10 Best Lakes in Italy

Renowned for its crystal clear water and breathtaking mountain views, Lake Garda is a playground beloved for its vast array of water sports and indulgent al fresco dining. One can easily spend a week here visiting towns like Sirmione, Malcesine and Limone sul Garda, where you can wander the characterful streets and scenic waterfront promenades.

Spend time by the shore savouring scrumptious handmade pasta or venture inland to discover vineyards, orchards and olive groves. Must-see attractions include Scaligero Castle (a fortification dating back to the 13th century) and Il Vittoriale degli Italiani (a hillside estate with heavenly gardens).

Located in Italy’s Piedmont region, Lake Orta is a lesser-known vacation spot that teems with glorious gardens, venerated spiritual sites, elegant wineries and ritzy waterfront restaurants. Wander Sacro Monte di Orta (an age-old pilgrimage complex) that features 20 chapels, artful sculptures and beautifully detailed frescoes.

After you’ve spent a day on the lake visiting the Isola di San Giulio monastery, stop by Locanda di Orta for Michelin-star cuisine. Acclaimed chef Andrea Monesi serves mouth-watering courses with perfectly paired wines including fresh tagliatelle, rabbit tonnato and a decadent dessert called 50 Shades of Chocolate.

Spanning both Italy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore draws jetsetters from across the globe to its idyllic islands, landscaped gardens and centuries-old architecture. A major drawcard is Villa Taranto, a botanical wonderland designed by an expat Scot, that’s celebrated for its exotic herbarium, lotus collection and blooming dahlia maze.

Take a scenic boat ride across the water to view Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso, a 13th century hermitage and church that’s carved into a teetering cliff. Alternatively, venture to Isola dei Pescatori, a characterful fishing village located on a little island that’s peppered with atmospheric restaurants serving freshly caught seafood.

Celebs flock to Lake Como for its cinematic sweep of water, rugged mountain backdrop, romantic villages and alluring beaches. Between March and November, the region’s most opulent mansions throw open their doors and gardens to the wider visiting public including Villa Balbianello, Villa Monastero and Villa Melzi.

Inside Como City’s 12th century fortress walls, spend a lazy afternoon sipping lattes in Piazza Cavour or stop by iconic cultural drawcards like the Gothic Como Cathedral. Enjoy panoramic views of the lake from the crescent-shaped promenade before grabbing a table at La Vita è Bella for squid ragu, bluefin tuna and baked blueberry cheesecake.

Stunning towns and succulent seafood are just some of Lake Iseo’s many attractions. Take a picturesque boat ride to the heart of the lake where the island of Monte Isola awaits your discovery. Visit the historic Madonna della Ceriola church or stroll along the promenade for restaurants, cafes and gelaterias. L'Isola dei Sapori offers waterfront dining with incredible views and a range of artisanal dishes.

Wine connoisseurs will relish a trip to Franciacorta, a region dotted with magical vineyards like Al Rocol, Castello Bonomi and Abrami Elisabetta (famed for its Pinot Noir). Nature enthusiasts can explore the great outdoors at Torbiere del Sebino, while budding archaeologists can search for ancient ruins in the historic town of Predore.

Located on the border of southern Switzerland and northern Italy, the glacial beauty of Lake Lugano has captured the imagination of visitors and artists for centuries. Adored for its cultural festivals, hearty food and outdoor pursuits, visit any one of its unspoiled towns for a dreamy weekend getaway.

On sunny days, hit La Gelateria di Lugano (which offers incredible views of the water) for black cherry, pistachio and star bread ice cream. With cup in hand, stroll through the neighbouring Parco Ciani to sit on the manicured lawns or ascend to the summit of Monte Brè in a bright red funicular tram.

With its astounding aquamarine hue and dramatic mountain backdrop, Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is a remarkably beautiful lake that’s located in the rugged Dolomites. Here, you’ll enjoy access to a white sand beach, rentable rowboats and an array of picturesque hiking trails.

A perennial Instagram favourite, this iconic Italian hotspot is a magnet for travellers looking for some serious R&R time in the middle of the alpine wilderness. On the western shore, discover the charming Capella di Maria chapel that dates all the way back to 1904.

Lake Bracciano is an expansive volcanic beauty spot, a short drive northwest from Rome. Known for its swimming, boating and clean, pretty beaches, this holiday enclave is a hit with families looking for some good old-fashioned fun in the sun.

Visit the town of Bracciano to see Castello Corsini-Odescalchi: a 15th century castle that once belonged to the infamous Borgia family (in modern times it’s played host to celebrity weddings including that of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes). Alternatively, venture to the historic commune of Anguillara Sabazia to explore its medieval town centre that’s packed with atmospheric restaurants and magnificent gardens.

Situated between the bright green hills of Umbria and the verdant valleys of Tuscany, Lake Trasimeno is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Enjoy truffle hunting, wine tastings and boat trips to islands marked by sun-kissed olive groves, charming fishing villages and centuries-old monasteries.

On Polvese Island, explore the Abbey of San Secondo: a ruined Benedictine wonder of Romanesque design. At Passignano sul Trasimeno (a village that’s frequently hailed as one of Italy’s most beautiful) you’ll discover a medieval castle, a wealth of historic chapels and the Church of Santa Maria Maddalen that dates back to the 1400s.

Enveloped by a crown of emerald hills, Lake Bolsena spans 44 square miles and is lined with black sand beaches and enchanting towns including Marta, Capodimonte and Montefiascone. Board a ferry to visit the uninhabited Isola Martana or take in spectacular vistas from a rented boat.

The medieval town of Bolsena is beloved for its Rocca Monaldeschi della Cervara fortress and medieval streets (where authentic Italian dining is yours). Stop by Ristorante Il Toscano for mixed platters of cold cuts and cheeses or Trattoria del Moro for pizza and pasta.