Things to do in Stresa

Palazzo Borromeo

Palazzo Borromeois the culmination ofcenturiesof architectural evolution—an enduring masterpiece that has taken shape as amonumental residencedesigned for prestige and grandeur. Today, it serves as aBaroque art museum, housing an extraordinary collection of paintings, tapestries, sculptures, artifacts, and treasures that transport visitors into the splendor of bygone eras. The20+ roomsof the palace are named to reflect their original purpose, such as theSala di Conversazioneand theSala da Ballo, or take inspiration from the distinctive and valuable furnishings they contain, like theSala delle Medaglie, theSala del Trono, and theGalleria degli Arazzi, which housesexquisite Flemish textilesdepicting mythological scenes. Some rooms are named for historical events or illustrious figures who stayed within their walls, such as theSala di Napoleoneand theSala della Regina. In1935, theSala della Musicahosted theConferenza di Stresa, where world leaders gathered to address Germany's violations of the Treaty of Versailles under Hitler. Atypewrittenaccount of the meeting remains displayed in the room as a testament to this momentous occasion. Also in this space, the right-hand wall commands particular attention, covered entirely with paintings by the Flemish artistPieter Mulier, known as"Cavalier Tempesta". His dramatic depictions ofturbulent seascapes and stormy skieswere favorites of the Borromeo family, who invited the artist to live on the island, where he paintedmore than 80 works.

No. 3 of Family-friendly Attractions in Piedmont

Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens

Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens covers an area of approx. 16 hectares and features 20,000 plant varieties, attracting a large number of visitors.

Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso

Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso is located on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore in Lombardy, Italy. The monastery clings to a rocky slope called Sasso Ballaro, facing the lake, its architecture almost integrated with the natural terrain. This spatial relationship imbues it with both defensive character and a strong sense of sanctity and isolation. It preserves frescoes spanning several centuries, possessing immense cultural value. Diverse ways to reach it offer a dual experience of "pilgrimage route" and "scenic route." Walking down the steps offers panoramic lake views, while arriving by boat provides a spectacular view of the entire building clinging to the wall from the water's surface. It possesses both the solemnity of religious architecture and the openness of natural scenery, especially on sunny days or at dusk, when the lake, rock walls, arcades, and frescoes combine to create a powerful sense of spatial beauty.

No. 8 of Best Things to Do in Piedmont

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is located in Lombardy, Italy, and its northern end extends into Switzerland. Lake Maggiore is not as beautiful as the lakes at the foot of the Alps, but it also has a different flavor. Many writers came to the lake for inspiration, and Hemingway was a frequent visitor here.

Park Pallavicino

Alpyland

Lungolago di Pallanza

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Milan Cathedral

•Located in the center of Milan, the cathedral is a landmark of Milan •Admire the enchanting hall, towering stone pillars, and dazzling stained glass windows while studying design elements of various styles •On the platform level, you can see the exquisite spires of Milan Cathedral and the statues on top of them. The statues vary in form and are lifelike. △The church has 135 spires of varying sizes, each topped with a statue. Carvings and spires are one of the defining features of Gothic architecture, and Milan Cathedral exemplifies this characteristic to the fullest. As such, it is also the Gothic church with the most statues in the world, featuring approx. 6,000 marble statues in total. △Immerse yourself in the treasures and artistic touches within the magnificent church. Admire the incredible nave and the way light flickers through the stained glass windows. Study the sarcophagi and approach the exquisitely decorated altar.

Camping Village Isolino

Lungolago Stresa