The Lago Maggiore is one of the beautiful lakes in the North of Italy. Located between the boarder of Italy and Switzerland, it has shores in both countries. And yet, it is famous for travellers exploring the stunning North of Italy. Why? Because the Lago Maggiore has it all. From breathtaking mountain sceneries to cute little villages, markets and dreamy islands and beaches. But what are the best things to do at the Lago Maggiore? What should be on top of your to do list and what can you simply not miss?
Let´s go on a journey around the Lago and find out what this place is really about. Because the North of Italy really is (one of the) most beautiful parts of the country. And you´ll soon find out why.
Visit the beautiful city of Stresa, Lago Maggiore
Let´s start with one of the prettiest cities or places around the Lago Maggiore: Stresa. The city is located in a peaceful bay and a popular place for tourists and travellers to stay during their visit. But Stresa is much more than a great base for your adventures around the lake.
Stresa is not only a picturesque and romantic city, but as well full of histories and great things to do. You can stroll through the typical Italian alleys, relax in the traditional cafés and restaurants or do some shopping. There are a few public beaches where you can spend an afternoon in the sun (highly recommended). As there are not as many beaches around Italy´s lake as you would expect, this really is a highlight of Stresa.
As well, Stresa overlooks the three Borromean Islands, which are absolutely beautiful. You cannot only hop on a boat trip to the islands at almost any time of the day, but as well just enjoy the view from the main land. This is one of the reasons why Stresa offers some of the most beautiful views. Especially the bars along the waterside are worth the visit and you can enjoy a drink while soaking up the beautiful sight!
Stroll over the markets in Cannobio
Ready for some market strolls? You better be, because it actually is kind of a must-do when you´re in Italy. A Sunday on the market is absolutely one of the best things to do at the Lago Maggiore. And the best place to do so is in Cannobio, a cute little town shortly before the boarder to Italy.
Cannbio is not only popular for its market, but as well for the pretty architecture and the picturesque streets. But on Sundays, it´s all about the market. You will find the vendors around the main street by the lakeside. And be prepared: there are a lot of them. If you´re expecting a small and idyllic market, you´re wrong. Cannobio offers quite a lot, so take your time to have a look.
If you need a break, you can choose one of the nearby bars and restaurants and enjoy a drink in the cute town. So yes, there is definitely more to the place than just the market and you can as well plan a visit if you´re not in the area for the weekend.
Enjoy the views from Mount Mottarone
What is better than getting a view from above? At Lago Maggiore one of the best things to do for some breathtaking views is a trip to the top of Mount Mottarone, in Stresa. Until the dramatic accident in the beginning of 2021, there used to be a red gondola bringing the tourists to the top from Stresa. But since then, it is closed and the only way is either by joining a tour bus or by car.
From Stresa, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. The streets are good, but still you need to be a safe driver. Especially if you are driving in the middle of the day with lots of other cars going up and down.
At the top, you can have a nice dinner or lunch in the restaurant or simply walk around and enjoy the incredible view. On a clear day you can see the Lago di Como and quite a lot of Italy´s and Switzerland´s landscape – really a view to remember.
Rent a boat and drive over the lake by yourself
The best way to move around the lake is by boat – what else? While you can book a boat trip or even a water taxi, it is a totally different experience to drive over the Italian lake by yourself. Boat rentals are quite common around the lake and you can basically rent a boat in any town. Most frequent are the rentals around Cannobbio and the Northern part of the lake.
The price varies from the time you wish to rent the boat and the type of boat you are choosing. For most boats you do not need a license and it is best to rent it for about two hours in the late afternoon. Make sure to bring your swim wear and jump into the water.
Go on a trip to the Borromean Islands
The Borromean Islands are located in front of Stresa. While it is best to book the trip from Stresa, you can also find tours from any given place at the lake.
The three Borromean Islands are absolutely one of the best things to do at the Lago Maggiore. They are worth the visit and offer three totally different experiences – it is up to you which island you choose.
The Isola Bella is the largest of the three islands and also, the most popular one. It is home to the beautiful palace with the big garden. You can get tickets to enter the whole area (which cost around 20-30€). If you do not want to pay such a high price to get inside the building and the garden, it is still worth to visit the island. There are a few cafés and restaurants, as well as cute shops and places to sit and enjoy the view.
The Isola Pescatori is your number one destination for a perfect Italian lunch. The island basically consists of restaurants only. The choice is yours! Of course, it is recommended to choose a restaurant from which you can overlook the water. Apart from eating, there are as well small shops and even a little beach where you can relax for a few hours. The Isola Pescatori is (for photographers) the most photogenic one and you could spend an hour only walking through the alleys and taking pictures. Therefore, make sure you are on a flexible time schedule and do not have to rush back to your boat.
And last but not least, the Isola Madre. The Isola Madre is only accessible with a ticket and you need to pay directly at the entrance as it only consists of a palace with a garden. Still, it is beautiful but if you are deciding between the three islands, go for one of the other two.
Spend the day at the beach – the most relaxing thing to do at the Lago Maggiore
Of course, after all these adventures and activities around the lake, it is time for some relaxation. If you are lucky and get to spend some sunny days at Lago Maggiore, definitely plan an afternoon at the beach. The beaches are mostly stony and can be found directly next to the street. They are small but you will always find a spot for yourself.
Enjoying the Italian sun and the beautiful views over the water and the mountains really is a moment to remember. And you know: among all the travelling and exploring, there should always be time for some quiet moments to just enjoy and realize where you are right now.
One of the best things to do at Lago Maggiore or Italy: have a pizza night
Is it really a trip to Italy without a pizza night? Surely, feel free to have pizza every night when at the Lago Maggiore. Why? Because life is short and it´s time to start enjoying it!
There are great pizzerias at every corner. If you want the best advice, ask in your hotel or homestay for a recommendation. The locals always know the best insider tips!
Stroll through the picturesque village of Cannero Rivera
And another village for your list. Cannero Rivera is located about 10 minutes from Cannobio and a cute little town off the road. There even is one of the most popular camping grounds of the lake and some stunning luxurious hotels directly by the water.
But even if you are not staying in Cannero, it is worth a visit. As it is only a short drive from Cannobio, you can perfectly fit it into your itinerary. It is ideal for a lunch by the lake or just a stroll with some ice cream.
Watch the sun rise over the lake
Once during your trip, you should set the alarm early. Depending on which side of the lake you´re staying, the sunrise is absolutely stunning and one of the best things to do at the Lago Maggiore. If you are staying in Stresa or Cannobbio or somewhere in between, it should be on your list.
If you love the Lago Maggiore, check out more information on Lago di Como – you´ll love it!
