Explore the iconic lakes of Northern Italy—Como, Garda, and Maggiore—on these 10-day walking holidays. Immerse yourself in the charm of chic towns, stunning shorelines, and lavish villas amidst breathtaking landscapes. Embark on invigorating hikes around and above the lakes, enjoy scenic ferry and cable car rides, indulge in incredible Italian cuisine and stay in quality accommodation. With seamless logistics and expert guides, experience a perfect blend of hiking and cultural exploration across these legendary lakes.
Upon your arrival in Milan, immerse ourselves in the bustling energy of this cosmopolitan city, known as Italy’s vibrant fashion capital. After exploring Milan, we embark on a scenic train journey to Baveno, a charming lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore. As we settle into our accommodations, we take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
Straight from our hotel, we embark on an exhilarating hike to Monte Crocino, traversing forested trails and rocky ridges. Along the way, we are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the picturesque shoreline below, making for unforgettable memories.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation: +800 m / -800 m (+2,625 ft / -2,625 ft)
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
We board a ferry from Baveno to Laveno, treating ourselves to a delightful cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Maggiore. Upon arrival in Baveno, we quickly gain altitude with a thrilling ride on the cable-car to the summit of Sasso del Ferro, where we enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Alps. From there, we embark on a scenic hike from Pizzo di Laveno to Virasca. Along the way, we immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region. Afterward, we go to our accommodation and enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Elevation: +400 m / -900 m (+1,312 ft / -2,953 ft)
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
Today, we bid farewell to Baveno as we travel by a private transfer to Como, a charming lakeside city nestled at the southern tip of Lake Como. Upon arrival, we’ll spend the day exploring Como’s historic center, strolling along its scenic waterfront promenades, and visiting iconic landmarks such as the Como Cathedral and the Villa Olmo.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
Today, we’ll first embark on a picturesque ferry ride from Como to Roiano, savoring the stunning views of Lake Como along the way. Our hike takes us from Monte Colmegnone to Urio, where we traverse gorgeous trails and lush forests. As we ascend to higher elevations, we are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Elevation: +1,100 m / -1,100 m (+3,609 ft / -3,609 ft)
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
A scenic ferry ride from Como to Casate awaits us in the morning, offering panoramic views of Lake Como’s tranquil waters and picturesque shoreline. Upon arrival, we explore the charming town of Bellagio, known for its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning botanical gardens. We wander through its quaint streets, soaking in the beauty of this picturesque lakeside gem.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Elevation: +800 m / -800 m (+2,625 ft / -2,625 ft)
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
We travel by train from Como to Bergamo, a historic city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and medieval architecture. Upon arrival, we transfer to Riva del Garda—also known as the pearl of Garda—a picturesque lakeside town nestled on the shores of the lake. Here, we enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, taking in the stunning views of the lake and indulging in a typical Italian aperitif.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
Today is an e-bike day! We are in the European capital of biking where an e-bike ride tour is a must-do. Together we will rent e-bikes (included) and enjoy a wonderful tour through ancient villages, castles and viewpoints followed by a short hike to a magical place not otherwise accessible on foot. Possibility of lunch in one of the many typical local restaurants or even in an alpine “rifugio”. Effortless return on your own bike all the way down to Riva del Garda.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
The Busatte-Tempesta trail is a scenic cliffside hike overlooking Lake Garda, offering panoramic views of the water and surrounding mountains. The route features well-maintained paths and wooden walkways anchored to the rock, with varying elevation and some stair sections. It’s a relatively short loop suitable for most hikers, taking about 3-4 hours depending on pace and stops. Expect dramatic viewpoints, Mediterranean vegetation, and several spots ideal for photos.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Elevation: +400 m / -400 m (+1,315 ft / -1,315 ft)
Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel/B&B
From Riva del Garda to Rovereto train station by private transfer and then, for those who need to be back in Milan, by train to Milano Centrale, bidding farewell to the great lakes of Italy as we depart for home or our next destination, cherishing the memories of our unforgettable adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore.
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Not included:
To join these walking holidays around Italian lakes, you should have a moderate level of fitness and be comfortable with full-day hikes. A stable, sure-footed pace is important, and a strong fear of heights may make some sections tricky.
Each day, expect to hike 4 to 6 hours, and the most you’ll walk within a day is up to 20 km (12.5 miles), with most days significantly shorter. Some stretches are more demanding, but your guide will set the pace, call the breaks, and make sure everyone’s safe and having a good time. Check out day-by-day distances and elevation changes in the itinerary!
Not every day is a hiking day, either—some are set aside for transfers and sightseeing, so there’s a good balance throughout.
Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Italy hiking tours here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Bring comfortable clothes appropriate for the season. We suggest checking the forecast and adjusting your list accordingly. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
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Group sizes and pricing
This hiking tour around the Great Italian Lakes of Como, Garda, and Maggiore can be arranged for private and for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Baveno, a town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, most people first fly into Milan Malpensa Airport. From there, reach Milan by trail and then onto Laveno by train or private transfer.
We recommend arriving in Laveno the evening before the tour begins. If you need an extra night’s stay at the same hotel where you’ll stay on Day 1 of the tour, please let us know at checkout.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.