While Lake Como has long captured the global spotlight with its reputation for glitz and glamour, Lake Maggiore, Italy's second-largest lake, is emerging as an attractive, less crowded alternative for discerning travellers. Located roughly an hour's drive from Milan, the region boasts sapphire waters, Alpine backdrops, and subtropical gardens, creating a unique landscape that blends dramatic peaks with Mediterranean charm. This unsung destination, popular with Italian, Swiss, German, Austrian, and French holidaymakers for generations, is now drawing wider attention for its authentic Italian experience.
The lake's rich history is intertwined with the aristocratic House of Borromeo, whose enduring legacy is particularly evident on the Borromean Islands, which remain under family ownership. Stresa, on the Piedmont shore, is often cited as a prime base for exploring the area. This grand resort town, famed for its Belle Époque hotels and elegant villas, serves as a crucial ferry hub, providing easy access to the Borromean Islands and beyond. Further south, Arona offers a vibrant local atmosphere, while Verbania is home to the majestic Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto. Near the Swiss border, Cannobio captivates visitors with its medieval lanes and picturesque promenade.
The Lombardy shore, though more low-key, offers its own array of attractions, including the medieval Rocca di Angera fortress. Laveno-Mombello's colourful harbour evokes the charm of a Ligurian beach village, and its aerial cableway offers breathtaking views from Monte Sasso del Ferro, though the open-air, bucket-shaped cars may not be for the faint of heart. Near the Swiss border, Luino hosts a bustling weekly market every Wednesday, where nearly 400 stalls offer everything from local produce to artisanal goods.
Accommodation options on Lake Maggiore cater to a range of preferences. The newly opened Boutique Hotel Stresa, housed in Villa Ostini and launched in 2024, offers a contemporary contrast to the town's traditional grandeur with its 28 suites, custom Italian furnishings, and a rooftop infinity pool. For those seeking classic luxury, Hotel Villa & Palazzo Aminta, originally a private residence from 1872, provides 66 individually decorated rooms and suites adorned with Murano chandeliers.
For UK travellers considering Lake Maggiore, no visa is currently required for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, as Italy is part of the Schengen Area. However, it is always advisable to check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice before booking. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Direct flights from major UK airports to Milan Malpensa (MXP), which is approximately an hour's drive from Lake Maggiore, are widely available, with airlines like easyJet and British Airways offering regular services. Budget approximately £150-£300 for a return flight, depending on the season and booking lead time.