Ispra
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Latest page update: 9 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Ispra is situated in the Province of Varese, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 5,300 residents and is located a distance of 67 kilometres north west of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Ranco, Lake Monate, Santa Caterina del Sasso and Angera. |
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Ispra Overview
Ispra, located in the Lombardy region, is a charming town situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, Ispra provides a peaceful setting for those looking to relax and explore the stunning landscapes of the region. The town’s traditional character, with its historic buildings, lakeside location, and lush surroundings, makes it an ideal destination for visitors seeking both serenity and outdoor adventure.
Ispra is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the picturesque views of Lake Maggiore and the nearby hills. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Remigio, a quaint church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Ispra offers a range of hiking and cycling trails that lead through the surrounding countryside and forests, providing panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The village’s combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and peaceful lakeside setting makes it a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the wider Lombardy region.
Ispra is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the picturesque views of Lake Maggiore and the nearby hills. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Remigio, a quaint church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Ispra offers a range of hiking and cycling trails that lead through the surrounding countryside and forests, providing panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The village’s combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and peaceful lakeside setting makes it a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the wider Lombardy region.
Top Things to Do in Ispra
- Lakeside Promenade and Beaches: Ispra sits on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, with a pleasant lakeside promenade offering access to small pebble beaches and panoramic views across the water. The harbour area includes walking paths, benches, and cafés, creating a relaxed setting for lakeside strolls and summer swims.
- Old Kilns and Industrial Heritage Trail: The town is known for its preserved lime kilns, remnants of its 19th-century industrial past. These historic structures are part of a walking trail that leads through woods and along the lakeshore, combining local history with nature.
- Chiesa di San Martino: Located in the upper part of the town, this parish church features a neoclassical façade and bell tower. Inside are traditional altars and frescoes, and the church remains an important centre for community gatherings and religious services.
- Walking and Cycling in Parco del Golfo della Quassa: Just north of the town, this protected parkland includes forested trails, picnic areas, and quiet lakeside inlets. The area is part of a larger network of nature paths ideal for cycling, birdwatching, and exploring the wooded shoreline of Lake Maggiore.
- Day Trip to Angera: About 15 minutes away by car or bike, Angera offers the impressive Rocca Borromea, a lakeside promenade, and boat connections across Lake Maggiore. It provides cultural interest and additional visitor services easily combined with a stay in Ispra.
Comune di Ispra
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Province: Varese
Region: Lombardy Population: 5,312 (in 2024 - source) Size: 15 km² Elevation: 220 metres Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Ranco, Lake Monate, Santa Caterina del Sasso, Angera |
Where to Stay in Ispra - My Recommended Accommodation
- Hotel Europa Located directly on the lakefront near Ispra’s small harbour, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, many with balconies overlooking the water, and a restaurant with panoramic lake views. Guests appreciate the quiet setting, lakeside access, and proximity to walking paths along the shore. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Tana della Volpe Situated on a hillside above the town, around 10 minutes’ walk from the centre, this charming B&B features cosy rooms and a garden with views of the lake. Visitors enjoy the warm hospitality, homemade breakfast, and peaceful location surrounded by woodland. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Don Guanella Set in a historic lakeside villa surrounded by a park, this property offers simple rooms and private access to the lake. Guests value the unique setting, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to Ispra’s centre and ferry connections. €€ (mid-range)
- Relais Cascina al Campaccio Located just outside Ispra in a restored farmhouse, this guesthouse offers rustic-style rooms and apartments with wooden beams and countryside views. Visitors enjoy the tranquil rural setting, cycling paths nearby, and short drive to the lake. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Quassa Positioned near the Quassa Park and lakeside trails, this bed and breakfast features well-kept rooms, a large garden, and free parking. Guests appreciate the access to nature, friendly hosts, and walking distance to the beach at Quassa Bay. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Ispra - My Recommended Restaurants
- Ristorante San Gabriele: Located in the centre of Ispra, this refined restaurant offers a menu of Italian and Mediterranean dishes with careful presentation. Highlights include fresh lake fish, homemade pasta, and meat mains prepared with seasonal ingredients. The elegant interior and attentive service make it suitable for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria Vecchia Ispra: Also in Ispra, this family-run trattoria serves traditional Lombard cuisine in a warm and rustic setting. The menu features regional specialities such as risotto, braised meats, and polenta, with a good selection of local wines. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Pizzeria La Locanda: Situated near the lake, La Locanda offers both a pizzeria and full-service restaurant menu, including grilled meats, pasta dishes, and classic pizzas. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating in summer make it a convenient option for casual meals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria del Golfo: Found near the lakeside promenade, this osteria focuses on fresh seafood and lake fish, with dishes such as grilled lavarello and pasta with shellfish. The small dining room and lake views offer a quiet, pleasant setting for lunch or dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria da Antonio: Located just outside the town centre, this informal pizzeria is popular for its wide choice of toppings and consistent quality. It’s a good option for a quick, affordable dinner with takeaway also available. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Places close to Ispra
- Angera (approx. 10 km east of Ispra): Located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Angera is famous for the Rocca di Angera, a medieval castle that offers stunning views over the lake. The town is also home to a picturesque historic centre and a peaceful lakeside promenade, perfect for a relaxing day out. Visitors can also enjoy local cafes and explore the surrounding countryside.
- Luino (approx. 15 km south of Ispra): A lively town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Luino is known for its bustling weekly market, one of the largest in Italy. The town offers a vibrant historic centre, a beautiful lakeside promenade, and plenty of opportunities for boat trips across the lake. Luino is also close to the Parco della Val Grande, offering stunning natural landscapes for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Laveno-Mombello (approx. 20 km north of Ispra): A picturesque town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Laveno-Mombello is known for its stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take the Laveno Funicular for panoramic vistas or enjoy a scenic walk along the lakeside promenade. The town is also a popular base for hiking and boat trips.
- Sesto Calende (approx. 20 km southwest of Ispra): Situated on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Sesto Calende is a peaceful town with a charming historic centre and a lakeside promenade. The town is ideal for outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking, with access to the Parco del Ticino for nature walks. Visitors can also enjoy boat trips on the lake, exploring its scenic shores and nearby villages.
- Varese (approx. 30 km southeast of Ispra): A beautiful town surrounded by the Campo dei Fiori mountain range, Varese is known for its parks and historic villas, such as Villa Panza and Villa Toeplitz. The town offers a range of attractions, including scenic walking trails, charming streets filled with cafes and shops, and panoramic views from the surrounding hills.
How to get to Ispra
By Rail: Ispra does not have its own train station. The nearest station is Besozzo, located around 7 kilometres to the south-east, on the Gallarate–Luino railway line operated by Trenord. From Besozzo, regional trains run to Gallarate, where passengers can change for services to Milan. The total journey time from Milan to Besozzo is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Ispra can be reached from the station by taxi or local bus, though services may be limited.
By Road: Ispra is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It is approximately 70 kilometres north-west of Milan and about 20 kilometres west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69 provincial road. From Varese, the journey takes around 30 minutes. Public parking is available in the town, including near the lakefront and residential areas.
By Ferry: Ispra has a small pier, but it is not served by the main Navigazione Laghi ferry routes. The nearest active ferry terminals are in Laveno-Mombello and Angera, both located around 10 to 15 kilometres away by road. From these towns, passenger boats provide connections across Lake Maggiore to destinations such as Intra, Stresa, and the Borromean Islands. Vehicle ferry services operate between Laveno-Mombello and Intra on the western shore.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Ispra is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It is approximately 70 kilometres north-west of Milan and about 20 kilometres west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69 provincial road. From Varese, the journey takes around 30 minutes. Public parking is available in the town, including near the lakefront and residential areas.
By Ferry: Ispra has a small pier, but it is not served by the main Navigazione Laghi ferry routes. The nearest active ferry terminals are in Laveno-Mombello and Angera, both located around 10 to 15 kilometres away by road. From these towns, passenger boats provide connections across Lake Maggiore to destinations such as Intra, Stresa, and the Borromean Islands. Vehicle ferry services operate between Laveno-Mombello and Intra on the western shore.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located approximately 30 kilometres south of Ispra, the drive takes around 40 minutes. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport, and train connections are possible via Gallarate and Besozzo.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 90 kilometres south-east of Ispra, the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travellers can also take a train from Milan Centrale to Gallarate, then connect to Besozzo and continue by road.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Roughly 115 kilometres east of Ispra, the journey by car takes about 2 hours. Public transport involves train travel via Milan and Gallarate, followed by a connection to Besozzo and onward travel to Ispra.
