Italian Lakes holidays

Good to know before your Italian Lakes holiday

Planning a holiday to the Italian Lakes? Lucky you! With spectacular mountain scenery, colourful lakeside towns and plenty of opportunities to embrace la dolce vita, this beautiful corner of northern Italy has a lot going for it. But with several lakes to choose from and so many tempting places to explore, a little local knowledge comes in handy. From picking the perfect time to visit to discovering how to get around, here's what you need to know before setting off.

When is the best time to visit the Italian Lakes?

May to September is a wonderful time to visit the Italian Lakes, with generally warm weather, beautiful green landscapes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. July and August bring the highest temperatures and the liveliest atmosphere, particularly around popular resorts on Lake Garda and Lake Como. Prefer a little more breathing room? May, June and September are lovely alternatives, with pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and lakeside walks. Spring is particularly pretty, when gardens burst into bloom, while autumn brings golden colours to the surrounding hills. Just remember that the weather can change quickly near the mountains, so packing a light jacket is always a good idea.

Getting to the Italian Lakes from the UK

Good news! Reaching the Italian Lakes from the UK is fairly straightforward, with several airports serving the region. Milan Malpensa is a convenient choice for Lake Maggiore, Lake Como and Lake Orta, while Milan Bergamo and Verona airports are particularly useful for holidays around Lake Garda. Flight availability depends on your departure airport and the season, so it's worth comparing a few options. Once you've landed, trains, buses, private transfers and hire cars can take you towards your chosen destination. And here's a handy tip: check which side of the lake your accommodation is on before booking your transfer. Those beautiful stretches of water can make a journey longer than it first appears on the map!

Which Italian lake should you choose?

Four beautiful lakes, four very different personalities. Lake Como is the place for elegant villas, charming waterfront towns and spectacular mountain scenery, while Lake Garda offers a livelier mix of beaches, watersports and family-friendly resorts such as Sirmione and Peschiera del Garda. Looking for beautiful gardens and a slightly gentler pace? Lake Maggiore, particularly around Stresa, is a lovely choice. And if you're hoping to escape the busier tourist spots, Lake Orta is a little gem, with romantic Orta San Giulio and peaceful surroundings. Whichever you choose, gorgeous views are pretty much guaranteed. The tricky part is deciding where to go first!

Getting around the lakes

One of the loveliest ways to explore the region is by boat. Ferries connect many of the towns around Lake Como, Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, making it easy to enjoy the scenery without spending hours behind the wheel. Lake Orta also has boat services connecting its picturesque lakeside villages. Trains are useful for reaching places such as Como, Stresa, Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda, while local buses serve other towns. Hiring a car gives you more freedom to explore smaller villages and scenic mountain roads, although parking can be tricky during summer. Ferry schedules vary throughout the year, so check departure times before planning a day trip. Nobody wants to watch the last boat sail away without them!

Swimming, sunshine and what to pack

Yes, you can absolutely enjoy a beach day at the Italian Lakes! Many resorts have designated swimming areas, with a mixture of grassy shores, pebbly beaches and lakeside bathing spots. Lake Garda is particularly popular for swimming and watersports, while Lake Como and Lake Maggiore also have lovely places to take a dip. Water temperatures can be cooler than you might expect, especially early in the season, and conditions vary between locations. Pack comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun cream and perhaps some beach shoes for pebbly shores. And don't forget a warmer layer for evenings in the mountains. Italian summer days might be sunny, but the weather doesn't always get the memo!

Money, language and a few Italian essentials

The currency in the Italian Lakes is the euro (€), and Italian is the official language. English is commonly spoken in popular tourist destinations, although a cheerful buongiorno (good morning) or grazie (thank you) is always appreciated. Cards are widely accepted, but keeping a little cash handy is useful for smaller cafés and local purchases. You'll need a suitable European plug adaptor for your UK devices, and Italy is one hour ahead of the UK. British passport holders can generally visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, provided they meet the relevant Schengen entry requirements. One final tip: don't try to squeeze every lake into a short holiday. Pick your favourites, take your time and leave plenty of room for spontaneous stops. That lakeside aperitivo isn't going to drink itself!

Things to do in the Italian Lakes beyond the beautiful views

There's something rather magical about a place where you can explore grand Italian villas, wander through medieval castles and hop between colourful lakeside villages, all with the Alps as your backdrop. Things to do in the Italian Lakes range from leisurely boat trips and spectacular gardens to scenic cycling routes and fascinating historic towns. Whether you're staying on Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore or Lake Orta, you'll find plenty of reasons to put down your gelato and go exploring. Although, come to think of it, why not bring the gelato along?

Explore the beautiful Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore

Fancy spending a day hopping between tiny islands filled with palaces, gardens and a little Italian glamour? The Borromean Islands, just off the coast of Stresa, are among Lake Maggiore's most beautiful attractions. Start with Isola Bella, home to a magnificent Baroque palace and spectacular terraced gardens, before discovering the peaceful botanical surroundings of Isola Madre. Then head to Isola dei Pescatori, a charming fishing village with narrow streets and colourful houses. Regular boat services make exploring the islands easy during the tourist season. And with lake views around every corner, you'll probably spend as much time taking photos as sightseeing!

Discover the romantic charm of Orta San Giulio

Some places seem almost too pretty to be real, and Orta San Giulio is definitely one of them. Tucked away on the shores of Lake Orta, this beautiful medieval village is a maze of cobbled streets, pastel-coloured buildings and peaceful little squares. Wander down to Piazza Motta, where waterfront cafés overlook the lake, then catch a boat to the tiny island of San Giulio. Here, you can visit the historic basilica and follow the wonderfully named Walk of Silence around the island. Fancy stretching your legs? The nearby Sacro Monte di Orta offers scenic woodland paths and historic chapels. It's the perfect place to escape the crowds and discover a quieter side of northern Italy.

Take the funicular above Lake Como

Want to see Lake Como from a completely different perspective? Hop aboard the historic funicular railway connecting Como with the hilltop village of Brunate. In just seven minutes, you'll climb high above the waterfront, with spectacular views opening up as you go. Once at the top, explore the village's charming streets or follow the walking paths towards the Volta Lighthouse for an even more impressive panorama. Back in Como, take some time to discover the beautiful cathedral, elegant squares and lively lakeside promenade. And after all that exploring? Find yourself a terrace overlooking the water and enjoy a well-earned Italian coffee. You've earned it!

Step inside Lake Como's magnificent villas

If you've ever wondered how the other half spent their summers, Lake Como's historic villas offer a fascinating glimpse into a rather glamorous past. One of the loveliest is Villa Carlotta, in Tremezzina, where elegant rooms filled with art are surrounded by beautiful botanical gardens. Expect colourful flowers, sweeping staircases and gorgeous views across the lake. Another highlight is Villa del Balbianello, perched on a wooded peninsula near Lenno and famous for its spectacular setting and appearances in films. You don't need to be a millionaire to enjoy a little lakeside luxury, although you might leave with some rather ambitious ideas for your own garden.

Travel back in time in Sirmione

Sitting on a narrow peninsula stretching into southern Lake Garda, Sirmione looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Enter the historic centre through the impressive Scaligero Castle, a medieval fortress surrounded by water, then wander through narrow streets filled with colourful buildings and little boutiques. At the northern tip of the peninsula, you'll find the Grotte di Catullo, the remarkable remains of an ancient Roman villa overlooking the lake. And if you fancy something a little more relaxing after all that history, Sirmione is also famous for its thermal waters. Ancient ruins followed by a spa afternoon? Now that's a sightseeing itinerary we can get behind!

Explore Peschiera del Garda's historic canals

There's more to Peschiera del Garda than its beautiful waterfront. This charming town at the southern end of Lake Garda is surrounded by impressive Venetian fortifications, recognised as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its historic streets, cross picturesque bridges and admire the canals that wind between the old defensive walls. Feeling energetic? Hire a bicycle and follow the scenic Mincio cycle route, which leads through the countryside towards the beautiful village of Borghetto sul Mincio. With old watermills, riverside views and plenty of places to stop along the way, it's a lovely adventure that combines a little exercise with some seriously pretty scenery.

Enjoy a little adventure around Riva and Limone sul Garda

If you're happiest outdoors, the northern shores of Lake Garda are calling your name. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, Riva del Garda is a fantastic base for hiking, cycling and watersports. Try windsurfing or sailing on the lake, or follow the spectacular Ponale trail for views that make every uphill step worthwhile. Across the water, the colourful village of Limone sul Garda is famous for its historic lemon groves and beautiful waterfront. Don't miss the panoramic lakeside cycling and walking path, where sections cling dramatically to the cliffs above the water. Whether you're exploring on two wheels or simply enjoying the scenery on foot, this is one corner of Italy that certainly knows how to impress.

Best beaches in the Italian Lakes for a refreshing escape

Who says you need the seaside for a brilliant beach holiday? The Italian Lakes have some gorgeous spots for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the great outdoors, all with spectacular mountains as your backdrop. Forget endless stretches of golden sand, though. Here, it's all about pretty pebbly shores, grassy sunbathing areas and crystal-clear freshwater. From the lively beaches of Lake Garda to peaceful little hideaways around Lake Orta, there's plenty to discover. Grab your swimming costume, pack a picnic and get ready to find your favourite lakeside spot.

Jamaica Beach on Lake Garda is a little slice of paradise

With a name like Jamaica Beach, you'd expect something rather special. And this beautiful spot at the tip of Sirmione on Lake Garda certainly delivers! Instead of traditional sand, you'll find smooth white limestone slabs stretching into wonderfully clear, turquoise water. It's a stunning setting for a swim, with beautiful views across the lake and the surrounding mountains. Getting here involves a walk through Sirmione's historic centre and a steep path down towards the shore, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. Bring some water shoes, as the rocks can be slippery, and enjoy a beach day with a distinctly Italian twist.

Miami Beach brings a little sunshine to Lake Orta

No, you haven't accidentally ended up in Florida! Miami Beach on Lake Orta, just outside Orta San Giulio, offers a lovely setting for a relaxed day by the water. This popular lakeside spot has shallow bathing areas, beautiful views towards San Giulio Island and facilities including sunloungers, parasols and pedalos. It's particularly appealing for families who fancy a little swimming without venturing too far from the charming villages nearby. When you've had enough sunshine, find a shady spot or grab something refreshing from the beach bar. Miami might be thousands of miles away, but this Italian version has plenty going for it.

Lido di Faggeto for a beautiful day on Lake Como

Fancy a refreshing dip with mountains rising dramatically around you? Lido di Faggeto, on the eastern shore of Lake Como, is a lovely place to escape the summer heat. Set in the village of Faggeto Lario, this lakeside bathing spot offers access to the water, sunloungers and beautiful views across the lake. It's ideal for spending a few peaceful hours swimming, relaxing or simply admiring the scenery. The surrounding hills make the setting particularly picturesque, while the nearby villages offer plenty of opportunities for a leisurely wander afterwards. Just remember that Lake Como can get deep quite quickly, so stick to designated swimming areas.

Sabbioni Beach for family fun in Riva del Garda

If you're after a beach with plenty going on, Sabbioni Beach in Riva del Garda deserves a place on your list. Situated at the northern end of Lake Garda, this spacious pebble beach has grassy areas for sunbathing, shady trees and spectacular mountain views. Families will appreciate the playground and nearby facilities, while more energetic visitors can hire a canoe or enjoy a swim in the lake. And when you've worked up an appetite? The charming streets and waterfront cafés of Riva del Garda are within easy reach. It's a lovely combination of beach relaxation and a little Italian town life.

Discover the charm of Lake Maggiore's shores in Stresa

Elegant villas, beautiful gardens and mountains reflected in the water make Lake Maggiore a rather special place for a summer swim. Around Stresa, you'll find lakeside bathing spots, including the Carciano area, where visitors can enjoy views towards the famous Borromean Islands. The atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed, particularly when the afternoon sunshine lights up the surrounding hills. Check local bathing signs and water conditions before swimming, then spend a little time exploring Stresa's picturesque waterfront. A refreshing dip followed by an Italian gelato? Sounds like a perfectly sensible holiday plan.

Spiaggia Cola for a peaceful afternoon in Limone sul Garda

Tucked along the western shore of Lake Garda, Spiaggia Cola offers a beautiful setting for a laid-back afternoon. This pebbly beach sits close to the centre of Limone sul Garda, with clear waters, dramatic mountain scenery and a lovely lakeside atmosphere. You can hire sunloungers and parasols during the season or simply find a comfortable spot to relax. Fancy doing something more adventurous? Pedalos offer a fun way to explore the water. Afterwards, wander through Limone's colourful streets and discover its famous lemon-growing heritage. It's a wonderful little corner of Italy where even an ordinary beach day feels rather special.

Lido Cappuccini makes beach days easy in Peschiera del Garda

Sometimes you want a beach with everything close at hand, and Lido Cappuccini in Peschiera del Garda is just the place. This popular pebble beach on Lake Garda's southern shore has sunloungers, parasols and facilities that make it particularly convenient for families. There's also a children's play area and opportunities to hire pedalos, so you can enjoy the lake from a different perspective. When hunger strikes, refreshments are available nearby, and the historic centre of Peschiera is within easy reach. Spend the morning swimming, enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the water and finish the day exploring the town's beautiful canals. Not a bad way to spend a holiday, is it?

Food and drink in the Italian Lakes

Beautiful scenery is one thing, but wait until you discover what's on the menu! Food and drink in the Italian Lakes brings together the best of northern Italian cooking, from freshly caught lake fish and creamy risottos to mountain cheeses, homemade pasta and delicious local wines. Each lake has its own culinary traditions, so there's always something new to try. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch overlooking Lake Como or sipping a glass of wine beside Lake Garda, one thing's certain: the Italians know how to make a meal feel like an occasion. And who are we to argue?

Risotto and freshwater fish on Lake Como

Forget seafood for a moment. Around Lake Como, freshwater fish is the real star of the show. One of the region's most beloved dishes is risotto con pesce persico, a wonderfully creamy risotto topped with delicate perch fillets, often cooked in butter and sage. Another local speciality is missoltini, small lake fish traditionally salted, dried and served grilled with polenta. The flavour is quite intense, but that's all part of the adventure! You'll find these traditional dishes in restaurants around Como and the surrounding lakeside villages. Add a beautiful waterfront view, and suddenly a simple lunch becomes rather special.

Discover the flavours of Lake Garda

Lake Garda's traditional cuisine has a few delicious surprises up its sleeve. Try bigoli con le sarde, thick strands of pasta tossed with lake sardines, garlic and olive oil, or luccio in salsa, tender pike served with a flavourful sauce and a generous helping of polenta. The region is also famous for its delicate extra virgin olive oil, produced from olive groves that thrive in the lake's mild climate. Around Limone sul Garda, historic lemon groves add a wonderfully Mediterranean touch to the local food scene. Who would have thought you could find so many sunny flavours this close to the Alps?

Comfort food from the mountains

When you venture into the hills surrounding the Italian Lakes, the food gets a little heartier. Traditional mountain cooking is all about simple ingredients and generous portions, perfect after a day exploring the countryside. Look out for polenta taragna, a rich mixture of maize and buckwheat flour combined with butter and melted cheese. It's wonderfully comforting, especially alongside slow-cooked meat or wild mushrooms. You'll also find delicious local cheeses, including mountain varieties from the valleys around Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Add a glass of red wine, find a cosy table and enjoy. Nobody's counting calories on holiday!

Sweet treats from Lake Maggiore

Got a sweet tooth? Lake Maggiore has a particularly delicious tradition waiting for you. The elegant town of Stresa is famous for its Margheritine di Stresa, delicate, buttery biscuits originally created in honour of Princess Margherita, who later became Queen of Italy. They're wonderfully crumbly and practically made for an afternoon coffee. Around Pallanza, you'll also find traditional amaretti, delicious almond biscuits that make a lovely little treat. And if you're exploring the lakeside villages, don't overlook the local bakeries. The smell of freshly baked pastries is often far too tempting to ignore. Go on, you're in Italy!

A taste of tradition around Lake Orta

The peaceful shores of Lake Orta offer a lovely opportunity to discover the flavours of Piedmont. Traditional cooking here makes good use of rice, seasonal vegetables, mushrooms and locally produced cheeses, with hearty risottos appearing on menus throughout the area. For something a little different, look out for Pane di San Giulio, a traditional bread made with rye flour, raisins and nuts, associated with the feast of Saint Julius in January. And if you're wandering through Orta San Giulio, make time for a stop at a local café. A proper Italian espresso overlooking the lake is one of life's simpler pleasures.

Raise a glass to the Italian Lakes

A beautiful lakeside setting deserves a good drink, and this region certainly delivers. Lake Garda is surrounded by excellent wine-producing areas, including those famous for Bardolino reds and rosés and the crisp, refreshing white wines of Lugana. Around Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, you'll also discover wines from Piedmont, a region celebrated for its rich winemaking traditions. Prefer something without alcohol? Try a refreshing limonata, particularly around Lake Garda's historic lemon-growing areas, or embrace the Italian love of coffee with a proper cappuccino. And when the evening arrives, find yourself a terrace, order an aperitivo and enjoy the view. Sometimes the best holiday moments are the ones you spend doing very little at all.