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Orta  San  Giulio​

⭐ Ranked #29 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
Latest page update: 20 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​Situated around twenty kilometres west of Lake Maggiore, the quieter environs of Lake Orta are graced by the elegance of Orta San Giulio. 

Taking its rightful place among the Borghi Piu Belli d'Italia (Italy's most beautiful villages), Orta San Giulio is a lakeside town to rank among the very best in the country. 

​This is a fully intact and liveable medieval town with a delightful main square overlooking the incomparable Isola San Giulio.

What People Ask About Orta San Giulio

Where is Orta San Giulio located?
Orta San Giulio is located on the eastern shore of Lake Orta in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. It faces the small island of San Giulio and lies around 90 km northwest of Milan.
What is there to see in Orta San Giulio?
Highlights include the medieval old town, Piazza Motta, the ferry to Isola San Giulio, and Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO site with chapels and panoramic lake views. The narrow lanes and lakeside walks are also popular.
Can you visit Isola San Giulio?
Yes, small ferries run frequently from Orta San Giulio to the island. You can visit the Basilica di San Giulio and walk the “Way of Silence” around the perimeter, which passes the Benedictine monastery.
How do you get to Orta San Giulio by train?
The nearest station is Orta-Miasino, about 1.5 km uphill from the town centre. It’s on a regional line with connections from Novara. From the station, you can walk or take a taxi down to the lakefront.
Is Orta San Giulio worth visiting?
Yes, Orta San Giulio is one of the most beautiful villages in northern Italy. It’s known for its peaceful setting, historic charm, and the unique atmosphere of Lake Orta, which is quieter than nearby Lake Maggiore.
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Discover

Discover Orta San Giulio
Piazza Motta
The village centre is dominated by Piazza Motta. On one side of the piazza, a row of multi-coloured buildings with wrought-iron balconies looks out onto the lake with the eye gratefully distracted by the impossibly beautiful island at the centre of it.

​Beneath this row of buildings are a number of shops and restaurants that offer some welcome shade during the hottest months of summer. Another star turn in the piazza is the town hall, built in 1582 and known colloquially as the Palazzotto or by its official name, the Palazzo della Communità. 

​Walk north, south or east of Piazza Motta and you'll find charming cobbled streets supplanted by fascinating archways and galleries. The narrow Via Olina conceals a number of shops and restaurants while the wider Via Albertoletti or Salita della Motta rises towards the town's main church: Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, built in the 15th century. ​
Isola San Giulio
To the west of Piazza Motta, it won't be long before curiosity gets the better of you and you'll want to take a closer look at the island in the lake. Isola San Giulio is a haven of tranquility that can be accessed by one of the waiting water taxis. It doesn't take long to walk around the island but its sense of peace and quiet lingers long in the memory. 

​Orta San Giulio offers a good number of accommodation options with some beautiful hotels overlooking the water. Although the town is pedestrianised, it's easy to access by car and there's a modern, multi-storey (partially underground) car park just a short walk from the centre.
Sacro Monte di Orta
The town sits on the fringes of a large headland which is topped by a religious sanctuary, the Sacro Monte di Orta. This offers a fascinating diversion from the delights at water level but also some of the most breathtaking views of the lake.

​Other towns around the lake that merit a visit are Omegna, 10 kilometres to the north, or the much smaller Pella which is directly opposite Orta San Giulio.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Orta San Giulio
  • Piazza Motta is the central square of the town, opening onto the lakefront with views of the island. Surrounded by cafés and pastel façades, it hosts regular markets and seasonal events. The square also serves as the departure point for boat trips. It has long been the social and commercial heart of Orta.
  • Isola di San Giulio lies just offshore and is accessible by a short boat ride from the main square. The island is home to the Benedictine Monastery and the ancient Basilica di San Giulio, rich in Romanesque architecture and medieval frescoes. A walking path encircles the island in near silence. It is one of the most atmospheric places on Lake Orta.
  • Sacro Monte di Orta is a UNESCO World Heritage site set on a wooded hill above the town. It consists of 20 chapels dedicated to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, decorated with frescoes and terracotta figures. The site offers views of the lake and surrounding landscape. It is reached via a cobbled path through the park.
  • Palazzo della Comunità is a 16th-century building located in Piazza Motta, also known as the Broletto. Once the seat of local government, it is notable for its stone staircase and painted façade. Today, it hosts exhibitions and cultural events. The building represents Orta’s historic autonomy as a small lakeside commune.
  • Lakefront Promenade and Cobbled Streets wind through the old town, passing shops, art galleries, and viewpoints over the water. The narrow alleys retain a medieval layout and are lined with historic houses. The promenade continues beyond the centre for lakeside walks. It offers a peaceful route to admire the setting.
Orta San Giulio Tours and Activities
Comune di Orta San Giulio 
Province: Novara

Region: Piedmont

Population: 1,111​ (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 6.8 km²

Elevation: 294 metres

Highlights: Isola San Giulio, Piazza Motta, Palazzotto

​Close by: Sacro Monte di Orta, Omegna, Pella
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: L'acquerello di Dio (God's Watercolour)
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

1 of 18 in Piedmont listed by Touring Club Italiano

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Orta San Giulio
  • Hotel San Rocco Located directly on the lakefront in the historic centre, this elegant four-star hotel occupies a former convent and offers lake-view rooms, a panoramic restaurant, a lakeside terrace, and an outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting and views across to Isola San Giulio. €€€€ (luxury)
  • Relais & Chateaux Villa Crespi Situated just outside the town centre, this Moorish-style 19th-century villa offers opulent rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo, and lush gardens. Visitors enjoy the romantic atmosphere, exceptional service, and refined dining. €€€€ (luxury)
  • Hotel La Bussola Positioned a short walk above the town, this family-run hotel features rooms with balconies overlooking the lake, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and private parking. Guests value the quiet setting, friendly staff, and easy access to the historic centre. €€€ (high-end)
  • Piccolo Hotel Olina Located in the heart of Orta San Giulio’s pedestrian area, this eco-friendly hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms spread across historic buildings and breakfast served in a nearby sister property. Visitors enjoy the character, central location, and good value. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Al Dom Set in an elegant period villa on the lakefront, this boutique B&B features rooms with antique furnishings, direct lake access, and a private garden. Guests appreciate the atmosphere, lake views, and proximity to the old town and ferry pier. €€€ (high-end)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Orta San Giulio
  • Ristorante Villa Crespi: Situated near the beautiful Lake Orta, Ristorante Villa Crespi offers a fine dining experience with a menu that blends Mediterranean flavours with local Piedmontese cuisine. The restaurant, housed in an elegant Moorish-style villa, offers a refined atmosphere for a memorable meal. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Trattoria San Giulio: Located in the heart of Orta San Giulio, Trattoria San Giulio specializes in traditional Italian dishes, including fresh pasta and seasonal local ingredients. The intimate setting and traditional décor provide a welcoming atmosphere for a casual, yet authentic meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • La Motta: Found near the town’s historic centre, La Motta offers a selection of local Piedmontese dishes, such as agnolotti and risotto, paired with excellent local wines. The charming and rustic interior makes it a cosy spot for a relaxed dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Al Sorriso: Situated just outside Orta San Giulio, Ristorante Al Sorriso is known for its innovative approach to traditional Piedmontese cuisine. The menu features a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Osteria dell'Orso: Located near the lakeside, Osteria dell'Orso offers a variety of regional dishes, including fresh fish from Lake Orta and homemade pasta. The outdoor seating area provides stunning views of the lake, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Orta San Giulio
  • Omegna (approx. 15 km southwest of Orta San Giulio): A town located on the northern shore of Lake Orta, Omegna is known for its scenic waterfront and charming old town. Visitors can explore the lively Piazza Salera, stroll along the lakeside promenade, and discover the town’s industrial heritage, particularly its long history in the production of kitchenware and household goods.
  • Miasino (approx. 5 km south of Orta San Giulio): A small, peaceful village overlooking Lake Orta, Miasino offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The town’s historic centre features traditional buildings and narrow streets, perfect for a leisurely walk. Villa Nigra, a historic villa set in beautiful gardens, is also a notable attraction in the area.
  • Pella (approx. 5 km north of Orta San Giulio): A quaint lakeside village, Pella is known for its picturesque streets and views of Isola San Giulio. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, explore the village’s historical buildings, or take a boat trip to the island to visit the Basilica di San Giulio and the monastery.
  • Borgomanero (approx. 25 km southeast of Orta San Giulio): A larger town located inland from Lake Orta, Borgomanero is known for its historic centre, the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, and the Palazzo Tornielli. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby Valle Strona, with its hiking trails and beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Arona (approx. 40 km southwest of Orta San Giulio): Situated on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Arona offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. Key attractions include the impressive Colosso di San Carlo, a towering statue of St. Charles Borromeo, and the historic Castello di Arona. The town’s lakeside promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk or boat ride.
Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont

1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. ​Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. ​Barolo

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Orta San Giulio
By Rail: Orta San Giulio is served by the Orta-Miasino station, located about 1.5 km from the town centre. Trains run on the Novara–Domodossola line. From Novara, the journey takes approximately 1 hour. From Milan, trains take about 1 hour and 40 minutes, usually requiring a change in Novara. A local bus or taxi can be taken from the station to reach the lakefront and old town.

By Road: Orta San Giulio is approximately 90 km northwest of Milan, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A26 motorway. From the motorway, exit at Borgomanero or Arona and follow the SP229 road towards the town. Parking is available outside the historic centre, which is pedestrianised.

Nearest International Airports:
​
  • Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 50 km southeast of Orta San Giulio, the drive takes approximately 1 hour via the A26 motorway. From the airport, you can also take a train to Novara and continue to Orta-Miasino.
  • Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 105 km southeast of Orta San Giulio, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Train and bus combinations are available via Milan’s central stations.

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