Lakeside villages to visit in spring: 10 ideal weekend escapes

Lakeside villages to visit in spring

Spring is the perfect season to explore lakeside villages: milder weather, blooming scenery and fewer tourists than in summer. Below are ten Italian lakeside villages suited for a restorative weekend, with practical tips on how to get there, what to do and one useful suggestion for each.

• Orta San Giulio (Lake Orta)
• Malcesine (Lake Garda)
• Monte Isola (Lake Iseo)
• Cannobio (Lake Maggiore)
• Castiglione del Lago (Lake Trasimeno)
• Bolsena (Lake Bolsena)
• Bellagio (Lake Como)
• Bracciano (Lake Bracciano)
• Nemi (Lake Nemi)
• Sulmona – Lake Scanno (Abruzzo)

Orta San Giulio

A compact and atmospheric village on Lake Orta, known for the small island of San Giulio visible from the shore. Perfect for leisurely walks and quiet moments by the water.

• How to get there: by car or train to Orta-Miasino, then a short local transfer.
• What to do: stroll the historic centre, take a boat to the island, enjoy lakeside promenades.
• Tip: book boats and popular restaurants in advance during holiday weekends.

Malcesine

Overlooking Lake Garda, Malcesine is dominated by the Scaligero Castle and offers exceptional views. Great for combining history with outdoor activities.

• How to get there: reachable by car, with train and bus connections; regular boat links to other Garda towns.
• What to do: visit the castle, wander medieval alleys, explore nearby trails on Monte Baldo.
• Tip: bring comfortable shoes for steps and hill paths in the centre.

Monte Isola

The largest lake island in Italy, in Lake Iseo: quiet lanes, green landscapes and very few cars. Excellent for a relaxing day of walking or cycling.

• How to get there: ferry services from lakeside towns; park on the mainland before boarding.
• What to do: circumnavigate the island by foot or bike, visit small harbours, enjoy Sebino views.
• Tip: carry a light jacket—lake breezes can be cool even in spring.

Cannobio

On Lake Maggiore, Cannobio combines an elegant promenade with a lively but intimate historic centre. Ideal for lakeside strolls and cafés with a view.

• How to get there: road and nearby rail links; easily reached on foot from parking or stops.
• What to do: walk the waterfront, browse local shops and weekend markets.
• Tip: choose accommodation with a lake view to enjoy sunrise or sunset over the water.

Castiglione del Lago

On Lake Trasimeno, this medieval village features a lakeside fortress and scenic vantage points—perfect for peaceful walks and photography.

• How to get there: easily accessible by car; regional bus services are available.
• What to do: visit the fortress, stroll the lake shore and taste regional cuisine.
• Tip: take nearby trails for elevated views of the lake.

Bolsena

Set on a volcanic lake, Bolsena offers historic sites and clear waters, plus boat trips to the small islands within the lake.

• How to get there: convenient from Viterbo by car or regional services.
• What to do: explore the Rocca Monaldeschi, take boat trips, and enjoy water activities when weather permits.
• Tip: check weather and boat schedules before planning excursions.

Bellagio

Known as the "pearl" of Lake Como: picturesque lanes, historic villas and manicured gardens. Ideal for those seeking elegant scenery and relaxed strolls.

• How to get there: road access and frequent boat connections from across the lake.
• What to do: visit Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni gardens, explore artisan shops.
• Tip: spring is perfect for enjoying the gardens in bloom with fewer crowds.

Bracciano

A short trip from Rome, Bracciano combines the imposing Castello Orsini-Odescalchi with a lake suitable for sailing and canoeing.

• How to get there: reachable by car or train from Rome, then a short local transfer.
• What to do: tour the castle, enjoy water sports, walk in the Bracciano-Martignano Natural Park.
• Tip: book castle tours ahead during busy weekends.

Nemi

A small village in the Castelli Romani overlooking a picturesque volcanic lake. Nemi is famed for its medieval centre and the museum of Roman ships.

• How to get there: easy drive from Rome; regional bus options exist.
• What to do: wander the village, visit the museum, taste local seasonal produce like wild strawberries.
• Tip: explore nearby woodland trails for an immersive nature experience.

Sulmona – Lake Scanno

The Scanno area, near Sulmona, features one of Abruzzo's most scenic mountain lakes. Perfect for nature lovers, historic towns and hiking opportunities.

• How to get there: by car or regional connections to Sulmona, then local transfer to the lake.
• What to do: lakeside walks, mountain hikes, and visiting Sulmona for its monuments and confectionery traditions.
• Tip: bring hiking shoes if you plan to explore the surrounding peaks.

Before you go: check seasonal openings for museums and boat services, reserve accommodation during holiday weekends, and plan travel times to make the most of a spring escape.