I was looking for a different Italian lake experience, somewhere a little quieter than the famous Lake Como. I found just the place on Lake Maggiore. It’s in northern Italy, shared with Switzerland too, and has a lovely climate with mountains and water. It turned out to be a great choice, offering stunning views without the huge crowds.
Exploring Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore offers a beautiful Italian escape with dramatic mountain backdrops meeting the shimmering water. It’s a wonderful spot for those who appreciate natural beauty and charming towns. The weather here is usually very pleasant, perfect for enjoying the lakeside life.
Stresa Gateway to the Islands
Stresa is the main resort town along the western side of Lake Maggiore. It’s a pretty place with colorful buildings and Mount Mottarone as a backdrop. From here, you get fantastic views of the Borromean Islands: Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori. It’s a lively town with plenty to do.
You can take a cable car up Mount Mottarone for amazing panoramas. Park Villa Pallavicino offers beautifully kept gardens to wander through. The easiest way to explore the Borromean Islands is by ferry or a private boat trip from Stresa’s harbor. We took one of the smaller boats, and the kids loved peering at the water as we zipped across.
My husband, Michael, found a charming boutique hotel in Stresa that had wonderful views of the lake. We enjoyed leisurely breakfasts on our balcony, watching the boats go by. For something truly special, the historic Grand Hôtel des Îles Borromées is a famous spot, even housing Ernest Hemingway once.
What activities can you do in Stresa?
In Stresa, you can go up Mount Mottarone, visit Park Villa Pallavicino, or take boat trips to the Borromean Islands.
You might also enjoy exploring the town’s lakeside promenade, stopping for gelato and soaking in the atmosphere. The islands themselves are worth dedicating a full day to exploring, each with its own unique character and historic villas.
Baveno’s Pink Granite Charm
Just a short distance from Stresa is Baveno, another delightful town on the lake’s shore. It shares the same stunning lake views and offers easy access to the Borromean Islands from its own harbor. Baveno has a slightly more relaxed feel than Stresa, making it a good base.
One of the unique attractions in Baveno is the Museo Granum, a museum dedicated to the town’s special pink granite. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the local history and craftsmanship. A walk up to Piazza della Chiesa, with its quaint churchyard, offers lovely views and a sense of peace.
Baveno has a history of hosting notable visitors. Queen Victoria stayed here, and Winston Churchill even spent his honeymoon in a villa in the town. The Lido Palace Hotel is actually the former Villa Durazzo, where Churchill stayed, so you can even sleep where history happened.
Are the Borromean Islands accessible from Baveno?
Yes, you can reach the Borromean Islands from Baveno’s harbor by ferry or boat.
The islands are a highlight of the Lake Maggiore region, and starting your visits from Baveno offers a slightly less crowded experience than from the larger towns.
Arona’s Historic Heart
Arona is another beautiful town located right on the waterfront of Lake Maggiore. It’s a really charming place with classic Italian squares and narrow, cobbled streets. A big draw for us was its proximity to the Lagoni di Mercurago Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a stone’s throw away.
The nature park is a wonderful place for a family walk, with woods, small lakes, and open meadows. It feels quite different from the lake itself and offers a chance to see local wildlife. Ethan loved pointing out the different types of birds by the water.
History enthusiasts will find Arona particularly interesting. Its history stretches back to Roman times. The town is dominated by a huge 35-meter-tall statue of San Carlo Borromeo, a former archbishop of Milan. It’s an impressive sight, and you can actually climb inside for fantastic views over the lake and town. It was once the tallest statue in the world, even taller than the Statue of Liberty.
The Piazza del Popolo is the oldest part of Arona and is especially beautiful at sunset. You can also explore the Minerology Museum and the Archeology Museum. The remains of Rocca, an ancient fortress that once protected the coast, are also worth a visit. Imagining the pirates of the past made for exciting stories for Lily.
What historical sites are in Arona?
Arona has the impressive statue of San Carlo Borromeo and the remains of the ancient Rocca fortress.
You can also visit the Minerology Museum and the Archeology Museum, which offer insights into the town’s long history and geological significance.
Cannero Riviera of the Lakes
Further up the lake is Cannero, a small but incredibly beautiful lakeside town. It’s nicknamed the ‘Riviera of the Lakes’ or ‘Cannero Riviera’, and for good reason. The buildings are brightly colored, and the town is especially known for its lovely citrus trees, which grow in abundance here.
Walking along the promenade in Cannero is a delight. You’ll find a selection of shops and eateries, and there’s a sheltered pebble beach that’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. The scent of lemon and orange blossoms fills the air in certain seasons, adding to the sensory experience.
One of the most romantic features of Cannero is the sight of the ruined castles on three rocky islands just off the shore. They create a striking silhouette against the water, especially at dusk. We enjoyed a lovely dinner at a lakeside restaurant, with the ruined castles providing a perfect backdrop for photos.
For a luxurious stay, the Hotel Cannero is highly recommended. It’s a beautiful hotel with excellent reviews, offering a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the views. It really felt like a special place to unwind after a day of exploring.
What is Cannero known for?
Cannero is known for its citrus trees, its nickname ‘Riviera of the Lakes’, and its charming ruined castles on nearby islands.
The town offers a picturesque promenade, good dining options, and a pleasant beach for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Getting to Lake Maggiore in 2026
Planning a trip for 2026? Getting to Lake Maggiore is quite straightforward. Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is the closest international airport. Many airlines offer flights from major airports, making it accessible from various parts of the world.
Direct flights to Milan Malpensa are available from London airports like Heathrow and Gatwick. British Airways flies from Heathrow, with a flight time of about two hours. EasyJet also offers flights from Gatwick, and you can often find good deals, especially if you book in advance for your 2026 travels. It’s always a good idea to compare prices early on.
Once you arrive at Milan Malpensa, you can take a train or arrange for a private transfer to your chosen town on Lake Maggiore. The journey from the airport to the lake towns typically takes around an hour and a half, depending on your final destination and the mode of transport you choose. Car rentals are also available if you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace.
What is the nearest airport to Lake Maggiore?
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is the closest airport to Lake Maggiore.
It serves as the main gateway for international travelers heading to the region, offering numerous flight connections.
Lake Maggiore offers a wonderful alternative for a peaceful and beautiful Italian holiday. It provided us with the exact kind of serene, scenic experience we were hoping for. I’m already dreaming of returning.