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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Which Italian Lake is Best to Visit? Let's be honest, the Italian Lakes are as scenic as they are idyllic. Crystal clear water flanked by mountains and vineyards, mild climates, pretty towns, great food and fantastic shopping… these lakes have got a lot to showcase.
Both are wonderful places to stop and spend time and are beautiful. The hiking in Cinque Terre is amazing but it will likely have larger crowds. Lake Como will be probably be more peaceful and relaxing.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lake Como is a little more elegant and expensiveWhile accommodation and meals at either lake is pricey, particularly in the high season, Lake Como also tends to be a little bit more expensive, too.
It will be difficult to see everything: the Italian lakes region is rich and full of surprises! However, if you want to discover the must-see places of the 3 main lakes, we recommend you to leave for a minimum of 7 days, ideally 15 days.
Getting around the Great Lakes without a carWith the train, you can easily reach Stresa, Como, Lecco or Peschiera del Garda. If you want to explore the lakes for a longer period of time without a car, a boat is the best way to get around, as there are no winding roads and no parking problems.
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.
Perhaps the most famous of all the lakes in Italy is Lake Como, put on the international radar thanks to its A-list guest list and opulent features. Travel just one hour from Milan Airport to reach the Lombardy region, twisting through forested roads that lead through stunning villages on the way to Como's shore.
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.
It really depends on your interests. Lake Como area is beautiful but it does not have as many sights/attractions as Florence. If you want natural scenery with a smaller city scene than Como. If you want museums, art, city and Tuscany than Florence is your choice.