Holidays in the Italian lakes take you to a region of elegant charm and natural beauty, where historic lakeside villages lie below epic mountain scenery. Travellers have been coming here for decades in search of romance and outdoor adventures, to visit the area’s baroque palaces, explore winding mountain trails and soak up the chic but laid back ambience.
The Italian lakes reach from the River Po in the south to the lower Alps and the Dolomites at their northern end, and each stretch of water has its own distinct character.
Lake Maggiore straddles the border of Italy and Switzerland. The spectacular water is home to five islands and 42 towns, and is scattered with palatial villas.
Lake Orta is the smallest of the lakes, and has retained its authentic character by largely staying off the tourist map.
Lake Como has famous residents and film star looks.
Lake Garda’s shores gradually change from gently sloping vineyards to the rocky mountain cliffs of the Dolomites. This dramatic backdrop offers some truly imposing scenery, with steep soaring peaks and razor sharp ridges. The unusual nature of the rock means the mountains seem to glow under certain conditions, especially at sunrise and sunset. Shades of pink and orange only serve to enhance the natural beauty of the grandiose surroundings.
Explore the Italian lakes with Citalia
At Citalia we have 95 years’ experience in helping people find their personal slice of Italian paradise, so you can savour your Italian lakes holiday and experience the area like a local. Whether that involves discovering a fine local restaurant, jet skiing around a lake, or just chilling out by the shore with a glass of the local tipple – it’s all down to you.
One great introduction for walkers is Lake Como’s Greenway Trail, an easy to follow 11km route along the less visited western shore of the lake. You’ll pass through a series of quaint old villages, one after the other, all offering unique little cafés and bars with views across the water.
Away from the famous lakes of Como,
Maggiore and Garda, Lake Orta is smaller and less developed – but no less photogenic. The little island of Isola San Giulio, with its church and monastery buildings, is as picture postcard perfect as anywhere in Italy. And at the top of the lake, the town of Omegna is home to a delightful little harbour and a cluster of narrow cobbled streets, where you’ll find a handful of authentic restaurants.
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