Sulzano
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Latest page update: 3 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Sulzano is situated in the Province of Brescia, on the shores of Lake Iseo. It has a population of around 2,000 residents and is located a distance of 65 kilometres north east of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Monte Isola, Iseo, Sale Marasino, Marone, Vello and Lovere. |
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Sulzano Overview
Sulzano, located in the Lombardy region, is a charming village situated on the eastern shore of Lake Iseo. Known for its peaceful lakeside setting and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, Sulzano offers visitors a relaxing environment, ideal for those looking to explore the natural beauty and culture of the region. The village’s quiet streets and proximity to the lake make it a great base for discovering the wonders of Lake Iseo.
Sulzano is famous for its historic centre, which is home to traditional stone houses and narrow alleys that invite visitors to wander and soak in the town’s old-world charm. The village also gained international recognition in 2016 as the starting point for The Floating Piers, an art installation by Christo and Jeanne-Claude, which allowed people to walk on water, connecting Sulzano to Monte Isola. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sulzano offers access to hiking and cycling trails that lead through the surrounding hills, providing stunning views of Lake Iseo. Visitors can also enjoy boat tours or take a ferry to explore Monte Isola, the largest island in the lake. The town’s serene atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and cultural significance, makes it a memorable destination on Lake Iseo.
Sulzano is famous for its historic centre, which is home to traditional stone houses and narrow alleys that invite visitors to wander and soak in the town’s old-world charm. The village also gained international recognition in 2016 as the starting point for The Floating Piers, an art installation by Christo and Jeanne-Claude, which allowed people to walk on water, connecting Sulzano to Monte Isola. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sulzano offers access to hiking and cycling trails that lead through the surrounding hills, providing stunning views of Lake Iseo. Visitors can also enjoy boat tours or take a ferry to explore Monte Isola, the largest island in the lake. The town’s serene atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and cultural significance, makes it a memorable destination on Lake Iseo.
Top Things to Do in Sulzano
- Lakeside Promenade and Views of Monte Isola: The waterfront in Sulzano is one of the closest points to Monte Isola, offering clear views across the narrow channel separating the mainland from the island. The promenade is lined with cafés, benches, and small boat moorings, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Old Village Centre: The historic core of Sulzano includes narrow alleys, stone houses, and small piazzas with mountain views. The village retains its traditional structure, with several churches and chapels tucked among the buildings, reflecting its rural and religious past.
- Church of San Giorgio: Located on a hillside above the town, this small church offers a panoramic viewpoint over the lake. The walk to reach it passes through olive groves and terraced paths, and the church itself has a simple interior with historical frescoes and wooden furnishings.
- Walking Trails and Olive Groves: The hills surrounding Sulzano offer marked walking trails that pass through olive farms, woodland, and viewpoints over the lake. These trails connect to the Antica Via Valeriana, a historic route that continues north and south along the eastern shore of Lake Iseo.
- Ferry Crossing to Monte Isola: Sulzano is the main departure point for ferries to Monte Isola, with frequent connections throughout the day. The short crossing makes it the most convenient place to stay or start a visit to the island, which offers walking, cycling, and small lakeside villages to explore.
Comune di Sulzano
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Province: Brescia
Region: Lombardy Population: 1,941 (in 2024 - source) Size: 10 km² Elevation: 190 metres Highlights: Monte Isola ferries, lakeside beaches Travel facilities: ferry port, train station Close by: Monte Isola, Iseo, Sale Marasino, Marone, Vello, Lovere |
My recommended accommodation options for Sulzano:
- Hotel Rivalago Located directly on the lakefront, this elegant four-star hotel offers rooms with lake views, a private jetty, lakeside pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting, high-quality service, and ferry access to Monte Isola right outside the door. €€€€ (luxury)
- Locanda La Pernice Positioned above the town with panoramic views over Lake Iseo, this charming guesthouse features rustic-style rooms, a restaurant serving local dishes, and outdoor seating areas. Visitors enjoy the warm hospitality, quiet location, and scenic outlook. €€ (mid-range)
- Albergo Ristorante Orazio A family-run hotel set on the hillside with views over the lake, offering simple, comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy parking. Guests value the traditional atmosphere, good food, and convenient access to Sulzano's centre. €€ (mid-range)
- La Casa di Gabri A private holiday apartment within walking distance of the lake and ferry terminal, featuring a well-equipped kitchen, outdoor seating, and a peaceful residential setting. Guests enjoy the cleanliness, independence, and proximity to lakeside walks and boat trips. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Vacanze Sulzano A small selection of self-catering flats located close to the water, each with terraces or balconies, lake views, and access to a shared garden. Visitors appreciate the location for exploring Monte Isola and the quiet charm of the town. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Sulzano and the local area:
- Trattoria Cacciatore: Located in the heart of Sulzano, Trattoria Cacciatore offers traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, including local specialties such as lake fish. The restaurant features a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Veranda – Hotel Rivalago: Situated within the Hotel Rivalago, this restaurant provides a refined dining experience with views of Lake Iseo. The menu includes Italian and Mediterranean dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Locanda Pernice77: Found in a tranquil area of Sulzano, Locanda Pernice77 specializes in local cuisine, including lake fish and homemade pasta. The outdoor seating area offers scenic views, enhancing the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Il Toscano: Located near the town centre, Trattoria Il Toscano offers a variety of Italian dishes, including regional specialties and barbecue options. The friendly staff and comfortable setting make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pasticceria Arte Del Dolce: Situated in the heart of Sulzano, this pastry shop offers a variety of Italian desserts and pastries, including tiramisu and cannoli. The friendly staff and wide selection make it a popular spot for those with a sweet tooth. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Sulzano Gallery
Close to Sulzano
- Iseo (approx. 10 km southeast of Sulzano): A charming town on the shores of Lake Iseo, Iseo offers a beautiful lakeside promenade and a lively historic centre. Visitors can explore the Piazza Garibaldi, visit the Chiesa di San Silvestro, or take a boat trip to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking and enjoying local wines.
- Pisogne (approx. 15 km northeast of Sulzano): Located on the northern shore of Lake Iseo, Pisogne is known for its charming lakeside setting and the remarkable Chiesa di Santa Maria della Neve, which features stunning frescoes. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere, with cafes along the water and scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Monte Isola (approx. 10 km west of Sulzano): Easily accessible by boat from Sulzano, Monte Isola is a peaceful island known for its scenic beauty and traditional villages. Visitors can explore its narrow streets, enjoy the picturesque views from Santuario della Madonna della Ceriola at the top of the island, or take a leisurely bike ride around the island's perimeter.
- Sale Marasino (approx. 5 km north of Sulzano): A quiet lakeside village on Lake Iseo, Sale Marasino offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the local churches, enjoy a relaxing day by the lake, or take part in the Sagra della Madonna delle Grazie, a traditional festival held each year in the town.
- Lovere (approx. 20 km north of Sulzano): A historic town on the northern shore of Lake Iseo, Lovere is known for its charming medieval centre, the beautiful Piazza Tredici Martiri, and the Chiesa di San Giorgio. The town offers scenic lakeside walks, a number of art galleries, and is an excellent starting point for hiking in the surrounding Val Cavallina.
Sulzano Travel
By Rail: Sulzano has its own railway station on the Brescia–Iseo–Edolo line, providing regular regional train services. Trains from Brescia to Sulzano take approximately 40 minutes, while from Iseo, the journey is about 10 minutes. The station is centrally located, within walking distance of the town centre and the ferry terminal.
By Road: Sulzano is approximately 100 kilometres east of Milan and about 35 kilometres northwest of Brescia. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Rovato and then following the SP510 road towards Iseo and Sulzano. From Brescia, the journey takes approximately 40 minutes via the SP510. The roads leading to Sulzano are well-maintained, offering scenic views of Lake Iseo.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Iseo Ferries: Sulzano is a main departure point for ferries to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Italy. Crossings to Peschiera Maraglio on Monte Isola run approximately every 15 minutes during the day, with a journey time of around 5 minutes. Additional ferry routes connect Sulzano to other towns around Lake Iseo, including Carzano and Sale Marasino. Ferry schedules vary seasonally and should be checked in advance.
By Road: Sulzano is approximately 100 kilometres east of Milan and about 35 kilometres northwest of Brescia. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway, exiting at Rovato and then following the SP510 road towards Iseo and Sulzano. From Brescia, the journey takes approximately 40 minutes via the SP510. The roads leading to Sulzano are well-maintained, offering scenic views of Lake Iseo.
Nearest International Airports:
- Orio al Serio International Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Located about 60 kilometres west of Sulzano, the drive takes approximately 1 hour via the A4 motorway. From the airport, travellers can take a shuttle to Bergamo station, then a train to Brescia, followed by a regional train to Sulzano.
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Villafranca): Situated around 85 kilometres southeast of Sulzano, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway. Public transport options involve travelling via Verona Porta Nuova to Brescia, then continuing by regional train to Sulzano.
Lake Iseo Ferries: Sulzano is a main departure point for ferries to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Italy. Crossings to Peschiera Maraglio on Monte Isola run approximately every 15 minutes during the day, with a journey time of around 5 minutes. Additional ferry routes connect Sulzano to other towns around Lake Iseo, including Carzano and Sale Marasino. Ferry schedules vary seasonally and should be checked in advance.
