.
• Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park: The park in the hills outside Arona near the small town of Mercurago is a good place for hiking and mountain biking (it's closed to motor vehicles). In the park are many animals, birds, and plants as well as a few small lakes.
• Mottarone: To get to this mountain, you can take a cable car from Stresa Lido or drive up the panoramic Borromea Road from Stresa through the hills above the lake. From the top, there is a 360-degree view of the lake district and the Alps. In summer it's a good place for hiking or painting, and in winter there's skiing.
• Castles and Fortresses: The Rocca di Arona sits on the cliffs above Arona and has good lake views. The fortress was the scene of many battles, but the remains are now a public park that attracts ducks and peacocks. The 12th-century Rocca di Angera is a preserved castle with a doll museum inside. Near the Swiss border, the castles of Cannero sit on a rocky island near the shore.
• Church of Santa Caterina del Sasso: The 12th-century church is in a picturesque setting, built into the cliffs. It can be reached by a walking path or by boat.
• Orrido di Sant’Anna: The gorge at the end of the Cannobino River is a favorite place for whitewater rafting and kayaking.

The Lakes of Northern Italy

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25 Awesome Things to Do in Lake Maggiore 

If you’re looking for things to do in Lago Maggiore, check out my frankly brilliant list covering everything there is to do there.

After a week spent in luxury in Italy, I wanted to show you some of the great things to do around Lake Maggiore . As one of Italy’s three biggest Italian lakes – Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Como – you can imagine, it’s very beautiful.

Even just driving around the lake is an absolute pleasure, and actually, one of the things I enjoyed most about the trip. 

We did 300 miles in the 6 days we were there. So yes, first thing on your Lago Maggiore things to do list is to hire a car!

There’s not a crazy amount of things to see in Lake Maggiore , but enough to keep you busy on holiday and allow for rest. Lake Maggiore isn’t like one of Italy’s crazy cities, it’s a welcome respite from busy life with fresh air and beauty all around. 

Let me take you through some of the great things to see on Lake Maggiore based on my recent week-long trip. Just to note – we stayed in Luino, which we came to realise was on the less touristy east side of the lake. Fine by us!

A few facts about Lake Maggiore

– Lake Maggiore is well-known for its stunning villas and amazing botanical gardens. 

– It’s is the second largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda, and before Como.

– It’s right in the north of Italy. The northern tip of Lake Maggiore is actually in Switzerland. It not only borders Switzerland, but also the two Italian regions of Piedmont and Lombardy.

– Lake Maggiore is 54km long, and has a coastline of over 150km. 

– Lake Maggiore is locally known as Lago Maggiore, I’ll use the two names interchangeably.

Lake Maggiore things to do 

I’ve added the prices in of things to do in Lago Maggiore, as they were in May 2019. And I’ve also looked at the approximate driving time from Luino, which is where I stayed on Lake Maggiore. 

The main tourist area of Lake Maggiore is actually in Stresa, on the west side, but anywhere around the lake is beautiful.

We went over to the west side, to Baveno and Stresa for a day, and realised we actually liked the east side better. Mainly because there were less British and American people (#nooffence) and it seemed to be quieter. 

1. Spend the day at Monte Tamaro

Monte Tamaro is in Switzerland (just 5 miles away). It’s a stunning journey around the lake to get there. It was easy to get through the border check, just remember to take your passports, answer the questions, and you’re through. 

Monte Tamaro is a pure adventure. Here you can go paragliding, go mountain biking, use the toboggan or even have a go on the zip line 1500m above sea level. 

I found the pricing to be pretty confusing, as there are about 100 options, and I got the idea from the website that there were bikes to rent but apparently there weren’t . You needed to take your own, and there aren’t any bikes in the vicinity, which was a shame. 

So, we walked.

We paid €28 return to go up in the cable car – a beautiful journey – and then €5 to go on the bobsleigh and €8 to go on the zip line. 

Car travel time from Luino to Monte Tamaro: 1 hour 14 minutes / 47km

40 mins to Rivera drive and then get the cable car from there.

€€  37 CHF / £28 to get up and down 

Low season 8:30 – 17:00

2. Day out at Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia

Also in Switzerland, which, remember is only 5 miles away, are the two incredible beauty spots of Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia. 

Unfortunately we didn’t get time to do this. I really wanted to as they both look amazing, but there just wasn’t enough time in our week at Lake Maggiore. 

With a dramatic gorge and crystal clear water Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia provide the perfect setting for some photos and a good time. Just be careful if you plan on jumping off the rocks though as the area is known for having a really strong current. Watch out. 

Valle Verzasca is the site of the famous dam that features in the opening sequence of the James Bond film, Goldeneye. So if Bond can vouch for the beauty, you know it’s real!

Car travel time from Luino to Valle Verzasca: 53 minutes / 43km

Car travel time from Luino to Valle Maggia: 1 hour / 55km

€€ FREE ENTRY

3. Bucket lifts at Laveno

These are err… buckets that just take you up a mountain. They’re a really popular thing to do in Lago Maggiore and as soon as I found out about them I wanted to have a go. The view from the top was amazing, and totally worth the thrill of the ride.

Wait for a clear day to do the buckets at Laveno though, it’ll be all the better for it. 

It was a grey day when we attempted it, but we were in the area so thought we’d go for it. I didn’t actually quite register how windy it was either, until we were quarter of the way up a mountain with no return. We’d stupidly gone for an open top bucket and felt very precarious as we were winched up.  Bit scared.

Made it though and all good fun. One of the best things to do in Lago Maggiore!

At the top you can enjoy the terraces and watch everyone else coming up in their buckets. There’s also a little restaurant and a even a hotel too.

The Laveno bucket lifts take 2 people per bucket and the journey takes 16 minutes.

Car travel time from Luino to Laveno: 23 mins / 17km There’s also the R21 bus you can take

€€  Return €10 One way €7 Over 65s return €7 Over 65s one way €5 Day ticket for people paragliding or deltaplaning € 9.50

Open Monday – Saturday 11.00 – 17.00 (last descent 17.30) and Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.00 – 17.00 (last descent 17.30). In summer it’s open till 22:30. The bucket lift does not operate in bad weather or high winds.

Lake Maggiore map 

This map of Lago Maggiore might help you visualise what to do in Lake Maggiore a bit better.

READ MORE: Where to Stay in Lake Maggiore

4. Take the boat across the lake to Cannobio and Cannero

The boat network on Lake Maggiore is the best way to get around, and one of the best things to do in Lago Maggiore. Although, the first day we tried to use it the boats were cancelled because of the windy weather.

We probably should’ve known right there and then that it wasn’t the best time to go on those Laveno bucket lifts!

Find the boat to Cannobio and Cannero and jump on for one of the coolest things to do round Lake Maggiore.

We only had time for one and so asked the ticket seller which was best – she told us Cannobio so we went for that. We did get to see Cannero on the way though, and it was so colourful and pretty. 

– Cannobio is the largest of the two, with water sports including sailing, windsurfing, kayaks and pedalos in the summer.

– Cannero just has pedalos, but is obviously more relaxing, especially if you want to escape other people’s kids! 

The best thing to do in both Cannobio and Cannero  is to walk the lake side. We had the best meal of the trip, for both of us, in Cannobio at Bar Verbano.

Ben had an amazing seafood pasta, and I had anchovies spaghetti. So. Good. Looking out to the lake with an aperol spritz in hand, it was lush. 

Boat travel time from Luino to Cannobio: 

5. Day at the Lido in Locarno

We didn’t actually do this during our Lake Maggiore holiday, mainly because Ben doesn’t really like water and also with it being in Switzerland, it was out of our budget.

It just wasn’t for us on this trip but from what I’ve seen and heard the Locarno lido sounds awesome – especially for children. So I wanted to include it as one of the top things to do around Lake Maggiore here. 

– The border crossing to Switzerland was pretty straight forward

There are 4 outdoor pools, 3 indoor pools, waterslides, table tennis, diving boards and inflatable obstacle courses both in one of the pools, and on the Ascona Lake.

If you’re travelling without children you can go to the spa next door with pools and treatments. There’s food and drink here, but you can bring your own picnic to keep costs down. 

It’s easy to spend a whole day here, if you know how to relax, so that would totally make the entrance fee worth it. 

Before you head back to Lake Maggiore check out the lakeside at Ascona – it’s a great spot for an ice cream or a pre dinner drink. Lots of places to eat too. And if you really want to spend some cash – there are even some Michelin-star restaurants including Locanda Barbarossa and Ecco.

And if you’re there in the evening, take the lift up to Cimetta to enjoy the fabulous views over the mountain and valleys.

Car travel time from Luino to Locarno: 42 mins / 40km

€€ Prices from €6.50 upwards

6. Go to Luino Market

On the eastern side of Lake Maggiore, Luino Market takes place every Wednesday. It’s one of the most popular markets in the Lake Maggiore area. 

And if you’re in Luino until the aperitivo hour, 6pm, then make sure to pop into Cafe Clerico – their aperitivo was amazing. Look at it!

Just walk or cycle from Luino!

7. Visit the 3 Borromean Islands

The Borromean Islands are one of the most popular things to see on Lake Maggiore. They’re little islands located in the centre of the lake, and you need a boat to go out to them. You can easily jump on the public boats and do a tour, or there are ferries going across regularly.

The islands were populated by the Borromeans of Milan, and over a generation they transformed three rocky islands into baroque botanical masterpieces.

So we went to check them out. We ended up doing a three-island tour from Stresa, which cost €15 and then another €7 on parking.

We noticed that the same tours are just €13 from Baveno. 

What we didn’t realise was that, you needed to pay another €25 once you got to the islands to be able to access the palaces. 

Boat travel time from Luino to the Borromean Islands: 

1. Isola Bella

Isole Bella is the most popular of the Borromean Islands. It has famous white peacocks and beautiful gardens. The Borromean family threw fabulous parties here back in the day, for the likes of Napoleon, the Prince of Wales and Ernest Hemingway.

If you don’t want to go in the gardens then there are a few shops to look around, and restaurants. Not many though. 

We didn’t actually go in the gardens of Isola Bella as our budget wouldn’t allow (we went on our last day) and it was still a nice boat trip out.

As well as the cost it was also the parking that prevented us doing too much. We were told to put four hours on but you actually need 5 or 6, depending on how much you plan on doing. 

2. Isola dei Pescatori

Thanks to the fact most of the residents here are fishermen, there are some great fish restaurants on Isola dei Pescatori. For this reason, it’s also known as ‘Fisherman’s Island’.

We had a look around – doesn’t take long – and then decided to eat at the pescatori where we’d got off our boat. Ben chose an amazing seafood linguini, whereas I’d gone for the fisherman’s board and ended up with some little fillets of fish, and a deep fried frog. 

It’s a cute island where people basically just go to eat, and buy food to eat as souvenirs. Definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Lake Maggiore.

3. Isola Madre  

We were really disappointed by Isola Madre as there’s absolutely nothing to do but pay to go in the gardens. Well, actually, we bought a gelato for €2 to pass the hour till our boat came back. 

There are 19 gardens here so if you like flowers, you’ll love it. Not sure what everyone else is supposed to do though!

Getting to the Borromean Islands

Services run every 20 minutes and you have the option of taking the public ferry from the main port, or one of the smaller run tourist boat services which depart regularly from the lakeside front.

8. Visit Lugano for the day

Lake Maggiore is so close to Switzerland, you can go and visit for the day easily. Lugano is a swanky place, full of designer shops and fancy restaurants. You can enjoy Lake Lugano here, and use the boat network to get around on the lake.  

On the way to Lugano you could also check out… 

– the Alprose Chocolate Factory  (watch the production and free tastings)

– Swissminiatur (Switzerland in miniature)

– Morcote (pretty lakeside village for a short stroll and gelato)

We combined our visit to Lugano with our trip up Monte Tamaro, as it was just 20 minutes away. It’s a pretty city, quite small but there’s a nice park. Just like Italy it’s difficult to get food after 3pm though. We ended up at an Argentinian Restaurant as it was the only place we could find. 

Ended up spending €28 on a burger. Oops. But, Switzerland. 

Car travel time from Luino to Lugano: 33 mins / 25km

9. Hire a boat

It is possible to hire a boat yourself and get out on Lake Maggiore. I went in May when it was still a bit chilly and choppy so had no desire to do this. Could be fun for the summer though! 

Boat hire is available in Luino, Maccagno and Cannobio and would definitely be one of the most adventurous things to do in Lago Maggiore!

10. Head to Lake Como 

I didn’t actually go to Lake Como, just because I’ve been before. It looks like a really easy drive to Lake Como from Lake Maggiore though. Would make for a great day trip from Lake Maggiore.

Once you’re in Lake Como, again, you can use the boat system to get around. In the summer, it’s crazy busy. Lake Maggiore was much better TBH!

Car travel time from Luino to Lake Como: 1 hr 13 min / 52km

11. Visit Lake Orta

We went to Lake Orta on our drive to Lake Maggiore from the airport. It was about an hour from Milan Malpensa. We stopped at Orta san Giuglio and despite the grey skies and cold weather we could see how beautiful it was.

You can’t drive to the centre of the town. Instead, there are car parks at the top of the hill and you can either walk in to the centre or you can catch one of the little tourist trains in. 

We went to the Cafe de Arts for lunch, and I thoroughly enjoyed my pizza. Great little place.

Car travel time from Luino to Lake Orta: 1 hour 20 mins / 75km 

12. Villa Taranto

You can easily visit Villa Tranto on your way to or from the Borromean Islands. It’s near where you get off the ferry at Intra, if you’re coming from Luino. 

It’s another beautiful villa with magnificent gardens that’s apparently not quite as busy as the Borromean Islands ones. Located in Verbania, which is another beautiful place to visit around Lake Maggiore. 

Boat travel time from Luino to Villa Taranto: 

€11 adults 

Opening hours Open every day, all day March: from 8:30am till 5:30pm (last entry) April – September: from 8:30am till 6:30pm (last entry) 1st October – 14th October: from 9am till 5pm (last entry) 15th October – 31st October: from 9am till 4:30pm (last entry) 1st November – 3rd November: from 9am till 4pm (last entry)

13. Eat at Fusion in Luino

Ok, so this place was SO good I couldn’t just include it in another Luino point of things to do around Lake Maggiore. 

Fusion Restaurant is an unassuming place on the lakeside of Luino, that does ALL YOU CAN EAT A LA CARTE SUSHI. Oh my god it’s my dream. 

We’d been wandering around Luino for a while, just not feeling the restaurants there. And then we found this beauty where the food was great value (€23) for anything you could eat, although they’d charge you if you didn’t finish it. 

Accidentally had 10 courses between us. Delicious. 

14. Eat your way round Milan 

On that foodie theme, Milan is around an hour’s drive from Lake Maggiore, or you can get a train in from Luino. 

If you want to try some of the best food Milan has, head to Navigli by the canal. The aperitivo hour (well, 3) is amazing there and you can pretty much just dine out on your drinks. 

We had a night in Milan at the end of our trip so we could just get to the airport easily the next day. 

MORE ON TRAVEL IN ITALY

How about checking out the coolest things to do in Rome , or visiting the Cinque Terre ? I’ve been to Milan for the weekend a few times now, and each time love it more, but I also loved, loved, loved Lake Garda. Up to you to make your own decision!

15. Go hiking around the lake 

This picture is actually us hiking down to the lake, before we knew there were no taxis and we’d have to hike up again. Our villa was a 5-minute drive up a hill, or 30-minute walk. 

It gave us the opportunity to take it slow and really enjoy our surroundings. Lake Maggiore really is a beautiful place and there are many, many hikes you can enjoy depending on how far you want to go. 

16. Enjoy walking round Stresa and getting high

Stresa’s lakefront is beautiful to walk around, with amazing views of the Borromean Islands. It’s a great spot for gelato, and plenty of benches for people watching too. 

In peak season there’s a steamer that goes from Locarno to Stresa – a wonderful way to experience the magic of the lake. 

Or you could look for the Mottarone Cable Car – it departs from Stresa and you can see out to Lake Orta, the Alps and Po Valley. There’s one stop halfway up at Alpine Gardens, and a second one at Mount Mottarone. I love a good view in Italy, the cable cars were one of the best things about my skiing trip to Champoluc a few years ago.

Wish we’d done that now!

You can do a half day boat tour from Stresa – all organised and narrated for you. Book in advance to guarantee a seat. Boat trips to see other villages are a Lago Maggiore must see.

Car travel time from Luino to Stresa: 1 hour 20 mins / 80km 

Or just get the boat over 

€€ FREE ENTRY!  

17. Visit the Santa Caterina Church 

The Santa Caterina Church is a cool building carved into the rocks. We paid €5 for entry to look around. Check out my Instagram caption for more details on what you can see there!

            View this post on Instagram                     Went to a convent while we were round Lake Maggiore, the Santa Caterina del Sasso. It’s a beautiful religious building carved into the rocks. The highlight was the views and the building, the ‘oh that’s cool’ moment was the ancient olive press, and the ‘whaaaaaat?’ was the 150-year+ mummified monk in a glass casket inside the church. Wasn’t expecting that! * * * #lakemaggiore #santacaterina #santacaterinadelsasso #laveno #maggiore #lagomaggiore #lakeviewsitaly #italianlakes #italy?? #piedmont #italianchurches A post shared by Travel & Festival Blogger (@vickyflipflop) on May 21, 2019 at 12:29am PDT

18. Go to an Italian supermarket

I loved going to the Italian supermarkets. It was an opportunity to try lots of different things , at a good price. We were staying in Villa Sereni, with Bookings For You, and so had plenty of opportunity to eat at home. We ate most breakfasts, one lunch and one dinner at home – just eating from the supermarkets. 

Burrata and parma ham heaven!

19. Drink in style at the Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees

Near where you get the ferry out to the Borromean Islands in Stresa you’ll find the magnificent Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees.

It’s a beautiful building with a great little bar at the front – perfect for enjoying a crazy expensive cocktail. 

This is where Ernest Hemingway stayed while writing A Farewell To Arms . Pull up a chair and enjoy a drink!

Car travel time from Luino to Stresa: 1 hour 20 mins / 80km 

Or just get the boat over

INTERESTED IN AN ITALY ROAD TRIP? Read my Italy road trip guide !

20. Lake Maggiore zipline

The Lake Maggiore zipline  looks great but unfortunately way too expensive for me. I just wanted to include it in my list of things to do in Lake Maggiore in case you had more money than me though! 

If you do decide to go ahead you’ll fly through the green scenery of the Terre Alte (High Lands), looking onto Lake Maggiore. Your zipline can travel up to 120km/h (75mph). It takes 90 seconds of thrilling flight!

Car travel time from Luino to Lake Maggiore zipline: 1 hour 49 mins / 104km 

More things to do around Lake Maggiore 

21. Rocca di Angera – a medieval hilltop castle with gardens, 18th century paintings and furniture on Lake Maggiore’s southern shores. If you like castles in Italy, check out my blog post on all the castles I visited in Trentino here , there’s also some great pictures of food in there too.

22. Go on the Lake Maggiore Express – a spectacular journey, done by train and boat through the Centovalli – One Hundred Valleys. 

23. Visit Villa Pallavicino – enjoy the villa and the flowers and animals in Stresa. 

24. Rent a bike – we couldn’t actually find anywhere to rent a bike, but I’m assured that in the summer there are places to rent from. I’d recommend booking somewhere before you go. 

25. Rent a Vespa – Vespas are the most iconic way to get around Italy. Rent one around Lake Maggiore to explore in the Italian way. 

Lake Maggiore boat timetable

Intra to laveno ferry timetable.

This is the timetable we used in 2019 to get from Laveno to Intra. Check the latest times and dates before you leave. 

Where to stay in Lake Maggiore

We stayed in a villa on Lake Maggiore, in Colmegna just outside the main town of Luino.

The thought of our own balcony was just lush. 

We had this incredible villa from Bookings for You . They have all kinds of accommodation on Lake Maggiore from basic apartments for two, to luxurious villas for 16. 

Our Bookings For You villa was about a 5-minute windy journey up a hill. Not one for the faint hearted or nervous drivers! The villa was wonderful though. We had three bedrooms – two doubles and a twin. We also had a bathroom, an en suite and of course a kitchen and lounge too.

The WiFi was pretty good and we managed to watch a film or two, and some football match that was apparently important. 

It was great having our own place as we had breakfast there most days, a dinner and a lunch. It meant we could try some of the foods from the local supermarket which was fun too (see point 17 above). 

Best time to visit Lake Maggiore

Seeing as so much of Lake Maggiore’s highlights is based around flowers and blooms, the best time to visit Lake Maggiore is May and June. Which, lucky for me was exactly when I went. I’d aim for the end of May though, as we did have 3 rainy days out of the 7. 

Nearest airport to Lake Maggiore 

Lake Maggiore’s closest airport is Milan. We flew into Milan on the flight after work, stayed at the Villa Malpensa Hotel right next to the airport for the night, and then picked up our car from the airport to drive to Lake Maggiore the next morning. 

Road trip from Milan Airport to Lake Maggiore

We picked our car up from Milan Airport and then drove to Lake Maggiore, via Lake Orta. We used the main motorways on the way, and the smaller roads on the way back. Just for the scenic route. 

Personally I wouldn’t recommend visiting Lake Maggiore without renting a car. You’ll be very limited in what you can do. One night we tried to get a taxi home so I didn’t have to drive and they told us we needed to book 24 hours in advance. 

Price of a holiday to Lake Maggiore

Our Gatwick to Milan flight was only £130 for the both of us, return with no luggage. 

Our car for 6 days was £95. 

Our petrol for the 300 miles was £50. 

And then we ended up spending over £450 each on food, drink and activities for the week. This was us being kinda restrained and obviously me not drinking as much as I had to drive. 

The average meal was around €10 and upwards, with drinks on top of course.

Holidays in Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is the perfect blend of relaxation and culture. There’s plenty to do in Lago Maggiore to keep you busy, but not enough to stress you out. We had a wonderful week in Lake Maggiore, and I hope you do too. 

There are beautiful views of nature, and incredible architecture all around, and driving round the lake on a sunny day is something I’ll remember forever. 

If you have any questions just let me know in the comments below. I loved Lake Maggiore!

More on travel in Italy 

Best Places to Go in Italy According to Me

52 Cool Things to Do in the Cinque Terre

Awesome Weekend in Milan

PIN THINGS TO DO IN LAGO MAGGIORE FOR LATER

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

We are planning a train journey from Newcastle (UK) to Lake Maggiore in 2024 as we did the same this year to Milan, Lake Como, Venice and Colmar. Whilst surfing numerous sites for info I stumbled across Vickyflipfloptravels, and I must say that what she has written is absolutely everything I wanted to know about planning my time whislt there. Thank you Vicky

Hello Steve, that’s wonderful to hear – thank you for letting me know. I hope you have a great trip. Lake Maggiore really is a beautiful place!

Hi, this is fab! So many ideas! Can I ask which company you used to book your car and was it from the airport? We are flying into Malpensa and looking at car hires but they are working out around £40-50 a day. Thanks in advance x

Wow, this place is so beautiful! A great place to visit, enjoy, and take pictures. I also want to try the foods, too. Next time I would love to come and visit. Thank you for sharing.

Yeah I’d never heard of it before I was invited to go. Not sure why?! It seemed to be very popular with older travellers – retirees. I think it would be good for young families too though. We had a great week there.

HI, Nice article .. & wonderful pic Thanks for sharing

No worries. Glad you enjoyed it!

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• Top Attractions

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore or Lake Verbano is the second largest lake in Italy, with a surface area of 212 km² , making it the second largest lake in Italy after Lake Garda.

Lake Maggiore has a surface length of 212 km² . It's the second largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda .

Thanks to the Borromeo family’s wealth, the peaceful and charming hamlets that surround the lake were expanded, and were given churches, paintings, beautiful villas, and gardens , captivating all who visit them.

Lake Maggiore’s most charming villages

• Laveno : Laveno has the only natural harbor in Lake Maggiore. Although there are prettier villages than Laveno, it has a funicular that climbs to the top of Sasso del Ferro , a mountain with an altitude of 1062 meters (3,500 feet) that offers  some stunning views of the Alps and the lake .
• Leggiuno : Overlooking Lake Maggiore is the hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso . To this day, the structure is used as a monastery, but tourists can visit the building. This is o ne of the most beautiful and fascinating parts of Lake Maggiore .
• Isola Bella : Isola Bella is one of the islands on Lake Maggiore. It's an ancient fishing village that occupied the island and has become a beautiful oasis with a baroque palace and a beautiful garden full of exotic plants.
• Isola Madre : Isola Madre is the largest island in Lake Maggiore. It houses a stunning palace with a tropical garden, where white peacocks run free.
• Angera : The imposing medieval fortress in Angera overlooks the lake. It's worth visiting the palace’s interior to see the beautiful fourteenth and fifteenth-century frescoes , as well as the Doll Museum.

Getting to Lake Maggiore

The best way of discovering this area is by car; nevertheless, you can also take the train or book a guided one-day tour.

The easiest way of getting to Lake Maggiore is by car. You'll need to take the  A8 motorway in direction of Malpensa Airport and then follow the signs to Lago Maggiore . The Lake is only 50 miles (80 km) away from Milano.

If you would like to hire a car, you can click on the following webpage:

• Rent a car in Milan

To get to Laveno by train , you'll need to get the train from “Cadorna” railway station. It takes one and a half hours and the ticket costs € 6.70 ( US$ 7.20). If you're heading to one of the villages on the southern side of the lake , for example, Arona, you'll need to take the train to “Porta Garibaldi” . The trip lasts one hour and costs € 6.10 ( US$ 6.60).

You can check the timetables and buy the tickets online on Trenitalia’s webpage:

One-day trip

For those that prefer a hassle-free and comfortable trip to Lake Maggiore, you can book an organized one-day trip to the area and you won’t have to worry about getting lost or driving.

Getting around Lake Maggiore

The easiest and most enjoyable way of getting around Lake Maggiore and visiting the most popular villages and towns is by taking one of the ferries that cross the lake . You needn’t worry if you have a car since Lake Maggiore has vehicle ferries.

On the following website, you'll be able to check the timetables and prices of the ferries:

• Gestione Governativa Navigazione Laghi

Laveno is located 80 km northeast of Milan.

Nearby places

Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy (37.4 km) Lake Como (48.4 km)

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Lake Garda is one of the largest lakes in Italy and one of the most visited in the Northern part of the country. Its most famous town is Sirmeone.

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Where to Stay on Lago Maggiore: A Guide to the Lake Towns

Fri 11 Mar 2022

Beautiful Lago Maggiore is one of Italy’s most enchanting lake districts, the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend break away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Milan. The large lake extends into Lombardy and Piedmont as far as Switzerland to the north, so there’s plenty to see on a visit to Lago Maggiore. The highlights are no doubt the Borromean islands, with Isola Bella’s stunning confection of landscaped gardens surrounding an ornate palace an absolute must-see. The series of towns ringing the lake are no less worthy of your time. Beautiful lakeside promenades and elegant Belle-Epoque palaces evoke the grandeur of Lake Maggiore’s heyday in the opening decades of the 20th century. Read on for our guide to our favorite water-front towns in the region and discover where you to stay on Lago Maggiore!

Where to Stay in Verbania

Hotel Belvedere/Old World Charm/Riverside Location

Verbania is the largest town on Lake Maggiore, and perhaps the most obvious choice for accommodation on a visit to the area. Divided into three main neighborhoods, try to stay along the waterfront in central Verbania Pallanza . Access to Isola Bella is easy via regular ferry services from the docks, but there’s plenty to see in Verbania itself: don’t miss the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto on the edge of town, a stunning 19th-century design on the grounds of a 19th-century villa that is home to over 20,000 different plant varieties, or the elegant Villa Giulia , whose unmistakeable yellow facade and series of balconies make it a photographer’s dream. A number of restaurants serving up fine local fare on leafy terraces and lawns overlooking Lago Maggiore will ensure that gastronomes will have plenty to delight them in Verbania as well. 

Our Favorite Hotels in Verbania

• Hotel Belvedere San Gottardo : Some of the rooms are a little dated, but for me, that adds to the charm. They are clean, many with stunning river views, and airconditioned, and on top of all that, I get to feel like I'm in an Agatha Christie novel. Rate/Photos/Reviews
• Grand Hotel Majestic : The main hotel and communal areas reek of old-world charm, but the recently renovated apartments are a slice of modern bliss. Located just above the main town, the views are unrivaled, and a private pool is a perfect spot to relax after a busy day. Rate/Photos/Reviews

Where to Stay in Stresa

Hotel La Palma/Infinity Pool/4-Stars

The quintessential Lago Maggiore destination, the charming cobbled streets and elegant architecture of Stresa are strikingly redolent of the region’s golden age in the early 20th century. Lining the water’s edge (known as the lungolago) is a series of marvelous Belle Epoque villas and mansions, a reminder of the wealthy families that flocked here each summer from their residences in nearby Milan.  Book a room in one of the beautiful art nouveau hotels on the waterfront, and admire spectacular views of the Isola Bella a mere stone’s throw across the glassy waters of the lake. Make sure to take a stroll through the well-heeled gardens that stretch for over 2 km from Stresa along the lungolago , and tuck into fresh fish from the lake at the town’s well-heeled restaurants. With frequent boat services to the Borromean islands and easy access to the cable car up to Mottarone , Stresa makes for an ideal base when visiting Lake Maggiore.

Our Favorite Hotels in Stresa

• Hotel La Palma:  This upscale, family-friendly hotel is located right next to the lake. It has an outdoor infinity pool and a children's pool, so everyone can enjoy the day. If you need to relax after a long day, you can visit the on-site spa or enjoy a meal at the resident restaurant. Rates/Photos/Reviews
• Al Campanile Aparthotel :  A cheaper option than La Palma, but there's no skimping on quality here. The rooftop terrace enjoys some of the best views of the lake in Stresa. The rooms have been recently refurbished and come with all the modern amenities you could need Rates/Photos/Reviews

Where to Stay in Cannobio

Hotel Pironi/Rennaisance Palace/Great Views 

With a population of just 5,000 inhabitants, Connobio is a much more tranquil affair than nearby Verbania and Stresa. A marvelous tree-lined lakefront promenade leading to Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele II is the perfect spot for an evening passeggiata, with the sound of boats gently bobbing in the lake, providing a peaceful backdrop.  If you fancy a dip, a stretch of sandy beach at the northern edge of town offers ample bathing opportunities in the Blue Flag waters . If you choose to stay in Cannobio, then make sure to take a hike to the stunning Orrido di Sant’Anna , a deep gorge immersed in woodland 3 km from the town.

Our Favorite Hotels in Cannobio

• Hotel Pironi : This charming hotel is situated in the frame between Lago Maggiore and the medieval town of Cannobio in an ancient palace of the fifteenth century, nicely refurbished with the original architectural features. Rates/Photos/Reviews

Where to Stay in Luino 

Just a few kilometres from the Swiss border on the eastern side of the lake, sleepy Luino is another good option as a base for exploring Lago Maggiore. A tiny but lovely historic centre is a tangle of cobbled alleys and historic palaces perfect for anm aimless afternoon wander, and a vibrant street market takes place in the town every Wednesday. With origins extending as far back as the year 1535, over 370 stalls open their shutters selling everything from vintage antiques and bric-a-brac to local salumi and cheeses. The market is a must-visit when staying on Lake Maggiore, and ferry services are laid on from towns on the other side of the lake on market days to facilitate access. 

Where to Stay in Cannero

Tiny, postcard-perfect Cannero Riviera is situated on a natural inlet of Lago Maggiore to the north of Verbania not far from the Swiss border . A spectacular array of azaleas and camellias burst into life each spring, wreathing the picturesque medieval village in a riot of floral scent and colour. Olive groves and lemon trees complete the rich Mediterranean picture. The Lido di Cannero is another blue flag spot for bathing and water sports, whilst the Val Grande National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails in the nearby mountains. If you’re looking for a relaxed, out-of-the-way base for exploring Lake Maggiore, then the hotels in Riva Cannero are a great option.  

Where to Stay in Baveno

Baveno boasts origins in antiquity, when its mineral rich waters and temperate climate attracted well-heeled ancient Romans during the stifling summer months. The wealthy jet-setting titans of the gilded age followed in their footsteps in the 19th century, constructing a series of fabulous palaces along the town’s waterfront. Amongst the finest of these is the Villa Henfrey-Bianca , an imitation of an English castle built for English engineer Charles Henfrey in the 1870, and the Villa Durazzo - now a luxurious Liberty era hotel that has counted Winston Churchill amongst its illustrious guests over the last century. Baveno is also renowned for its delicate, pink-hued granite , which has graced buildings around the world from Milan’s Vittorio Emanuele Gallery to the Paris Opera. 

Where to Stay in Angera

Surrounded by rolling hills and forests, the medieval town of Angera glimmers from its position on the eastern bank of Lago Maggiore on the Lombardy side of the lake. The town is overlooked by the imposing Rocca di Angera , a castle associated since the 1400s with the powerful Borromeo clan who ruled this region. These days the glowering fortification is home to a museum displaying the family’s historic doll and toy collection (including some wacky mechanical numbers from the 19th century), which is well worth a visit; impressive medieval frescoes adorn the walls, while spectacular views over the countryside await from the tower. 

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Lake Maggiore

Province of novara, lombardy (east) side and varese, lake maggiore, lake orta, ossola valleys, novara and varese, book your next holiday with consorzio maggiore.

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The Best Lakes in Italy

By Katherine LaGrave

Halfway between Brescia and Verona, Venice and Milan , Garda—at 143 square miles—is Italy’s largest lake, and reputedly sees seven percent of all visitors to the country. What not to miss: Ride a cable car to the top of Mount Baldo for a view at the lake's expanse; seek spa treatments in Sirmione and Bardolino; order a plate of carne salada , or salted beef, in Riva del Garda; and take a tour to the island Isola del Garda, where, around 1220, St. Francis of Assisi founded a monastery.

Counting George Clooney among its acolytes (the Hollywood star owned a villa here), Lake Como is as equally known for its dramatic scenery as it is for its luxury resorts. To escape the crowds, ascend the mountain via funicular to Brunate, 1,600 feet above the lake, and continue the trek on foot to Faro Voltiano, a remote lighthouse from which you can see Switzerland. Down the mountain in Como, sit for an hour (or two) over cappuccino at Cremeria Bolla, which opened in 1893, and then walk it off with a stroll along the lake's picturesque waterfront.

Lake Bracciano

Twenty miles northwest of Rome , Lake Bracciano owes its origins to volcanic activity thousands of years ago. Today, it is one of the cleanest lakes in Italy due to strict monitoring from officials and its status as a drinking water reservoir for Rome. Tour one (or both) of the lake's main attractions: Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, considered one of the best-preserved castles in Italy, and the Italian Air Force Museum, which has an excellent collection of Italian aircraft and details national contributions to the industry.

Lake Maggiore

Flanked by the Pennine, Lepontine, and Lugano Alps, Maggiore—Italy's longest lake and its second largest—is known for its exotic gardens on Borromean and Brissago Islands, Santa Caterina del Sasso (one of the country's most spectacular monasteries), and the baroque Palazzo Borromeo, where Napoleon stayed with his wife in 1797. The Sacred Mountain of Ghiffa, one of the nine Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy UNESCO World Heritage Sites , draws a fair amount of pilgrims, and literature aficionados will remember the lake from its scene in Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell To Arms .

Sarah James

Caitlin Morton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Alex Erdekian

Lake Trasimeno

A change in scenery from the lakes in northern Italy, Trasimeno sits in Umbria, on the Tuscan border. It is a veritable paradise for both nature enthusiasts and gourmands alike: woods, vineyards, and olive groves surround the shallow lake, which is rich in fish, and the uninhabited island of Polvese serves as a public park. Of architectural note? Castiglione del Lago, which sits on the southwest corner of the lake and primarily comprises The Fortress of the Lion, a 13th-century castle built on a limestone promontory. Tip: Craftsmanship is also strong in the area, and traditional Irish lace—introduced in the 1900s—makes for a memorable souvenir.

Lake Idro is a seven-mile glacial lake in the provinces of Brescia and Trento. No engines over 10 horsepower are allowed, which makes the lake a favorite for sailors, swimmers, surfers, and fishermen bent on hooking trout. Mountains and countryside with hiking trails surround the lake, with three main villages (Bagolino, Bondone, and the Village of Idro) serving as its main points of development. Take a boat out on the lake, or head up to Rocca d'Anfo, a fortified military complex built by the Venetian Republic in the 15th century.

Lake Bolsena

Camping, agrotourism, and bed-and-breakfasts abound on the shores of Lake Bolsena, Europe's largest volcanic basin. Here, there is everything from black sand beaches to bird watching (look for egrets, grey herons, swans, and more), but the nearby Church of Santa Cristina may be one of the lake's most celebrated sites: In 1263, a priest reportedly the subject of a miracle here, and his blood-stained relics remain in the Cathedral of Orvieto's golden shrine.

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Navigation on Maggiore, Garda and Como lakes

• Season ticket
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Tickets and timetables Lake Maggiore

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• Include fast service

Transport with vehicles is only allowed between the ferries stopovers marked with "Traghetto"

Guaranteed rides

WARRANTEED SERVICES IN ITALIAN BASIN STRIKES (Notice in accordance with law no. 146/90)

Timetable valid from 24th March to 06th October 2024

Arona/Angera

700, 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 730, 731, 732, 733, 734, 735, 736, 737, 740, 741, 748.

Stresa/Intra

1, 2, 3, 6, 52, 53, 55, 56, 58, 59, 62.

Intra/Laveno

T.11, T.13, T.14, T.17, T.18, T.19, T.20, T.21, T.22, T.23, T.24, T.25, T.26, T.28, T.73, T.75, T.77, T.78, T.79, T.80, T.81, T.82, T.83, T.84, T.85, T.86, T.87, T.88, T.91, T.92, T.96.

Cannero/Luino/Cannobio

71, 72, 73, 91, 92, 93.

Timetables from the 24th March to 6th October 2024

General info.

We recommend our customer to go to the ticket office about 20 minutes before the departure. In the summer and during holidays there may be considerable traffic and therefore there may be queues at the ticket offices. The ticket offices of the main towns are located near the docks. If you embark from a port without a ticket office service on land, you can buy your ticket on board without any additional cost. Disabled people can always buy the ticket on board without extra charge.

Pay attention! During the embarking, pay always attention to the onboard and ashore staff. At the dock it is possible to find more than a motorship: pay attention to the information given by the staff, not to miss any connection or board on the wrong motorship. The staff is at your disposal for any doubt. Due to bad weather or strong wave motion, routes may be suspended: to have any update, it is possible to ask the ticket offices or the freephone 800-551801(valid only in Italy).

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Experiences designed for you

Selection of activities on maggiore lake.

Borromeo Islands Tour leaving from Pallanza

Lake maggiore.

Borromeo Islands Tour leaving from Baveno

Borromeo Islands Tour leaving from Laveno or Intra

Flat rate 32,40€

Stresa and the Borromeo Islands – Trenord + Navigazione Laghi

Adults 26,50€ Children 16,80€

Laveno and the Maggiore – Trenord + Navigazione Laghi

Borromeo Islands Tour leaving from Carciano

Borromeo Islands Tour and Villa Taranto leaving from Stresa

Borromeo Island Tour leaving from Arona

The blog #navigazionelaghi, stories and tales of captains and sailors.

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30 Nov 2023

What to see on lakes Maggiore, Garda and Como? DreamLake will tell you!

18 Oct 2023

What to eat on Lake Maggiore: the most popular dishes of the area

• Tastes and flavours

A vintage train and a steamship: Lake Maggiore like never before

31 Jul 2023

Navigazione Laghi recommends: the best beaches on Lake Maggiore

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📖"È il luogo più voluttuoso che io abbia mai visto al mondo. La natura incanta con mille seduzioni sconosciute e ci si sente in uno stato di rara sensualità e raffinatezza." 🥰 Queste le parole utilizzate da Gustave Flaubert, uno dei più grandi maestri della letteratura Francese, per descrivere la suggestiva bellezza dell`isola Madre, sul lago Maggiore. 📚 Lo scrittore di "Madame Bovary" rimase particolarmente estasiato dalla magnificenza del parco botanico che definì addirittura come un "paradiso terrestre".

🌊💙 Avventuratevi sul Lago di Garda con il nostro esclusivo #SirmioneTour! 🚄Partite in treno da Milano, arrivate a Desenzano o Peschiera e salpate verso Sirmione. 🏰✨ Godetevi una giornata tra storia, relax e panorami mozzafiato, tutto con un unico biglietto.🎫 • Adulti: €22 • Ragazzi: €13,80 📸 Scoprite più dettagli e prenotate il vostro viaggio cliccando sul link https://www.navigazionelaghi.it/esperienze/sirmione-tour-trenord-navigazione-laghi/ . #esploragarda #viaggiocombinato #iltuolagomigliore

🌟 Opportunità Professionale in Navigazione Laghi 🌟 Siamo alla ricerca di ingegneri navali e gestionali pronti a navigare verso nuove sfide professionali. Unisciti al nostro team.👷👷‍♀️ 🔗 Posizioni Aperte: 🛳Ingegnere Navale 🧑‍💻Ingegnere Gestionale 📝 Candidature: Le posizioni sono aperte a candidati altamente qualificati e motivati. Visita la sezione bandi del nostro sito aziendale per maggiori dettagli e invia la tua candidatura attraverso il portale InPA della pubblica amministrazione. 🔍 Perché Navigazione Laghi? Offriamo un ambiente stimolante dove la passione per il lago e la tecnologia si fondono per creare un’esperienza lavorativa senza pari. 👉 Scopri di più e candidati ora per Ingegnere Navale: https://bit.ly/4acyxCr 👉 Scopri di più e candidati ora per Ingegnere Gestionale: https://bit.ly/44vZEXK #navigazionelaghi #Ingegnerianavale #Ingegneriagestionale #carriere #lavoroingegneria

🚤💫 Pronto per un`avventura? Il Lago di Como ti aspetta con i nostri tour personalizzati Treno + Battello! 🌿🏞️ •Vivi la tranquillità navigando da Como a Torno. 🌼 •Esplora da Varenna a Lenno, passando per luoghi iconici come Bellagio e Villa Carlotta. 🏰 •Immergiti nell`esperienza di Bellagio, iniziando il tuo viaggio a Como. 🌄 •Scopri il Primo Bacino di Lecco, un nuovo percorso amato da molti 🛥️ •Vaga con Il Viandante sul Lago, facendo il tour da Lecco a Colico. 🌲 👉Scopri tutti i dettagli su www.navigazionelaghi.it 🎟️ 💳 Prenota oggi la tua fuga e entra in un mondo da cartolina! . #esploracomo #iltuolagomigliore #viaggiareinitalia

🚢🌫️ Salire a bordo delle nostre navi è un`esperienza che incanta in ogni momento. 🏔️ Le montagne circostanti, anche se parzialmente nascoste dalla foschia, aggiungono un tocco di magia al paesaggio, creando un`atmosfera suggestiva e affascinante. ⚓️ La navigazione tranquilla e rilassante permette di godere appieno della bellezza del lago, lasciandosi cullare dalle onde e ammirando gli scorci incantevoli che si svelano tra le nuvole. È un`esperienza che consente di apprezzare la natura in tutta la sua bellezza! . . #iltuolagomigliore #navigazionelaghi #lagodigarda #garda #gardalake #gardasee #gardaoutdoors #gardalakeitaly #gardaemotions #lagodicomo #lagodicomoitalia #lagodicomoitaly #comolake #comolakeitaly #comolaketoday #lagomaggiore #lagomaggioreitalia #lagomaggioreturismo #lagomaggiorelovers #lakemaggiore #lakemaggioreitaly #lago #laghi #montagne #montagna #lombardia

🇮🇹✨ Trascorri il ponte del 25 Aprile con Navigazione Laghi! 🚤 Unisciti a noi navigando tra le meraviglie dei nostri laghi. 🛳Per l`occasione, il piroscafo storico Concordia, in servizio dal 1926 e con arredi in stile liberty, sarà in funzione sulla tratta Como – Menaggio. 🕘 Partenza da Como alle 9:15, arrivo a Menaggio alle 12:05 (corsa n° 10). 🕑 Ritorno da Menaggio alle 13:15, arrivo a Como alle 16:30 (corsa n° 13). 👨👩👧👦 Naviga con la famiglia o gli amici e immergiti in una giornata all`insegna della storia, natura e relax. 🌼 Non lasciarti sfuggire l`opportunità di vivere un`avventura indimenticabile nel cuore della nostra bella Italia. . . #25Aprile #feste #navigazionelaghi #lagodicomo #lagodigarda #LagoMaggiore #italia #storiaitaliana #crociere

🚤✨ Un passo avanti nel sociale! Navigazione Laghi e l` Ospedale Policlinico di Milano si uniscono per combattere la violenza di genere attraverso un progetto di formazione e sensibilizzazione per il nostro personale. 🌺È un`iniziativa che mira a migliorare la consapevolezza e contrastare gli atteggiamenti abusanti e violenti, rafforzando così la nostra cultura aziendale. Unisciti a noi nel supporto di questa causa cruciale e segui gli sviluppi su questo fronte! 🌊💪 #StopViolenzaDiGenere #navigazionelaghi #sensibilizzazionesociale 📸👉 Per il Comunicato Stampa completo clicca sul link! https://www.navigazionelaghi.it/area-stampa/

"🛥️ Se ne parla sempre troppo poco, ma è un vero e proprio diamante del lago Maggiore: stiamo parlando di Villa Toscanini, situata presso l`isola dei pescatori e facilmente raggiungibile con il nostro servizio di navigazione (nella foto il nostro Condor visto proprio dalla villa). 🎼 Questa villa deve il suo nome al celeberrimo Maestro che spesso amava trascorrere il suo tempo libero proprio qui, tant`è che incise con le sue mani i nomi delle stanze che dedicò a personaggi di spicco della musica. 🏡 Oggi è possibile soggiornare e mangiare all`interno del ristorante presente nella villa, immergendosi completamente nella bellezza del Golfo Borromeo. " . . #navigazionelaghi #tourlagomaggiore #toscanini #villestoriche #nave #imbarcazione #navi #laghiitaliani #lagomaggioreitalia #lagomaggioreturismo #lagomaggiorelovers #lakemaggiore #lakemaggioreitaly #ilikeitaly #visititaly #igerslagomaggiore #flotta #iltuolagomigliore #lago #laghi #villatoscanini #villastorica #isoladeipescatori

Executive Director

Ing. paolo mazzucchelli, executive direction.

Via F. Baracca, 1 28041 Arona (NO) [email protected] pec: [email protected]

*Customers are informed that the above PEC address only receives messages from certified mail.

tel.: +39 0322 233200 fax: +39 0322 249530

Service information (timetables, prices, charters)

[email protected]

please note the information and reservations by e-mail will be satisfied only if received from Monday to Thursday by 4:00 PM and on Friday by 3:00 PM

Locarno - Wharf

Via di Motta, 1 – 6600 Locarno (Svizzera) [email protected] tel.: +41 917516140 fax: +41 917522245

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10 places to discover on Lake Maggiore, Italy

L ake Maggiore, both on the Lombardy and Piedmontese shores, offers a variety of places to discover. There are several stunning routes that can be covered by bicycle or trekking, but also on the water. So, what is the most beautiful town on Lake Maggiore? We're going to let you decide for yourself, with this selection of  10 places to discover on Lake Maggiore, Italy suggested by the SiViaggia portal.

Cannero Riviera​​​​​​​

Laveno-mombello, castelletto ticino.

Arona, in the province of Novara, is an historic Orange Flag town and rich in points of interest. Known in Italian as the Bandiera Arancione , the Orange Flag is a mark of excellence awarded to Italian towns that meet certain criteria in terms of tourism and the environment.

From the long lakeside promenade dotted with cafés to the Romanesque-style Church of the SS Martyrs to the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, a 35-metre statue that you can even enter and which dominates the view of the lake, to the Lagoni di Mercurago Natural Park, this Unesco World Heritage site on the shores of Lake Maggiore has plenty to be discovered.

In the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Stresa includes three of the Borromean Islands ( Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori ). It includes a spectacular lakeside promenade full of hotel buildings and Art Nouveau villas, including the Villa Pallavicino, with its English garden and zoo.

Stresa has long been a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, mild climate, and easy access to many of the region's top attractions. Visitors come to Stresa to enjoy the town's charming old-world atmosphere , stroll along the lakefront promenade, and explore the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Luino is yet another charming town located on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore in the Lombardy region of Italy. Close to the Swiss border, Luino is a great place to sample the local cuisine . The town has a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Italian dishes, such as homemade pasta, risotto, and fresh seafood from the lake, and every Wednesday Luino hosts an international market with over 400 stalls. The market is a lively affair, with vendors selling everything from local produce and cheeses to handcrafted goods, clothing, and jewelry.

Another must-see attraction in Luino is the Villa Serbelloni Park, a beautiful botanical garden that is home to over 900 species of plants and trees from around the world. The park offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for picnicking, hiking, and relaxing in nature.

Overlooking the Borromeo Gulf with a view of the islands of Lake Maggiore, Baveno is another elegant village on Lake Maggiore. It is known for its picturesque waterfront, historic architecture, and stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

One of the main attractions in Baveno is the beautiful 19th-century Church of Saints Gervasio and Protasio , which features a striking neoclassical façade and a magnificent bell tower. The church is located in the heart of the town and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Cannobio is a village on the shore of Lake Maggiore, the last before crossing into Switzerland, which has been awarded a Blue Flag for the quality of its water and beaches . Among the narrow streets and alleyways are monuments, churches, remarkable 16th and 17th century buildings and old fishermen's houses just waiting to be discovered. 

One of the most famous landmarks in Cannobio is the Church of Santuario della Santissima Pietà , which is located on a hill overlooking the town. The church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.

A few kilometres from Lake Maggiore and known for its 'little lake' with its Blue Flag beaches, Mergozzo is a pretty Alpine village with characteristic stone houses and cobbled alleyways . Mergozzo is also home to several historic landmarks, including the 16th-century Church of Santa Marta, which features a beautiful Baroque façade and stunning frescoes inside. 

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Mergozzo is a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains and countryside . The nearby Val Grande National Park is a beautiful wilderness area that is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. The park is home to several scenic trails, waterfalls, and natural swimming pools.

Mergozzo is also known for its excellent cuisine , including fresh fish from the lake, delicious local cheeses, and wines from the surrounding vineyards. The town has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars where visitors can sample the local specialties and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this beautiful lakeside town.

Cannero Riviera is a village overlooking Lake Maggiore in the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola area, set against a backdrop of lush nature favoured by a mild climate . Historical buildings dot the historic 'Linea Cadorna' and the castles of Cannero rise on mysterious islets.

One of the main attractions in Cannero Riviera is the beautiful lakefront, which features a small marina and a promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops . The town also has a small beach and several rocky coves that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

In the province of Varese, Angera, is embellished by a lakeside promenade with wide green spaces alternating with pedestrian streets , small harbours and a centre full of shops, historic buildings, and the Museum of Dolls and Toys, housed in the castle atop the Borromean Fortress.

The Rocca di Angera Castle is one of the town's main attractions and has a history dating back over a thousand years. The castle features a variety of architectural styles, from medieval towers to Renaissance palaces, and houses a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the town. Visitors can explore the castle's ramparts, towers, and courtyards, as well as the castle's rooms and exhibits, which include medieval artifacts, Renaissance paintings, and antique furniture.

On the Lombard shore, Laveno-Mombello connects Lombardy with the Piedmontese shore at Intra Verbania. In addition to a stroll along the lakeside promenade, the old town is home to charming little shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants (including the Locanda Pozzetto with its spectacular view of the lake). 

Another popular attraction in Laveno-Mombello is the cable car that runs from the town to the nearby mountaintop village of Sasso del Ferro . The cable car offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the panoramic views.

In the province of Novara, Castelletto Ticino is part of the protected area of the Ticino Valley Natural Park, and is known for the vastness and variety of the natural landscape in which it is set . Near the La Torbiera Fauna Park, the village is the starting point of the cycle path to Pombia where the Gottard Park is located.

Castelletto Ticino is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports . The town has several trails that lead through the surrounding hills and forests, and visitors can also rent boats and kayaks to explore the lake.

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Jewels of Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta & the Centovalli Railway

Fully Guided

Half Board (+1)

Flights & Transfers

• Discover Italy & its most enchanting lakes on this guided holiday to Lake Maggiore & Orta.
• Stay 7-nights in one of the region's quaint lakeside towns.
• Relax on a scenic boat tour of the Borromean Islands with a stop to explore Isola Bella.
• Explore Lake Orta by boat on a guided day trip.
• Take a   scenic ride on the   Centova l li   R ailway & visit the Swiss town of Locarno.
• Unwind with plenty of free time to soak up the sun or immerse yourself in Italian culture.

Book Your Trip From € 1188 pp

Book your trip from € 999 pp, from € 1188pp from € 999pp, add to wishlist, remove from wishlist, view hotels, your guided group holiday to lake maggiore .

Let’s explore Italy’s lesser known lakes on this 7-night holiday that offers the perfect combination of activity, exploration and recreation. We’ll take in the crystal blue waters of Lake Maggiore and Orta with panoramic boat rides, stopping to explore some of the lakeside towns and the famous summer palace on Isola Bella, one of the Borromean Islands. We will also visit Lake Orta, considered a hidden gem by locals who refer to it as “La Cenerentola” or Cinderella, because it’s even more beautiful than its sisters Como and Maggiore. We’ll take a scenic train journey, between Locarno and Domodossola which runs through the magical “Hundred Valleys”. This Italy holiday also offers plenty of free time to stroll around the Lake Maggiore, relax with a gelato or explore the surrounding area with tips from your expert guide.

Please note : Stays at the Hotel Moderno are on a Bed & Breakfast basis with two evening meals included

Trip Itinerary

Activity Level: Moderate

Travel to italy, arrive in lake maggiore.

Upon arrival in Italy, we will be met by our local representative and transferred by coach to our hotel.

Today is free to enjoy as you please.

Check out the local cafes and lovely lakeside walks, while enjoying splendid views across the lake to the Borromean Islands.

Ask our guide to recommend some places of interest for you according to your tastes.

Borromean Islands

Full day excursion to borromean islands.

Today, we’ll enjoy a full day excursion visiting the Borromean Islands by boat. Isola Bella is one of the most admired destinations on Lake Maggiore and here we’ll visit the famous Baroque Palace and Italian style terraced gardens, famous for its white peacocks.

After some free time, our next visit will be to Fisherman's Island (Isola Dei Pescatori), the only permanently inhabited island, which is famed for its narrow lanes and Church of San Vittore.

We’ll have some free time for lunch (under own arrangements), before we continue to Isola Madre, the largest of the three islands. With its 20 acre park, the rare plants and exotic flowers in the English styled botanical gardens will enchant us, before we finish up with a visit to the 16th century home where the Borromean family spent their summers.

Free Time in Lake Maggiore

We will have a full day to relax and take it easy today! Our guide will be happy to offer suggestions for activities and places to see in the surrounding area.

Trip to Lake Orta

Following breakfast, we’ll travel by coach to Omegna at the northern tip of Lake Orta. Next, we’ll continue onwards through quaint villages to the southern end of the lake, where we’ll board a boat and sail to the medieval village of Orta. Known as the 'Venice without water', Orta is a maze of picturesque streets and narrow cobbled lanes with many chapels dedicated to St Francis of Assisi. We’ll return to our hotel in the afternoon.

Explore Lake Maggiore at Your Own Pace

Today we have a further opportunity to relax and enjoy this lovely region of Italy.

Our guide will recommend some places of interest for you according to your tastes.

Centovalli Railway

Experience a scenic rail journey.

After breakfast, we’ll travel by coach along the Ossola Valley floor towards Domodossola. Here, we’ll board a narrow gauge railway for our scenic rail journey travelling over 83 bridges and through 31 tunnels into the Swiss town of Locarno at the northern tip of Lake Maggiore. We’ll have free time at leisure for lunch (under own arrangements), shopping and sightseeing in Locarno before returning to our hotel by coach in the afternoon.

Return Home

Depart italy.

Time to say 'arrivederci' to Lake Maggiore. Transfer from our hotel, with guide assistance, for our return flight home.

Customer Reviews

Hotels available.

Stresa   Italy

Hotel Moderno

Hotel Moderno is a family hotel located on a quiet pedestrian area in the historic centre of the town of Stresa. It features an inner courtyard shaded by centuries old wisteria. The rooms at the Mode…

Baveno   Italy

Hotel Beau Rivage

Located on the lakeside in the heart of scenic Baveno, the family-run Hotel Beau Rivage offers pleasingly decorated, comfortable accommodation and is a perfect base for sightseeing in this beautiful …

Hotel Royal Stresa

With an enviable lakeside location, the family run Hotel Royal Stresa offers traditional, comfortable rooms and is the ideal place to stay on your holiday to Lake Maggiore. Hotel facilities include a…

Know before you go

Will i be met at the airport.

You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

Do I need a Visa?

Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements

What if there is an emergency?

We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

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