Italy is home to some of the most stunning lakes in the world; calm, crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic mountains, charming towns, and endless natural beauty.
Having lived in this beautiful country for 12 years, I’ve put together this list of the best lakes in Italy that you truly can’t miss.
From serene alpine escapes to sparkling summer hotspots, this guide covers everything, including the largest lakes in Italy that are perfect for swimming and boating. You’ll also find lesser-known lakes that offer peaceful hikes and quiet beaches.
I’ve also included a handy lakes of Italy map at the end of this guide so you can see exactly where each one is and start mapping out your itinerary. Let’s dive in!
You might also be interested in:
🇮🇹 22 Most Beautiful Places in Italy
⛲️ 24 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
🏟 36 Most Famous Landmarks in Italy
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🏞 16 Best Lakes in Italy for Your Bucket List
1. Lake Como
A northern Italian lake exuding elegance.
Situated in Italy’s Lombardy region, Lake Como is about as classy as lakes get. Just 40 km from Milan, there’s a reason why the rich like to come here: think fancy spots like Bellagio and jaw-droppingly gorgeous villas like Villa del Balbianello (yeah, the one from Casino Royale).
Cruising around Lake Como by boat is hands-down the best way to explore it. You can hop between cute villages at your own pace. I love Varenna for its colorful buildings, and Lecco is a must to experience the neoclassical architecture.
Everyone wants to stay in Bellagio when they come, but it won’t be friendly to your wallet. Consider staying in Lecco or Menaggio instead; they’re just as nice and way more affordable.
2. Lake Garda
Italy’s grandest lake with an indescribable allure.
Known for being Italy’s biggest lake, Lake Garda sits beneath the rising Italian Alps. Between the charming little villages like Sirmione and the crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise Lake Garda pulls in more than 25 million tourists annually.
A few days are essential to truly appreciate Lake Garda’s beauty. Check out the castle of Rocca Scaligera, which is surrounded by water on nearly all sides. After that, pay a visit to the Grotte di Catullo, an old set of Roman ruins that used to be a villa dating back to the 1st century.
You can’t come to Lake Garda without having a dip, either. Rather than forking out for a bed on a private shoreline, head to Jamaica Beach. It’s free, super scenic, and perfect for a swim with epic views.
3. Lake Maggiore
A lesser-known gem, home to several quaint islands.
If you’re looking for a quieter but just as beautiful alternative to Lake Como, put Lake Maggiore on your list. Nestled between Piedmont and Lombardy, the snowy Alps linger over Lake Maggiore, with Isola Bella peacefully sitting in the middle.
A former fishing village until 1632, the island of Isola Bella is the highlight of every Lake Maggiore itinerary. Here, you can explore the 20+ room Baroque-designed Palazzo Borromeo and the calm outdoor space of Giardino Barocco all’italiana.
The most straightforward way to get to Isola Bella is by taking a 10-minute ferry from Stresa.
From Laveno, there’s an excellent bucket lift that can bring you up to the top of Sasso del Ferro mountain. Although the ride is quite scary if you’re not used to heights, the stellar views of Lake Maggiore you’ll experience are unlike anything else on the planet.
4. Lake Orta
Piedmont’s best-kept secret without crowds.
Sitting west of Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta is one of Piedmont’s lesser-known lakes. While Lake Orta manages to fly under many tourists’ radars, it’s more of a hit with Italians seeking fewer crowds than the neighboring lakes.
When you arrive at Lake Orta, you’ll most likely start at Orta San Giulio, one of the main towns overlooking the lake. It has so much character, especially the sprawling Piazza Mario Motta, where you can watch the boats sail by.
For the adventurous, I recommend going on a hike to Monte Cerano. The mountain stands 1,702 meters high and is quite the climb. If you’d prefer to take things easy, the lake’s only island, Isola San Giulio, can be accessed by boat. It houses the Basilica di San Giulio, renowned for its medieval frescoes.
Read more: 22 Most Beautiful Places in Italy
5. Lake Iseo
Where Europe’s largest lake island rests.
Lake Iseo is Lombardy’s fourth-biggest lake, surrounded by 65 kilometers of paths leading to pretty towns such as Lovere and uniquely shaped natural wonders like the Zone Erosion Pyramids.
My three favorite towns on Lake Iseo are Lovere, Iseo, and Sarnico, all of which offer something a little different. Iseo is the main one, with a medieval charm; try visiting on Friday morning for the open-air market.
Sarnico has some great walks along the lake that are a delight. Lovere is the historic center, where the Basilica of Santa Maria is, which was built as a shrine to honor Our Lady of Graces.
Lake Iseo also has the biggest lake island in Europe, Monte Isola. Since visiting it is a very popular activity, the ferries fill up fast, especially on weekends, so try to get there early if you’re coming on a Saturday or Sunday.
6. Lake Sorapis
A dazzling Dolomite masterpiece with mesmerizing blue waters.
How does trekking to a hidden lake in the Dolomites sound? You’re going to fall in love with Lake Sorapis. Famed for its turquoise color and rugged mountain landscapes, you don’t want to miss this day hike.
You can only reach Lake Sorapis on foot. The easiest route is Passo Tre Croci, which takes roughly five hours out and back. Be warned that there are mountain ledges with high drops that you’ll have to walk across, so if you’re afraid of heights, you might want to sit this one out.
Following the grueling climb, you’ll stumble upon the wonder of Lake Sorapis. From the blinding blue tones of the water to the uniquely shaped rock formations, it’s a sight to behold. The main lookout is cool for photos, but walk around the lake as there are some other cracking vantage points.
7. Lake Limides
A mountain lake providing unmatched views of rock towers.
Another eye-catching lake in the Dolomites that deserves mention is Lake Limides. Small in size near the Falzarego Pass, hiking to Lake Limides might be easier than walking in some parts of the Dolomites, but its wild appeal sets it apart.
One of the best things about Lake Limides is the chance to take in the rock spires that make the Dolomites so special. You’ll be treated to unobstructed vistas of both Tofana di Roses and le Cinque Torri.
The hike to Lake Limides begins at Passo di Falzarego. From there, it should take a little over half an hour. Be aware that sometimes the lake dries out when it’s warm, so ask around to find out about the conditions before making the trip.
8. Lake Fedèra
A picturesque paradise surrounded by larch trees.
Sticking with the Dolomites, my next pick for the best lakes in Italy is Lake Fedèra. Encircled by larch trees and quite off-the-beaten-path, fall, in particular, is a special time to visit Lake Fedèra to see the leaves turn orange.
Lake Fedèra is a true slice of tranquility in the Dolomites, where the landscape mirrors beautifully from the water. Its level remains constant because it’s fed by underwater springs, although there’s a myth among some that it exists because of an evil dragon.
The 10 km hike to Lake Fedèra isn’t overly strenuous. The journey each way takes 90 minutes, and there’s a refugio that serves food, just in case you get hungry.
Read more: 60+ Most Enchanting Fairytale Destinations
9. Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
A lake so clear it looks like it’s straight out of a movie scene.
If there’s one reason to go to the Dolomites, it has to be Lake Braies. At 1,496 meters high, it looks like something from a movie, with its glassy, still water and the massive Seekofel peak towering in the background.
A lot of people hit up Lake Braies to do the 3.7 km loop trail that circles the lake. You can set off right by the Lake Braies Hotel, where there’s parking for a small fee. Regardless of how fit you are, it’s very doable. The full loop can be done in an hour and 20 minutes.
In the summer season, boat rides are available, but using your own isn’t allowed. The lake freezes over in winter, but parts of the trail will still be open for a walk.
10. Lake Misurina
An adventure through northern Italy’s Cadore region.
Lake Misurina offers a laid-back atmosphere in northern Italy’s Cadore region. It’s a true alpine lake hidden in the wilderness, but it has a few amenities around the area, like shops, bars, and hotels. So it doesn’t feel totally cut off compared to some of the previous options.
The main attraction is the looped walk around the lake that takes roughly half an hour. Along the way, you’ll spot some seriously stunning mountains, including Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Cadini.
Next to Lake Misurina is the Tre Cime Natural Park, which has plenty of hiking trails to get your boots dirty. Since you’ll prioritize Lake Misurina first, I suggest doing the short 4.8 km Sentiero Dei Camiosci, as it’s not too long. You’ll be rewarded with glimpses of the fabulous Fiscalina Valley.
11. Lake Carezza (Karersee)
A magical location famously called the “Lake of Rainbows”.
Dubbed the ‘Lake of Rainbows’, Lake Carezza only covers 300 meters. You might assume it gets its name from its dazzling colors (I did, too).
However, the name actually comes from a legend in which a warlock from Masarè failed to kidnap a woman. So he smashed a rainbow into pieces, and they fell into the lake, where they are said to have given it the color it has today.
Stroll through dense forests and be amazed by the lake’s distinctive shades, and since it’s pretty Insta-famous, try to pick out a spot to snap the perfect shot.
If you want Lake Carezza all to yourself, try visiting at sunrise. Because it’s a victim of its own popularity, it can get pretty crowded, especially during peak season.
12. Lake Landro (Dürrensee)
A serene retreat for a swim in Three Peaks Nature Park.
Lake Landro can be found at 1,406 meters in the southern part of Val di Landro, with its azure blue waters nestled within the Three Peaks Nature Park in the Dolomites.
Considering Lake Landro is right by the road, you might drive past it without even realizing it. Just park your car at the side and look for the path that leads to the beach. If it’s warm enough, you can even go for a quick swim.
Combine a visit to Lake Landro with a trip to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Viewpoint. All you’ve got to do is take trail six from the lake, and it won’t be long before you see the iconic Three Peaks.
Read more: 36 Famous Landmarks in Italy
13. Lake Ledro
A relaxing getaway in the heart of Trentino.
Have you had your fill of Lake Garda? Say hello to Lake Ledro. With four idyllic beaches and tons of water sports, Lake Ledro is way more tranquil than its popular neighbor.
Begin your trip at Lake Ledro by grabbing a bike rental from Pieve di Ledro and cruising to the rocky beach at Spiaggia Per Cani. It’s got a nice grassy spot to chill out, where you can rent a paddleboard to take out on the water.
The 8 km Nino Pernici Mountain Hut trail is a great option for walkers. It will lead you into Ledro Valley and take about 4 to 5 hours to complete. A lot of folks choose to stay at the refugio up top for a night surrounded by pure nature, high in the mountains.
14. Fusine Lakes
Two vivid alpine lakes on Italy’s border with Slovenia and Austria.
Right on Italy’s border with Slovenia and Austria, tucked away in the Julian Alps, the Fusine Lakes are made up of two glacial lakes. There’s the higher lake and the lower lake, but you can easily tick off both in one visit.
A bunch of trails connect the two lakes. You’ll end up walking around 4 kilometers to see both. Kick things off at the peaceful Lago Inferiore, the smaller of the two. It’s rocky in some spots, so watch your step! Afterward, head up to Lago Superiore, where the shimmering waters will leave you in awe.
Before hiking around Fusine Lakes, keep an eye on the weather. Lago Inferiore is pretty easy to explore, even if the conditions aren’t great, but Lago Superiore can be more unpredictable.
15. Lake Resia (Reschensee)
A lone bell tower stands silent in South Tyrol.
Make your way to the western corners of South Tyrol and sneak a peak of the church poking out from the 6-km man-made Lake Resia, that’s a little over two hours from Bolzano.
When Lake Resia was created, it flooded the lakeside settlements, and all that’s left now is the Campanile di Curon Venosta Vecchia (bell tower). The best spot to see it is Graun im Vinschgau, where the tower stands tall above the water. There are spaces to park next to it, so you can pull up and take photos.
Lake Resia is pretty amazing to see year-round, but if you can visit in winter, it adds that extra touch of magic. The snow covering the lake and the bell tower makes it feel like a total winter wonderland.
16. Blue Lake (Lago Blu)
A precious treasure in the Aosta Valley.
It only makes sense to wrap up this article on the best lakes of Italy with Blue Lake. Located in the Aosta Valley, Blue Lake is loved for its one-of-a-kind greenish-blue hue caused by the algae.
Blue Lake is very small; it’s the type of lake where people come to unwind and eat lunch after completing one of the nearby trails. There’s a lovely viewpoint at the lake’s southern end that offers a panorama from a height, which is worth a look at.
Parking can be tricky around Blue Lake, particularly in high season, as it sits at the side of a tiny road. If you’re stuck, drive further down the road to one of the few pull-in locations and then walk to the lake.
Read more: 24 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
🗺️ Map of Lakes in Italy to Visit
To help you plan your trip, here’s a map of all the stunning lakes mentioned in this guide. You can click here to see it in full on Google Maps.
I hope you felt inspired by these best lakes to visit in Italy!
For further reading on Italy, discover:
🇮🇹 22 Most Beautiful Places in Italy
⛲️ 24 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
🏟 36 Most Famous Landmarks in Italy
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