Luino

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Luino's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Lakeside Stroll
morning
:

Arrive in Luino and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a café overlooking Lake Maggiore. Take a relaxing walk along the lakefront promenade to soak in the serene views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic old town with its charming narrow streets and colorful buildings. Visit the weekly Thursday market, one of the largest in Europe, to experience local culture and pick up unique souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a traditional trattoria featuring regional specialties.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and authentic Italian cuisine. Take a peaceful evening stroll along the lake while watching the sunset. End your day with a gelato from a nearby gelateria, enjoying the festive atmosphere in the town square.

day 2
Villa Andrea del Sarto and Botanical Garden
morning
:

Visit Villa Andrea del Sarto, a magnificent historic villa overlooking the lake. Wander through its beautifully manicured gardens and enjoy stunning lake views. Learn about the villa’s history and art collections during a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Botanical Garden of Villa Taranto for an immersive nature experience. Explore exotic plants and aromatic herbs while strolling along peaceful pathways. Have a picnic lunch surrounded by colorful flowers and greenery.

evening
:

Return to Luino and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria. Sample a variety of Italian wines paired with classic pizza toppings. Relax at a cozy bar with a warm ambiance and vibrant local crowd.

day 3
Hiking Monte San Giorgio
morning
:

Begin your day early with a hike to Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fossil discoveries. Enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains as you trek along well-marked trails. Take breaks to appreciate the natural beauty and capture photographs.

afternoon
:

Descend and visit a nearby mountain village for a traditional Italian lunch featuring handmade pasta. Explore the quaint streets and interact with friendly locals. Spend some time visiting small artisan shops selling handcrafted goods.

evening
:

Return to Luino and relax at your accommodation. Opt for a light dinner or enjoy an aperitivo at a lakeview café. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a peaceful evening by the water.

day 4
Day Trip to Switzerland
morning
:

Take a short train or bus ride from Luino to the Swiss town of Locarno. Start your day exploring Piazza Grande and the charming lakeside promenade. Visit museums or enjoy a coffee at a café in the historic center.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful gardens of the Park of the Villa Comunale or hike to the Madonna del Sasso Sanctuary for breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore. Have lunch at a Swiss restaurant featuring local delicacies like raclette or fondue. Browse artisan shops offering Swiss chocolates and crafts.

evening
:

Travel back to Luino and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant serving cross-border cuisine. Sample dishes blending Italian and Swiss influences for a unique culinary experience. Take a nighttime walk along the waterfront to end the day peacefully.

day 5
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Museo del Lago in Luino to learn about the area’s aquatic history and culture. Tour local art galleries showcasing emerging and established Italian artists. Enjoy a coffee break in a charming café popular with artists and locals alike.

afternoon
:

Attend a workshop or demonstration, such as pottery or painting, at a local artisan studio. Explore Luino’s street art and murals hidden throughout the town’s alleys. Have lunch at a family-run trattoria known for its homemade dishes.

evening
:

Join a cultural event or live music performance if available, experiencing Luino’s vibrant local scene. Dine at a refined restaurant specializing in regional cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients. Conclude your evening with a glass of wine in a lively piazza.

day 6
Boat Excursion on Lake Maggiore
morning
:

Embark on a boat tour departing from Luino, cruising across the stunning Lake Maggiore. Visit scenic islands like Isola Bella or Isola dei Pescatori, marveling at their historic villas and quaint fishing villages. Enjoy guided commentary about the lake’s history and natural environment.

afternoon
:

Disembark on one of the islands for a leisurely lunch at a waterfront café. Explore gardens, museums, and shops at your own pace. Return by boat in the late afternoon, soaking up the sun and beautiful panoramas.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed dinner back in Luino with lakeside views. Taste freshly caught fish prepared in traditional Italian styles. Take a moonlit lakeside walk to appreciate the tranquil night atmosphere.

day 7
Exploring Local Food Markets
morning
:

Visit Luino’s morning food market to sample and purchase local delicacies like cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Chat with vendors and learn about seasonal specialties and traditional recipes. Pick up ingredients for a picnic or cookout later in your stay.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class focusing on northern Italian cuisine, preparing dishes such as risotto or polenta. Enjoy tasting what you’ve made alongside a fine selection of regional wines. Spend the remainder of the afternoon visiting a nearby vineyard for a tour and more wine tasting.

evening
:

Dine at a countryside agriturismo, enjoying fresh, farm-to-table Italian fare. Relax with locally produced olive oil and homemade desserts. Cap off the evening with stargazing in the peaceful rural surroundings.

day 8
Historic Churches and Architecture
morning
:

Visit Luino’s Basilica of San Pietro e Paolo, admiring its beautiful architecture and interior frescoes. Explore other historic churches nearby, noting their artistic and cultural significance. Take photos of stunning architectural details along the way.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch in a café near the Piazza Libertà and enjoy local antipasti platters. Visit the Town Hall and other civic buildings showcasing elegant Lombard architectural styles. Spend time people-watching and relaxing with coffee at an outdoor terrace.

evening
:

Choose a charming restaurant serving classic dishes like risotto alla Milanese or ossobuco. Enjoy a quiet, intimate dinner atmosphere perfect for reflecting on a day of cultural exploration. Take an evening walk to see the beautifully lit historic buildings.

day 9
Relaxation and Wellness Day
morning
:

Start the day with a gentle yoga or meditation session overlooking Lake Maggiore. Follow with a spa treatment or massage at a wellness center in Luino. Enjoy a healthy breakfast emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients.

afternoon
:

Walk along nature trails to discover tranquil spots for relaxation. Visit nearby thermal baths or a natural hot spring for rejuvenation. Have a nutritious lunch emphasizing local organic produce.

evening
:

Enjoy a light dinner at a restaurant offering vegetarian or wellness-focused cuisine. Take a gentle lakeside stroll as the sun sets, savoring the peaceful ambiance. Unwind with a calming herbal tea before resting for the night.

day 10
Farewell Luino and Souvenir Shopping
morning
:

Spend your final morning revisiting favorite spots around Luino for last-minute photos and memories. Purchase unique souvenirs like handcrafted ceramics, lace, or locally produced food items. Enjoy a final coffee at a lakeside café watching morning activities unfold.

afternoon
:

Have a leisurely lunch at a favorite restaurant or try a new one recommended by locals. Pack your bags and prepare for departure while soaking in your surroundings one last time. Take a final walk around the market if time permits to savor the town's lively atmosphere.

evening
:

Enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating the flavors of the region with friends or family. Reflect on your immersive experiences in Luino while watching the calming waters of Lake Maggiore. Prepare for your journey home, filled with memories of this charming Italian lakeside town.

Discover Luino

Read more in our Luino 2025 Travel Guide.

Luino Travel Guide