Discover Lake Maggiore's Top Attractions

Just north of Milan, Lake Maggiore extends into Switzerland's Ticino region. Though it's the second-largest lake in Northern Italy, it boasts the stunning Borromean Islands, which are a major draw for visitors.

The lake's mild climate supports a variety of subtropical species, and exploring the gardens, taking boat excursions, and enjoying the lakeside towns are popular activities. To fully experience the lake, consider renting a car, which also makes day trips to nearby Lake Orta convenient.

Here's a guide to the top sights around Lake Maggiore:

1. Tour Isola Bella

Isola Bella is famous for its 17th-century palace and Italian-style gardens. The palace houses impressive state apartments and grottoes, while the terraced gardens offer lush vegetation and panoramic views.

2. Visit Villa Taranto

Villa Taranto's English-style gardens feature over 20,000 plant varieties, including the remarkable Dahlia Maze and giant waterlilies.

3. Take a Boat Trip on Lake Maggiore

Boat services connect the towns along Lake Maggiore, offering a unique perspective of the attractions. Excursions to the Borromean Islands and the Swiss part of the lake are available.

4. Ride the Monte Mottarone Cable Car

The cable car from Stresa to Monte Mottarone provides stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the Alps. A chairlift takes you to the summit for even more breathtaking scenery.

5. Isola Madre

Isola Madre is known for its English-style gardens and a villa with a collection of marionettes and 17th-century art.

6. Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso and Laveno

The hermitage of St. Catherine is a 13th-century marvel built into a cliff. Nearby Laveno offers a unique bucket gondola ride to Sasso del Ferro for impressive views.

7. Wander around Isola dei Pescatori

This simple fishing village offers a charming atmosphere and restaurants specializing in lake fish.

8. Rocca d'Angera

The medieval Rocca d'Angera castle houses an extensive collection of dolls and toys, as well as a recreated medieval garden.

9. Stresa

Stresa, the largest resort town on the lake, is known for its upscale ambiance and beautiful promenade with views of the Borromean Islands.

10. Villa Pallavicino

A mix of botanical garden and zoo, Villa Pallavicino features exotic plants and animals in a picturesque setting.

11. Cannobio and Cannero Riviera

Cannobio is a historic town with a miraculous picture in the Santuario della Pietà, while Cannero Riviera is known for its mild climate and beautiful beach.

12. San Carlone (San Carlo Borromeo Statue)

The colossal statue of St. Charles Borromeo offers a unique experience of climbing inside for panoramic views.

13. Lake Orta

The serene Lake Orta and the medieval town of Orta San Giulio are less frequented by tourists, offering a peaceful retreat with a UNESCO-listed sacred mountain.

14. Day Trip to Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Zermatt and the iconic Matterhorn are accessible for a day trip from Lake Maggiore, offering alpine scenery and charming Swiss culture.

Where to Stay around Lake Maggiore for Sightseeing

For a luxurious stay, consider Il Sole Di Ranco or Hotel Splendid in Baveno. Budget travelers can enjoy Hotel Alpi, and families may prefer Hotel Cannobio for its proximity to the beach.

For more travel inspiration, explore the gardens of Lake Como or the attractions of Lugano, Locarno, and the Ticino region in Switzerland. If you're venturing to Milan, check out the top tourist attractions and the best day trips from the city.