Best Places to Visit Around Lake Maggiore in March
Written by Our Hidden Earth Editorial Team
Last updated 23 October 2026
Summary: March is a transitional time on Lake Maggiore, where visitors can enjoy the quiet bloom of early spring gardens in Stresa and the Verbania botanical parks before the summer crowds arrive. This season suits travellers looking for contemplative walks along the water and off-peak access to historic villas.
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Lake Maggiore in March: at a glance
Stresa serves as an ideal base for ferry access to the islands and mountain rail routes.
The Borromean Islands are the primary sights, though outdoor activity levels remain dictated by late-winter temperatures.
Gardens begin their seasonal shifts, though full displays depend on the specific timing of the spring thaw.
Public transport remains reliable, with regular ferry services connecting the lakeside towns.
Is March a good time to visit Lake Maggiore?
March is a pragmatic choice for travellers who prefer a slower pace and are not seeking the warm temperatures of the high summer season. It represents the quiet interval between the winter stillness and the onset of the busy spring travel period.
While the lake environment retains a brisk quality, the benefit lies in exploring historic sites, botanical gardens, and local town centres without the pressure of peak demand. The month suits those comfortable with layered clothing and the occasional cool breeze, offering an authentic look at life in the lakeside communities as they prepare for the influx of visitors later in the year.
It is a time for observation rather than swimming, where the focus is on the scale of the architecture and the depth of the mountain scenery.
Weather in Lake Maggiore in March
Conditions in March across Lake Maggiore are characterised by variability, with the surrounding Alps acting as a barrier that can trap cooler, moist air within the basin. Low-lying towns such as Arona or Verbania often experience crisp, clear mornings, though temperatures rarely reach the warmth required for leisure by the water's edge.
At higher elevations, such as in the hills surrounding the Mottarone, snow may still be present in the upper reaches throughout the month, meaning hiking trails at higher altitudes are typically restricted or muddy. The weather is generally unsuitable for water sports or swimming, as lake temperatures remain low.
Travellers should expect a mix of sunshine and overcast skies, with the lake’s microclimate providing a buffer against the harshest winter winds, resulting in a temperate but undeniably fresh environment.
Best places to visit in Lake Maggiore in March
1. Isola Bella
As the most prominent of the Borromean Islands, Isola Bella remains a primary destination for its Baroque palace and terraced gardens. In March, visitors can view the architectural grandeur of the Palazzo Borromeo with a sense of space that is harder to find in summer.
While the gardens are still waking up from winter, the structure itself—a marvel of symmetry and art—is open for exploration. The ferry transit from Stresa is a short and standard route, making this an easy day trip.
Choosing to visit now allows for a thorough walk through the palace halls and the grottoes, where the artistic legacy of the Borromeo family is displayed in detail without the competition for room common in mid-season.
2. Stresa
Stresa is the most practical gateway to the lake’s mid-western shore. Its promenade offers views across the water toward the islands and the distant snow-capped mountains, making it a perfect spot for early-morning or late-afternoon walks.
In March, the town’s grand turn-of-the-century hotels and villas provide a backdrop of historical elegance. It functions as the central hub for the ferry network, allowing for seamless travel to all three Borromean Islands.
Its central location makes it the most logical choice for those who do not wish to drive, as the town is well-integrated into the regional rail lines connecting to Milan and beyond.
3. Verbania-Pallanza
Situated on the western shore, Verbania is known for its sprawling public gardens. Villa Taranto is the standout here; while the most lively floral displays are typically associated with later spring, March provides a look at the early bulb varieties and the structural beauty of the arboretum.
The botanical collection is vast, and a visit here is less about a single flower and more about the meticulous landscaping of the estate. The town of Pallanza, part of the wider Verbania municipality, offers a slightly quieter, more residential character than Stresa, providing a different perspective on life at the lake.
4. Isola Madre
Known for its expansive English-style garden and palace, Isola Madre offers a more serene experience compared to the busier Isola Bella. The island is particularly interesting for its collection of exotic plants and birdlife.
In March, the island is tranquil, and the absence of dense crowds allows for a more focused appreciation of the rare botanical specimens that flourish in the lake’s microclimate. It is a destination for those who prefer to wander pathways through camellias and early azaleas.
Reachable via the regular ferry services from Stresa or Baveno, it provides a slow-paced excursion that can easily fill a half-day.
5. Santa Caterina del Sasso
This remarkable hermitage is built directly into the steep cliffs on the eastern shore of the lake. The site is a primary example of religious architecture adapted to challenging terrain.
In March, the site is often atmospheric and quiet, allowing visitors to appreciate the frescoes and the scale of the drop to the lake water below. Accessible by a combination of road and a set of stairs or a lift, it offers some of the most striking views of the central lake.
It is a place for quiet contemplation, and the cool, crisp air of the cliffs in March only adds to the sense of isolation and history.
6. Baveno
Located just north of Stresa, Baveno is known for its granite quarries and its proximity to the lake shore. The town retains a more industrial, working-town history compared to the resort-focused Stresa, which gives it a different charm.
The square, dominated by the Romanesque-style church of Santi Gervasio e Protasio, is a pleasant place for a walk. Its position makes it a viable alternative base for those who find Stresa too focused on large-scale tourism.
It is also a convenient starting point for exploring the upper reaches of the lake and is well-served by the ferry network.
7. Arona
Sitting at the southern end of the lake, Arona is a gateway town with a significant history. The Colossus of Saint Charles Borromeo, a massive copper statue, is the main landmark, overlooking the town and the water. The walk up to the statue provides a view that spans the lower lake and the surrounding valley.
Arona’s waterfront is busy even in the shoulder season, with a variety of local shops and cafes that remain active throughout the year. It serves as a good entry point for those arriving by train from the south, acting as a functional and scenic introduction to the region.
8. Cannobio
Positioned near the Swiss border, Cannobio is one of the most northern towns on the Italian side of the lake. It is known for its traditional lakefront, with colourful houses that date back several centuries.
The town’s location provides access to the Orrido di Sant'Anna, a narrow gorge that can be explored via walking paths. March is a quiet time here, making it ideal for those who want to experience the lake away from the larger resorts.
The atmosphere is distinct, feeling almost like a separate, self-contained community, and the proximity to the mountains makes it a starting point for more rugged walks.
9. Angera
On the eastern shore, opposite Arona, lies the town of Angera, dominated by the imposing Rocca di Angera. This medieval fortress houses a museum of dolls and toys, which, while niche, is housed within a structure of genuine historical gravity.
Exploring the fortress walls in March, when the air is clear, offers an expansive panorama of the lake basin. The town itself has a small, manageable waterfront that is pleasant for a stroll.
It is best suited for those interested in medieval defensive architecture and those looking to explore the quieter, less developed side of the lake.
10. Mottarone
For those interested in elevation, the peak of Mottarone, accessible from Stresa, provides the most comprehensive view of Lake Maggiore and the neighbouring Lake Orta. In March, the summit is often still touched by winter, and the experience is dominated by the alpine environment rather than the lakeside gardens.
It is a place for those who want to see the scale of the region from above. While the ski facilities may be reaching the end of their season, the observation points and the proximity to the sky offer a stark contrast to the verdant, lower-altitude gardens of the lake shore.
How to plan your Lake Maggiore trip
For a trip in March, focus your stay in Stresa if you prefer a car-free experience. Its position as the primary transport hub ensures you can visit the Borromean Islands and the western shore towns using the ferry network.
For a more independent pace, base yourself in a smaller town like Cannobio or Verbania, where the atmosphere is less resort-driven. Regardless of your choice, prioritise reaching the lake’s central basin, where the most significant architectural and historical sites are concentrated.
Because the weather can shift rapidly, packing layers is essential; include a windproof jacket, sturdy footwear for walking in gardens and on cobbled streets, and comfortable items for indoor museum visits. Ensure you verify the ferry operating schedules, as these can change slightly during the shoulder season.
Frequently asked questions
Is the water warm enough for swimming in March?
No, the water in Lake Maggiore remains cold throughout March. It is a period meant for sightseeing, walking, and enjoying the garden landscapes rather than water-based recreation. If your priority is swimming or beach time, this is not the right month to visit the region.
Are the Borromean Islands open in March?
Yes, the main Borromean Islands typically begin their seasonal opening in March. You can access Isola Bella and Isola Madre via the public ferry services from Stresa. It is a particularly quiet time to visit before the peak spring and summer crowds arrive, allowing for a relaxed experience.
Do I need a car to visit the lakeshore towns?
You do not need a car if you focus your stay on towns like Stresa, Baveno, or Verbania. These are well-connected by train and the regional ferry system. A car is only necessary if you intend to explore the more isolated mountain roads or smaller, rural hillside villages.
Is the mountain railway to Mottarone operational?
The transport to the peak of Mottarone is subject to seasonal schedules. In March, you should confirm current service status, as maintenance periods or weather conditions can occasionally impact the operation of lifts or mountain transport systems. It is best to check the local operator information upon arrival.
What should I pack for a March trip?
Pack for variable weather. You will need a quality windproof and rain-resistant jacket, as the lake can be breezy. Comfortable walking shoes are vital for exploring the historic centres and villa gardens. Layers are the most effective way to manage the transition from cool outdoor air to heated interiors.
Are the gardens in full bloom during March?
March is early for the full floral display that defines the region in later spring. While you will see early bulbs and structural greenery, the most famous camellias and azaleas may only be beginning their cycle. It is a period for appreciating the landscape’s architecture rather than concentrated flowering.
Is it crowded in March?
March is significantly quieter than the peak summer months. You will find that accommodation and access to major sights are much more relaxed. While popular areas around the ferry landings in Stresa will still have activity, you will not face the same volume of visitors as in summer.
How does Lake Maggiore compare to Lake Como?
Lake Maggiore is generally wider and often perceived as having a slightly more open, expansive feel compared to the narrower, fjord-like sections of Lake Como. Maggiore’s Borromean Islands offer a specific, island-focused itinerary that is a distinct feature not found in the same way on Lake Como.
Final thoughts
For a March trip, focus on a base in Stresa to take full advantage of the ferry connections to the Borromean Islands, which are at their most peaceful during this quiet month. Those seeking a more local, residential experience should consider Verbania or the smaller northern town of Cannobio, which offer a slower pace and immediate access to the lake's diverse northern shoreline.
Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.
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