The Essential Guide to Cannobio, Italy: Where to Eat, Play & Stay
Thinking of visiting Cannobio Italy? This essential guide has everything you need from things to do, day trips, restaurants and hotels!
Nestled along the picturesque western shore of Lake Maggiore in Italy’s Lake District, historic Cannobio is a picturesque and less-visited Italian destination, particularly by Americans.
Just 16 kms from the Swiss border, this lakeside town inItaly’s Piemonte regionmakes an ideal getaway!
Cannobio is anenchanting small town, full of intriguing stores, hotels, and colorful facades, all set against the backdrop of the lower Italian Alps. It’s a perfect slow travel destination for adventure enthusiasts and culture hounds.
Lace up your boots for epic hikes during the day that include deep gorges and panoramic views, then wander at night through the narrow cobblestone streets in search of history.
Those looking for a relaxing escape can also relish beach days, strolls along the promenade, and an evening aperitivo al fresco.
Cannobio offers an experience that is as visually stunning as it is culturally enriching, so get ready for another hidden Italian destination as we share our travel guide to Cannobio, Italy.
What’s in this Article on Cannobio?
Where is Cannobio, Italy?
Getting to Cannobio
History of Cannobio
Hotels in Cannobio
Things to Do in Cannobio
Best Restaurants in Cannobio
Where is Cannobio, Italy?
Cannobio is a small town located on the northwestern shore of Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region ofnorthern Italy(the western shore of Lake Maggiore is in Piedmont, while the eastern shore is in Lombardy).
It’s so far north in fact, that theborder of Switzerlandis just ten minutes away!
If you aretraveling from Milan, Cannobio is two hours northwest of the city by car. Not exactly an easyday trip from Milan, though, as traffic can be slow-moving around the lake.
As for the Italian lakes, Lake Maggiore is just one hour east ofLake Orta (Lago d’Orta)and west of Lake Como.
Cannobio is about 45 minutes from the town of Stresa.
Getting to Cannobio
The easiest way to get to Cannobio is todrive。Fly into Milan, rent a car atMilano Malpensa airportand drive to Cannobio.
We think it’s worth the expense of having your own car to be able to see all the other amazing sites nearby.
From Switzerland to the other sites andislands along Lake Ortaand Lake Maggiore, you’ll want to turn a trip to Cannobio into a good old-fashionedItalian road trip!
NOTE: Italy is known for train travel. Unfortunately, trains run from Milan to Stresa, but not as far north as Cannobio.
History of Cannobio
The first mention of Cannobio was in 909. Tombs have been discovered in the area that stretch before the Roman period. In medieval times, it was a thriving center for industries like lumber, wool and tanning.
One of the most famous events in the town’s history took place in 1522. Witnesses say a painting of Christ started to bleed.
Shortly thereafter, Cardinal Carlo Borromeo commissioned a chapel to be built in its honor.
Later the Sanctuary of the Santissima Pietà was built over the previous chapel. And the painting is still on display there today.
Hotels in Cannobio
There are plenty of good hotels in Cannobio for any style and budget, but here are our 2 favorites — one for luxury travelers and one more moderate priced B&B:
Luxury
If you want to stay ON Lake Maggiore, there’s really only one choice —Hotel Cannobio。
This Cannobio hotel sits directly on the lakeside promenade and has a perfect view of the surrounding alpine and lake scenery.
The posh Hotel Cannobio is a landmark, plus their on-site restaurantPorto Vecchiois excellent and has a beautiful terrace overlooking the lake.
Moderate
If you’re looking for something as charming as the town itself, look no further thanAntico Borgo B&B, a charming and completely renovated bed and breakfast that’s home to bright, spacious and modern rooms.
The location is not waterfront, but is ideal nonetheless— in the center of town and easy walking distance to the waterfront.
Rooms at Antico Borgo B&B fuse historic charm with modern touches and amenities — all theantique feelbut with up-to-date styling, amenities and connectivity
Our suite had a sitting balcony right over the historic street — we loved having a cup of tea or glass of wine at night as we watched the locals on their way home from work.
Their breakfast spread is also a real show-stopper, with homemade bread and tarts with honey and fresh fruit, as well as local cheeses and ham, quiches and lots more.
Things to Do in Cannobio
Explore the Old Town
Visitors looking for things to do in Cannobio will love exploring the old town. The Old Town is a maze of narrow cobbled stone streets and stairways.
Located right behind the promenade, it starts at Via al Castello and extends up and along Via Giovanola.
最初被称为“Borgo”,老城是回家to a number of historic buildings, some of which date back over 600 years.
One great stop in town is thePalazzo della Ragione, which dates back to 1291.
The former town hall is now the tourist office. Plus, right next door is the 14th century bell tower, which is the tallest building in town.
Across from the tourism office is theCollegiata di San Vittore,其中一个最important churches in Cannobio, Italy which dates to the 18th century.
Another iconic building isCasa Pironi。This 15th century palace has an interesting wedge-shaped design. Plus, it’s now a stunning hotel.
Stroll the Promenade
Cannobio is home to one of Lake Maggiore’s best promenades! The promenade spans an impressive stretch that’s over 3000 feet along the waterfront.
Strolling along the Cannobio promenade is a must! It runs from the southern point of town, along the lake, and all the way up to the lido. The views over the lake and the mountains in the distance are spectacular.
Along the southern section of the promenade, you’ll find porticos and candy-colored buildings. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to pop into. Grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of the cafes, it’s the ideal spot to people watch.
Further along the promenade you’ll spot old houses owned by fishermen. In addition, various Cannobio sights are located along the promenade like the marina, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele III, and Santuario della St Pieta.
The promenade comes alive during the summer! Musicians, street artists and more line the lakefront for plenty of fun and entertainment. Plus, there’s a Sunday morning market too.
Soak up the sun at the Lido
For those visiting Cannobio, Italy in the summer you’ll want to add soaking up the sun at the Lido to your to do list!
Just north of town is the Lido, one of the places Cannobio is best known for. The beach isBlue Flag certifiedfor its excellence and water cleanliness.
With a large grassy area and beach, it offers a dreamy respite on a hot summer day.
This popular spot is great for sunbathers, swimmers, and those looking for some water sport adventures.
The Cannobio Lido is home to the best conditions on Lake Maggiore for kite-surfing, sailing, and windsurfing.
Along with incredible views, the Lido is home to a restaurant. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a bite to eat or a drink on the patio.
Visit Locarno Switzerland
A fun day trip option is a visit to Locarno Switzerland. Located a short 20-minute drive from Cannobio, Locarno is a beautiful city on the northern shores of Lake Maggiore.
Sitting at the base of the Alps, Locarno is Swiss but referred to as an Italian-speaking resort city. Visitors will find plenty of things to do in Locarno.
Visit the old town’sCastello Visconteo, with its 15th century frescos and ancient wooden ceilings. The old castle is now home to a museum that exhibits a variety of Roman artifacts.
There’s also a funicular that will take you up to theSantuario della Madonna del Sasso。
The church is a famous pilgrimage site and also has a museum. However, the view from out front of the funicular rewards you with sweeping views of Locarno and Lake Maggiore.
If you don’t feel like driving, there are ferries that run between Cannobio and Locarno that will take you back and forth.
乘船Brissago群岛
Another gem in Switzerland to visit is theBrissago islands。You can take a ferry or boat from Cannobio to these two islands.
Isola Piccolais a small island that is covered in natural vegetation.San Pancrazio, orGrande Isola, is larger and known for its stunning botanical garden.
Covering roughly six acres, the botanical garden is home to around 1,500 species of plants. You’ll find an array of beautiful blooming trees and flowers. A few highlights are the rhododendrons, magnolia trees, California poppies, and Japanese palm trees.
You can explore at your leisure or take one of the guided tours of the Parco botanico del Canton Ticino. There are different guided tours as well as a scavenger hunt for flowers, which is fun for families visiting with young children.
There’s also a hotel and restaurant in the villa at the botanical gardens. You can dine inside or on the terrace overlooking the gardens.
Visit Stresa and the Borromean Islands
About an hour drive south of Cannobio is the thriving resort town of Stresa, also located on the picturesque shores of Lake Maggiore. The town is famous for welcoming visitors like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway.
Landmarks in Stresa include theGrand Hôtel des Îles Borromées, where Hemingway stayed, andVilla Pallavicino。With stunning gardens, a petting zoo, and café, Villa Pallavicino is a must visit.
Many people visit Stresa because of thebeautiful Borromean islands。These three small islands can be seen from Stresa but are much better explored in person, and are an easy 5-minute boat ride from shore.
The most popular isIsola Bella, which is home to a palace and gardens. Along with fragrant flowers, you’ll also see peacocks strutting in the gardens.
For a more casual vibe head toIsola dei Pescatori。科布岛由一个小村庄lestoned streets, lovely artisan shops, and — thanks to the predominant residents being fishermen — a number of very good restaurants serving fresh local fish.
Isola Madreis home to a number of stunning historical terraced gardens and a few buildings. The gardens are filled with an array of plants as well as birdlife. One of the most notable is a two-hundred-year-old Kashmir Cypress.
Take the Ferry to Santa Caterina del Sasso
If you’re visiting Stresa and Borromean islands for the day and you love Italian antiquities, you may want to take a quick side trip for this one — trust me, it’s worth it.
Across the lake on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore is the13th-century Santa Caterina del Sasso, an ancient hermitage that clings to the cliffside and is truly one ofItaly’s prettiest gems。
虽然这宝石可能不是隐藏,很难to get to unless you take the car ferry which is located between Stresa and Cannobio — COME ON, you have to drive right by it!!
PlugIntra/Verbania ferry to Lavenoin your GPS and go. Ferries run every 20 minutes or so.
Visit the Santuario della St Pieta
The most famous attraction in Cannobio, Italy is theSantuario della St Pieta。Located along the promenade, it dates to the early part of the 16th century.
Also referred to as the Sanctuary, it’s the main church in town. It is best known for housing the miracle painting of Christ that emitted tears of blood. Because of this miracle, the church was commissioned by Cardinal Carlo Borromeo.
Along with bleeding, a human rib fragment appeared to emerge from the painting, coming from a wound in Christ’s side. Both the painting and the rib are on display in the church today in a niche on the high altar.
Beyond the pieces of Cannobio’s past, the church is a beautiful building to visit. Inside you’ll find marble pillars, awesome frescos, and intricate details.
Shop the Cannobio market on the Promenade
Whether you’re slow traveling or looking for some local goods, shopping the Sunday market in Cannobio, Italy is a must!
Every Sunday, throughout the year, the market runs from 8am to 2pm. Its location is perfect, running the entire length of the promenade.
The market is full of local craftsmen selling a variety of items like clothing and leather goods. There is a wide assortment of fresh Italian food. You’ll find fresh local fruit, vegetables, oils, and ham. In addition, it’s a great place to pick up picnic items like antipasti, cheese, and wine.
Market days are very busy, people come from all over, including Switzerland. So, be prepared for crowds and limited parking, especially on beautiful sunny days in the summer.
Hike in the Cannobina valley and Sant’Anna gorge
Outdoor adventurers looking for fun things to do in Cannobio, Italy will be thrilled with the hiking opportunities.
TheCannobina Valleyis set between the Ticino and Verbano Alps. It’s home to small villages, beautiful alpine meadows, stunning gorges, and plenty of hiking trails.
Running through it is theCannobino River, which has carved an over 80 feet deep gorge.
Named after the nearby church, the Sant’Anna Gorge is a sight to behold. There are two bridges that cross it, one for vehicles and the other for foot traffic.
Known as theAgostana Bridge, this narrow footbridge is old and offers incredible views.
A relatively easy hike is theSentiero 2, which takes approximately 2 hours and offers panoramic views.
The trail leads out from town, over the gorge, and to the Church of Sant'Anna (c 1638), home to twisted black marble columns, paintings, and beautiful frescos.
Best Restaurants in Cannobio
Cannobio, Italy is home to an array of fantastic restaurants. One of the best restaurants in Cannobio is RistorantePaul。This Cannobio restaurant has an excellent location on the promenade with a patio overlooking the marina.
Their salads are beautiful and delicious, and we highly recommend the pizza and truffle risotto.
For some of the best pasta in town head over toOggi Pasta。Just minutes from the promenade, Oggi Pasta is best known for their fabulous and friendly staff. A go to dish on their menu is their cannelloni.
Another restaurant with a great location isLo Scalo。Situated along the promenade, you’ll find lovely lake views. The menu features local specialties and dishes served with fish fresh from the lake, and they have the best tiramisu in town!
AtTrattoria Cannobio da Ale & Valeyou’ll find a charming interior and quaint little outdoor seating area. It features a large menu with homemade pastas, pizza, and seafood dishes. Guests love their signature homemade ravioli and vongle!
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For those seeking a dreamy Italian resort town that has it all, plan a getaway to Cannobio, Italy! Along with a variety of attractions and activities in town, you’ll also find a number of fun day trip ideas.
So, start plotting your Lake Maggiore trip today and stay in Cannobio!