Baveno, Lake Maggiore: What to See and Do

Discover a charming lakeside town in Piedmont, where the mountains meet the water and some of Lake Maggiore's most beautiful places are just a short journey away.

There are places that seem to invite you to slow down almost without asking. Baveno, on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in Piedmont, is one of them.

Set on the shores of the Borromean Gulf, with the mountains rising behind it and the lake opening towards the Borromean Islands, Baveno combines the beauty of a traditional Italian lakeside town with an enviable location for exploring the surrounding area. 

It is peaceful without feeling remote, small enough to discover on foot, yet perfectly placed for day trips to Stresa, the Borromean Islands, Feriolo and the many walking and cycling routes that lead into the surrounding hills.

Whether you are planning a relaxing holiday in Baveno, a long weekend on Lake Maggiore or a base for exploring Piedmont, this little town offers plenty of reasons to stay for a while.

Baveno: a little town with a long history

At first glance, Baveno is all about the lake: its waterfront, gardens, elegant villas and views across the water. Look a little closer, however, and its history begins to emerge.

The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological remains dating back to the Neolithic period found around Feriolo. Roman remains have also been discovered, while the historic centre of Baveno is home to the Romanesque church complex of Saints Gervasio and Protasio.

One of the town's most distinctive features is its pink granite. Quarrying became particularly important from the sixteenth century onwards, and Baveno granite was used in numerous important buildings and monuments, especially in Milan. The stone became an important part of the local economy and identity, and the history of the picasass — the local stonecutters — can still be discovered along the area's walking routes.

This connection between stone, mountains and water is still part of what makes Baveno feel different from other destinations on Lake Maggiore.

Beaches, swimming and slow summer days

One of the simplest pleasures of staying in Baveno is being able to spend a summer day beside the lake.

There are several places to swim and relax around Baveno and nearby Feriolo. The beach at Villa Fedora sits within a beautiful green park, with trees and gardens extending towards the lakeshore, while the Lido of Baveno offers an equipped beach with facilities for a more traditional day by the water.

Just a few kilometres away, Feriolo has a particularly welcoming lakeside setting, with a sandy beach and gently sloping shallow waters. Its waterfront is lined with cafés and restaurants, making it easy to combine a swim with a leisurely lunch or an evening aperitivo.

And sometimes, of course, there is no need to plan anything more ambitious.

A morning by the water, a good book in the shade, a swim in the lake and dinner overlooking the sunset can be more than enough.

What to do in Baveno

If you are wondering what to do in Baveno, the answer depends very much on the kind of day you are looking for.

You can start with a simple walk along the lakefront, taking your time to enjoy the views and the gardens before wandering into the historic centre. The monumental church complex, old stone buildings and small streets offer glimpses of the town's past, while the waterfront provides some of the best views towards the Borromean Islands.

For something more active, Baveno is surrounded by walking and hiking routes. Trails lead from the lakeside towards the hills and mountain villages, including routes to Monte Camoscio, Feriolo, the hamlets of Romanico and Loita, and onward towards Mottarone. One particularly scenic itinerary connects Baveno with Stresa through the hills, combining lake views with woodland paths.

Cycling is another wonderful way to explore the area, particularly for those who enjoy combining quieter roads, villages and panoramic views.

And then there is the lake itself. Boat trips offer a completely different perspective on the landscape and provide an easy way to reach some of Lake Maggiore's best-known destinations.

Baveno and its surroundings

One of the great advantages of staying in Baveno is its location.

You do not have to choose between a peaceful lakeside base and easy access to the highlights of Lake Maggiore. From Baveno, some of the area's most beautiful destinations are close enough for a day trip.

Stresa is just along the lake and is one of the most famous towns on Lake Maggiore, known for its elegant waterfront, historic hotels, gardens and views towards the Borromean Islands. It can even be reached from Baveno by a walking route through the surrounding countryside.

Then there are the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. Their gardens, palaces, narrow lanes and lakeside views make them one of the essential experiences of Lake Maggiore.

Closer to home, Feriolo offers a more intimate atmosphere, while Mergozzo and Belgirate are wonderful choices for those who enjoy discovering smaller lakeside villages away from the busiest tourist routes.

For walkers and nature lovers, the mountains provide another side of the area. From Baveno, trails lead towards Monte Camoscio and higher into the landscape around Mottarone, where the scenery opens up over Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains (See below: Photo: Marco Benedetto Cerini — Archivio Fotografico Distretto Turistico dei Laghi).

This is perhaps Baveno's greatest strength: it is small enough to feel peaceful, but perfectly placed for discovering more of Lake Maggiore.

Events in Baveno

Although Baveno has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, there is always something happening, particularly during the warmer months.

The town's annual programme includes music, cultural events, food and wine, exhibitions, outdoor activities and celebrations taking place both in Baveno and in Feriolo. The programme changes from year to year, so it is worth checking the official Baveno events calendar when planning your stay.

Among the events that have become particularly distinctive are BaVinum, an evening dedicated to local wines, food and live music in the setting of Villa Fedora, and Baveno e Feriolo d'Incanto, a summer celebration that brings lights, colours, music and spectacular visual installations to the two lakefronts.

These events add another dimension to a stay in Baveno: even after a quiet day by the lake, there may be a concert, a local celebration or an evening event waiting just around the corner.

Where to stay in Baveno

Choosing where to stay can make a real difference to a holiday on Lake Maggiore.

For a couple looking for a peaceful base, Dolce Far Niente is designed for two and offers a cosy, recently refreshed space where everything has been thoughtfully arranged for a comfortable stay.

Its location in Baveno makes it easy to enjoy the lake, explore nearby towns and islands, or simply return home after a day out and slow down again.

There is a small kitchen for relaxed breakfasts and simple meals, a comfortable living area and a bright, recently renovated bathroom. And, of course, there is the terrace: a quiet place to sit, enjoy the view and remember that sometimes the best part of a holiday is having nowhere else to be.

Whether you are planning a weekend in Baveno, a longer Lake Maggiore holiday or a few peaceful days exploring Piedmont, Baveno offers a lovely balance between discovery and relaxation.

Come for the lake, stay for the views — and give yourself time to enjoy both.