Over Lake Como? Try Lake Maggiore Instead

Lake Maggiore offers many of the same pleasures with greater ease and equal elegance. The scenery is every bit as beautiful: Alpine peaks descending into shimmering blue water, Belle Époque architecture, lush gardens, and glamorous lakeside promenades, yet the atmosphere remains calmer, more gracious, and less performative.

There is also a sophistication to Lake Maggiore that reveals itself slowly. Rather than chasing headlines or celebrity sightings, the lake appeals to travelers who value space, discretion, and a deep sense of Italian cham. The experience feels less transactional and more personal: quieter waterfronts, unhurried lunches, and hotels where service still feels genuinely attentive. Much less staging for social media. While it generally prices better than Lake Como, the value it delivers is right on par.

At the heart of that appeal is Stresa, my favorite town and arguably the crown jewel of Lake Maggiore. Elegant without being flashy, Stresa combines old-world grandeur with a relaxed rhythm that many travelers now find increasingly rare on Lake Como. Its position overlooking the Borromean Islands creates one of the most beautiful lake panoramas in Italy, while its walkable center, historic hotels, and accessible dining scene make it ideal for longer stays.

Gardens on Isola Bella, in the middle of Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore’s Barromean Islands

Dining

Restaurants around the lake are quiet, yet overflowing with local fish and rice dishes, slow cooked meats, and heavenly pastas. The wine game is top-notch; bars and restaurants often feature Piemonte’s best Barolos as the house wine. Unlike Lake Como, where ferry travel is a necessity, travelers also find it easy enough to drive around the lake—which enables them to expand their dining options.

Here are some of my favorite eateries to consider.

• Gallione: Fine dining, amazing food and service. Awesome restaurant, from the welcome aperitivo to dessert. The service is top-notch, and the space is beautiful. To start, get the beef tartar (made tableside, and amazing). For mains, the stand-out is the saffron risotto with bone marrow.

• Meina Beach Club: Basic restaurant/pizzeria with great spritz. Food is good, but sitting in the yard with a panoramic lake view makes this casual spot ideal.

• Il Vicoletto: Amazing meats / steaks, and other local goodies run by the most caring women. Highly recommend for a more special meal (used to have a Michelin star).

• Osteria Mercato: My favorite meal in Stresa. Very cute, casual and fresh food. The menu was creative and modern, and the service is attentive without being stuffy.

• Trattoria Imbarcadeo: On the strip of shops on Isola dei Pescatori in the middle of Lake Maggiore. Great fried fish. Request a table outside on the water (the restaurant is huge, and the interior isn’t as nice).

Lake Maggiore’s grandeur

Activities

Activity-wise, there is absolutely no shortage of things to do.

• Take a private boat or ferry to explore the Borromean islands. Don’t miss the historic villas and gardens on Isola Bella, or a big fish lunch on Isola dei Pescatori.

• Meander lake towns like Stresa, Arona, and Ascona.

• Head out for a day trip of hiking in the hills surrounding the lakes, or even up to the Swiss Alps.

• Learn to cook risotto with a seasoned “casalinga”.

• Venture off to nearby wineries like the family-friendly Fontechiara, or Azienda Vitivinicola.

Accommodation

Hotel-wise, Stresa has three show-stopping properties that I leverage regularly for my different types of clients.

Hotel Villa e Palazzo Aminta

Traditional Italian style, the most perfect terrace overlooking the lake for daily breakfast and lovely pool—this is the quintessential five-star, grand lake hotel experience, and likely my most booked property on the lake. It’s opulent interiors, impeccable gardens, sweeping lake views, and a sense of timeless Italian glamour make it my go-to. Facing Isola Bella (this is the only hotel with these types of panoramic island views), Villa e Palazzo Aminta captures the romance travelers often seek on Lake Como, but with a quieter, more exclusive feel. The service is polished yet warm, and the atmosphere remains wonderfully serene. Easy parking, and caters to both families and couples alike (it offers many room types, including a couple of on-site apartments or suites for larger groups).

Villa e Palazzo Aminta’s breakfast terrace

More views from Villa e Palazzo Aminta

Boutique Hotel Stresa

This intimate boutique property reflects the evolving side of Stresa: refined, sophisticated, and design-conscious. It’s Stresa’s newest gem. Perfectly positioned in town near the lakefront, it offers a more personal and curated stay experience while retaining the charm and elegance that define Lake Maggiore as a whole. Many of the rooms include spa-style amenities (like saunas, jacuzzis, etc.), and are romantic, making it ideal for honeymooners. The lobby is very exclusive, there is zero hustle and bustle—yet the vibes are impeccable. Its rooftop panoramic terrace is perfect for aperitivo, and can be reserved by non hotel guests in the area.

Boutique Hotel Stresa’s perfect rooftop

Hotel la Palma

For travelers seeking a more streamlined experience, Hotel La Palma is one of Lake Maggiore’s practical addresses. Its rooftop pool and swanky panoramic terrace are a highlight, yet the mood remains distinctly relaxed. The hotel strikes an ideal balance between modernity and accessibility, making it especially appealing for couples. More budget-friendly than the other two hotels I mentioned, its rooms are a little smaller and its better for younger travelers.

Views from Isola Bella, back to shore

For clients who have “done” Lake Como, or for those simply looking for a sophisticated value proposition, Lake Maggiore increasingly feels like the perfect choice. It delivers the beauty, luxury, and romance people imagine when dreaming of the Italian lakes, but with less congestion, greater tranquility, and a more authentic sense of place.

Oh—and did I mention Stresa is less than one hour from Malpensa (Milan’s major airport), making it a perfect pre-arrival or pre-departure stop.

Lake Maggiore never disappoints. As a lesser-known destination compared to its sister, Lake Como, my clients are consistently surprised by all it has to offer.

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