The Ultimate Guide to Lake Maggiore, Italy
If you’re looking for the best Italian lake getaway that’s stunning, relaxed, and a little under the radar, Lake Maggiore is it. Nestled between Italy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore combines the old-world charm of Lake Como with fewer crowds, beautiful islands, historic villas, botanical gardens, and laid-back luxury. Spend your days boating to the Borromean Islands, exploring cobblestone villages, and soaking up long aperitivo hours with unreal mountain views. If you want a chic European escape with timeless style and space to breathe, Lake Maggiore is pure Jetset magic.
Where is Lake Maggiore?
Lake Maggiore is northern Italy’s quiet, luxurious hidden gem of a destination. This stunning alpine lake goes between Italy and Switzerland. It’s less touristy than Lake Como but every bit as gorgeous, with pastel villas, tiny islands, and lakeside towns full of old-world charm and mountain views.
Where to Stay
Base yourself in Stresa, the prettiest lakeside town with easy ferry access to the islands and gorgeous hotels.
My picks:
✔️ Villa & Palazzo Aminta -This is where I stayed! Classic lakeside luxury with a pool, spa, and dreamy views. The decor is delightfully, extravagantly ITALIAN, and I loved it. Contact me at [email protected] for Jetset perks when booking this hotel! If I book for you, I can get you free VIP perks 🙂
✔️ Hotel La Palma – Modern rooftop terrace and pool, super walkable to town
What to Do in Lake Maggiore, Italy
Island Hop the Borromean Islands
Hop on a boat or ferry and explore the three jewels of the lake:
Isola Bella: Tour the palace and gardens, an absolute must
Isola dei Pescatori: A charming tiny island with fishing village vibes, perfect for a lazy lunch
Isola Madre: Lush botanical gardens and peacocks wandering around old villas!
Visit Villa Taranto Gardens
One of Italy’s most beautiful gardens. Especially lovely in spring when everything is blooming.
Take a Day Trip into Switzerland
Pop over to Locarno or Ascona on the Swiss side. Both are gorgeous lake towns perfect for wandering, shopping, and a gelato break.
Long Lazy Lunches and Aperitivo
Do not skip sunset spritzes by the water. Hotel La Palma’s rooftop Sky Bar is a favorite. For lunch, try fresh lake fish at a tiny trattoria or a wine bar in Verbania. This is all about slow, scenic, delicious moments.
Where to eat in Lake Maggiore
Cardini – up the hill, a must-see – you get gorgeous views and a delicious family-run spot!
L’angolo del Gelato – best gelato!
Il Clandestino – delicious seafood
Centrale – for a bustling central Stresa piazza feeling, we liked this family-friendly spot!
Taverna del pappagallo Ristorante e Pizzeria – such a cute terrace & great vibe
Best Time to Visit
Lake Maggiore is beautiful from April through October, with the warmest weather in the summer.
May and June bring lush gardens, fewer crowds, and mild weather.
July and August are warmest for boating, swimming, and island hopping but are busier.
September is dreamy with warm water, crisp evenings, and fewer tourists.
October is quiet with fall colors and a romantic feel.
How to Get There
Fly into Milan Malpensa or Linate airports. It’s about an hour to an hour and a half’s drive to Stresa. The Milan Malpensa MXP airport is closer! We booked a private transfer through our hotel for about 200 euros.
Trains from Milan are easy too, but we had way too much luggage to manage that! Once you arrive, boats, ferries, and taxis and ubers make exploring simple.
What to Know Before You Go
It’s MUCH slower paced than Lake Como, perfect for laid-back exploring.
Pack comfortable shoes for cobblestones and little streets.
Bring a light layer because mountain lake breezes can surprise you depending on time of year.
Ferries are simple to use, or splurge on a private boat for that extra Jetset touch.
Plan to linger. This is not a rush-around destination. It’s about living your best lake life one aperitivo at a time.
Lake Maggiore is all about living dolce vita. Quaint, chic, peaceful and one of my favorite hidden Italian escapes. Save this guide, pack your best linen, and soak it all in.
What to pack for Lake Maggiore
