Planning a family reunion or a multi-generational escape in the captivating Italian Lakes requires careful consideration. The picturesque lakes, adorned with charming towns against the majestic backdrop of the Alps, beckon those with a taste for the finer things in life. As you contemplate between the iconic Lake Como, family-friendly Lake Garda, culturally rich Lake Maggiore, and the hidden gem, Lake Orta, each offering a unique charm, let's delve into the details to help you curate the perfect Italian getaway that the whole family will enjoy- even your grandson!

Young couple sit by Lake Orta during their multi-gen vacation

Lake Como: Worthy of it’s status

If you’re travelling with teenagers in your family, or anyone who would be excited by celebrity spotting- the well-known Lake Como is certainly the choice for you since dotted around the lake are villas of celebrities like George Clooney and Madonna. It’s long been a backdrop for films, starting with the silent film, “The Pleasure Garden” shot in the 1920’s, and including the much loved “A Month by the Lake” as well as action films Ocean’s Twelve and of course Casino Royale.

Beyond the glitz, a boat trip to the picturesque village of Bellagio unveils not only a jewel in its own right but also an opportunity to savour the lake's beauty from the tranquil waters while enduring the fresh air.

Lake Como's popularity brings bustling streets and potential queues, with "authentic" restaurants scattered sparingly. While it's undoubtedly worth a visit (I even hosted a workshop there in 2022 for a group of international professional photographers), the discerning traveller might appreciate the quieter alternatives.

Lake Garda: Paradise for young kids

Situated close to Verona, Lake Garda emerges as a paradise for families, especially those with young kids. Gardaland, an amusement park featuring an aquarium, Lego world, and thrilling rides, promises delightful adventures. The 13th-century Scaliger Castle of Sirmione, along with charming towns and hiking trails, adds a historical and scenic touch to the lakeside escapade. For those flying in or out of Venice, combining a trip to Lake Garda with stops in Verona, Soave (for a tasting at Pieropan), and Padua (my favourite city for shopping and non-touristy restaurants) offers an enriching experience in the heart of Italy.

Lake Maggiore: For Art, Gardens and History

Lake Maggiore is on the other side of Como and crosses the Swiss border. If there are tweens/teens in your family group, Maggiore could be the spot for you! The towns are big enough to have all the shops and plenty of gelaterias. There are plenty of hiking trails if that suits your family. But the biggest drawcard for me? The three enchanting islands – Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola del Pescatori – with their rich history and picturesque landscapes. In the early 1600’s, the transformation of Isola Bella began to take it from a rock to the spectacular terraced gardens and villa that we see today. The palace is so beautiful, it was inhabited by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1797 and Mussolini in 1935. Today, the Galleria Berthier has over 130 paintings including pieces from Raphael, Correggio, Titian and Guide Reni. The island is truly unique- something to make even a teenager say wow!

Lake Orta: A foodie’s dream

A short drive west from Maggiore is the lesser-known Lake Orta. In the middle of Lake Orta there is San Giulio Island, home to about 80 nuns who live in complete silence. The basilica is often the attraction that inspires visitors to board the ferry and explore, but be sure to also follow the path that goes around the island: the “way of silence and meditation”. Following in one direction you will read signs referring to silence, and if you go the other way, the signs will refer to meditation instead.

If you’re a foodie like the family I photographed there recently, then it is certainly a destination for your dream list. Sitting above the lake is Villa Crespi, the Middle Eastern-inspired villa home to the three Michelin-starred restaurant by Antonino Cannavacciuolo. I can’t tell you first-hand how the food is, but I did experience the wonderful service while I was there photographing this family enjoying a sunny winter day in Piemonte.

Related: Looking for other things to do in Piedmont? How about a Tuk Tuk tour or Truffle hunt?

The restaurant isn’t kid-friendly, but a babysitting service can be arranged by the hotel for those of you who are travelling with younger family members. There isn’t too much to do in the area with kids anyway so with this in mind, Lake Orta is most suitable for those seeking an incredible food experience to share with their adult family. Travelling here with a baby works too as you can see in these photos!

See the entire photoshoot of this family at Lake Orta in the slideshow below!

Hi, I’m Kirstie

Photographer and Australian expat living her best gelato life

Love of my husband (but mostly of cheese) brought me to Italy in 2020. He was desperate to be back with his Italian family. And honestly, what Aussie girl could pass up the chance to move to the land of pizza and gelato?! (Seeing a food theme here?)

My decade of photography experience was inspired by a trip of a lifetime. My grandparents took me on a trip to Europe when I was a teen, then gifted me an album so I’d never forget it. That album quickly became a staple of family visits and storytime.

When I moved to Italy, I was surprised how rare that type of printed keepsake is for the locals. It’s quite literally a foreign concept - tourists won’t find that type of session here.

It inspired me to recreate an experience for others as deeply meaningful to them as my grandparent’s infamous vacation album has been to me.

So that’s my mission with Classico Portraits: to provide the same timeless centrepieces for families like yours visiting Italy.

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The Italian Lakes: A Perfect backdrop for your Multi-Gen Vacation