Visit Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore, named ‘Verbana' after the flowers that bloom in the region by the locals, is regarded as the most scenic of the Italian Lakes; the Lake's translucent quality is attributed to the tears of unrequited lovers and romantic poets.

Sprawling across the border of Italy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore is a polostcard-perfect destination. Back dropped by the snow-capped peaks of the Alps and peppered with pretty fishing villages, it enchants visitors with its rustic charm. Highlights of a holiday here include day trips to the beautiful Borromean Islands, the unparalleled views from the Mottarone Cable Car, weekly food markets serving up delicious Italian delicacies, and the cobbled streets of bustling Stresa. Our Italy experts are available to help plan your visit.

Northern Italy and the Lakes fly-drive

13-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,135 pp incl. flights

Blue lakes, snow-crested mountains, grand villas and some of Italy's finest Belle Époque hotels provide the backdrop to this tailor-made driving holiday through beautiful northern Italy.

Hidden Lakes of Northern Italy

11-day tailor-made self-drive from £1,800 pp incl. flights

Explore northern Italy without the crowds, stepping a little off the beaten track to discover some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, with stays at four of the region's lesser-known lakes.

Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands

8-day tailor-made holiday from £2,770 pp incl. flights

Following an overnight stay amid the culture and fashion of Milan, head north to the heart of the beautiful Italian Lakes for a stay at a converted palazzo on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

Best of the Aosta Valley

10-day tailor-made self-drive from £1,255 pp incl. flights

Discover the stunning Alpine scenery and rich cultural heritage of Italy’s northwestern corner, with stays in the Piedmont countryside and opportunities to explore Turin on either side.

Top places to stay in Lake Maggiore

Grand Hotel Majestic, Lake Maggiore

Guide price from £780 pp

As one of Condé Nast Traveler’s top 50 hotels in Italy, you can expect true lakeside luxury, evidenced across fine dining restaurants, the slice of private beach and delightful rooms.

Grand Hotel Imperiale, Lake Como

Guide price from £1,050 pp incl. flights

Lying at the foot of the pretty town of Moltrasio on Lake Como's western shore, the Grand Hotel Imperiale offers an attractive lakefront swimming pool and a smart restaurant with lake vistas serving excellent gourmet dishes.

Villa Crespi, Lake Orta

Historic hotel

The extraordinary Moorish palace complete with glittering chandeliers, intricate arabesques, and marble columns, combined with a renowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant run by celebrity chef Cannavacciuolo.

Villa Cordevigo, Lake Garda

Historic resort

Nestled among vineyards a short drive east of Lake Garda, The Italian gardens are embellished with statues, there’s a well-equipped Spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant serving exquisite Mediterranean cuisine

See all places to stay

When to go to Lake Maggiore

Average temperature (℃)

Average rainfall (mm)

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Max temp Min temp Rainfall

For the longest, brightest and sunniest days, Lake Maggiore’s prime holiday season is between late April and early October. The bloom of spring brings with it plenty of blossom, making it the best time to see the destination’s renowned flora and fauna, whilst a visit during the midsummer months is best for those wanting to swim in the crystalline waters of the idyllic lake.

See regional weather

Lake Maggiore articles

Gardesana Occidentale road near Tremosine, Lake Garda

Italian Lakes in focus

From the vineyard-lined shores of Garda to the glamorous villas of Como, Wexas expert Adam Lowe shows you why the Italian Lakes should be at the top of your holiday wishlist for 2025.