Top 20 most beautiful lakes in Italy2026 ranking

Lake Como is part of the pre-Alpine lake chain in northern Italy. Its inverted Y shape creates a unique atmosphere with views spanning lakes, plains, and mountains. For hikers, the western shore features the Via Regina, a route dating back to Roman times. On the east, the 45-kilometer Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer's Path) connects Lecco to Colico. Watersports like windsurfing and waterskiing are also popular.

Lake Garda offers shifting landscapes, from the narrow, cliff-lined northern Alto Lago to the gently sloping shores of the Basso Lago. Windy northern conditions near Riva del Garda favor water sports. The area is also famous for thermal springs, with popular spots including the public baths in Sirmione and the landscaped Parco Thermale del Garda.

Lake Varese sits in northern Italy within the Lombardy region. Alongside seven other lakes, including the famous Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, it forms a natural cluster at the base of the Italian Alps. Quieter than its neighbors, Lake Varese is perfect for cycling or birdwatching, home to gray herons and black kites. It is also the start of the Verde Varesina, a multi-day trail through the pre-Alpine hills.

Lake Lugano spans the border between Italy and Switzerland, sitting near Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Framed by high mountains, the area features diverse landscapes, from wooded shores and traditional villages to the prosperous Swiss city of Lugano. Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dei Ghirli, a historic pilgrimage site in the Italian enclave of Campione d'Italia.

Located in Northern Italy, Lake Iseo has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Beyond its clear waters and mountain peaks, the area features wetlands like the Torbiere del Sebino (Sebino Peat Bog) near the town of Iseo. In 2016, the lake hosted Floating Piers, an installation by artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude connecting Sulzano to Monte Isola.

Lake Mezzola is a compact, 3.7-mile-long lake in Italy. Once connected to Lake Como, it is now linked by the Mera river. This river winds through the 3,950-acre Pian di Spagna (Plain of Spain) wetlands. Formed by centuries of alluvial deposits, this vital habitat draws migratory birds and provides a sanctuary for nesting species.

Lake Orta is a Piedmont gem in northern Italy. At 13.4 km long and 2.5 km wide, it is one of the smallest Alpine lakes. Quieter than nearby Lake Maggiore, it offers a mix of historic charm and nature. From Orta San Giulio, hike up to see the twenty-one chapels of the Sacro Monte (Sacred Mountain), depicting the life of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Lake Maggiore is a centerpiece of the Prealps in northern Italy. Famous for grand estates like the Villa Taranto in Verbania, its manicured gardens and island excursions showcase the region's charm. Once home to the Borromeo family, the area keeps its historic palaces and natural scenery. Explore diverse climates, from mountain peaks to local citrus groves.