The beautiful lakes in Italy are truly some of the most stunning destinations in the entire world. From the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Dolomites to the gentle, rolling hills of central Italy, these bodies of water offer a perfect escape from the hustle of the cities. They are the heart of local life, places filled with thousands of years of history, charming villages, and unforgettable stories.
While iconic names like Lake Como get much of the attention, Italy hides countless other gems. This guide will walk you through the most beautiful lakes in Italy, helping you find the perfect one for your next adventure.
1. Lake Como (Lago di Como)
Let’s start with the icon. As one of the most famous lakes in the Italian mountains, Lake Como is the definition of dramatic beauty. This Y-shaped lake is set against the steep foothills of the Alps, with colorful villages clinging to the hillsides.
It’s known for its luxurious villas, celebrity sightings (George Clooney has a famous home here), and high-end life. Yes, it can be expensive and crowded, but its beauty is undeniable.
Towns & Highlights to Visit:
- Bellagio: Known as the “Pearl of the Lake,” this town is famous for its stunning villas (like Villa Melzi) and cobbled streets.
- Varenna: A charming and romantic fishing village with picturesque walkways.
- Villa Carlotta: A magnificent villa and botanical garden that is a must-see.
2. Lake Garda (Lago Di Garda)
Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, so vast that it spans three different regions: Lombardy, Trentino, and Veneto. Because of its size, it offers a huge variety of experiences. The southern end is known for rolling hills and vineyards, while the northern end is a dramatic fjord surrounded by mountains, popular for windsurfing.
It’s one of the best lakes for a family-friendly vacation, with countless activities, theme parks, and historic towns.
Towns & Highlights to Visit:
- Sirmione: A stunning old town on a peninsula, famous for its 13th-century Scaliger Castle and Roman ruins.
- Malcesine: A beautiful town with a castle and a cable car that takes you to the top of Monte Baldo for breathtaking views.
- Limone sul Garda: Famous for its history of growing lemons, with steep hillsides and beautiful harbors.
3. Lake Braies (Lago di Braies)
If you’ve seen a breathtaking “Instagram” photo of an emerald-green lake in the Italian Dolomites, it was probably Lake Braies. In my opinion, it is the most picturesque natural lake in Italy.
The lake is famous for its crystal-clear, emerald water that perfectly reflects the towering, jagged peaks of the Dolomites surrounding it. You can rent a classic wooden rowboat (get there early, as they sell out by mid-morning!) or take the beautiful, easy hiking trail that circles the entire lake. It’s a bit remote, but this stunning piece of nature is worth the drive and a fantastic place for spotting local wildlife and animals.
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4. Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore)
This beautiful lake straddles both Italy and Switzerland, making it unique. It’s Italy’s second-largest lake but tends to be much quieter and more peaceful than Como or Garda. It’s known for its mild climate and stunning gardens.
The real highlight here is island-hopping in the Borromean Islands. Ferries run regularly to these small islands, each with its own charm.
Towns & Highlights to Visit:
- Isola Bella: Famous for its extravagant Baroque palace and incredible terraced gardens.
- Isola Madre: Home to a beautiful palace and an English-style botanical garden.
- Stresa: A lovely resort town that serves as the main gateway to the islands.
5. Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta)
This is one of Italy’s most underrated gems. Lake Orta is a small, enchanting lake just west of Lake Maggiore. It has all the beauty of its larger neighbors but with a magical, medieval atmosphere.
The absolute must-see here is the Isola di San Giulio, a tiny, beautiful island right in the middle of the lake. It’s known as the “island of silence” because it’s home to a still-functioning monastery. You can take a boat over and walk the quiet path around the island, reading plaques that encourage meditation and silence. It’s one of the most peaceful stories you will ever be a part of.
6. Lake Bolsena (Lago di Bolsena)
Located in central Italy (in the Tuscia area), this is one of the best lakes to visit if you want to escape the tourist crowds. Lake Bolsena is a volcanic lake—in fact, it’s the largest volcanic lake in all of Europe.
Unlike the dramatic alpine lakes, its beauty is gentler, surrounded by rolling hills and charming small towns. It has a very comforting, authentic feel. It’s a great place for swimming, boating, and hiking, and its clean waters are home to diverse aquatic animals and birds.
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