Would you like to try something different than the usual holiday by the sea or in the mountains? Why not go to a lake! Try a different kind of holiday far from the crowded beaches or queues for the ski lifts, taking in the gorgeous natural landscape and enjoying some well-earned relaxation. There are so many idyllic lakes in Italy, and some of them have even been used as the setting for famous works of literature.

From Lake Maggiore to Lake Garda via Lake Como, here are the stops that you cannot miss in northern Italy.

Think hard about it... Why do you have to stay in one place? Wouldn’t it be much more exciting to plan a trip to visit different lakes? We begin our route at Lake Maggiore, moving on to Lake Como and then finishing at Lake Garda. To make sure you enjoy an unforgettable holiday, we have listed 15 places that you simply must visit along the way.

1. Santa Caterina del Sasso

Starting off at Lake Maggiore, pay a visit to the 14th-century hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso near Varese. This sanctuary is high up, overlooking the lake. To get there and admire it in all its beauty, there is a long 268-step staircase with panoramic views, a shorter staircase from the lake and even a lift set into the rock. From the hermitage’s stunning arches overlooking the lake, you’ll be in the perfect place to enjoy views of the wonderful landscape.

 

 

 

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2. Arona

Arona is a town on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the province of Novara. This lovely tourist destination is surrounded by beautiful hills and is rich in local history and culture. Stroll along the streets and discover the historic town centre, and you can’t miss a visit to the famous Rocca Borromea castle and its surrounding park. This fortification was at its maximum splendour in the 15th century and belonged to the Borromeo family.

 

 

 

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3. Isole Borromee (Isola Bella – Isola Madre)

An archipelago on a lake? Of course! On Lake Maggiore, there are the Borromean islands, two of which are particularly worth exploring. First is the Isola Bella, which is home to the famous Borromeo Palace with its splendid garden, and the other is the Isola Madre, with its wonderful botanical garden containing many rare plants.

 

 

 

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4. Stresa

Stresa is also situated on Lake Maggiore and boasts an inspiring blend of nature and architecture. It’s always popular with tourists, who come for the romantic lakefront, the luxury hotels, prestigious villas, historic houses and well-kept gardens. Don’t miss the famous Villa Pallavicino, with its vast park which contains a zoo and a botanical garden of about 20 hectares. 

 

 

 

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5. Verbania

Known as the "Garden of Lake Maggiore", Verbania was born from the union of four ancient settlements on both sides of the Toce river. From Verbania, you can take many excursions on the lake, but there are also many routes further inland to explore the surrounding hills. The area is dotted with prestigious villas and palaces, and the municipality is famous for its botanical gardens and the Fondotoce Nature Reserve.

 

 

 

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6. Riva del Garda

Considered the "Pearl of Lake Garda", the town of Riva del Garda stretches from the lake towards the Dolomites, almost reaching ‘The Bastion’, a fortification that silently overlooks the town. With olive, lemon and palm trees on one side and mountains on the other, Riva del Garda boasts a landscape like something from a postcard.

The atmosphere in the town is highly varied and there are many different activities to choose from, such as windsurfing or sailing, artistic events, tasting local delicacies or just a quiet evening on the beach.

 

 

 

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7. Peschiera del Garda

Also on Lake Garda is Peschiera del Garda, nicknamed the "Fortified Pentagon" because it is protected by a pentagonal fortress which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, there are many fantastic sights, including ancient palaces, churches, bridges and fortifications, but there are also plenty of beaches and amusement parks, such as Gardaland. This makes the town the perfect destination if you’re looking for a combination of fun, relaxation, nature excursions, and good food and wine.

 

 

 

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8. Garda

The history of the town of Garda goes back to the Middle Ages, and this can be seen in the town centre, which is dominated by the Rocca di Garda mountain and is rich in religious architecture, such as the church of the Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta, with its ancient cloister and loggia. Garda also boasts a number of buildings and villas from the 14th and 15th centuries, built in the Venetian Gothic style. But besides all the history, Garda also has plenty of opportunities for exploring the surrounding nature or relaxing on the beach.

 

 

 

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9. Sirmione

Another unique place on Lake Garda is Sirmione, which is situated on a peninsula that extends into the lake. Its beach has an unusual, exotic feel, to the extent that it is called Jamaica Beach. There are a number of fascinating sights here, such as the Walk of the Muses, the Scaliger Castle, the caves of Catullus and even the thermal baths, which are a great way to enjoy a wellness holiday.

 

 

 

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10. Malcesine

On the Veronese side of Lake Garda is the tourist resort of Malcesine. This is another place where history and nature meet. If you’re after history, there is the famous Scaliger Castle, with its fantastic panoramic views, and the Palazzo dei Capitani del Lago. If you’re looking for nature, there are plenty of walks around the surrounding area. And when you’re done with that, why not relax in the small square by the marina, sipping a drink and watching the boats sail in and out.

 

 

 

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11. Desenzano

Desenzano del Garda is ideal for a romantic walk, particularly with its colourful buildings and tree-lined avenues in the Porto Vecchio area. The Piazza Malvezzi is also particularly special, and an interesting antiques market is held here. Also, don’t miss a visit to the Roman Villa or the Archaeological Museum.

 

 

 

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12. Como

Continuing our trip, we reach the city of Como, which gives its name to the lake. This city is known for being the setting of the novel “The Betrothed” by Alessandro Manzoni, a true masterpiece of Italian literature. This city is full of history, culture and places to relax. Don’t miss the Gothic cathedral, the Volta Temple or the Silk Museum.

 

 

 

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13. Lecco

Another spectacular visit on our route is Lecco. Tucked away between Lake Como and the mountains, this also features in the works of Manzoni and boasts unique natural beauty and 19th-century architecture. Take a relaxing, carefree stroll around the alleyways and squares, and pay a visit to the Viscontea Tower, the Manzoni Museum or the Basilica of San Nicolò.

 

 

 

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14. Bellagio

Bellagio is a traditional village situated on a promontory between Lake Como’s two famous branches. It’s a popular tourist destination because of its landscape and the gardens of its enchanting villas, such as Villa Melzi, which also boasts archaeological finds. You could also visit the Basilica of San Giacomo or the Church of San Giorgio. There is also the option of sightseeing by boat!

 

 

 

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15. Isola Comacina

The final stop on our trip is the Isola Comacina on Lake Como. The island can only be reached via ferry and is a large archaeological site, with many finds preserved in the Antiquarium. Here, you can also truly admire some lush Mediterranean vegetation.

 

 

 

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At the end of a trip like this, with so much wonderful nature and so many historic and culture sights, we’re sure that your holiday will remain etched in your memory for many years to come.