Lake Maggiore
Italy · Piedmont & Lombardy · 193 m
Description
Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore) is one of Northern Italy’s most beautiful lakes, combining Mediterranean charm with a spectacular Alpine backdrop. Stretching across Piedmont, Lombardy, and the Swiss canton of Ticino, the lake is known for its mild climate, elegant lakeside towns such as Stresa and Verbania, magnificent villas, lush gardens, and the famous Borromean Islands, including Isola Bella and Isola Madre. Lake Maggiore blends Mediterranean-style vegetation with Alpine scenery and offers a wealth of opportunities for nature, culture, and relaxation. Landmarks such as the Santa Caterina del Sasso hermitage and panoramic Mount Mottarone make it one of the most captivating lake landscapes between Italy and Switzerland.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 4 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Isola Bella & Borromeo Palace Gardens
- Borromean Islands Boat Tour
- Isola Madre & Botanical Gardens
- Isola dei Pescatori
- Stresa & Belle Époque Lakefront
- Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens
- Santa Caterina del Sasso
- Rocca di Angera
- Locarno & Piazza Grande(Day trip)
- Mottarone Summit & Lake Panorama
- Cannobio Old Town & Lakefront
- Madonna del Sasso & Locarno View(Day trip)
- Verbania Pallanza & Lakefront
- Ascona Old Town & Lakefront(Day trip)
- Lake Maggiore Ferry & Boat Trips
- Cannero Castles
- Lake Maggiore Beaches & Swimming
- Val Grande National Park(Day trip)
- Lake Maggiore Express
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Stresa, Baveno, Belgirate
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry