Stresa holidays

Popular holidays

Holidays to Stresa line up classic villas and elegant palm tree-lined promenades, all sitting on the western shore of Lake Maggiore.

Extravagant history

While the history of the town dates back to Roman times, Stresa became especially popular as a hotspot for European elites and aristocrats in the 19^th century. Take a look around and you’ll get a strong sense of this grand legacy, from the elegant piazzas, churches and cobbled streets in the old town to the lush setting of Villa Pallavicino Park – a must-visit while you’re here. And you can’t visit Stresa without a trip over to the stunning Borromean Islands – whether it’s the Baroque palace on Isola Bella or the exotic botanical gardens of Isola Madre, your camera is sure to be busy.

Beauty from above

If you’re after some top-notch views, lace up your boots and hit one of the scenic trails up to Mottarone, with the summit at 1,491m. From Stresa, trails L1 or L5 take about three to four hours and wind through shady woods and open meadows. You can also jump on the bus up to Mottarone. At the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over both Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta – and on a clear day, even Monte Rosa in the distance. Want to end on a high? Head to Alpyland and ride the twisting and curving 1.2km bobsled track – you won't forget the 360-degree spectacle in a hurry.

Discover more

Stresa has a train station, giving you easy access to cosmopolitan Milan and other towns on the western side of the lake, including neighbouring Baveno and sleepy Meina. There's also a regular ferry service that runs from Stresa across to pretty Pallanza, on the other side of the bay - a large town full of lush gardens and parks. You can catch another ferry from here to the northern and eastern shores of the lake in high season.

Out and about

Here are some ideas of things to do when staying in Stresa:

• Boat trips
• Botanical gardens
• Rooftop bars

Popular hotels in Stresa

Top things to see and do in Stresa

Beaches

The beach bar

On the edge of Stresa you'll find the LOV beach bar. There's a stony beach area, a nine-hole minigolf course and bar, and sunbeds and umbrellas to rent. It's one of the quieter beaches in the area, with relaxing views of the lake.

A central beach

In the centre of Stresa, opposite the Hotel Astoria and Hotel Regina Palace, there's a small beach that's free to the public. There are sun loungers and parasols to rent, and roped-off swimming areas too.

Shopping

Bargain buys

Every week, the stalls of Stresa market line Piazza Capucci in the centre of town. You'll find clothing and souvenirs, as well as leather goods and local art and crafts.

Mid-range buys

Stresa has lots of boutiques and chain shops, offering clothing, jewellery, books and more.

Designer buys

If you're looking to spend a little more on a souvenir or holiday gift, Stresa has a few upmarket shops selling designer brands.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

For a relaxed evening with a view, make your way to the rooftop Sky Bar in Hotel La Palma. Or treat yourself to an ice-cream in the main piazza and take a stroll along the promenade.

Lively evenings

Stresa really comes alive in the summer evenings, with concerts and events taking place around the town. You might even catch a firework display out on the lake too.

Food & drink

Dine lakeside

Stresa's lakeside promenade is lined with bars and cafés, which serve up front-row views of the Borromean Islands.

Seek out traditional fare

You'll find cheaper and more traditional restaurants by heading into the backstreets and piazzas of Stresa. Find your perfect al fresco spot and dine looking out on the lake.

Pizza is never far away

There are lots of local specialities on Stresa's menus, including lake fish which is often served with pasta. But if in doubt, why not go for the pizza?

Getting about

Buses

The main bus stop is opposite the ferry port in Stresa. Buses run through each town, heading south to Arona and north to Verbania. Services are limited on Sundays and bank holidays.

Passenger ferries

You can take ferries from Stresa to the neighbouring towns or the Borromean Islands in the bay. Tickets are available at the Stresa travel office.

Trains

Like most of the towns on the west shore of Lake Maggiore, Stresa has a railway station and a regular local train service. It's a delightful way to sit and watch the views glide past.

On foot

Fancy wandering down cobbled streets or strolling along a lakeside path, gazing out at a secluded bay? Stresa has plenty of easy walks with a rewarding view.

Walking

Island walks

Take the ferry over to the Borromean Islands for gentle walks amongst some unique scenery. Bella and Madre both have historic palaces with gardens where peacocks roam.

The Chestnut Route

Walk up the hillside behind Stresa and you'll be rewarded with some great lake views. The Chestnut Route is a circular walk that's signposted. It's fairly easy walking but there are steeper sections. If you find it easier, you can take a bus back to Stresa.