The travel world is always on the lookout for that next special place, the one that offers everything the famous spots do but with a little more breathing room and a kinder price tag. It turns out, some of Italy’s most beautiful lakeside towns are experiencing just that kind of renewed interest. This year, my family and I decided to explore some of these lesser-known gems, and Italy has truly delivered some unforgettable moments.
Discovering Italy’s Lakeside Charm
When we think of Italian lakes, Lake Como often springs to mind – and for good reason. However, the search is on for its quieter doppelgangers. One such place that captured our hearts was Lake Maggiore. It offers a similar breathtaking beauty to Como, with stunning villas and clear blue waters, but with a decidedly more relaxed atmosphere. It felt like we had stumbled upon a secret that many other travelers hadn’t yet discovered. This was perfect for us, as traveling with young children means sometimes you need a bit more space and fewer crowds.
Lake Maggiore A Tranquil Escape
Our stay near the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore was simply magical. The views from our accommodation were reminiscent of the grand scenes you’d expect from a famous Italian lake, yet the sense of peace was profound. We spent mornings sipping coffee on the balcony, watching the light shift over the water, with the islands providing a stunning backdrop. It’s the kind of place that encourages slow mornings and leisurely exploration, which is exactly what we needed.
Is Lake Maggiore a good alternative to Lake Como?
Absolutely. Lake Maggiore offers that quintessential Italian lake experience—elegant villas, beautiful gardens, and serene waters—but without the intense crowds that can sometimes overwhelm Lake Como, especially during peak season. The islands, particularly Isola Bella and Isola Madre, are worth visiting on their own, offering their own unique charm and history.
We found that the pace of life on Lake Maggiore allowed us to truly connect with the surroundings. Strolling through charming lakeside towns felt far more intimate than navigating the throngs at more popular destinations. For families, this difference can be huge. Lily, our seven-year-old, had plenty of room to run and explore without us constantly worrying about her getting lost in a crowd.
Exploring Lakeside Villages
One of our favorite discoveries was a charming apartment in an old fisherman’s village on Isola Bella. This little corner of Lake Maggiore felt steeped in history and charm. The apartment itself was lovely, but it was the atmosphere of the village that truly enchanted us. Waking up to the sounds of the lake and the gentle chatter of locals was a world away from our busy life back in Boston.
Evenings were spent enjoying gelato and watching the sunset paint the sky in incredible hues. The proximity to the water meant spontaneous dips for the kids and peaceful moments for us. It’s these simple, unhurried experiences that make travel so rewarding, especially when you have your family with you.
What are the main attractions around Lake Maggiore?
The Borromean Islands are the star attraction, especially Isola Bella with its baroque palace and tiered gardens, and Isola Madre, known for its botanical gardens. The towns around the lake, like Stresa and Verbania, offer beautiful promenades, charming shops, and excellent restaurants serving local specialties. Boat trips are a must to fully appreciate the lake’s beauty.
Beyond the islands, we enjoyed exploring the lakeside towns. Each offered its own character, from the elegant Stresa to the more laid-back Verbania. Having access to easy ferry services made hopping between locations a breeze. Michael and I loved discovering little cafes tucked away on side streets, while the children were thrilled by the boat rides. They’ve always been fascinated by different kinds of transport, and ferrying across the lake was a big hit.
Genoa A Vibrant Port City Alternative
While the thought of Venice might conjure images of gondolas and crowded canals, we also explored Genoa. This historic port city offers a different, yet equally compelling, Italian experience. It’s a place often overlooked in favor of its more famous counterparts, but it holds a unique allure with its ancient alleyways and stunning architecture. Genoa feels like a city with layers of history waiting to be uncovered.
Stepping Back in Time in Genoa
Our stay in Genoa was in an impressive top-floor apartment right in the heart of the city. It provided a perfect base for delving into Genoa’s rich past. We spent our days wandering through the caruggi, the narrow medieval lanes that form the old town, discovering hidden piazzas and incredible architectural details around every corner. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining all the centuries of life that have unfolded in these streets.
The city has a certain raw, authentic charm that is incredibly appealing. It’s not as polished as some of the more tourist-centric cities, and that’s part of its appeal. You feel like you’re experiencing the real Genoa. For the kids, it was an adventure navigating what felt like a labyrinth of streets, each turn revealing something new to spark their curiosity.
How does Genoa compare to Venice?
Genoa offers a historical and cultural experience that is distinct from Venice. While Venice is famous for its canals and unique lagoon setting, Genoa boasts a vast medieval old town, a significant maritime history, and impressive palaces. It provides a more grounded, less overtly romanticized Italian city experience, with a strong local feel and authentic cuisine.
One thing we particularly enjoyed was the food scene in Genoa. From delicious pesto (which originated in Liguria) to fresh seafood, the culinary offerings were fantastic. Finding family-friendly ristorantes was easy, and the children loved trying new dishes. Ethan, our youngest, especially enjoyed the focaccia, which is a local specialty and readily available.
Discovering Rooftop Views and Central Stays
We also had the chance to stay in a newly renovated apartment within a stunning Liberty-style dome, a design from the early 20th century. Located right on the main street, its panoramic views were simply spectacular. Being so close to Brignole station and Piazza De Ferrari made exploring the city incredibly convenient, something that is always a bonus when traveling with children.
This apartment offered a unique perspective on the city, allowing us to see the rooftops and landmarks from above. It made for some truly memorable moments, especially during sunrise and sunset. The kids were mesmerized by the cityscape, and it provided a moment of quiet contemplation for us before heading out for our daily adventures.
What are the must-see areas in Genoa?
The medieval old town, particularly the caruggi, is essential to explore. The Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases incredible Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Genoa’s aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, is also a major attraction, especially for families. The Porto Antico (Old Port) area has been revitalized with museums, restaurants, and entertainment.
Exploring the Palazzi dei Rolli was like walking through an open-air museum. Each palace felt grander than the last, filled with art and history. We tried to imagine the lives of the wealthy families who once resided there. For Lily, it was the stories and the intricate details that caught her eye, while Ethan was more impressed by the sheer scale and the ornate ceilings.
Family Moments in Italy
These trips, whether to the tranquil shores of Lake Maggiore or the historic streets of Genoa, have always been about more than just sightseeing. They’re about the moments we share together. I remember one afternoon on Lake Maggiore, after a day of exploring the Borromean Islands. The children were happily exhausted and cuddled up with me on a shaded bench, pointing at the boats gliding across the water. Michael was nearby, sketching in his journal. It was a simple, peaceful scene, but it’s these kinds of memories that I cherish most from our travels.
Then, in Genoa, we stumbled upon a small, lively piazza where local children were playing football. Lily, ever the outgoing one, was soon invited to join in. Watching her laugh and interact with kids she’d just met, with Michael cheering from the sidelines, was a truly heartwarming experience. These spontaneous interactions are what make a trip feel truly authentic and memorable for all of us.
What are some family-friendly activities in Italy?
Italy offers a wealth of family-friendly options. Beyond the historical sites, consider boat trips on lakes or along the coast, gelato tasting in every town, exploring local markets, visiting aquariums like Genoa’s, and even attending local festivals if your timing is right. Many towns offer playgrounds and open spaces for children to run around. Engaging the children in simple activities like spotting specific architectural details or trying local foods can make the experience more interactive for them.
In 2026, we’re hoping to explore more of Italy’s diverse regions. The country has an endless supply of beautiful locations, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic coastlines of Puglia. The key is finding those places that offer a balance—beauty, culture, history, delicious food, and importantly, a welcoming atmosphere for families. Italy continues to be a place where we can create lasting memories, one discovery at a time.
Italy has a way of welcoming you in, offering diverse landscapes and rich history at every turn. Whether you’re drawn to the serene lakes or the vibrant city life, there’s always something new to explore and enjoy. I hope you find your own charming Italian escape soon.