Stresa
Stresa
|
Latest page update: 1 April 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The lakeside town of Stresa is situated in the Verbano Cusio Ossola Province, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. It has a population of around 5,000 residents and is located 138 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.
Perhaps the most famous town around the lake, it works well both as a resort and as a base from which to explore its other sights. |
|
What People Ask About Stresa
Where is Stresa located?
What is Stresa famous for?
Can you visit the Borromean Islands from Stresa?
Does Stresa have a train station?
Is Stresa a good place to stay on Lake Maggiore?
Related links
Liberty-style grandeur
It wasn't until the early twentieth century that Stresa became a popular tourist destination but by the 1920's and 1930's and the advent of international rail travel, it was booming. The elegant Liberty-style buildings looking out on to the lake create a sense of grandeur which is repeated around the small town centre.
The busiest area of the town is around Piazza Cadorna, a tree-lined and triangular-shaped piazza edged with restaurants and shops. This is a great place for a spot of people-watching and to soak up the town's relaxed atmosphere. Piazza Cadorna is set back just a little bit from the lake, accessed from the narrow Via Principe Tommaso which along with Via Roma, is one of the main shopping streets in the town.
The busiest area of the town is around Piazza Cadorna, a tree-lined and triangular-shaped piazza edged with restaurants and shops. This is a great place for a spot of people-watching and to soak up the town's relaxed atmosphere. Piazza Cadorna is set back just a little bit from the lake, accessed from the narrow Via Principe Tommaso which along with Via Roma, is one of the main shopping streets in the town.
Lakeside walks
The centrepiece of Stresa is its lakefront where you can take a long, ambling walk in either direction or around the carefully-manicured Giardini Pubblici at the lake's edge. The walk along the lakeside will take you past Stresa's collection of grand palazzi, most of which are hotels, that go a long way to create the town's sense of grandeur.
If you take a 15 minute walk south-east of the town centre along the main lakeside road, you'll reach the beautiful gardens of Villa Pallavicino. For anyone with a passing interest in gardens, this is an area where you're spoilt for choice.
From Piazza Marconi at the water's edge in the town centre, you can use the Lake Maggiore ferry network to access all of the many highlights around the lake. One of the favourite excursions from here is to take the short hop across to the beautiful Borromean Islands.
If you take a 15 minute walk south-east of the town centre along the main lakeside road, you'll reach the beautiful gardens of Villa Pallavicino. For anyone with a passing interest in gardens, this is an area where you're spoilt for choice.
From Piazza Marconi at the water's edge in the town centre, you can use the Lake Maggiore ferry network to access all of the many highlights around the lake. One of the favourite excursions from here is to take the short hop across to the beautiful Borromean Islands.
The Borromean Islands
The islands are clearly visible from Stresa: the Isola dei Pescatori offers picture-postcard scenes from the lake's shore while Isola Bella is as beautiful as its name suggests with its white peacocks roaming freely around a spectacular garden.
A little further towards the centre of the lake, a third island of the group, Isola Madre has its own beautiful garden and its own, multi-coloured peacocks. From Isola Madre it's just a short hop across the lake to the city of Verbania which can boast Italy's most beautiful garden at Villa Taranto.
A little further towards the centre of the lake, a third island of the group, Isola Madre has its own beautiful garden and its own, multi-coloured peacocks. From Isola Madre it's just a short hop across the lake to the city of Verbania which can boast Italy's most beautiful garden at Villa Taranto.
Exploring beyond Stresa
Nearby treasures are not merely restricted to the lake; on the land side you can take a cable car up the 1,492 metres to Mount Mottarone which overlooks Stresa. A different form of transport can be used for another popular excursion from the town: the Lago Maggiore Express is a scenic train ride through the nearby Centovalli region.
From Stresa you first take a train north to the town of Domodossola before boarding a narrow-gauge train through the picturesque hills and valleys before arriving at the town of Locarno, across the Swiss border at the northern end of the lake. From Locarno you then take a leisurely cruise down the lake back to Stresa for a wonderful day out.
To reach Stresa from abroad it's best to fly into Milan Malpensa Airport which is just under an hour away by car or slightly longer with the Alibus transfer. You can also reach Stresa by train: from Milan it takes an hour and seven minutes with the same train continuing north to Domodossola.
From Stresa you first take a train north to the town of Domodossola before boarding a narrow-gauge train through the picturesque hills and valleys before arriving at the town of Locarno, across the Swiss border at the northern end of the lake. From Locarno you then take a leisurely cruise down the lake back to Stresa for a wonderful day out.
To reach Stresa from abroad it's best to fly into Milan Malpensa Airport which is just under an hour away by car or slightly longer with the Alibus transfer. You can also reach Stresa by train: from Milan it takes an hour and seven minutes with the same train continuing north to Domodossola.
Comune di Stresa
|
Province: Verbano Cusio Ossola
Region: Piedmont Population: 4,657 (in 2024 - source) Size: 33 km² Elevation: 200 metres Highlights: Piazza Cadorna, Giardini Pubblici, architecture Close by: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, Baveno, Villa Taranto |
My recommended accommodation options for Stresa:
- Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées A historic five-star hotel set on the lakefront, offering opulent rooms and suites, beautifully maintained gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, and a luxurious spa. Guests appreciate the grand architecture, lakeside location near the town centre, and views over the Borromean Islands. €€€€ (luxury)
- Hotel La Palma Located just a short walk from central Stresa, this elegant four-star hotel features modern rooms, a rooftop spa and pool, and a lakefront terrace bar. Visitors enjoy the stylish interiors, excellent breakfast, and direct access to the promenade. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Astoria Situated opposite the lake and close to the ferry terminal, this well-rated hotel offers comfortable rooms—many with balconies and lake views—an outdoor pool, and a garden. Guests value the central location, good facilities, and convenient parking. €€€ (high-end)
- Boutique Hotel Elvezia Located on Isola Bella, just a short boat ride from Stresa, this boutique hotel features rooms with lake-view balconies and an on-site restaurant. Visitors enjoy the unique setting, refined décor, and quiet evenings after day visitors leave the island. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Boston A family-run hotel in a quieter part of town, just a few minutes' walk from the lake, offering simple, well-kept rooms and a breakfast buffet. Guests appreciate the friendly service, value for money, and easy access to both the town and the lake ferries. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Stresa:
- Ristorante La Stresa: Located near the lakeside, Ristorante La Stresa offers a variety of traditional Italian and Mediterranean dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The outdoor seating area provides beautiful views of Lake Maggiore, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Due Piccioni: Situated in the heart of Stresa, Trattoria Due Piccioni specializes in traditional Piemontese cuisine, including dishes such as risotto and braised meats. The rustic interior and attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere for an authentic dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Portico: Found near the town centre, Ristorante Il Portico offers a range of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including seafood, pasta, and grilled meats. The elegant setting and impeccable service make it an ideal place for a special meal. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Belvedere: Located along the promenade, Ristorante Belvedere serves a variety of Italian and seafood dishes, including fresh fish and local specialties. The outdoor terrace offers panoramic views of Lake Maggiore, making it a scenic place to enjoy a leisurely meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Caffè Torino: Situated in the heart of Stresa, Caffè Torino offers light meals, snacks, and drinks, including traditional Italian pastries and coffee. The relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the town's attractions make it an ideal spot for a quick bite or coffee break. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Stresa Gallery
Close to Stresa
- Isola Bella (approx. 400 metres from Stresa): Famous for its stunning Baroque palace and terraced Italianate gardens, Isola Bella is a must-visit. The Borromeo Palace is an architectural masterpiece, surrounded by lush gardens with views of the lake. The island offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for exploring its historical buildings and beautiful landscapes.
- Isola dei Pescatori (approx. 1 km from Stresa): Also known as Isola Superiore, Isola dei Pescatori is the only inhabited island in the Borromean Islands. The island features narrow streets, quaint houses, and a variety of seafood restaurants, creating a charming and laid-back vibe. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal by the water, with freshly caught fish from the lake.
- Baveno (approx. 5 km south of Stresa): A serene town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Baveno is known for its distinctive pink granite buildings, which have been a hallmark of the region for centuries. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the lakeside promenade, visit the Chiesa dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio, or take a boat trip to the nearby islands.
- Villa Taranto (approx. 15 km east of Stresa, in Verbania): Villa Taranto is renowned for its beautifully landscaped botanical gardens, home to a vast collection of plants from across the globe. The meticulously maintained gardens offer a tranquil escape, with stunning views of the lake, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
- Lago di Mergozzo (approx. 20 km northwest of Stresa): A smaller, quieter lake just north of Lake Maggiore, Lago di Mergozzo is celebrated for its clear waters and peaceful surroundings. It is an excellent location for a relaxing day out, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, and exploring the nearby village of Mergozzo.
Stresa Travel
By Rail: Stresa is served by its own railway station on the Domodossola–Milan line. Regional trains connect Stresa with Milan in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and with Domodossola in about 40 minutes. The station is centrally located, providing easy access to the town centre.
By Road: Stresa is approximately 90 km northwest of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A8 and A26 motorways, exiting at Carpugnino and following signs for Stresa. From Turin, the journey is about 140 km, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A4 and A26 motorways.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Maggiore Ferry Services:
Stresa serves as a key departure point for ferry services on Lake Maggiore. Regular ferries connect Stresa with various destinations around the lake, including the Borromean Islands, Verbania, and Baveno. Services range from standard ferries to faster hydrofoils. Ferry schedules and ticket prices vary seasonally; it's advisable to check the current timetables and fares before planning your trip
By Road: Stresa is approximately 90 km northwest of Milan. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A8 and A26 motorways, exiting at Carpugnino and following signs for Stresa. From Turin, the journey is about 140 km, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A4 and A26 motorways.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 50 km south of Stresa, the drive takes approximately 50 minutes via the A26 motorway. From the airport, travellers can take a train to Busto Arsizio and transfer to a regional train to Stresa.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 110 km southeast of Stresa, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A8 and A26 motorways. Train services are available from Milan to Stresa as described above.
Lake Maggiore Ferry Services:
Stresa serves as a key departure point for ferry services on Lake Maggiore. Regular ferries connect Stresa with various destinations around the lake, including the Borromean Islands, Verbania, and Baveno. Services range from standard ferries to faster hydrofoils. Ferry schedules and ticket prices vary seasonally; it's advisable to check the current timetables and fares before planning your trip
