Lake Maggiore

Photo of Lake Maggiore
Photo of Lake Maggiore
Credit: Flickr user Selden Vestrit
Photo of Lake Maggiore
Credit: Flickr user Carollen Coenen
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About Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore, the Italian Lake District’s Mediterranean-style gem, stretches from the Swiss Alps to Italy’s sun-drenched shores. With lush gardens, sparkling blue water, and postcard-perfect towns, it’s a dream base for every kind of traveler. You’ll find everything from luxe lakeside hotels in glamorous Ascona and Locarno, to charming family-run stays in Cannero Riviera or romantic villas in Stresa. For boutique design or wellness retreats, head south to sleepy Ranco. There’s a hotel here with your name on it.

Lake Maggiore is a dreamy spot where borders blur and the air is lemon-scented, with palm trees and camellias lining its wooded shoreline—a joy to stroll any time of year. It’s a haven not just for walkers, but also for cyclists, sailors, and paddlers looking to soak in the calm, crystal-clear waters. The towns around the lake are charming and full of character, with historic architecture, lively markets, and delicious local food. Families especially love the peaceful beaches and the scenic mix of vineyards and alpine views that frame the whole area.

The Best Places to Stay on Lake Maggiore

For a special occasion

  • Perched above Locarno, Villa Orselina offers sweeping lake and Alpine views from all 28 serene, white-toned rooms. Expect sun-drenched terraces, a panoramic pool, vaulted wine cellar, and gourmet dining—plus a 15th-century church just steps away if you feel like exploring.
  • Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées- A jewel of Stresa, this Lake Maggiore landmark dazzles with Belle Époque elegance—chandeliers, frescoes, velvet, and lake-view balconies. Five-star facilities include indoor/outdoor pools, a grand spa, fine dining, and lush gardens, making it the pinnacle of Italian lakeside luxury.
  • Villa e Palazzo Aminta is a romantic Belle Époque mansion with dazzling Lake Maggiore views, glamorous suites, gourmet dining, and a luxe spa set in a cave. Think chandeliers, antiques, and total indulgence — perfect for marking a special celebration in style.

For luxury

  • Giardino Ascona- This chic lakeside retreat in Ascona pairs light-filled rooms—some opening straight onto lush, fragrant gardens—with standout luxury. Indoor/outdoor pools, a private yacht, and the two-Michelin-starred Ecco Ascona restaurant make it a destination for indulgence in both nature and fine dining.
  • Eden Roc blends lakeside glamor with unbeatable amenities: four stylish restaurants (including one Michelin-starred), a world-class spa, private beach with water sports, and even hotel Vespas. Its 100 sleek rooms share panoramic views and a vibe that’s both luxurious and effortlessly cool.

For families

  • A serene lakeside escape near Ascona, Castello del Sole feels blissfully remote thanks to its vast, mountain-framed grounds. With 78 elegant rooms, a top-tier spa, tennis courts, sailing, kids’ activities, and more, it’s ideal for both relaxed couples and active families.

For romantics

  • A romantic 15th-century retreat with just 12 rooms, Locanda de Mai Intees features frescoes, beamed ceilings, vast fireplaces, and soaring windows. Rooms brim with historic charm—some with mezzanines for families. Expect gourmet dining, private rooms, and an atmosphere steeped in timeless elegance.
  • Castello Seeschloss- Right on the lake, this former castle dazzles with towers, frescoes, vaulted ceilings, and ornate finishes. Its 45 rooms range from rustic-chic to full-blown opulence. Add a heated pool, lakeside gardens, wine cellar, and cooking classes, and it’s a truly enchanting escape.
  • La Dama del Porto is a sleek, romantic retreat with sweeping Lago Maggiore views. Designed by Claire Kimball, the rooms blend elegant minimalism with luxe comfort. The lakeside restaurant serves up unforgettable flavors with sunset panoramas – perfect for lingering date nights.

For a cozy escape

  • Hotel Isole Di Brissago- This dreamy lakeside villa offers just ten vintage-style rooms with antiques, marble bathrooms, and private balconies. Overlooking magical lake views beside the island’s botanical gardens, it feels like a private escape. The elegant atmosphere and acclaimed restaurant seal the feeling of exclusive indulgence.
  • Albergo Belvedere is a charming lakeside inn with 12 bright, simple rooms—all with lake views. Known for its excellent restaurant, candlelit private dining, and warm, friendly vibe, it’s the perfect low-key escape for food lovers who appreciate relaxed charm over frills.
  • La Capuccina- Just south of Arona, this stylish agriturismo offers nine bold, individually decorated rooms—some with terraces, family space, or private saunas. There’s a fantastic farm-to-table restaurant, a kid-friendly farmyard with animals, and a games room. Ideal for families seeking fun and authenticity in the countryside.

For exploring

  • Art Hotel Riposo- Bright, friendly, and full of charm, this 31-room gem in Ascona offers stunning lake views, private balconies, and a relaxed vibe. With live music nights, two restaurants, and an intimate feel, it’s a perfect pick for laid-back stays with a touch of flair.
  • Stylish and right on the water, Giardino Lago is a 14-room boutique hotel near Locarno that's perfect for active couples. Expect sleek rooms with lake views, a vibrant cocktail terrace, a top-notch restaurant, free bikes, and a surprisingly full menu of watersports—all in a picture-perfect setting.

For foodies

  • A tranquil lakeside retreat with 14 traditionally styled rooms, Il Sole di Ranco is all about relaxed charm and unbeatable views. Its gourmet restaurant—famed for fresh lake fish—offers alfresco dining on sunny days, and even hosts hands-on cooking classes for guests.

For an island stay

  • On tiny Isola dei Pescatori, Hotel Verbano is a romantic 12-room hideaway with lake views, rustic charm, and a beloved waterside restaurant. With its intimate feel, historic character, and postcard-perfect setting, it’s ideal for weddings, honeymoons, or an unforgettable island escape.

For walkers

  • Casa Ambica- Tucked away in peaceful Gordevio, this beautifully restored 19th-century villa has just five rooms—don’t miss the attic suite with sweeping lake and valley views. A cozy lounge with a fireplace, a charming garden, and hearty breakfasts make it a warm, tranquil base for exploring.

For great value

  • A stylish lakeside villa with 31 airy rooms, Park Hotel Italia blends elegant proportions with unfussy comfort. All rooms have balconies and views; so do the pool and terrace restaurant. With tennis courts and Mediterranean cuisine, it’s ideal for relaxed, scenic stays in Cannero Riviera.
  • Family-run and full of charm, Hotel Cannero sits right on the lakefront. Its 55 rooms range from antique-filled classics to sleek, modern styles—many with terraces and lake views. Enjoy a piano bar, pool, tennis, and a wine bar just steps from the water.

Prefer a self catering apartment or 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

  • Milan’s airports, Milan Malpensa and Milan Linate, are the closest airports to the southern end of Lake Maggiore, about an hour and a half away by car, depending on where exactly you’re staying. However, Milan isn’t particularly well connected to the lake by public transport, so if that’s important to you, you might find it easier to fly into Zürich Airport, and travel south to the northern shores of the lake. Depending on where you’re staying it will be between two and three hours drive, or around five hours by public transport.
  • 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 a destination as Lake Como or Lake Garda, but it’s still much loved by Italian families, and everyone who appreciates bluey-greeny 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.

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The best hotels in Lake Maggiore

Castello Seeschloss

Castello Seeschloss

Ascona (Ascona)

This magnificent Castello's setting on the shore of Lake Maggiore is truly special. The high-ceiling rooms are palatial, with large windows and ornate plaster-work and furnishings. With a heated pool and a restaurant offering lakeside dining with stunning views. A perfect romantic destination.

  • Active Holiday - With such a maginificent setting, one is involuntarily drawn outdoors, to swim, hike, or perhaps just for a lakeside stoll!
  • Back to Nature - Get up into the hills surrounding Lake Maggiore to see the beautiful mountain lake and its environs
  • Great walks - Whether you want to do some serious hiking or just a gentle lakeside stroll, all is possible from the village of Ancona
  • Cooking classes - The hotel organises cooking classes on request. Ask at reception for more information
from $102 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
La Dama del Porto

La Dama del Porto

Lake Maggiore (Lombardy)

A stylish boutique hotel overlooking Lago Maggiore. Rooms are a tactile haven, curated by architect Claire Kimball, designed for relaxation amidst breathtaking views. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the restaurant with a panoramic lakeside backdrop. Elegant minimalism meets luxury.

  • Great walks - Embark on a serene stroll at Cerro beach, where clear waters and alpine vistas offer a perfect pause from life's hustle
  • Sights nearby - Ascend Monte Sasso del Ferro by cable car for a thrilling encounter with breathtaking alpine and lake panoramas
  • Sailing - Explore Isola Bella by boat, where stunning botanical gardens and historical palaces await your discovery
  • Foodies - Feast on local flavours and fresh ingredients at a lakeside spot where each dish is a masterpiece
from $109 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
La Capuccina

La Capuccina

Lake Maggiore (Cureggio )

A real agritourism experience in a renovated farmhouse headed by famed chef Gianluca Zanetta. The homely feel in this charming property, set near Lake Maggiore, will put you instantly at ease. The rooms are quaint and personalised while the restaurant is undoubtedly excellent.

  • Foodies - Foodies will be bowled-over by renowned chef Gianluca Zanetta's contemporary take on regional dishes
  • Country Escape - Charming, quiet, picturesque and producing superb cuisine; a rural idyll
  • Great walks - Head out straight from the property and enjoy the beautiful countryside
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $116 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Cannero

Hotel Cannero

Lake Maggiore

Charming old-fashioned establishment run by the same attentive and gracious family for decades. Spectacular position on Lake Maggiore with beautiful views. Spotless bedrooms, piano bar, lakeside terrace, pool and tennis court. Buffet breakfasts are a speciality. The perfect place to unwind.

  • Foodies - Exquisite lakeside terrace for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  • Views - Magnifcent views overlooking Lake Maggiore.
  • Lakeside
  • Great walks
from $126 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Albergo Belvedere

Albergo Belvedere

Lake Maggiore (Ranco)

A quaint little restaurant with rooms in a stunning location with views of Lake Maggiore. The simple and stylish rooms offer a laid back atmosphere. The renowned restaurant serves local food and boasts a terrace with panoramic views. A charming base for local explorers or more active types.

  • Romantic Break - Special private candlelight dinners under the stars can be arranged on request.
  • Families - Great for families, extra cots for children below 3 years can be provided.
  • Views - Right by the Lake Maggiore with all rooms offering wonderful views.
  • Fishing - A perfect base for anglers the hotel has their own fishing boats and can take you out for the day
from $135 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Park Hotel Italia

Park Hotel Italia

Lake Maggiore (Cannero Riviera)

An imposing lakeside property with spectacular views. Elegant interiors with high ceilings and sash windows. Light and airy rooms are traditional in design and boast private balconies. A traditional Italian and Mediterranean restaurant with panoramic views. Very reasonably priced. A tranquil abode.

  • Hideaway - An elegant lakeside property. Gloriously tranquil and with plenty of outdoor activities to rejuvinate oneself.
  • Value chic - Incredible value, especially for this location
  • Great walks - Meander along one of the lakeside trails and soak in the stunning scenery.
  • Sailing - A private pier is available for those arriving by boat.
from $137 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Locanda de Mai Intees

Locanda de Mai Intees

Lake Maggiore

A charmingly traditional private residence with an excellent gourmet restaurant. Rooms and suites have frescoed walls, mezzanine levels, wooden beams, parquet floors, and attractive fabrics. Plenty of activities, close to Lake Maggiore. Romantic, gourmet and family friendly.

  • Foodies
  • Sights nearby - In the centre of the Italian Lake district.
  • Restaurant
  • Great walks
from $158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Verbano

Hotel Verbano

Lake Maggiore (Isola dei Pescatori)

Special restaurant with rooms set on an island of Lake Maggiore. Excellent local cuisine from romantic terraces overlooking the lake. Lovely bedrooms and living areas in creams, with brick fireplace, wooden beams, white washed walls, and private balconies. Ideal for a romantic break or a wedding.

  • Views - All the rooms have stunning views over Lake Maggiore
  • Foodies
  • Honeymoons
  • Romantic Break
from $158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Giardino Lago

Giardino Lago

Locarno (Minusio)

This hotel marries amazing views of the stunning Lago Maggiore with a stylish boutique feel that offers simple but attractive design features. Upon the lake, guests are encouraged towards a number of watersports, including fishing. The restaurant offers fine cuisine, and bicycles are free to hire.

  • Lakeside - RIght by Lago Maggiore
  • Bath robes
  • Country Escape
  • Restaurant
from $207 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Casa Ambica

Casa Ambica

Gordevio

A 19th century house painstakingly renovated providing comfortable accommodation. Rooms feature chestnut wood furniture, art on the walls and bathtubs in all bathrooms. A cozy lounge area with a fireplace and a lovely garden outdoors. Fresh homemade breakfast is served every morning.

  • Romantic Break - The attic room provides enough privacy and amazing views from its balcony. Good for couples
  • Back to Nature - In a peaceful setting, this property offers wonderful mountain views of the Maggia Valley
  • Great walks - Excellent scenic hikes through the mountains surrounding the property. Finish with a dip in the river close by
  • Sights nearby - Must visit the church in Mogno
from $173 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Il Sole di Ranco

Il Sole di Ranco

Lake Maggiore

Lovely lakeside hotel and gourmet restaurant. Romantic views over Maggiore, elegant understated bedrooms and suites, pool, excellent food served on the terrace, lots of fresh fish from the lake. A gourmet choice for families and total relaxation.

  • Foodies
  • Views
  • Swimming Pool - Oudoor pool
  • Tennis Court
from $189 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Art Hotel Riposo

Art Hotel Riposo

Lake Maggiore

An artfully designed hotel on the edge of the pretty town of Ascona. Brightly colored rooms are hip and fresh and most boast private balconies and lake views. A choice of two restaurants both with outdoor dining. Live music held on some evenings. A trendy choice in a great location for exploring.

  • Local exploring - A charming property well located by the lake in order to explore Ascona and the surrounding area.
  • Sights nearby - Take a stroll through the pretty historic centre of Locarno.
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool.
  • Lakeside
from $284 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Isole di Brissago

Hotel Isole di Brissago

Brissago

Hotel in grand 20th century house located on an island in Lake Maggiore. Gorgeous rooms have vintage style wallpaper, lakeside views and big bathrooms. Original floors and stucco ceilings with chandeliers, outstanding views, verandahs and popular restaurant. A unique and memorable stay.

  • Hideaway - Staying in the 20th century building feels like having the whole island to yourself, with delightful botanic gardens to explore
  • Sights nearby - Regular ferry services provide connections to the lakeside villages of Lake Maggiore, including Locarno, Porto Ronco and Ascona
  • Great walks - Walk round the peaceful island; hotel can prepare packed lunches
  • Lakeside
from $287 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Eden Roc

Eden Roc

Ascona

Luxury abounds at the heavenly Eden Roc on Lake Maggiore. Some of the highlights include a superb spa, a choice of four excellent restaurants and a plethora of water-sports facilities on site. Perfect for those looking for a lavish holiday by a lake.

  • Sights nearby - Visit the incredible nearby sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso in Orselina, a 15th century pilgrimage site.
  • Lakeside
  • Restaurant
  • Swimming Pool
from $230 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées

Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées

Lake Maggiore

Luxurious lakeside opulence in a Five Star Grand hotel. A beautiful setting, sumptuous rooms and suites, delicious food, spa and plenty to do on the lake. A romantic spot, family friendly too.

  • Spa breaks
  • Views
  • Romantic Break
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor and Outdoor Pools
from $263 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Giardino Ascona

Giardino Ascona

Ascona

A five star property situated on the stunning Lake Maggiore. Set in Mediterranean gardens reflective of its location on the Swiss Italian border. Contemporary light airy rooms the best of which have french doors leading straight on to the garden. A Two Star Michelin restaurant. Complete luxury.

  • Active Holiday - Sat on a stunning lake and with golf, sailing and mountain biking all on offer.
  • Foodies - Ecco Ascona has been awarded two Michelin stars.
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor and outdoor pools.
  • Spa
from $329 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Villa e Palazzo Aminta

Villa e Palazzo Aminta

Stresa (Lake Maggiore)

A striking Belle Epoque mansion lending fabulous views across Lake Maggiore. Rooms and expansive suites are in keeping with the building's origins. Think rich hues, heavy fabrics, chandeliers, and antiques. With two gourmet restaurants and a luxe spa - this is a spoiling getaway.

  • Total relaxation - Unwind in the wellness area which features a Turkish bath, a hot tub, and a variety of massages and beauty treatments
  • Local exploring - Take a 15-minute boat ride across to the Sanctuary of Santa Caterina del Sasso and explore this impressive monastery
  • Historic - Set in a Belle Époque mansion from the early 20th century with striking original features seen at every turn
  • Watersports - During the summer months, water-skiing, parasailing and watercraft can all be accessed from the nearby beach
from $383 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Castello del Sole

Castello del Sole

Ascona

A luxury hotel situated on the lakeshore of Lake Locarno. Framed by mountains and sitting in gardens full of fruit trees. Spoiling rooms mixing traditional furniture in a contemporary setting. The bathrooms are large and very modern. A glorious spa for complete relaxation. A spoiling stay.

  • Country Escape - With mountains as a backdrop and vineyards surrounding this is an idyllic spot to unwind in some country air.
  • Families - Numerous activities to keep all entertained plus a playground and babysitting services for children.
  • Sailing - Use the hotel boat and spend the day cruising on Lake Maggiore stopping off at market places and castles along the way.
  • Tennis Court - Tennis courts on site.
from $401 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Villa Orselina

Villa Orselina

Locarno

Villa Orselina is a blissful hotel overlooking Lake Maggiore and the Alps. The deluxe white on white rooms, feature floor to ceiling windows and lavish bathrooms. With an extensive spa and three restaurants you will be well taken care of. Perfect for a romantic break by the lake.

  • Hideaway - A perfect escape- pamper yourself at the spa, feast at one of the excellent restaurants and admire the views of the lake.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the 15th century sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso in Orselina, less than five minutes walk from the hotel.
  • Lakeside
  • Restaurant
from $431 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia