A LONG WEEKEND ON LAKE MAGGIORE: A PERFECT ITINERARY
Lake Maggiore, nestled between Italy and Switzerland, offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural exploration, or a taste of la dolce vita, this region has it all.
This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of a long weekend on Lake Maggiore, highlighting the must-see spots and activities for each day of your stay, along with some excellent dining recommendations.
Day 1: Explore the Borromean Islands
Kick off your long weekend with a visit to the Borromean Islands. Start your day by taking a boat from Stresa to Isola Bella, where you can explore the grand Borromeo Palace and its magnificent gardens. Continue to Isola Madre, known for its lush botanical gardens and peacocks roaming freely. End your island-hopping adventure on Isola dei Pescatori, a quaint fishing village with charming restaurants and shops.
- Lunch Options:
- Hotel Restaurant Verbano on Isola dei Pescatori offers stunning lake views and fresh, local cuisine, making it a romantic choice for a leisurely meal. Website | Phone: +39 0323 30408
- For a less touristy option, Restaurant Lago Maggiore in Stresa provides a cozy atmosphere and authentic dishes. Website | Phone: +39 0323 31570
- Dinner Options:
- Sky Bar at Hotel La Palma in Stresa offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Maggiore, making it an ideal spot for a sunset aperitif. The stylish rooftop bar serves a variety of cocktails and small bites, creating a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening.
Website | Phone: +39 0323 32401 - Head to the hills above Stresa for a memorable dinner at La Rampolina, known for its breathtaking panoramic views and creative local cuisine. Website | Phone: +39 0323 929136
- Alternatively, enjoy a rustic farm-to-table experience at L’Ordin, an agritourism restaurant where dishes are made with products grown on-site. Website | Phone: +39 338 7531486
- Il Clandestino in Stresa is a hidden gem, recommended by clients for its intimate setting and fresh, seasonal dishes. This contemporary Italian restaurant is particularly known for its seafood.
Website | Phone: +39 0323 933794
- Sky Bar at Hotel La Palma in Stresa offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Maggiore, making it an ideal spot for a sunset aperitif. The stylish rooftop bar serves a variety of cocktails and small bites, creating a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening.
To reach the Borromean Islands, you have several convenient options:
- Public Ferries: Operated by Navigazione Laghi, public ferries run regularly from Stresa, Baveno, and Verbania to the islands. You can purchase tickets at the harbor or online, with hop-on-hop-off options to visit multiple islands in one day.
- Website | Phone: +39 0323 668015
- Private Boat Services: Various private boat companies in Stresa offer more flexible and personalized tours to the Borromean Islands. These boats can be hired for small groups or private trips, and often provide direct routes and more schedule freedom.
- Consorzio Motoscafisti Stresa: Website | Phone: +39 0323 30195
Both options provide easy access to Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori for a full day of exploration and a perfect itinerary.
Day 2: Discover the Gardens and Lakeside Towns
On your second day, immerse yourself in the beauty of some of the world’s most stunning gardens. Head to Villa Taranto in Verbania, where you’ll find an extraordinary collection of rare plants and flowers in beautifully landscaped settings. After exploring the gardens, take a stroll along the lakeside promenade of Pallanza, a picturesque town with colorful buildings and stunning views. Continue to Intra, known for its lively market, boutiques, and a charming old town perfect for a leisurely walk and a gelato stop by the lake.
- Lunch/Dinner Options:
- Il Burchiello in Pallanza is a lakeside restaurant with elegant ambiance and exquisite seafood dishes, perfect for dining with a view. Website | Phone: +39 0323 556913
- In Intra, La Casera offers a unique focus on local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional Italian dishes, providing a cozy and authentic experience for a perfect itinerary. Website | Phone: +39 0323 403004
Day 3: Visit Lake Orta and San Giulio Island
Spend your third day exploring the serene and romantic Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden gems. Start in the town of Orta San Giulio, where you can wander through cobblestone streets and enjoy the beautiful views. Take a short boat ride to San Giulio Island, home to an ancient basilica and surrounded by an enchanting atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sacro Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site with chapels dedicated to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, offering stunning views over the lake.
- Lunch and Dinner Options:
- Restaurant La Motta offers a charming atmosphere with delicious local dishes and a great selection of wines in the heart of Orta San Giulio. Website | Phone: +39 0322 905168
- For a Michelin-starred experience, La Locanda di Orta serves elegant and creative dishes, perfect for a gourmet meal. Website | Phone: +39 0322 905280
- Due Santi and Venus are great options for traditional and lakeside dining, offering excellent local flavors and beautiful settings.
- Outside Orta, Hotel Restaurant Il Giardinetto offers exquisite lakeside dining with fresh fish dishes and stunning sunset views. Website | Phone: +39 0322 982233
- Acqua By The Lake and Luci sul Lago provide contemporary dining experiences with innovative menus and lovely views.
Day 4: Discover Historic Sites and End the Day in Arona
Spend your final day exploring the historic and scenic spots around Lake Maggiore. Begin with a visit to the Rocca di Angera, an impressive medieval castle offering panoramic views of the lake. For a perfect itinerary continue your journey to the Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso on the Lombardy side, a stunning monastery built into the cliffs. This day of exploration will give you a deep dive into the rich history and breathtaking scenery of the region.
- Lunch Options:
- Birra & Farina in Castelletto Ticino is known for its homely atmosphere and delicious, homemade Italian fare, perfect for a relaxed family meal. Website | Phone: +39 0331 971110
- Ristorante Verbella in Sesto Calende offers a laid-back atmosphere and great selection of Italian classics, ideal for a leisurely lunch. Website | Phone: +39 0331 922946
- On your way from Stresa, Il Rapanello in Lesa is known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere and traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Website | Phone: +39 0323 349005
- Dinner in Arona:
- For the evening, head to Restaurant Da Aldo, a renowned dining spot in Arona known for its excellent cuisine and lakeside setting. The perfect place to end your weekend with an aperitif and a memorable dinner. Website | Phone: +39 0322 242089
As a local living in the region since 2014, I have personally experienced and tested each of these recommended spots. While these suggestions come from my own experiences and preferences for a perfect itinerary, I encourage you to explore and find the places that best match your own tastes and expectations.
These are simply my personal opinions, and Lake Maggiore has countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered!
The Italian lakes are some of the most romantic places in the world, offering stunning backdrops of crystal-clear waters, majestic mountains, and picturesque villages. If you’re dreaming of a wedding on the Italian lakes, contact me to start planning your unforgettable celebration in one of the most enchanting destinations on earth.
