Tucked between the glitz of Lake Como and Lake Garda, Lake Iseo is northern Italy’s hidden gem – a tranquil stretch of water framed by dramatic mountains and lush greenery. Less touristy and easier on the wallet, it’s a favourite among locals who know where to find the charm without the crowds. Whether you fancy a romantic villa with lake views, a cosy farmhouse escape, a chic spa hotel or a family-friendly stay in Sulzano or Lovere, Lake Iseo delivers in style.

Lake Iseo has a charm all of its own, with towns like Iseo, Lovere, Sarnico, and Pisogne offering a more authentic, laid-back Italian vibe than the glitzier nearby lakes. Many of the towns seem to turn their faces toward the water, making a ferry ride one of the best ways to soak in the lakefront architecture. At its heart sits Monte Isola, a lush, inhabited island where narrow, winding streets lead past colourful houses and historic dockyards, hinting at its centuries-old net-making tradition. The coastal road around the lake makes for a particularly scenic drive, with one picture-perfect view after another.

Iseo itself is a lovely spot to linger, with pedestrian-friendly streets, plenty of lakefront cafes and bars, and the kind of atmosphere that invites slow strolls and a bit of people-watching. Though Lake Iseo flies under the radar compared to its famous neighbours, it’s a favourite summer escape for those in the know—so if you’re visiting in peak season, booking your stay well in advance is a smart move.

The Best Places to Stay on Lake Iseo

For Waterside Elegance

• Hotel Araba Fenice- Perched over the lake with balconies that almost touch the water, this stylish 43-room hotel offers everything from family suites to a spa suite with 180° views. Its restaurant boasts equally stunning waterside scenery.

For a Spa Escape

• L’Albereta is a serene, luxurious retreat with 57 rooms, a world-class spa staffed by 30 specialists, and a renowned restaurant. Classic decor meets vineyard views, gardens, and nearby golf—perfect for an indulgent, restorative escape.

For an active break

• Overlooking Monte Isola in Sulzano, Hotel Rivalago offers bright, airy decor, a pool, gardens, and a private beach. Lake views abound, with kayaking, canoeing, trekking, and biking adventures easily arranged for an active, scenic escape.

For a self catering apartment or villa

• If you're travelling as a family or a group of friends it may be a better option to book a villa or apartment. For a wide range of properties for all tastes and budgets we recommend you visit our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Lake Iseo’s nearest international airports are Milan’s airports: Linate, Bergamo Airport and Malpensa Airport. All are approximately an hour and a half by road from the lake.
• If you plan to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Just like its larger neighbours Lake Como and Lake Garda, Lake Iseo is a long, narrow stretch of water in between mountains, which makes it spectacular, but also keeps the temperatures mild. Because Monte Isola is inhabited the ferry service runs year round, making Lake Iseo a viable destination for visitors year round. In the chillier months some business may close, but there’s still plenty of reasons to visit. The autumn colours, for example, and the Christmas festivities. However the most popular time to visit Lake Iseo is when the weather is warmer, April through October. By mid-summer even the lake water has heated up, and can get to 20°C come July! So if you are visiting at this time it’s worth booking as far in advance as you can.

Still not sure?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in the Lombardy region
• Or expand to include our Gurus’ recommendations on Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.