Baveno
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Latest page update: 16 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Baveno
Baveno has a wide choice of established hotels, supported by its lakeside promenade, ferry links to the Borromean Islands and its position between Stresa and Verbania. Most accommodation sits close to the waterfront or just above it, giving visitors easy access to boats, beaches, lakeside walks and the town’s small historic centre. Standards are generally high, with the best-reviewed hotels focusing on comfort, attentive service and facilities suited to longer stays on Lake Maggiore.
Among the top options, Grand Hotel Dino offers extensive facilities including pools, wellness areas and lake-view terraces, earning consistently strong guest feedback for comfort and service (€€€€). Hotel Splendid provides an elegant stay with a private beach, refined interiors and steady praise for its lakeside setting and hospitality (€€€€). For a smaller, more relaxed alternative, Hotel Rigoli delivers direct lake access, welcoming service and positive reviews for its peaceful atmosphere and waterfront position (€€€).
Among the top options, Grand Hotel Dino offers extensive facilities including pools, wellness areas and lake-view terraces, earning consistently strong guest feedback for comfort and service (€€€€). Hotel Splendid provides an elegant stay with a private beach, refined interiors and steady praise for its lakeside setting and hospitality (€€€€). For a smaller, more relaxed alternative, Hotel Rigoli delivers direct lake access, welcoming service and positive reviews for its peaceful atmosphere and waterfront position (€€€).
Where is
Where is Baveno?
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The lakeside town of Baveno is situated in the Verbano Cusio Ossola Province, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 5,000 residents and is located 143 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.
Nearby places of interest include Stresa, Feriolo, Villa Taranto, Verbania and Lake Mergozzo. |
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Comune di Baveno
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Province: Verbano Cusio Ossola
Region: Piedmont Population: 4,629 (in 2024 - source) Size: 17 km² Elevation: 205 metres Close by: Stresa, Feriolo, Villa Taranto, Verbania, Lake Mergozzo |
What People Ask About Baveno
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Discover Baveno
Baveno is a town in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, set on the western shore of Lake Maggiore opposite the Borromean Islands. Known historically for its pink granite quarries, which supplied stone for monuments such as the Milan Cathedral, the town combines industrial heritage with its role as a lakeside resort. Elegant villas and gardens stand alongside hotels and promenades that face the water.
Highlights include the Collegiate Church of Saints Gervasio and Protasio, with its Romanesque bell tower, and the chapels of the Via Crucis nearby. Baveno is also a departure point for boat trips to the Borromean Islands, making it a strategic base for exploring the lake. Road and rail links connect the town with Stresa, Verbania, and the wider Lake Maggiore area.
Highlights include the Collegiate Church of Saints Gervasio and Protasio, with its Romanesque bell tower, and the chapels of the Via Crucis nearby. Baveno is also a departure point for boat trips to the Borromean Islands, making it a strategic base for exploring the lake. Road and rail links connect the town with Stresa, Verbania, and the wider Lake Maggiore area.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Baveno
- Lakeside Promenade and Harbour form the focal point of the town, with flower-lined paths, benches, and views across Lake Maggiore to the Borromean Islands. The promenade includes ferry access, cafés, and seasonal markets. It is a popular spot for walking, photography, and boat excursions.
- Church of SS. Gervasio e Protasio and Baptistery are located just behind the lakeside, forming part of Baveno’s medieval religious complex. The church dates to the 11th century and includes frescoed interiors, while the adjacent baptistery features a Romanesque structure with a distinctive stone roof. Both buildings are open to visitors and still in use.
- Granite Quarries and Local Stonework have shaped Baveno’s identity for centuries, with pink granite from the area used in major buildings across Europe. While the original quarries are no longer active, remnants can be seen around the hills, and local museums and workshops highlight the town’s stonemasonry heritage.
- Villa Fedora and Public Park lie south of the centre and offer a quiet green space with lake access and shaded walking paths. The villa, once home to composer Umberto Giordano, is not open to the public, but the grounds are freely accessible. The park includes picnic areas and lake views.
- Boat Trips to the Borromean Islands depart regularly from the harbour, with connections to Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. Tickets can be purchased from the waterfront, and excursions range from short visits to full-day outings. The islands are among the most popular destinations on Lake Maggiore.
Tours and Activities
Baveno Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Baveno
- Ristorante La Ripa: Set directly on the lakefront, La Ripa offers a refined menu with fresh fish, handmade pasta, and local wines. Highlights include risotto with lake fish and lemon, grilled lavarello, and seasonal appetisers. The terrace has excellent views of the Borromean Islands. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Posta: Located in the heart of Baveno’s old town, this long-established restaurant features a mix of traditional Piedmontese and broader Italian dishes. Specialities include veal with tuna sauce, polenta with stewed meats, and homemade desserts. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Lido Beach Club & Restaurant: Found near the public beach area, this casual lakeside spot is ideal for a relaxed lunch or aperitivo. It offers pizzas, grilled dishes, and salads, with outdoor seating just steps from the water. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Amélie: Situated near the ferry terminal, this contemporary restaurant presents creative plates using regional ingredients. Expect dishes such as trout tartare, gnocchi with pumpkin and taleggio, and local cured meats. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Pizzeria Il Capriccio: A simple and popular option just outside the centre, Il Capriccio serves wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and generous portions at reasonable prices. It’s ideal for a casual evening meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Baveno Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Baveno
- Stresa (approx. 7 km south of Baveno): A popular town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Stresa is known for its stunning lakeside promenade and panoramic views of the Borromean Islands. The town features elegant villas, beautiful gardens, and the impressive Villa Pallavicino with its zoological park. Visitors can enjoy boat trips to the Borromean Islands, take a cable car up to the Mottarone mountain, or explore the town’s charming streets and cafes.
- Verbania (approx. 10 km north of Baveno): Located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Verbania is a lively town with beautiful lakeside views and renowned botanical gardens, such as the Villa Taranto Gardens, which are home to thousands of plant species. The town is also known for its historic centre, vibrant squares, and cultural attractions, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and those seeking a taste of local culture.
- Arona (approx. 15 km southeast of Baveno): Situated on the southern shores of Lake Maggiore, Arona offers a charming town centre with picturesque streets, historic landmarks, and a beautiful lakeside promenade. The Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, a massive statue overlooking the lake, is a key attraction. Visitors can enjoy boat trips on the lake, explore the local shops and restaurants, or take in the stunning views from the lakeside.
- Isola Bella (approx. 2 km south of Baveno): One of the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, Isola Bella is famous for its magnificent palace and terraced gardens. The Palazzo Borromeo, with its ornate rooms and impressive collections of art, is a highlight, while the gardens offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The island is a peaceful retreat, perfect for exploring its stunning gardens or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Omegna (approx. 20 km north of Baveno): A small town situated at the northern end of Lake Orta, Omegna is known for its scenic lake views, charming old town, and vibrant markets. The town’s lakeside promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk, and visitors can explore the Museo del Rubinetto, a museum dedicated to the history of taps and plumbing. Omegna is an ideal spot for those looking to experience the tranquillity and beauty of the nearby lakes.
Lake Maggiore Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Isola Bella
2. Villa Taranto
3. Isola Madre
4. Verbania
5. Stresa
6. Laveno-Mombello
7. Santa Caterina del Sasso
8. Isola dei Pescatori
9. Luino
10. Baveno
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit on Lake Maggiore
1. Isola Bella
2. Villa Taranto
3. Isola Madre
4. Verbania
5. Stresa
6. Laveno-Mombello
7. Santa Caterina del Sasso
8. Isola dei Pescatori
9. Luino
10. Baveno
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit on Lake Maggiore
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Baveno
By Rail: Baveno has its own train station on the Milan–Domodossola railway line, served by Trenitalia regional trains. Regular services connect the town with Milan, Arona, Stresa, and Domodossola. Journey times are approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to Milan, 5 minutes to Stresa, and 35 minutes to Domodossola. The station is located close to the town centre and within easy walking distance of the lakefront.
By Road: Baveno is located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region, about 90 kilometres north-west of Milan and 15 kilometres north of Arona. The town is accessible via the A26 motorway, with the Baveno exit located less than 10 minutes from the centre. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Public parking is available near the ferry terminal, lakefront, and town centre.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
By Road: Baveno is located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region, about 90 kilometres north-west of Milan and 15 kilometres north of Arona. The town is accessible via the A26 motorway, with the Baveno exit located less than 10 minutes from the centre. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Public parking is available near the ferry terminal, lakefront, and town centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Malpensa): Located approximately 60 kilometres south of Baveno, the drive takes about 50 minutes. It is the nearest airport and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Linate): Situated about 105 kilometres south, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Turin Airport (Aeroporto di Torino-Caselle): Located around 140 kilometres south-west of Baveno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Ferry Connections:
- Baveno is served by Navigazione Lago Maggiore, with regular passenger ferry services to the Borromean Islands, including Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.
- Ferries also connect Baveno with other lakeside towns such as Stresa, Verbania, and Intra.
- Journey times are about 10 minutes to Isola Bella, 15 minutes to Isola dei Pescatori, and 25 minutes to Verbania.
- The ferry terminal is located on the lakefront, near the town centre, and services run frequently during the tourist season, with reduced schedules in winter.
Private Transfers
Baveno Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to travel to or from Baveno, giving you a direct and comfortable service without the need to manage train changes or drive the lakeside roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth start or finish to your journey.
From Baveno, the closest hub is Milan Malpensa Airport, which can be reached in around 50 minutes, a distance of 55 km. Milan Linate Airport is about 1 hour 30 minutes away at 100 km, while Turin Caselle Airport can be reached in roughly 1 hour 40 minutes, covering 135 km. A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes 1 hour 30 minutes with a journey of 95 km. For longer connections, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is around 2 hours 15 minutes away, a distance of 175 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Baveno, the closest hub is Milan Malpensa Airport, which can be reached in around 50 minutes, a distance of 55 km. Milan Linate Airport is about 1 hour 30 minutes away at 100 km, while Turin Caselle Airport can be reached in roughly 1 hour 40 minutes, covering 135 km. A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes 1 hour 30 minutes with a journey of 95 km. For longer connections, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is around 2 hours 15 minutes away, a distance of 175 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
