Stresa, perched on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, is a postcard-perfect blend of Art Nouveau elegance, grand villas, and sweeping lake views. This stylish Italian town is famous for its opulent lakeside hotels—think historic grande dames with glamorous pasts—yet you’ll also find charming villa guesthouses and budget-friendly stays tucked into quiet streets. For luxury, stay by the waterfront promenade; for a more relaxed vibe, head towards the ferry port for easy island-hopping to the stunning Borromean Islands.

Stresa has a charm that’s hard to resist, with its grand lakeside villas like Villa Ducale and Villa Pallavicino offering a glimpse into its elegant past. Strolling through town, you’ll find stylish boutiques, cosy cafes, and sun-dappled terraces perfect for a leisurely coffee or aperitivo. In summer, music drifts through the air during the lively “Settimane Musicali” festival, while spring and autumn bring smaller, intimate events. And when you need a break from sightseeing, the town’s peaceful little beaches are just a short walk from the ferry dock, making it a wonderfully relaxed spot for families and couples alike.

The Best Places to Stay in Stresa

For Lakeside Luxury

• A Lake Maggiore icon since 1863, Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées blends Belle Époque charm with five-star luxury. Expect sweeping lake views, palatial halls, marble staircases, ornate decor, and impeccable service at the heart of Stresa’s elegant lakeside promenade.
• Villa e Palazzo Aminta is an opulent Belle Époque lakeside retreat where chandeliers sparkle, suites exude timeless grandeur, and every balcony opens to sweeping Lake Maggiore vistas. Indulge in two gourmet restaurants, a lavish spa, and serene private beachside moments.

For Foodies

• Perched on Isola dei Pescatori, Hotel Verbano is a romantic lakeside escape famed for its cuisine. With just 12 charming rooms, it offers intimate island tranquility and a celebrated terrace restaurant where fresh lake fish and regional specialties delight discerning food lovers.

Prefer a self catering Apartment or holiday Villa?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The closest international airports to Stresa are Milan Malpensa, which is about 45 minutes drive, or an hour and a half on the train, and Milan Linate, which is just over an hour away by car. If you’re travelling by train there are plenty of large local stations to go via, including Zürich, Bern and Milan.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Summer is the most popular time to visit Lake Maggiore. It’s not as popular as Lake Como or Lake Garda, but it’s still much loved by Italian families, and everyone who appreciates stunning natural beauty, and woodsy walking trails. If you’re not restricted by school holidays, it’s worth considering May through June, or September and October to visit Lake Maggiore, because it’s especially green and verdant in spring, and beautifully copper golden come autumn. You’ll get some rain in both of these windows, but you’d be unlucky to have so much that it spoils your trip. Easter and Christmas are always wonderful celebrations in Italy, but it does get chilly on the lake.

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include all our recommendations for best places to stay on Lake Maggiore
• Or search for all the best places to stay in Piedmont or the best places to stay in Lombardy, which is just on the other side of Lake Maggiore
• You may also want to consider the best places to stay in Locarno, Ascona or Cannero Riviera.
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.