Everyone’s heard of Lake Como, but have you heard of Lake Maggiore? Straddling two different regions – Piedmont and Lombardy – and stretching into Switzerland’s Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, Lake Maggiore boasts grand historic palaces and the famous Borromean Islands.
It’s no wonder Maggiore’s palm-lined promenades were a favourite among Hemingway, Chaplin and many others. At 82 square miles, it’s Italy’s second-largest lake after Lake Garda, surrounded by cobbled small towns that feel a world away from the crowds of Como. From the elegant promenades of Stresa and Cannobio to the sun-kissed streets of Ascona, Lake Maggiore is the place to be – if you’re in the know.
That’s where our Villa Specialists come in, bringing 35 years of experience and an intimate knowledge of northern Italy. No request is too big or too small for our team, who can elevate your stay with their local expertise. Browse the full collection today and find a villa that matches your exact requirements.
Towns to Visit in Lake Maggiore
Stresa
Set just offshore from the Borromean Islands, Stresa was once the ‘grande dame’ of Italian Lake resorts. Of all the small towns surrounding Lake Maggiore, Stresa is the most built-up in terms of infrastructure. Still, it has retained its authentic charm, with cobblestone streets, Belle Époque architecture and an elegant promenade which stretches for over 500km along the lakefront.
Why go: Stresa is a cultural hub immersed in nature, offering a perfect blend of local things to see, eat and do.
Good for: Lakeside strolls and boat trips to the Borromean Islands.
Local tip: To experience Stresa like a local, take the funicular up to Mottarone. From there, you’ll witness panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and its surrounding mountains. Or charter a private boat with our complimentary Concierge and hop between the idyllic Borromean Islands.
Cannobio
Known for its elegant, pastel-coloured facades, Cannobio is regarded as one of the prettiest towns on the lake. On Sunday mornings, a local market takes over the buzzy waterfront piazza, selling everything from fresh produce to leather goods. Beyond the piazza, stroll along the beautiful lakefront promenade and discover a maze of narrow lanes lined with 16th–17th century architecture.
Why go: It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxed few days, stopping at the town’s many cafes and restaurants.
Good for: A more relaxed stay. Cannobio is ideal if you prefer quieter towns rather than the larger resort-style ones.
Local tip: The atmosphere is especially atmospheric in the evening – follow the waterfront after dinner for a sunset stroll.
Ascona
Located on the south-facing side of the Maggia delta, on the Swiss side of the lake, Ascona offers a different feel to many of its Italian counterparts. Since the 1890s, this fishing hamlet has grown into a go-to small town for visitors.
A stroll along the buzzy Piazza Motta, the cobbled lakefront promenade, offers sensational views past the Brissago islands. Take a leisurely amble back through Ascona’s cobbled lanes to find artisan markets, upmarket restaurants and galleries.
Why go: For a blend of lakeside art galleries, stylish cafés and boutique shopping – not to mention its Mediterranean-style climate.
Good for: A mix of traditional family-run trattorias, Michelin-starred cuisine and lakeside strolls.
Local tip: Head up to Monte Verità, just above Ascona, for a panoramic view of Lake Maggiore.
Arona
Spend the morning in Arona, a picturesque town located 16km south of Stresa. This lakeside spot is known for its colourful 19th-century mansions and elegant piazzas, where locals pause for their morning coffee.
Climb up to the colossal statue of San Carlo Borromeo – one of the largest in the world – for the views alone. Back in town, linger at a café on Piazza del Popolo or peruse the local shops for unique souvenirs to take home.
Why go: For a pleasant meander around Piazza del Popolo, Arona’s picturesque square, decorated with Gothic arches.
Good for: Sightseeing, lakeside strolls and some retail therapy in the old quarter's central shopping street, Via Cavour. Our concierge service can help arrange personalised shopping tours.
Local tip: Head to Parco della Rocca Borromea for a slow stroll and an aperitivo at the park’s bar and café.
Verbania
Verbania is one of Maggiore’s many iconic lakeside towns, affectionately known as “the garden on the lake”. Grand villas line its shores, offering panoramic views of the Borromean Islands and mountains that frame the landscape.
Make sure to visit the town’s beautiful botanical gardens at Villa Taranto, where you’ll find an extensive collection of rhododendrons, vibrant flowerbeds and grand boulevards.
Why go: Verbania offers palm-lined promenades, majestic villas and the spectacular Villa Taranto botanical gardens.
Good for: Those who want a nearby base with more amenities (shops, restaurants) while still enjoying a scenic lakeside setting.
Local tip: Consider staying at Cà Corniolo Maggiore and enjoying day trips to Verbania and nearby villages. Art and history lovers should also visit Domodossola.
Book Your Private Villa near Lake Maggiore
Sleeping from 4 to 20 guests, our luxury villa rentals in Northern Italy provide an idyllic base for exploring the Belle Époque towns of Lake Maggiore.
Browse our handpicked collection and discover grand mountainside retreats, elegant Palladian countryside estates and opulent Venetian palazzi.
From the moment you book, you'll enjoy unlimited access to our award-winning Concierge service, ready to arrange private boat charters, in-villa chefs and bespoke experiences.