The Italian summer is not only about the sea: far from the crowded coastlines lined with sunbeds and parasols, there exists another country made of equally crystal-clear waters, mountains, forests, and small villages perched along the water’s reflective surfaces.
On the occasion of the Lakes Day 2026, we selected eight of the most beautiful lakes in Italy: some are timeless classics known worldwide, others are quieter and more surprising corners, but all have something special to tell.
Molveno Lake, Trentino
At the foot of the Brenta Dolomites, Molveno Lake is one of the most spectacular lake landscapes in Trentino. Its clear waters shift hue with the light and stand in contrast to the green of the woods and the peaks of the mountains.
It is a perfect destination for those seeking an active nature vacation: around the lake you can hike, cycle, and engage in water sports, or simply relax along its shores.
Mis Lake, Veneto
Less known than the great northern lakes or the more famous Italian seaside towns, Mis Lake is an ideal destination for those who prefer wilder landscapes and to get away from the busiest tourist spots.
This sheet of water lies within the territory of the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, surrounded by mountains, forests, and rocky walls. The lake sits in a natural landscape where the water becomes the starting point for exploring trails and scenic viewpoints. Among the zone’s attractions are also the Cadini del Brenton, a series of pools and waterfalls carved by water over the centuries.
Scanno Lake, Abruzzo
In Abruzzo there is a lake that seems made specifically to be photographed from above: Scanno Lake, famous for its heart-shaped form. Surrounded by the mountains of the Sagittario Valley, it is one of the most recognizable landscapes of the Abruzzo Apennines. The best way to appreciate its distinctive shape is to reach The Heart Path, a panoramic route that allows you to observe the lake from above.
A visit can be paired with a stop in Scanno, one of Abruzzo’s most fascinating villages, with stone alleys, traditional architecture, and ancient traditions still alive.
Iseo Lake, Lombardy
The Lago d’Iseo, in Lombardy, is one of Italy’s most interesting lake destinations for a weekend escape. Its symbol is Monte Isola, the large island rising in the middle of the lake, which can be explored on foot or by bike, among small villages, panoramic climbs, and water-facing viewpoints.
Around the lake you’ll find places such as Iseo, Sarnico, and Lovere, plus numerous paths to stroll along the shores. And then there’s Franciacorta, not far away: a combination that lets a simple lake getaway become an itinerary through nature, villages, gastronomy, and wine cellars.
Lake Garda, Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino
It is almost impossible to discuss the most beautiful Italian lakes without mentioning Lake Garda. The largest Italian lake stretches across three regions (Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino), and that variety is one of its greatest strengths. The landscape changes constantly: from the northern mountains to lakeside towns, up to olive groves and lemon groves in the southern part.
Among the places not to miss are Sirmione, Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda and Malcesine, but also less obvious destinations like Gardone Riviera and Toscolano Maderno.
Lake Maggiore, Piedmont and Lombardy
Lake Maggiore, shared between Piedmont, Lombardy and Switzerland, is one of the most elegant and scenic lakes in Italy. Its most emblematic feature are the Borromean Islands, in front of Stresa: Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori offer an itinerary among historic palaces, gardens, small villages and lake panoramas.
Along its shores you’ll find places like Stresa, Verbania and Cannobio, while to the north the landscape gradually becomes more mountainous. Among the places to discover is Cannero Riviera, with its fortified islets that rise from the lake waters.
Lake Orta, Piedmont
Small, intimate, and surrounded by mountains, Lake Orta offers an atmosphere completely different from the large northern lakes. Its heart is Orta San Giulio, a village perched on the water characterized by cobbled streets, historic palaces, and squares that seem suspended in time.
Opposite the village you’ll find Isola di San Giulio, dominated by the Romanesque basilica and reachable in just a few minutes by boat.
Braies Lake, South Tyrol
Probably one of the most photographed Italian lakes on social media, Braies Lake needs no introduction and stands as the star of our Tyrolean selection. Located in the heart of the Dolomites, the lake is famous for its turquoise waters, the surrounding mountains, and the distinctive wooden boats that can be admired along the shore.
The panorama changes completely with the seasons: in summer the contrast between water and the green forests dominates, while in autumn the colors of the foliage transform the landscape.
