Skip to search
List
7 nights

Your guide to the Italian lakes: where to go and what to do

Holidays to the Italian lakes are all about soaking up outstanding scenery, treating your taste buds to flavour-filled local food and exploring the colourful towns scattered around the lakeshores.

The north of the country’s peppered with lakes of all shapes and sizes, and each one’s special in its own way. So if you fancy a slice of lake life this summer, find out where to go, when to visit, and what to do when you’re there.

Where are the northern Italian lakes?

The area stretching eastwards from just north of Milan across to Verona is home to Italy’s largest and most famous lakes, Garda, Como and Maggiore, with Maggiore’s northern shore nudging into Switzerland too.

Head a little further north-east, and you’ll find yourself in Trentino – home to many more smaller lakes, nestled between some of the most dramatic peaks you’ll find anywhere.

When’s best to visit the Italian lakes region?

Weather-wise, the best months to visit are between May and September. You’ll get the warmest temps in July and August – perfect if you’re after lake dips, boat trips and balmy evenings spent sipping sunset cocktails on a waterfront terrace. May and September are usually milder and quieter, so they’re ideal if you like to get out and about on your holiday.

Don’t have much time for your Italian getaway? No problem – check out these short break deals and find out how much you can pack into just 3 or 4 days on Lake Garda.

The largest Italian lakes


Each of Italy’s most well-known lakes has its own highlights, and no matter which you choose you’ll be met with pretty towns, delicious food and the sort of show-stopping scenery that’ll have you whipping out your camera every five minutes.

Lake Garda

Best for:

  • Striking mountain views
  • Wine-tasting
  • Watersports and activities

Lake Como

Best for:

  • Catching a boat to colourful villages
  • Lavish villas and gardens
  • Postcard-worthy scenery

Lake Maggiore

Best for:

  • Boat-hopping between islands
  • Italian café culture
  • Quiet, authentic corners

Can't decide which lake to pick?

Lesser-known Italian lakes


For a more under-the-radar pick, head to one of the smaller Italian lakes to explore authentic villages, discover dramatic views and enjoy laid-back days on the lake front.

Lake Orta

Best for:

  • Peaceful lake beaches
  • Long lunches in cobbled squares
  • Learning about local legends

Lake Levico

Best for:

  • Lake dips
  • Seeking out ancient forts and castles
  • A blend of Italian and Austrian flavours

Lake Molveno

Best for:

  • Cable cars up to mountain walks
  • Lunching with a view
  • Browsing local crafts

What's there to do in Italy's lakes and mountains?

 

Tuck into some tasty food


Food’s a pretty big deal in Italy and it’s definitely worth trying as many of the local dishes as you can. Sink your teeth into some proper Italian pizza, taste the freshest of fish while looking out over the lake and don’t miss local faves like paniscia – a hearty rice and salami-based classic from Piedmont that you’ll find around Lake Maggiore.

Get out on the water

One of the best ways to see the lakes to is to hop on a ferry and take to the water. You’ll get a whole new sense of the scenery, plus it’s a great way to get around and explore lots of the different towns and villages that are dotted around the larger lakes like Como and Garda.

Take in the scenery on a walk

Whether it’s a gentle stroll along a promenade on Lake Maggiore, roaming the forested hills that flank Lakes Como and Orta or catching a cable car to walk among the summits above Lake Molveno, the Italian lakes are well worth exploring on foot.

Taste the region's best wines

Italy and wine go hand-and-hand so make a beeline for one of the many vineyards around the northern Italian lakes to taste some of the local tipples. Each region’s known for different types of wine, from world-famous varieties to regional favourites you might not have heard of.

Explore iconic villas and gardens

Spend your days visiting waterfront villas and wandering through botanic gardens. There’s plenty of history to delve into and nature to discover, with art installations and sculptures to seek out between the flowers, plants and trees in some spots too.
Read more about Italy’s lakes and mountains or, if you’re ready to plan your trip, check out our latest deals.

Author: Polly Bryan

Last updated: 09.04.2024

Holiday Type

Destination

Show more