Angera​

Latest page update: 9 April 2025
By: Dion Protani
The lakeside town of Angera is situated in the Province of Varese, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 5,000 residents and is located a distance of 65 kilometres north west of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.

​Nearby places of interest include Ranco, Ispra, Cadrezzate, Lake Monate and Sesto Calende.
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Angera Overview
Angera, located in the Lombardy region, is a picturesque town set on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its historic charm and scenic beauty, Angera provides a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and explore the area’s rich cultural heritage. The town’s traditional buildings, narrow streets, and lakeside location make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy both history and nature.
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Angera is famous for its Castello di Angera, a 12th-century castle that stands as one of the town’s most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding landscape. The town is also home to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, a church with notable architectural and historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Angera offers several hiking and cycling trails that lead into the surrounding hills, providing breathtaking views of the lake and the nearby mountains. Angera’s combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and peaceful lakeside setting makes it a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Lombardy region.
Top Things to Do in Angera
  • Rocca Borromea di Angera: This medieval fortress dominates the town from a limestone outcrop above Lake Maggiore. It houses the Museum of Dolls and Toys, with a vast collection spanning centuries, as well as frescoed halls, panoramic terraces, and peaceful gardens overlooking the lake. The fortress is well preserved and a highlight of the region.
  • Lakeside Promenade and Harbour: Angera’s promenade runs along the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, offering views across to Arona and the Rocca di Arona. With tree-lined paths, benches, cafés, and a small harbour, the lakefront is ideal for strolling, relaxing, and taking in the mountain scenery.
  • Historic Centre and Civic Buildings: The old town includes narrow cobbled streets, historic houses, and civic buildings such as the Palazzo del Pretorio, now used for exhibitions and cultural events. The atmosphere is calm and traditional, with several small squares and local shops.
  • Nature Trails and Parco della Quassa: To the north of town, the Parco della Quassa is a protected natural area with footpaths through woodland and lakeside meadows. It's part of a wider network of trails suitable for walking and cycling, offering peaceful routes close to the water and surrounding countryside.
  • Day Trip to Arona: Just across the lake by ferry or a short drive via the nearby bridge, Arona offers lively shopping streets, lakeside restaurants, and the towering Statue of San Carlo Borromeo. It provides a vibrant contrast to Angera and is easily reached for a half-day visit.
Comune di Angera
Province: Varese

Region: Lombardy

Population: ​5,356​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 17 km²

Elevation: 193 metres

Travel facilities: ferry port

​​Close by: Ranco, Ispra, Cadrezzate, Lake Monate, Sesto Calende​
Where to Stay in Angera - My Recommended Accommodation
  • Hotel Ponti&Ponti Located in the centre of Angera just steps from the lakefront, this boutique hotel offers modern, stylish rooms with some balconies overlooking Lake Maggiore. Guests appreciate the attention to detail, friendly service, and proximity to the ferry terminal and restaurants. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Pavone Situated near the Rocca Borromea and a short walk from the historic centre, this hotel features spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and private parking. Visitors enjoy the convenient location for exploring Angera’s castle and lakeside promenade. €€ (mid-range)
  • Cascina Armonia Located in the countryside just outside Angera, this restored farmhouse offers rustic-style rooms in a peaceful rural setting. Guests value the natural surroundings, homegrown produce, and the short drive into the town centre and lakefront. €€ (mid-range)
  • Casa Vacanze Il Glicine A self-catering apartment in the centre of Angera, offering a fully equipped kitchen, terrace, and air conditioning. Guests appreciate the central location, short walk to the beach and castle, and convenience for longer stays. €€ (mid-range)
  • Agriturismo Il Vecchio Castagno Situated around 10 minutes’ drive from Angera in the hills above the lake, this agriturismo provides simple rooms and traditional meals in a rural environment. Visitors enjoy the relaxed pace, family-run atmosphere, and views of the lake and surrounding countryside. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Angera - My Recommended Restaurants
  • Ristorante Vecchia Angera: Located in the historic centre of Angera, this refined restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine with elegant presentation. The menu features dishes such as risotto, lake fish, and carefully prepared meat mains. The setting is sophisticated yet welcoming, making it ideal for a quiet evening or special occasion. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Osteria Melograno: Also in Angera, this family-run osteria serves seasonal Italian dishes in a rustic and informal setting. The menu includes fresh pasta, grilled meats, and local cheeses, all accompanied by a small but well-chosen wine list. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Pizzeria da Gennaro: Situated near the lakefront, Da Gennaro offers a wide range of wood-fired pizzas alongside Italian classics. With its casual atmosphere and outdoor seating in warmer months, it’s a popular spot for families and informal meals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Hotel Ponti: Found within a hotel close to the lakeside promenade, this restaurant offers a varied menu of Italian and international dishes. With views towards the lake and a quiet dining room, it’s suitable for relaxed lunches or dinners. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Caffè della Sera: Positioned near the main square, this café-restaurant serves light meals, panini, and snacks throughout the day. It’s a good option for a casual lunch or coffee break while exploring the town. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

Angera  Gallery

Places  close  to  Angera

  • Sesto Calende (approx. 15 km north of Angera): A small town located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Sesto Calende offers a scenic lakeside promenade, charming streets, and several outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the nearby Parco del Ticino for nature walks or enjoy boat trips on the lake. The town’s historic centre is home to local cafes and shops, perfect for a relaxing day out.
  • Ispra (approx. 20 km northwest of Angera): Situated along the shores of Lake Maggiore, Ispra is a peaceful town known for its beautiful lakeside views and natural beauty. The town is ideal for a quiet retreat and offers opportunities for walks, cycling, and enjoying the surrounding landscapes. Parco Naturale della Campo dei Fiori, located nearby, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Laveno-Mombello (approx. 25 km north of Angera): A town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Laveno-Mombello is famous for its Laveno Funicular, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The town also has a vibrant lakeside promenade, charming cafes, and access to various outdoor activities, such as hiking and boat trips on the lake.
  • Arona (approx. 15 km south of Angera): Located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Arona is a popular town known for its beautiful lakeside views, the imposing San Carlo Borromeo Statue, and the Rocca di Arona castle. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the lakeside, explore the historic centre, or take a boat trip to admire the stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Varese (approx. 30 km southeast of Angera): A charming town set among the hills of the Campo dei Fiori mountain range, Varese is known for its beautiful parks and villas, including the Villa Panza and Villa Toeplitz. The town offers several scenic walking trails, and visitors can explore its historic centre, full of charming streets, shops, and cafes.

How  to  get  to  Angera

By Rail: Angera does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Sesto Calende, located about 7 kilometres to the south, with regular Trenord regional services on the Milan–Domodossola line. The journey from Milan takes approximately 50 minutes. From Sesto Calende, Angera can be reached by local bus or taxi. An alternative option is Arona station, across the lake in Piedmont, which is accessible by ferry from Angera.

By Road: Angera is located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It is approximately 65 kilometres north-west of Milan and around 25 kilometres west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the A8 and A26 motorways. There are several public car parks available in and around the historic centre, including near the lakefront and the Rocca di Angera.

By Ferry: Angera is served by Navigazione Laghi ferry services on Lake Maggiore. Passenger boats connect Angera to Arona, directly across the lake, with regular crossings throughout the day. Additional seasonal services provide links to other towns on the lake, including Stresa, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori. These ferries are for foot passengers only; vehicle ferry services do not operate from Angera.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located approximately 25 kilometres south-west of Angera, the drive takes about 35 minutes. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport for direct transfer.
  • Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 80 kilometres south-east of Angera, the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travellers can also take a train from Milan Centrale to Sesto Calende, then continue to Angera by road.
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): About 120 kilometres east of Angera, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Public transport involves travel to Milan by bus or train, then continuing by rail to Sesto Calende and by road to Angera.

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