Iseo
Iseo
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Latest page update: 1 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Iseo is situated in the Province of Brescia, on the shores of the lake which shares its name: Lake Iseo. It has a population of around 9,000 residents and is located a distance of 88 kilometres east of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
The town's highlights include the Castello Oldofredi and the 6th century church: Pieve di Sant'Andrea. |
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What People Ask About Iseo
Where is Iseo located?
Does Iseo have a train station?
Can you take a ferry to Monte Isola from Iseo?
What is Iseo known for?
Is Iseo a good place to stay?
Related links
The prominent town on Lake Iseo
Sitting at the southern end of the s-shaped Lake Iseo, the eponymous town is the cultural and transport hub of the area. History is woven into the fabric of this pretty town which was sacked by the troops of Frederick Barbarossa in the twelfth century.
The delightful medieval buildings around its central square Piazza Garibaldi provide an attractive setting for the casual day-trippers that come to enjoy the lake, particularly at the weekends.
Perhaps one of the best features of Iseo and of Lake Iseo in general is that it doesn't attract the tourist hordes of Lake Garda to its east or Lake Como to the west. It's quietly nestled in between the two and provides a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere.
The delightful medieval buildings around its central square Piazza Garibaldi provide an attractive setting for the casual day-trippers that come to enjoy the lake, particularly at the weekends.
Perhaps one of the best features of Iseo and of Lake Iseo in general is that it doesn't attract the tourist hordes of Lake Garda to its east or Lake Como to the west. It's quietly nestled in between the two and provides a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere.
Down to the lake
Oldofredi Castle is a popular venue for weddings and is also the home to a museum and library. The busiest part of town is Piazza Garibaldi and it's said that the statue of Risorgimento hero Giuseppe Garibaldi in the square named after him is the first such statue in Italy.
From the piazza it's just a short walk down to the shoreline and the pretty pier. This is a popular spot for a stroll around the lakeside promenades or from which to take one of the ferries across the lake.
From the piazza it's just a short walk down to the shoreline and the pretty pier. This is a popular spot for a stroll around the lakeside promenades or from which to take one of the ferries across the lake.
Must-see and do in Iseo:
- Lungolago di Iseo: The lakeside promenade in Iseo stretches along the shore with wide views over Lake Iseo and the surrounding mountains. Lined with cafés, restaurants, and benches, it’s ideal for a relaxing stroll or enjoying a meal outdoors. The promenade also connects to small parks and marinas, offering peaceful spots to watch boats and ferries come and go.
- Piazza Garibaldi and Historic Centre: The heart of the old town is Piazza Garibaldi, a lively square surrounded by arcades, shops, and historic buildings. From here, narrow streets lead to the Church of Sant’Andrea and a variety of artisan boutiques. The centre retains its medieval street layout and is pleasant to explore on foot.
- Castello Oldofredi: Located slightly uphill from the centre, this medieval fortress dates back to the 11th century. The Castello Oldofredi now houses the town’s public library and cultural events, and visitors can explore its courtyard and admire views over the rooftops and lake from the upper levels.
- Boat Trips to Monte Isola: Ferries run frequently from Iseo to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe. Visitors can explore its quiet villages, walk or cycle around its perimeter, and visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola at the island’s highest point. The crossing from Iseo takes about 20 minutes, making it one of the town’s most popular activities.
- Day Trip to Franciacorta Wine Region: Just a short drive from Iseo, the Franciacorta region is famous for its high-quality sparkling wines. Visitors can tour local wineries, enjoy tastings, and learn about traditional production methods. Many estates offer guided visits, and the scenic countryside adds to the appeal of this easy and rewarding excursion.
Comune di Iseo
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Province: Brescia
Region: Lombardy Population: 8,962 (in 2024 - source) Size: 25 km² Elevation: 186 metres Highlights: Castello Oldofredi, Pieve Sant'Andrea, Piazza Garibaldi Close by: Monte Isola, Brescia, Bergamo, San Pellegrino Terme |
My recommended accommodation options for Iseo:
- Iseolago Hotel Located just outside the historic centre and near the Torbiere del Sebino nature reserve, this four-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, wellness facilities, and access to a private beach club on the lake. Guests appreciate the peaceful surroundings, professional service, and proximity to both nature and town. €€€ (high-end)
- Ambra Hotel Positioned directly on the main square facing the lake, this family-run hotel offers rooms with balconies overlooking either Piazza Garibaldi or Lake Iseo, plus a café and restaurant on the ground floor. Visitors enjoy the central location, lake views, and easy access to ferries. €€ (mid-range)
- Relais I Due Roccoli Situated in the hills above Iseo, this elegant country house hotel features refined rooms with lake or garden views, a panoramic restaurant, and peaceful wooded grounds. Guests value the quiet hillside setting, romantic atmosphere, and high standard of service. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Arianna A small hotel a short walk from the lake and train station, offering clean, comfortable rooms, a garden, and friendly service. Visitors enjoy the convenience, good value, and welcoming staff, particularly for shorter stays or exploring the area by train. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Veranda – Iseo Located in a quiet residential area near the lakefront, this bed and breakfast features bright, modern rooms and breakfast served on a terrace. Guests appreciate the relaxing environment, kind hosts, and walking distance to the centre of Iseo. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Iseo:
- Ristorante Trattoria Al Porto: Located near the lakeside, Ristorante Trattoria Al Porto offers a variety of traditional Italian and Lombardian dishes, with a strong focus on fresh seafood and local meats. The outdoor seating area provides stunning views of Lake Iseo, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Gabbiano: Found near the town centre, Ristorante Il Gabbiano specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh fish and pasta. The restaurant offers a cosy atmosphere and excellent service, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Dispensa del Porto: Situated close to the lakeside, La Dispensa del Porto offers a refined menu with traditional Italian dishes, using locally sourced ingredients. The rustic decor and tranquil setting near the lake create a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Caffè de l’Orologio: Located in the heart of Iseo, Caffè de l’Orologio offers a variety of Italian fare, with a focus on homemade pasta and fresh local ingredients. The warm interior and friendly service provide a welcoming environment for a casual meal or coffee. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Lido 84: Situated just outside the town, Ristorante Lido 84 offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on Italian and Lombardian cuisine. The location by the lake provides a scenic backdrop for enjoying a well-curated menu of local and seasonal dishes. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
Iseo Gallery
Close to Iseo
Favourite destinations around Lake Iseo include the little island of Monte Isola which is also listed as one of the borghi più belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages of Italy).
The island is towards the lower half of the lake, close to Iseo, while at the northern end is another popular lakeside town and fellow borgo bello: Lovere. There are another half a dozen or so smaller towns around the lake with the pick of the bunch being Sarnico and Sulzano.
Each of the towns and the island listed above can be reached via the Lake Iseo ferry system but there are further treasures to be discovered if you have a car. At the northern end of the lake, beyond Lovere is the pretty medieval town of Clusone while north-east of the lake is the area where you can find the Rock Drawings of Valcamonica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The mountainous landscapes to the north of Lake Iseo are in contrast to the flatter area of vineyards to the south. From Iseo to the city of Brescia is a distance of around 15 kilometres with the area in between providing the dazzling landscapes of the Franciacorta vineyard region.
Iseo is connected to Brescia by public transport with bus and train options available. The trains take just under half an hour to reach Brescia to the south east.
Heading north by train from Iseo the first stop is Sulzano (6 minutes) followed by two further lakeside towns: Sale Marasino (10 minutes) and Marone (14 minutes). The northbound train eventually reaches the mountain town of Edolo with a total journey time of an hour and 34 minutes. Iseo's train station is just a 5 minute walk (500 metres) from Piazza Garibaldi.
The island is towards the lower half of the lake, close to Iseo, while at the northern end is another popular lakeside town and fellow borgo bello: Lovere. There are another half a dozen or so smaller towns around the lake with the pick of the bunch being Sarnico and Sulzano.
Each of the towns and the island listed above can be reached via the Lake Iseo ferry system but there are further treasures to be discovered if you have a car. At the northern end of the lake, beyond Lovere is the pretty medieval town of Clusone while north-east of the lake is the area where you can find the Rock Drawings of Valcamonica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The mountainous landscapes to the north of Lake Iseo are in contrast to the flatter area of vineyards to the south. From Iseo to the city of Brescia is a distance of around 15 kilometres with the area in between providing the dazzling landscapes of the Franciacorta vineyard region.
Iseo is connected to Brescia by public transport with bus and train options available. The trains take just under half an hour to reach Brescia to the south east.
Heading north by train from Iseo the first stop is Sulzano (6 minutes) followed by two further lakeside towns: Sale Marasino (10 minutes) and Marone (14 minutes). The northbound train eventually reaches the mountain town of Edolo with a total journey time of an hour and 34 minutes. Iseo's train station is just a 5 minute walk (500 metres) from Piazza Garibaldi.
Iseo Travel
By Rail: Iseo has its own railway station on the Brescia–Iseo–Edolo line. Regional trains operated by Trenord connect Brescia to Iseo with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. From Milan, travelers can take a train to Brescia and transfer to the regional service to Iseo, with a total journey time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The station is centrally located, providing easy access to the town centre.
By Road: Iseo is approximately 90 km east of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Rovato and following signs for Iseo. From Brescia, the journey is about 20 km, taking approximately 30 minutes via the SP510 road.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Iseo is approximately 90 km east of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Rovato and following signs for Iseo. From Brescia, the journey is about 20 km, taking approximately 30 minutes via the SP510 road.
Nearest International Airports:
- Orio al Serio International Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Located about 40 km west of Iseo, the drive takes approximately 40 minutes via the A4 motorway. From the airport, travelers can take a bus to Bergamo railway station, then a train to Brescia and transfer to the regional train to Iseo.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 85 km southwest of Iseo, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes via the A4 motorway. Train services are available from Milan to Brescia, with onward connections to Iseo.
