The most convenient airport for visiting Lake Maggiore is Milan Malpensa (MXP). Located in the northern part of Italy, Malpensa is just a 30 to 50-minute drive from the southern shores of the lake, such as the town of Arona or the popular resort of Stresa. There are also direct bus services (like the "Alibus") and train connections that can get you to the lake in under an hour. Alternatively, travelers coming from within Europe might consider Milan Linate (LIN) or Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY); however, these involve a significantly longer commute—typically 1.5 to 2 hours—across the city of Milan. For those visiting the northern, Swiss end of the lake (near Locarno), flying into Zurich (ZRH) is an option, followed by a scenic 3-hour train ride through the Alps. In 2026, Milan Malpensa remains the primary gateway for international travelers, offering the widest range of car rentals and easy access to the scenic lakeside roads that lead toward the Borromean Islands.