Laveno - Mombello
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Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Laveno - Mombello is situated in the Province of Varese, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 9,000 residents and is located 77 kilometres north-west of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
The double-barrelled name of the town refers to the two villages of Laveno and Mombello which together form the official comune. |
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What People Ask About Laveno-Mombello
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Discover Laveno-Mombello
Laveno
Of the two villages, the main one of interest is Laveno: it's characterised by a narrow lungolago (lakeside promenade) called Viale de Angelo where you can take your pick from a series of waterfront cafes and restaurants.
The promenade leads to a large marina area with its yachts gently swaying from side to side. What you might describe as the town centre is the point where the main lakeside road turns inland. To the left of this area is the Viale de Angelo, ahead a cluster of pretty buildings crowned by the town's main church the Chiesa di Sant'Ambrogio, and to the right another small marina.
The area just south of this smaller marina marks the town's significant transport hub: from here you can take a ferry to every major destination around Lake Maggiore or take the inland train towards the local main city of Varese. You can also make use of another type of transportation: the cable-car which carries passengers up the Sasso del Ferro; a 1,062 metre high mountain.
The promenade leads to a large marina area with its yachts gently swaying from side to side. What you might describe as the town centre is the point where the main lakeside road turns inland. To the left of this area is the Viale de Angelo, ahead a cluster of pretty buildings crowned by the town's main church the Chiesa di Sant'Ambrogio, and to the right another small marina.
The area just south of this smaller marina marks the town's significant transport hub: from here you can take a ferry to every major destination around Lake Maggiore or take the inland train towards the local main city of Varese. You can also make use of another type of transportation: the cable-car which carries passengers up the Sasso del Ferro; a 1,062 metre high mountain.
Cerro
One of the most attractive areas of the town is a little way south around the headland of the lake. The village of Cerro has an attractive lakefront with a park and a cluster of medieval buildings. Among those buildings is the International Museum of Ceramic Design which celebrates one of the town's main historic industries.
If you don't have your own car, you can still get great enjoyment out of the local area by basing yourself in Laveno. Its excellent transport links are among the best around the whole lake area.
Directly opposite Laveno and reachable by ferry is the city of Verbania which is home to the beautiful garden of Villa Taranto. The ferries will also transport you to the Borromean Islands with further gardens to discover on Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
If you don't have your own car, you can still get great enjoyment out of the local area by basing yourself in Laveno. Its excellent transport links are among the best around the whole lake area.
Directly opposite Laveno and reachable by ferry is the city of Verbania which is home to the beautiful garden of Villa Taranto. The ferries will also transport you to the Borromean Islands with further gardens to discover on Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
Santa Caterina del Sasso
Those locations are all on the Piedmont side of the lake with the dividing line between the two regions around half way across. Back on the Lombardy side of the lake and just a short distance south of Laveno is the monastery at Santa Caterina del Sasso which provides one of the defining images of Lake Maggiore.
Of course a car is advantageous as well; north of Laveno it's just a short run to the Swiss border with a series of beautiful towns to see along the way such as Castelveccana, Germignaga and Luino while inland there are three further lakes within a short distance of each other: the biggest of those is Lake Varese which lies just above Lake Monate and Lake Comabbio.
Of course a car is advantageous as well; north of Laveno it's just a short run to the Swiss border with a series of beautiful towns to see along the way such as Castelveccana, Germignaga and Luino while inland there are three further lakes within a short distance of each other: the biggest of those is Lake Varese which lies just above Lake Monate and Lake Comabbio.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Laveno-Mombello
- Lakeside promenade and harbour form the central point of Laveno, offering views across Lake Maggiore and regular ferry departures. The waterfront includes cafés, small beaches and a pedestrian-friendly path. The harbour connects the town with Verbania and other lakeside destinations. Art installations and flowerbeds enhance the promenade area.
- Cable car to Sasso del Ferro departs from near the town centre and rises to over 1,000 metres above sea level. The open-air cable cars provide panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Alps. At the summit, visitors find walking trails, a restaurant and a launch site for paragliders. The ride is especially popular in clear weather.
- International Museum of Ceramic Design (MIDeC) is located in the hamlet of Cerro, part of Laveno-Mombello, and housed in a lakeside villa. The museum displays ceramics from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by important Italian manufacturers. Temporary exhibitions and educational workshops are also held on site.
- Walking trails and nature paths extend into the wooded hills and ridges behind the town, including routes to Monte Sasso del Ferro and Monte Sangiano. Trails vary in difficulty, with some leading to chapels, picnic areas and panoramic viewpoints. Spring and autumn are popular times for hiking in the area.
- Water sports and boat trips make the most of the lake setting, with activities such as sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding available in warmer months. Boats can be rented by the hour, and guided lake excursions are offered by local operators. Swimming areas are accessible from both Laveno and Cerro.
Laveno-Mombello Tours and Activities
Comune di Laveno-Mombello
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Province: Varese
Region: Lombardy Population: 8,360 (in 2024 - source) Size: 26 km² Elevation: 205 metres Highlights: Viale de Angelo, Chiesa di Sant'Ambrogio Close by: Santa Caterina del Sasso, Verbania, Lake Varese |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Laveno-Mombello
- Hotel de Charme Laveno Located directly on the lakefront, this four-star hotel features modern, minimalist rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, an infinity pool overlooking the water, a spa, and a restaurant. Guests appreciate the stylish design, lakeside setting, and short walk to the ferry terminal and town centre. €€€€ (luxury)
- Locanda Pozzetto Positioned on a hillside above Laveno, this charming inn offers rooms with panoramic lake views, a peaceful garden, and an on-site restaurant serving local specialities. Visitors enjoy the quiet setting, friendly service, and easy drive to the lakeside promenade. €€€ (high-end)
- Il Porticciolo Situated just north of the town centre, this hotel and restaurant offers bright, modern rooms—some with private balconies—and direct lake access. Guests value the food, welcoming atmosphere, and lovely position near the harbour and beach. €€€ (high-end)
- Agriturismo Monterosso Located in the hills behind Laveno, this working farm offers rustic-style rooms, a restaurant serving homemade products, and scenic walking paths. Visitors enjoy the rural tranquillity, good value, and views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding countryside. €€ (mid-range)
- Ostello Casa Rossa A relaxed and affordable option in Mombello, offering clean, simple rooms, a garden, and communal kitchen. Ideal for walkers and cyclists, guests appreciate the friendly staff, quiet location, and easy access to trails and local transport. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Laveno-Mombello
- Ristorante Il Porticciolo: Situated near the lakeside, Ristorante Il Porticciolo offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. The outdoor seating area provides beautiful views of Lake Maggiore, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria del Lago: Found in the heart of Laveno-Mombello, Trattoria del Lago specializes in regional Lombardian cuisine, including risotto and grilled meats. The rustic interior and warm service create a comfortable atmosphere for an authentic dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Punta: Located near the town centre, Ristorante La Punta offers a selection of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh fish and pasta. The restaurant’s elevated position provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Il Burchiello: Situated just outside the town, Ristorante Il Burchiello serves a variety of Italian dishes, including local specialties such as polenta and braised meats. The tranquil setting and attentive service make it a popular spot for a more intimate meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Caffè del Lago: Located by the lake, Caffè del Lago offers light meals, including sandwiches, pizza, and coffee, alongside a selection of local pastries. The relaxed outdoor seating area makes it an ideal spot for enjoying a casual meal with scenic lake views. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Laveno-Mombello Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Laveno-Mombello
- Lago di Monate (approx. 10 km southeast of Laveno-Mombello): A tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery, Lago di Monate offers clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the shore. The nearby town of Monate provides charming lakeside cafes, making it an ideal spot for a quiet day out.
- Ispra (approx. 15 km south of Laveno-Mombello): Situated along the shores of Lake Maggiore, Ispra is a small town known for its beautiful lakeside promenade and the nearby Parco Naturale del Ticino, a nature reserve perfect for hiking and birdwatching. The town also boasts a number of excellent restaurants offering fresh local seafood.
- Angera (approx. 10 km northwest of Laveno-Mombello): Located on the opposite shore of Lake Maggiore, Angera is renowned for its impressive Rocca di Angera, a historic castle offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. The town is also home to the Museo della Bambola, which houses a fascinating collection of antique dolls.
- Verbania (approx. 25 km northeast of Laveno-Mombello): A beautiful town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Verbania is known for its picturesque lakeside gardens, particularly Villa Taranto with its vast botanical gardens. Visitors can also explore the town’s lively centre, filled with shops, cafes, and local markets.
- Stresa (approx. 20 km northeast of Laveno-Mombello): A charming lakeside town famous for its grand villas and proximity to the Borromean Islands. Stresa offers stunning views of the lake and the Alps, as well as attractions such as the Isola Bella and the Isola dei Pescatori, which are easily accessible by boat.
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 Laveno-Mombello
By Rail: Laveno-Mombello is served by two railway stations:
The journey from Milan to Laveno-Mombello takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with regular departures throughout the day.
By Road: Laveno-Mombello is approximately 75 km northwest of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 motorway, exiting at Sesto Calende-Vergiate, and following the SP69 along the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore. From Varese, the journey is about 25 km, taking approximately 40 minutes via the SP1 road.
Nearest International Airports:
- Laveno-Mombello FS: Located on the Gallarate–Laveno railway line, this station offers regional train services connecting to Milan and other destinations.
- Laveno-Mombello Nord: Situated on the Saronno–Laveno railway line, managed by Ferrovienord, providing services to Saronno and Milan Cadorna.
The journey from Milan to Laveno-Mombello takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with regular departures throughout the day.
By Road: Laveno-Mombello is approximately 75 km northwest of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 motorway, exiting at Sesto Calende-Vergiate, and following the SP69 along the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore. From Varese, the journey is about 25 km, taking approximately 40 minutes via the SP1 road.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 40 km south of Laveno-Mombello, the drive takes approximately 50 minutes via the SS336 and SP69 roads. From the airport, travellers can take a train to Gallarate and transfer to a regional train to Laveno-Mombello.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 95 km southeast of Laveno-Mombello, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A8 motorway. Train services are available from Milan to Laveno-Mombello as described above.
