What are the main Italian Lakes?

The group is composed of (from west to east): Lake Orta, Lake Maggiore, Lake Varese, Lake Lugano, Lake Como, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro and Lake Garda. The three largest are all well over 100 km2, they are: Lake Garda (largest in Italy), Lake Maggiore (largest in southern Switzerland) and Lake Como.



The "Italian Lake District" in Northern Italy is home to five major lakes, each with a distinct character. Lake Garda is the largest and most popular for families and adventure sports, known for its clear waters and the medieval town of Sirmione. Lake Como is the most famous and glamorous, characterized by its "Y" shape, dramatic mountain backdrops, and opulent villas like Villa Balbianello. Lake Maggiore is the second largest, shared with Switzerland, and is famous for the stunning Borromean Islands and their botanical gardens. Lake Iseo is a "hidden gem" located between Garda and Como, featuring Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe. Finally, Lake Orta is a smaller, tranquil lake often called "Cinderella" for its quiet beauty and the mystical island-village of Isola San Giulio. In 2026, these lakes remain a top destination for those seeking a blend of Mediterranean climate, Alpine scenery, and world-class Italian gastronomy, with easy rail connections from Milan and Verona.

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Lake Garda and Lake Como – two supremely beautiful locations, flanked by gloriously ornate homes and hotels. Check in to one of these, and you'll be living the Italian highlife in no time.

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It does not have to be expensive, but can be if you want it to be expensive. Typically I pay abot €11 for lunch in a bar and about €15 for dinner in a trattoria for dinner in the evening (both including wine). Restaurants will be more expensive.

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Further north, one of the most beautiful areas to live on Lake Maggiore is the village of Cannero Riviera. The village is famous and appreciated for its particularly mild microclimate, which favours the flourishing of luxuriant Mediterranean scrub.

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The Price of visiting Lake Como and Lake Maggiore The Italian Lakes are definitely not a budget destination, however, there are ways to make a trip there more affordable. Due to the increased popularity, Lake Como is more expensive than Lake Maggiore in terms of accommodation and food.

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Most locals are happy to lie down and soak up the sun's rays but if you like to take a dip to cool off, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming in the four lakes where the water has passed official water quality tests: Maggiore, Mergozzo, Monate and Orta.

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If you love exploring small towns and villages and are willing to spend a bit more for that high-end, luxury experience, Lake Como is the best destination for you. However, if you're looking to enjoy a magical holiday with your children and grandchildren, Lake Garda is the right choice for your family.

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The western shore of Italy's most celebrated and arguably most beautiful lake, is generally considered the superior one.

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Lake Orta is arguably one of the most heavenly spots in northern Italy. Set in peaceful surroundings in the foothills of the Alps, there's plenty to explore in the area, including its famous sister lakes – Como and Maggiore.

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Lago di Molveno in Italy is not only one of the best lakes for swimming, it is also the cleanest lake of all. The water in this crystal clear lake comes directly from the Presena gletsjer and is wonderfully refreshing. It is not a coincidence that the Molveno lake is also called 'pearl of the Dolomites'.

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Big is beautiful when it comes to the Italian Lakes. But small is perhaps even more beautiful, and certainly more intimate and less visited. So forgo the major lakes – the famous trio of Como, Maggiore and Garda – and consider instead the largely unsung quartet of Idro, Iseo, Varese and Orta.

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Hiking around Lago Maggiore is one of the best ways to experience more of the landscape, although finding the right route is not always easy.

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Bellagio. Probably the most renowned destination on Lake Como, Bellagio is another pretty town that you really cannot miss when visiting the area. Located right in the middle of the lake, Bellagio has the most unique setting that distinguishes it from any other town on Lake Como.

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Stay in less-touristy towns and villages Argegno is a village on the western shores of the lake. It's a quiet place with only a few amenities, making it a great choice for those seeking a different side to Lake Como. Here, you can amble down the cobbled alleyways without bumping into big people left and right.

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Its beautiful countryside, architectural gems and mild climate combine to make Stresa one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. The Borromean Islands, with their stunning palaces and ornamental gardens, are an unmissable destination for aesthetes.

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If Lake Como is for relaxation plus some adventure, then the Amalfi Coast area is the opposite — plenty of adventure with the options of enjoying a beach day, should you chose.

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You can get a glass of wine anywhere from 3-10 euro a glass, depending on the vintage. But the local or house wines are perfectly lovely and you can get them between 2,50 to 4,50 euro per glass throughout Italy.

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