Italian Lakes Holidays
Have you ever thought about exploring the beautiful Italian Lakes?
Maybe its time to put that thought into action?
Italian Lakes
Holidays in the Italian Lakes bring together elegant charm, dramatic scenery, and timeless romance. From Lake Garda’s sunlit promenades and family-friendly resorts to the glamour and historic villas of Lake Como, each destination has its own unique character. Take a boat to the enchanting Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore, discover the authentic charm of Lake Orta, or enjoy the peaceful retreats around Lake Iseo. Alongside shimmering waters and alpine backdrops, visitors can explore castles, wander cobbled streets, ride mountain cable cars, and savour pizzas, fresh lake fish, and creamy gelato in lakeside cafés. With Milan, Verona, and Venice close by, the lakes are also the perfect base for combining natural beauty with world-class culture and history.
Stretching from the River Po to the lower Alps and Dolomites, the Italian Lakes are as varied as they are spectacular. Lake Garda offers vineyards in the south and rugged cliffs in the north, while Lake Como exudes star studded luxury. Maggiore, straddling Italy and Switzerland, impresses with its palatial villas and island gardens, while Orta and Iseo remain tranquil hideaways off the beaten path. As the sun sets, the surrounding peaks glow in shades of pink and orange, creating a breathtaking backdrop that has inspired travellers for generations. Whether you’re seeking indulgent relaxation, outdoor adventures, or a taste of authentic Italy, the Italian Lakes promise a holiday filled with unforgettable experiences.
Picturesque Lake Garda
Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is a picture-perfect destination offering endless activities on and off the water. Take a leisurely boat trip across its sparkling waters or venture into the nearby Dolomites for breathtaking alpine scenery, just a short journey away.
A holiday to Lake Garda promises some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. Set in northern Italy, just west of Verona, the lake is framed by dramatic peaks, elegant towns, and historic castles, making it one of the best places to experience authentic Italian charm.
Around its shores lie some of the lake’s most beloved destinations: Peschiera del Garda, with canals reminiscent of Venice; Lazise, a pretty lakeside town with medieval character; Garda, perfect for a stroll along its waterfront; and Bardolino, famous for its surrounding vineyards and wine heritage.
The northern shores of Lake Garda offer a quieter, more local atmosphere, with stunning mountain views and scenic villages such as Riva del Garda and Limone sul Garda. Whether you’re drawn to peaceful walks, historic sites, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying Italian cuisine with a glass of wine, Lake Garda offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
Flight Information
The most convenient gateway to Lake Garda is Verona Airport (VRN), just a short journey from the lakeside. Direct flights operate from Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Glasgow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, and Southampton, with a flying time of approximately two hours, making your Italian escape effortlessly within reach.
When to Go
Framed by olive groves and shimmering waters, Lake Garda is a timeless summer retreat, with most luxury hotels welcoming guests from April through October. During July and August, the lake is at its most vibrant, with sun-drenched days and a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
For a more tranquil experience, consider travelling in May, June, or September, when the weather remains wonderfully warm, often around 20–25°C, yet the ambience is more serene. Spring and early autumn reveal the lake at its most graceful, ideal for leisurely exploration, fine dining, and sunset aperitifs by the water’s edge.
Romantic Lake Como
From grand lakeside villas to Michelin starred dining, Lake Como offers a perfect blend of elegance, culture, and natural beauty. Step inside Villa Balbianello, a pristine 18th century villa with exquisite gardens, or take an unforgettable journey on the Bernina Express to admire some of Europe’s most dramatic alpine scenery.
A holiday to Lake Como is the ultimate expression of Italian romance and luxury. Beloved by honeymooners and the world’s elite, this glamorous destination lies just a short distance from Milan and is surrounded by soaring peaks, medieval villages, and opulent hotels. The lake is dotted with enchanting towns to explore: browse chic boutiques in Bellagio, stroll the gardens of Tremezzo, or admire the pastel-hued houses of Varenna.
While the lake is deservedly popular, there are also quieter gems to discover. Visit Lecco in the southeast, explore the peaceful charm of Bellano, or head to Argegno, set against dramatic mountains near George Clooney’s famed Villa Oleandra. And don’t miss Como town itself, often overlooked, boasts a beautiful medieval centre, stylish piazzas, and a scenic promenade that perfectly captures the timeless charm of this iconic Italian lake.
Flight Information
Your journey to Lake Como begins with ease. The most convenient arrival point is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), just over an hour’s drive from the lake’s glistening shores. Direct flights operate from Birmingham, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, and Manchester, with a flight time of approximately two hours.
Alternatively, Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) offers direct connections from Bristol, Manchester, and East Midlands, also taking around two hours, another effortless gateway to the Italian Lakes.
When to Go
Renowned for its timeless elegance, Lake Como is at its most captivating between April and October. During July and August, the lake sparkles beneath the summer sun, creating the perfect setting for alfresco dining, boating, and relaxation along its glamorous waterfronts.
Those who prefer a more peaceful escape will find May, June, and September particularly enchanting, when the days are warm, the crowds lighter, and the landscapes bathed in soft, golden light. With water temperatures rising above 20°C from July to September, it’s an idyllic time for swimming and lakefront leisure. Spring and early autumn offer a gentler rhythm, ideal for exploring the region’s villas, gardens, and charming lakeside towns.
Explore Spectacular Lake Maggiore
Set against a backdrop of the Southern Alps, Lake Maggiore stretches between Italy and Switzerland, offering alpine scenery with a fresh Mediterranean climate. From here, you can journey to the famous resort of Zermatt to see the Matterhorn up close, or head to nearby Milan for world-class shopping and fashion.
As Italy’s second-largest lake, Maggiore spans more than forty miles and is home to 42 towns and five enchanting islands. With so much to explore, holidays here combine the best of both Italy and Switzerland. Take a boat across the lake to visit lush island gardens, wander through elegant villas, and soak in sweeping lakeside views.
Perfect for couples and keen explorers alike, Lake Maggiore holidays are as romantic as they are adventurous. Stroll along picturesque promenades, discover historic architecture, and enjoy the relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere that makes this one of Italy’s most spectacular destinations.
Flight Information
Your escape to Lake Maggiore begins with a smooth and scenic journey. The most convenient gateway is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), located just over an hour from the lake. Direct flights operate from Birmingham, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted, and Manchester, with a flight time of around two hours.
Alternatively, Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) offers excellent connections from London Stansted, Bristol, Manchester, East Midlands, and Belfast, also taking approximately two hours, providing an effortless arrival into northern Italy’s enchanting lake district.
When to Go
Framed by snow-dusted Alpine peaks and elegant lakeside towns, Lake Maggiore is a captivating summer retreat, welcoming visitors from April through October. The lake is particularly beautiful in spring, when mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers bring the landscape to life.
For those seeking warm days and a relaxed atmosphere, May, June, and September are perfect months to visit. July and August are the warmest and liveliest, ideal for enjoying leisurely boat trips, vibrant piazzas, and long, sunlit evenings by the water’s edge.
Tranquil Charm of Lake Orta
Holidays to Lake Orta reveal one of Northern Italy’s best kept secrets, an unspoilt jewel of the Italian Lakes. Often described as one of the country’s most beautiful and tranquil destinations, Lake Orta is home to pastel hued buildings, cobbled lanes, and the enchanting island of Isola San Giulio. The historic town of Orta San Giulio, with its romantic lakeside setting, provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful escape.
Ideal for couples, this lakeside retreat invites leisurely strolls, breathtaking views, and moments of calm. Culture lovers will find plenty to explore too, from the UNESCO-listed Sacro Monte di Orta, a collection of centuries old chapels, to the striking Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its medieval façade overlooking the lake.
Here you can select a hotel to make your visit truly memorable. You can enjoy dinner on the lakeside terraces, unwind by the pool, and take in spectacular views. A visit to San Giulio Island is a must walk, its peaceful “path of silence,” explore its frescoed church, and, if you’re lucky, hear the ethereal chants of the Benedictine nuns that make the island so unique.
For those wishing to venture further, Lake Maggiore lies just 19 km away. Here you’ll find Isola Madre, part of the Borromean Islands, famous for its lush botanical gardens filled with exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and roaming peacocks. With charming shops, scenic restaurants, and sweeping views, it’s the perfect complement to a Lake Orta holiday.
Flight Information
Tucked away in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Orta is easily reached via Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), the nearest international gateway, located just over an hour’s drive from the lake. Direct flights operate from Birmingham, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, and Manchester, with a journey time of approximately two hours. Your serene lakeside escape is just a short flight away.
When to Go
Charming and unspoiled, Lake Orta welcomes visitors from April through October, when the surrounding hills and medieval villages are bathed in sunlight. The height of summer, July and August, brings the warmest temperatures and a lively ambience along the lakefront.
For a more tranquil experience, May, June, and September are ideal months to visit, when the air is warm, the atmosphere peaceful, and the lake’s beauty at its most graceful. Spring and early autumn offer mild, golden days, perfect for exploring cobbled streets, enjoying al fresco dining, and taking in the timeless elegance of this hidden Italian gem.
The Peaceful Lake Iseo
Tucked between Lake Garda and Lake Como, Lake Iseo is a hidden gem with a calm, natural beauty. While its neighbours have grown busier and more developed, Iseo has retained a sense of peace and authenticity, offering visitors an escape from the crowds.
Framed by the dramatic peaks of the Alps, the lake is home to some of Italy’s most picturesque villages. Its capital, Iseo, charms with a pretty harbour and lively squares, while out on the water lies Monte Isola, Europe’s largest inhabited lake island. Larger than Capri, it’s perfect for cycling and leisurely exploration.
Lake Iseo is also renowned for its wine heritage, especially the sparkling Franciacorta DOCG, with vineyards and wineries scattered across the surrounding hills. For day trips, the medieval treasures of Brescia are just 25 minutes away, while Lake Garda can be reached in under an hour, making Iseo an ideal base for both relaxation and discovery.
Flight Information
Cradled between the sparkling waters of Lake Garda and the rolling hills of Franciacorta wine country, Lake Iseo is best reached via Verona Airport (VRN), the nearest international gateway, located just over an hour and a half away. Direct flights operate from Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Glasgow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, and Southampton, with a flight time of approximately two hours. From Verona, a scenic drive through vineyards and mountain vistas leads you to this tranquil Italian gem.
When to Go
Peaceful and picturesque, Lake Iseo welcomes visitors from April through October, when its lakeside towns and walking trails are alive with colour and charm. The height of summer, July and August, brings the warmest weather and a lively ambience along the waterfront.
If you prefer a quieter escape, May, June, and September offer pleasantly warm temperatures , often around 20°C, and a more relaxed pace of life. Spring and early autumn reveal Lake Iseo at its most authentic, with soft light, gentle breezes, and the serene beauty that makes this lesser known Italian lake so captivating.
Are you ready to visit the Italian Lakes?
Let Above The Clouds - Luxury Escapes organise it for you.
📞 Call us today: 020 8191 1124 / 07718 996363 or click here to start an enquiry,
