ItalyAmong the quietest but most picturesque is Lake Iseo, surrounded by mountains, with the Camonica valley to the north and Franciacorta wine country to the south.
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For a castle and Roman ruins, go to Lake Garda; for opulent villas and gardens, opt for Lake Como. Lake Como's town of Sirmione may be touristy, but it also boasts two popular sights: the imposing Scaligero Castle, which dates back to the 13th century, and the ruins of the Grotte di Catullo, an ancient Roman spa.
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.
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.
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.
The Price of visiting Lake Como and Lake MaggioreThe 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.
Lake Garda is easier to get to from Venice and Verona; Lake Como is closer to Milan. Lake Garda is east of Lake Como, so it's easier to get to from Venice and Verona.
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.
Stay in less-touristy towns and villagesArgegno 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.
One of the most beautiful, most famous, and most visited towns of Lake Garda is certainly Limone del Garda, on the Brescian coast, 35km from the town of Salò and 9.5km from Riva del Garda, built along the 45 bis Western Gardesana Highway.
MalcesineMalcesine, the pearl of Lake Garda, is located in a very picturesque setting. It's definitely one of the most beautiful towns of Lake Garda! It's a charming old town with narrow medieval streets, a beautiful harbor, and lots of small shops, stores and cafes inviting visitors to stroll around and explore.
Lake Garda is also very touristy. Maybe not as popular as Lake Como with Americans (maybe thanks to Rick Steves and George Clooney), but Lake Garda is the most visited lake in Italy, particularly by Germans and Austrians. Lake Maggiore is also nice, and very close to the Milan Malpensa airport.
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.
Lake Maggiore is one of the better lake districts in northern Italy. There are three lovely islands to visit such as, Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Pescatore or sometimes called Superiore. You can take the ferryboats to see them or hire a private motoscaffo, either way, these are islands not to miss.