Italian Lakes Travel Guide

Image courtesy of Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Imagine an escape where rugged mountain vistas meet shimmering blue waters, creating an irresistible blend of luxury and tranquility—that’s the Italian Lakes region. Perfect for travelers who crave both natural beauty and upscale comforts, this stunning area invites you to unwind beside mineral-blue glacial lakes, explore historic villas, and lose yourself in charming lakeside villages.

Each lake offers its own unique charm. Head north on Lake Garda to Riva del Garda, where biking trails, hiking routes, and easy access to the Dolomites make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. To the south, Sirmione is ideal for families and features top-tier resort options, offering a blend of relaxation and family-friendly activities. Lake Como, meanwhile, is the picture of romance, with iconic wooden boats, chic lakeside hotels, and breathtaking vistas that feel plucked from a storybook.

The Italian Lakes region is best visited between late spring and early fall when comfortable weather lets you savor outdoor cafes, take part in water sports, and fully enjoy the serene atmosphere. And with Milan just a short distance away, it’s simple to combine a lakeside getaway with the excitement of a world-class city. Ready to make this dream destination yours? Let's design an Italian Lakes itinerary that’s tailored just for you, blending lakeside luxury with the unforgettable charm of Italy’s most scenic retreats.

Essential Travel Information

• Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, though smaller shops and cafes may prefer cash.

• Language: Italian is predominant, with German and English also spoken around Lake Garda.

• Closest Airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Venice Marco Polo (VCE).

• Transportation: Italy’s train system offers an excellent way to travel between cities and lake towns. Many hotels provide transfers from train stations, but summer visitors should expect increased traffic around the lakes.

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring, early summer, and early fall. During May, September, and October, temperatures are comfortable, lake views are pristine, and it’s less crowded than peak summer.

• Ideal Stay Length: For a balanced experience, spend about seven days between Lake Como and Lake Garda, with an optional extension to Milan or Venice.

Where to Stay: Top Luxury Accommodations

Whether it’s the allure of Como’s classical villas or Garda’s lakefront hotels, the Italian lakes have an array of luxurious options.

Milan

Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Milan

Here’s a peek into some of Milan’s finest stays, complete with exclusive perks when you book through VBS Travel:

• Portrait Milano

  Step into a slice of history at Portrait Milano, a luxurious gem nestled in a 16th-century former seminary right in Milan’s fashion heart, and owned by the Ferragamo family. The hotel’s refined Italian design and a stunning colonnaded courtyard make for an unforgettable experience. Book with VBS Travel for perks like a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out when available.

• Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano

  For those craving opulence, Palazzo Parigi is a grand escape that artfully blends French and Italian styles. Located in the vibrant Brera district, this palatial retreat boasts a breathtaking 17,000-square-foot spa and a tranquil private garden oasis. With VBS Travel, enjoy a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out when possible.

• Mandarin Oriental, Milan

  Housed in four 18th-century buildings near La Scala, the Mandarin Oriental offers sophisticated elegance with a two-star Michelin dining experience and a serene Asian-inspired spa. Book with VBS Travel to unlock exclusive Fan Club benefits, including a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, and complimentary room upgrades when available.

• Grand Hotel et de Milan

  Immerse yourself in Milanese history at the Grand Hotel et de Milan, a charming 19th-century hotel adorned with period furnishings and modern amenities just steps from the iconic Duomo. Through VBS Travel, you’ll enjoy Leading Hotels of the World perks like daily breakfast and extended check-in/out when possible.

• Casa Baglioni – Milan

  An art lover’s paradise, Casa Baglioni in Brera celebrates Italian 1960s design with a Michelin-starred restaurant and a curated contemporary art collection. Book with VBS Travel to enjoy Leading Hotels of the World privileges, including daily breakfast and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Lake Como

Image courtesy of Villa D’este Como

Here’s a look at some of Lake Como’s most luxurious lakeside stays, with exclusive VBS Travel perks:

• Villa d’Este

  A former 16th-century royal residence in Cernobbio, Villa d’Este is the epitome of elegance with its 25 acres of lush gardens, a floating pool on Lake Como, and rooms adorned with antique furnishings and rich silk fabrics. Book with VBS Travel and enjoy a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out when available.

• Grand Hotel Tremezzo

  This iconic Art Nouveau palace offers breathtaking views of Bellagio and the Grigne mountains, along with three pools (including one floating on the lake) and beautifully preserved historic details like frescoed walls and period furnishings. With VBS Travel, take advantage of a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, upgrades, and extended check-in/out where possible.

• Il Sereno

  A striking contemporary masterpiece by designer Patricia Urquiola, il Sereno features minimalist lakefront suites, a stunning 60-foot infinity pool overlooking the lake, and lush vertical gardens. Book through VBS Travel to enjoy perks like a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, complimentary upgrades, and extended check-in/out when possible.

• Passalacqua

  Nestled in terraced gardens with just 24 suites, Passalacqua is a boutique 18th-century villa with private docks, offering an intimate retreat perfect for relaxation. Reserve with VBS Travel to receive a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out as available.

Lake Garda

Image courtesy of Grand Hotel Fasano

These exclusive Lake Garda retreats, paired with VBS Travel perks, offer the perfect blend of historic charm, world-class wellness, and breathtaking scenery:

• Grand Hotel Fasano

  Originally a 19th-century hunting lodge for the Austrian imperial family, this elegant lakefront hotel on Lake Garda’s western shore features a luxurious spa, private beach, and lush botanical gardens. When you book with VBS Travel, enjoy a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out as available.

• Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda

  Set high above Gargnano with panoramic views, Lefay Resort & Spa is an eco-conscious haven with an expansive wellness spa and serene infinity pools. Reserve through VBS Travel to enjoy perks such as a $100 spa credit, a complimentary lunch or dinner for two, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/out where possible.

• Lido Palace

  A Belle Époque gem in Riva del Garda, Lido Palace seamlessly blends Art Nouveau architecture with modern design, offering a two-story spa, fine lakefront dining, and unforgettable views. Book with VBS Travel to receive daily breakfast and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Dining and Signature Dishes 

Image courtesy of il Sereno Hotel

Enjoy dishes that highlight the lakes’ abundant seafood and regional specialties, from Risotto al Pesce Persico (lake perch risotto) on Lake Como to Tortellini di Valeggio with butter and sage near Lake Garda. Don’t miss the chance to pair these delicacies with local wines, especially if you take a vineyard tour around Lake Garda.

Must-Do Activities by the Lakes

Image courtesy of Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Milan

• Shop in the Fashion Capital: Visit Milan’s high-end boutiques in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or stroll the designer shops.

• Iconic Sights: Marvel at the Duomo di Milano’s architecture, and make sure to book ahead to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

Lake Como

• Scenic Boat Tours: A private boat ride is a must for viewing the lake’s villas, like the stunning Villa Balbianello.

• Explore Como’s Villages: Wander through picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna or explore Como’s bustling center, known for its silk shops and charming cafes.

Lake Garda

• Mount Baldo Gondola Ride: Catch the panoramic gondola for incredible views and a scenic lunch.

• Adventure Sports: From kite surfing to e-biking through vineyards, Lake Garda caters to thrill-seekers with a wide range of outdoor activities.

Culture and History

Image courtesy of Grand Hotel Tremezzo

With roots in Roman history, the Italian Lake District boasts cultural landmarks. The Duomo di Milano’s Gothic spires are a marvel, and the Sforza Castle offers insight into Milan’s medieval past. Along the lakes, Villa Carlotta and the Vittoriale degli Italiani celebrate the opulence of historical Italy with art, architecture, and lush gardens.

Packing Tips

The lakes region calls for a blend of relaxed elegance and comfortable attire. Pack light jackets or scarves for cooler evenings by the lake and dressier outfits for gourmet dinners. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring historic villages.

With options for personalized private tours, customized itineraries, and exclusive insider access, make this iconic region your own. Whether you’re drawn to Lake Como’s serene shores or Lake Garda’s adventurous spirit, the Italian lakes offer a variety of experiences for every traveler.

Ready to discover the lakes? Contact me to plan a bespoke Italian escape that captures the very best of this unforgettable destination.