Omegna
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Latest page update: 19 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Omegna is situated in the Verbano Cusio Ossola Province, on the shores of Lake Orta. It has a population of around 15,000 residents and is located 150 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.
Aside from its obvious attractions to tourists, it's home to two of Italy's most iconic brands: Bialetti and Alessi. |
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What People Ask About Omegna
Where is Omegna located?
Does Omegna have a train station?
What is Omegna known for?
Can you swim in Lake Orta at Omegna?
Is Omegna a good base for visiting Lake Orta?
Related links
Discover
Discover Omegna
Famous brand names
If you've spent any significant length of time in Italy, at one stage or another you'll have seen the Bialetti logo on one of the typical Italian coffee pots called a moka. Meanwhile Alessi are famous for their funky kitchenware which can be bought at an outlet store north of the town.
The presence of these innovative brands is just another feather in the cap for Omegna whose pretty town centre is one of the most delightful in the region.
Omegna sits at the northern tip of Lake Orta which itself is just a short distance to the west of Lake Maggiore. Whilst Lake Orta is less famous and smaller than its neighbour, it can boast a series of beautiful lakeside locations of which Omegna is just one.
The presence of these innovative brands is just another feather in the cap for Omegna whose pretty town centre is one of the most delightful in the region.
Omegna sits at the northern tip of Lake Orta which itself is just a short distance to the west of Lake Maggiore. Whilst Lake Orta is less famous and smaller than its neighbour, it can boast a series of beautiful lakeside locations of which Omegna is just one.
Elegant town centre
The centrepiece of the town centre is the area around the bridge that separates Lake Orta from the River Nigoglia. From the northern side of the bridge you can enjoy some lovely views along the river while from the opposite side you look out onto the lake.
The elegant Comune di Omegna building with its columns marks one of the liveliest shopping areas of the town, while across the bridge on the eastern side you can take a pleasant walk along the lakeside promenade called the Lungolago Buozzi.
The walk eventually reaches a small beach area and is preceded by rows of boats moored at the marina. Across on the western shore there's a similar, laid-back lakeside atmosphere and a public park which leads onto Lungolago Gramsci.
The elegant Comune di Omegna building with its columns marks one of the liveliest shopping areas of the town, while across the bridge on the eastern side you can take a pleasant walk along the lakeside promenade called the Lungolago Buozzi.
The walk eventually reaches a small beach area and is preceded by rows of boats moored at the marina. Across on the western shore there's a similar, laid-back lakeside atmosphere and a public park which leads onto Lungolago Gramsci.
Around Lake Orta
Most people that visit Lake Orta make a bee-line for its signature town Orta San Giulio and whilst that's perfectly understandable and to be encouraged, it's worth allowing a little extra time for Omegna as well which has fewer tourists and its own considerable charms.
Accommodation prices are also more competitive at this end of the lake and it's a sensible place in which to base yourself for an extended stay. From Omegna you can catch the Lake Orta ferry down to Orta San Giulio and the pretty little island that sits in the middle of the lake called Isola San Giulio. Most people miss the smaller town of Pella on the western shore but that's another great place to spend a day with great restaurants and some of the most dazzling blue water you can find around the lake.
Accommodation prices are also more competitive at this end of the lake and it's a sensible place in which to base yourself for an extended stay. From Omegna you can catch the Lake Orta ferry down to Orta San Giulio and the pretty little island that sits in the middle of the lake called Isola San Giulio. Most people miss the smaller town of Pella on the western shore but that's another great place to spend a day with great restaurants and some of the most dazzling blue water you can find around the lake.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Omegna
- Lake Orta promenade and old town form the heart of Omegna, with arcaded buildings, lakeside cafés and views across the water. The promenade is ideal for walking and connects to public gardens and small docks. The old town includes medieval houses, narrow alleys and local shops. Boats and ferries also operate from the lakeside area.
- Church of Sant’Ambrogio dates to the 10th century and was later rebuilt in Baroque style. Inside, it houses a richly decorated altar, frescoes and paintings by regional artists. The tall bell tower is one of the town’s main landmarks. The church faces a quiet square near the central streets and is still used for services and concerts.
- Civic Museum of Arts and Industry traces the town’s industrial past, particularly its role in household goods production. Located in a converted factory, the museum includes exhibitions on design, manufacturing and the development of local companies. It offers a contrast to the lakeside setting and highlights Omegna’s 20th-century growth.
- Gianni Rodari Park and themed activities honour the children’s author born in Omegna. The lakeside park includes play areas, reading corners and sculptures inspired by his stories. Family-friendly events and workshops take place throughout the year. The park links to walking paths and is part of a wider initiative promoting literature.
- Hiking and boat excursions make the most of Omegna’s natural setting, with trails leading into the surrounding hills and forests. Popular paths include routes towards Monte Mottarone and viewpoints over Lake Orta. Boat trips visit Orta San Giulio and other villages around the lake. Activities are available from spring to early autumn.
Omegna Tours and Activities
Comune di Omegna
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Province: Verbano Cusio Ossola
Region: Piedmont Population: 14,246 (in 2024 - source) Size: 31 km² Elevation: 295 metres Highlights: lakeside promenades Market day: Thursday morning, Palazzo del Comune Close by: Orta San Giulio, Pella, Isola San Giulio, Ronco Marina |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Omegna
- Croce Bianca Located directly on the lakeside promenade in the centre of Omegna, this historic hotel offers comfortable rooms, some with lake views, and an on-site restaurant. Guests appreciate the central location, proximity to shops and cafés, and views of Lake Orta. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Antica Corte Situated in a quiet area just outside the historic centre, this bed and breakfast offers cosy rooms with traditional furnishings, a garden, and breakfast made with local ingredients. Visitors enjoy the welcoming hosts and easy walk to the lakeside. €€ (mid-range)
- La Torre di Nonio Positioned on the hills above Omegna in the village of Nonio, this charming guesthouse offers panoramic lake views, rustic interiors, and a peaceful setting. Guests value the authenticity, tranquillity, and nearby hiking paths. €€ (mid-range)
- Affittacamere Elettra A modern guesthouse near the town centre, offering bright, spacious rooms with kitchenettes and balconies. Guests appreciate the cleanliness, convenience for exploring Omegna on foot, and close access to Lake Orta’s public beach area. €€ (mid-range)
- Camping Royal Located a short drive from Omegna in the countryside, this lakeside campsite offers bungalows and mobile homes with kitchens, a swimming pool, and lake access. It's a popular choice for families and travellers seeking affordable, self-catering options. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Omegna
- Ristorante Da Venanzio: Located along the lakefront of Omegna, Da Venanzio offers refined Piedmontese and lake-inspired cuisine. The menu includes dishes such as risotto with lake fish, veal with tuna sauce, and seasonal vegetable specialities, all served in an elegant dining room overlooking Lake Orta. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria La Cartiera: Situated in a historic building close to the centre, this osteria focuses on traditional recipes with a modern touch. Specialities include fresh pasta, braised meats, and desserts made with local ingredients, in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria il Barcaiolo: Found near the lakeside promenade, Il Barcaiolo serves classic Italian and Piedmontese dishes, with highlights including pasta with ragù, grilled meats, and lake fish. The informal atmosphere and hearty portions make it a popular spot for casual dining. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante 9090: Located in the heart of Omegna, 9090 offers a contemporary dining experience with a creative menu that blends local traditions with modern techniques. The stylish setting and varied menu make it a good choice for a relaxed but slightly upscale evening. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria La Motta: A casual option close to the old town, La Motta serves a wide range of wood-fired pizzas alongside simple pasta dishes and salads. It’s a convenient and affordable choice for a quick meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Omegna Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Omegna
- Orta San Giulio (approx. 5 km south of Omegna): Situated on the banks of Lake Orta, Orta San Giulio is a charming village known for its medieval architecture and cobbled streets. The town’s main square, Piazza Motta, offers stunning views of the lake and Isola San Giulio, a small island with a basilica and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful day trip.
- Arona (approx. 30 km south of Omegna): Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Arona is a lively town with a picturesque lakeside promenade. Visitors can explore Castello di Arona, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding region, or stroll through the town's historic centre, filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
- Stresa (approx. 40 km south of Omegna): A renowned lakeside town on Lake Maggiore, Stresa is famous for its grand villas, such as Villa Pallavicino, and the nearby Borromean Islands. Visitors can take a boat tour to Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori, or simply enjoy the stunning lakeside views and picturesque streets of the town.
- Baveno (approx. 30 km south of Omegna): A peaceful town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Baveno is known for its beautiful lakeside promenade and historic buildings, including the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista. The town’s calm atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the lake, with easy access to boat tours and nearby attractions.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Omegna
By Rail: Omegna has its own railway station on the Domodossola–Novara line. Regional trains operated by Trenitalia serve this station. The journey from Novara takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with trains running regularly throughout the day. From Domodossola, the journey is about 45 minutes. The station is within walking distance of the town centre.
By Road: Omegna is approximately 100 km northwest of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 and A26 motorways, exiting at Gravellona Toce and following signs for Omegna. From Turin, the journey is about 140 km, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A4 and A26 motorways. Local roads connect Omegna to nearby towns such as Verbania and Orta San Giulio.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Omegna is approximately 100 km northwest of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 and A26 motorways, exiting at Gravellona Toce and following signs for Omegna. From Turin, the journey is about 140 km, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A4 and A26 motorways. Local roads connect Omegna to nearby towns such as Verbania and Orta San Giulio.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 65 km south of Omegna, the drive takes approximately 1 hour via the A26 motorway. From the airport, you can take a train to Milan and then transfer to a regional train to Omegna.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 120 km southeast of Omegna, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 and A26 motorways. Train services are available from Milan to Omegna as described above.
