Beautiful Lake Maggiore also called Verbano, is one of Italy’s most charming lakes, and despite its name is not the first but the second largest of the Italian lakes after Lake Garda.
This, doesn’t mean that its a small lake; try to immagine a perimeter of about 170 km and more that 64 km long, not that small right!!!
Choosing the best place to stay on Lake Maggiore for a romantic weekend or a break from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city of Milan, may not be very easy.
The shores of the lake are divided between two Italian regions, Lombardy and Piedmont, as well as Switzerland to the north.
The first thing to do, before deciding on the location, is to figure out what you want to see and do during your stay.
Let me see if I can help you choose the best place to stay in Lake Maggiore according to your needs and plans.
If you are in a hurry these are a few of the best hotels you can find on Lake Maggiore:
- Stresa : Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees, Hotel La Palma, Hotel Villa e Palazzo Aminta
- Cannobio : Hotel Pironi
- Baveno : Grand Hotel Dino
Where to stay on Lake Maggiore
Which shore should you choose
Due to the size of the lake, the territories and landscapes vary depending on the area.
They range from alpine landscapes in the northern part, to locations with Mediterranean-type vegetation in the south.
There is really a lot to see and do on Lake Maggiore, each shore has particular places to visit or activities that should not be missed.
As you will see on the herewith map, I have divided it in various locations according to their region:
- green : Switzerland
- red : Piedmont
- blue : Lombardy
Piedmont is most probably the best known area, in this region you have beautiful places as Stresa, Arona and Baveno perfect if you intend to visit the Borromean Islands.
The Lombardy shore, is ideal for a relaxing vacation on the lake in summer, you will find interesting attractions as Rocca d’Angera and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso.
The Swiss shore, to the north has a mountain landscape, which is perfect for a vacation in the green and a great destination for cyclists and hikkers.
Piedmont shore
The Piedmont Shore is the most popular and lots to do for everybody.
Staying on this shore you will easily be able to reach the Borromean Islands, which are the main attraction of the whole lake.
Arona
Arona is located on the southernmost Piedmont shore, its historic center is very well maintained, and from the lakefront you will be able to enjoy the spectacular view of the Rocca di Angera, which is on the Lombard shore.
There is a large green area in the town: the Borromeo Park. This park is fantastic if you want to spend a few hours outdoors with your children as they will see several animals in semi-freedom.
Arona is perfect to explore both the Piedmont than the Lombard Shore.
Hotel Concorde: this 4* hotel has a wonderful location just a short walk to the waterfront area with restaurants/cafes. Breakfast is buffet style and the restaurant offers Italian Cuisine and panoramic lake views.
Hotel Ristorante San Carlo: this 3* hotel features a panoramic restaurant with a spectacular view overlooking Lake Maggiore.
The hotel has air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi throughout the hotel and a garden.
Stresa
Overlooking the Borromean Gulf, Stresa is without any doubt the most elegant of the Lake Maggiore locations.
Villas, elegant stately homes, large luxury hotels and manicured gardens make of this town a real gem.
In Stresa you can stroll through the small historic center and stop for a coffee in Piazza Cadorna, the main meeting place for the inhabitants, or you can let yourself be charmed by the Art Nouveau villas while you stroll along the waterfront, sunset is a must as the location becomes even more romantic.
If you are traveling with your family a good idea is to go to the nearby Pallavicino Park where you will be able to see about 50 species of mammals and birds in a natural setting.
Not far from Stresa, is the Alpinia Botanical Garden, with its 40,000 square meters and about 100 species of plants coming from all around the world.
Stresa is the perfect place to reach the magnificent Borromean Islands as the ferries leave from Piazzale Marconi.
Staying in Stresa is a very good choice if you intend to explore the beautiful attractions on both the Piedmont and Lombard shores.
Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromées: this 5* star hotel is located right on the central Corso Umberto I° promenade on the shore of Lake Maggiore in Stresa, across from the Borromean Islands. This impressive property in Art Nouveau style includes indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a SPA.
Hotel La Palma: this 4* hotels has picturesque views over Lake Maggiore in Stresa city center. Located directly on the waterfront, it is surrounded by a garden and provides free parking. The hotel features a swimming pool right by the lake, and a panoramic terrace with Sky bar and a large hot tub.
Vespucci Boutique: this 3* guesthouse provides accommodations with a terrace and free WiFi throughout the property. Very well located, with shops/restaurants/markets close by. Plenty of interesting attractions, the Alps, historic sites and sports activities within easy reach.
Baveno
Baveno is not very far from Stresa and is much more quieter than the last, and however very convenient to explore the main attractions in the area, including the Borromean Islands. From the lakeside, you can take ferries that will bring you to the islands.
Accommodation for all budgets can be found here: from luxury hotels to cheaper B&B.
If you go to Baveno, you must absolutely see the sumptuous villas which render this locality famous: Villa Fedora, Villa Henfrey-Branca, Villa Durazzo and Villa Barberis are some of the most beautiful.
Grand Hotel Dino : this 4* hotels is located on Baveno’s lakeshore, and offers panoramic views across Lake Maggiore. This large and elegant hotel features both indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a wellness center. Rooms are air conditioned and have classic furniture, a mini-bar and satellite TV. The Dino has a number of restaurants and bars, some of which overlook the lake. Surrounded by gardens, it is next to an interesting art gallery and the jetty for boat trips across the lake.
Hotel Serenella : this 3* comfortable hotel is family-run and located in the certer of Feriolo, 200 mt from Lake Maggiore. The property offers free Wi-Fi, room are confortable and modernly furnished and equipped with air conditioning and private bathroom. Buffet breakfast is varied and the restaurant serves local specialities and classic Italian cuisine. The property is close to Stresa, Verbania and the Swiss border.
Verbania
Verbania is the largest town on Lake Maggiore, you will find all the amenities you will need for a peaceful holiday: supermarkets, post office, restaurants and a large number of accomodations.
This town is often referred to as “the Garden of Lake Maggiore” this because of all the parks, gardens, public and private green spaces. While staying in Verbania you must absolutely visit the botanical garden of Villa Taranto home of more than 20,000 plant varieties.
Verbania, as Stresa, is an elegant and pleasant destination where time seems to have stopped at that of the Belle Epoque.
In Verbania you will find many hotels and tourist accommodations, but as Stresa, prices are a bit higher and, especially during the high season, I would suggest you book early.
Hotel Ancora : this intimate and modern 4* hotel is located by the shore of Lake Maggiore, at walking distance to the ferry, botanical garden and restaurants. Rooms are modern and comfortable with nice views on the lake.
Grand Hotel Majestic : this 4* hotel combines beautiful views, old style charm and excellent comfort. The location is amazing, the garden has a direct access to the lake, nice pool and excellent wellness center.
Cannero Riviera
is located on the Piedmont shore of Lake Maggiore not very far from the Swiss border.
Should you want to visit Locarno this is an excellent place to stay, being on Italian soil it is definitely cheaper than Switzerland.
Even if Cannero is a small town, you will find must-see attractions such as the beautiful Parco degli Agrumi as well as the Ethnogaphic and Brush Musuem which is very particular.
Park Hotel Italia : this 4* hotel is just opposite the shores of Lake Maggiore, it offers an outdoor pool and fully furnished garden with sun loungers. Rooms have lateral views of the mountains or lake. Sweet and savory buffet breakfast is served in the dining room or on the furnished terrace.
B&B Casa Forster : if you are on a budget this B&B, located 450 mt from Lake Maggiore is perfect. Rooms are super comfy and well appointed, breakfast is served either in the garden or the breakfast room.
Other hotels in Cannero Riviera
Cannobio
Cannobio is located just 10 minutes from the Swiss border, and much more quiet than the nearby Verbania and Stresa. It’s lakefront promenade which leads to Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele II is perfect for an after dinner romantic walk enjoying the scenery.
If you choose to stay in Cannobio for your summer holiday, make sure to take a hike to the incredible Orrido di Sant’Anna, a deep gorge immersed in woodland 3 km from the town. Cannobio is also very famous for its beaches and has been awarded the Blue Flag several times.
Hotel Casa Arizzoli : this family-managed 3* hotel is located 200 mt from Lake Maggiore and a few steps from the center of the medieval hamlet of Cannobio. Rooms are spacious and well equipped with attention to detail, buffet breakfast is served in the breakfast room. There is also a Coffee & Wine Bar with wine tasting on site.
Del Lago : this hotel is nestled in the mountains, directly on the Piedmont shores of Lake Maggiore, Del Lago offers panoramic views and is surrounded by a flowered park. All the rooms and apartments are air-conditioned and have views on the lake or mountains. Buffet breakfast during summer is served on the lake-view terrace, while in other seasons it is served in the breakfast room. The center of Cannobio is just a short drive away.
Lombard Shore
I will now take you to the Lombard Shore, where I will suggest you places to stay in 5 different locations on the Lake Maggiore.
Sesto-Calende
Sesto-calende is a small Lombard city near the Piedmont border and one of the cheapest places in the Lake Maggiore area. In this area you will find hotels, B&B as well as campsites where you can stay with your tent or camper.
If you are looking for outdoor activities you will be spoiled for choice: you can explore the Lombard Park of the Ticino Valley where you can enjoy a picnic or reach by bicycle the nearby village of Angera and its famous Rocca. The natural beauties of this area are incredible: you will see lakes,rivers, hills, mountains and all this with a beautiful background as Mount Rosa.
Hotel Sole : this budget hotels offers comfy family rooms, free WI-FI in all the common areas. Continental or à la carte breakfast is available.
B&B Coco Loco : nice B&B with comfy rooms with private bathrooms, garden and free WI-FI, Italian style breakfast is served.
Angera
Angera is most probably one of the most charming lakeside villages on Lake Maggiore, in the back of which stands the majestic Rocca Borromeo.
The Rocca Borromeo of Angera is an ancient fortification which belongs to the Borromeo family and is one of the main points of interest in Angera. Here you will be able to visit the Doll Museum, hosting a collection of more that one thousand pieces. Another wing of the castle hosts the Museum of the childrenswear where you will be able to admire garments collected between the nineteenth and twentieth century.
Angera has a lovely lakefront promenade where you can have pleasant walks, and if you like outdoor activies then the green area of the San Quirico hill is perfect for you. If you like birdwatching then the Bruschera Oasis is the ideal destination for you, you will be able to see the white and red herons, coots, grebes, moorhens and many other resident aquatic birds as well as migratory species.
Hotel Dei Tigli : this 3* budget hotel has simple and very clean rooms, WI-FI and bicycles are available free of charge to explore the surroundings, buffet breakfast is served in the dining room.
Cascina Canée : this B&B with its relaxing atmosphere provides accommodations with free WI-FI, air conditioning, private bathroom with hairdryer and free toiletries. Italian breakfast is also available.
Laveno
Laveno is located accross the lake and right in front of Verbania, one of the interesting reasons to stay in Laveno is the convenient ferry that connects the town to the Piedmont shore.
Laveno’s Old Town is very lively and its heart is Piazza Ranzoni where you can find many cafes and restaurants.
A must do is a visit at the International Museum of Ceramic Design, which is housed in the 16th century Palazzo Perabò, founded in 1971 and where you can see an extensive collection of ceramic art.
Hotel de Charme Laveno : this 4* hotel with beautiful views on Lake Maggiore, has a rooftop infinity heated outdoor pool, spa and wellness center. Rooms are nice and comfy with Satellite TV, air conditioning, hairdryer and free toiletries.
La Dama del Porto : located on the beachfront of Laveno-Mombello has been recently rebuilt, with excellent taste in its architectural features. Rooms are spacious and certain have a balcony and lake view, please take note that there is no TV in rooms.
Other hotels and accomodations in Laveno
Luino
Luino is a lovely town, located just a few kilometers from the Swiss border, because of its location it is perfect to explore both the Lombard and Swiss shores.
Luino has a charming lakefront, which has been expanded and renovated a few years ago, whith green flower beds of grassy lawn, fountains and a playground for children.
One of the main attractions is the famous Wednesday Market, internationally know and pride of the town. Being a popular tourist destination in summer, there is no shortage of luxurious hotels and summer residences.
Camin Hotel Luino : this 4* hotel is housed in a beautiful old villa built in 1898 as a private residence of the Hussy family. Rooms at Camin Hotel Luino have a classic-style furnishings, with satellite TV and fully equipped private bathroom. Some of the rooms feature a extra large double bed others have a lounge and private terrace. Surrounded by a garden, where during summer tables and umbrellas are set up for dinner and breakfast.
Relais Villa Porta : this 4* hotel nestled within a stunning park on the sun-drenched gulf of Colmegna, this 18th century villa features a private beach and lovely views on Lake Maggiore. Rooms are comfy and elegantly appointed, with coffee machine, minibar, WiFi and free toiletries.
Swiss Shore
The Swiss Shore of Lake Maggiore has two beautiful locations that I would like to suggest for your stay.
Locarno
Locarno is located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore it is a real gem and most probably the most expensive location of southern Switzerland. Rich in history and natural beauty, because of its warm climate lemon and palm trees blossom. Locarno’s Old Town has beautiful squares and churches, luxury hotels and parks a perfect mix of history and leisure.
Locarno is famous for hosting events and festivals all year round as the Locarno International Film Festival which takes place every year in August. This makes of Locarno a lively and perfect destination even for the youngests.
Piazza Grande is the heart of the city, and as by its name “grande” is really huge, lined with arcades, shops, restaurants and pastel-colored facades. The Old Town is really worth a visit.
Locarno is a good base if you want to explore Verzasca and Maggia valleys, near Ascona and Brissago Islands which are also beautiful places to visit.
Villa Orselina – Small Luxury Hotel: this 5* small luxury hotel is simply stunning with a privileged location right above Locarno. Views over the lake can be enjoyed from all of the bright and spacious rooms and suites, as well as from its outdoor pool.
Giardino Ascona : at just 2 km from Locarno you will be amazed by this beautiful 5* hotel. Surrounded by a Mediterranean garden, offers 2 award-winning restaurants, a SPA, indoor and outdoor pools. Free WIFI and a 18-hole golf course just steps away.
Ascona
Know as The Pearl of Lake Maggiore is perfect for a romantic weekend.
Its lakeside promenade has always been a source of inspiration for artists, its elegant Old Town has brightly coloured houses, small shops and boutiques, a small harbor where boats follow the rhythm of the lake, all this makes it difficult to not love Ascona.
You must absolutely stroll along the car-free lakefront promenade, where you will find hotels and restaurants where during summer you can have al fresco dining.
Giardino Ascona: you will be amazed by this beautiful 5* hotel. Surrounded by a Mediterranean garden, offers 2 award-winning restaurants, a SPA, indoor and outdoor pools. Free WIFI and a 18-hole golf course just steps away.
