Lake Maggiore, straddling the border of northern Italy and southern Switzerland, is the second-largest lake in Italy and one of the most scenically diverse. Surrounded by Alpine peaks and dotted with elegant towns, the lake has attracted visitors for centuries, including literary figures like Stendhal and Ernest Hemingway. The western shore is home to the Borromean Islands, a group of three small islands known for palaces, terraced gardens, and white peacocks that roam freely across manicured lawns.

Among the islands, Isola Bella is the most elaborate. The Borromeo family transformed it in the 17th century into a lavish residence complete with baroque architecture and cascading gardens that descend toward the water in ten formal levels. Just a short boat ride away, Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) offers a striking contrast with its narrow lanes, family-run fish restaurants, and year-round residents, making it the only one of the three with a permanent population.

The town of Stresa, located on the lake’s western side, has long served as a base for visitors. Once a favorite of European aristocrats, it still features grand 19th-century hotels and villas. From here, the Mottarone cable car takes visitors from lakeside to mountaintop in under 20 minutes. On clear days, the summit offers views of seven lakes and the Monte Rosa massif. Hiking trails and alpine meadows await at the top, along with small cafés serving polenta and locally produced cheeses.

On the eastern shore, the town of Luino is known for its bustling open-air market, which dates back to 1541 and takes place every Wednesday. Vendors sell everything from handmade leather goods to regional meats and cheeses. Further north, in the Swiss section of the lake, the town of Locarno hosts the annual Locarno Film Festival each August. The event transforms the town into an international cinema stage, with screenings held in the open-air Piazza Grande under the stars.