Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is one of the natural gems of Northern Italy, shared between Piedmont, Lombardy, and Switzerland. The second-largest lake in Italy after Lake Garda, it captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery, where blue waters reflect historic villages, grand villas, and majestic mountains. With its elegant tourist resorts, the enchanting Borromean Islands, and lush nature, the lake offers a perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and adventure.
A favored destination of European aristocracy since the 19th century, Lake Maggiore continues to charm visitors with its refined atmosphere and countless attractions. From strolling along scenic lakefront promenades to hiking in the surrounding mountains, from boat cruises to exploring magnificent gardens, the lake offers experiences for every type of traveler.
Summary
The Most Beautiful Towns of Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is dotted with picturesque villages and charming towns, each with its own unique character and rich historical heritage. Its shores offer postcard-perfect scenery, featuring elegant promenades, grand villas, and lush gardens. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit.
Stresa: The Jewel of Lake Maggiore
Stresa is undoubtedly one of the most famous destinations on the lake, known for its refined waterfront and elegant Belle Époque hotels. The town offers a spectacular view of the Borromean Islands, which can be reached in just a few minutes by boat. Strolling through its charming streets, visitors can soak in its sophisticated atmosphere, with historic cafés, boutique shops, and villas surrounded by greenery.
Must-see attractions include Villa Pallavicino, home to a beautiful park and zoological gardens, and a trip to Mottarone, a nearby mountain offering breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the Alps to the Po Valley.
–> Discover Stresa
Verbania: The Garden on the Lake
The capital of the Piedmontese shore of Lake Maggiore, Verbania blends elegance with natural beauty. Its most precious gem is the Villa Taranto Gardens, a true botanical paradise featuring rare plants from around the world. Verbania’s lakefront promenade is perfect for a relaxing stroll, with colorful flowers and stunning mountain views.
One of its most charming districts, Pallanza, retains its authentic character, with historic arcades and grand villas overlooking the water.
Arona: History and Stunning Views
Located on the Lombard shore, Arona is a lively town rich in history. Its most iconic landmark is the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, a 23-meter-tall statue that visitors can climb from the inside, enjoying breathtaking views from its eyes.
The historic center is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafés with outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot to relax while admiring the lake. Nearby, the Rocca di Angera, an imposing medieval fortress, offers a spectacular view of Lake Maggiore and houses a fascinating museum dedicated to dolls and antique toys.
Baveno & Pallanza: Historic Villas and Relaxation
Baveno is famous for its pink granite quarries and stunning lakefront villas, such as Villa Fedora, which is surrounded by a vast park. The town is also a great starting point for excursions to the Borromean Islands, with boats departing from its small tourist harbor.
Just north of Baveno, Pallanza stands out for its elegant and tranquil atmosphere. In addition to the Villa Taranto Gardens, visitors should explore the Museo del Paesaggio, which showcases artworks inspired by the region’s natural beauty.
Cannobio: A Village Near the Swiss Border
At the northernmost tip of Lake Maggiore, Cannobio is one of the most charming villages in the region. Its medieval center features stone-paved alleys, colorful houses, and picturesque arcades along the lakefront promenade.
Every Sunday morning, Cannobio’s market attracts visitors from Switzerland, creating a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Just a few kilometers away, the Sant’Anna Gorge, with its crystal-clear waters, is an ideal spot for a nature-filled excursion.
The Borromean Islands: The Heart of Lake Maggiore
In the heart of Lake Maggiore, just a few minutes by boat from Stresa and Baveno, lies the enchanting Borromean Islands, an archipelago that captivates visitors with its timeless beauty. Owned by the Borromeo family since the 17th century, these islands are home to grand palaces, lush gardens, and picturesque scenery. A visit to the Borromean Islands is an unmissable experience for anyone exploring Lake Maggiore.
Isola Bella: Baroque Splendor on the Lake
Isola Bella is the most famous and spectacular of the Borromean Islands. It is home to Palazzo Borromeo, an elegant 17th-century residence featuring sumptuous halls, frescoes, tapestries, and an impressive collection of artworks. The palace is surrounded by magnificent terraced gardens in Baroque style, adorned with statues, fountains, and lush vegetation overlooking the lake.
The most scenic spot is the Teatro Massimo, a grand floral terrace that seems suspended between the sky and water, offering breathtaking views.
Isola Madre: A Botanical Paradise
Isola Madre is the largest island of the archipelago and is renowned for its botanical garden, considered one of Italy’s finest. Thanks to the lake’s mild microclimate, rare and exotic plants from around the world thrive here. White peacocks, golden pheasants, and parrots roam freely among the shaded paths, enhancing the island’s enchanting atmosphere.
The Borromeo Palace on Isola Madre is more understated than its counterpart on Isola Bella, but it houses historic furnishings and a collection of antique puppet theaters, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Isola dei Pescatori: Authenticity and Tradition
Isola dei Pescatori is the only inhabited island of the Borromean archipelago. Unlike the other two, it is not home to lavish palaces, but it charms visitors with its simplicity and authenticity. Colorful houses with wooden balconies, narrow alleys, and lakefront restaurants create a picturesque atmosphere.
Here, visitors can enjoy freshwater fish dishes in historic restaurants, all while taking in unmatched views of Lake Maggiore. Strolling along the waterfront, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, with fishing nets drying in the sun and small boats moored at the dock.
A Boat Trip to the Borromean Islands
A boat tour of the Borromean Islands allows visitors to explore these three distinct worlds, each offering a unique experience—from the elegance of Baroque architecture to the beauty of nature and the charm of lakeside tradition.
Excursions & Activities on Lake Maggiore
Beyond its charming towns and picturesque islands, Lake Maggiore offers a wide range of activities for those who love exploring nature, admiring stunning landscapes, or simply relaxing by the water. From scenic cruises to mountain hikes, here are the must-try experiences.
Lake Cruises: Exploring Lake Maggiore by Boat
One of the best ways to experience Lake Maggiore is by taking a boat tour. The lake’s navigation service connects the main towns, making it easy to travel between Stresa, Verbania, Arona, the Borromean Islands, and Cannobio.
In addition to regular routes, there are scenic cruises that offer breathtaking views of historic villas and surrounding mountains. For a more romantic experience, private boat tours—especially at sunset—create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mottarone: A View Stretching to the Alps
Just a few kilometers from Stresa, Mottarone is one of the best panoramic mountains in the region. From its 1,492-meter peak, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of seven lakes—Maggiore, Orta, Varese, Mergozzo, Monate, Comabbio, and Biandronno—as well as the snow-capped Alps.
Ways to reach Mottarone:
- By car – The Borromea panoramic road offers stunning views along the way.
- By cable car – Previously an iconic way to reach the summit, the Stresa-Mottarone cable car was closed in 2021; reopening updates are pending.
- By foot – Several hiking trails lead up from Stresa or Alpino, perfect for nature lovers.
During winter, Mottarone transforms into a small ski resort, ideal for families and beginners.
Hiking in Val Grande National Park: The Wild Side of Lake Maggiore
For those seeking unspoiled nature, Val Grande National Park, located just a few kilometers from the Piedmont shore, is a must-visit. It is Italy’s largest wilderness area, where nature has reclaimed the landscape, and traces of human activity are scarce.
Recommended hiking trails:
- Cicogna – Alpe Prà – A scenic and accessible trail for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
- Monte Zeda – A more challenging hike offering breathtaking views of the lake.
- Val Grande Traverse – A multi-day trek for those seeking a true wilderness adventure.
Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso: A Sanctuary Suspended Over the Lake
Located on the Lombard shore in Leggiuno, the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is one of the most stunning sights on Lake Maggiore. This ancient monastery, built on a cliffside overlooking the water, appears almost suspended between sky and lake.
Founded in the 13th century, the hermitage can be reached by:
- A panoramic staircase, descending to the monastery on foot.
- By boat, as ferries stop directly beneath the sanctuary.
Inside, visitors can admire medieval frescoes and experience an atmosphere of peace and contemplation.
Lake Maggiore in Every Season
Lake Maggiore is a fascinating destination all year round, offering different colors, atmospheres, and experiences in each season.
Spring & Summer: Blooming Gardens and Outdoor Adventures
Spring is one of the best times to visit, with the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto and Isola Madre in full bloom. Mild temperatures make it perfect for lakefront strolls.
Summer is ideal for boat excursions, water sports, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Visitors can explore elegant historic villas or relax on the beaches of Cannero Riviera and Cerro di Laveno. The season is also filled with festivals and outdoor events, including concerts and local fairs.
Autumn: A Tapestry of Colors Around the Lake
Autumn transforms Lake Maggiore into a spectacle of red, orange, and gold hues. It’s the perfect season for foliage lovers, forest hikes, and food and wine tastings in the charming villages.
With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, this is the best time to explore the Borromean Islands in a more peaceful setting.
Winter: A Quiet and Enchanting Lake
Winter gives Lake Maggiore a more intimate and relaxing atmosphere. It’s the ideal season for visiting museums, historic villas, and picturesque villages.
Nearby mountain resorts, such as Mottarone, offer skiing and snow activities with breathtaking lake views.
During the holiday season, the towns along the lake come alive with Christmas markets and nativity scenes, creating a magical atmosphere. One of the most unique attractions is the underwater nativity scene in Laveno-Mombello, visible from the lakeshore.
With its diverse landscapes and year-round activities, Lake Maggiore offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler, no matter the season.
How to Get to Lake Maggiore & Where to Stay
Lake Maggiore is easily accessible thanks to its strategic location between Piedmont, Lombardy, and Switzerland. Whether you travel by car, train, or plane, there are numerous well-connected options to reach the lake.
How to Get to Lake Maggiore
- By Car:
- The A26 highway (Genoa-Gravellona Toce) is the main route to the Piedmont shore of the lake.
- From Milan, take the A8 to Gallarate, then continue on the SS33 del Sempione.
- From Switzerland, the Simplon Pass (Passo del Sempione) offers the most direct connection.
- By Train:
- The Stresa, Verbania-Pallanza, and Arona railway stations are well-connected to Milan, Turin, and Switzerland.
- Both regional and high-speed trains make reaching the lake quick and convenient.
- By Plane:
- The nearest airport is Milan Malpensa, located about 40 km from Stresa, with shuttle and train services connecting to Lake Maggiore.
- Other options include Milan Linate and Orio al Serio (Bergamo), which also provide connections to the lake.
- By Boat:
- Once at the lake, the public boat service connects the main towns and the Borromean Islands, offering a scenic and relaxing way to travel.
Where to Stay: The Best Accommodation Options for Every Traveler
Lake Maggiore offers a wide range of accommodations, catering to all types of travelers:
- Luxury Hotels – Stresa and Verbania are home to elegant historic hotels with panoramic lake views, perfect for a refined stay. One of the most iconic is the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées in Stresa, a Belle Époque masterpiece of luxury.
- B&Bs & Farm Stays – For those seeking a more authentic experience, there are many charming B&Bs and agriturismi set in the lush countryside, ideal for relaxation and a closer connection with nature.
- Apartments & Holiday Homes – A great option for families or groups of friends looking for more independence during their stay.
- Campgrounds – On both the Piedmont and Lombardy shores, there are several well-equipped camping areas, including lakefront sites with direct beach access, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Thanks to its easy accessibility and diverse accommodation options, Lake Maggiore is an ideal destination for both a short getaway and a longer vacation, always offering something new to explore at every turn.