Meina
Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Meina is situated in the Province of Novara, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 2,400 residents and is located 128 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.
It has a Lake Maggiore ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Lesa, Stresa, Belgirate, Baveno, Isola Bella and Isola Madre. |
What People Ask About Meina
Is Meina worth visiting?
Yes, Meina is worth visiting for its lakeside views, historic villas, and relaxed setting near Arona. It’s a small town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore with easy access to other lake destinations.
What can you do in Meina?
You can walk along the lakeside promenade, visit the Meina Museum of Images and Sound, and enjoy small beaches and gardens. The town is also close to boat routes and scenic cycling paths.
How do you get to Meina?
Meina has its own train station with connections to Milan and Domodossola. It’s also accessible by car along the SS33 road and by boat during the tourist season from nearby towns like Arona and Stresa.
What is Meina known for?
Meina is known for its waterfront setting, historic lakeside villas, and its small museum focused on multimedia storytelling. It’s also a quiet alternative to the larger towns on Lake Maggiore.
When is the best time to visit Meina?
May to September is the best time to visit, when the lake is most active and transport connections are frequent. Spring and early autumn are also good for walks and lake views without the summer crowds.
Related links
Meina • Lake Maggiore • Piedmont
Meina is a charming town located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, positioned along the western shore of Lake Maggiore, about 10 kilometres north of Arona. Nestled between the lake and the surrounding hills, Meina offers spectacular views of the water and the distant alpine peaks, making it a tranquil and scenic destination. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere, which attracts those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
The village itself is small yet picturesque, with a historic centre that features narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and a beautiful lakeside promenade. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront, with opportunities for boating and swimming in the clear waters of Lake Maggiore. Meina is also home to several elegant villas and gardens, showcasing the town’s rich architectural heritage. The serene environment makes it a popular spot for relaxation, while the proximity to the lake offers various water-based activities.
Nearby, the town of Stresa is just a short drive away, offering additional attractions such as the Borromean Islands and the famous Mottarone cable car, which provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The city of Verbania, located to the north on the lake’s opposite shore, also provides more cultural and outdoor experiences. Meina, with its peaceful setting, scenic beauty, and proximity to other lakeside towns, serves as a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Piedmont region.
The village itself is small yet picturesque, with a historic centre that features narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and a beautiful lakeside promenade. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront, with opportunities for boating and swimming in the clear waters of Lake Maggiore. Meina is also home to several elegant villas and gardens, showcasing the town’s rich architectural heritage. The serene environment makes it a popular spot for relaxation, while the proximity to the lake offers various water-based activities.
Nearby, the town of Stresa is just a short drive away, offering additional attractions such as the Borromean Islands and the famous Mottarone cable car, which provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The city of Verbania, located to the north on the lake’s opposite shore, also provides more cultural and outdoor experiences. Meina, with its peaceful setting, scenic beauty, and proximity to other lakeside towns, serves as a perfect base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Piedmont region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Lakefront Promenade: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakefront promenade, which offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands.
- Historic Centre: Explore the charming historic centre of Meina, with its narrow alleys, old buildings, and traditional Italian atmosphere.
- Villa Faraggiana: Visit Villa Faraggiana, a beautiful historic villa located in Meina that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers panoramic lake views.
- Church of Sant'Anna: Discover the Church of Sant'Anna, a lovely 17th-century church with a striking Baroque façade.
- Water Activities: Enjoy water sports and activities on Lake Maggiore, such as boating, sailing, and swimming.
- Culinary Delights: Savour the local cuisine in Meina's restaurants and trattorias, which offer delicious Piedmontese dishes and fresh lake fish.
- Borromean Islands: Take a boat tour to the nearby Borromean Islands, such as Isola Bella and Isola Madre, known for their stunning gardens and historic palaces.
Comune di Meina
Province: Novara
Region: Piedmont Population: 2,351 (in 2024 - source) Size: 8 km² Elevation: 214 metres Transport options: ferry Close by: Lesa, Stresa, Belgirate, Baveno, Isola Bella, Isola Madre |
My recommended accommodation options for Meina:
- Hotel Villa Paradiso Set directly on Lake Maggiore, this 4-star hotel is nestled within an expansive park. Guests appreciate the elegant rooms with lake or garden views, the on-site restaurant offering Italian cuisine, and amenities such as a swimming pool and private beach area. The tranquil environment provides a relaxing atmosphere for visitors. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Bel Sit Located on the lakeside, this hotel offers modern rooms with balconies overlooking the water. Visitors enjoy the private beach, the breakfast room with a terrace providing panoramic lake views, and the small outdoor pool. The proximity to Milan Malpensa Airport adds to its convenience. €€ (mid-range)
- Resort Antico Verbano This residence provides spacious apartments with balconies offering lake vistas. Guests value the self-catering facilities, free Wi-Fi, and the sun terrace by the lake. Its location allows for easy exploration of nearby attractions around Lake Maggiore. €€ (mid-range)
- Scarlet Flower - Lago Maggiore An adults-only accommodation featuring a private beach area, a pool with a view, and a garden. Visitors appreciate the serene setting, modern amenities, and the intimate atmosphere suitable for couples seeking a peaceful getaway. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento con vista lago Offering accommodations with a balcony overlooking the lake, this apartment includes free private parking and Wi-Fi. Guests enjoy the spacious layout, well-equipped kitchen, and the opportunity to experience local life in Meina. € (budget)