When planning my Italian lakes getaway last summer, I found myself torn between the glamorous Lake Como and its lesser-known neighbor, Lake Maggiore. After visiting both, I can honestly say that Maggiore stole my heart.
While Lake Como attracts celebrities and crowds, Lake Maggiore offers equally stunning scenery with a more authentic Italian experience and fewer tourists.
The beauty of Lake Maggiore lies in its peaceful atmosphere and gorgeous surroundings. Mountains rise dramatically from the shoreline, creating a backdrop that rivals Como’s famous views.
What’s more, the locals I met seemed to prefer Maggiore for their own vacations, which told me everything I needed to know about its charm.
My days exploring the magnificent Borromean Islands and evenings dining in restaurants where English menus were rare gave me a taste of real Italian life. The prices were more reasonable than Como, and I never had to battle crowds for the perfect photo spot.
This less touristy gem allowed me to experience the Italian lakes as they should be enjoyed – with relaxation and wonder rather than fighting through tour groups.
Discovering the Charm of the Italian Lakes
Italy’s northern lakes offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe, each with its own distinct personality and attractions. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding Alps, creating postcard-perfect views that have captivated visitors for centuries.
The Grandeur of Lombardy’s Waterscapes
Lombardy’s lakes are jewels set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps. I first visited this region on a whim and was immediately enchanted by the elegant villas, lush gardens, and charming lakeside towns.
Lake Como might be the celebrity favorite, with its glamorous reputation and Hollywood connections. The Y-shaped lake boasts steep shorelines and elegant Renaissance villas that speak to centuries of aristocratic leisure.
In contrast, Lake Maggiore has a more relaxed atmosphere. The locals I met actually prefer it to Como, calling it less touristy and more authentic. Maggiore’s rigid coastline and mountain surroundings create a completely different vibe than its famous neighbor.
The Borromean Islands near Stresa are Maggiore’s crown jewels. These botanical wonderlands are easier to reach than many Como attractions, making Maggiore slightly more convenient for the average visitor.
Lake Garda: The Picturesque Giant
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, offers incredible diversity across its expansive shoreline. I spent three days exploring and still felt I’d barely scratched the surface of its charms.
The northern part feels almost fjord-like, with dramatic cliffs plunging into deep blue waters. Here, windsurfers and sailors take advantage of the reliable breezes that sweep down from the mountains.
Southern Garda presents a different character entirely. Mediterranean vegetation thrives in the milder climate, with olive groves and vineyards dotting the landscape. The town of Sirmione, with its thermal baths and medieval castle, was a highlight of my visit.
What surprised me most about Garda was its accessibility for active travelers. The lakeside paths and mountain trails offer endless opportunities for hiking and biking, making it more sport-oriented than the sometimes stuffy atmosphere of Como.
Lake Maggiore: The Understated Beauty
Lake Maggiore captivated me with its serene atmosphere and dramatic mountain backdrop. This elegant body of water straddles Italy and Switzerland, offering a more peaceful alternative to its famous sibling.
Borromean Islands: A Hidden Treasure
The jewels of Lake Maggiore are undoubtedly the Borromean Islands. I spent a full day hopping between these three distinctive islands, each with its own personality.
Isola Bella stunned me with its baroque palace and terraced gardens that rise like a pyramid from the water. The landscaping is simply magnificent, with white peacocks wandering freely among statues and exotic plants.
Isola Madre, the largest island, feels like a botanical paradise. I wandered through English-style gardens filled with rare plants, ancient trees, and colorful exotic birds. The Renaissance villa houses impressive collections of dolls and puppets.
Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) offers a complete contrast. This tiny island remains authentically inhabited, with narrow lanes, charming restaurants, and fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. I enjoyed the freshest lake fish for lunch while watching boats crisscross the lake.
Stresa: The Captivating Lakeside Town
Stresa serves as the perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore. This elegant resort town in Piedmont captured my heart with its belle époque architecture and relaxed atmosphere. The stunning lakefront promenade lined with palm trees and flowerbeds offers breathtaking views of the Borromean Islands.
I spent hours exploring Stresa’s historic center with its quaint cafés and shops selling local specialties. The town’s grand hotels like the Regina Palace and Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées evoke the glamorous era when writers and royalty vacationed here.
What I appreciated most about Stresa was its authenticity. Despite being a popular destination, it maintains its Italian character and isn’t overwhelmed by tourists. The cable car from nearby Carciano up to Mount Mottarone provided spectacular panoramic views of seven lakes and the Alps.
Lake Como’s Esteemed Reputation
Lake Como has earned its celebrity status for good reason. The stunning alpine setting, glamorous villas, and air of exclusivity have attracted everyone from Roman aristocrats to modern-day Hollywood stars.
Bellagio and the Lure of Luxury
When I first arrived in Bellagio, I understood why they call it the “Pearl of Lake Como.” This elegant town sits at the junction where Lake Como splits into two branches, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
The cobblestone streets wind uphill from the waterfront, lined with high-end boutiques selling silk scarves, leather goods, and artisanal crafts. I loved wandering through the colorful buildings with their iron balconies overflowing with flowers.
Villa Serbelloni’s gardens provide a peaceful escape, while the lakefront promenade offers perfect people-watching. Here you’ll spot everything from luxury yachts to classic wooden boats.
The town’s luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants cater to a jet-set crowd. George Clooney’s nearby villa has only enhanced Bellagio’s reputation as a playground for the elite.
Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello: Historical Havens
Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo captured my heart with its botanical garden and art collection. The 17th-century mansion houses sculptures by Antonio Canova and paintings by Francesco Hayez.
The real magic happens outside among 20 acres of gardens. In spring, azaleas and rhododendrons create a riot of color. The terraced landscape features bamboo forests, ferns, and ancient cedars.
Villa del Balbianello in Lenno might look familiar—it’s appeared in “Star Wars” and “Casino Royale.” Perched on a wooded peninsula, this 18th-century villa offers the most dramatic setting on Lake Como.
I was enchanted by its perfectly manicured gardens and loggia with arched windows framing Lario (the local name for Lake Como). The interior showcases expedition artifacts collected by its last owner, explorer Guido Monzino.
Cultural Encounters and Cinematic Moments
Both Lake Maggiore and Lake Como offer rich historical narratives and have served as backdrops for famous films. The cultural heritage of these lakes adds layers of fascination beyond their natural beauty.
Following the Footsteps of the Borromeo Family
My visit to Lake Maggiore introduced me to the fascinating legacy of the Borromeo family, whose influence shaped the region for centuries. I spent a full day exploring Isola Bella, home to the magnificent Borromeo Palace with its baroque architecture and meticulously terraced gardens.
The family’s cultural imprint extends beyond just one island. On Isola Madre, I wandered through what felt like a botanical paradise, complete with exotic plants and peacocks roaming freely.
What struck me most was how accessible these historical treasures felt compared to Como. I could linger in the palace rooms without crowds jostling for photos, giving me time to absorb the family’s artistic collections and the stories behind them.
From Villa Monastero to George Lucas’ Vision
Lake Como’s Villa Monastero captivated me with its blend of architectural styles spanning centuries. The botanical garden stretches along the shoreline with over 900 species of plants and flowers. This historic gem offers a glimpse into aristocratic life that feels both grand and intimate.
But the true cinematic star of Lake Como is Villa del Balbianello. Star Wars fans will recognize it instantly as the filming location for Anakin and Padmé’s wedding in “Attack of the Clones.”
George Lucas transformed this 18th-century villa into an otherworldly retreat, and I found the villa’s dramatic position on a wooded peninsula creates views that truly feel like something from another galaxy.
Final Reflections: Embracing the Less Famous Sibling
After spending time at both Italian lakes, I’m convinced Lake Maggiore deserves more attention. Its quieter atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop create a peaceful experience. Lake Como’s popularity sometimes compromises this.
What struck me most about Lake Maggiore was the genuine local culture that remains intact. Unlike Lake Como, where celebrity homes and tourists dominate conversations, Maggiore lets you connect with authentic Italian lakeside life.
The price difference cannot be overlooked either. My hotel room with a lake view at Maggiore cost nearly 40% less than a similar option at Como. This left more budget for incredible meals and experiences.
I found myself breathing easier at Lake Maggiore—both literally and figuratively. The relaxed pace allowed me to truly unwind. This was unlike rushing between tourist hotspots or fighting crowds for the perfect photo.
Don’t misunderstand—Lake Como is breathtaking and deserves its fame. George Clooney chose it for good reason! But Lake Maggiore offers a different kind of Italian lake experience that feels more intimate and accessible.
For travelers seeking Italy’s spectacular lake scenery without the crowds, Lake Maggiore represents that perfect balance of beauty, authenticity, and value. Sometimes the less famous sibling truly does offer the more rewarding experience.
