Italy’s lakes cast a spell on millions of visitors each year. Clear alpine waters lap against shores dotted with pastel-colored towns. Snow-dusted mountains rise from the horizon. Medieval castles perch atop hills. And lakeside cafés serve fresh fish caught that morning.
The lakes in Italy offer a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural richness that makes them ideal destinations for Indian travelers seeking something beyond the standard European tour. Each lake has its own character and charm.
1. Lake Garda
Lake Garda wins the size competition among lakes in Italy, stretching across three regions: Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige. The lake sits less than two hours from Venice by car. It is easily accessible for Indian tourists flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport.
What makes Lake Garda special is its variety. The northern section features dramatic mountains plunging into deep waters—perfect for the best lakes for photography in Italy. The southern shores flatten into a Mediterranean landscape with olive groves and vineyards.
Highlights:
-
Scaliger Castle in Sirmione with its rare medieval port fortification
-
Malcesine’s historic center and cable car to Monte Baldo (1,800m)
-
Gardone Riviera’s botanical gardens and the eccentric Vittoriale estate
-
Riva del Garda’s Austrian-influenced architecture and beach promenades
-
Limone’s traditional lemon groves and picturesque harbor
-
Gardaland theme park—Italy’s largest amusement park
-
Roman ruins of Grotte di Catullo on the Sirmione peninsula
-
Thermal spas offering natural hot spring treatments
Location: Northern Italy spanning Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige regions
Entry Fee: Free access to the lake; many public beaches are free
Timing: Accessible year-round; beaches typically open 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM during summer
Activities: Swimming, windsurfing, sailing, ferry trips, castle tours, hiking, mountain biking, thermal spa visits, wine tasting, and olive oil sampling
Nearby Restaurants:Ristorante Al Bacio, Osteria di Mezzo
Suggested Read: Italy Visa for Indians
2. Lake Como
Perhaps the most famous of all lakes in Italy, Lake Como sits in the Lombardy region, just 40 kilometers north of Milan. Its distinctive Y-shape creates three branches that meet at the resort town of Bellagio.
Lake Como has gained fame for its elegant villas, lush gardens, and celebrity residents. The lake’s deep blue waters against the backdrop of the Alps make it one of the best lakes for photography in Italy. However, its popularity means summer crowds can be intense.
Highlights:
-
Villa del Balbianello with its terraced gardens featured in Star Wars and James Bond films
-
Villa Carlotta’s botanical gardens with over 500 species of plants and flowers
-
Bellagio’s charming narrow streets with boutique shops and the lakefront promenade
-
Varenna’s romantic waterfront and Villa Monastero gardens
-
Como city’s Gothic cathedral and silk manufacturing heritage
-
Brunate funicular offering panoramic views from 715 meters up
-
The historic steamboat cruises across the lake
-
Traditional lakeside villages like Menaggio, Tremezzo, and Cernobbio
Location: Lombardy region in northern Italy, 40km north of Milan
Entry Fee: Free access to the lake; villa entries range from €8-15 (INR 780-1,470)
Timing: Accessible year-round; villas typically open 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (extended hours in summer)
Activities: Villa tours, ferry rides, swimming, hiking, sailing, shopping for silk products, dining at lakeside restaurants, photography, and funicular rides
Nearby Restaurants: Ristorante Mistral, La Darsena, Il Cavatappi
Suggested Read: Italy Visa Extension for Indians
3. Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore stretches across both Italy and Switzerland, creating an international experience within one body of water. This lake ranks second in size among Italian lakes and offers a perfect balance of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
The Belle Époque architecture around Lake Maggiore’s shores recalls the lake’s popularity among European aristocracy in the 19th century. For Indian tourists, it offers a less crowded alternative to Lake Como while still providing stunning scenery.
Highlights:
-
Borromean Islands with Isola Bella’s baroque palace and terraced gardens
-
Isola Madre’s English-style gardens with exotic plants and peacocks
-
Stresa’s elegant lakefront with historic grand hotels
-
Pallanza’s Villa Taranto botanical gardens with over 20,000 plant species
-
Laveno’s “bucket lift” cable car for panoramic lake views
-
Santa Caterina del Sasso monastery built into a cliff face
-
Cannero Castles rising directly from the water
-
Centovalli Railway scenic train journey through mountains and valleys
Location: Spans the Italian regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, extending into Switzerland’s Ticino canton
Entry Fee: Free access to the lake; Borromean Islands entry tickets cost €15-20 (INR 1,470-1,960) for combined sites
Timing: Accessible year-round; major attractions open 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM with extended summer hours
Activities: Island hopping, botanical garden visits, boat tours, hiking, swimming, train excursions, visiting historic villas, photography, and dining
Nearby Restaurants:La Rampolina, Ristorante Milano
Suggested Read: Italy Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
4. Lake Iseo
Lake Iseo remains one of the less crowded but equally beautiful lakes in Italy. Located between Bergamo and Brescia in the Lombardy region, this glacial lake offers authentic Italian experiences without the tourist masses found at larger lakes.
The lake’s main attraction is Monte Isola—Europe’s largest lake island—rising 420 meters above the water. No cars are allowed on the island, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for lakes in Italy for picnics.
Highlights:
-
Monte Isola with its car-free villages, olive groves, and 14th-century church
-
Sulzano, the main gateway town to Monte Isola
-
Site of Christo’s famous 2016 “Floating Piers” art installation
-
Franciacorta wine region nearby with world-class sparkling wines
-
Ancient rock carvings at Parco delle Incisioni Rupestri
-
Lovere, included in “I Borghi più belli d’Italia” (Italy’s most beautiful villages)
-
Traditional fishing culture and wooden boat building
-
Scenic hiking paths with panoramic lake views
Location: Lombardy region between Bergamo and Brescia
Entry Fee: Free access; some beaches charge €3-5 (INR 290-490) for facilities; ferry to Monte Isola costs €4-6 (INR 390-580) round-trip
Timing: Accessible year-round; summer season (May-September) offers more services and ferry options
Activities: Island visits, wine tasting in Franciacorta, hiking, cycling around the lake, swimming, boat tours, fishing, photography, and village exploration
Nearby Restaurants: Ristorante Rivalago, Locanda Al Lago
Suggested Read: Italy Visa Appeal For Indians
5. Lake Orta
Among the hidden lakes in Italy, Lake Orta stands out for its spiritual atmosphere and poetic charm. Located west of Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region, this small alpine lake has attracted writers and artists for centuries.
Lake Orta feels like a secret that tourists haven’t discovered yet. Its centerpiece is the tiny island of San Giulio, dominated by a 12th-century basilica and monastery. The lake’s main town, Orta San Giulio, preserves its medieval character with cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Highlights:
-
Isola San Giulio with its ancient Romanesque basilica just a 5-minute boat ride from shore
-
Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage religious complex with 20 chapels
-
The medieval village of Orta San Giulio with its car-free central piazza
-
16th-century Palazzo della Comunità in the main square
-
Villa Bossi’s beautiful gardens and lakefront setting
-
Mater Ecclesiae Abbey, home to Benedictine nuns
-
Local culinary specialties like freshwater fish and bagna cauda
-
Peaceful atmosphere with significantly fewer tourists than major lakes
Location: West of Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region of northern Italy
Entry Fee: Free access; boat to Isola San Giulio costs €4-5 (INR 390-490) round-trip; Sacro Monte has voluntary donations
Timing: Accessible year-round; most attractions open 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Activities: Boat trips to Isola San Giulio, exploring medieval villages, visiting religious sites, hiking, swimming, dining, photography, and contemplative walks
Nearby Restaurants: Ristorante Venus, Al Boeuc
Suggested Read: Italy Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals
6. Lake Lugano
Lake Lugano creates a unique cross-border experience, with about 60% of its waters in Switzerland and 40% in Italy. This glacial lake sits between Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, offering dramatic mountain scenery and a fascinating blend of Italian and Swiss cultures.
For Indian tourists, Lake Lugano provides a chance to experience two countries in one trip. The Italian shores tend to be less developed and more affordable than the Swiss side, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for authentic experiences.
Highlights:
-
Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè with funicular railways to the summits
-
Lakeside promenades lined with Mediterranean vegetation
-
Swiss-Italian cultural fusion visible in architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle
-
Gandria, a car-free fishing village accessible by boat or hiking path
-
Campione d’Italia, an Italian enclave surrounded by Swiss territory
-
Spectacular Alpine panoramas from numerous viewpoints
-
Parco Ciani’s manicured gardens on the Swiss side
-
Quiet Italian shores with small beaches and authentic villages
Location: Crosses the Swiss-Italian border between Lombardy (Italy) and the Ticino canton (Switzerland)
Entry Fee: Free access; some beaches charge €5-10 (INR 490-980) for facilities
Timing: Accessible year-round; summer season (May-September) offers more services and boat options
Activities: Cross-border boat cruises, hiking mountain trails, swimming, mountain excursions by funicular, shopping, dining, photography, and village exploration
Nearby Restaurants: Grotto San Rocco, Ristorante Arté
Suggested Read: How To Check Italy Visa Status In India
7. Lake Bracciano
Lake Bracciano offers a completely different lake experience compared to the northern Alpine lakes. Located just 30 kilometers northwest of Rome, this volcanic crater lake makes an easy day trip from the capital, yet feels worlds away from the urban bustle.
What makes Lake Bracciano special is its pristine water quality. As one of the cleanest major lakes in Italy, it serves as a drinking water reservoir for Rome. Motor boats are banned, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for swimming and non-motorized water sports.
Highlights:
-
Odescalchi Castle in Bracciano town—one of Italy’s best-preserved medieval castles
-
Three historic towns: Bracciano, Anguillara Sabazia, and Trevignano Romano
-
Exceptionally clean waters due to strict environmental protections
-
Motor-free lake experience with a peaceful atmosphere
-
Volcanic black sand beaches ideal for swimming
-
Etruscan archaeological sites around the lake
-
Traditional Italian atmosphere with fewer international tourists
-
Easy accessibility from Rome (45 minutes by train)
Location: Lazio region, approximately 30km northwest of Rome
Entry Fee: Free access to public beaches; equipped beaches charge €5-8 (INR 490-780) for facilities
Timing: Accessible year-round; summer season (June-September) offers more services and longer hours
Activities: Swimming in clean waters, sailing, kayaking, castle tours, hiking, bird watching, archaeological visits, dining at lakeside restaurants, and day trips from Rome
Nearby Restaurants: Ristorante Sabatino, La Nepitella
Suggested Read: How to Book Italy Visa Appointment in India
8. Lake Varese
Source: wikimedia
Lake Varese sits in the shadow of the Alps, offering spectacular mountain views on clear days. Located in the Lombardy region near the Swiss border, this small lake provides a peaceful retreat with excellent recreational facilities.
What makes Lake Varese stand out is its 28-kilometer cycling and walking path that completely circles the lake—perfect for active travelers. The lake also hosts international rowing competitions, with excellent conditions for water sports.
Highlights:
-
Complete a 28km cycling and walking path circling the entire lake
-
Isolino Virginia—a prehistoric pile-dwelling site and UNESCO World Heritage site
-
Bird watching opportunities in the protected wetland areas
-
Views of Monte Rosa and the Alps on clear days
-
Historic Villa Recalcati and Villa Mirabello with manicured gardens
-
Schiranna area with beaches and water sports facilities
-
Proximity to Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO religious site
-
Traditional fishing heritage and local fish cuisine
Location: Lombardy region, near the city of Varese and close to Lake Maggiore
Entry Fee: Free access to most areas; some beaches charge €3-5 (INR 290-490) for facilities
Timing: Accessible year-round; summer season (May-September) offers more services
Activities: Cycling the lakeside path, bird watching, archaeological visits to Isolino Virginia, swimming, rowing, fishing, hiking, photography, and day trips to nearby Sacro Monte
Nearby Restaurants: Ristorante Tana d’Orso,La Vecchia Riva
Suggested Read: Italy in February
9. Lake Idro
Lake Idro remains one of the most hidden lakes in Italy, offering a tranquil alpine experience without the crowds. Located between Lake Garda and Lake Iseo in the Lombardy region, this glacial lake sits at 368 meters above sea level, surrounded by steep mountains.
For Indian travelers seeking peace and quiet, Lake Idro provides an authentic Italian lake experience at more affordable prices than its famous neighbors. The lake’s pristine waters and mountain setting make it ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights:
-
Pristine alpine setting with dramatic mountain backdrops
-
Quiet atmosphere with minimal tourist development
-
Crystal clear waters ideal for swimming and water sports
-
Historic villages like Anfo with its Rocca fortress
-
Idro village with its charming lakefront and church
-
The extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails
-
Traditional agricultural communities around the lake
-
Rich biodiversity with numerous bird and fish species
Location: Between Lake Garda and Lake Iseo in the Lombardy region
Entry Fee: Free access to most areas; some beaches charge €3-5 (INR 290-490) for facilities
Timing: Accessible year-round; summer season (June-September) offers more services
Activities: Swimming in clean mountain waters, windsurfing (excellent wind conditions), kayaking, hiking mountain trails, mountain biking, fishing, fortress visits, and relaxing in uncrowded settings
Nearby Restaurants: Miralago Lake Idro, Trattoria da Andreina
Suggested Read: Festivals in Italy
10. Lake Bolsena
Lake Bolsena holds the title of Europe’s largest volcanic crater lake, created by the collapse of a volcanic caldera. Located in the Lazio region, about 100 kilometers north of Rome, it offers a completely different geological setting from the Alpine lakes.
The lake’s black volcanic sand beaches and two islands—Bisentina and Martana—create a unique atmosphere. For Indian tourists interested in geology, history, and authentic Italian culture, Lake Bolsena provides a fascinating alternative to the more famous northern lakes.
Highlights:
-
Two islands: Bisentina with its churches and gardens, and Martana with its fortress ruins
-
Black volcanic sand beaches ideal for swimming
-
Bolsena town with its medieval quarter and Monaldeschi Castle
-
Capodimonte peninsula with panoramic views
-
Etruscan and Roman archaeological sites around the lake
-
Annual Corpus Domini celebrations with flower petal carpets
-
Traditional fishing techniques using reed baskets
-
Excellent local cuisine featuring lake fish, olive oil, and wines
Location: Lazio region, approximately 100km north of Rome
Entry Fee: Free access to most areas; some beaches charge €4-6 (INR 390-580) for facilities; boat trips to islands cost €10-15 (INR 980-1,470)
Timing: Accessible year-round; summer season (June-September) offers more services and island visits
Activities: Swimming at volcanic beaches, sailing, fishing, archaeological visits, hiking, dining on local specialties, wine tasting, island tours, and exploring medieval towns
Nearby Restaurants:Trattoria Da Giggetto, Trattoria del Moro
Suggested Read: Hiking in Italy
Why Choose OneVasco?
OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey.
Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.
-
Expert and Personalized Support
-
Efficient and Hassle-Free Process
-
Real-Time Tracking and Updates
-
Transparent Communication
FAQs
How many lakes are in Italy?
Italy has over 1,500 lakes, mostly in the north, especially the Alpine and pre-Alpine regions. They range from large lakes like Garda and Como to small mountain lakes high in the Alps.
Are the lakes in Italy man-made?
Most lakes in Italy are natural. Northern lakes formed from glaciers during the Ice Age. Central lakes like Bolsena and Bracciano formed in volcanic craters. Only a small percentage of lakes in Italy are man-made.
What is the most beautiful lake in Italy?
Lake Como often tops lists of beautiful lakes to visit in Italy. Lake Orta is known for its charm and the island monastery. Lake Garda offers diverse landscapes, while Lake Maggiore features the stunning Borromean Islands.
Can you swim in the lakes in Italy?
Yes, is swimming allowed in Italy lakes is a common question with a positive answer. Most lakes permit swimming and have designated areas. Lake Bracciano is very clean, while Garda and Maggiore offer many beaches.
What is the best time to visit Italy’s lakes?
The best time to visit lakes in Italy is from May to October. June to August is warm but crowded. May and September offer mild weather with fewer tourists. Winter brings cooler temperatures but scenic views.
What activities can you do at the lakes in Italy?
At lakes in Italy, you can swim, sail, kayak, windsurf, hike, cycle, take ferry trips, tour villas and castles, enjoy wine tasting, dine by the water, shop in historic towns, or relax on beaches.
Is there an entry fee for lakes in Italy?
The entry fee for lakes in Italy varies. Most lakes are free to access, but some beaches charge €3–10 (INR 290-980) for amenities. Nearby attractions like villas, castles, and gardens often have separate fees of €5–20 (INR 490-1,960).
Are pets allowed at Italy’s lakes?
Pets are often allowed at lakes in Italy, but rules vary. Many areas welcome leashed dogs, though some beaches restrict them in peak season. Dog-friendly beaches exist at major lakes. Check local regulations beforehand.
