Holidays to Baveno take you to the scenic shores of Lake Maggiore, home to lavish villas, Roman ruins and ornate landscaped gardens.

Majestic Maggiore

Sitting between the foothills of northern Italy's alpine mountains and the banks of Lake Maggiore, Baveno's big on natural beauty. This little terracotta-topped town's got views grand enough to need to capture on camera. Soak it all up from the lakefront promenade, espresso and biscotti in hand.

Urban experiences

If you're itching for a taste of cosmopolitan life, swing by the train station and head for Milan. With cathedrals, museums and the best shopping this side of the Med, you won't be stuck for things to do. End the day with a negroni sbagliato nightcap – a Milanese cocktail of prosecco, campari and red vermouth.

Scenic walks

It's easy to while away the hours strolling the town's winding maze of buildings, but there's more beyond the cobbles. The town of Stresa's just over a half-hour walk down the lake, taking you past Maggiore's picturesque islets. There's a little more going on here, from wining and dining to boat-tripping.

Out and about

Here are some ideas of things to do when staying in Baveno:

• Boat trips
• Botanical gardens
• Piazzas and local history

At a Glance

  • Catch a glimpse of a white peacock in the palace gardens, on the lovely Isola Bella
  • Listen to the smooth sounds of live jazz and blues in the Verbanella restaurant
  • Spend a day at the lakeside lido, sunbathing and swimming

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN BAVENO

BEACHES

SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE

FOOD & DRINK