Best scenic drives in the Italian Lakes
Road trip ideas for European explorers
There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in Europe, and few places rival the beauty of Italy’s northern lakes. Picture twisting roads along glittering water, mountain switchbacks, and lakeside villages perfect for a lazy lunch or gelato stop. Whether you’re taking your own car on the ferry or hiring something sporty at Milan airport, the Italian Lakes are made for driving.
We’ve rounded up five of the best scenic drives in the region - ideal for a summer escape, a romantic getaway, or a bucket-list road trip. Grab your sunnies, tune into some Italian jazz or classic rock, and get ready to cruise. Here’s our guide to the best lakeside driving routes.
1. Lake Como’s Western Shore - Como to Menaggio
- Route: SS340
- Distance: Approx. 30 miles
- Highlights: Glitzy villas, narrow lakeside lanes, Bellagio views
Starting in the stylish town of Como, this route hugs the lake’s edge all the way to Menaggio, passing charming towns like Cernobbio and Tremezzo along the way. The road is tight in places (and the locals drive with flair), but it’s all part of the fun. Expect dramatic cliffside views, classic Riva boats, and some seriously enviable homes.
Top Tip: Avoid weekends if you can - this stretch gets busy. Set off early for smoother driving and quieter coffee stops.
2. Lake Garda Loop -Lazise to Riva del Garda
- Route: SR249 / Gardesana Orientale
- Distance: Approx. 50 miles
- Highlights: Lakeside tunnels, medieval towns, mountain backdrops
Drive the eastern edge of Lake Garda for sweeping views, cliffside tunnels, and colourful towns like Malcesine and Torbole. You’ll pass olive groves, castle ruins, and perfect spots for a swim or pizza break. It’s a longer route with plenty of stop-offs, so take your time.
Top Tip: The northern end near Riva is especially scenic. Consider parking up and exploring by foot or hopping on a lake ferry for a change of pace.
3. Lake Maggiore and the Cannobio Stretch
- Route: SS34
- Distance: Approx. 20 miles (Stresa to Cannobio)
- Highlights: Peaceful roads, alpine charm, Swiss border views
Quieter than Como and Garda, Lake Maggiore is a dream for drivers. From the elegant town of Stresa, follow the SS34 up to Cannobio - a picturesque lakeside village with a relaxed, Swiss-influenced vibe. The road winds gently along the water with far fewer hair-raising moments than other lake routes.
Top Tip: Stop at Verbania or Ghiffa for lakeside gelato or a lakeshore stroll. This is a great leg-stretch day.
4. The Bellagio Triangle
- Route: Como - Bellagio - Lecco
- Distance: Approx. 40 miles (triangle loop)
- Highlights: Lake crossings, panoramic climbs, iconic villages
This classic loop lets you experience the best of Lake Como from all sides. From Como, follow the road up the western edge, take the car ferry across to Bellagio, then drive down the eastern side to Lecco. Expect postcard-perfect villages, dramatic mountains, and just enough hairpins to keep things interesting.
Top Tip: The ferry from Cadenabbia to Bellagio is frequent and easy - but get in line early during high season.
5. Into the Alps - Lake Como to St. Moritz
- Route: SS36 > Maloja Pass
- Distance: Approx. 80 miles
- Highlights: Border-hopping, alpine passes, snow-capped peaks
Fancy a proper drive? Head north from Lake Como into the Swiss Alps. The road climbs steadily via Chiavenna and over the Maloja Pass - one of the most underrated alpine drives in Europe. You’ll end up in the glitzy resort of St. Moritz, or just turn around at the top and enjoy the drive all over again.
Top Tip: Pack layers. Even in summer, the pass can be chilly - and keep an eye out for marmots on the roadside!
Preparing your car for the Italian Lakes
Whether you’re hiring or bringing your own, a little prep goes a long way before tackling twisty lakeside roads. Here’s what we recommend:
- Choose a compact car - Narrow roads and tight parking make smaller cars much easier.
- Check brakes and tyres - Especially if you're heading into the Alps.
- Download offline maps - Mobile signal can drop in tunnels or remote mountain areas.
- Bring sunglasses and water - Glare from the lake is real, and summer heat can be intense.
- Don’t forget toll cash or cards - Some alpine roads and motorways require toll payment.
From dramatic switchbacks to peaceful lakeside lanes, the Italian Lakes offer some of the most scenic drives in Europe. Whether you’re soaking up the views in a vintage convertible or taking the kids on a family adventure, it’s a trip you won’t forget.
Need a new car before your European escape? We’ve got a range of handpicked used vehicles perfect for every type of road trip - from compact hatchbacks to family-friendly SUVs. Get in touch to find your ideal drive.