How to explore Italy like a local
20/06/2025 · By Tim Hall
Expert Great Rail Journeys Tour Manager and blogger Tim Hall discusses how to explore Italy with his top tips and advice about food, drink and culture.
Read moreLake Maggiore is the longest lake in Italy, stretching from the Alps to the plains of the Mediterranean. It is so big that it even extends slightly into Switzerland's border. The region hosts picturesque northern Italian countryside sprinkled with idyllic towns and local eateries. Along its shores lie historic villages such as Baveno and Stresa and in the western part of the lake, you'll find the Borromean Islands.
Holidays to Lake Maggiore cater to all tastes, offering delicious food and wine, stunning natural scenery, and 19th-century palaces, among other attractions. With its Mediterranean climate throughout the year, expect a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Browse through our collection of Lake Maggiore holidays and start planning.
Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.
Soak up the beauty, serenity and relaxed ambience of three of Italy's glorious lakes. Staying in a hotel on the peaceful shores of Lake Orta, quieter than its famed neighbours, we explore Como's lakeside towns and elegant Stresa on Lake Maggiore, Italy's second largest lake. On this holiday of picturesque lakes, mountains and unforgettable views,...
Explore the serene beauty of Italy's lakes from your base in the stylish town of Stresa on the shore of Lake Maggiore. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Orta to an island monastery and explore the attractive lakeside village of Orta San Giulio. Journey through the Alps to Switzerland on the Centovalli Railway, passing incredible scenery on the way to...
Step into a bygone era of glamorous travel on this classic holiday, based in a Belle Epoque hotel in Stresa, overlooking beautiful Lake Maggiore. This idyllic holiday includes a boat cruise to the Borromean Islands - with a guided tour of the Borromeo Palace and time to explore the picturesque fishing village of Isola Dei Pescatori. We also...