Porto Valtravaglia
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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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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Discover Porto Valtravaglia
Porto Valtravaglia, located in the Lombardy region, is a small village set on the shores of Lake Maggiore, offering scenic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Porto Valtravaglia provides a tranquil retreat for visitors looking to explore the serene surroundings. The village’s traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and lakeside location create an idyllic setting for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.
Porto Valtravaglia is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the beautiful views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Porto Valtravaglia offers a range of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead into the surrounding mountains, offering panoramic views of the lake and the nearby countryside. The village’s combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and peaceful lakeside setting makes it an ideal base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Lombardy region.
Porto Valtravaglia is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the beautiful views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Porto Valtravaglia offers a range of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead into the surrounding mountains, offering panoramic views of the lake and the nearby countryside. The village’s combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and peaceful lakeside setting makes it an ideal base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Lombardy region.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Porto Valtravaglia
- Lakeside Promenade and Harbour: Porto Valtravaglia stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, with a tree-lined promenade, small marina, and views across the lake to the Piedmontese side. The waterfront area includes cafés, a pebble beach, and shaded spots ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or lakeside walks.
- Chiesa di San Rocco: Overlooking the main square, this 17th-century church is notable for its Baroque façade and frescoed interior. It remains a focal point of religious and community life and is often used for local concerts and cultural events during the summer months.
- Historic Centre and Old Port: The village's old quarter includes narrow stone lanes, arcades, and the original harbour area once used for trade and fishing. Buildings here retain a traditional character, and local shops and bakeries offer regional products in a relaxed village setting.
- Scenic Walks and Mountain Trails: The hills above Porto Valtravaglia offer access to hiking trails leading to viewpoints such as Monte Borgna and Passo di Forcora. These routes are suitable for nature walks and provide wide views over the lake and surrounding alpine foothills.
- Day Trip to Cannero Riviera: Easily reached by ferry across the lake, Cannero Riviera offers historic ruins on its lake islets, a mild climate, and elegant villas with gardens. The short crossing makes it a pleasant and culturally rich excursion from Porto Valtravaglia.
Porto Valtravaglia Tours and Activities
Comune di Porto Valtravaglia
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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 |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Porto Valtravaglia
- Hotel Del Lago Located right on the lakeside promenade, this family-run hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms, many with balconies and views of Lake Maggiore. Guests appreciate the on-site restaurant, central position near the ferry terminal, and easy access to the beach and cafés. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Saronni Situated in a quiet residential area close to the lake, this guesthouse offers a self-contained apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor terrace. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, private entrance, and short walk to the lakeshore and village centre. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo La Bersagliera Set in the hills above Porto Valtravaglia, about 10 minutes’ drive from the centre, this farmhouse offers rustic rooms, lake views, and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. Guests value the relaxed atmosphere, friendly hosts, and connection to local hiking routes. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Morissolina Located in the nearby hamlet of Domo, overlooking Lake Maggiore, this elegant villa offers spacious rooms in a historical building with a panoramic garden. Visitors enjoy the refined interiors, homemade breakfast, and tranquil setting above the lake. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B La Casa di Dori Positioned within walking distance of the centre and beach, this small B&B features bright, individually styled rooms and a garden. Guests appreciate the warm welcome, helpful local tips, and proximity to restaurants and lakeside walks. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Porto Valtravaglia
- Ristorante Albergo Del Sole: Located on the lakeside promenade in Porto Valtravaglia, this long-standing restaurant offers a refined menu featuring lake fish, fresh pasta, and seasonal Italian dishes. The elegant dining room and terrace with lake views make it well suited for relaxed lunches or special dinners. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Il Pescatore: Situated close to the harbour, Il Pescatore specialises in fish and seafood dishes, with a menu that includes risotto with perch, grilled fish, and seafood pasta. The informal setting and friendly service make it a reliable option for a quality meal by the lake. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Vecchia Fontana: Found in the upper part of the town, this family-run trattoria serves traditional regional dishes in a rustic and welcoming interior. The menu features polenta, braised meats, and homemade desserts, all prepared with local ingredients. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Lungo Lago: Located along the lakeside road, this casual pizzeria offers a wide selection of pizzas and classic Italian starters. It’s a good spot for a simple and affordable meal, with outdoor seating available in warmer weather. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Bar Trattoria Bellaria: Just outside the town centre, this small trattoria offers a short but satisfying menu of home-style Italian dishes including pasta, grilled meats, and vegetable sides. The quiet setting and personal service make it ideal for a low-key lunch. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Porto Valtravaglia Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Porto Valtravaglia
- Luino (approx. 10 km southeast of Porto Valtravaglia): A lively town located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Luino is known for its bustling weekly market, one of the largest in Italy. The town also offers a charming lakeside promenade, ideal for leisurely walks, and several cafes and restaurants with beautiful views of the lake. Visitors can also take boat trips on the lake or explore the nearby hills for hiking.
- Laveno-Mombello (approx. 15 km southwest of Porto Valtravaglia): Situated on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Laveno-Mombello is famous for its stunning lake views. The Laveno Funicular offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, and the town’s lakeside promenade is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Laveno-Mombello is also a popular base for hiking and boating activities.
- Cittiglio (approx. 15 km south of Porto Valtravaglia): A small town located in the Varese province, Cittiglio is known for its historic charm and proximity to the Parco Regionale del Campo dei Fiori, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic views, and the town’s quaint streets, which are home to local shops and cafes.
- Sesto Calende (approx. 20 km south of Porto Valtravaglia): Located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, Sesto Calende offers a peaceful lakeside atmosphere and a lovely historic centre. Visitors can enjoy boat trips on the lake or explore the nearby Parco del Ticino, a nature reserve with excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling.
- Varese (approx. 35 km southeast of Porto Valtravaglia): A beautiful town surrounded by the Campo dei Fiori mountain range, Varese is known for its parks, villas, and scenic views. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as Villa Panza and Villa Toeplitz, enjoy a walk in the town’s charming streets, or take in the views from the surrounding hills.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Porto Valtravaglia
By Rail: Porto Valtravaglia has its own train station, shared with Castelveccana, on the Luino–Gallarate railway line operated by Trenord. Trains run regularly between Porto Valtravaglia, Luino, and Gallarate, with onward connections to Milan. The total journey time from Milan to Porto Valtravaglia is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with a change at Gallarate. The station is located close to the centre of the village and within walking distance of the lakefront.
By Road: Porto Valtravaglia is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It lies around 90 kilometres north-west of Milan and approximately 35 kilometres north-west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69 lakeside road. From Varese, the journey takes around 50 minutes. Public parking is available in several locations throughout the town, including near the lake and railway station.
By Ferry: Porto Valtravaglia is served by Navigazione Laghi passenger ferry services on Lake Maggiore, with seasonal routes operating mainly between spring and autumn. Boats connect the town to other lakeside destinations including Luino, Cannero Riviera, Cannobio, Laveno-Mombello, and Intra. These services provide scenic access to both the Italian and Swiss shores of the lake. Vehicle ferry services do not operate from Porto Valtravaglia, but are available from Laveno-Mombello to Intra, located approximately 15 kilometres to the south.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Porto Valtravaglia is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, in the province of Varese. It lies around 90 kilometres north-west of Milan and approximately 35 kilometres north-west of Varese. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A8 motorway and SP69 lakeside road. From Varese, the journey takes around 50 minutes. Public parking is available in several locations throughout the town, including near the lake and railway station.
By Ferry: Porto Valtravaglia is served by Navigazione Laghi passenger ferry services on Lake Maggiore, with seasonal routes operating mainly between spring and autumn. Boats connect the town to other lakeside destinations including Luino, Cannero Riviera, Cannobio, Laveno-Mombello, and Intra. These services provide scenic access to both the Italian and Swiss shores of the lake. Vehicle ferry services do not operate from Porto Valtravaglia, but are available from Laveno-Mombello to Intra, located approximately 15 kilometres to the south.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located around 45 kilometres south of Porto Valtravaglia, the drive takes about 1 hour. Train connections are available via Gallarate.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated approximately 100 kilometres south-east of Porto Valtravaglia, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Travellers can also take a train from Milan Centrale to Gallarate, then continue to Porto Valtravaglia by regional service.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Roughly 120 kilometres south-east of Porto Valtravaglia, the drive takes approximately 2 hours. Public transport involves travel via Milan and Gallarate, followed by a regional train.
