Lake Maggiore

The northernmost towns of Ascona and Locarno are in the Swiss Ticino area, and Lake Maggiore, the second-largest lake in Italy, is shared with Switzerland. However, the majority of the lake, where the best things to do in Maggiore are, is in Italy. The lower end of the lake is only a few kilometers from Malpensa airport, and towns along its western side are directly accessible by train from Milan.

The majority of the top attractions are located on the western side, where you can also find Villa Taranto and Villa Pallavicino's stunning subtropical gardens and park. The latter is one of the most popular family-friendly activities on Lake Maggiore because it features botanical and displays gardens as well as a zoo with exotic animals.

Boat transport visitors to the three Borromean Islands from fashionable Stresa, which serves as a popular base. Rocca Borromeo, the extravagant palace on Isola Bella, is the main draw despite the fact that each of the islands has its own appeal. The majority of the island is covered in magnificent salons and galleries with lavish ornamental flourishes covered in gold, but the highlight of a tour is the much more exquisite formal garden that rises tier after tier above the lake.

Compared to Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore has fewer beaches, although various towns offer canoe and kayak rentals. The finest way to see Angera Castle, lakefront homes, and the ever-changing mountains to the north is to take a tour on one of the lake steamers.

Location: Lombardy and Piedmont, Italy