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Holidays to Stresa combine all the natural beauty of a mountain valley escape with Italy's proud pastimes of wining, dining and shopping.

Lost in the lanes

When it comes to location, Stresa's got it made. Tucked between northern Italy's mighty mountains and the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore, it's well-placed for adventure and unbeatable views. That's if you can tear yourself away from the traditional restaurants, wine bars and cobbled piazzas of town.

The great outdoors

You don't have to brave a brisk dip to explore the lake – ferries operate between Stresa and Pallanza, and it's worth the trip just to spy on those picturesque Borromean Islands.

Sights near and far

Stresa impresses with its own churches, statues and villas – and the nearby Borromean Islands have palaces to boot. If you really want to indulge in ancient history, hop on the train to Milan. This northern city's brimming with landmarks and museums, not to mention cosmopolitan eateries and trendy cocktail bars.

Out and about

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

• Boat trips
• Botanical gardens
• Rooftop bars

Further Reading

  • Travel Advice
  • Things To Do

    • At a Glance

    • Marvel at grand villas by the lakeside
    • Sample a glass or two of the regional wines
    • Hop on a ferry across the bay to Pallanza
    • Prep for your trip with our Holiday Extras

    Location

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    Best time to go to Stresa

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    Top things to see and do in Stresa

    The beach bar

    On the edge of Stresa you'll find the LOV beach bar. There's a stony beach area, nine-hole minigolf course and bar, as well as sunbeds and umbrellas to rent. It's quieter than some of the other beaches in Stresa, so head here to grab a drink from the bar and sit back and relax on a lounger with a top view of the lake.

    Pebble beaches

    In the centre of Stresa, opposite the Hotel Astoria and Hotel Regina Palace, there’s a small pebble beach that's free to the public. In some areas, sun loungers and parasols are available to rent, and roped-off swimming areas are clearly marked. Nearby, there’s the Lido Blu and Caffe Bar Verbanella where you can get refreshments through the day.

    The sandy shores of Feriolo

    If you’re looking for a new beach to explore during your holiday, head to Feriolo. It’s two villages north of Stresa and has a large, peaceful sand beach. Sun loungers are not available to rent, so you’ll need to take something to lie on. The tiny town has several charming restaurants along the lakefront, too, for an afternoon wander and a spritz.

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    Bargain Buys

    The Stresa market is not to be missed. It runs every Friday until 1pm, in Piazza Capucci in the centre of the town. You’ll find everything from clothing and souvenirs, to leather goods and local art and crafts. The market moves from town to town around the lake each day, so if Friday isn’t good for you, try a nearby town on another day.

    Mid-range Buys

    Stresa has many boutiques as well as chain shops, too. You can buy clothing, jewellery and books, and visit the deli shops to try meats and cheeses. In Gravellona Toce, 8km from Stresa, there are two large shopping centres. The centres are opposite one another and have shops selling jewellery, electronics, clothing, sportswear and much more. Gravellona Toce also has several large supermarkets.

    Designer Buys

    Some shops and boutiques in the area sell some designer products, but if you’re really looking to treat yourself, take a trip to the fashion capital of Europe – Milan. It’s just 1 hour 10 minutes by train from Stresa train station. Brands such as Gucci, Prada and Versace are just the start of what’s on offer, lining the city’s glitzy shopping streets.

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    Lively Evenings

    Every Thursday and Saturday from June onwards, head to the lakefront restaurant Verbanella for evening entertainment. From around 8pm, people from all around come to watch live jazz and blues music. Free concerts and events take place throughout the summer, sometimes with firework displays out on the lake, too.

    Laid-Back Evenings

    For a more relaxed evening, make your way to one of the best panoramic viewpoints of Stresa – the rooftop Sky Bar in Hotel La Palma. Grab a drink, sit back and admire the stunning views. If you prefer your feet on the ground, treat yourself to an ice-cream from L'Angolo del Gelato in the main piazza and take a stroll along the promenade.

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    Eating out

    Stresa’s lakeside promenade is lined with bars and cafés, which have wonderful views of the Borromean Islands. However, you’ll find cheaper and more traditional restaurants if you head into the backstreets and piazzas. Definitely try some mussiltini – lake fish often served with pasta – if you want to eat like a local.

    Pizza with a personal twist at Mamma Mia

    In the backstreets of Stresa, you’ll find Ristorante Pizzeria Mamma Mia, serving Italian cuisine at pretty reasonable prices. The staff are really attentive and, if your favourite pizza isn’t on the menu, they’re happy to accommodate your own choice of toppings.

    Quieter fine-dining at Il Vicoletto

    For a fine dining experience, Il Vicoletto should be on your list. You'll find it in the quieter streets of Stresa, set back off the main road. This restaurant is highly regarded for its extensive menu, helpful staff and freshly prepared dishes. It's a little pricier but worth it, and we recommend you book in advance.

    A family touch at Caffé Torino

    Serving food in Stresa since 1904, Caffé Torino is perfectly placed in the centre of town. It has a large outdoor seating area and a great selection of typical Italian cuisine, including pizzas, pastas, meat, fish and vegetarian dishes.

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    Our experiences

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    Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac

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