Having spent years around Lago Maggiore, I’ve passed through Arona more times than I can count. I’ll admit it: I don’t linger in Arona as much as in other lakeside villages. When I'm limited on time, Arona isn't the first place I go to. It isn’t the storybook charm of Feriolo, nor does it carry the cozy, city-meets-lake vibe of Intra. Arona feels lived-in, contemporary, a town that has evolved alongside the lake it watches over. Yet, this doesn’t mean it’s lacking in treasures. In fact, I want to dedicate more time to that area neIt time I visit. Over the years, I’ve bookmarked a few spots that feel authentic, lived-in, and unmistakably part of the Lago Maggiore rhythm. Here's a look at a few things to do in Arona, Lago Maggiore.
~ Eat ~
The Historic Steamship
Dining aboard this historic steamship is like stepping back in time. The lake laps gently beneath you, the views are unforgettable, and the menu honors the local culinary traditions. Every visit feels like a mini time capsule, and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve returned here. Find the name and exact docking location of this historic ship in my Lago Maggiore Google Map.
Giulietta al Lago
Built right on the boat docking dock, this lakeside spot is my go-to for aperitivo. The sun sparkling on the water, the breeze in the air, and a perfectly poured drink make it one of the lakeside moments I always bookmark.
Ristorante Contatto Arona
For a refined lakeside meal, this is a must on my personal list. Fresh, local ingredients elevated to gourmet status, served on a terrace with views of Lago Maggiore—it’s a spot I keep returning to, one that never disappoints.
~ Shop: Bookmarked Boutiques and Finds ~
Le Galline Abbigliamento
This boutique in the town center is my personal favorite for pieces that feel unique yet wearable. Over the years, I’ve appreciated the craftsmanship and subtle elegance—this is where I go when I want something that stands out without shouting.
Betsy
I’ve scored some of my favorite finds here, like a standout blue fur jacket. It’s one of those spots I always check in on when I’m in Arona.
The Legendary Cheese Cave
For cheese lovers, this is a perennial bookmark. I’ve spent hours tasting fresh, semi-mature, and mature cheeses while learning the stories behind them. It’s a delicious way to connect with local tradition. I’ve pinned this world-renowned cheese destination on my Lago Maggiore Google Map.
Svadore Secret: If you want to go beyond just buying a block of Gorgonzola and actually go inside the temperature-controlled aging cellars, I highly recommend this Private Cheese Tour & Tasting Experience. You get a guided tour of the underground caves where over 200 varieties are aged, followed by a professional tasting paired with local wine.
~ Landmarks ~
Statue of San Carlo
As you approach Arona from Lesa, the monumental San Carlo Borromeo catches your eye. To locals like me, he’s more than a statue—he’s a guardian, present in churches, plaques, and even family homes along the lake. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views and a quiet sense of history.
Rocca d’Angera
La Rocca di Angera is one of those places that looks like it was built for a movie set. A medieval fortress perched on a limestone spur right above the lake, with frescoed halls, sweeping views, and an entire doll museum tucked inside (yes, they're eerie...). Once owned by the Borromeo family, the castle has hosted some seriously grand events. Most recently the 2015 wedding of Beatrice Borromeo to Pierre Casiraghi, Prince of Monaco.
That being said, I’ll be honest: it’s not my favorite spot on the lake. It leans more “tourist attraction checklist” than “authentic Italian linger.” You can visit the halls and wander the gardens, and there’s a small café for a drink or snack, but you’re not exactly settling in with a glass of Nebbiolo overlooking the lake or discovering some hidden trattoria magic.
The real entertainment for me came courtesy of the falconer. When Patrick and I visited, he was in full medieval regalia, demonstrating tricks with his falcon, Roma. At one point, he tossed something into the air, and Roma dove spectacularly into the sky. Except, instead of returning, the falcon just…kept flying. What followed was the falconer sprinting around the courtyard, shouting “Roma… Roma… ROMA!” at the top of his lungs while the bird disappeared over the horizon. Not exactly part of the tour, but it’s the kind of travel memory that sticks with you more than any fresco.
Local Pro-Tip: Arona and the Rocca are best seen as a combined day trip. For a seamless day, you can book a Private Day Trip to the Angera Castle & Arona. They handle the private transport from your hotel and give you ample time to explore both the fortress and the town of Arona without checking your watch.
Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso
I always make time for this hermitage. Technically, it’s not in Arona proper, but you can catch a ferry from here straight across the lake. Picture this: a 13th-century monastery clinging dramatically to a sheer cliff, as if it were carved straight out of the rock face. It was founded by a wealthy merchant who survived a shipwreck and vowed to dedicate his life to Saint Catherine of Egypt. Talk about keeping a promise.
The monastery looks almost suspended between lake and sky, its arches and frescoed chapels peeking out from stone, as if they’ve been hiding there for centuries (spoiler: they have). The approach is half the thrill. You can only access it by boat or by tackling a steep staircase down from the road above. Either way, when you finally step into the cool stone cloisters, the chaos of the world feels very far away.
It’s less “tourist attraction” and more “secret reward” for those who know Lago Maggiore well enough to seek it out.
Local Pro-Tip: To see both of these architectural marvels from the water and the land, I recommend the Private Panoramic Tour of Lake Maggiore. It includes entrance tickets to both the fortress and the hermitage, plus private transportation so you can truly soak in the "two sides" of the lake at your own pace.
~ Nearby Spots I Always Remember ~
Pirolino Beach – A small, peaceful lakeside spot I love to bookmark for a quick pause.
Agriturismo Molino del Sabbione – For farm-fresh flavors and authentic local charm.
La Rocca Discoteca — For evenings when you want a little energy and music after a lakeside stroll, La Rocca is my go-to spot in Arona. It’s where locals unwind, the DJ spins everything from contemporary hits to classic Italian favorites, and the vibe is lively but not touristy.
Why These Are My Bookmarked Spots
Arona might not have the fairytale charm of Feriolo or the bustling energy of Intra, but these are my personal bookmarks. The cafés, boutiques, and landmarks that make the town feel lived-in, authentic, and intimately connected to the lake. If you want to see Arona through the eyes of someone who knows it as a local, this list is my personal guide.
Want to navigate Lake Maggiore like a local? I offer Travel Consultations and Full-Service Planning to help you weave these "lived-in" treasures into a perfect Italian itinerary. You can also purchase my curated Google Map to unlock all my secret pins, including the historic steamship and the best cheese cave in Piedmont.
