Italian lakes by motorhome: advice, locations, itineraries

The Italian lakes by motorhome offer an incomparable travel experience, combining freedom of movement with the discovery of breathtaking landscapes. Between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Garda, the aristocratic elegance of Lake Como and the majesty of Lake Maggiore, this region of northern Italy is an ideal playground for motorhome travellers in search of escape and natural beauty.

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Discovering Italy’s lakes in a motorhome gives you the chance to sail from lake to lake as you please, to park in front of picture-postcard panoramas and to live to the rhythm of la dolce vita. This region of Lombardy, nestling between the Alps and the Po plain, boasts some of the most beautiful lakes in Europe, set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and picturesque villages.

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1. Preparing for your trip: the essentials for visiting Italy’s lakes by motorhome

Before setting off for the lakes of Italy in a motorhome, you need to prepare carefully to make the most of your stay. The lakes region of northern Italy has its own specific characteristics that you need to be aware of to avoid disappointment and maximise the pleasure of your trip.

Essential documents include your driving licence, vehicle registration document, insurance valid in Italy and a European health insurance card. And don’t forget the compulsory equipment: reflective waistcoat, warning triangle, first-aid kit and spare wheel in good condition.

Itinerary planning must take into account the particular topography of the region. The roads around the lakes can be winding and narrow, especially on the eastern shore of Lake Como or in the small hilltop villages. Check the height and weight restrictions, especially for access to historic centres, which are often protected by ZTLs (Zona Traffico Limitato).

Budget and costs

The budget for a motorhome holiday in the Italian lakes varies according to the season and the level of comfort required. Expect to pay between €15 and €40 per night for a fully-equipped motorhome park, €8 to €15 for service areas, and €25 to €60 for a traditional campsite. Motorway tolls from France represent a major expense: around €50 from Lyon to Milan.

Fuel is slightly more expensive than in France, and parking in tourist areas can cost between €2 and €4 an hour. You should also budget for ferry crossings between the different shores of the lakes, which are essential if you want to discover certain villages that are only accessible by water.

2. Traffic rules in Italy: what every motorhome driver needs to know

To drive a motorhome in Italy, you need to be familiar with a few specific aspects of the Italian highway code, which sometimes differ from the French rules. The speed limits for motorhomes are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on secondary roads (80 km/h for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes) and 130 km/h on motorways (100 km/h for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes).

The use of dipped headlights is compulsory at all times, day and night, on all Italian roads. The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.5 g/l, the same as in France, but checks are frequent and fines are particularly steep.

Beware of ZTL zones

The main pitfalls for motor caravanners are the famous ZTLs (Zona Traffico Limitato). These limited traffic zones protect the historic centres and are filmed by automatic cameras. Access is strictly regulated according to time of day and type of vehicle. Infringements can cost between 80 and 300 euros, with cumulative fines if you cross more than one zone.

Around the Italian lakes, the cities of Como, Bergamo and Visiting Milan have these protected areas. Always check with your accommodation or tourist office to obtain the necessary permits if you need to enter the city centre.

Download the audio tour to discover Milan on foot and on your own

Milan, Italy’s economic capital and gateway to the lakes, deserves an in-depth visit. The Navaway itinerary guides you through 23 emblematic places of interest in the city, from the majestic Duomo to the bohemian districts of Brera and the famous Scala. Perfect for a day of discovery before heading off to the surrounding lakes. Discover the complete itinerary for visiting Milan.

3. Must-see itineraries: how to organise your Italian lakes tour

Organising a tour of the Italian lakes by motorhome essentially depends on the length of your stay and your areas of interest. Each lake has its own personality and deserves time to appreciate all its facets.

3-4 day express tour: Lake Garda

For your first taste of Italy’s lakes by motorhome, Lake Garda is the ideal choice. This 3-4 day tour takes you from Sirmione, the pearl of the lake with its thermal baths and medieval fortress, to Riva del Garda at the foot of the Dolomites, via the wine villages of Bardolino and Lazise.

Sirmione, accessible via a narrow peninsula, offers an exceptionally romantic setting with its natural hot springs. Continue on to Bardolino, renowned for its light red wine and numerous cellars open for tasting. The panoramic road along the eastern shore takes you to Malcesine, from where a cable car lifts you to the top of Monte Baldo for a spectacular view of the whole lake.

Classic 7-10 day tour: the three great lakes

A week’s holiday allows you to discover the three jewels of Lake Garda, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Start with 2-3 days on Lake Garda, then head to Lake Como for a further 2-3 days, before finishing with Lake Maggiore and its Borromean Islands.

Lake Como, in the shape of an inverted Y, seduces with the elegance of its Belle Époque villas and sumptuous gardens. Bellagio, nicknamed “the pearl of the lake”, is a must-see with its privileged position at the confluence of the three branches of the lake. Varenna, with its colourful houses, Menaggio, with its Mediterranean climate, and Tremezzo, with its historic villas, are also worth a visit.

15-day Grand Tour: full exploration

Travellers with more time on their hands can take the grand tour, which includes Lakes Orta, Iseo and Lugano. This extensive tour allows you to appreciate the diversity of the lakeside landscapes of northern Italy, from the intimate atmosphere of the small Lake Orta to the grandiose Alpine panoramas of Lake Lugano.

Lake Orta, often overlooked, charms with its unspoilt authenticity and the island of San Giulio, a veritable architectural jewel in the middle of the water. Lake Iseo reveals Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island, while Lake Lugano offers a delicious blend of Italian and Swiss cultures.

4. Motorhome parks and parking: a safe place to spend the night

Parking is one of the major challenges on a trip to the Italian lakes by motorhome. The region is very popular with tourists, and careful planning is required to secure parking spaces, especially in high season. Fortunately, the supply of parking spaces has grown considerably in recent years.

Fully equipped service areas around Lake Garda

Lake Garda has the most developed infrastructure for motorhomes. The Garda Village Camper Park, near Peschiera del Garda, offers 80 pitches with electricity, water and drainage (Via Campagnola, 37019 Peschiera del Garda, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 850 reviews). Prices are around €25-35 per night, depending on the season.

In Bardolino, Agricampeggio Terra e Sogni offers a more authentic vineyard experience (Via San Martino, 37011 Bardolino, rated 4.0/5 out of 600 reviews). This family-run area has full services and a swimming pool, and costs around €28-40 per night.

Riva del Garda, to the north of the lake, is home to several areas including Camping Bavaria, ideally placed for water sports and hiking enthusiasts (Viale Rovereto, 100, 38066 Riva del Garda, rated 3.9/5 out of 1200 reviews).

Parking solutions on Lake Como

Lake Como, which is more mountainous, offers fewer specialised areas, but makes up for this with pitches that are often more spectacular. In Menaggio, the communal area near the port offers basic services in an idyllic setting (Via IV Novembre, 22017 Menaggio, cost around €15-20).

Como has Camping Villa Olmo, a well-equipped establishment close to the historic centre (Via Bellinzona, 2, 22100 Como, rated 4.1/5 out of 950 reviews). Beware of traffic restrictions in the centre of Como: prefer peripheral car parks and use public transport to reach the city centre.

Lake Maggiore: between Italy and Switzerland

Lake Maggiore offers a variety of solutions, including in Stresa with the Punto Sosta Camper area located near the embarkations for the Borromean Islands (Viale Duchessa di Genova, 28838 Stresa, price €18-25). This strategic position makes it easy to visit the famous islands without moving the camper van.

In Baveno, the Area Comunale offers excellent value for money with a view of the lake (Via Sempione Nord, 28831 Baveno, price €12-18, rated 4.0/5 out of 400 reviews).

Unauthorised camping and parking

Camping in the wild is officially banned in Italy, but sleeping in your own vehicle is tolerated in public spaces, provided you follow certain rules. Avoid town centres and protected areas, and keep a low profile. The Park4Night app is essential for finding authorised spots shared by the motorhome community.

5. Best time to go: climate and tourist numbers

The choice of period has a considerable influence on the quality of your experience of the Italian lakes by motorhome. The region enjoys a temperate climate with Mediterranean influences near the lakes and Alpine influences at higher altitudes, creating particularly pleasant microclimates.

Spring: the renaissance of the lakes (April-June)

Spring is one of the best times to discover the Italian lakes by motorhome. From mid-April to the end of June, nature is spectacularly reborn: the villa gardens are decked out in brilliant colours, temperatures fluctuate between 18 and 25°C, and tourist numbers remain moderate.

This period offers considerable advantages: motorhome parks are at their lowest, roads are less congested and tourist services are already fully operational. The blossoming of azaleas, rhododendrons and camellias transforms the gardens of Villa Taranto on Lake Maggiore into a veritable botanical enchantment.

Summer: high season (July-August)

Summer attracts the most visitors, but also offers the best conditions for water sports and nightlife. Temperatures can reach 30-35°C during the day, ideal for swimming and water sports. However, crowds are at their peak, prices rise by 30-50%, and booking is essential.

If you opt for this period, book early and plan to get up early to enjoy the sites before the crowds arrive. Late afternoon thunderstorms are common and can cool the atmosphere nicely.

Autumn: golden colours (September-October)

September and early October are probably the ideal time to visit the Italian lakes by motorhome. Temperatures remain mild (20-25°C), the water retains its summer warmth, and the autumn colours set the surrounding forests ablaze. The number of visitors drops significantly after 15 September.

This season coincides with the grape harvest in the Bardolino and Franciacorta regions, providing an opportunity to take part in the wine-growing festivities. The golden light of autumn sublimates the landscapes and creates exceptional photographic conditions.

Winter: privacy (November-March)

Winter reveals a more intimate face of the Italian lakes. When temperatures drop to 5-10°C and rainfall becomes more frequent, many establishments close and the atmosphere becomes more intimate. This period is ideal for travellers seeking authenticity and tranquillity.

The snow-capped peaks contrast sharply with the dark waters of the lakes, creating panoramas of stark beauty. Some areas remain open all year round, and prices drop considerably.

6. What to see and do: the must-sees at each lake

Each lake in the region has its own personality and specific treasures. Discovering the Italian lakes by motorhome allows you to soak up this diversity at your own pace, alternating cultural activities, relaxation and gastronomic discoveries.

Lake Garda: dolce vita and Alpine landscapes

Lake Garda, the largest of Italy’s lakes, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and activities. In the south, the morainic hills are home to vineyards and picturesque villages, while in the north you’ll find breathtaking cliffs and an almost Mediterranean environment.

Sirmione is a must-see with its ancient thermal baths, elegant boutiques and spectacular 13th-century Scaliger fortress, which seems to emerge from the water (Piazza Castello, 37019 Sirmione, open every day except Monday, admission €6). The Catullus grottoes, remains of a Roman villa, bear witness to the peninsula’s prestigious past.

Malcesine is enchanting with its perched medieval castle and its cable car to Monte Baldo. This “garden mountain” rises to 2200 metres and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire lake and the Dolomites. There are hiking trails for all levels.

Lake Como: aristocratic elegance

Lake Como is the epitome of elegance and refinement, with its sumptuous villas, Italian-style gardens and colourful villages clinging to the steep slopes. This destination has always attracted European aristocracy and contemporary celebrities.

Bellagio, at the confluence of the three branches of the lake, fully justifies its nickname of “the pearl of Lake Como”. Its steep streets, silk shops and terraced gardens create a unique atmosphere. Villa Melzi and its romantic gardens are the perfect setting for a contemplative stroll (Lungolario Manzoni, 22021 Bellagio, open March-October, admission €6.50).

The Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, perched on a rocky promontory, has been the setting for many films, including Star Wars and Casino Royale (Via Guido Monti, 1, 22016 Lenno, open March-November except Monday-Wednesday, admission €10). Its terraced gardens and loggia offer one of the best views of the lake.

Lake Maggiore: botanical gardens and Baroque islands

Lake Maggiore captivates visitors with its extraordinary islands and exceptional botanical gardens. The particularly mild climate favours lush vegetation with Mediterranean and exotic species.

The Borromean Islands are the lake’s star attraction. Isola Bella, transformed into a Baroque garden in the 17th century by the Borromeo family, boasts a sumptuous palace and terraced gardens populated by white peacocks (access by boat from Stresa, combined palace-garden ticket 17 euros). Isola Madre is home to a remarkable botanical garden with rare plants from all over the world.

The botanical gardens at Villa Taranto in Pallanza are among the finest in Europe, with more than 20,000 species of plants spread over 16 hectares (Via Vittorio Veneto, 111, 28922 Verbania, open March-October, admission €10). The giant Victoria amazonica water lilies in bloom in summer are an unforgettable sight.

7. Local gastronomy: discover the flavours of the lakes

Discovering the Italian lakes by motorhome would not be complete without immersing yourself in the local gastronomy. This region of northern Italy offers a refined cuisine combining influences from Lombardy, Piedmont and the Alps, enhanced by the exceptional produce of the surrounding lakes and mountains.

Unmissable lake specialities

Freshwater fish form the basis of many regional specialities. Risotto al pesce persico (perch) from Lake Como, prepared with this delicate, locally caught fish, reveals all the subtlety of lake cuisine. Coregone, another emblematic fish, is delicious grilled with a simple drizzle of olive oil and lemon.

Alborelle in carpione, small fish marinated in vinegar with onions and aromatic herbs, is a typical antipasto of the region. This ancient preparation was used to preserve fish before the advent of refrigeration.

And there’s no shortage of local produce. Polenta, a traditional accompaniment, comes in many forms: taragna with Alpine cheeses, concia with spinach, or grilled and served with porcini mushrooms. Alpine cheeses such as Gorgonzola DOP, Taleggio and Bitto reveal the region’s rich pastoral heritage.

Local wines and products

The terraced vineyards that border the lakes produce wines of character adapted to the lake climate. Bardolino DOCG, a light, fruity red wine, is the perfect accompaniment to grilled fish. On Lake Maggiore, Nebbiolo wines offer more structure and complexity.

Franciacorta DOCG, produced using the champagne method in the region between Lake Iseo and Brescia, rivals the finest champagnes. Its fine bubbles and minerality make it the ideal aperitif for admiring the sunsets over the lakes.

Olive oil from Lake Garda, the most northerly in Europe, develops unique aromas thanks to the lake’s microclimate. Mild and fruity, it is the perfect accompaniment to salads and raw fish carpaccios.

Markets and gourmet addresses

Each lakeside town has its own traditional markets where you can pick up local produce. The Como market (Tuesday and Thursday mornings, Piazza San Fedele) is packed with Alpine cheeses, artisanal cured meats and seasonal vegetables. The Stresa market (Friday morning, Piazza Marconi) features Piedmontese products.

For an authentic experience, visit the mountain caseifici (cheese dairies) where you can watch traditional cheese-making. The Azienda Agricola Sociale della Valsassina, near Lecco, offers tastings of Taleggio in natural cellars (Via Provinciale, 73, 23816 Ballabio, open by appointment).

8. Activities and leisure: making the most of your stay

Italy’s lakes offer an extraordinary range of activities, with something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a keen hiker or looking for cultural relaxation, this region will meet all your expectations.

Water sports and aquatic activities

Italy’s lakes are an exceptional playground for water sports. Lake Garda, with its steady winds, is a particular magnet for windsurfers and kitesurfers. Torbole and Riva del Garda, to the north of the lake, enjoy optimum conditions with the Peler (north wind) in the morning and the Ora (south wind) in the afternoon.

Numerous schools offer sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing courses for all levels. The Centre Nautico Riva (Viale Rovereto, 44, 38066 Riva del Garda, beginners’ courses €80/day) has an excellent reputation and modern equipment.

Boating is a great way to discover the lakes from a special angle. Hiring a boat without a licence (from 150 euros/day) gives you the freedom to explore secret coves and villages accessible only by water. Regular ferry services are also an excellent means of transport for motorhome owners wishing to leave their vehicles at the service area.

Hiking and mountain activities

The lakeside hinterland offers exceptional hiking trails for all levels. The Sentiero del Viandante, which runs for 45km along the eastern shore of Lake Como, can be walked in sections from the various villages. This historic merchant trail offers spectacular views of the lake.

Monte Baldo, which can be reached by cable car from Malcesine, offers high mountain hikes with views over Lake Garda. The “Natural Botanical Garden of Europe” is home to over 500 species of Alpine plants, some of which are endemic.

For the more adventurous, the via ferrata offers guaranteed thrills in a safe environment. The via ferrata at Monte Colodri in Arco combines climbing and breathtaking panoramas (full equipment required, hire available for 25 euros/day).

Culture and heritage

The cultural wealth of the lakes region can be discovered through its many museums, historic villas and artistic events. Every summer, the Stresa Festival transforms the shores of Lake Maggiore into an international music scene with concerts in exceptional settings.

The villas and their gardens are veritable open-air museums. The Villa Monastero in Varenna (Via Polvani, 4, 23829 Varenna, open April-October, admission €8) combines historic architecture and a botanical garden with more than 900 species of plants on two kilometres of lakefront.

The well-preserved historic centres invite you to take a cultural stroll. Bergamo Alta, accessible by funicular, reveals an exceptionally well-preserved medieval and Renaissance heritage. Its UNESCO-listed Venetian ramparts offer panoramic views of the Alps and the Lombardy plain.

9. Practical advice and tips to make the most of your trip

A successful trip to the Italian lakes by motorhome requires a few practical tips to make your stay much easier. These tips, drawn from the experience of many motorhome travellers, will help you avoid the usual pitfalls and maximise your enjoyment.

Water and waste management

Water supply and waste management are constant concerns when motorhoming. The Lake District has a decent network of service areas, but their spacing requires planning. Allow 3-4 days’ autonomy for a couple with a 150-litre tank of clean water.

Full service areas generally cost €3-5 for a full tank of water and a complete emptying. Some communes offer free water points, often located near cemeteries or playgrounds. The Camper Contact application lists these points with comments from users.

Selective sorting is compulsory in Italy and is closely monitored. Strictly observe the colour codes: green for glass, blue for paper, yellow for plastic and metals. Fines for non-compliance can be as high as €300.

Savings and good deals

There are a number of ways to cut your budget without sacrificing comfort. Regional tourist cards such as the Lake Garda Card (29 euros/day) include public transport, ski lifts and entry to many sites. It pays for itself after the third visit.

Local markets offer quality produce at lower prices than tourist supermarkets. Buy at the end of the market to get discounts on fresh produce. Agricultural cooperatives sell their produce directly: cheese, wine, olive oil, etc. at very attractive prices.

For fuel, avoid stations in tourist areas and prefer main roads or supermarkets on the outskirts of towns. The difference can be as much as 15-20 centimes per litre.

Communication and the Internet

Mobile coverage is generally excellent around the lakes, although some mountainous areas may have weaknesses. Italian operators offer attractive European packages for longer stays.

Many towns offer free WiFi in their main squares and near tourist offices. Municipal libraries are also good connection points for downloading maps and information.

Download the essential apps before you leave: Park4Night for parking, Camper Contact for services, Google Translate with offline mode for communication, and the lake navigation company apps for ferry timetables.

10. Safety and insurance: leaving with peace of mind

Safety on a trip to the Italian lakes in a motorhome requires a few simple but important precautions. The region is generally very safe, but like any tourist destination, it sometimes attracts opportunistic criminals.

Vehicle and property safety

Theft from motorhomes is still rare in Italy, but a few rules of caution are in order. Avoid leaving valuables visible from the outside, even in the driver’s cab. Use the built-in safes for important documents and money.

For night-time parking, opt for supervised or popular areas. Communal areas near town centres generally offer better security than isolated spots in the middle of nowhere. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to invest a few extra euros in a secure campsite.

Equip your motorhome with a visible alarm system and additional locks on the external lockers. These deterrents are usually enough to discourage opportunists.

Insurance and assistance

Check that your motorhome insurance covers travel in Italy and any repatriation. The European Health Insurance Card is still valid, but additional travel insurance may be useful for expenses that are not covered.

Breakdown assistance is particularly important on mountain roads, which can be narrow and winding. Check your insurer’s conditions for assistance, particularly tonnage limits and access for breakdown vehicles.

Always keep a copy of important documents (identity papers, insurance, vehicle registration document) separate from the originals. The photos stored in your phone can make it easier to deal with any lost documents.

In conclusion, discovering the Italian lakes by motorhome offers an exceptionally rich travel experience. This unique region perfectly combines natural beauty, cultural richness and the Italian way of life. Whether you opt for an express tour lasting a few days or an in-depth exploration lasting several weeks, each lake reveals its own treasures and contributes to creating unforgettable memories. The freedom offered by the motorhome means you can adapt to the vagaries of the weather, spontaneous fancies and your own personal pace of discovery. With careful preparation and the practical advice in this guide, you now have everything you need to make a success of this extraordinary adventure in the heart of one of Europe’s most beautiful regions. Let your intuition guide you, take the time to savour every moment, and don’t forget that the journey begins as soon as you hit the road to these marvellous Italian lakes.

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to visit the Italian lakes by motorhome?

A minimum of 5-7 days is enough to explore the surface of the three main lakes (Garda, Como, Maggiore). For an in-depth exploration including hiking, cultural visits and relaxation, allow 10-15 days. Frequent travellers can extend this to 3 weeks, including the secondary lakes of Orta, Iseo and Lugano.

Do I need to book the motorhome parks in advance?

In the high season (July-August) and at weekends in May-September, we strongly advise you to book in advance for equipped car parks. Out of season, there is generally sufficient supply. You can use the Park4Night application to find alternative parking spaces if you are fully booked.

Can you swim in Italian lakes?

Yes, swimming is permitted and popular in all the main lakes. Water quality is excellent, with regular checks. The lakes warm up gradually: 18-20°C in May, 22-25°C in July and August. Lake Garda, which is larger, maintains pleasant temperatures until October.

Are the roads suitable for large motorhomes?

The main roads around the lakes are generally suitable for motorhomes of all sizes. Beware, however, of small mountain roads and historic centres with height (3.5m) and width restrictions. Always check the limits before using secondary roads.

How much should you budget for a week in the Italian lakes?

For a couple with a motorhome, expect to pay €70-120 per day in high season (including parking, restaurants, fuel and activities), and €50-80 per day in mid-season. This budget includes parking (€20-35/night), meals (€40-60/day for 2), fuel (€30-40/day) and tourist activities (€15-25/person/day).