Dive into the beauty of Italy’s lakes. Perfect spots for relaxation and adventure. Find your serene escape now!
If you are looking for a holiday destination, or just to get away and be surrounded by nature, set off with Italo to start discovering the 10 most beautiful lakes in Italy. Immerse yourself in the splendid, picturesque landscapes that surround magical villages suspended in time and do not miss our advice on nature trails and itineraries regarding the lakes that Italy has to offer. With this guide, however, we’ll give you our top recommendations for the most beautiful Italian lakes and explain how to easily reach them with Italo high-speed train.
What are the most beautiful lakes in Italy?
- Lake Garda
- Lake Maggiore
- Lake Como
- Lake Braies
- Lake Resia
- The Fusine Lakes
- Lake Iseo
- Lake Bolsena
- Lake Albano
- Lake Lesina and Varano
1. Lake Garda – Lombardy – Veneto – Trentino-Alto Adige
If you’re looking for a nice holiday escape or mini break, there is so much that Lake Garda has to offer. Set out with Italo and arrive in Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda where panoramas, nature walks, shopping, and many lakeside activities await you!
Where is Lake Garda in Italy?
Its shores spread across Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige. It’s the largest lake in Italy with an area of about 143 square miles (370 square kilometers). It’s renowned for its crystal-clear waters, Mediterranean climate, and stunning surrounding landscape that includes mountains, olive groves, and vineyards. Due to its size, Lake Garda seems like a sea centered amongst the Alps and the Po Valley. It boasts a mild climate, so you can make it your destination at any time of the year.
What to do in Lake Garda italy?
The lake is a popular tourist destination, offering a wide range of activities such as sailing, windsurfing, hiking, and cycling, as well as the opportunity to explore picturesque towns and villages along its shores.
While touring the lake, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the quaint towns that surround it such as Riva del Garda on the shores of Trentino, Malcesine in Veneto, or Sirmione in the province of Brescia. You can even book a bike tour from Peschiera del Garda to Bardolino.
Travel by train from/to Peschiera Del Garda from 7,90 €
Travel by train from/to Desenzano Del Garda from 7,90 €
2. Lake Maggiore – Piedmont – Lombardy
Lake Maggiore is an ideal destination for an unforgettable holiday with all your family or friends, can be reached by traveling by Italo’s high-speed trains, you can arrive in Milan, the most beautiful sights of the city.
Where is Lake Maggiore in Italy?
Lake Maggiore is situated in the northern part of Italy, extending into southern Switzerland. It’s the second largest lake in Italy and lies mainly in the Italian regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, with its northern end reaching into the Swiss canton of Ticino.
What to do in Lake Maggiore?
Once you arrive on the lake, we recommend going to the most prized resorts on Lake Maggiore, such as Arona, Stresa, Pallanza with their pristine waters and inimitable atmospheres, or visit the wonderful Borromean Islands, including Isola Bella. You can also rent canoes, pedal or power boats to explore the whole lake. For venturing out into the surrounding natural landscapes, there are numerous paths around the lake either for cycling or walking.
You can also get a bird’s-eye view of Lake Maggiore thanks to the unique and intimate cable cars that set out from Laveno and arrive at the top of Sasso del Ferro, 1062 meters above sea level. It’s a breathtaking view of the Alps and the lake.
Travel from/to Milan with special offers from 7,9 €
3. Lake Como – Lombardy
For a relaxing trip, we recommend the third largest lake on the Italian peninsula, and one of the deepest in Europe, Lake Como. Cited in the opening of the classic Italian novel The Betrothed, a literary masterpiece by Alessandro Manzoni, with Italo you can see for yourself just why Como is so inspirational, with its impressive landscape and breathtaking villas. One of the most beautiful stretches of water in Italy awaits you!
Where is Lake Como in italy?
Lake Como is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It’s positioned at the foothills of the Alps and is known for its deep glacial origin, making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe. The lake is shaped like an inverted “Y,” giving it a long, winding coastline. Lake Como is approximately 31 miles (about 50 kilometers) north of Milan and is surrounded by picturesque towns and villages such as Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. It’s famed for its stunning scenery, elegant villas, and lush gardens, making it a popular destination for tourists and celebrities alike.
What to do in Lake Como?
Immerse yourself in this place that combines a pre-Alpine environment with a Mediterranean atmosphere to offer you an unparalleled array of sights. Visit and admire the historic villas that surround the lake together with the luxurious residences in this dream location.
- Explore the Town of Como: Starting at the southern tip of the lake, the town of Como is known for its Gothic cathedral, vibrant piazzas, and the funicular railway that leads to the hilltop village of Brunate for panoramic views.
- Visit the Villas and Gardens: Lake Como is famous for its stunning villas. Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, with its art collections and botanical gardens, and Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, known for its elaborate terraced gardens and scenic location, are must-visits.
- Take a Boat Tour: The best way to appreciate Lake Como’s beauty is from the water. Regular ferry services connect the various towns around the lake, offering spectacular views of the mountains and villas.
- Enjoy Bellagio: Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Lake,” Bellagio is known for its cobblestone lanes, elegant buildings, and the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni.
- Hike in the Surrounding Hills and Mountains: For outdoor enthusiasts, there are numerous trails offering magnificent views of the lake and the Alps. The Path of the Wayfarer, from Varenna to Colico, is a popular choice.
- Visit Varenna: This charming fishing village features a lovely waterfront promenade, the botanical gardens of Villa Monastero, and the Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle with breathtaking views.
- Experience Local Cuisine: Lake Como’s cuisine is a blend of Italian and Alpine influences, featuring fresh fish from the lake, polenta, and cheeses. Enjoy dining in lakeside restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Engage in Water Sports: The lake is perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, with several schools and rental facilities available for beginners and experts alike.
Explore the Northern Part of the Lake: The northern part of Lake Como is less crowded and offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Towns like Colico provide access to windsurfing, kite surfing, and other water sports, as well as being gateways to mountainous areas ideal for hiking.
4. Lake Braies – Trentino
Where is Lake Braies in Italy?
Lake Braies, known as Pragser Wildsee in German and Lago di Braies in Italian, is located in the Dolomites mountain range in South Tyrol, northern Italy. This stunning alpine lake is situated in the Prags Valley, 1,496 meters above sea, and part of the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park, and is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking surrounding scenery.
Lake Braies is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers, offering a serene and picturesque setting in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. It’s easily accessible from nearby towns such as Brunico (Bruneck) and is a must-visit for those exploring the Dolomites.
Here you can take a walk around the lake, take countless photos, go fishing or rent one of its famous row boats. It’s so beautiful it naturally looks picture-perfect!
Both summer and winter are great times to visit and it’s always worth it! Set out with Italo and organize your excursion to this fantastic lake.
Travel from/to Bolzano with special offers from 8,9 €
5. Lake Resia – South Tyrol
The fifth lake that we recommend for a visit is also in South Tyrol. Here it seems time has really stopped.
Where is Lake Reschen?
Lake Reschen, known as Reschensee in German and Lago di Resia in Italian, is an artificial lake located in the western portion of South Tyrol, in the province of Bolzano, Italy. It is situated approximately 1 mile (about 2 km) south of the Reschen Pass, which forms the border with Austria, and 2 miles (about 3 km) east of the mountain ridge that forms the border with Switzerland.
The magical feature of this lake is the bell tower of the Romanesque church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, dating back to 1357 which emerges from the lake itself. Lake Resia mixes both history and legends. It is actually an artificial basin in the municipality of Curon Venosta, in the province of Bolzano which has been drained, causing the remains of the original buildings of the town to re-emerge.
The town was flooded in the 1950s after the construction of a large dam to produce electricity, uniting the two natural basins of Lake Resia and Curon.
There is also a legend surrounding that bell tower claiming that when the lake freezes in winter, and the bell tower of Curon can be reached on foot, you can still hear the bells ringing.
For more ways to take in the natural pleasures of South Tyrol, discover Bolzano through excursions and aperitifs and check out our guide to a relaxing weekend in Bolzano: escape from the city to regenerate.
6. The Fusine Lakes – Friuli Venezia Giulia
For the sixth destination for a dream vacation lakeside, travel to Friuli Venezia Giulia with Italo high speed trains and discover 10 evocative, must-see places including the famous Fusine glacial lakes.
You can reach the Fusine Lakes, called Lago Superiore and Lago Inferiore, via beautiful trails at the foot of Mount Mangart. Carved into limestone, the lake basins are surrounded by very high peaks and situated in a luscious green landscape that creates a truly magical atmosphere. Here you can go trekking until you reach the splendid Zacchi Refuge.
If you visit the lakes in winter, the lakes freeze over, and the surrounding landscape is completely transformed. It’s completely worth it to visit the lakes in both summer and winter to discover the scenic charm that the different seasons can offer.
7. Lake Iseo – Lombardy
The sixth lake on our list is the must-see Lake Iseo between the provinces of Bergamo and Brescia, and one of the three major lakes in Brescia which boasts the largest natural Italian lake island and the highest in Europe: Monte Isola. Set out with Italo and arrive in Brescia where mountains, lakes, and sparkling bubbles await you!
Where is Lake Iseo in Italy?
Lake Iseo, also known as Lago d’Iseo or Sebino, is located in northern Italy, nestled between the provinces of Bergamo and Brescia in the Lombardy region. Situated about 62 miles (approximately 100 kilometers) east of Milan and 124 miles (about 200 kilometers) west of Venice, it is the fourth-largest lake in Lombardy. The lake is known for its stunning landscapes, including the large island of Monte Isola, which is one of the most notable features of Lake Iseo. The area is less crowded than some of the other major Italian lakes, offering visitors a more tranquil experience amidst beautiful natural surroundings, quaint towns, and excellent local cuisine.
What to do in Lake Iseo?
On Lake Iseo discover the charming town of Lovere and if you love contemporary art, here’s a fun fact for you, the famous work of art by Chirsto and Jeanne-Claude, The Floating Piers, was installed on the lake for 16 days, from 18 June to 3 July 2016.
If you’re passionate about birdwatching, you can easily reach the Torbiere del Sebino reserve.
Be sure not to miss the historic villas, an exploration of Monte Isola, a visit to the markets of the nearby villages for local cuisine and check out our guide to Bergamo and Brescia what to do and see.
Travel from/to Bergamo with special offers from 8,9 €
Travel from/to Brescia with special offers from 7,9 €
8. Lake Bolsena – Lazio
Our eighth recommendation is Lake Bolsena, the fifth largest in Italy. Travel by Italo and reach Viterbo through our vast connections!
Where is lake Bolsena in Italy?
This lake is located in the Lazio region, near Viterbo, along the volcanic rocks of the Vulsini Mountains and it’s the largest volcanic lake in Europe.
At Lake Bolsena, a holiday filled with nature and charm awaits you thanks also to the quaint towns along the lake’s shores such as Montefiascone, which offers a picturesque view of the entire lake, Bolsena, Marta or Capodimonte.
A visit to Martana Island where legend has it that the ghost of the queen of the Goths, Amalasunta, roams, is worth your while!
Lake Bolsena is ideal for a kayaking trip, or if you want to dive down to the lake floor which is reminiscent of a lunar landscape, or even if you want to start paragliding. There are other classic activities available to you such as fishing, horse riding, and archery. If you’re ready to discover Lazio, check out our guides on where to go and what to see around Rome.
9. Lake Albano – Lazio
Ninth on our list is Lake Albano, which is great for a day trip from Rome. It’s a volcanic lake in the Castelli Romani, in the Alban Hills, 20 km southeast of Rome.
It is also called Lake Castel Gandolfo because the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo, the historic summer residence of several popes, is located there.
Set out with Italo and discover great sights to see around the capital before reaching this enchanting lake.
It’s the fourth largest volcanic basin in Lazio and the deepest at 168 meters. Here, in addition to quaint, nature-rich panoramas, you can visit both prehistoric and Roman archaeological sites, such as the Villaggio delle Macine and the nymphaeum of Bergantino which is part of the larger complex of the Villa di Domiziano. If you love the fresh air, there are many sporting activities both around Lake Albano and on its waters, such as canoeing, pedal boating, jogging, mountain biking, or a relaxing walk through the surrounding woods.
Visit the towns bordering its shores, such as Albano Laziale and Castel Gandolfo, for a spectacular view of the whole lake.
Travel from/to Rome with special offers from 9,9 €
10. Lake Lesina and Lake Varano – Puglia
Our tenth and final recommendation regards the two closely situated lakes Lesina and Varano, in Puglia which lie between Tavoliere and the Gargano Promontory. Set out with Italo for a weekend in Puglia and reach these brackish waters that span over twenty kilometers. Lake Lesina and Varano are separated from the Adriatic Sea by a sandy dune, called Bosco Isola and reach the sea through the mouths of three rivers. If you love fishing, the abundant waters of both these lakes are full of eels. If you love taking long walks, these lakes are ideal for a day of peaceful excursions and in the summer for taking in the sun.
Don’t miss out on visiting Cagnano, a town characterized by white houses that contrast beautifully with the blue waters. Also check out our guides on what to eat in Foggia and what to see in Vico del Gargano, both low-cost destinations for a fun-filled summer.
Reach the Italian Lakes with Italo
What’s the easiest and fastest way to move around Italy? Italo high-speed trains! Get on board, make yourself comfortable and we’ll take care of the rest. Buy your modifiable low-cost ticket now and discover all the various destinations and train timetables to reach our recommendations for the most beautiful Italian lakes thanks to Italo’s connections.
Remember to always log in to your account to also take advantage of Italo Più offers and rates dedicated to members only. If you haven’t already done so, you can register for free in the Italo Più Loyalty Program and immediately get a 5% discount on your first trip and accumulate points with your consecutive trips to earn free reward tickets.
