Lake Orta

The Italian Lakes

Italy Travel Guide

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Shop Book
Pella - Lago d'Orta

Getty Images/Flickr RF

Overview

Enveloped by thick, dark-green woodlands, tranquil Lake Orta (aka Lake Cusio) could make a perfect elopers’ getaway. Measuring 13.4km long by 2.5km wide, it’s separated from its bigger and better-known eastern neighbour, Lake Maggiore, by Monte Mottarone. The focal point of the lake is the captivating medieval village of Orta San Giulio, often referred to simply as Orta.

Meet your new travel partner

Stay connected in Lake Orta

Get unlimited data while you travel with Holafly eSIM. Peace of mind and no hidden fees wherever you go.

LEARN MORE

Take your Italy trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

Sardinia's Spectacular Serenade: 10 Days on the Italian Island

10 days / 9 nights

highlights

  1. 1Exploring and staying overnight on San Pietro, Sardinia’s nearby isle
  2. 2Learning how to cook Sardinian specialties during a hands-on farmhouse culinary workshop
  3. 3Finding wild horses in their natural habitat at Giara di Gesturi
from $4,500

per person

book this tripsee trip details

Explore more trips

  • Italy's La Dolce Vita in Venice, Rome, and Florence
    Italy

    11 days / 10 nights

    Italy's La Dolce Vita in Venice, Rome, and Florence

    FROM $5,500

    per person

    See Trip Details
  • The Other Italy: a Grand Tour of Sicily's Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo
    Italy

    11 days / 10 nights

    The Other Italy: a Grand Tour of Sicily's Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo

    FROM $4,950

    per person

    See Trip Details
  • From the Heels to the Toes of Southern Italy: Naples, Amalfi, and Puglia
    Italy

    10 days / 9 nights

    From the Heels to the Toes of Southern Italy: Naples, Amalfi, and Puglia

    FROM $4,950

    per person

    See Trip Details

Must-see attractions

Explore all

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Lake Orta