The Graceful Italian Lakes
Italy
Formed at the end of the ice age and a holiday destination since Roman times. Lake Maggiore's Borromean Island palaces, the cross-lake ferry to Laveno, then Lake Como, the siren call of Hollywood stars, traced from the silk capital of Como to Bellagio's perfect promontory and beyond to Bergamo.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Stresa
The grand Belle Epoque resort on Lake Maggiore, with a cable car to Monte Mottarone and the baroque Borromean Islands anchored just offshore.
- Borromean Islands
Three islands in Lake Maggiore: Isola Bella's baroque palace and terraced gardens, Isola Madre's botanical park. Grand ballrooms here once hosted Napoleon.
- Verbania
The largest town on Lake Maggiore, home to the exceptional botanical gardens of Villa Taranto. The car ferry to Laveno departs here, cutting 40 km off the drive.
- Como
The elegant foot of Lake Como and still Europe's foremost producer of silk fabrics. The funicular climbs to Brunate village for a full panorama of the lake.
- Bellagio
The pearl of the lake sits on the promontory where Como's two arms divide. Flower-draped alleys, the Villa Melzi gardens, and views in every direction.
- Varenna
A quieter alternative to Bellagio, reached by ferry across the lake. Villa Monastero's botanical terraces cascade directly down to the water's edge.
- Bergamo
The upper city is a medieval walled marvel on a hill above the Lombardy plain, with Venetian gates, a magnificent Romanesque basilica, and a funicular to the lower town.
Where to Eat
- Ristorante Il PortichettoItalian
A charming eatery in Varenna offering traditional Lombard dishes with a modern twist, set in a cozy, rustic ambiance.
- La PuntaSeafood
Located at the tip of Bellagio, this restaurant provides fresh lake fish specialties with panoramic views of Lake Como.
- Trattoria Baita BelvedereItalian
Nestled above Bellagio, this trattoria serves hearty local cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain and lake vistas.
Things to Do
- Villa MonasteroHistoric Site
A former monastery in Varenna, now a museum and botanical garden, showcasing period furnishings and lush lakeside gardens.
- Castello di VezioHistoric Site
A medieval castle perched above Varenna, offering panoramic views of Lake Como and hosting art exhibitions.
- Villa CarlottaMuseum
A 17th-century villa in Tremezzo, renowned for its art collection and expansive botanical gardens overlooking the lake.