You don’t get any dreamier than the lakes in northern Italy.
Crystal lake waters combine with a backdrop of Alpine peaks and valleys dotted with greenery, pastel-hued villages, and landmarks steeped in legends and history. And whether you’re taking all of this in from the shores or out on the water, you’ll wish you could drift for weeks from lake to lake.
I’ve been fortunate to spend many days exploring all the northern Italy lakes in this guide. In particular, my house isn’t far from Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore. Even Lake Como can be visited on a spontaneous day trip!
So, let me take you on a tour of these gorgeous lakes so you know more about what makes each one so special. Andiamo!
Map of the Lakes in Northern Italy
The map of lakes in northern Italy above shows you where each one is.
For this guide and map, you’ll find the 5 major lakes of the Italian Lakes Region. These include (from west to east) Lake Orta, Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Iseo, and Lake Garda. These lakes touch 4 of the 8 regions of northern Italy starting with Piedmont in the west.
On the map and below, you’ll also find a few additional lakes that also deserve to be mentioned. These are Lake Braies, Lake Misurina, Lake Resia, Lake Dobbiaco, and Lake Varese.
Let’s dive into each one. (I couldn’t resist that one!)
Lake Como (Lago di Como)
Lake Como, known in Italian as Lago di Como, is the third-largest lake in Italy, nestled at the foot of the Alps. This picturesque lake, shaped like an inverted Y, divides the region into three sections. The towns of Como and Lecco are on the southwestern and southeastern ends of the lake, respectively. At the middle, where each side of the “Y” meets, you’ll find the luxurious town of Bellagio. Varenna and Menaggio are on opposite shores and form a triangle along with Bellagio.
Known for its glamour and posh vibe, Lake Como is a favorite retreat for the rich and famous, with many celebrities owning homes there. The elegance of the waterfront villages, historic villas, medieval landmarks, upscale dining, shopping, and accommodations make it a high-end destination.
Popular towns like Bellagio and Menaggio are pricier than the larger Como or more distant towns, with 5-star hotel rooms in peak season reaching thousands of dollars a night. However, smaller boutique hotels offer more affordable options.
At Lake Como, you can enjoy traditional sightseeing at grand cathedrals, art and history museums, nature walks, private boat tours, and leisurely strolls through villages that seem straight from the pages of an enchanting fable.
While restaurants and activities can be costly depending on your plans, getting to Lake Como is relatively inexpensive by train from cities like Milan or Bergamo.
Lake Como Highlights
- Go on a boat tour from Bellagio: Bellagio is known as the “Pearl of Lake Como. For a scenic and swanky experience, cruise the waters of the lake to see its villas, villages, and natural beauty like a hidden waterfall.
- See Lake Como from above on a funicular ride: Take a 7-minute funicular ride from Como to the mountaintop village of Brunate, reaching over 2,300 feet and offering stunning views of Lake Como and its colorful villages.
- Travel back in time at Lake Como’s historical landmarks: Visit Duomo di Como and Basilica di San Fedele in the city of Como. These impressive structures were built in Romanesque and Gothic styles, with the Basilica dating back to the 1100s.
- See the majestic villas of Lake Como: One of the best things to do in Bellagio is to stroll through the gardens at Villa Melzi. I also love Villa Monastero in Varenna. The gardens and the views are spectacular! Villa del Balbianello is positioned on a bluff above the shoreline in the town of Lenno. This villa offers breathtaking views of the lake and its Alpine background. (To see inside the villa, you must book a tour timeslot.) Visit the 17th-century Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina with vast gardens on Lake Como’s western shores, south of Menaggio and across from Bellagio.
- Do as the locals do: Enjoy an aperitivo in front of the lake at Piazza Garibaldi in Menaggio. Having stayed in Menaggio on my very first trip to Lake Como, I honestly could’ve just sat in this square all day! Take a gelato and stroll along Via Calvi. You can window shop at the boutiques and, during the summer, there’s a Friday night market featuring artists’ handicrafts. If you can, take a moment to pop inside St. Stevens Church. The frescoes inside are lovely!
Hidden Gems in Lake Como
- Windsurf and explore the small, charming town of Domaso on the lake’s northwestern shores.
- Make the challenging hike up Mount Berlinghera from San Bartolomeo and enjoy a swing on a rustic wooden swing along the way facing the breathtaking views of the lake.
- Take a step back to medieval times in the tiny village of Corenno Plinio, with its walled castle and history-themed walks.
- Hike at Parco Val Sanagra above Menaggio. You can start on foot from Piazza Garibaldi to get to the park. Once there, some points offer views of the lake while others are surrounded by greenery, a river, and historic ruins that’ll make you feel miles from Lake Como.
How to Get There from Milan
- There are lots of options whether you want to take a day trip to Lake Como from Milan or plan to stay for a few days. Hop on a train from Milan Centrale Station and get off at Como San Giovanni, Como’s main station, or take the train to Varenna-Esino Station and make the short walk into town and to the ferry pier.
Getting Around Lake Como
As much as possible, use public transportation to navigate between different parts of the lake. Especially in peak season, the small roads are congested and parking becomes a major challenge.
- By public boat ride: Navigazione Laghi operates public boat trips on Lake Como, offering a fantastic way to see the lake. Be sure to book your tickets on their website ahead of the peak season.
- By train: On the western side of the lake, only the town of Como has two train stations. However, traveling by train on the eastern side is much simpler, with numerous stations where you can get off.
Lake Garda (Lago di Garda)
Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and it’s a beauty! It’s split between 3 regions of northern Italy, Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige. Lago di Garda is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, biking, sailing, climbing, paragliding, diving, windsurfing, and other water sports. The lakeshore is also ripe with history! Lake Garda’s castles and Roman ruins are among some of the top attractions.
Along with Lake Como, Lake Garda is one of the most visited lakes of Northern Italy. Even so, there are smaller towns around the lake that are more relaxed and less touristy than parts of Lake Como, perfect if you’re looking to relax. On the other hand, Sirmione is the most popular place to visit along Lake Garda. Be sure to do so but plan for more visitors than lake points further north.
The towns around Lake Garda are so scenic, with stunning views of the lake set against the Italian Alps. In addition to Sirmione, I love Malcensine, Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda, and Torri del Benaco. If your time at Lake Garda is limited, planning time in these spots will help you see some of the prettiest spots around Lake Garda!
Lake Garda Highlights
- Step back in time at Sirmione: Located at the southern tip of Lake Garda, the town of Sirmione is popular for its historical sightseeing where you can marvel at the 13th-century Scaligero castle that looks as if it’s floating on the lake, Roman villa ruins, and archaeological museum. The 1st-century Roman ruins, quite honestly, took my breath away! It’s a large area of ruins with the gorgeous lake in the background.
- Ride the cable car to the top of Mount Baldo in Malcesine: For panoramic views of Lake Garda, take the cable car up Mount Baldo and enjoy the stunning lake vista with its deep blue waters. In Malcesine, stroll along the lakefront promenade to explore the town and its medieval castle.
- Try exciting water sports at Riva del Garda: If you’re up for adding some thrill to your Garda trip, you can go windsurfing and kitesurfing at Upper Garda. Just be sure to save some time to hike to the ruins at the Bastione. The payoff is amazing views over Riva del Garda and the lake! (There’s also a funicular if you’d rather skip the walk.)
- See the limonaias in Limone sul Garda: Take the short tour at the Limonaia del Castel to learn about how lemons are grown here and for beautiful lake views. Then, take a bike ride (you can also walk) on the elevated lake path. It’s one of the prettiest spots anywhere at Lake Garda.
- Sip fine wines in Bardolino: Treat your taste buds to a wine tour and tasting experience in Bardolino. Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy sampling a selection of fine wines.
Hidden Gems in Lake Garda
- Cross the Tibetan Bridge near Torri del Benaco.
- See the Ponale Waterfall by boat tucked away in Riva del Garda.
- Take a side trip to the medieval town of Villa Canale to feel as if you’ve been transported back in time!
- Marvel at the natural beauty of Punta San Vigilio, with its cypress and olive trees and beautiful Lake Garda beach, Baia delle Sirene.
How to Get There
- Direct trains are available from Verona, Milan, and Venice but only Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda have train stations along the lake. From these stations, you can take local buses and ferries to visit other towns.
- By car, Lake Garda’s southernmost town, Sirmione, is less than 2 hours from Milan and Venice, and only 45 minutes from Verona. There are a lot of advantages to having a car to explore Lake Garda. But be strategic. Use central spots with good ferry access to park your car instead of moving it and needing to find parking in each town or place you want to visit.
Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore)
Lake Maggiore sits in the shadow of Lake Como and Lake Garda and what a pity because many visitors leave without realizing what a gorgeous sight they’re missing! As Italy’s second-largest lake, it boasts breathtaking landscapes that span across the Lombardy and Piedmont regions, as well as Switzerland.
As you visit popular spots on and along the lake, like the Borromean Islands and Lake Maggiore towns like Stresa, Verbania, and Baveno, you might feel as if you’ve traveled back about 100 years. Some of the hotels, in particular, look and feel quite lavish but from a bygone era. And this only adds to the charm of the overall experience.
The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and rolling hills which help to create a milder climate for the lake. (I’m always surprised to see palm trees!) What sets Lago Maggiore apart from the other northern Italian lakes is that its roads run right at water level, making it more accessible, with plenty of scenic views along the way.
Like Lake Como and Lake Garda, there are plenty of things to see and do at Lake Maggiore. You can easily spend a few days here exploring the small towns around the lake, visiting the Borromean Islands, and enjoying the many outdoor activities like hiking and boating. Personally, I love visiting Lake Maggiore, and no matter how many times I drive down the winding road that leads into the town of Stresa, I still can’t get over how dazzling the lake and its surrounding mountains are!
Lake Maggiore Highlights
- Cruise the Borromean Islands from Stresa: From a town like Stresa, boats ferry you around the Borromean Islands, Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori. Isola Bella, in particular, is home to the beautiful Palazzo Borromeo and its gardens complete with white peacocks. Aside from the spectacular gardens, my favorite spots are the grottoes painstakingly made from rocks and shells from the lake and the exquisite tapestries before exiting into the gardens. If you’re hungry, take a boat to Isola Pescatori. It’s an island almost entirely of places to eat with beautiful lake views. (*Isola Pescatori is open all year but Isola Bella and Isola Madre are open from late March to late October/early November.)
- Marvel at the botanical wonders at Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto: Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of Villa Taranto in Verbania, where you’ll find an exotic herbarium, a stunning lotus collection, and a vibrant dahlia maze in full bloom.
- Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Sacro Monte of Ghiffa is near Verbania and is 1 of the 9 chapel complexes recognized by UNESCO throughout the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy. This complex is the smallest, with only 3 chapels. From the top, though, you get beautiful views overlooking Lake Maggiore. You can drive up to the top or make the moderately difficult hike up along the mule track.
- Go back in time at a medieval fortress: On the eastern shores of Lake Maggiore, the Rocca di Angera is an impressive medieval castle with remarkably preserved 14th-century frescoes. There’s also a doll museum inside. But the views from the fortress overlooking Lake Maggiore will take your breath away.
Hidden Gems in Lake Maggiore
- Cannero Riviera is a tiny gem on the western shore of the lake north of Verbania. Walk the pretty lakeside promenade. Hike into the hills to discover villages perched overhead. Then, go by boat to see the ruins of the castles of Cannero.
- Head to Laveno Mombello on Lake Maggiore’s eastern shore in Lombardy to ride the bucket cable car up to Mount Sasso del Ferro for sweeping lake views. Save time for a side trip to Villa Della Porta Bozzolo, a sumptuous rococo-style mansion with a beautiful garden just next to Lake Maggiore.
- Take a swim in Lake Maggiore. There are beaches and designated swimming areas all around the lake. Points further north have the clearest water and less boat traffic. Just be sure to always follow local signposts with swimming rules and alerts. Cannobio and Cannero Riviera have been recognized as Blue Flag beaches for their clean water and safe conditions.
How to Get There
- Getting to Lake Maggiore from Milan is easy. Trains run between Milan Centrale and Milan Porta Garibaldi to popular points like Stresa, Baveno, and Verbania.
- Once you’re at the lake, getting around is easy with boat services. I highly recommend keeping your car parked as much as possible! Towns like Stresa have limited parking, and on weekends especially, it can be a major challenge to find parking after people have arrived in the morning and set off on their day.
Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta)
Lake Orta is tucked into northern Italy’s Piedmont region sitting in the foothills of the Alps, part of the famed Italian Lakes District. Surprisingly, despite its proximity to popular destinations like Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, it’s often overlooked by tourists. Known as Lago d’Orta in Italian, it’s just a 30-minute jaunt from Lake Maggiore and 90 minutes from Lake Como. If you’ve already explored Lake Maggiore, adding Lake Orta to your itinerary is a must.
This picturesque lake region has inspired countless literary works with its undeniable charm and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by rolling hills and sparkling waters, Lake Orta is often hailed as the most romantic lake in Italy. Even if you have just a day to spend at Lake Orta, this tiny gem will surprise you for all the right reasons!
Lake Orta Highlights
- Spend time in the medieval village of Orta San Giulio: Wander the cobblestone lanes of Orta San Giulio and stumble upon small shops, small ancient churches, and hidden-away spots that you only discover by venturing through a building’s archway or a narrow alley. Make your way to Piazza Motta. The town’s main square sits on the shores of Lake Orta and is one of the prettiest you’ll see in any little town. It really feels like walking onto a movie set! Sit at one of the restaurants to enjoy lunch or an aperitivo and savor the ambiance.
- Visit the only island on Lake Orta: Isola San Giulio is a peaceful, gem of an island just a few minutes by boat from Orta San Giulio’s main square, Piazza Motta. On the island, you’ll find the Basilica di San Giulio with its beautiful frescoes and a Benedictine monastery where a group of nuns lives a life of solitude and prayer. Walk the circular path around the island, known as the “Way of Silence,” for a few minutes of your own quiet reflection.
- Stroll through the blooming gardens of Villa Motta: Just a short walk from Piazza Motta, the gardens of Villa Motta showcase 250 varieties of camellias that bloom year-round. I haven’t toured the inside of the private villa, although it’s possible to do so by emailing or messaging to request a visit. Find more info here.
- Visit the Sacro Monte di Orta: This group of chapels is part of the 9 chapel complexes that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sitting above Lake Orta in a panoramic position, the chapels tell the story of the life of St. Francis of Assisi. Inside the chapels, you’ll find life-size sculptures and detailed frescoes, each one created over many years, starting in the 16th century. From this vantage point also, you’ll have sweeping views of Lake Orta and Isola San Giulio.
Lake Orta Hidden Gems
- Spot the superb painted murals in Legro (the painted village) from different movies set in the Lake Orta area.
- Orta San Giulio is home to 2 Michelin Star restaurants, Villa Crespi (3 stars!) and Locanda di Orta (1 star).
- Omegna is the largest town along the lake and has an interesting natural sight. Its Nigoglia River flows north toward the Alps before eventually joining with the Strona River and emptying into Lake Maggiore. Locals call it “the river that runs upwards.”
How to Get There
- Lake Orta is about 90 minutes by car from both Turin and Milan, making it a great option for a day trip.
- The nearest train station to Orta San Giulio is the Orta-Miasino station. Trains run from Milan and Turin. From here, it’s about a 25-minute walk to Piazza Motta. You can also take a bus (Line 5) or a taxi to get you closer to the historic town center. Keep in mind, Orta San Giulio is pedestrians-only in the historic center in and around Piazza Motta.
Lake Iseo (Lago d’Iseo)
Located in the Lombardy region in Northern Italy, just an hour’s drive from Milan, Lake Iseo is another tranquil gem that sits by the cities of Brescia and Bergamo. Although quieter and not as well known as its more famous neighbors Lake Como and Lake Garda, Lake Iseo’s charm lies in its tranquility and natural beauty.
Lago d’Iseo is known for its unspoiled natural environment surrounded by the lush green mounts of the Alps. The coastal towns are peaceful and have everything you need to enjoy your visit, from cafes and restaurants to quaint shops and historical buildings.
This charming lake region is also the perfect destination for outdoor adventures like trekking, cycling, and swimming.
Lake Iseo Highlights
- Spend time at Monte Isola: This largest inhabited island among any of the European lakes has a lively community and a charming lakefront filled with shops and restaurants. As you explore, wander through narrow alleyways and discover stone villages and colorful houses. You can also hike or even make your way to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola. (There’s also a bus that takes you near the top.)
- Explore one the most beautiful villages in Italy, Lovere: This charming town on Lake Iseo features the 15th-century Basilica of S. Maria in Valvendra, the Civic Tower, Galleria dell’Accademia Tadini, and numerous elegant buildings.
- Hike the Ancient Valeriana Road: Go on a challenging yet rewarding full-day hike along the Eastern side of Lake Iseo, covering roughly 15 miles from Pilzone d’Iseo to Pisogne. Enjoy stunning lake views, serene nature, and highlights like the naturally formed Piramidi at Zone and dinosaur footprints near Passo Croce di Zone along the way.
- Enjoy a day under the sun on one of Lake Iseo’s beaches: Soak up the sun on Lake Iseo’s free beaches at Paratico, La Spiaggetta di Iseo, Sulzano, Monte Isola, or Sale Marasino for a perfect day by the water.
- Taste Franciacorta: This sparkling wine is produced around Lake Iseo. It’s aged longer than Prosecco and develops a more complex flavor profile. It’s a must-try when you’re visiting Lake Iseo!
Hidden Gems in Lake Iseo
- Visit the Parish Church of San Zenone, showcasing exquisite Rococo style and dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen at Sale Marasino.
- See the frescoes of Romanino at the Romanesque Parish Church of San Pietro in Tavernola Bergamasca.
- Bike along the Vello-Toline Bicycle Path, flanked by majestic mountains and the serene lake.
How to Get There
- Lake Iseo is conveniently accessible from Milan by taking a train to Brescia and then transferring to a regional train bound for Iseo. If you’re traveling from Bergamo, you’ll also need to pass through Brescia and switch to a regional train.
- If you’re driving, you can park in towns like Iseo or Sulzano and then take a boat onto the lake to Monte Isola
A Few More Italian Lakes in Northern Italy to Know…
Aside from the 5 Italian Lakes listed above, northern Italy has many smaller lakes. These lakes, though, are more suited to day trips or even stops as part of a day’s outing. There aren’t lakes with towns lining the shores but notable particularly because of their natural beauty.
Lake Braies
Sitting almost 5,000 feet above sea level, the most famous of these, for sure, is Lago di Braies in the Dolomites. The lake has actually become an Instagram celebrity because of how picturesque it is. It’s a well-deserved honor, though, because the lake is the perfect combination of turquoise-green water and the snow-flecked steely gray of the tightly packed mountains surrounding it. Top that off with a wooden dock and a string of red canoes and it’s hard to find a prettier scene.
You can enjoy the beauty and atmosphere of Lake Braies in just a few hours if you plan to hike and boat. There’s an easy trail around the lake that takes about 60-90 minutes to complete depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos, which if you’re like me is a lot! In the summer, you can also rent a boat to paddle out on the lake. If you want to do this, start your day at the lake because it gets crowded in season and boats are rented quickly.
It’s possible to swim at some of the “beach” areas around the lake but be warned! The water is very cold!
You can easily visit nearby lakes like Lake Dobbiaco and Lake Misurina to plan a full day of lake outings. There’s also plenty of hiking nearby, including the 2-hour hike (one-way) to beautiful Lago di Sorapis.
ProTip: The best way to reach Lake Braies is by car. It’s important to know that there are multiple languages spoken in this region. If you’re navigating to the lake with an app, the name “Pragser Wildsee” may come up. This is the name for Lake Braies in German. In English, it’s Lake Prags. As you travel throughout the Dolomites, keep in mind many places have names in Italian and German.
Lake Resia
It’s not every day you see a lake that has a bell tower sticking out of it! This is exactly what makes Lago di Resia (Reschensee in German) one of the most unusual lakes in northern Italy. The lake, which sits in the Val Venosta very close to the border with Switzerland and Austria, is actually manmade.
In the 1950s, the decision was made to combine 2 lakes into the reservoir you see today. But by doing this, the town of Curon was flooded and now sits at the bottom of the lake. The only thing you can see is part of the steeple standing tall above the water. Local lore says, at times, the chiming of bells can be heard from below the water.
Despite the mysterious legends, Lake Resia is beautiful and has no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Kayaks and paddle boats are available to rent and the lake is a great spot to kitesurf and windsurf. You can also fish, cycle, or just enjoy the gorgeous scenery!
For a bit of hiking, take the 9.6-mile trail around the lake. The path is mostly flat and paved, which also makes it good for bikes.
Lake Misurina
Also located in the Dolomites, Lago di Misurina (Misurinasee in German) sits at over 5,700 feet above sea level. It’s close to Lake Braies, just 40 minutes by car, so it’s possible to see both lakes on the same day. The lake is also only 30 minutes from the posh town of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
As with other lakes in this part of northern Italy, there’s a 1.5-mile loop trail around the lake that takes less than an hour to complete. On a sunny day, you’ll get to see the Tre Cime peaks reflecting on the water. It’s a great spot to see these beautiful mountain peaks without doing the actual Tre Cime hike.
You can also ride the Col de Varda chairlift up to the scenic overlook for jaw-dropping views of the Dolomites and Lake Misurina. At the top, you’ll also see several trails setting off into the mountains.
Lake Dobbiaco
Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See in German) is a small, beautiful mountain lake just 20 minutes from Lake Braies. Both lakes have the same emerald-colored water and mountain scenery, but Lake Dobbiaco offers a much more laid-back experience away from the crowds that visit Lake Braies.
You’ll want to start your visit at the northern side of the lake which is where the parking area also is. From here, you can really take in the lake’s natural beauty, including the greenery carpeting the mountain peaks.
Similar to other lakes, you can walk the path around the lake. It’s flat and easy to do in an hour. The lake also has pedal boats for rent and a rocky beach area where you can dip your toe (or even take a plunge) into the chilly waters and soak up some sun.
The lake could also be a great place to have lunch. You’ll see a few restaurants, and together with the lake’s relaxed vibe, you can sit and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
Lake Sorapis
Of these 5 special northern Italy lakes, some may say that I’ve saved the best for last! Lake Sorapis is one of those mountain lakes that is so beautiful when you first see it that you can’t even believe what your eyes are telling you. Perhaps, then, it’s fitting that it takes some work to arrive at the lake.
To get there, you must do the moderately-difficult 7.5-mile round-trip hike. You’ll likely need about 5 hours total to hike there and back. The trail is marked as #215 from the trailhead at Passo Tre Croci.
The hike begins easily enough but does climb in elevation. Along the way, you’ll have to navigate up some metal stairs and wooden-planked walkways both of which can be close to the edge of the mountain. So if you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the right hike for you. All in all, though, if you’re wearing hiking boots and bring along hiking poles for the more tricky sections of terrain, it’s more than doable.
Plus, the payoff is huge! Lake Sorapis is stunning. And people…and social media…have taken notice. Even with its length, the hike has become more popular so you’re almost guaranteed to have others on the trail with you.
There’s no swimming or boating at the lake but you can stop for a snack or drink at the refuge just near Lake Sorapis.
Don’t Miss Seeing Northern Italy’s Lakes!
I might be biased but you’ll find some of the most beautiful lakes here in northern Italy! If you’re planning a trip to Italy and you are in search of the Dolce Vita, don’t hesitate. Make your way to the Italian lakes region or into the Dolomites where you can have your pick of the best lakes with stunning landscapes and the perfect atmosphere to soak up the vibe of one of northern Italy’s biggest treasures.
