Italy is a stunning destination synonymous with relaxation, where locals revel in the philosophy of finding beauty in the simple pleasures of life: sun, sand, sea (lakes), good food, and simply slowing down to enjoy the present moment. It’s also home to some of the most picturesque lakes in the world, each offering unique experiences that make it hard to choose just one to visit. 

No matter what you’re looking for from the perfect Italian escape, a road trip ensures you’re able to see all the impressive spots that top your must-visit list. In this guide, we share our top tips for seeing most of the famous lakes of Italy: Lake Como, Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore as part of an unforgettable road trip.

The Most Famous Lakes of Italy: Lake Maggiore

Start your road trip in Milan and drive to your base near Lake Maggiore, for a peaceful, culture-rich introduction to Italy’s lakes. Stretching all the way to Switzerland, this azure masterpiece offers a paradisiacal escape complete with luxury hotels and fine dining.

Visit the Borromean Islands, especially Isola Bella, to explore a grand 16th-century baroque palace and vibrant, terraced gardens, or venture to Stresa: an elegant town filled with quaint pathways, cafés and restaurants.

Lake Maggiore is surrounded by lush gardens, scenic mountains, and cultural sites, including the historic Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the lake.

↬ Tips:

• It takes around 1.5 hours to get from Milan to the lake, so factor this into your itinerary.
• Choose Stresa as your base for however long you want to spend at Lake Maggiore. Stresa has the best access to ferries, great views, and a relaxed feel compared to busier lake towns.
• The Borromean Islands get busy around midday, so explore them first thing for a quieter, more atmospheric visit.

↬ Read : Visit Lake Como- a 1-Day Escape from Milan

Lake Como

Lake Como is the next stop on your itinerary. Known for its blend of luxury and natural beauty, the lake is renowned for its dramatic scenery, elegant villas and charming towns. Tour the historic villas, such as the opulent Villa Carlotta and its botanical gardens or Villa Balbianello, which is so idyllic it often features on the silver screen, and has starred in famous flicks such as James Bond and Star Wars.

↬ Tips:

• Give yourself around an hour, depending on traffic conditions, to get from Lake Maggiore to Lake Como.
• Prioritise ferries over driving while you’re exploring Como and the surrounding areas. The roads are narrow and slow, especially between Bellagio and Varenna. Ferries are faster, less stressful, and give you the iconic lake views.
• Stay slightly outside the hotspots. Bellagio is beautiful but it can be crowded and pricey. Nearby towns (like Varenna or Menaggio) give you easier access and offer a calmer experience.

↬ Read : 7 most iconic sites in Venice

Lake Garda

Once you’ve soaked up the sights of Lake Como, drive to Lake Garda, one of Italy ’s largest lakes. A paradise for those looking to relax in true Italian style, the area is sprinkled with charming towns, such as the medieval town of Sirmione, which is famous for its thermal spas and Scaliger Castle.

Lake Garda is also family-friendly: amusement parks like Gardaland and Caneva Aquapark mean you can keep the kids entertained while enjoying some much-needed downtime. Set in northern Italy, the region surrounding the lake is known for its delightful wines and cuisine, with numerous vineyards and lakeside restaurants to try.

↬ Tips:

• Travel from Lake Como to Lake Garda takes around 3 hours, so it’s best not to leave too late in the day if you want to make the most of your time there.

• Base yourself on the east or south side of the lake. Areas around Sirmione or Bardolino have easier roads, convenient parking options and accessible access to most areas.
• Explore the north for the ‘wow’ factor – the drive up to Riva del Garda offers dramatic mountain scenery and feels completely different from the southern lake.

↬ Read : Best Places & Hikes in the Dolomites to Visit in the Summer

An unforgettable road trip to Italy’s most beautiful lakes

If you’re seeking a relaxing break, Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore each have something to offer. 

↬ Tips:

• Leave plenty of time to map your route and factor in stops along the way.
• Do plenty of research before making any final itinerary or route decisions, by referring to trusted resources – families may find this guide from Original Travel useful.
• Always keep your card or cash handy for toll roads and fuel.
• Consider travelling during the off-peak season to benefit from less traffic.
• Allow at least 6-7 days for the entire road trip, for enough time to make the most of each lake.

Author bio: Caitlin Lucas
Caitlin is an avid adventurer and Italy is her favourite place to explore. She enjoys sharing her tips for the perfect road trip itinerary with other like-minded travellers.