35+ Must-Visit Italian Lakes for Your 2025 Bucket List

When you think of Italy, your mind might drift to the romantic canals of Venice, the historic ruins of Rome, or the rolling hills of Tuscany. But nestled across the north and central regions of the country—and even tucked away in the south—are some of the most breathtaking lakes in the world, offering travelers an entirely different kind of Italian magic.

Top Italian Lakes to Visit in 2025 for Unforgettable Views

The Italian lakes aren’t just bodies of water—they’re living postcards, where alpine mountains meet crystal-clear reflections, colorful villages cling to lakesides, and sunsets melt into the water like a painting come to life. Whether you crave adventure, culture, history, or pure relaxation, these lakes deliver it all.

From the celebrity-loved villas of Lake Como to the tranquil trails around Lake Braies, the rustic charm of Lake Orta, and the volcanic serenity of Lake Bolsena, there’s a perfect lake in Italy for every kind of traveler. And the best part? Many of these gems remain hidden from the typical tourist routes, giving you a chance to experience authentic Italian beauty without the crowds.

The Iconic Italian Lakes You Can’t Miss

1. Lake Como (Lago di Como)

✨ Synonymous with luxury, Lake Como is dotted with opulent villas, romantic gardens, and charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna.

2. Lake Garda (Lago di Garda)

🏄 Italy’s largest lake is a playground for adventurers—windsurfing, hiking, and even theme parks await here!

3. Lake Maggiore

🛶 Stretching into Switzerland, this lake boasts the stunning Borromean Islands, botanical gardens, and picturesque lakeside towns.

4. Lake Lugano

🌲 Located between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, this serene lake is perfect for cross-border exploration into Switzerland.

5. Lake Iseo

🍷 Home to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe, and surrounded by wine country—it’s a peaceful alternative to the more famous lakes.

Hidden Gems – Lesser-Known Italian Lakes Worth Visiting

6. Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta)

⛪ A peaceful haven in Piedmont with the beautiful San Giulio Island. It’s a perfect blend of history and nature.

7. Lake Bolsena

🌋 Formed by a volcanic crater, this central Italian lake offers volcanic beaches, clean water, and charming lakeside towns.

8. Lake Bracciano

🚤 Just outside Rome, this quiet lake offers clean waters, ancient castles, and no motorboats—a peaceful spot for locals and tourists alike.

9. Lake Trasimeno

🌅 Located in Umbria, it’s Italy’s fourth-largest lake with sleepy fishing villages and stunning sunset views.

10. Lake Albano

🏰 A volcanic lake near Rome, bordered by Castel Gandolfo—the Pope’s summer residence. It’s scenic and spiritual.

Alpine Beauty – Northern Italian Lakes with Mountain Backdrops

11. Lake Braies (Lago di Braies)

📸 Possibly the most photogenic lake in Italy! Turquoise waters, wooden boats, and Dolomite peaks create a fairy-tale setting.

12. Lake Misurina

⛰️ Surrounded by jagged Dolomites, this lake offers alpine tranquility and therapeutic air for respiratory health.

13. Lake Dobbiaco

🎶 Known for its role in Gustav Mahler’s musical inspiration, this lake is serene, less crowded, and surrounded by forest trails.

14. Lake Molveno

🌄 Nestled under the Brenta Dolomites, this pristine alpine lake offers crystal-clear water and great swimming spots.

15. Lake Caldonazzo

🚣‍♀️ Loved by locals for water sports, this lake in Trentino is perfect for kayaking, windsurfing, or relaxing on the beach.

Lakes with Historic Towns & Romantic Vibes

16. Lake Vico

🏞️ Surrounded by woodlands and volcanic hills, this Lazio lake is perfect for birdwatching and peaceful picnics.

17. Lake Piediluco

🎭 Near Umbria’s famous Marmore Falls, this lake is known for rowing competitions and poetic landscapes.

18. Lake Idro

🎣 A quiet lake surrounded by charming villages, forests, and mountain paths—ideal for those wanting a more authentic Italian escape.

19. Lake Mergozzo

🌅 Close to Lake Maggiore, yet unspoiled and quiet. Perfect for a romantic getaway with minimal crowds.

20. Lake Corbara

🍇 Nestled among Umbrian vineyards, this man-made lake is great for wine tasting and countryside exploration.

Relaxation & Nature – Peaceful Italian Lakes for Wellness Travel

21. Lake Nemi

🍓 Famous for its wild strawberries and Roman archaeological sites, this lake is calm and culturally rich.

22. Lake Avigliana

🧘 Located in a nature park near Turin, these twin lakes are surrounded by wildlife and peaceful scenery.

23. Lake Santa Croce

🏄‍♂️ Windsurfers and kiteboarders love this breezy alpine lake in Veneto, while others enjoy nature trails and tranquility.

24. Lake Ledro

🌼 Tucked in Trentino, it’s ideal for families, camping, and exploring prehistoric lake dwellings.

25. Lake Lavarone

🪵 Surrounded by pine forests and meadows, this small alpine lake is ideal for swimming and unplugging from the digital world.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Lakes for Your Road Trip Adventure

26. Lake Cecita

🚙 Found in Calabria’s national parks, this tranquil spot is perfect for a detour into southern Italy’s green heart.

27. Lake Omodeo

⛵ Sardinia’s largest artificial lake, it’s quiet, scenic, and off most tourists’ radar.

28. Lake Campotosto

🛤️ In Abruzzo’s highlands, this lake sits at 1,300 meters and offers spectacular views, especially in autumn.

29. Lake Scanno

🫶 Known as the “Heart-Shaped Lake” of Abruzzo, it’s as romantic as it is photogenic.

30. Lake Matese

🥾 A nature-rich lake between Campania and Molise, surrounded by mountain peaks and hiking trails.

Instagram-Worthy Italian Lakes for Photography Lovers

31. Lake Carezza (Lago di Carezza)

🌈 Nicknamed “The Rainbow Lake” due to its vibrant, changing colors. A Dolomiti icon!

32. Lake Fusine

📷 A set of two glacial lakes near the Slovenian border with emerald waters and magical reflections.

33. Lake Valdurna

🧚‍♀️ A hidden gem in South Tyrol with rustic alpine vibes and forest surroundings.

34. Lake Vernago

🧊 This icy-blue lake is framed by glaciers and perfect for dramatic travel photography.

35. Lake Resia (Reschensee)

🔔 Famous for the submerged church tower that peeks out from the lake—an iconic and surreal photo opportunity!

Quick Travel Tips for Exploring the Italian Lakes

1. Visit off-season (April–June or September–October) for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

2. Rent a car if you want to explore multiple lakes in one trip—public transport may be limited.

3. Stay lakeside in towns like Bellagio, Orta San Giulio, or Malcesine for stunning sunrise views.

4. Pack water shoes and hiking gear for trails, pebble beaches, and lake dips.

5. Try local food specialties like lake fish, mountain cheeses, and regional wines.

Italy isn’t just about Rome, Venice, or Florence. The country’s lakes offer a completely different kind of magic—tranquil, scenic, and often overlooked by mass tourism.