Rooms with a View: The 20 Best Italian Lakeside Hotels

Breathtakingly beautiful, the Italian Lakes district is a stunning natural backdrop against which man has added some charming towns and villages.

Whether it's Lake Garda, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, Lake Iseo, or even Lake Lugano, which is technically in Switzerland, but has the same spectacular scenery, sunny climate, fantastic food and elegant architecture. Peaceful and glamorous, the Italian Lakes have it all. But one of the best things about holidaying here are the views. Especially the ones from the balcony of your room in one of the 20 best Italian lakeside hotels.

JohnPickenPhoto via Flickr

Our Gurus have sieved through their recommendations for the best places to stay on each of the lakes to come up with a definitive list of the best Italian lakeside hotels, so you can start to plan your trip!

The 20 Best Italian Lakeside Hotels

The Best Hotel Views on the Italian Lakes

If you want to be right on Lake Como, try the Villa d'Este, one of the more traditional five star hotels, the kind with grand state rooms, chandeliers, heavy fabrics, private balconies and private boats.

Villa dEste

Like the Villa d’Este, Villa Flori is right on the water’s edge at Cernobbio. As well as the unbeatable setting, Villa Flori has 52 contemporary chic rooms and suites, some with enormous balconies which hang out over the lake. Their restaurant offers alfresco dining from an Italian menu, plus there’s a lovely pool and spa.

The Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como in Lake Como’s tiny Blevio is a collection of lakeside villas with 73 magnificent rooms, a huge spa and two gourmet restaurants. The beautiful pool actually part floats on the lake itself and the subterranean spa is cut into the rock of the lakeside.

Sirmione’s Villa Cortine Palace is a grand, old fashioned villa hotel, with 54 rooms and an absolutely splendid setting on a spit of land jutting into Lake Garda. The rooms are grand, and Art Deco in style, with some beautiful frescoes and antiques, and there’s a private jetty, a lovely swimming pool and neoclassical landscaped gardens all around.

Villa Cortine Palace

Gardone Riviera’s Villa Fiordaliso is a grand 19th Century Liberty-style villa with beautiful, historic interiors and a gourmet restaurant. There are just five rooms, which are traditional but timeless, and all with beautiful views of the lake. There’s also Michelin starred dining and lovely gardens and terraces.

If you're looking for lakeside grandeur on Lake Maggiore and a central Stresa location, book a room in the traditionally luxurious Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees. The hotel fronts onto the lake, a wonderful white facade with rows of little balconies. It oozes elegance and sophistication and also boasts great facilities including spa and gastronomic restaurant with lake views.

Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees

The Best Places to Stay in the Italian Lakes Region for Foodies

The Hotel Verbano is on one of Lake Maggiore’s islands, and is a beautiful restaurant with 12 charming rooms with romantic terraces for soaking up the astounding views.

Hotel Verbano

If you're here for the views one of the best places to stay on Lake Orta is the Villa Crespi. This wonderfully grand villa is an exciting place to approach, but when you arrive you'll probably only have eyes for the views from the lovely terraces. The restaurant has two Michelin stars, so this is also a must for foodies.

Another top foodie destination on Lake Orta - and this time a bit friendlier on the wallet - is the Hotel Il Giardinetto. This restaurant with 59 rooms is right on the water. In fact its sun decks and terraces actually hang over the lake. With rooms starting from £70 per night and a gourmet menu, this is also incredibly good value.

Il Giardiinetto

The Most Romantic Italian Lakeside Hotels

The Villa Feltrinelli, in Lake Garda’s Gargnano, is an aristocratic villa conversion, with 21 rooms boasting beautifully restored interiors with antiques, beautiful fabrics and paintings. There’s also a Michelin starred restaurant. The perfect honeymoon hotel for anyone who can afford it.

Villa Feltrinelli

Directly lakeside, the Locanda San Vigilio in Garda is an elegant, 14 room hotel owned and run by an Italian count! It’s been a hotel for 500 years and is immaculately decorated with antiques and beautiful objets. The hotel even has it’s own Emporium where you can buy beautiful things.

The Relais Regina Teodolinda, in Lake Como’s Laglio, has gardens which spread right down to the water’s edge. There are just six suites, which have a relaxed, almost rustic charm with all the modern conveniences of course.

Also in Laglio, the Relais Villa Vittoria is a wonderfully romantic hotel, also right on the edge of the lake. As well as stunning views, this hotel has 11 delicately sumptuous rooms, an excellent restaurant, and peaceful terraces overlooking the lake.

Relais Villa Vittoria

The Best Traditional Italian Lakeside Hotels

Bellagio’s opulent Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is an elegant grand dame, with all the trappings of old fashioned luxury. Think doric columns, beautiful antiques, frescoed ceilings, grand sun terraces, spectacular views of Lake Como - of course - and a Michelin starred restaurant. They also have a private boat.

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

Or there’s the equally grand, but not quite as lavish, Grand Hotel Tremezzo with 89 elegant rooms right on the water’s edge. Five stars worth of beautifully understated interiors plus generous sun terraces, an excellent restaurant and spa and parklands surrounding the hotel. Plus, one of the pools actually floats on the lake!

Grand Hotel Tremezzo

The Bellevue San Lorenzo on Lake Garda in Malcesine, is a charming Belle Epoque villa turned 52 room hotel. As well as being surrounded by beautiful grounds and having lovely lake views, the villa has an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa.

The Best Italian Lakeside Hotels for Families

The Hotel Laurin is a stunning hotel with 30 rooms and suites, right on the shores of Lake Garda in Salò. Converted from an elegant early 20th Century villa, guests can expect parquet floods, frescoes and Art Nouveau furniture. There’s also a lovely pool in shady gardens and an excellent restaurant.

Hotel Laurin

The Albergo Milano in Lake Como’s Varenna is a charming hotel in an enchanting lakeside setting. There are a collection of 14 rooms, triples and apartments, all with whitewashed walls and private balconies. There’s also a lovely restaurant.

Also right on the water in Salò, the Hotel Bellerive is a mid-sized hotel with 46 large, stylish rooms plus an outdoor pool, a fantastic Italian concept restaurant, and sailing and golfing opportunities nearby.

Hotel Bellerive

Beautifully positioned right on Lake Garda at Gardone Riviera, Bella Riva has 23 contemporary rooms and suites, an excellent restaurant and bar and a very nice pool. And the hotel has great watersports facilities.

The Best Value Italian Lakeside Hotels

Owned by the same family for four generations, the Albergo Olivedo is a gorgeous ten room townhouse hotel right by Lake Como at Varenna. The decor is traditional, with stone floors, pastel walls and private balconies. Family friendly and laid back, the Albergo Olivedo also has a lovely little Italian restaurant. Rooms start from around £90 per night.

Albergo Olivedo

Or there’s the Hotel Catullo in postcard perfect Sirmione, a great value hotel with 56 rooms starting from around £100 per night. There are lovely terraces right on the edge of the lake, a private jetty with direct lake access, plus there’s a great pool. It’s also very family friendly.

Lake Garda’s Gardesana, in the picturesque fishing village of Torri del Benaco, has 34 simple, comfortable rooms, great views and excellent food. It’s also wonderful value, with rooms starting from under £100 per night, and it’s quite romantic.

Gardesana

Still not sure which of our Guru’s recommendations for the 20 best Italian Lakeside hotels might be perfect for you?

The 20 Best Italian Lakeside Hotels

  • Villa d'Este Cernobbio 152 rooms from AU$1125

    Garden  -  Set amid 25 acres of park including manicured gardens which feature magnificent fountains, grand terraces, and trimmed topiary
    Foodies  -  The restaurant is a smart affair (there's a dress code). It served impeccible Italian fine-dining
    Active Holiday  -  There's plenty to keep everyone busy here from trekking to SUP or tennis
    Elegant  -  Complete with glittering chandeliers and traditional art works
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Tablet

    Romantic lakeside opulence without compromise. Almost regal bedrooms, suites, and villas have rich chintzy fabrics, chandeliers and private balconies. Spectacular lake views, excellent restaurant, pool and spa, and private boats. Magnificently special. See More

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  • Villa Flori Cernobbio 53 rooms from AU$354

    Cycling  -  Bike storage is provided and guests can either take an easy amble around the lake or head into the mountains
    Elegant  -  Beautifully mixing original stuccoes, floral frescoes and wooden floors alongside chic contemporary touches
    Foodies  -  Ristorante Raimondi offers excellent Italian al fresco dining
    Romantic  -  A fairytale setting and rooms to match!
    SpaGardenViewsParking

    An unbeatable setting on the water's edge of Lake Como. A beautiful hotel with fabulous facilities. Contemporary chic rooms and suites, some with enormous balconies overhanging the lake. Al fresco dining, delicious Italian cuisine and spa. La Dolce Vita! See More

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  • Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como Blevio 73 rooms from AU$1141

    Elegant  -  A grand 19th century villa decorated with that signiture Asian style of the Mandarin Oriental group
    Families  -  Interconnecting rooms make this a great choice for those travelling with children
    Total relaxation  -  With a glorious spa and quiet location this is a place to come and truly unwind
    Hotel boats for hire  -  Take a cruise across the lake on one of the property's boats
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels

    A five-star luxury spa hotel on Lake Como. Sprawling villas house magnificent rooms, a huge spa, and two gourmet restaurants. The floating swimming pool extends into the lake. A great choice for total pampering and relaxation. See More

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  • Villa Cortine Palace Sirmione 54 rooms from AU$722

    Total relaxation  -  Allow yourself to be transported to a by gone era when palaces were home and servants tended to your every need.
    Honeymoons  -  A lovers paradise with private couples dining, indulgent suites and private balconies overlooking the lake.
    Great walks  -  Wander the huge five acre gardens that surround the property, with elegant landscaping and wonderful statues.
    Tennis  -  Be sure to bring your racket and check out the clay tennis court on site.
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Grand and charmingly old-fashioned villa hotel with a splendid setting in pretty Sirmione. Lovely lakeside gardens, grand 30s style bedrooms, frescos and antiques. Private swimming jetty and lovely pool. Super romantic, if you like historic charm. See More

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  • Villa Fiordaliso 25083 Gardone Riviera 5 rooms from AU$326

    Sights nearby  -  Vittoriale degli italiani the architecturally fascinating hillside estate in the town is only a 15 minute walk away.
    Great walks  -  Plenty of scenic walking routes on the property grounds and surrounding countryside.
    Sailing  -  Rent a boat and head out on the lake, the perfect way to explore the shore.
    Views  -  Stunning views over Lake Garda
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Fodors

    Very romantic and grand late 19th century, Liberty-style villa with historic interiors and gourmet food. Timeless, traditional rooms with antiques, lakeside views, and lovely gardens and terrace. Intimate and refined. See More

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  • Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées Stresa Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Lake Maggiore 179 rooms from AU$408

    Romantic Break
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Spa breaks
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor and Outdoor Pools
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    Luxurious lakeside opulence in a Five Star Grand hotel. A beautiful setting, sumptuous rooms and suites, delicious food, spa and plenty to do on the lake. A romantic spot, family friendly too. See More

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  • Villa Crespi Orta San Giulio Novara, Lake Orta 14 rooms from AU$408

    Foodies  -  The restaurant has two michelin stars
    Romantic Break
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Restaurant  -  With two michelin stars
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

    A glorious period villa with a fantastic restaurant and gorgeous gardens. Romantic bedrooms and suites have four poster beds, chandeliers, walnut floors and huge marble bathrooms. Stunning views over the lake from outdoor terraces. Very romantic, very good food. See More

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  • Villa Feltrinelli Gargnano 21 rooms from AU$1549

    Foodies  -  The elegant restaurant serves up superlative Italian cuisine in an undeniably romantic setting & has two Michelin stars
    Romantic Break  -  The ultimate treat for yourself and a loved one
    Great walks  -  Plenty of scenic walking routes nearby
    Restaurant  -  Two Michelin starred restaurant
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Fodors

    Ultimate luxury lakeside hotel in an historic house. Like staying in a private home, full of aristocratic heritage, with restored interiors and antiques, beautiful fabrics and paintings. Gourmet dining, a perfect honeymoon escape for those that can afford it. See More

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  • Locanda San Vigilio Garda 14 rooms from AU$440

    Writing a novel  -  This enchanting place has been inspiration for many great minds, from Churchill to Napoleon and Laurence Olivier
    Honeymoons  -  Private balconies overlooking the lake, palatial fourposters and romantic walks through fragrant gardens.
    Local markets  -  The hotel has its own Emporium where you can buy prints of drawings by Venetian artists, painted ceramics and fabrics.
    Tennis  -  Tennis club di Garna is 4 km from the property and equippment can be rented on site.
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    Elegant and intimate lakeside hotel, full of character, owned and run by an Italian count. A hotel for 500 years, the property is right on the waterside in a charming location, full of antiques and objets. A very special and relaxed place to stay. See More

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  • Hotel Verbano Stresa Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Lake Maggiore 12 rooms from AU$245

    Views  -  All the rooms have stunning views over Lake Maggiore
    Romantic Break
    Foodies
    Honeymoons
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, CN Traveller

    Special restaurant with rooms set on an island of Lake Maggiore. Excellent local cuisine from romantic terraces overlooking the lake. Lovely bedrooms and living areas in creams, with brick fireplace, wooden beams, white washed walls, and private balconies. Ideal for a romantic break or a wedding. See More

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  • Relais Villa Vittoria Laglio 11 rooms from AU$342

    Weddings  -  Receptions and intimate marriages are regularly held here and can cater for up to 68 seated guests
    Total relaxation  -  Spend days lounging in the infinity pool overlooking the lake and mountains or unwind in the spa
    Local exploring  -  Just a short paddle from the village of Laglio
    Views  -  Breathtaking views over Lake Como
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, CN Traveller

    Utterly romantic hotel on the edge of Lake Como. Spectacular views, delicately sumptuous rooms, excellent restaurant and terraces, and plenty to do on the lake. Honeymooners would be in heaven! See More

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  • Grand Hotel Tremezzo Tremezzo 89 rooms from AU$978

    Spa breaks  -  T-spa specialises in anti-stress and rebalancing treatments, all custom-designed with ESPA
    Outstanding location  -  Set right on Lake Como and commanding spectacular views, this property is hard to beat
    Foodies  -  Dine in the superb La Terrazza which serves traditional gourmet Italian fare
    Views  -  Wonderful views of Bellagio and the Grigne mountains
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection

    Five Star Luxury from a Grand Hotel on the water's edge of Lake Como. Elegant interiors are understated, rather than overly lavish. Glossy parquet floors, brightly coloured walls, a mixture of contemporary and Baroque furniture, spectacular views from terraces. Excellent restaurant, spa, parklands. See More

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  • Bellevue San Lorenzo Malcesine 52 rooms from AU$323

    Total relaxation  -  This chic hideway is perfect spot to recharge, with Hammam, sauna and sleepy gardens overlooking the lake.
    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by beautiful gardens, sloping down to the shores of Lake Garda.
    Views  -  Wonderful views of Lake Garda.
    Great walks  -  Walk along the promenade to the picturesque Val di Sogno, a superb spot for lake bathing and water sports.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Popular belle epoque villa with lovely grounds overlooking the lake. Five Italian Villas with simple yet stylish rooms. Highlights include a restaurant with a view, outdoor pool, fitness centre and small relaxation spa. Good value for a stunning spot. See More

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  • Hotel Laurin Salò 30 rooms from AU$231

    Foodies  -  Garda Food and Wine Trail & Strada dei Vini e Sapori del Garda: visits to about 100 producers (wineries, oil mills, cheeses).
    Families  -  Swimming and Lake Garda to explore by boat. Many child friendly sights in the area, such as movie studio and safari park
    Sights nearby  -  Salò, Gardone Riviera, Toscolano Maderno, Gargnano and Limone del Garda
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    A stunning hotel on the shore of Lake Garda. Rooms and suites in a 20th century villa are elegant, with parquet floors and all mod cons. Frescoes and art nouveau furniture. Excellent authentic cuisine, pool and shady gardens. An idyllic choice, and perfect for a family holiday. See More

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  • Albergo Milano Varenna 14 rooms from AU$245

    Charming  -  Pick this property for a tradional stay, the oldest part of the building dates back to the 17th century
    Families  -  With 3 apartments sleeping up to 5 people, this is a great choice for families or small groups
    Owner managed  -  The friendly owners, Bettina and Egidio, often greet their guests personally
    Lakeside  -  Take the short stroll down to the lake and go for a swim
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Charming lakeside hotel. An enchanting setting on Lake Como, various rooms, triples and apartments, with white washed walls and private balconies. Very good restaurant and spectacular views from the terrace. A great choice for families, groups and romantic breaks. See More

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  • Hotel Bellerive, Salo Salò (Lake Garda) 46 rooms from AU$246

    Foodies  -  Restaurant '100km' is a concept by Fred Plotkin, using products sourced within this distance. Olive oil & wine tours and tasting
    Families  -  Apartments are big enough for the whole family, with kitchens to make picnics. Boat trips on Lake Garda, swimming and cycling
    Sights nearby  -  Brescia and Verona, between Venice and Milan, between the Dolomites and the sea
    Sailing  -  Minutes from the hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel

    A delightful hotel overlooking Lake Garda. Large stylish rooms and apartments, many with views. Outdoor pool, and fantastic Italian concept cuisine. Sailing, golf and opera nearby. Gourmet, family friendly, all in a romantic location. See More

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  • Bella Riva Gardone Riviera 23 rooms from AU$310

    Families  -  Baby cots are provided or extra beds for children plus babysitting services are available for parents in need of a break!
    Romantic Break  -  Pick a room with lake views enjoyed even from your bed, the ultimate romantic setting
    Lakeside  -  Direct access on to Lake Garda
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    Dreamily positioned with views over Lake Garda. Contemporary, but still classic, hotel with fabulous rooms and suites, excellent restaurant, bar and pool. Fantastic watersports and activities. A great choice for families, an outdoor holiday, or a romantic break. See More

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  • Albergo Olivedo Varenna 10 rooms from AU$251

    Local exploring  -  Well located just 5 minutes from Varenna's pretty centre made up of winding cobbled streets
    Elegant  -  Traditional interiors see large sash windows, parquet flooring and antiques
    Sailing  -  Set on the Varenna jetty, this is a great base to explore the lake by boat
    Owner managed  -  Owned by the same family for four generations
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Gorgeous townhouse hotel on Lake Como. Charmingly traditional bedrooms have stone floors, pastel walls, and private balconies. Magnificent views from every room and authentic Italian food. Laid back, family friendly. See More

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  • Gardesana Torri del Benaco 34 rooms from AU$228

    Local exploring  -  Offering a great location overlooking the lake and with views of the castle, this is the perfect spot to explore from
    Foodies  -  Regional dishes are served on the terrace restaurant
    Fishing  -  Fishing excursions nearby
    Sights nearby  -  Verona 40 minutes drive
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Excellent food and comfortable, simple rooms in Garda's showpiece fishing village. Perfectly positioned in a charming little port, it's a very romantic spot for a good value break. Homely and ideal for local exploring. See More

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  • Hotel Il Giardinetto Pettenasco Novara, Lake Orta 59 rooms from AU$210

    Romantic Break
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Restaurant  -  Creative regional cuisine
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews

    Fantastic restaurant with charming rooms on the water of Lake Orta. Gourmet food on romantic terraces, sun decks overhanging the lake, pastel rooms with wonderful views over the lake. A romantic choice for an authentic Italian break. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Monday, 26th July 2021