The Best of the Italian Lakes

The best of the Italian lakes.

When you're planning a trip to Italy, you've probably got the usual suspects on your list – Rome, Venice, Florence. But let me tell you about one of Italy's best-kept secrets that's hiding in plain sight: the Italian lakes region. This stunning area in northern Italy offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll find anywhere in Europe, and it's surprisingly easy to get to from major cities.

The Italian lakes region is nestled in the foothills of the Alps, stretching across northern Italy near the Swiss border. You'll find this magical area roughly between Milan and the mountains, making it incredibly accessible whether you're flying into Milan or driving from other parts of Europe. The region is home to several major lakes, each with its own personality and charm.

Lake Como in Summer

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The best of the Italian lakes

Getting to the Italian lakes is easier than you might think. If you're flying internationally, Milan's airports – Malpensa and Linate – are your best bet. From there, you can rent a car, take trains, or use buses to reach the various lakes.

The entire region is well-connected by public transportation, so you don't necessarily need a car to explore, though having one does give you more flexibility.

Lake Garda in Summer

The largest of the Italian lakes is Lake Garda, and it's often considered the crown jewel of the region. Stretching over 370 square kilometers, this massive lake offers everything from charming medieval towns to modern resort facilities.

The southern shores are perfect for families, while the northern areas attract windsurfers and outdoor enthusiasts with their dramatic mountain backdrops.

Lake Como is probably the most famous of the Italian lakes, thanks to its celebrity residents and stunning villas. This Y-shaped lake has been attracting visitors for centuries with its perfect combination of natural beauty and elegant architecture. The lake's unique shape creates different microclimates and atmospheres in various sections, giving you multiple experiences in one destination.

Lake Maggiore rounds out the trio of major lakes, offering a more laid-back atmosphere with incredible botanical gardens and charming islands. This lake actually extends into Switzerland, giving it an international flair that's quite unique. The western shore is particularly beautiful, with grand hotels and villas that have hosted royalty and celebrities for generations.

Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore

One of the best things about the Italian lakes near Milan is how accessible they are for day trips or longer stays. Lake Como is just about an hour from Milan by train, making it perfect for a quick escape from the city. Lake Maggiore is similarly close, while Lake Garda requires a bit more travel time but is absolutely worth the journey.

Let's dive deeper into Lake Como, starting with the town of Bellagio. Often called the "Pearl of Lake Como," Bellagio sits at the point where the lake's two arms meet.

The town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, elegant shops, and restaurants with terraces overlooking the water. You can easily spend a full day just wandering around Bellagio and soaking in the atmosphere.

Bellagio on Lake Como

Varenna is another gem on Lake Como that many visitors overlook in favor of the more famous Bellagio. This small fishing village has managed to maintain its authentic charm while still offering excellent restaurants and accommodations.

The walk along the lakefront promenade, called the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers' Walk), is absolutely magical at sunset.

Como city, located at the southern tip of the lake, is where you'll find the best shopping and dining options. The historic center is beautiful, with a stunning Gothic cathedral and charming piazzas. This is also where you can catch the funicular railway up to Brunate for panoramic views of the entire lake region.

Villa del Balbianello is one of Lake Como's most photographed attractions, and for good reason. This 18th-century villa, perched on a wooded promontory, has appeared in several Hollywood movies including Star Wars and Casino Royale. You can reach it by boat or by taking a pleasant walk through the grounds of Villa Carlotta.

Villa del Balbianello, Como

Speaking of Villa Carlotta, this is another must-see attraction on Lake Como. Located in Tremezzo, the villa houses an impressive art collection and some of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Italy. The gardens are particularly spectacular in spring when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in bloom.

Villa Carlotta on Lake Como

The largest of the Italian lakes

Now let's explore the largest of the Italian lakes; Lake Garda. The town of Sirmione sits on the southern shore. This peninsula town is famous for its thermal springs and the impressive Scaliger Castle that guards the entrance to the old town. The castle is perfectly preserved and offers great views of the lake from its towers.

Malcesine, on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, is a picture-perfect town dominated by a medieval castle. From here, you can take a cable car up to Monte Baldo for incredible views and hiking opportunities. The town itself is a delight to explore, with narrow streets and traditional restaurants serving local specialties.

Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda, at the northern tip of the lake, offers a completely different atmosphere. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, this town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking, rock climbing, windsurfing, or simply enjoy the dramatic scenery from one of the many lakefront cafes.

Gardone Riviera on the western shore is home to Il Vittoriale, the former residence of poet Gabriele D'Annunzio. This eccentric complex includes gardens, museums, and even a warship that D'Annunzio had transported to his hillside estate. It's one of the most unique attractions in the entire lakes region.

Lake Maggiore offers its own special attractions, starting with the Borromean Islands. These four small islands are accessible by boat from Stresa and offer some of the most beautiful gardens and palaces in Italy. Isola Bella, with its baroque palace and terraced gardens, is particularly stunning.

Stresa is the main resort town on Lake Maggiore and has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century. The town's grand hotels and elegant promenade give it a distinctly Belle Époque atmosphere. From Stresa, you can easily visit the islands or take the cable car up to Mottarone for panoramic views.

Stresa

The best of the Italian lakes

Villa Taranto, located in Verbania, houses one of the most important botanical gardens in the world. Created by a Scottish captain in the 1930s, the gardens contain over 20,000 plant species from around the globe. It's particularly beautiful in spring and early summer when everything is in bloom.

The town of Cannobio, near the Swiss border, offers a more authentic Italian experience away from the main tourist crowds. The weekly market is fantastic, and the old town has maintained its medieval character. The nearby Cannobio Valley is perfect for hiking and exploring traditional mountain villages.

Getting around the lakes is part of the fun, and each lake has its own ferry system that's both practical and scenic. On Lake Como, the ferries connect all the major towns and offer some of the best views of the villas and mountains. I'd recommend getting a day pass and just hopping on and off as you explore.

Lake Garda's ferry system is particularly extensive, connecting towns on all shores of the lake. The hydrofoils are faster if you're trying to cover a lot of ground, while the regular ferries are more leisurely and offer better photo opportunities. During summer, there are also special evening cruises with dinner service.

On Lake Maggiore, the ferry system extends into Switzerland, so make sure you have your passport if you plan to visit the Swiss towns. The boats here are often historic vessels that add to the charm of the journey. The route to the Borromean Islands is particularly scenic.

When it comes to accommodation, each lake offers different options depending on your budget and preferences. Lake Como has some of the most luxurious hotels in Italy, including the famous Villa d'Este and Grand Hotel Tremezzo. But you'll also find charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in the smaller towns.

Lake Garda offers the widest range of accommodation options, from family-friendly resorts in the south to boutique hotels in the historic town centers. The thermal spas around Sirmione offer wellness-focused stays, while the northern areas have accommodations geared toward outdoor activities.

Lake Maggiore's accommodations tend to be more traditional and elegant, reflecting the lake's history as a destination for European aristocracy. The grand hotels in Stresa are legendary, but you'll also find comfortable family-run establishments throughout the region.

The best of the Italian lakes

The food around the Italian lakes is a delightful mix of Italian and Alpine influences. You'll find excellent fresh fish from the lakes, particularly perch and trout, often prepared simply with local herbs and olive oil. The region is also known for its risottos, often made with local ingredients like lake fish or seasonal vegetables.

Each lake has its own culinary specialties.

Lake Como is famous for its missoltini (dried fish) and polenta
Lake Garda produces excellent olive oil and wines.
Lake Maggiore's cuisine shows more Swiss influence, with hearty dishes perfect for the mountain climate.

Wine lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the lakes region. Lake Garda produces some excellent wines, particularly around the town of Bardolino. The local Bardolino wine is light and perfect for summer drinking, while the nearby Valpolicella region produces more robust reds including the famous Amarone.

The best time to visit the Italian lakes depends on what you're looking for. Spring (April to June) is ideal for gardens and mild weather, while summer (July to August) offers warm weather perfect for swimming and water sports, though it's also the busiest time. Fall brings beautiful colors and fewer crowds, while winter has its own charm with Christmas markets and cozy restaurants.

Here's an insider tip: if you're visiting in summer, try to stay overnight in one of the lake towns rather than just doing day trips. The lakes are magical in the early morning and evening when the day-trippers have gone home. You'll have the waterfront promenades almost to yourself and can enjoy dinner at restaurants with the best lake views.

Another local secret is to explore some of the smaller lakes in the region.

Lake Orta, west of Lake Maggiore, is often called the most romantic lake in Italy. It's much smaller and quieter than the major lakes, with the charming town of Orta San Giulio and the sacred mountain of Sacro Monte.

Lake Iseo, between Lake Como and Lake Garda, is another hidden gem that's becoming increasingly popular with travelers who want to avoid the crowds. The town of Iseo is charming, and Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Italy, offers great hiking and traditional fishing villages.

If you're interested in hiking, the lakes region offers incredible opportunities. The Alta Via dei Monti Lariani around Lake Como provides challenging hikes with spectacular views. For easier walks, the lakefront promenades and the paths through the villa gardens are perfect for all fitness levels.

The best of the Italian lakes

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do, especially on Lake Garda where the reliable winds make it a windsurfing and sailing paradise. Lake Como and Lake Maggiore are better for more leisurely activities like kayaking or simply swimming in the surprisingly warm waters during summer.

Shopping in the lakes region ranges from high-end boutiques in the resort towns to local markets selling regional specialties. Como is famous for its silk production, and you can visit factories and shops selling beautiful silk scarves and clothing. The weekly markets in each town are great for local products and souvenirs.

Transportation between the lakes is straightforward if you have a car, but it's also possible using public transportation. Trains connect the major towns, and buses fill in the gaps. However, having a car gives you the freedom to explore the smaller villages and scenic drives that make the region so special.

One of the most scenic drives in the region is the road around Lake Como, particularly the section between Bellagio and Menaggio. The road hugs the shoreline and offers incredible views at every turn. Just be prepared for narrow roads and lots of curves – it's not for nervous drivers!

Menaggio waterfront

For families traveling with children, the lakes region offers plenty of kid-friendly activities. The ferry rides are always a hit, and many towns have playgrounds and gelato shops.

The cable cars up the mountains provide excitement and great views, while the beaches on Lake Garda are perfect for swimming and playing.

Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities in the lakes region. The combination of water, mountains, and historic architecture creates perfect compositions at every turn. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light, and the reflections on the calm water can be absolutely stunning.

When planning your visit, consider that the best of the Italian lakes can easily fill a week or more. Each lake deserves at least two days to properly explore, and you'll want time to simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Don't try to rush through – this is a region that rewards slow, thoughtful exploration.