Lake Maggiore, Italy - Travel Guide
By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.
Updated: 2026-08-14
Lake Maggiore is a picturesque gem straddling Italy and Switzerland, offering breathtaking views of mountains, enchanting islands, and elegant towns. It's a perfect destination for a relaxing and luxurious holiday, with an abundance of water activities, stunning botanical gardens, and historic architecture.
Plan a trip to Lake Maggiore →
Top things to do in Lake Maggiore
The must-see places in Lake Maggiore include Isola Bella, Stresa, Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, Locarno, Santa Caterina del Sasso and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:
- Isola Bella · Borromean Islands
A beautiful island with a magnificent Baroque palace and stunning terraced gardens, a must-see for any visitor to the lake.
- Stresa · Stresa
An elegant resort town with a beautiful promenade, grand hotels, and a departure point for the Borromean Islands.
- Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens · Pallanza
One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe, with thousands of plant species from all over the world.
- Locarno · Locarno
A large Swiss city with a Mediterranean climate, an international film festival, and a beautiful castle.
- Santa Caterina del Sasso · Leggiuno
A spectacular monastery clinging to a cliff overlooking the lake, accessible by boat or stairs.
- Isola Madre · Borromean Islands
The largest of the Borromean Islands, known for its wonderful botanical gardens and historic palace.
- Ascona · Ascona
A charming Swiss town with narrow alleys, art galleries, and a lively promenade.
- Monumento ai Caduti
- Cima di Morissolo
- Tasso di Cavandone
- Rocca di Angera · Angera
A medieval castle overlooking the lake, featuring an impressive doll collection and panoramic views.
- Museo dell'Arte del Cappello
- Museo Innocente Salvini
- Museo della Cultura Rurale Prealpina
- Paolo Cavanna
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-see places in Lake Maggiore?
Isola Bella, Stresa, Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, Locarno, Santa Caterina del Sasso, Isola Madre
When is the best time to visit Lake Maggiore?
Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.
How do I plan an itinerary for Lake Maggiore?
Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.
