Discover Italy's Enchanting Lakes

Italy is home to over 1,500 lakes, from the Alpine gems to the solitary natural lake in Calabria. The northern lakes are particularly renowned, with Lake Como being the deepest at 410 meters, and Lake Garda the largest, covering 370 square kilometers. Lake Maggiore, partially in Switzerland, is the second largest.

These lakes are hubs for water sports and are surrounded by hotels and resorts. They're not just for play; they're also lined with historic attractions and stunning scenery. Hiking trails, panoramic views, and UNESCO sites add to their allure, while Lake Bolsena in the south offers excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Whether you're drawn to the glamour of Lake Como, the family-friendly Lake Garda, or the picturesque Lago Blu, Italy's lakes offer a wealth of activities and sights.

1. Lake Como

Lake Como has long been a retreat for the elite, from ancient Romans to modern celebrities. Its Y-shaped form features the chic town of Bellagio at its center. The town of Como, a former Roman city, boasts a Romanesque cathedral and a cable car with alpine views. Boats connect Como to other lakeside towns, and the region is known for its lush gardens and villas.

2. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a favorite for water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. The southern shores are ideal for kayaking, and the surrounding mountains offer hiking trails. Families enjoy the area's beaches, resorts, and theme parks, while the town of Sirmione boasts a castle and Roman ruins.

3. Lake Maggiore

Shared with Switzerland, Lake Maggiore's attractions are mostly on the Italian side. Towns like Stresa serve as gateways to the Borromean Islands, with their grand palaces and gardens. The lake offers fewer beaches but is perfect for canoeing and kayaking, with cruises available to enjoy the scenery.

4. Lake Orta

Lake Orta, overshadowed by its larger neighbors, is a romantic spot with the charming town of Orta San Giulio and the island of Isola San Giulio, home to a 12th-century basilica. The Sacra Monte, with its chapels, offers a unique cultural experience.

5. Lake Lugano

Straddling Italy and Switzerland, Lake Lugano is surrounded by rugged, forested shores and mountains. The Italian town of Porlezza is known for its beach and campgrounds, and boats are available for lake exploration.

6. Lake Iseo

Between Garda and Como, Lake Iseo is a haven for water sports and has a quaint castle and church in Iseo town. Monte Isola, the lake's island, offers a pilgrimage church and a fishing village.

7. Pragser Wildsee (Lago di Braies)

In South Tyrol, Pragser Wildsee is a stunning lake surrounded by Dolomite peaks, offering hiking trails and boat rentals for a serene experience.

8. Lake Bolsena

View from the port of Capodimonte on Lake Bolsena

Europe's largest volcanic lake, Bolsena is known for its beaches and water sports. It's also a bird-watching hotspot, with the island of Bisentina accessible by ferry.