Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... LAGO MAGGIORE, Italy — When I was growing up in Italy, it was nearly a mandate for well-heeled northerners to summer on the sun-warmed lakes at the foot of ... Lago Maggiore as seen by drone.

Understanding the Context

Screengrab: Francesco Ferrrari/YouTube If you're not able to visit Italy's sights in person just yet, you can take a tour of the country from the comfort of your sofa. Here’s a look at the best things to do, places to stay, and things to eat on Italy’s chilled-out Lake Maggiore. Often overlooked for the glamor of Lake Como or the playground of Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore is Italy’s serene older sister. Its art-deco towns and grand villas give the whole area a sophisticated, reserved air.

Key Insights

The lake is a perfect summer destination, with its many beach clubs and hotels. A Local's Guide To Lake Maggiore: 7 Places You Can't Miss - The Italy Edit A visit to Lago Maggiore offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. This picturesque Italian destination is more than just a lake – it’s a gateway to a rich and varied adventure that combines natural beauty, history, culture, and gastronomy. Welcome to Lake Maggiore, Italy’s second-largest lake and arguably its most underrated gem. While crowds flock to Lake Como, savvy travelers are uncovering the fact that Maggiore offers everything its famous counterpart does—and more.

Final Thoughts

Lake Maggiore Travel Guide: Italy's Hidden Alpine Gem 2026 - Itinerary ... Lake Maggiore, second largest lake in Italy (area 82 square miles [212 square km]), bisected by the border between Lombardy (east) and Piedmont (west). Its northern end is in the Swiss Ticino canton.