A Beginner's Guide to the Italian Lakes

The Italian Lakes are stunning, glacier-formed waters in northern Italy. The largest—Maggiore, Como, and Garda—are surrounded by charming villages and towering mountains.

While the breathtaking scenery is a major draw, there’s much more to experience beyond the views from a lakeside restaurant. You can discover historic villas with magnificent gardens, explore castles and Roman ruins, or immerse yourself in nature through kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking trails in the hills.

Here’s everything you need to know for your first trip to this remarkable Italian region.

When is the best time to visit the Italian Lakes?

Summer is undeniably attractive, featuring long, warm days filled with major events and festivals. However, from June to early September, the lakes are flooded with tourists, leading to increased accommodation rates, crowded roads, and large tour groups navigating the most picturesque villages.

To escape the peak crowds while still enjoying lovely weather, consider visiting in May or October. Winter attracts fewer visitors, and many restaurants, hotels, and popular attractions may close for the season. However, with thoughtful planning, winter can offer a magical experience if you don’t mind the chill.

Certain lakeside towns, such as Cernobbio on Lake Como and Riva on Lake Garda, come alive in December with festive lights, Christmas markets, and special activities for children.

Is navigating the Italian Lakes straightforward?

You can definitely embrace a greener approach without a car. Trains can take you to the main towns around each lake, and a convenient ferry system connects essential locations. Buses are available for shorter distances. However, if your plans include exploring the mountainous regions above the lakes, a car will offer greater flexibility. Just be aware that the roads are narrow and parking can be a challenge, especially on summer weekends.

How long should I dedicate to the Italian Lakes?

Seeing the highlights of this expansive region would take more than a month, given the size of the lakes and the variety of attractions along their shores. Instead of cramming everything into a rushed trip, consider creating a more balanced itinerary.

If you only have a weekend, choose one lake to focus on: enjoy outdoor adventures in Riva del Garda; explore the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna on Lake Como; or visit the islands and villas of Lake Maggiore near Stresa and Verbania.

With a week at your disposal, you can mix and match a few of these itineraries or embark on a more comprehensive lake journey—perhaps even include a neighboring country. The northern tip of Lake Maggiore is in southern Switzerland, which also boasts another stunning lake: Lugano.

Must-try experiences at the Italian Lakes

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is famous for its trio of stunning islands. From Stresa or Verbania, hop on a boat to Isola Bella, where you can explore the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo. This grand estate dates back to the 17th century and boasts opulently adorned rooms filled with artworks by masters like Van Dyck, Titian, and Rubens. The baroque gardens, complete with elegant peacocks, are just as enchanting.

For lunch, take a boat ride to Isola Pescatori and enjoy a meal at one of the charming lakeside restaurants—Casa Bella is a standout for its inventive Italian dishes. Afterwards, continue to Isola Madre to explore another opulent villa and its gardens, home to a variety of exotic plants from around the world.

Lake Como

At the next major lake, use the town of Como as your base and enjoy a scenic stroll along the Chilometro della Conoscenza (kilometer of knowledge). This lakeside promenade winds through lush gardens and past three picturesque villas, offering stunning views of the shoreline along the way.

Afterward, visit the historic attractions in town, including a magnificent cathedral and several medieval churches, then wander through the cobblestone streets filled with indie shops, boutiques, wine bars, and terrace cafés. Be sure to ride the funicular from Como to Brunate for breathtaking mountain views. This area is also a hiker's paradise, with numerous trails to explore.

In the heart of Lake Como, you can embark on a day trip to three enchanting villages. Begin in Varenna, a charming waterfront town known for its pastel-colored buildings and winding alleys. Take a 25-minute hike up to Castello di Vezio for panoramic views of the rooftops and the glistening lake. A short boat ride away lies Bellagio, another delightful destination with its hilly pedestrian paths adorned with galleries and flower-filled restaurants. It's a joy to explore on foot, but consider joining a kayaking tour with Bellagio Water Sports for a unique view from the water.

End your day with a visit to Menaggio, located on the western shore of Lake Como. This quaint village features cobblestone streets perfect for wandering and a lakeside piazza ideal for an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink). Cafè del Pess is a beloved spot for enjoying an al fresco Campari spritz.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda boasts some of the most remarkable ruins among the Italian lakes. Situated on a finger-like peninsula near the southern tip, the stunning town of Sirmione is rich with historic sites. The Grotte di Catullo was once a grand villa dating back to the 1st century AD, and wandering through its hillside ruins evokes a sense of its former splendor. Jump ahead to the Rocca Scaligera, a beautifully preserved 14th-century castle. You can walk along the battlements for breathtaking views of the lake surrounding the castle on all sides. As the evening approaches, unwind at the Aquaria Thermal Spa, soaking in steaming open-air pools with picturesque lake views.

My top pick for fun in the Italian Lakes

I adore biking in Riva del Garda for its thrilling trails. One of my all-time favorite rides is the Via Ponale (also known as Strada del Ponale), a scenic 10km dirt path that winds along cliff edges and passes through tunnels, offering breathtaking views of the lake as it ascends. The route is well-marked, and there are plenty of spots to refuel, such as Ponale Alto Belvedere, where you can sip a drink on the terrace with an unbeatable view.

I prefer to rise early and ride all the way up to Lago di Ledro for a refreshing swim. While it used to require immense stamina to tackle the steep ascent, you can now rent a high-quality e-bike that makes the climb much easier. Local outfitters, including the fantastic Happy Bike, offer e-bike rentals in town.

What’s the budget for visiting the Italian lakes?

Visiting the Italian Lakes can be pricey, particularly in the summer when accommodation costs soar. To save money, consider skipping a rental car and opting for hostels or modest guesthouses. You can also cut down on food expenses by enjoying local markets and casual cafes instead of indulging in multi-course meals every time.

Estimated daily expenses

• Hostel accommodation: €48 (US$53)

• Standard room for two: starting at €140 (US$153)

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): starting at €110 (US$120)

• Ferry fare from Varenna to Bellagio: €4.60 (US$5)

• Train fare from Milan to Como: €5.20 (US$5.70)

• Cappuccino: €2.50 (US$2.75)

• Individual pizza: starting at €12 (US$13)

• Dinner for two: starting at €100 (US$109)

• Spritz (or similar cocktail): €8 (US$8.75)

What’s the best route to the lakes?

Milan offers excellent train connections to the lakes from various stations, including the stunning Stazione Centrale. Here are the approximate travel times by train from Milan: Como (one hour), Laveno Mombello Lago on Lake Maggiore (1.5 hours), and Desenzano del Garda on Lake Garda (1.5 hours).

Where can I find boat rentals?

You can rent motorboats from various operators at each lake. For watercraft up to 40hp, only a standard driver's license is needed. Como Lake Boats at the northern end of the lake provides excellent service and competitive pricing (though costs may be higher in tourist-heavy spots like Bellagio and Menaggio).

Rental rates begin at approximately €130 ($142) for two hours and €180 (US$196) for four hours, with minor discounts for extended rentals. Fuel charges will be added based on your usage at the end.

How are the beaches at the Italian Lakes?

The beaches by the lakes feature rocky shores with small to medium-sized pebbles. Many are complemented by grassy areas ideal for lounging and picnicking. However, if you're specifically looking for sandy beaches, these lakes may not meet your expectations.