Things To Do
in Arona
Arona sits on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore in Piedmont, Italy, just a short drive or train ride from Milan. Its historic center blends medieval charm with lakeside leisure and easy access to the Borromean Islands. The towering Sancarlone statue watches over the town from a hillside, while a picturesque promenade invites relaxed strolls along the water.
Visitors come for serene scenery, outdoor activities, and classic Piedmontese cuisine by the lake.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Maggiore, enjoying the crisp morning air and beautiful views. Stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino. Visit the nearby Borromean Islands for a scenic boat tour and take in the stunning landscapes.
After returning to Arona, spend your afternoon wandering through the charming streets filled with boutique shops and artisanal markets. Have a delightful lunch at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local wines. Treat yourself to a visit to the Santa Maria della Rocca, a historical church with panoramic views of the lake.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the tranquil vibes of the evening. Dine at a cozy trattoria, where you can indulge in Italian specialties like risotto and local cheeses. End the night with a gelato from a nearby shop, enjoying the sweet taste under the stars.
Start your day with a visit to the Arona Castle, exploring its rich history and breathtaking views from the top. Take your time to appreciate the ancient architecture and the surrounding landscape before heading back to the town. Enjoy a coffee while engaging with locals who are happy to share stories about the area's past.
Spend the afternoon at the Museo della Rocca, where you can delve deeper into the region's art and culture. The museum features a range of exhibits that highlight Arona's history from ancient to modern times. After the museum, take a relaxing walk through the town's historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture.
In the evening, find a quaint wine bar and enjoy sampling local wines paired with various Italian antipasti. The ambiance creates a perfect backdrop for unwinding after a day of exploration. Join locals in the square for traditional music or dance performances, embracing the vibrant culture of Arona.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurants | $12-18 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧀Cheese and bread snack | $4-7 |
| 🎟️Local museum entry | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic lake setting and easy access to the Borromean Islands
- Relaxed pace and charming historic center
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller-town services can mean fewer dining and shopping options on Sundays
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Arona
Visit one of these nice places.
Long lakeside promenade with morning light and calm waters, ideal for reflections.
Panoramic overlook of the town and lake featuring the monumental Saint Charles Borromeo statue.
Historic square with pastel façades and the brick church, perfect for street photography.
Ruined hillside fortress offering dramatic views over the lake.
Food in Arona
Arona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy risotto cooked with perch from Lake Maggiore, a signature dish in lakeside eateries.
Must-Try!
Small stuffed pasta pockets in butter and sage, a Piedmont staple.
Polenta served with slow-cooked beef braise, a hearty Piedmont classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Seasonal stalls along the harbor with panini, focaccia, and gelato.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Salve; maintain polite conversation in Italian when possible.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Arona
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or a small tip is appreciated for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming gardens; carry a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
Warm days with sunshine and lake breezes; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak hours.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor walks and wine tasting.
Cool to cold with a chance of fog; many outdoor attractions are quieter but charming with holiday lights.
Arona at Night
Hiking in Arona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle-to-moderate alpine trails with lake views and forested paths.
Hill routes with panoramic viewpoints over Lake Maggiore.
Airports
How to reach Arona by plane.
Major international gateway about 50-60 minutes by car or train to Arona; frequent flights from Europe and beyond.
City airport in Milan, about 1.5 hours by train-car combination from Arona.
Turin's airport, about 1.5–2 hours by road and rail to Arona.
Swiss gateway about 70-90 minutes by road/train connections through the lake region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents include families and an aging population with a strong sense of community.
Seasonal visitors drawn to the lake, islands, and historic streets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The lake’s breezes attract sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Scenic lanes around the lake attract cyclists of all levels.
Nearby hills offer short to moderate hikes with lake views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh vegetables, pasta, risotti, and cheese; ask for plant-based sauces and vegetable broths.