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Set amongst palm trees, small harbours and mountains, Lake Maggiore exudes a tranquil, almost elegant atmosphere. All around the lake, lively promenades, historic towns, subtropical gardens and quiet lakeside paths alternate in a delightful way. At times the lake has a light, Mediterranean feel; at others, it seems almost alpine – and it is precisely this blend that makes it so special.
28.05.2026
Eliza
Contents:
Photo: Cannobio is one of the most beautiful places on Lake Maggiore, near the Swiss border, and has retained a delightfully unspoilt atmosphere.
The towns on Lake Maggiore are as varied as the landscape itself. Promenades, elegant old towns, small harbours and green mountain slopes alternate in a delightful way, giving the lake its very own rhythm. If you take your time, you’ll discover not only well-known names but also many subtle nuances.
Stresa is one of the classic towns on Lake Maggiore – yet it feels not only sophisticated but also pleasantly laid-back. Along the lakeside promenade, views of the Borromean Islands open up time and again, whilst the mountains rise up behind the historic hotels and villas. Stresa is particularly beautiful in the early evening, when the light softens and the islands lie in the water almost like backdrops.
Verbania reveals a somewhat livelier, more varied side of the lake. The town comprises several districts, including Pallanza and Intra, and combines elegant lakeshores, small squares and everyday life in an unpretentious way. Pallanza, in particular, with its promenade, cafés and view across the lake, has an almost southern feel to it, without ever seeming contrived.
Cannobio lies close to the Swiss border and has retained a pleasantly unspoilt atmosphere. The old town winds its way gently uphill from the lakeshore, with narrow alleyways, balconies and old façades. Down by the water, things are livelier, particularly around the promenade and the market, but just a few steps further on it becomes quieter.
Cannero Riviera is one of those places that is easy to underestimate. The lakeshore is compact, the atmosphere relaxed and almost secluded, with palm trees, small bathing spots and views of the Castelli di Cannero. The town is particularly suited to anyone who wants to experience Lake Maggiore in a less grand and somewhat more intimate way.
On the Swiss side, Ascona brings a different flavour to the mix. The pastel-coloured houses along the lakeside promenade, the narrow alleyways and the proximity to the Ticino way of life give the town a light and cultured feel. Despite its fame, Ascona has moments when you can simply sit by the water and feel as though time is stretching out a little.
Locarno feels more open and urban than many other towns on the lake. The Piazza Grande, the palm trees and the surrounding mountains create a special blend of city, lake and alpine scenery. For those who enjoy a bit more activity, culture and opportunities for day trips, this is a good base for exploring the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore.
On Lake Maggiore, it’s often not just the towns themselves that linger in the memory, but also the moments in between: an evening stroll along the lakeshore, a small harbour, a jetty or the view from a boat of the houses clinging to the hillside.
Photo: The Borromean Islands are among the most famous sights on Lake Maggiore.
The sights on Lake Maggiore often reveal their full charm in harmony with their surroundings. Set against a backdrop of water, historic villas and subtropical gardens, scenes emerge that linger in the memory above all for their atmosphere. Not everything needs to be grand – some sights make their impact simply through their location, the light and the tranquillity all around.
The Borromean Islands are among the best-known sights on Lake Maggiore. Situated between Stresa and Verbania, Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori lie in the water; the archipelago is officially regarded as one of the lake’s main attractions. The boat journey there is particularly enchanting, as the islands gradually emerge from the blue and the lake reveals its almost theatrical side.
Isola Bella is the most impressive of the Borromean Islands. The palazzo, the terraced gardens and the proximity to the water create an opulent yet almost surreal atmosphere – like a little world created entirely for the lake. Those who arrive early will find the island quieter and can take in the details of the gardens more fully.
Isola Madre has a softer, greener feel. It is the largest of the Borromean Islands and lies a little further out in the gulf off Pallanza. Its gardens have a more tranquil, park-like atmosphere, with exotic plants, old trees and paths that focus less on grand spectacle and more on ambience.
Villa Taranto in Verbania is one of the most beautiful places for anyone who loves gardens. The botanical gardens can easily be combined with a boat trip; there are connections linking Villa Taranto with other places on the lake and the islands. In spring in particular, the place feels like a slow blossoming of colours, water and meticulously tended garden design.
The Sacro Monte della Santissima Trinità di Ghiffa is a quieter, more spiritual spot high above the lake. Amidst chapels, woodland paths and vantage points, the view opens out time and again onto Lake Maggiore. It is not a tourist attraction that draws attention to itself loudly, but rather a place for leisurely walks and brief pauses.
Mottarone brings the mountainous side of Lake Maggiore into play. From the top, the view stretches far across the lake landscape, reaching as far as the Alps on a clear day. The trip is particularly worthwhile if you want to see the lake not just from the shore, but as part of a wider landscape of water, hills and peaks.
The Castelli di Cannero lie in ruins on small rocky islets off Cannero Riviera. From a distance, they appear almost mysterious, especially when the light falls flat across the water. Terre Borromeo lists them as one of the destinations around Lake Maggiore; their special charm is particularly evident when viewed from a boat or from the shore at Cannero.
It is precisely this blend of islands, historic sites, gardens and sweeping views that shapes the character of Lake Maggiore in its own unique way.
Photo: Cannero Riviera on Lake Maggiore may not be an unknown place, but it feels much quieter than Stresa or Locarno.
Away from the well-known spots, there are many quieter corners on Lake Maggiore that are less conspicuous and, for that very reason, have a special charm. Here, you’ll often find a more relaxed, unspoilt way of life: small harbours, narrow paths, old houses, a few boats in the water and the feeling that you don’t really need to plan much at all.
Although Cannero Riviera is by no means an unknown place, it feels considerably quieter than Stresa or Locarno. A stroll along the shore, past small bathing spots and gardens, is particularly lovely. The place has a warm, almost gentle atmosphere – ideal if you want to experience the lake without too much hustle and bustle.
The narrow lanes of Verbania-Pallanza offer a lovely contrast to the promenade. Behind the lakeshore, quieter streets, small squares and old façades open up, appearing almost incidentally as you walk past. It is precisely these unspectacular paths that make Verbania interesting, because the town relies on more than just its scenery.
The lakeside paths between the smaller villages are among the most delightful ways to discover Lake Maggiore. Rather than rushing from one highlight to the next, it’s well worth simply strolling along the water’s edge for a while, stopping at jetties or taking a break at a small bathing spot.
The Brissago Islands on the Swiss side offer a peaceful alternative to the Borromean Islands. They are less opulent, but more botanical and relaxed. For those travelling from Ascona or Locarno, this makes for an excursion that fits in perfectly with the quieter side of Lake Maggiore.
Small villages above the lake offer a different perspective on the region. Even a short detour up the slopes changes the view: below lies the water, whilst above it stretch terraces, woods and old stone houses. It is often in the late afternoon that the most beautiful moments unfold here.
It is often the lesser-known spots on Lake Maggiore that reveal a quieter, more unspoilt side. This is where memories are made that are less easily forgotten. You don’t just follow the well-trodden paths, but discover corners that aren’t heavily featured in any guidebook – and that is often precisely what makes a trip special.
Photo: A boat trip on Lake Maggiore is one of the most enjoyable things to do. A short trip between Stresa, Baveno and the Borromean Islands is particularly atmospheric.
Around Lake Maggiore, water, mountains and short excursions blend together quite naturally. A day might begin with a boat trip, take you through a garden and end with an aperitif by the lake. It’s less about cramming in as much as possible and more about experiencing the lake from a new perspective time and again.
A boat trip on Lake Maggiore is one of the most delightful activities because it connects the different towns without you having to be constantly on the move. Public ferry services operate on routes including Arona–Locarno and to the Borromean Islands.
A short trip between Stresa, Baveno and the Borromean Islands is particularly atmospheric. The water, the villas, the gardens and the mountains are constantly shifting in view. Even the crossing itself feels less like a journey and more like part of the experience.
Those who prefer a more active way of exploring can experience the lake by stand-up paddleboard, kayak or boat. Especially on calm mornings, the water is often glassy in front of the towns, and you can really feel how close the mountains and the shore come together. Short boat trips along the coast are also well worth it, particularly around Cannero Riviera, Stresa or Ascona.
For a change of perspective, there are walks and vantage points above the lake. Even short walks up the slopes are enough to see Lake Maggiore in a different light: less as a holiday backdrop, more as a landscape nestled between the Alps, the water and Mediterranean vegetation.
A particularly lovely excursion is the Lago Maggiore Express, which combines a boat trip with a journey on the panoramic train. The route combines a crossing of the lake with a journey on the Centovalli and Vigezzina railways through valleys, over bridges and across alpine landscapes – ideal if you want to experience the lake and its hinterland in a single day.
This creates a blend of activity and tranquillity around Lake Maggiore, allowing you to experience the lake from ever-changing perspectives.
Photo: In culinary terms, Lake Maggiore offers a delightful variety. The cuisine ranges from traditional Italian lakeside fare and Piedmontese influences to the lightness of Ticino cuisine and modern restaurants that take a more conscious and creative approach to cooking.
Culinary-wise, Lake Maggiore offers a delightful variety. A mix of elegant restaurants, modern lakeside terraces, small cafés and venues close to nature creates an ambience that suits the lake perfectly: not too noisy, not too contrived, but often particularly special when the view, the light and the atmosphere come together.
Lo Stornello, Stresa: In Stresa, Lo Stornello is a stylish choice for anyone looking to dine thoughtfully and with a touch of refinement, without the evening feeling too formal. The cuisine is modern, refined and pleasantly straightforward, whilst the atmosphere is calm and sophisticated. The restaurant is a particularly lovely choice after a stroll along the promenade or a trip to the Borromean Islands.
Grotto Sant’Anna, Cannobio: Grotto Sant’Anna brings a completely different vibe to the culinary scene: less lakeside promenade, more nature, stone, shade and the authentic Ticino or northern Italian grotto atmosphere. Situated near Cannobio, this spot is ideal for a relaxing break away from the immediate lakeshore – especially if you’d like to experience Lake Maggiore not just in an elegant way, but also in a slightly wilder and more natural setting.
Maison Morotti, Sesto Calende / Arona / Angera: Maison Morotti is a lovely addition for a sweet treat on the southern shores of Lake Maggiore. The patisserie, with branches in Sesto Calende, Arona and Angera, combines coffee, fine pastries and a refined café atmosphere. Ideal for a leisurely start to the day, a break between two walks or a little moment of indulgence that doesn’t have to be a full meal.
BLU Restaurant & Lounge, Locarno: In Locarno, the BLU Restaurant & Lounge brings a modern, urban touch to the lakeside. The cuisine has an international flavour, whilst the atmosphere is somewhat more contemporary and open than in many classic lakeside restaurants. This venue is particularly well-suited if you’d like to combine a visit to the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore with a casual dinner, a drink or a more thoughtful dining experience.
Ristorante Lago / Roof Lounge, Minusio near Locarno: Ristorante Lago in Minusio really capitalises on its waterside location. Mediterranean cuisine, lake views and its proximity to Locarno make it a lovely spot for a relaxed evening on Lake Maggiore. The Roof Lounge is particularly atmospheric: a place for an aperitif, to watch the sunset and take in the view over the water, palm trees and the Ticino mountains.
On Lake Maggiore, the cuisine is always part of the atmosphere of the place. Often, it is not so much the individual dishes as the combination of the terrace, the light, the water and those little breaks that make the moment special.
Photo: The Art Hotel Riposo is situated in the picturesque heart of Ascona, just a few steps from the famous square by the lake. It combines artistic details, a romantic atmosphere and a relaxed Ticino flair.
The range of hotels on Lake Maggiore extends from historic buildings right on the waterfront to nature-oriented retreats and small boutique hotels with a distinct character. Particularly lovely are those places that not only make the most of the lake’s views but also embrace its tranquillity: with terraces, gardens, light-filled rooms or a location from which you can easily explore local towns, lakeside paths and day trips at a leisurely pace.
Hotel Cannero, Cannero Riviera: Situated right on the shore at Cannero Riviera, Hotel Cannero combines lake views, historic charm and the quieter side of Lake Maggiore. The view of the Castelli di Cannero, which lie in the water just off the town, is particularly beautiful and lends the stay an almost timeless atmosphere.
Il Borgo delle Arti, Verbania / Feriolo: Il Borgo delle Arti is a good choice if you’d like to experience Lake Maggiore in a more relaxed and nature-oriented way. This glamping resort is set in lush greenery and is well-suited for excursions around Verbania, Baveno and the Borromean Islands. Rather than the classic hotel experience, the focus here is on a relaxed stay amidst the garden, pool and cosy little nooks.
Il Sole di Ranco, Ranco: Il Sole di Ranco is situated on the Lombardy side of Lake Maggiore and feels like a peaceful contrast to the better-known resorts on the western shore. The hotel combines understated elegance, lake views and a somewhat secluded location right by the water’s edge. It is particularly well-suited to anyone wishing to experience Lake Maggiore in a quieter, more elegant and less obvious way.
La Dama del Porto, Laveno-Mombello: La Dama del Porto is a small, stylish boutique hotel on the lakeshore at Laveno-Mombello. The rooms combine minimalist design, high-quality materials and views of Lake Maggiore. A lovely choice if you appreciate clean lines, tranquillity and an intimate atmosphere – with the lake right on your doorstep.
Art Hotel Riposo, Ascona: The Art Hotel Riposo is situated in the picturesque heart of Ascona, just a few steps from the famous square by the lake. It combines artistic details, a romantic ambience and a relaxed Ticino flair – ideal for anyone wishing to experience the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore in style
The result is a selection ranging from modern to atmospheric and historic, offering a wide variety of ways to enjoy a stay on Lake Maggiore.
Photo: Lake Maggiore is a lovely place to visit for much of the year. However, spring and autumn are particularly beautiful.
Lake Maggiore is a pleasant place to visit for much of the year. However, spring and autumn are particularly lovely, when temperatures are mild, the towns feel a little quieter and the light falls more softly on the lake.
In spring, Lake Maggiore is at its most vibrant. Gardens, promenades and lakeside paths come to life without the area feeling too crowded yet. Temperatures of between around 16 and 24 degrees make walks, boat trips and visits to gardens particularly pleasant.
Summer is livelier and ideal for beach holidays, water sports and long evenings by the lake. With temperatures of around 25 to 32 degrees, Lake Maggiore takes on a distinctly Mediterranean feel; those who enjoy the heat and a busier atmosphere will find the lake particularly vibrant at this time.
Autumn is perhaps the most atmospheric time of year to visit. The light becomes softer, the air often remains mild and the towns feel more relaxed. Temperatures of between around 18 and 25 degrees are ideal for day trips, walks, markets and peaceful days by the water.
If you want to experience Lake Maggiore in a particularly relaxed way, it’s best to visit in spring or autumn, when pleasant temperatures combine with a quieter atmosphere.
Photo: Travelling around Lake Maggiore is pleasantly straightforward, especially if you combine train, boat and short walks.
Travelling around Lake Maggiore is pleasantly straightforward, especially when you combine train, boat and short walks. Many towns are situated right on the water’s edge, the main attractions are well connected, and the boat trips in particular make getting around part of the holiday experience.
Travelling by train: From Switzerland, connections are available from Zurich, Basel or Geneva; depending on your destination, this usually involves a change at Milan, Domodossola, Bellinzona or Locarno. Convenient destination stations include Stresa, Verbania-Pallanza, Arona, Luino, Locarno and Ascona (via Locarno with a bus connection).
Travelling by car: Travelling by car gives you flexibility around the lake, particularly for smaller towns, viewpoints and villages above the lakeshore. On the Italian side, depending on the route, the A26 towards Gravellona Toce, the A8 from Milan and regional lakeside roads play an important role. From Switzerland, routes lead to Lake Maggiore via the Gotthard or Simplon passes, amongst others.
On foot: Many towns on Lake Maggiore are wonderful to explore on foot. Stresa, Cannobio, Cannero Riviera, Pallanza, Ascona and Locarno in particular thrive on their promenades, narrow streets and paths along the water’s edge. For some places, you often don’t need a lot of planning – a good pair of shoes and a bit of time are enough.
By boat: Boats are one of the most beautiful ways to experience Lake Maggiore. There are public services, island connections and seasonal timetables; in 2026, the summer timetable for Lake Maggiore will run from 29 March to 4 October. Even short journeys, such as between Stresa and the islands or between towns on the western shore, are well worth it for the views.
By public transport: Buses complement the train and boat services, particularly between railway stations, lakeside towns and smaller villages. On the Swiss side, connections around Locarno and Ascona are usually very well organised, whilst on the Italian side a combination of train, bus and boat is advisable.
By bike or e-bike: A bike or e-bike can be a lovely way to explore individual sections of the lakeshore, go on short excursions and travel between towns. However, it is important to choose your route carefully, as not all lakeside roads are equally pleasant. Handy tip: Bicycles can also be taken on the ferry between Intra and Laveno.
By cable car and scenic routes: Cable cars and scenic routes bring the mountain side of Lake Maggiore closer. Excursions that combine the lake with the hinterland are particularly appealing – for example, a trip to a viewpoint or a journey on the Lago Maggiore Express, which combines boat and train travel.
With these options, you can explore Lake Maggiore easily and without much planning – with enough flexibility for little detours and spontaneous stops along the way.
Conclusion: Lake Maggiore is remembered less for its individual sights than for its special atmosphere. Amidst small harbours, subtropical gardens, tranquil promenades and mountains, a region emerges that feels light, elegant and surprisingly diverse. Those who take their time will discover not only well-known places, but also quiet paths, soft light and moments that linger long in the memory.
© Swiss Bankers 2026
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