Explore the Italian Lakes with GoTravelDaily
The Italian Lakes are stunning, glacier-made bodies of water located in northern Italy. Among them, Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Garda stand out as the three largest, each surrounded by picturesque villages and majestic mountains.
With incredible scenery as the primary attraction, there is so much more to do aside from admiring the views from waterfront restaurants. Visitors can explore historic villas and their beautiful gardens, visit ancient castles and Roman ruins, and indulge in nature activities such as kayaking tours, mountain biking excursions, and hiking on hilltop trails.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Italian Lakes?
Summer boasts an undeniable allure, offering warm, long days filled with various events and festivals. However, this season also attracts a significant number of visitors, leading to higher prices for accommodations, congested roads, and large tour groups in the most beautiful villages.
To experience pleasant weather while avoiding heavy crowds, consider visiting in May or October. Winter sees a decline in tourist numbers, with some restaurants, hotels, and key attractions closing for the season. Nevertheless, with thoughtful planning, this time can transform into a magical visit, provided you can withstand the chill.
Some towns, like Cernobbio on Lake Como and Riva on Lake Garda, are charmingly festive in December, adorned with holiday lights, Christmas markets, and activities for families.
Getting Around the Italian Lakes
Traveling without a car is entirely feasible. Trains provide service to gateway towns on each lake. Additionally, a convenient ferry system connects key destinations, with buses serving shorter journeys. For those wanting to explore the mountainous areas above the lakes, a car offers greater flexibility. However, be mindful that roads are often narrow and parking can be challenging, particularly on busy summer weekends.
How Much Time Should You Spend at the Italian Lakes?
Considering the vast size of these lakes and the variety of attractions along their shores, a month may be required just to see the highlights. Therefore, instead of cramming every destination into one whirlwind visit, it is advisable to plan a more manageable itinerary.
If you are short on time, focus on one lake: engage in outdoor activities in Riva del Garda, explore the enchanting towns of Bellagio and Varenna on Lake Como, or visit Lake Maggiore’s islands and villas near Stresa and Verbania.
Top Activities at the Italian Lakes
Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is famed for its exquisite islands. From Stresa or Verbania, visitors can take a boat to Isola Bella, where the historic Palazzo Borromeo awaits exploration. This baroque mansion, dating back to the 17th century, features elaborately decorated rooms filled with magnificent artworks from renowned masters, including Van Dyck, Titian, and Rubens. The trailing gardens, complete with roaming peacocks, are also a mesmerizing sight.
For lunch, a quick boat ride to Isola Pescatori will reveal charming lakeside restaurants, with “Casa Bella” highly recommended for its innovative Italian cuisine. Afterward, enjoy another visit to Isola Madre to explore yet another opulent house and its globally diverse gardens.
Lake Como
When visiting the larger Lake Como, Como town serves as a perfect base. Take a scenic stroll along the Chilometro della Conoscenza, a lakeside promenade dotted with lush gardens and three picturesque villas, providing memorable views of the shoreline.
Next, delve into the historical wonders of the town, including a stunning cathedral and many medieval churches. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets lined with indie shops, wine bars, and terrace cafes. A must-do is the funicular ride from Como to Brunate, which unveils breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal hiking area.
Consider day-tripping to three beautiful villages in the Lake Como area. Begin in Varenna, known for its pastel-hued buildings and narrow streets. A 25-minute walk leads to Castello di Vezio, offering stunning views over the village and the shimmering lake. Bellagio, accessible by a short boat ride from Varenna, is another quaint location featuring charming pedestrian lanes filled with art galleries and floral restaurants. You could also take to the water for a unique perspective by joining a kayaking tour.
Finish the day at Menaggio on the western shore, where a few cobbled streets invite exploration and a vibrant water-facing piazza is perfect for enjoying an aperitivo amid a charming setting.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda is renowned for housing significant historical ruins. Sirmione, located on a finger-like peninsula at the southern end, offers multiple attractions. The Grotte di Catullo, which once served as a vast villa during the 1st century AD, captivates visitors with its hillside ruins. Contrasting this are the beautifully preserved Rocca Scaligera, a square-cut castle dating back to the 14th century, where visitors can explore battlements that provide panoramic views of the lake. As evening approaches, unwind at the Aquaria Thermal Spa, basking in its steaming open-air pools overlooking the water.
Fun Activities in the Italian Lakes
One of the best experiences is mountain biking around Riva del Garda. A standout trail is the Via Ponale (Strada del Ponale), a 10km dirt route winding along cliff faces and through tunnels, showcasing awe-inspiring views of the lake. The trail is well-marked, and there are ample spots to refuel, including Ponale Alto Belvedere, where refreshing drinks can be enjoyed on a scenic terrace.
Starting early allows for more time to cycle up to Lago di Ledro, a perfect swimming spot to cool off. E-bike rentals have made steep adventures much more accessible, available from local outfitters, such as Happy Bike.
Budgeting for the Italian Lakes
Visiting the Italian Lakes can be costly, particularly in the summer months when lodging prices skyrocket. However, significant savings can be achieved by opting for hostels and modest guesthouses instead of car rentals. Additionally, consider dining options beyond multi-course meals by enjoying local markets and casual cafés.
Estimated Daily Costs
- Hostel room: €48 (US$53)
- Basic room for two: from €140 (US$153)
- Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €110 (US$120)
- Ferry ticket from Varenna to Bellagio: €4.60 (US$5)
- Train ticket from Milan to Como: €5.20 (US$5.70)
- Cappuccino: €2.50 (US$2.75)
- Pizza (individual): from €12 (US$13)
- Dinner for two: from €100 (US$109)
- Spritz (or other cocktail): €8 (US$8.75)
Getting to the Italian Lakes
Milan is a transportation hub with robust train service connecting to the lakes from several stations, including the architecturally impressive Stazione Centrale. Approximate train journey times from Milan are approximately one hour to Como, 1.5 hours to Laveno Mombello Lago on Lake Maggiore, and 1.5 hours to Desenzano del Garda on Lake Garda.
Boating on the Italian Lakes
Motorboats can be rented from various outfitters at each lake, with no special license required for watercraft up to 40hp. Como Lake Boats, located near the northern end, is known for excellent service and competitive pricing, particularly when compared to the more popular areas like Bellagio and Menaggio.
Rental rates begin at approximately €130 (US$142) for two hours and €180 (US$196) for four hours, with discounts typically offered for longer rentals. Fuel costs will be added at the end of the rental period.
Beaches of the Italian Lakes
The beaches along the lakes are primarily rocky, featuring small to medium-sized stones. Often, these beaches are surrounded by grassy lawns, ideal for picnicking. However, if sandy beaches are your preference, the Italian Lakes may not be the ideal choice.
