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8 must-see views in the Italian lakes

If finding glorious views is the highlight of your holiday, the lakes of northern Italy have heaps to offer. Whether you’re climbing to the top of historic spots like Malcesine castle or the Torre Apponale in Riva, taking shots of ornate villas and gardens as you arrive by boat or simply taking it easy by the lakes’ shores, here are eight of our favourite viewpoints around Lake Garda, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore.

Scaliger Castle, Malcesine, Lake Garda

Climb to the highest point of Malcesine's famous castle for a spectacular view of one of Lake Garda's prettiest towns. It's perched on a rock on the shore, so you'll feel above it all as you look down at the maze of narrow cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops and lively harbour with the lake beyond.

The Isola Bella Gardens, near Stresa, Lake Maggiore

The Isola Bella Gardens are nestled on their own Borromean island and really deliver when it comes to photo opps. We’re talking colourful flower beds, palm trees and manicured hedgerows, with crystal-clear waters glistening round every corner. Set right in the heart of the gardens, the impressive Teatro Massimo – a huge stone structure draped with flowers and topped with a unicorn statue – is well worth a pic too. You might catch a glimpse of the iconic white peacocks for the icing on your Instagram cake.

Monte Baldo, Malcesine, Lake Garda

Monte Baldo’s the perfect spot for a bird’s eye view of rocky mountain peaks and inky-blue lake waters. Keep your camera out from the get-go as the cable car ride offers up your first chance to capture the vista. From the top, you’ve a fabulous vantage point, with uninterrupted, jaw-dropping scenery as far as you can see. And if you’re up for stretching your legs, some of the best walks around Lake Garda start from here – snapworthy views included.

Villa Balbianello, near Tremezzo, Lake Como

Once owned by eccentric explorer Guido Monzino, Villa Balbianello is now one of Lake Como's most photographed sites – it's even starred in films like Casino Royale and Star Wars. Take the taxiboat over and you’ll see the villa perched on the cliffside, then when you explore the villa itself, you can frame your lake view with vine-covered pillars and elaborate terraces. Now that’s a shot to add to your Insta feed.

Piani dei Resinielli, near Lecco, Lake Como

The Piani dei Resinielli’s triangular viewing platform juts out from the cliff edge, giving you a picture-perfect panorama of Lake Como and the surrounding mountain peaks. You can keep the views coming with a wander along the track, with the stunning Belvedere Parco Valentino scenery for company.

Grotte di Catullo, Sirmione, Lake Garda

Add Roman ruins to your camera reel with a trip to the Grotte di Catullo. Find yourself a spot amongst the old walls of the villa and look out towards the lake for a pic with historic credentials. Capture the lake peeking through the pillars and you’ll get even more colour from the sun sparkling on the water.

Sabbioni beach, Riva, Lake Garda

For a view that starts right at your feet, flick out your towel on Sabbioni beach – just a short stroll along the promenade from the centre of Riva. Clear blue waters drizzle over pebbles nearby, with the mountains hugging the scenic shoreline. Doze off or watch the sailors and windsurfers out on the lake – the choice is yours.

Torre Apponale, Riva, Lake Garda

Climb the 165 wooden steps to the top of this medieval tower – which was originally built to help defend the port – for the best view over Riva. With the town’s terracotta rooftops and colourful buildings stretching out in all directions and dramatic mountain peaks completing the picture, the 360-degree panorama is truly incredible.
Itching to get your camera out? Take snaps of the stunning sights yourself on a Lakes & Mountains getaway to Lake Garda, Lake Como or Lake Maggiore.

Or head to our Lakes & Mountains homepage for more top spots for a trip full of Insta-worthy views.

Author: Robinia Wareham

Last updated: 02.06.2025

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