Luino
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Luino
Luino has a small but well-regarded selection of established hotels, supported by its lakeside setting and ferry connections on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore. The best-reviewed options focus on comfort, convenient access to the waterfront and reliable service standards.
Camin Hotel Colmegna, located just outside Luino, is one of the standout choices, offering a lakeside location, scenic grounds, welcoming hospitality and consistently strong guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Internazionale, set near the waterfront and close to the town’s amenities, provides modern rooms and dependable service, performing well for convenience and comfort (€€€). For those seeking an alternative with broader facilities nearby, Hotel de Charme Laveno in Laveno-Mombello offers an upmarket lakeside base with spa services and elegant interiors (€€€€).
Camin Hotel Colmegna, located just outside Luino, is one of the standout choices, offering a lakeside location, scenic grounds, welcoming hospitality and consistently strong guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Internazionale, set near the waterfront and close to the town’s amenities, provides modern rooms and dependable service, performing well for convenience and comfort (€€€). For those seeking an alternative with broader facilities nearby, Hotel de Charme Laveno in Laveno-Mombello offers an upmarket lakeside base with spa services and elegant interiors (€€€€).
Where is
Where is Luino?
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The lakeside town of Luino is situated in the Province of Varese, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 15,000 residents and is located a distance of 90 kilometres north-west of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Germignaga, Maccagno, Laveno-Mombello and Lake Lugano. |
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Comune di Luino
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Province: Varese
Region: Lombardy Population: 14,190 (in 2024 - source) Size: 21 km² Elevation: 202 metres Close by: Germignaga, Maccagno, Laveno-Mombello, Lake Lugano |
What People Ask About Luino
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Discover
Discover Luino
Luino is a town on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, close to the Swiss border. Set between the lake and the rising slopes of the Prealps, it has developed as the main centre for the upper part of the lake in Lombardy. The settlement combines a busy lakeside with residential districts climbing into the surrounding hills, offering both wide views across the water and access to mountain routes.
The town is best known for its weekly market, one of the largest in the region, which draws visitors from both Italy and Switzerland. Other landmarks include the Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo and the lakeside promenade, lined with villas and gardens. Luino is well connected by road and rail, with routes south towards Laveno-Mombello and north to Locarno in Switzerland. Its position makes it a focal point for exploring both Lake Maggiore and the Alpine valleys nearby.
The town is best known for its weekly market, one of the largest in the region, which draws visitors from both Italy and Switzerland. Other landmarks include the Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo and the lakeside promenade, lined with villas and gardens. Luino is well connected by road and rail, with routes south towards Laveno-Mombello and north to Locarno in Switzerland. Its position makes it a focal point for exploring both Lake Maggiore and the Alpine valleys nearby.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Luino
- Lakeside Promenade and Marina: Luino occupies a scenic position on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, with a spacious lakeside promenade lined with palm trees, cafés, and gardens. The marina area is popular for strolling, boating, and enjoying open views across the lake to the Piedmontese side.
- Collegiata di San Pietro e Paolo: This parish church dominates the historic centre and features Baroque architecture with a richly decorated interior. The church has been expanded and modified over centuries and remains a central place of worship and cultural reference in the town.
- Luino’s Historic Centre and Arcades: The old town is characterised by narrow streets, stone archways, and covered walkways that now host small shops, gelaterie, and local bakeries. The layout reflects Luino’s long history as a lakeside trading hub with ties to both Lombardy and nearby Switzerland.
- Wednesday Market: Luino hosts one of the largest and oldest weekly markets in northern Italy. Every Wednesday, the town fills with stalls selling clothes, food, household goods, and artisanal products. It draws visitors from across the region and nearby Swiss towns, giving Luino a lively and international feel mid-week.
- Day Trip to Cannobio: Easily reached by ferry in under 30 minutes, Cannobio, on the opposite shore of Lake Maggiore, offers a colourful promenade, historic centre, and additional markets. The cross-lake journey makes for a varied day out, combining lakeside scenery with a taste of Piedmont.
Tours and Activities
Luino Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Luino
- Ristorante Camin Hotel Luino: Located near the lakeside, this elegant restaurant within a historic villa offers a refined menu of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes include lake fish, fresh pasta, and delicately prepared meat mains. With a beautifully decorated dining room and a garden terrace, it’s ideal for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria al Cantinone: Found in the centre of Luino, this popular osteria focuses on traditional dishes from Lombardy and the wider north of Italy. The menu features specialities such as risotto, braised beef, and seasonal vegetables, served in a cosy, vaulted interior. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Pizzeria Manzoni: Situated near the market area, this casual trattoria offers a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas and Italian favourites. It’s a good choice for informal dining with family or friends, with quick service and a relaxed setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Crotto: Located just outside the town centre, Il Crotto is known for its rustic setting and focus on regional cuisine. The menu includes cold cuts, polenta with stews, and hearty mountain dishes, making it a great place for a traditional meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria la Vecchia Pesa: Also in Luino, this informal eatery serves pizzas, pasta, and other simple Italian meals in a friendly atmosphere. The value for money and convenient location make it a reliable choice for a quick and affordable dinner. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Luino Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Luino
- Laveno-Mombello (approx. 10 km northwest of Luino): 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. The Laveno Funicular provides panoramic vistas, while the lakeside promenade offers a relaxing place for a stroll. The town also serves as a base for hiking and boating activities.
- Maccagno (approx. 5 km north of Luino): Located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore, Maccagno is a peaceful town with a beautiful lakeside setting. Visitors can enjoy walking along the Lakeside Promenade, visit the local beaches, or explore nearby hiking trails offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Cittiglio (approx. 15 km southwest of Luino): A small town in the province of Varese, Cittiglio is known for its charming historical centre and its proximity to the Parco Regionale del Campo dei Fiori. The town is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with several scenic walking and hiking routes in the nearby park, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
- Varese (approx. 30 km south of Luino): A town surrounded by the Campo dei Fiori mountain range, Varese is known for its green spaces and historic villas, including Villa Panza and Villa Toeplitz. Visitors can enjoy exploring the town’s charming streets, walking in its parks, or taking in the panoramic views from the surrounding hills.
- Lugano (approx. 30 km north of Luino, in Switzerland): Situated on the shores of Lake Lugano, the Swiss town of Lugano offers a mix of Mediterranean atmosphere and Alpine charm. Visitors can explore the town’s historic centre, stroll along the lakeside promenade, or visit attractions such as the Parco Ciani and the Museo d'Arte.
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 Luino
By Rail: Luino has its own train station on the Gallarate–Luino railway line, served by Trenord regional services. Trains run regularly to Gallarate, where passengers can connect to services bound for Milan and other major cities. The journey from Milan to Luino takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes with a change at Gallarate. The station is located close to the town centre and within easy walking distance of the lakefront and ferry terminal.
By Road: Luino is located on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese, close to the Swiss border. It is around 75 kilometres north-west of Milan and 30 kilometres north-west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69 lakeside road. From Varese, the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Public parking is available near the town centre and along the lake.
By Ferry: Luino is a key stop on the Navigazione Laghi ferry network on Lake Maggiore, with seasonal services operating from spring through early autumn. Passenger boats connect Luino to other towns along the lake, including Cannero Riviera, Cannobio, Maccagno, Laveno-Mombello, and Intra. These services provide access to both the Italian and Swiss shores of the lake. Vehicle ferry services are not available from Luino, but are accessible from Laveno-Mombello to Intra, located about 15 kilometres south.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Luino is located on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese, close to the Swiss border. It is around 75 kilometres north-west of Milan and 30 kilometres north-west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69 lakeside road. From Varese, the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Public parking is available near the town centre and along the lake.
By Ferry: Luino is a key stop on the Navigazione Laghi ferry network on Lake Maggiore, with seasonal services operating from spring through early autumn. Passenger boats connect Luino to other towns along the lake, including Cannero Riviera, Cannobio, Maccagno, Laveno-Mombello, and Intra. These services provide access to both the Italian and Swiss shores of the lake. Vehicle ferry services are not available from Luino, but are accessible from Laveno-Mombello to Intra, located about 15 kilometres south.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located approximately 55 kilometres south of Luino, the drive takes around 1 hour. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport, and train connections are possible via Gallarate.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 100 kilometres south-east of Luino, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Travellers can also take a train from Milan Centrale to Gallarate, then connect to Luino by regional service.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): About 120 kilometres south-east of Luino, the journey by car takes around 2 hours. Public transport options involve a combination of train and bus travel via Milan and Gallarate.
Private Transfers
Luino Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to travel to or from Luino, giving you a direct journey without the need to organise train changes or drive the winding lakeside roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable service.
From Luino, the nearest hub is Varese city centre, which can be reached in about 40 minutes, a distance of 25 km. Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour away at 60 km, while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 35 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 1 hour 45 minutes with a journey of 115 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 45 minutes away, a distance of 35 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 Luino, the nearest hub is Varese city centre, which can be reached in about 40 minutes, a distance of 25 km. Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour away at 60 km, while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 35 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 1 hour 45 minutes with a journey of 115 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 45 minutes away, a distance of 35 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.
