Lake Trasimeno
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Latest page update: 7 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Lake Trasimeno
Lake Trasimeno has a broad and well-established hotel offering, supported by its lakeside towns, cycle paths, historic centres and ferry connections to the islands. The best-reviewed properties focus on comfort, outdoor space, lake views and convenient access to walking routes and waterfront promenades, particularly in Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno.
In Castiglione del Lago, Hotel La Torre is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its central position, comfortable rooms and welcoming atmosphere within walking distance of the historic streets and lakefront (€€€). In Passignano sul Trasimeno, Hotel Villa Paradiso offers a classic lakeside stay with a pool, spacious gardens and reliable guest feedback for comfort and relaxation (€€€). For those seeking a quieter setting nearby, Borgo Torale above the lake provides a more rural experience with panoramic views, characterful rooms and a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding Umbrian countryside (€€€).
es. Guests value the peaceful hilltop setting, the views over the lake, and the attentive service. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
In Castiglione del Lago, Hotel La Torre is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its central position, comfortable rooms and welcoming atmosphere within walking distance of the historic streets and lakefront (€€€). In Passignano sul Trasimeno, Hotel Villa Paradiso offers a classic lakeside stay with a pool, spacious gardens and reliable guest feedback for comfort and relaxation (€€€). For those seeking a quieter setting nearby, Borgo Torale above the lake provides a more rural experience with panoramic views, characterful rooms and a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding Umbrian countryside (€€€).
es. Guests value the peaceful hilltop setting, the views over the lake, and the attentive service. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
Where is
Where is Lake Trasimeno?
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Situated in the Province of Perugia, Lake Trasimeno covers a total area of 128 square kilometres and stands at an elevation of 258 metres above sea level. It's 6 metres deep at its deepest point.
Places of interest in and around the lake include the lake islands of Isola Maggiore and Isola Polvese, as well as the lakeside towns of Tuoro sul Trasimeno, Passignano and Castiglione del Lago. |
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Lago Trasimeno
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Province: Perugia
Region: Umbria Surface area: 128 km² Maximum depth: 6 metres Surface elevation: 258 metres Lakeside towns: Passignano sul Trasimeno, Castiglione del Lago Recommended stay: Hotel Boutique Castiglione del Lago |
What People Ask About Lake Trasimeno
Is Lake Trasimeno worth visiting?
What are the best towns to visit around the lake?
Can you swim in Lake Trasimeno?
Are there any islands on Lake Trasimeno?
How do you get to Lake Trasimeno?
Related links
Discover
Discover Lake Trasimeno
Italy's fourth largest lake
Lake Trasimeno is the fourth largest of Italy's lakes and perhaps the first one on the list that you might not have heard of. The illustrious trio of Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Como are well-established on the Italian tourism map and can boast some outstanding resorts.
The three famous lakes mentioned above have a number of similarities, particularly in terms of their dimensions and the type of landscape around them. Lake Trasimeno is quite different however: it has a much more open feel to it and its waters seem a lot calmer by comparison.
We can also see a difference in the type of resort around the edges of Lake Trasimeno: those of the larger lakes such as Sirmione, Bellagio or Stresa are known to millions and overflowing with accommodation options while Umbria's favourite body of water has a smaller collection of much more low-key towns.
The three famous lakes mentioned above have a number of similarities, particularly in terms of their dimensions and the type of landscape around them. Lake Trasimeno is quite different however: it has a much more open feel to it and its waters seem a lot calmer by comparison.
We can also see a difference in the type of resort around the edges of Lake Trasimeno: those of the larger lakes such as Sirmione, Bellagio or Stresa are known to millions and overflowing with accommodation options while Umbria's favourite body of water has a smaller collection of much more low-key towns.
Lakeside resorts
Passignano sul Trasimeno and Castiglione del Lago are the largest towns around the lake and supplemented by a handful of smaller resorts such as San Feliciano and Tuoro sul Trasimeno, the latter of whose town centre lies a good distance inland of its beach.
Aside from the towns around the Lake, there are three islands in its centre which can be visited. Isola Polvese is the largest of the three: It measures 70 hectares and offers a mixture of small lakeside beaches and a forested interior, crowned by the Monastero di San Secondo.
The second largest island is called Isola Maggiore (which might sound odd given that maggiore means "great" or "major", but it gets its name only from being larger than its near neighbour Isola Minore, the smallest of the three. Isola Maggiore has a little borgo/village and some nice shaded places to walk around, while the main sight on the least-visited Isola Minore is the Chiesa del Gesù.
Aside from the towns around the Lake, there are three islands in its centre which can be visited. Isola Polvese is the largest of the three: It measures 70 hectares and offers a mixture of small lakeside beaches and a forested interior, crowned by the Monastero di San Secondo.
The second largest island is called Isola Maggiore (which might sound odd given that maggiore means "great" or "major", but it gets its name only from being larger than its near neighbour Isola Minore, the smallest of the three. Isola Maggiore has a little borgo/village and some nice shaded places to walk around, while the main sight on the least-visited Isola Minore is the Chiesa del Gesù.
Visiting the islands
It's possible to visit Isola Polvese and Isola Maggiore all year round by ferry with different timetables for summer and winter. Isola Minore can only be visited by a private tour which it's possible to organise from the beach at Tuoro.
Isola Polvese can only be reached from San Feliciano while Isola Maggiore can be accessed from any of Tuoro, Passignano or Castiglione del Lago. Full timetables for both summer and winter are displayed further down this page. The timetable details a place called Tuoro Navaccia which is in fact the lakeside beach area of Tuoro.
Isola Polvese can only be reached from San Feliciano while Isola Maggiore can be accessed from any of Tuoro, Passignano or Castiglione del Lago. Full timetables for both summer and winter are displayed further down this page. The timetable details a place called Tuoro Navaccia which is in fact the lakeside beach area of Tuoro.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Lake Trasimeno
- Castiglione del Lago’s Fortified Walls offer visitors the chance to walk along well-preserved medieval ramparts overlooking Lake Trasimeno. The historic centre features narrow streets, traditional buildings, and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.
- Rocca di Passignano is a hilltop fortress near the lakeshore, providing scenic vistas across vineyards and olive groves. Visitors can explore the fortress grounds and learn about the region’s medieval history through exhibitions and events.
- Lakeside Beaches and Parks around Trasimeno offer places to swim, picnic, and relax by the water. Many beaches have family-friendly facilities and opportunities for water sports such as sailing and kayaking.
- Cycling and Walking Trails encircle the lake and pass through rural landscapes dotted with small villages, vineyards, and olive groves. These routes offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area.
- Guided boat tours and fishing excursions on Lake Trasimeno provide insights into the lake’s ecology, history, and local traditions. Tours often include visits to the lake’s islands, swimming stops, and tastings of regional food and wine, offering a rich cultural and natural experience.
Tours and Activities
Lake Trasimeno Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Lake Trasimeno
- Ristorante Il Molo: Located on the lakefront in Passignano sul Trasimeno, this restaurant is known for its fresh fish and Umbrian specialities. With views over the water and outdoor seating, it offers dishes such as carpaccio di persico and tagliatelle al tartufo nero (mid-range €€).
- La Taverna di San Francesco: Set in a quiet square in the centre of Castiglione del Lago, this small and welcoming restaurant offers homemade pasta, seasonal vegetables, and traditional secondi. The menu includes both meat and freshwater fish, with options for local wines by the glass (mid-range €€).
- Ristorante L'Acquario: Found in Panicale, a short drive from the lake, this elegant restaurant occupies a historic building with an intimate dining room and a shaded outdoor terrace. It focuses on local ingredients, including Chianina beef, porcini mushrooms, and handmade pasta (high-end €€€).
- Trattoria del Pescatore: Situated near the harbour in San Feliciano, this casual spot specialises in lake fish such as tegamaccio (a traditional Umbrian fish stew) and grilled eel. The atmosphere is informal, with tables inside and a few outside by the water (mid-range €€).
- Ristorante Da Settimio: In the hilltop village of Tuoro sul Trasimeno, this long-running family restaurant offers Umbrian cooking with generous portions and lake views from the terrace. House-made pasta and game dishes are among the highlights, alongside simple desserts like crostata (mid-range €€).
Photo Gallery
Lake Trasimeno Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Lake Trasimeno
- Perugia (approx. 30 km east of Lake Trasimeno): A historic city perched on a hill, Perugia is known for its medieval architecture, the impressive Piazza IV Novembre, and the Rocca Paolina. Visitors can wander through its narrow streets, explore the local museums, or enjoy its vibrant student atmosphere.
- Assisi (approx. 50 km southeast of Lake Trasimeno): Famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi is a town with a deep religious significance, including the stunning Basilica di San Francesco. Visitors can explore its charming streets, visit the Eremo delle Carceri, or take in views of the surrounding Umbrian hills.
- Cortona (approx. 30 km south of Lake Trasimeno): A small, picturesque hill town, Cortona is known for its medieval charm and stunning views of Lake Trasimeno. Visitors can stroll along the ancient streets, visit the Diocesan Museum, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings from the town's high vantage points.
- Siena (approx. 100 km southwest of Lake Trasimeno): One of Tuscany’s most famous cities, Siena is known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Duomo di Siena. Visitors can explore the medieval centre, climb the Torre del Mangia, or enjoy the traditional cuisine in one of the city’s many trattorias.
- Florence (approx. 130 km northeast of Lake Trasimeno): The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is home to iconic art and architecture, including the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore, and Ponte Vecchio. Visitors can explore its world-renowned museums, stroll along the Arno River, or take in the beautiful views from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Umbria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
Lake Trasimeno Islands
Isola Polvese
Isola Polvese, Lake Trasimeno
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Isola Maggiore
Isola Maggiore, Lake Trasimeno
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How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Lake Trasimeno
By Rail: Lake Trasimeno is served by the Terontola–Foligno railway line, with stations at Castiglione del Lago, Passignano sul Trasimeno, Magione, and Terontola-Cortona. Trenitalia regional trains link the lake with Perugia and Florence. The journey from Perugia to Passignano sul Trasimeno takes around 30 minutes, while trains from Florence to Terontola-Cortona take about 1 hour 20 minutes. Most stations are located within walking distance of the lakefronts and town centres.
By Road: Lake Trasimeno is situated in northern Umbria, close to the border with Tuscany. The drive from Perugia takes about 30 minutes via the RA6 and SS75 roads. From Florence, the journey is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Public parking is available in all major towns around the lake, including Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
Public ferry routes: Regular ferries connect the mainland towns of Passignano sul Trasimeno, Tuoro sul Trasimeno, and San Feliciano with the islands of Isola Maggiore and Isola Polvese. Services are managed by local operators and run more frequently during the warmer months.
Isola Maggiore: Accessible from both Passignano and Tuoro, this is the only inhabited island on the lake. The crossing takes between 10 and 20 minutes depending on departure point.
Isola Polvese: Departures to Isola Polvese are mainly from San Feliciano. The island is uninhabited and popular for day trips, with the crossing lasting around 10–15 minutes.
By Road: Lake Trasimeno is situated in northern Umbria, close to the border with Tuscany. The drive from Perugia takes about 30 minutes via the RA6 and SS75 roads. From Florence, the journey is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Public parking is available in all major towns around the lake, including Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno.
Nearest International Airports:
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: The closest airport to the lake, about 45 kilometres east, with a drive of roughly 40 minutes. It offers a limited number of domestic and European flights.
- Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci): Located around 140 kilometres northwest of the lake, the drive takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Rome Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci): About 210 kilometres south, with a driving time of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
Ferry Connections:
Public ferry routes: Regular ferries connect the mainland towns of Passignano sul Trasimeno, Tuoro sul Trasimeno, and San Feliciano with the islands of Isola Maggiore and Isola Polvese. Services are managed by local operators and run more frequently during the warmer months.
Isola Maggiore: Accessible from both Passignano and Tuoro, this is the only inhabited island on the lake. The crossing takes between 10 and 20 minutes depending on departure point.
Isola Polvese: Departures to Isola Polvese are mainly from San Feliciano. The island is uninhabited and popular for day trips, with the crossing lasting around 10–15 minutes.
Lake Trasimeno Ferry Timetables
Lake Trasimeno Summer 2021 Timetables
Lake Trasimeno Winter Timetables 2021-2022
Private Transfers
Lake Trasimeno Private Transfers
A private transfer is the simplest and most comfortable way to travel to Lake Trasimeno or continue your journey from the lake to nearby towns and airports. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven directly by a professional local driver—no connections, no delays, and no need to hire a car.
From Perugia Airport, the journey to Passignano sul Trasimeno or Castiglione del Lago takes around 40 to 45 minutes by car (approx. 35 kilometres). Travelling from Florence Airport takes around 1 hour 40 minutes (approx. 135 kilometres), while Rome Fiumicino Airport can be reached in approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (around 190 kilometres), depending on traffic and destination. Transfers are also available between Lake Trasimeno and towns such as Perugia, Arezzo, and Assisi.
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 Perugia Airport, the journey to Passignano sul Trasimeno or Castiglione del Lago takes around 40 to 45 minutes by car (approx. 35 kilometres). Travelling from Florence Airport takes around 1 hour 40 minutes (approx. 135 kilometres), while Rome Fiumicino Airport can be reached in approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (around 190 kilometres), depending on traffic and destination. Transfers are also available between Lake Trasimeno and towns such as Perugia, Arezzo, and Assisi.
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.
