Porto  Valtravaglia​

Latest page update: 6 March 2025
By Dion Protani
The lakeside town of Porto Valtravaglia is situated in the Province of Varese, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 2,300 residents and is located a distance of 87 kilometres north west of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.

​Nearby places of interest include Castelveccana, Germignaga, Laveno-Mombello and Luino.
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Porto Valtravaglia • Lake Maggiore • Lombardy
Porto Valtravaglia is a small town located in the province of Varese, Lombardy, situated on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, about 15 kilometres to the north of Luino. Surrounded by the tranquil waters of the lake and the surrounding hills, Porto Valtravaglia offers stunning views of the lake and the nearby mountains. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere, with a combination of traditional lakeside buildings, narrow streets, and a charming waterfront that adds to its natural appeal.

The town offers a range of outdoor activities, particularly for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy the lake for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the surrounding hills provide hiking and cycling opportunities with scenic views of the lake and the Alps. The lakeside promenade offers a relaxed setting for walks, and the area is perfect for those who enjoy exploring the natural beauty of the region. Porto Valtravaglia also offers access to local parks and green spaces, making it ideal for relaxation.

Nearby, the town of Luino, located to the south, offers more lakeside attractions, including a bustling market and a variety of shops and services. To the north, the town of Maccagno provides additional lakeside charm and access to nature reserves. Porto Valtravaglia’s location, with its serene setting and proximity to these neighbouring towns, makes it a wonderful base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the surrounding natural and cultural landmarks.​
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Lake Maggiore: The village's prime attraction is the stunning Lake Maggiore, one of Italy's largest lakes. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, water sports, and lakeside walks while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Porto Valtravaglia Beach: The village has a small public beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing by the lake.
  • Church of San Rocco: The Church of San Rocco, dating back to the 17th century, is a prominent landmark in Porto Valtravaglia. It features beautiful frescoes and is worth a visit for its historical and artistic value.
  • Hiking and Nature: The surrounding area offers excellent hiking opportunities, with trails leading to the nearby mountains and forests. The breathtaking views from the elevated points attract nature enthusiasts and photographers.
  • Local Cuisine: The region is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and visitors can savor local dishes and traditional Italian specialties at the village's restaurants and trattorias.
  • Luino Market: The town of Luino, located nearby, hosts one of the largest and most famous markets in the region. The Luino Market takes place every Wednesday and offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, and local goods.
  • Day Trips: From Porto Valtravaglia, visitors can easily explore other attractions around Lake Maggiore, such as the Borromean Islands and the town of Stresa.
Comune di Porto Valtravaglia
Province: Varese

Region: Lombardy

​Population: ​2,271​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 16 km²

Elevation: 199 metres

​​​Travel facilities: ferry port

​​Close by: Castelveccana, Germignaga, Laveno-Mombello, Luino​

Recommended accommodation: ​Hotel de Charme Laveno (9 km)

Porto  Valtravaglia​​  Gallery

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