Lake Maggiore – Tourist Tips & Advice
Discover the jewels of Lake Maggiore, Italy's second-largest lake. From the Belle Époque grand hotels to the charming towns of Piedmont and Lombardy, this comprehensive Lake Maggiore travel guide presents the exclusive areas where our luxury villas are located.
Towns & Sightseeing
Arona & Angera
Arona features a lively promenade and shopping streets. Take a 10-minute ferry to the opposite bank to visit Angera and the historic Castle La Rocca.
Stresa & The Islands
The most famous village on the lake. Visit the stunning Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Pescatori, Madre) or take the cableway to Mottarone for spectacular views.
Verbania
Home to the elegant districts of Pallanza and Intra. Don't miss the world-famous botanical gardens of Villa Taranto and the ferry connections to the eastern shore.
Laveno & Santa Caterina
A charming village with a panoramic cableway. Nearby, visit the breathtaking Monastery of Santa Caterina del Sasso, built directly into the rock face.
Northern Villages
Explore Cannero Riviera and Cannobio on the Piedmont side. On the Lombardy side, Luino hosts Northern Italy's largest weekly market on Wednesdays.
Switzerland
Cross the border to visit Ascona and Locarno. Try the Lago Maggiore Express for a scenic loop by boat and train through the Centovalli.
Lifestyle & Services
Nature & Sports
From over 10 nearby golf courses to hiking trails and water sports, the area is an active traveller's paradise. In winter, you can even enjoy skiing with a lake view.
Food & Wine
Taste the renowned mountain cheeses, cured meats (bresaola, salami) and local honey. Enjoy full-bodied Nebbiolo wines and dine in everything from rustic trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Concierge Services
No stay is complete without our expert assistance. From private chefs to boat rentals and personalised tours, we unlock the best of the lake for you.
Discover our Concierge Services →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Lake Maggiore?
The ideal time to visit is from April to October. Spring offers blooming gardens, while summer is perfect for watersports.
Can you swim in Lake Maggiore and are there beaches?
Yes, Lake Maggiore is excellent for swimming. Summer temperatures reach a pleasant 23-24°C at numerous public lidos and private beaches.
Is Lake Maggiore suitable for families?
Yes, Lake Maggiore is family-friendly with adventure parks, safari parks, and the Borromean Islands palaces.
How do I get to Lake Maggiore?
Lake Maggiore is easily accessible by car, train, and plane. The closest airport is Milan Malpensa (45 minutes), followed by Milan Linate, Bergamo Orio al Serio, and Zurich Airport in Switzerland. The lake is well-connected by motorways (A26 from Genoa, A8 from Milan) and trains, with regular services to Stresa, Arona, and Verbania. We can organise private transfers directly to your villa.
What is the difference between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore?
Lake Maggiore is more spacious and nature-oriented, while Lake Como is known for steep mountains and celebrity glamour.
What makes Stresa special on Lake Maggiore?
Stresa is the most famous town on Lake Maggiore, known for its Belle Époque grand hotels and being the gateway to the Borromean Islands. The town offers elegant waterfront promenades, luxury shopping, and the Mottarone cable car with spectacular Alpine views. It's the perfect base for exploring the lake.
What are the Borromean Islands and how do I visit them?
The Borromean Islands are a group of three stunning islands in Lake Maggiore: Isola Bella (featuring a baroque palace and terraced gardens), Isola Madre (with exotic botanical gardens), and Isola dei Pescatori (a charming fishing village). Regular ferries depart from Stresa, and you can visit all three islands in one day with a combined ticket.