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airports near italian lakes
Natural beauty, elegant architecture, relaxing boat trips and energetic watersports – this fabulous region has it all, says Matthew Teller
- Friday 30 June 2006 23:00 BST
The Independent Travel
WHICH LAKES ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?
There are plenty of lakes all over Italy, but here the phrase refers specifically to an area in the north, where a string of narrow glacial lakes lies interspersed between the Prealpine foothills, straddling the border with Switzerland.
The four most important lakes are, from west to east, Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, Lake Como and Lake Garda. Between and around these are several minor lakes – such as Lake Orta, west of Maggiore, and Lake Iseo, midway between Como and Garda – as well as countless Alpine tarns trapped in the high valleys. The region offers classic images of Italy: balconies over blue water, sleepy cobblestone villages and stone cottages, secluded gardens and exotic flora.
SHOW ME SOMEWHERE REALLY GRAND
Bellagio, on Lake Como, has been called the most beautiful town in Italy. It’s not hard to see why. There is a promenade planted with oleanders and lime trees, fin-de-siècle hotels painted shades of butterscotch, peach and cream, a spectacular mid-lake location facing west and a heart of stepped, cobbled alleyways, all of which make Bellagio the quintessential Italian Lakes destination.
Stresa is the grande dame of Lake Maggiore’s resorts, a graceful little town that came to life in 1906 with the opening of the Simplon rail tunnel. It quickly became a favoured holiday retreat for Europe’s nobility; Hemingway was a regular visitor and the Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées (00 39 0323 938 938; http://www.borromees.it) features in A Farewell to Arms. It remains as stuffy as ever, with doubles from €450/£309, including breakfast.
At the southern end of Lake Garda, within the chic little spa resort of Sirmione, you find Villa Cortine (00 39 030 990 5890; http://www.hotelvillacortine.com), built in 1870 and now an exclusive holiday retreat spread over a beautiful waterfront park. Its interiors are lavish to the point of bombast, with frescoes, marble and gilding everywhere, dovetailing perfectly with the atmosphere of monied seclusion. Doubles start at €560/£384, including half-board.
The lakes host many other grand palace hotels, from the celebrated Villa d’Este on Lake Como (00 39 031 3491; http://www.villadeste.it)
A ROMANTIC HIDEAWAY?
Take your pick. Squeezed below steep cliffs on the east shore of Lake Como is Varenna, its idyllic “Lovers’ Walkway” coiling along the shore. The family-run Albergo Milano (00 39 0341 830 298; http://www.varenna.net), freshly modernised this year, is tucked into the narrow alleys higher up – all patterned tile floors and crisp white linens, with doubles for €140/£96 including breakfast. In a similar vein is Gandria on Lake Lugano, a tranquil hamlet of stone-built cottages, with no access by car (only a few boats stop in each day); and Cannobio, a genteel old Lake Maggiore town with an expansive promenade backed by high mountains.
Most beautiful of all is Orta San Giulio, a medieval village hidden away on little Lake Orta, where cobbled lanes wind between tall, pastel-washed houses and peeling palazzi and fishing boats lie pulled up onto the waterfront. Orta’s main square faces the Isola San Giulio, an islet – once a nest of fearsome dragons – adorned with an ancient convent and church. The harmonious ensemble of town, piazza and island is pure theatre, especially captivating under spotlights after dark.
WHAT ABOUT LAKE GARDA?
With all the package tourism to Lake Garda, the best-known destinations – such as Riva, Limone and Malcesine – are crowded. Instead, go for less renowned names. Gargnano is a quiet village of lemon trees and olive groves where, in 1912, DH Lawrence wrote Twilight in Italy. Its Villa Feltrinelli (00 39 0365 798 000; http://www.villafeltrinelli.com) is a country house that has become a luxury boutique hotel (double rooms start at €980/£672, including breakfast).
Equally little-visited is Torri del Benaco, an atmospheric one-street village. Here, the Gardesana (00 39 045 722 5411; http://www.hotel-gardesana.com) overlooks the harbour and castle walls. This is a classic old lakes hotel, first recorded in 1452, which has hosted the likes of Churchill, Stephen Spender and King Juan Carlos I of Spain; in 1954, Laurence Olivier holidayed here with Vivien Leigh. Yet it wears its history lightly, without pomposity. Opt for room 123, the Poet’s Room (€154/£106, including breakfast), where a double balcony offers a panorama across virtually the full length of Lake Garda.
SHOW ME THE LOVELIEST GARDENS
Isola Bella and Isola Madre are twin islands in Lake Maggiore. Isola Bella is occupied by an eye-poppingly ornate baroque palazzo, built for the Borromeo family in the 17th century; its formal, terraced gardens are dotted with fountains, statues and flora ranging from oranges and lemons to camellias and magnolias. Isola Madre features exotics such as carob trees, a colony of parrots and the largest Kashmir cypress in Europe, over 200 years old. You have to pay for admission: a ticket for both islands costs €15/£10.30 ( http://www.borromeoturismo.it); RHS members get in for free.
Lake Como boasts the splendid gardens of Villa Monastero at Varenna (€2/£1.40; http://www.villamonastero.it), while on Lake Garda stands the Vittoriale (€11/£7.50; http://www.vittoriale.it), the former residence of Mussolini’s favourite poet, Gabriele D’Annunzio. The villa’s decor is bizarre, a tribute more to D’Annunzio’s egotism than any concept of good taste, but the gardens, terraced above the glittering lake, are magnificent.
WHAT CAN I SEE ON TWO LEGS – OR TWO WHEELS?
Monte Generoso is the highest peak for miles around, rising to 1,700m between the lakes of Lugano and Como and served by a scenic rack-railway from the Swiss village of Capolago (Sfr38/€25/£17; 00 41 91 630 5111; http://www.montegeneroso.ch). The views are breathtaking, extending as far as the Matterhorn on one side and Milan on the other. Plenty of walks fan out from the summit station, including a full-day trail into the hidden Valle di Muggio.
Above Malcesine on Lake Garda, Monte Baldo – with a cable car to the top (€10/£7; http://www.funiviamalcesine.com) – has long ridge-top walks as well as panoramic mountain-bike trails. Towering 600m above Lake Iseo is Monte Isola ( http://www.monteisola.com), Europe’s largest lake island, with a fine 9km perimeter trail.
ANYTHING FOR ADRENALIN JUNKIES?
Torbole, at the northern end of Lake Garda, is a centre for watersports, with operators including http://www.windsurfconca.com and http://www.pierwindsurf.it running beginners’ windsurf sessions for around €60/£41. Nearby are canyoning (€45/£31 for a half day; http://www.wetway.it) and tandem paragliding off Monte Baldo (€70/£48; http://www.condorfly.com).
SOME URBAN LIFE?
Como’s atmospheric medieval quarter is centred on the Duomo, renowned for its elegant melding of gothic and renaissance styles. Just to the north is Lugano, the largest city in Italian-speaking Switzerland, a sassy place with some great shopping. Its arcaded Via Nassa, in the old centre, is lined with designer fashion and jewellery stores, while labyrinthine lanes behind Piazza della Riforma hide the Gabbani delicatessen, an Aladdin’s cave of fine salsicce and Alpine cheeses. Lugano’s annual three-day open-air jazz festival ( http://www.estivaljazz.ch; free) culminates next Saturday, 8 July, with a show by the legendary funk artist George Clinton and his 21-piece band.
If that sounds a little frenetic, head to nearby Varese, just across the border in Italy. You’ll find the superb Villa Panza gallery, housing a permanent exhibit of contemporary art focused on American painters of the 1980s and 90s, with many pieces from New York’s Guggenheim Collection, including site-specific light installations by Dan Flavin (€8/£5.50; http://www.fondoambiente.it).
HOW DO I GET THERE.
Six airports serve the lakes, of which the most convenient for the western lakes is Milan Malpensa – just 15km from Lake Maggiore, and handy for Orta and Como too; it has flights on Alitalia (08705 448 259; http://www.alitalia.co.uk) from Heathrow and Manchester, easyJet (0905 821 0905; http://www.easyjet.com) from Gatwick and British Airways (0870 850 9 850; http://www.ba.com) from Heathrow, London City, Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester. Milan Linate, a short drive from Como, is served by BA and Alitalia from Heathrow and easyJet from Gatwick.
Bergamo’s Orio al Serio airport – Milan’s third airport – is a gateway for both Como and Garda; Ryanair (0871 246 0000; http://www.ryanair.com) flies there from Luton, Stansted, Liverpool, Newcastle and Prestwick, as does Jet2 (0871 226 1737; http://www.jet2.com) from Leeds-Bradford. Airports within easy reach of Lake Garda include Brescia, served by Ryanair from Stansted, and Verona, served by BA from Gatwick. Lugano is reached on Swiss (0845 601 0956; http://www.swiss.com/uk) via Zurich from Heathrow, London City, Birmingham and Manchester, or on Darwin (00 800 1771 7777; http://www.darwinairline.com) from London City.
All six airports are well connected by public transport. From Malpensa, the “Malpensa Express” train departs frequently for Milan; it stops midway at Saronno, where you can change for the lines heading north to Como, Varese and Lake Maggiore. Buses also run directly from Malpensa to Stresa, Como, Lugano and other destinations.
From Linate or Bergamo airports, take the express coach to Milan’s Stazione Centrale, from where trains run to Stresa and other Lake Maggiore towns, Como and Varenna on Lake Como, Lugano and the southern shores of Lake Garda.
From Brescia and Verona airports, buses shuttle to Verona’s Porta Nuova station, from where Lake Garda is a short train ride away. A minibus meets arrivals at Lugano airport, dropping off anywhere you like in the city centre; trains run regularly between Lugano and Como.
Timetables for trains, buses and boats in this region of Italy are searchable at http://www.trasporti.regione.lombardia.it. All Swiss public transport timetables are online at http://www.rail.ch.
There are some great deals to be had on rental cars. “Sixti” ( http://www.sixti.com), the low-cost arm of Sixt car rental, based at Malpensa, Linate and Bergamo airports, rents small cars – such as Smart or Fiat Panda – for as little as €8/£5.50 a day, even in July and August. That price includes 100 free kilometres and a loss damage waiver with a high excess (€800/£550). By comparison, Maggiore ( http://www.maggiore.it), a big Italian agency, is charging €69/£47 to rent a slightly larger Fiat Punto with unlimited mileage from Malpensa, Linate, Bergamo or Verona airports for any weekend (Fri 2pm-Mon 10am) in July or August.
As much as possible, though, you should go by boat: the lakeside roads are often jammed solid with traffic during the summer peak. Ferries, catamarans and hydrofoils operate reliably to regular timetables, which are published online: for lakes Garda, Como and Maggiore, see http://www.navigazionelaghi.it; for Lake Lugano, see http://www.lakelugano.ch. You could also opt for a cruise, to see the best of the scenery in a day, or a romantic dinner for two on board.
The “Lago Maggiore Express” (€28/£19; http://www.lagomaggioreexpress.com) comprises a memorable three-stage journey by train and boat around the lake and through the mountains, starting in Stresa and taking in a spectacular ride on the narrow-gauge Centovalli line between Locarno (in Switzerland) and Domodossola.
WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE?
Italian Tourist Board (020-7408 1254; http://www.italiantouristboard.co.uk). Switzerland Tourism (free- phone 00800 100 200 30; http://www.MySwitzerland.com).
Matthew Teller is co-author of the Rough Guide to the Italian Lakes (£12.99).
The ultimate guide to the Italian Lakes
T he Romans were first to see the potential of the Italian lakes as a holiday destination. They built their sumptuous villas in some of the prime positions around Como and Garda, where the southern foothills of the Alps sweep down towards the Mediterranean and the fertile plains of northern Italy, forming some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
Modern tourism has transformed the towns, but the lakes, mountains and views are as beautiful as they were 2,000 years ago, and the villages, Baroque gardens and lakeside hotels are still wonderful places to enjoy a holiday, especially during the long, warm autumn.
Spread out over four of Italy’s northern regions – Piedmont, Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige – the lakes extend north of Milan and stretch to Verona, varying enormously in size and setting. The westernmost, Lake Orta, is a gorgeous little slice of deep-blue water harbouring one of the country’s prettiest medieval villages, Orta San Giulio. A short drive away is the longest, Lake Maggiore, which extends north across the Swiss border. East lies modish Lake Como, lined with opulent villas and glitzy hotels. Farther east still is Lake Iseo, the least well-known of the five, while the largest of all, Lake Garda, is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations.
So how do you choose the right one for you? Those after a little romantic corner may favour Lake Orta or Lake Como. Outdoorsy types should head to the northern shores of Lake Garda for canyoning and kite surfing, while Lake Iseo is ideal for hikers and cyclists. Nature and culture lovers in search of a quiet break will find a solution on Lake Maggiore’s peaceful shores. Size might also determine the length of your stay. Little Orta and Iseo work well as short-break destinations, while Como, Maggiore and Garda require longer stays to explore.
There are other aspects to consider, too. Here is our guide to
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the five key lakes along with our recommended hotels to suit both higher and lower budgets – rates quoted are per room per night and vary according to date and demand. Follow the links given for full reviews on our website.
The most exclusive of the lakes, this is a trendy destination with luxurious hotels and modish restaurants lining the shores, and a generous sprinkling of celebrity visitors, including Madonna, George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.
The elegant town of Como on the lake’s southern shore comprises a walled old quarter with pretty narrow lanes lined with boutiques, open-air cafés and restaurants. From here steamers head north from one wooded mountain slope to another, passing one of Lake Como’s most attractive houses, the 18th-century Villa del Balbianello, the setting for the remake of Casino Royale. Farther north is Villa Carlotta, a pink and white grand house where the main attraction is the spectacular 14-acre garden where camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas tumble towards the waterfront.
The resort of Menaggio has an attractive centre and views across the water to Bellagio and Varenna, picturesque towns that are among the lake’s highlights. Fringed by cypresses, Bellagio sits on the tip of the Como and Lecco branches of the lake, while the romantic town of Varenna comprises a cluster of attractive houses nestled along a rocky shoreline.
About seven miles (12km) north of Menaggio is Dongo, where Benito Mussolini was captured by resistance partisans as he attempted to flee to Switzerland in 1945. The northern shores of Lake Como are largely off the tourist track, and there are excellent hiking opportunities, in particular around the town of Gravedona.
For a treat: Leading designer Patricia Urquiola is the mastermind behind this elegant yet relaxed Il Sereno in the picturesque town of Torno. Interiors are made of local wood, stone and fibres, while floor-to-ceiling windows draw one’s attention to the beautiful panorama outside. The excellent restaurant serves simple dishes with a contemporary touch. From £649.
For value: Hotel Belvedere is set above Bellagio among terraced gardens leading down to the lake. It opened its doors in 1880, and has since been run by five generations of women of the Martinelli family. From £94.
Nearest airports: Lecco is an hour from Bergamo airport; Como town is 45 minutes from Lugano and Milan Malpensa airports. For flight options and fares to this and all other airports listed below, see skyscanner.net.
Lake Garda
The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda’s topography varies dramatically. In the south, it is fringed by rolling hills, while the northern shore is characterised by sheer cliffs with villages clinging on to the rock faces. Located on a long promontory at the bottom of the lake is Sirmione, a pretty spa town surrounded by ancient castle walls that attracts the bulk of the tourists.
The western shore is home to the old Venetian town of Salò, with its pleasant waterfront promenade, while farther north is Gardone Riviera, home to Il Vittoriale degli Italiani, the former house of the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. The tranquil town of Gargnano lies farther north, while pretty Limone sul Garda, the last lakeside town in Lombardy, sits along a narrow road that runs along the side of jagged cliffs. It is famous for its lemon cultivation; the Limonaia del Castèl, a lemon garden and museum, provides an insight.
Situated beneath sheer cliffs on the lake’s northern shore, Riva del Garda has a quiet pedestrianised quarter, while two miles (3km) north is Cascata Grotta Varone, a gorge and waterfall. The northern shore is a major hub for watersports, including windsurfing, sailing, canyoning and ice climbing.
The main attraction of Malcesine on the lake’s eastern shore is the 13th-century Castello Scaligero, where Goethe was briefly imprisoned in 1786. Farther south lies Torri del Benaco, one of the lake’s most beautiful villages, surrounded by remnants of 10th-century walls, while the resort of Bardolino is the home of the red wine.
For a treat: Villa Feltrinelli is a historic villa on the western shore with 21 lavishly restored rooms. It’s expensive, however. From £934.
For value: On a hillside overlooking Lake Garda, Due Di Moro is a laid-back, eco-friendly b&b with its own vegetable garden and orchard supplying the restaurant. From £93.
Nearest airports: Sirmione is about 80 minutes from Bergamo and Verona airports.
Lake Maggiore
Following the opening of the Simplon Tunnel between Italy and Switzerland in the early 20th century, Lake Maggiore became a holiday retreat for European nobility. While the lake’s heyday has long past, it is still a relaxing and peaceful place to unwind for a few days. Palms and oleanders line the lakeside, and verbena and orange blossom grow abundantly.
The main sights, such as the grand resorts of Stresa and Pallanza, are around the Golfo Borromeo, which takes its name from the prominent Borromeo family of bankers. Lined with opulent hotels, Stresa comprises a compact centre with narrow cobbled lanes, while offshore are the picturesque Isole Borromee. A short boat ride from Stresa’s imbarcadero, Isola Bella is the highlight, with its Baroque palazzo and impeccably manicured terraced gardens. The larger Isola Madre houses a smaller, more modest villa and lush gardens, while nearby Isola Superiore, known as Isola dei Pescatori, is an attractive place with alleys and old buildings that once housed fishermen, which are now mostly souvenir shops.
North of Stresa is Pallanza, a quiet little resort with an attractive waterfront whose main attraction is the lush garden of the 19th-century Villa Taranto.
The northern part of Lake Maggiore is wilder and less explored, home to the charming village of Cannero and the town of Cannobio. Across the border into Switzerland is the resort of Ascona, which faces the pretty Isole di Brissago, while at the very top of the lake is the elegant town of Locarno. The eastern shore is much more sedate, but offers excellent mountain hiking opportunities.
For a treat: The Grand Hotel Majestic is a Belle Époque villa on a promontory with wonderful views of the Borromean islands. It has a delightful lakefront garden and a small sandy beach, from where it’s possible to swim in the lake. From £121.
For value: Relais Casali della Cisterna is a family-run hotel on a hillside running down to the lake – it also has beautiful gardens and a private beach. From £104.
Nearest airport: Stresa/Pallanza are an hour from Milan Malpensa; Locarno is less than an hour from Lugano airport in Switzerland.
Much smaller than its neighbours and the least-known of the lakes, Iseo is nevertheless popular with local tourists and day-trippers, who come here for the excellent trekking and mountain biking. Europe’s largest lake island, Monte Isola, is a charming spot with a perimeter promenade that is best explored by bike. Cycling and walking routes criss-cross the interior of the island, and there are lovely views from the 15th-century Santuario della Madonna della Ceriola.
On the south-western shore of the lake is Sarnico, an attractive old town with a number of Art Nouveau villas peppered around the hills. On the south-eastern shore is Iseo, an agreeable town with cobbled streets that makes a pleasant place for a stroll. Most of the lake’s attractions lie on the eastern shore, carpeted with wooded slopes and sprinkled with olive groves.
The ancient trading route of the Via Valeriana, today a popular hiking route, is a 15-mile (24km) stretch that passes through hamlets, vineyards and olive groves, commanding wonderful lake views. Outside the village of Zone lies an impressive landscape of rocky pyramids with granite boulders, the result of centuries of rain erosion of moraine deposits. Stretching north of the lake up to Sonico is the little-visited Val Camonica, home to prehistoric rock carvings that cover a period of 13,000 years. Heading south of the lake, between Iseo and Brescia, is the hilly region of Franciacorta, which produces Italy’s finest sparkling wine.
For a treat: L’Albereta overlooks the vineyards of Franciacorta and Lake Iseo beyond. Converted from a 19th-century mansion it has a state-of-the-art health spa. From £226.
For value: Casa Visnenza is a cosy, welcoming b&b in the town of Cemmo di Capo di Ponte, 20 miles north of Lake Iseo. From £43.
Nearest airports: Sarnico is half an hour from Bergamo airport.
Lake Orta is an azure slither that remains largely off the tourist track, although its romantic views and tranquil, relatively quiet atmosphere attracts its fair share of Milanese and Torinesi who flock here for weekend breaks. It is probably the most beautiful of the lakes, home to the picturesque medieval village of Orta San Giulio, undoubtedly one of the lakes’ most captivating towns, with its winding cobbled streets and pastel-coloured palazzi. The lakefront square of Piazza Motta is dotted with chestnut trees and framed by frescoed buildings.
Lying offshore is Isola San Giulio, a tiny car-free island with only one cobbled lane that runs the perimeter of the island. Home to 60 nuns, the Benedictine Basilica di San Giulio houses frescoes dating back to the 14th century. Above Orta San Giulio, reached on foot from Santa Maria Assunta Church, is Sacro Monte di San Francesco, a forested area sprinkled with 21 chapels built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Each of these has painted terracotta statues that act out scenes from the life of St Francis of Assisi, attracting scores of pilgrims year-round.
The cool air attracts just as many tourists who come to admire the spectacular views of the lake and enjoy a picnic in the pine-scented surrounds.
For a treat: Villa Crespi is a 19th-century villa in the Moorish style, with incredibly ornate décor. It is owned and run by two-Michelin star chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo. Rooms from £411.
For value: La Contrada dei Monti is a three-star hotel which offers welcoming little rooms in a restored 18th-century building in the heart of Orta San Giulio. From £86.
Nearest airport: Orta San Giulio is less than an hour from Milan Malpensa airport.
When to go
The lakes’ season runs from Easter to October. The best times to visit are May to early June and September, when temperatures are warm and the evenings clear and cool. In July and August the lakes are at their most crowded, and the weather can be unbearably hot. Avoid August if possible, when Italians descend on the lakes for their summer holidaysn and prices peak.
Getting around
Passenger boats ply the lakes, with car-ferries crossing Garda, Maggiore and Como. Exploring different lakes by public transport is tricky as buses and trains have erratic timings and journeys often involve changes. Renting a car allows more flexibility, but the lake roads get very busy in summer and queues are common, especially along the shores of Lake Garda and Lake Como.
The Italian Lakes
The most famous lakes in Italy are in the north of the country at the edge of the mountains which climb into the Alps. Lake Garda, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore are very large and long, running north to south. Although they aren’t close together, they have sometimes been grouped together as ‘the Italian Lake District’ – an anglicised description evoking the area’s poetic and literary connections. Beloved of the romantic poets as well as later writers, statesmen and royalty, the northern Italian lakes are beautiful and atmospheric, where mountains descend to meet the lakeshore, and stately grand hotels dominate pretty lakeside towns. For more than a hundred years, these have been popular destinations for English, American, German and other international visitors.
Each is a tourist destination in its own right, and they each offer pretty much the same type of holiday experience. Several firms organise package holidays to the Italian lakes, but as travel connections are quite straightforward, many travellers nowadays prefer to book their own flights and hotels. Independent planning can offer the benefit of saving money by using budget flights or careful hotel selection, as well as offering more choice and flexibility. Milan Bergamo Airport, Brescia and Verona are all good airports for holidays in the lake regions, and the towns on the lakes are all well-connected by trains, buses or ferries.
To many, the famous northern lakes are the ‘Italian Lakes’, but in fact these are not the only attractive expanses of water in the Italian peninsula. Lakes don’t come much more dramatic than Lakes Garda and Como, but further south in rather tamer surroundings the independent traveller will find some placid gems.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda, Italy’s biggest lake, is long and slim with a southern shore of low, rolling hills, and a contrasting northern end which is surrounded by towering mountains. Popular destinations: Desenzano del Garda, Sirmione.
Lake Como is more tranquil and wooded than Lake Garda, although here too, you can head easily for more rugged terrain. The lake is a reminder of bygone holiday elegance, with a steamer cruising between resort towns and stately gardens open to the public.
Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is the second-largest lake in Italy, stretching between Lombardy and Piemonte and reaching into the Alps. The lake gets busy with tourists, particularly in the height of summer, but charming resorts such as Stresa, and the famous gardens of the Borromean Islands, Isola Bella and Isola Madre, make the destination a permanently worthwhile one.
Other Italian lakes
Between Lake Garda and Lake Como is the smaller, less well-known Lake Iseo (Lago d’Iseo). This is a long, narrow lake with one steep inhabited island and a number of interesting and pleasant tourist attractions around its shores.
Further south, and in less alpine surroundings, you will find a selection of Italy’s other lakes.
In green Umbria, Lake Trasimeno is Italy’s fourth-largest lake, a peaceful destination for foreigners who are looking for beautiful landscapes and are finding nearby Tuscany too crowded with their own kind. Trippers can enjoy a picnic and a stroll on the attractive island, Isola Maggiore.
In Lazio, to the north of Rome, the province of Viterbo contains three charming lakes which are popular with Italians and with those foreign tourists who have discovered them. Lake Bracciano is large and circular, with several attractive and historic little lakeside towns. On a steep hill overlooking the water, Bracciano itself is a town with a lovely small, steep historic centre. The imposing castle is open to the public, with fascinating guided tours (available in English) explaining some of the scandalous past goings-on (illicit lovers, secret passageways, mysterious deaths.. the usual). The castle can also be hired for private events such as wedding receptions (it gained worldwide fame in 2006 as the venue for Tom Cruise’s wedding), and the candlelit ramparts at night must be a dream setting.
Lake Bolsena is a circular lake boasting two small islands, located close to Lazio’s border with Umbria. Italy’s largest volcanic lake covers 115 square kilometres, and is encirled by low, vineyard-crowned hills. The best vantage-point is from Montefiascone, a pretty hilltown with an impressive cathedral, famous for producing Est! Est!! Est. wine.
Smallest of the three is Lake Vico, which has nature reserves along its shore, and is another volcanic crater.
Also in Lazio are the attractive lakes of the Castelli Romani, Lake Albano and Lake Nemi, circular former volcanic craters set in wooded hills which have been popular summer resorts from the times of Ancient Rome onwards.
Guides to the Italian Lakes
Lombardy and the Italian Lakes
The Cadogan guides to Italy are always interesting and entertaining. As well as the historical and cultural background, this book contains anecdotal gems and recommendations to enliven your holiday in the Lakes.
Italian Lakes: Insight Compact Guide
A convenient and practical guidebook with information about the Lake areas, and suggested tours.
DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Milan and the Lakes
The Dorling Kindersley travel guides are good for getting a visual overview of the area. Highly glossy and lavishly illustrated, they give you a good idea of what to see in the region. For more indepth practical details and background, you may wish to combine the guide with a more text-heavy book.
How to Travel to the Italian Lakes
Italy’s lake region has lured in travelers since ancient Roman times. (See Reference 2) (Photo: Andy Sotiriou/Photodisc/Getty Images )
Italy has its fair share of lakes up and down the peninsula, but when you talk about visiting the Italian lakes, the discussion turns specifically to Italy’s northern lake region. Encompassing four Italian states, Piedmont, Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige and The Veneto, and two countries — Lake Lugano passes into Switzerland, Italy’s lake region encompasses climates both mountainous and Mediterranean. Whether you opt for one of the four major lakes — Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Lugano or Lake Maggiore — some of the smaller gems in between or a mix of several lakes, an established public transportation system ensures you get in and around the lake region easily.
Choose the lake or lakes you will visit. Lake Como has a reputation as a celebrity hang out, and the lake oozes glamor and the corresponding price tag. Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, draw in scores of tourists with its balmy Mediterranean climate and water sports, though the throngs of tourists can be a turn-off if you are looking for a quiet getaway. Lakes Lugano and Maggiore pass through Switzerland, adding a healthy dose of Swiss architecture, cuisine and culture to the region’s snow-covered mountain peaks and placid lake views. However, Lugano and its surrounding cities are more urban than Maggiore’s untamed woodland shores.
Determine the best arrival airport for your destination. Fly into Milan Malpensa, a major international airport, if you are flying in from overseas or plan to visit Lake Maggiore or the nearby minor lake, Lake Orta. Book a regional or budget carrier into the regional airport nearest the lakes you plan to visit if you are flying in from elsewhere within Europe. Five minor airports serve the Italian lake region. Fly into one of Milan’s other two airports, Milan Linate or Bergamo Orio al Serio, to reach Lake Como, Brescia or Verona to reach Lake Garda and Switzerland’s Lugano airport for Lake Lugano.
Schedule your flight to Italy. Search for travel into Milan Malpensa or Lugano with a major fare aggregator site, such as Kayak, Expedia and Travelocity. Use website specializing in regional European carriers, such as Momondo, to find flights into the minor airports, Milan Linate, Bergamo, Brescia and Verona.
Rent a car at the airport if you prefer to use private transportation throughout your trip or plan to visit remote villages and parts of the lake region. Schedule a bus transfer from Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate or Bergamo to the Milano Centrale train station, from Brescia or Verona airports to Verona Porta Nuova station or from Lugano to the Lugano train station. Book train tickets through Trenitalia, the website of the Italian state railway network, or SBB, the Swiss rail network, from your arrival city to the lake or lakes you plan to visit.
Guide to Italian Lakes
How To Get There
Milan is the most convenient city to fly into for the Italian Lakes. There are two main airports in Milan: Linate, which is 12km east of Milan, and Malpensa, 48km northwest of the capital. For rail connections from Milan visit http://www.fs-on-line.com .
British Airways (0845 773 3377; http://www.britishairways.com) and Alitalia (0870 544 8259; http://www.alitalia.co.uk) fly to Milan.
When To Go
The season in the Italian Lakes runs from a week or so before Easter until the end of October; most hotels and some restaurants are closed for the rest of the year.
nearest airport to Lake Maggiore? – Lake Maggiore Forum
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What Milan airport is nearest to lake Maggiore please Bergamo? Linate? Others? I am flying from Stansted in England
Malpensa is the nearest by a long way.
Thanks for very quick reply! Could you tell me the nearest airports to the Italian lakes? Not just Maggiore but Garda and the others. Also what is the quietest and least touristy lake to visit in June? Any info much appreciated. Thanks
Lake Como – Linate or Malpensa. Lake Garda – Verona or Brescia, then Bergamo
For a quieter but less famous lake try Lake Iseo, nearest airport Bergamo or Brescia
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Which is the closest lake to Venice airport?
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lake garda is the nearest lake to venice, you can get the train from venice to desenzano, and a bus down to the lake, a taxi to the lake is about 5 or 6 euro , from right outside the station, ferries run from there to many places on the lake, On the train it takes maybe one and half hours, Trains are reasonably cheap, and generally clean
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airports near italian lakes
Lake Garda is in a strategic position within easy reach of the principle national and international airports, the nearest being Verona-Villafranca , approximately 15 km, and Brescia-Montichiari, 30 km. Both are situated south of the lake and are connected to the Verona and Brescia railway stations by an airport coach service.
Another important airport is Bergamo-Orio al Serio , about 80 km from the lake.
Personalized transfer services are available to and from all the localities on the lake.
Follow the link to check the airlines and connections between Lake Garda and the main European cities.
Nearest Airport to Lake Garda – is it Verona – Peschiera del Garda Forum
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Hi booking holiday to Bella Italia and was wondering is Verona airport the nearest? Aer Lingus are flying there this summer from Dublin !
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yes verona airport would be your best option from dublin, you should prob be at the campsite within the hour depending on if you use public or private transport. there is a very good public transport system in Italy and is very reasonable. we have had holidays last few years in Bella Italia (which is great!) but we didnt have option of verona. we flew into milan bergamo which was the best option for us and would also recommend this airport if the days or times of flights suit you better.
let me know if i can help with anything else.
Verona’s airport would be very convenient for you – There’s a shuttle from the airport to Verona, and then you could take the train to Peschiera del Garda, or the bus.
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How far is verona airport to bella italia and milan bergemo to bella italia. we are looking to fly from milan bergamo from knock airport but could fly from dublin to verona,what is the best and cheapest means of transport from the airport to bella italia, its our first time going here so would like some advice or tips. thanks
Cheapest from either is public transport. Vagabonda has already given you info for Verona airport.
Similar for Bergamo. There is a shuttle bus from Bergamo Airport to Bergamo train station. Costs €2
You then need 2 trains from Bergamo to Peschiera (1h35 – 1h55 depending on connections) from €7.35 per person single to €14.95 depending on trains (fast intercity or Regional)
HOWEVER – Beware of also economy flying with Mr O'leary. It is a mistake often made and a recurring theme. People book cheap tickets without checking overall transfer. Either the flights arrive too late in Bergamo or depart too early.
The return flights from Bergamo to Knock are so early it is impossible to get there by public transport.
The flights are at 06:55 Wednesday and 07:40 Sunday.
You would require a private transfer.
Somebody like http://www.peschieratransfer.it would normally charge €125 however on a Sunday €143.75
Also would be €143.75 on the wednesday as you would have to leave before 6am which is classed as night tariff.
Verona is far far easier and more convenient.
Airport Transfers to the Italian Lakes
The north of Italy is scattered with picturesque lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the largest being Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. The lakes are surrounded by a combination of luxurious villas, sleepy medieval towns and busy water sport resorts, so there is something for everyone in this beautiful area of northern Italy. The ‘Big Three’ lakes overshadow their smaller and less famous neighbours, meaning that the lakes of Lake Iseo, Lake Orta and Lake Lugano and the like are less touristy and, in the summer months, a great place to escape the thronging crowds. Fill in the form below to obtain an on-line quotation for airport taxi transfers to your Italian Lake resort, or read on to find out more about some of the great resorts within easy access of Northern Italy's airports.
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Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and particularly popular with water sports enthusiasts and families. It’s hard to go wrong when choosing a resort around Lake Garda. The southern end of Lake Garda is quite wide (around 17km at its widest point) and surrounded by rolling hills covered with olive groves and vineyards. The main resort towns at this end of the lake include Garda, Sirmione, Bardoline, Lazise, Peschiera, Densenzano del Garda, Manerba del Garda and Padenghe del Garda. Most of the villages and towns around Lake Garda have historic centres with pretty squares and waterfront promenades lined with cafés. A number of the town centres are closed to traffic making strolls of the ancient streets particularly pleasant. Most of the resorts are linked by ferry and hydrofoil services.
The scenery at the northern end of the lake becomes more dramatic. The lake narrows and the surrounding mountains more… mountainous! The main resort towns at this end of the lake include Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda, Gardone Riviera, Salò, Gargnano, Toscolano-Maderno, Brenzone and Malcesine. Again many of the resorts are linked by ferry and hydrofoil services and from Malcesine you can take a cable car to the top of Monte Baldo, where you will be rewarded with amazing views and some great walking trails. Many of the resorts have beaches ranging from sand, through shingle to the white pebble beach of the northernmost resort of Riva del Garda. Lake bathing and water sports abound throughout the lake and there is plenty to amuse the active tourist on Lake Garda.
Lake Garda is situated about halfway between Venice and Milan. At only 30km from Verona, 100km from Milan and 130km from Venice it is well placed for taxi transfers from a number of airports in northern Italy. By their very geography resorts at the southern end of the lake are easier to get to. Transfers from Verona airport and Verona-Brescia airport take around 30-45 minutes to reach the southernmost shores of the lake and 2 hours to reach the north. Taxi transfers from Bergamo airport take between 1-2 hours and transfers from the other Milan airports (Milan Malpensa airport and Milan Linate airport) take closer to the 2-hour mark. Also worth considering are flights to Venice airport although transfer times will be a little longer.
Being situated just north of Milan, Lake Como is super-chic and is popular with holidaying Milanese, whose clothes can be as beautiful and impressive as the lakeside views. The resorts and hotels around Lake Como generally service the more upmarket tourist, and if you are looking for a secluded romantic retreat this is the lake for you. The main resort towns on Lake Como are Bellagio, Tremezzo, Menaggio, Cernobbio, Varenna and Como itself.
The lake is in the shape of an inverted ‘Y’. Lecco and Como sit at the southern ends of the ‘Y’ and in the crook of the ‘Y’ sits Bellagio, one of the most beautiful and romantic towns in Italy. Lake ferries and hydrofoils cross the lake at regular intervals, enabling you visit a number of towns and villages from one central base.
Being situated so close to Milan, Lake Como is one of the easiest Italian lakes to get to by airport taxi transfer and Lake Como is perfect for a romantic weekend away, as well as longer breaks. All the Milan airports are ideal for holidays to Lake Como although Milan Malpensa is slightly better for resorts on the western shore of Lake Como and Bergamo better for the eastern shore. Taxi transfer times from Milan Malpensa airport take between 45 minutes to Como to 2 hours to the further reaches of the lake. Taxi transfer times from Bergamo airport take between 50 minutes to Lecco to 2 hours to some of the further resorts such as Menaggio. Milan Linate airport is also very suitable with taxi transfer times taking between 1-2 hours.
Lake Maggiore is Italy’s second-largest lake. It is 65km long and straddles the Swiss border. The main resort towns on Lake Maggiore are Stresa, Cannobio, Arona, Verbania, Dormelletto and Baveno. Also worth a visit are the three Borromean Islands – situated in the Borromean Bay between Stresa and Verbania – where you will discover beautiful gardens, quaint fishing villages and a quite ostentatious Baroque palace. The most popular Lake Maggiore resorts are on the western shores of the lake. Like the other lakes, many of Lake Maggiore’s resorts are linked by ferry, and from Stresa (Lake Maggiore’s leading resort) you can catch a cable car up Monte Mottarone, from where there are beautiful views of the lakes and the Alps.
Like Lake Como, Lake Maggiore is easily accessed from all the Milan airports by airport taxi transfer. Milan Malpensa airport is by far the most convenient with taxi transfer times to most resorts taking less than an hour. Taxi transfers from Milan Linate airport and Bergamo airport take slightly longer, taking between 1-2 hours.
Airports Serving the Italian Lakes
Milan-Malpensa Airport is situated 50km northwest of Milan. It is one of three airports in the region (Milan Linate and Bergamo being the other two) and the largest of the three. Malpensa Airport has two terminals, terminal 1 for scheduled flights and terminal 2 for low-fare airlines and charter flights.
Milan-Linate Airport is much smaller than Malpensa but is only 7km from the centre of Milan.
Bergamo Airport is situated 5km from
https://cdn.regiondo.net/media/resellers/js/10614/10614_4.js Bergamo and 45km from Milan. It is in the foothills of the Orobian Alps, along the Swiss border.
Verona Airport (also known as Verona Villafranca) is Verona’s main airport and is located just 18km southwest of Verona.
Verona Brescia Airport is situated 16km southeast of Brescia and 65km west of Verona. It is a small airport used mainly by RyanAir.
Venice Airport, also known as Venice Marco Polo Airport, is the main airport servicing Venice and its environs and is situated up the coast 13km from Venice. It is the fourth largest airport in Italy in terms of air traffic, but it has only one terminal and so can be very busy, particularly in the summer months.
Venice Treviso Airport is a smaller airport, mainly used for charter flights and low-cost airlines. It is situated about 30km northwest of Venice.
Italian Airport Transfer Services
Most resorts in the Italian Lakes are well served by ferry services, a much more suitable and exciting way of exploring the area than by car. Without the need for a car during the week an airport taxi transfer becomes a very attractive option. With an airport taxi transfer you don’t have to worry about car security, parking or petrol and we will whisk you to your resort hassle-free.
Pre-booking your airport taxi transfer will save you time and money. Take the stress and worry out of landing in a foreign airport by arranging our personal meet-and-greet service at the airport. Don’t worry about taxis not being available, being ‘ripped off’, not speaking the language or not having the correct currency.
When arriving in one of Italy’s airports your private taxi, minibus or coach driver will be waiting holding a signboard displaying your party’s name at the exit of the arrivals hall. Please be aware these can be busy areas and you may need to take a good look at all the signboards before you find your name!
We strongly recommend booking your Italian airport taxi transfer early as Italy is a very popular destination and peak dates can become booked up, so take a wait off your mind and book your Italian taxi transfer today.
Italy holidays from £295 average price per person
From mountains to lakes and lazy days to city breaks, Italy offers every type of holiday imaginable – with a guarantee of fabulous food and amazing architecture.
resorts in Italy
Bardolino, Lake Garda
£327 average price per person
- Walking
- Culture
- Walking
- Culture
£295 average price per person
Gardone Riviera, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£430 average price per person
- Walking
- Culture
£497 average price per person
Lake Levico
- Walking
- Culture
Lake Maggiore
- Walking
- Culture
£624 average price per person
Lazise, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£429 average price per person
Limone, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£405 average price per person
Madonna di Campiglio
- Walking
- Culture
Malcesine, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£409 average price per person
Peschiera, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£704 average price per person
Riva, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£405 average price per person
Selva Val Gardena
Sirmione, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
- Spa
£445 average price per person
Torbole, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£843 average price per person
Torri del Benaco, Lake Garda
- Walking
- Culture
£423 average price per person
Val di Fassa
- Walking
- Culture
Venice city add-on
- Walking
- Culture
Verona city add-on
- Walking
- Culture
Ways to book
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