The Great Lakes Around Turin

Day Trip · Northern Italy

The Great Lakes
Around Turin

Elegant villages, mountain scenery and timeless Italian atmosphere

Northern Italy is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. From Turin, visitors can easily reach spectacular lake destinations surrounded by mountains, historic villages, gardens and elegant waterfront promenades.

Some are perfect for a relaxed day trip, others deserve a slower full-day experience with boat rides, lakeside lunches and panoramic drives.

Lake 1

Lake Maggiore

The classic Italian lake experience

Why Tourists Love It

  • Elegant lakeside atmosphere
  • Beautiful gardens and villas
  • Scenic ferry rides
  • Perfect combination of mountains and water
  • Charming towns full of cafés and restaurants

Best Places to Visit

Stresa

The most iconic town on the lake. Perfect for waterfront walks, boat tours, luxury atmosphere and romantic aperitivo.

Borromean Islands

A group of beautiful islands reachable by boat — Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori.

  • Palaces and historic gardens
  • Stunning lake views
  • Historic elegance

Insider Tip

The boat ride itself is one of the highlights. On sunny days, the reflections of the Alps on the lake are spectacular.

Perfect For

  • Full-day trip from Turin
  • Romantic couple experience
  • Relaxed luxury escape

Travel Time from Turin

Approx. 1h30–2h by car depending on destination

Official Website →

Lake 2

Lake Orta

The hidden gem

Why Tourists Love It

  • Relaxed and elegant atmosphere
  • Beautiful historic villages
  • Less crowded than Como or Garda
  • Perfect for slow travel and photography

Best Places to Visit

Orta San Giulio

One of the prettiest villages in Italy — narrow stone streets, small boutiques, lakeside cafés and historic atmosphere.

Isola San Giulio

A tiny island with a monastery located directly in front of Orta San Giulio. Accessible by small boat in just a few minutes.

Insider Tip

Lake Orta is ideal for visitors wanting a more authentic and less commercial experience compared to the more famous lakes.

Perfect For

  • Couples and photography lovers
  • Wine tasting in Northern Piemonte
  • Slow lunch by the lake

Travel Time from Turin

Approx. 1h30 by car

Official Website →

Lake 3

Lake Como

The world-famous luxury lake

Why Tourists Love It

  • Incredible mountain scenery
  • Elegant villages and villas
  • Luxury Italian atmosphere
  • Scenic boat experiences
  • Famous international bucket-list destination

Best Places to Visit

Como

The main city of the lake — perfect for the historic centre, shopping, funicular panoramic views and the lakeside promenade.

Bellagio

The most iconic village on the lake, known for luxury atmosphere, elegant streets, panoramic views and waterfront restaurants.

Varenna

A beautiful and more relaxed village with incredible scenery — less crowded than Bellagio.

Insider Tip

Traffic around Lake Como can become heavy on summer weekends. Early departures from Turin are strongly recommended.

Perfect For

  • Full-day premium experience
  • Couples and luxury travellers
  • Scenic boat tours

Travel Time from Turin

Approx. 2h30–3h depending on destination and traffic

Official Website →

Which Lake Should You Choose?

For First-Time Visitors

Lake Maggiore

The best balance between accessibility, beauty and variety of experiences.

For Romance & Authenticity

Lake Orta

Perfect for couples, photography and slow travel.

For Luxury & Iconic Scenery

Lake Como

Perfect for bucket-list experiences and premium travellers.

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