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The Ultimate Lake Iseo Travel Guide: Northern Italy’s Underrated Jewel

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

Northern Italy is known for many beautiful places – the metropolitan Milan , luxurious Lake Como , the towering Italian Alps – but one of its most unique and charming locales doesn’t seem to make it on Italy bucket lists. It’s time to discover hidden gem Lake Iseo and all the alluring places to discover on its shores.

Lake Iseo, or Lago d’Iseo, lies on the border between two provinces of the Lombardy region, Bergamo and Brescia. The shimmering surface and clusters of cute towns are not the only things that stand out about this landscape. In the middle of Lake Iseo is the largest lake island in all of Europe, Monte Isola .

Plus, Lake Iseo is the perfect size – not too big like nearby Lake Garda , but big enough to where you could spend a whole day boating from town to town exploring.

You can fit in Lake Iseo to your itinerary as a day trip from Milan or spend a night enjoying the local charm and watching the incredible sunsets over Monte Isola.

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Why You Should Visit Lake Iseo

Unique Geographical Landscape

It’s no secret that all of Italy’s lakes are beautiful and offer something unique to experience. Lake Iseo, however, is so underrated, as it’s one of the most unique lake landscapes Italy has to offer.

The imposing lake island of Monte Isola captures your attention whether on the water or hiking with a bird’s-eye view.

Less Traveled by Tourists

Of all the lakes in northern Italy, Lake Iseo is the least traveled by tourists. You’ll find many Italians enjoying the laidback life of this lake, and probably some central Europeans as well, but American tourists are definitely harder to find.

It’s not completely off the beaten path, but it’s a breath of fresh air compared to Bellagio of Lake Como or Sirmione on Lake Garda.

Not Too Big, Not Too Small

If you’re thinking Lake Iseo being a smaller lake is a bad thing, then you’ve got the wrong idea! One of the difficult parts to qualify about travel is using your time wisely and doing your best to completely enjoy a place your visiting, seeing everything it has to offer.

Lake Iseo is large enough to have several unique places to explore, but small enough that you can enjoy it for an entire day and feel like you’ve really explored everything there is to see. No one likes the feeling of leaving a stone unturned!

Budget-Friendly

My last main reason for visiting Lake Iseo is because it’s the budget-friendly option of the lakes in northern Italy.

I don’t mean that it’s not going to cost you to be able to visit or stay overnight at Lake Iseo – you’re still in northern Italy, it is still a vacation spot for locals, which all makes it come out to be around a mid-range budget destination.

However, in comparison to your other options, Lago Maggiore, Garda or Como, Lake Iseo is surely the cheaper of them. You’ll be able to have waterfront dining not for a cheap price, but for a price that is cheaper than the other more popular destinations.

This all means you can spend more in other stops on your northern Italy itinerary.

How to Get Around

The most fun way to see all Lake Iseo has to offer is by hopping on a boat! The beauty of this lake is that it’s small enough to explore the entire area in a full day, without being in any kind of rush. That being said, you will have to put aside a whole day if you want to stop in a many spots around the lake.

There are several marinas where you can rent a boat for the day, but I’ve used Global Nautica . They have a good selection of boats for rental, both one’s that require a boat license and one’s that do not, and the prices vary based on the tourist season. You’ll pay the highest price between July and September – ranging from 145€ per day to 205€.

Only tough part is you’ll have to Google Translate their website if you don’t know Italian!

The more doable transportation for ease of movement and staying budget-friendly is to hop on the navigational ferries of Lake Iseo.

There is one specific ferry that runs all year round, which is the one from Sulzano or Sala Marasino to Monte Isola. To reach other destinations of the lake by ferry, keep in mind those lines only run from the end of March to October.

Tickets vary in cost for the ferries. They are divided between 5 zones of the lake , so you will buy the ticket associated with whatever zone you are traveling to from 2-6€. Or, you can buy a day ticket at 14€.

Monte Isola Ferry Timetable

Use this interactive map to find the timetables between your destinations.

A less practical, but viable way to get around Lake Iseo is by driving from town to town by car. Driving in Italy can be challenging, especially in geographical areas like Lake Iseo, where there are mountains, narrow roads, and lots of people trying to get around.

It will definitely take you longer to visit place to place traveling by car!

Places to Visit on Lake Iseo

Monte isola.

The most striking and must-visit place on Lake Iseo is the majestic Monte Isola , the largest lake island in Europe. Framed by the water and mountains of Lake Iseo’s shore, this massive island is a picturesque feature and boasts cute towns to stroll on its shores.

You can reach the island by ferry, going from either Sulzano to Peschiera Maraglio, which is what I did, or Sale Marasino to Carzano.

Peschiera Maraglio is more of the main town, so I recommend visiting there first. If you have more time, you can take the ferry to the other small communities on the island.

Stroll down the huge boulevard to take in the views and explore some of the unique features of this island, like the Rocco Martinengo castle! It’s private property, so unfortunately you can’t enter, but you can at least reach a panoramic viewpoint right next to a castle on an island in Italy – does it get more magical than that?

At the lake’s north end, you’ll notice a bit of change in the weather – enter wind . Similar to the north end of Lake Garda, the mountains around Lake Iseo curve in a bit and form a cove-shape, meaning tons of wind circulates this area!

Lovere is a must-stop if you’re looking to head north on the lake. Charming squares, panoramic walking paths, and homestyle Italian restaurants make it a perfect lunch spot to take a break midday.

For lunch, I recommend pizza at Ristorante Almici , close to the water and square for a lunch that is truly Italian style.

Bogn must be the most unique place to visit on Lake Iseo. Near Riva di Solto, this location is best enjoyed from a boat. The geography of this cove is unreal – it looks as if you wandered into wild island cliffs of the Pacific!

To describe these rock formations with words is difficult… so I’ll let the photo do the talking. Regardless, if you can get out on the water, make Bogn a stop on your boat itinerary.

At the very south end of the lake, you’ll find Sarnico, a perfect spot to start or end your day. This town is young and lively, with fun bars and restaurants, including one with mini golf – Swing1966 !

You’ll also see tons of swans floating around the lake near this city’s edge, which boasts a panoramic boulevard, gazebo, and tons of areas to sit and picnic or just hang out and enjoy the view.

You’ll frequently mind markets in this town or some kind of attraction going on, which makes it fun to visit as a tourist.

Fun fact: there’s a bridge in the town center over the river that flows into Lake Iseo – this bridge separates Sarnico and Paratico, two different towns that also belong to two different provinces! Cross over to one bank, and you’re in the province of Brescia in Paratico, cross over to the other side and you’re in the province of Bergamo in Sarnico!

Hidden Gems

One of my favorite hidden gems on Lake Iseo is Darsena21 . This house-turned-bar takes advantage of its epic views and intimate atmosphere to create the most unique dining experience on Lake Iseo – on a dock.

The dock is alit with lanterns at night and the bench seats come with comfy cushions to relax and enjoy a casual night out.

You can eat meals here as well, but I recommend it for drinks and a classic Italian aperitivo .

Visiting Lake Iseo with your lover? This is the perfect date night spot, with a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

Isola di Loreto

Isola di Loreto technically isn’t a hidden gem – but you can’t actually visit it, so I couldn’t add it to the list of “places to visit” – see my dilemma?!

It isn’t hidden because it’s right in the middle of the lake next to the much larger island, Monte Isola.

But if you explore Lake Iseo by boat you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the storybook castle that makes up this tiny island! You can’t enter unfortunately (somebody actually lives there) but you can admire from the outside and pretend for a moment that its your humble abode.

Walking Path

You’ll find many beautiful trails surrounding Lake Iseo, but the best one to take a casual stroll or bike ride along the lake is the Vello-Toline cycling and pedestrian path.

This path looks like it should be a road, curving right along the lake and through the mountainside, only open to foot and bike traffic.

Other hiking paths usually have to do with trekking uphill for the view, while this path is a more casual and up close way to enjoy Lake Iseo.

Big Benches

High up above the lake, along certain hiking trails, there is a unique initiative to encourage getting outdoors and taking in the view!

Climb to one of the many “ big benches ,” an activity perfect for families and anyone who likes to hike.

Where to Stay

Vista Lago Monte Isola

If you want a truly unique experience on Lake Iseo, you must stay on Monte Isola. Tranquillity, nature, quiet and 360° views of the Orobie Alps and lake.

I stayed at the Vista Lago vacation home, a characteristic and cozy 2-bedroom home. It is hidden on the hillsides of Monte Isola, tucked away beyond a panoramic staircase. The highlight? The large, grassy terrace where you can lounge and take in the sweeping views. You’re constantly confronted by this incredible landscape also thanks to the wide windows in the main area of the house.

The local host Mauro also provides all the information you need with scannable QR codes linked to his recommendations on shopping, food, transportation and more!

La Casa Del Porto

The beautiful modern apartments of La Casa del Porto are not the only reason to book. This building is in the main square of quaint Lovere and has lake views.

Image courtesy of Booking.com

My top pick for budget-friendly Lake Iseo accommodation is this Lake View Villa with an insane view over Monte Isola and a picturesque pool to go with it. Even as a a local I’d be booking a getaway here!

Image courtesy of Airbnb

For a taste of local Italian life watching people stroll the promenade and an up-close view on a budget, Ca del Lac is an easy yes. Plus, the apartment is open, airy, and recently renovated.

Hotel Ulivi

If you want to stay on the south end of the lake, consider spending your time at Hotel Ulivi in Paratico. The hotel has beautiful grounds, views, and amenities for guests to make it worth a mid-range price point.

La Foresta Monte Isola

This hotel is perfect for those who want a peaceful, unique Italian getaway. On the island of Monte Isola, the location is enough to make you want to book. The rooms are simple, but what stands out is Italian hospitality (and a very budget-friendly price tag.)

Campgrounds

Camping del sole village.

Camping on Lake Iseo doesn’t have to be pitching a tent. In fact Camping del Sole and others are villages of well-equipped mobile homes at a low price with prime real-estate on the lakes edge. This option is perfect for families or big groups who want to take advantage of the amenities and budget-friendly accommodation options!

Psst! Sassabenek is also another popular and well-established campground with tons of amenities.

Look for accommodation on Lake Iseo.

Extra Tips for Visiting Lake Iseo

• Hiking – Lake Iseo provides stunning views from above. Check out the Visit Lake Iseo website for all the different hiking trails so you can choose the perfect one for you!
• Cost – Lake Iseo is a mid-range budget destination. Restaurants on the waterfront won’t cost as much here as in Lake Como, for example.
• Swimming – It is not advised to swim in Lake Iseo. The water is not clear beyond a couple feet, there are lots of brush and plants that grow underwater and up close to the surface, and of course, there are currents running through the lake. Stay close to shore and in designated beach areas if you want to take a dip.

I hope that this guide helps you in deciding to come to Lake Iseo and in planning your trip! It’s a local gem that’s often overlooked for its more famous neighbors – but you can now consider yourself an insider and get off the tourist path!

What are you looking forward to seeing most on Lake Iseo? Leave me a comment!

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Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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Things to Do in Lake Iseo, Italy - Lake Iseo Attractions

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Less than 100km from both Bergamo and Brescia, Lake Iseo (aka Sebino) is one of the least known Lombard lakes. Shut in by soaring mountains, it's a magnificent sight. About halfway along the lake, a mountain soars right out of the water.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Lake Iseo. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Monte Isola

Monte Isola towers from the south end of Lake Iseo, making it easily the lake's most intriguing feature. It's Europe's largest lake island, at 4.28 sq km,…

Castello del Grumello

A 9km detour southwest of Sarnico brings you to Grumello del Monte, dominated by a partly overgrown Castello del Grumello, now part of a winery where you…

Accademia Tadini

A gallery concentrating on Venetian and Lombard art that's been around for nearly 200 years. Look out for works by Jacopo Bellini, Giambattista Tiepolo…

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Lake Iseo Travel Guide

Smaller northern italy lake option.

Lake Iseo is a smaller lake in northern Italy’s Lombardy region, between the larger and more popular Lakes Como and Garda . Its main attraction is Monte Isola , Europe’s largest inhabited lake island. If you’re traveling between Venice and Milan, Iseo makes a good stop for a lake vacation.

Plan Your Visit to Lake Iseo

Towns along the eastern lake shore are on the Trenord rail line that runs north from the city of Brescia . Buses run to towns on the western shore from the nearby city of Bergamo . Buses and ferries run between towns on both the western and eastern shores, making it easy to get around by public transportation.

We stayed at Villa Serioli , comfortable vacation apartments in the centrally located town of Marone on the eastern shore. In Marone, Ristorante alla Galleria serves great food, including very fresh lake fish, in a pretty garden by the lake.

• See hotels in Iseo
• See Lake Iseo location on a map of Lombardy

The Island of Monte Isola

Monte Isola is a wooded car-free island with 11 pretty villages along the shore and a small mountain in the center. Peschiera Maraglio is the most popular town and also the easiest to reach with frequent ferries from Sulzano . There are also frequent ferries from Sale Marisino to Carzano. On weekends and in summer, ferries run from other towns also. A bus connects the towns or you can travel by bicycle which can be rented in several places.

The island is a great place for hiking. At the top of the mountain is the 17th century Madonna della Ceriola Sanctuary, where you’ll be rewarded with great views. Monte Isola is classified as one of the borghi piu belli d’italia , most beautiful villages of Italy.

• Residence Castello Oldofredi, Monte Isola
• La Foresta, Monte Isola 1-star Hotel

Things to Do and See On Lake Iseo

16 towns make up the lake communities. Iseo is the principal town with the most tourist facilities and sights. It has a good medieval center, lakeside promenade with a small tourist harbor, and lots of cafes and shops. Most of the towns have a small lakeside promenade, an old historic area, and bars, restaurants and shops. Tourist information centers are in Iseo, Sarnico, and Lovere.

Many hiking trails can be found around the lake. La Antica Strada Valeriana , an old route between Pilzone and Pisogne, is one of the most popular. Bicycles can be rented in several towns including Iseo, Sanrico, and Peschiera and Carzono on Monte Isola. Sailboats, kayaks, canoes, and windsurfing boards can be rented in several places too. You can swim anywhere around the lake and there are plenty of good beaches.

In the hills above the town of Marone are the unusual rock formations called piramidi di Zone . Also in the hills are small towns, churches, and nature reserves.

For more about what to do, see Lago d’Iseo .

Places to Go Near Lake Iseo

The scenic Val Camonica , to the north, is home to Italy’s first UNESCO World Heritage site , inscribed for its thousands of prehistoric petroglyphs. Naquane , the main center for seeing the rock carvings, is in Capo di Ponte.

To the south is the wine region of Franciacorta , a high-quality sparkling wine. Also to the south visit the interesting city of Brescia with Roman sites, an early Christian church decorated with Byzantine art, and Renaissance buildings.

Recommended Guide Books:

• Insight Guides: Italian Lakes
• Explore Italian Lakes: The best routes around the region
• The Rough Guide to the Italian Lakes

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Lake Iseo Travel Guide originally appeared on MarthasItaly.com Jun 05, 2017 , updated: Mar 01, 2023 by Martha Bakerjian .

• Agriturismo
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Welcome to Lago d'Iseo

About lago d'iseo.

Lago d'Iseo, also known as Lake Iseo, is a hidden gem in the heart of Lombardy, Northern Italy. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain views, this crystal clear lake is a peaceful oasis for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors can explore the charming lakeside villages, taste the delicious local cuisine, and indulge in water-based activities like kayaking and sailing. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or adventure,

Lago d'Iseo has something for everyone. Come and experience the magic of this beautiful place, and be prepared to fall in love with its picturesque charm and tranquil atmosphere.

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Welcome to the romantic lake. Stunning views over the lake and the pre-alps gives you time to relax.

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Agriturismo is a unique way to experience the Italian countryside while staying in comfortable, authentic accommodations. Visiting an agriturismo, while staying in Lago d'Iseo is the perfect way to explore the area local cuisine and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

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Lake Iseo: Italy’s Hidden Gem

Tip: Bring a packed lunch to eat by the water!

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

Let’s talk about Italy’s hidden gem: Lake Iseo. 

Northern Italy has long been known for it’s beautiful lakes, such as the famous Lake Como and Lake Garda, or even the famous lakes of the Dolomites : Lago di Braies and Lago di Carezza . But what if I told you that there is a lake area that is just as beautiful with a fraction of the crowds? This is where the beautiful Lake Iseo (Lago Iseo) enters the scene. 

We recently spend some time in Northern Italy, using a small apartment in the charming city of Bergamo as our base. While looking for a way to escape the heat wave, we decided to rent a car and set off exploring the nearby lakes.

Rather than visit the famous Lake Como, sure to be full of tourists, we took a gamble at visiting Lake Iseo instead. We knew absolutely nothing about it before visiting, and it quickly stole our hearts. It is the perfect day trip from Milan , Bergamo, or even Venice!

I really didn’t know what to expect, but the only thing I could say once we arrived was, “why isn’t everyone traveling here?!” This lake is seriously the perfect day trip – and I would have gladly spent a few nights here soaking it all up.

Nestled between Lake Como and Lake Garda in Lombardo, you’ll find the beautiful Lake Iseo. Lake Iseo, which is located near the charming cities of Brescia and Bergamo, is the least popular lake in Italy’s Lombardo region.

Surrounding the lake you’ll find small, picturesque towns, and in the center of the lake is the beautiful Monte Isola. It is the very place to spend a day (or two) escaping the summer heat in Italy.

Before we dive into the article, here are some popular tours in Northern Italy if you are in a rush:

Top-5 popular tours in Northern Italy

• Enjoy a scenic train ride and Lake Como on this tour
• Explore Verona and Lake Garda on this day trip from Bergamo
• Enjoy a private tour to a vineyard and Bergamo starting and ending in Milan
• Enjoy a private Italian cooking class in the charming city of Bergamo
• Take a kayak trip on Lake Iseo

Where is Lake Iseo located?

You’ll find Lake Iseo nestled almost directly between Brescia and Bergamo, two of the best places to visit in Northern Italy. The lake is located in the Lombardo region of Italy . 

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Things to do at Lake Iseo, Italy

Lake Iseo is an off-the-beaten-path experience compared to its more famous neighbors, Lake Como and Lake Garda. This hidden gem is packed with amazing things to do, whether you’re looking to explore a charming village, swim in the cool, crisp water, or hike in the mountainous trails above the lake. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Lake Iseo!

Explore the charming towns around the lake 

Lake Iseo is surrounded by small, charming towns. Popular towns include Iseo, Sulzano, Marone, and Sale Marasino in the south and east, and Lovere and Castro in northwest.

Iseo is the tourist capital of the lake, while Lovere has consistently been labeled as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.

You can easily long sections along the lake on the various walking paths, either circling back to your car or getting back to Point A by boat or train.

Even though the lake looks small, it is actually well over 40 miles to walk around the entire lake. It takes just under 2 hours to drive the entire route , and 3-4 hours to bike it.

Go for a swim

One of the best things to do in Lago Iseo is to cool off from the hot Italian sun with a swim. When we visiting in late August, Italy was in the middle of a heatwave. With temperatures hovering around 100 degree Fahrenheit (38 Celcius), Lake Iseo was an amazing escape from the heat.

There are tons of great swimming spots along Lake Iseo. For example, in Iseo you’ll find some small beaches, whereas if you get closer to Sale Marasino and Marone you’ll find that most swimming areas are simply steps that descend straight into the water.

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Right across the street from BRIOLA 1955 you’ll find a perfect little swimming area away from the crowds.

Visiting the largest lake island in Europe – Monte Isola

One of the most popular things to do when visiting Lake Iseo is to visit Monte Isola – the largest inhabited lake island in Europe. You can easily reach the island by ferry, with routes from Sulzano to Peschiera Maraglio and Sale Marasino to Carzano.

Once on the island you’ll find restaurants, shops, cafes, and tons of charming roads to explore. Make sure to check out Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola.

Rent a boat 

One of the best ways to explore the lake is from the lake itself! Whether that is by boat , kayak , SUP board , or even kitesurfing. You’ll find tons of companies around the lake that offer bother rentals and guided tours.

Bike around the lake perimeter

While the lake isn’t a bit too large to walking around, the 40 mile (65km) trail around the lake offers an amazing opportunity for road bikers. This is one of the best ways to explore all of the quaint villages surrounding the beautiful lake.

Hike the trails of the surrounding mountains 

The hills surrounding Lake Iseo provide endless scenic trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. There are so many different trails to choose from, suitable for all levels.

One of the most popular trails is the Ancient Valerian Road which connects the eastern part of the lake between Pilzone d’Iseo and Pisogne and is just about 15 miles (24 km) long.

Visit the Lake Iseo cultural attractions – museums and churches 

You’ll find tons of history and culture in the various villages around the lake. Here are a few that you don’t want to miss:

• Basilica of S. Maria in Valvendra
• View from the Civic Tower
• Galleria dell’Accademia Tadini
• Pieve di Sant’Andrea
• Church of Santa Maria del Mercato
• Piazza Garibaldi

Visit the Big Benches

A series of seven benches have been installed through the Lake Iseo region as a way to promote getting out into nature. The larger-than-life benches are also a great photo opportunity, especially for families with children!

Try local delicacies 

Like any region in Italy, you’ll find a number of local delicacies in Lake Iseo. One example is the risotto al nero di seppia (cuttlefish ink risotto), as well as freshwater fish from the lake.

Pair your meal with a glass of Franciacorta wine to complete the experience, of course.

Visit the nearby wineries of Franciacorta

Lake Iseo is located in the renowned Franciacorta wine region, famous for its sparkling wines. A great way to explore the area is to visit one of the local vineyards. Many of these vineyards offer tours and tastings.

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The Best Things to do in Bergamo, Italy

How to get to Lake Iseo

Lake Iseo is strategically located near some of the best places to visit in Northern Italy, making it a perfect day trip. 

The lake can be reached by car or train. 

If you have a car , then planning a day trip to Lake Iseo is super easy. We found that it much easier and much more affordable to book a car in Bergamo, when compared to Milan. Even if you’re staying in Milan, you can easily take a quick train ride to Bergamo to pick up the car , which will also help you to avoid some of the city traffic.

Below are driving distances from popular areas:

Milan > Lake Iseo: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Brescia > Lake Iseo: 30 minutes

Bergamo > Lake Iseo: 45 minutes

Verona > Lake Iseo: 1 hour 15 minutes 

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🚗 If you are planning to rent a car, I highly recommend learning to drive a manual car (or traveling someone who knows. If you your car with DiscoverCars you’ll be able to save so much money if you book a manual car! We paid just $25/day during the high season.

By train 

Lake Iseo is also super accessible by train at one of the main stations around the lake. Popular stops around the lake include Sale Marasino and Sulzano. You will need to take a train to Brescia, and then transfer to a train directly to one of the lakeside stops. 

Tickets can be purchased in-person at the train station or ahead of time online. 

Book your train tickets here

Getting around Lake Iseo 

By car .

If you’ve traveled to Lake Iseo by car, then you can easily continue exploring the area, and the surrounding mountains by car. While having a car is super convenient for heading uphill away from the lake, it is not the best way to explore the villages on the lake’s perimeter.

This is because the lake is actually quite big, so traveling along the outside of it takes some time. Exploring by car is great if you only want to visit one of two areas, otherwise you’re better off leaving your car parked and hopping on a ferry.

You could drive the entire perimeter of the lake in just under two hours.

By ferry 

There are ferries that operate on the lake, to connect various villages. This is a good way to get to Monte Isola, for example. You can check out the ferry schedule here .

By boat 

If you want to quickly access many parts of the lake, renting a boat is a great way to do that! You can also choose to join a tour, like this amazing sailing trip around Lake Iseo .

Where to stay near Lake Iseo

If you are visiting Lake Iseo, you can either visit as a day trip from nearby cities like Bergamo or Brescia , or you can choose to actually spend a night or two at the lake.

Hotel Antica

Hotel Antica is a gorgeous property just outside of Brescia, just a short drive from Lake Iseo. Except a delicious local breakfast.

Here are few well-rated hotels for both options:

• Bergamo: Domity’s Quarto Verde
• Brescia: Hotel Antica Fonte
• Lake Iseo: Hotel Miranda
• Lake Iseo: Galleria Imperiale Suites
• Lake Iseo: Agriturismo Forest B&B

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Visiting Northern Italy? Here are some other articles to check out:

• Italy Road Trip Itinerary
• Visiting Lago di Braies
• What to Know About Rifugios in the Dolomites
• How to get to the Dolomites

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Iseo, Italy is a town on Lake Iseo

The town of Iseo is on the south-east shores of Lake Iseo in northern Italy and is one of the larger towns on the lake.

Exploring Iseo

Italy This Way review: Iseo is quite a pleasant town to visit but there is not a great deal to see and it is much less of a resort than we expected when compared with, for example, Desenzano del Garda or Riva del Garda (both on Lake Garda).

The town has two areas to explore: the harbour and town along the edge of the lake, and the historic centre of Iseo. The two are connected by a large square, the Piazza Garibaldi, with arcades along the sides and a large fountain covered with moss and supporting a statue of Garibaldi in the middle, as well as the town hall for Iseo, the Vantini Palace.

After a stroll around the harbour you can follow the long promenade in Iseo, one of the highlights of a visit because of the lovely views across the lake. Returning to the town centre, behind the main square there are several streets in the historic centre, with colourful buildings and small shops and cafes.

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One of the most important monuments in Iseo is the Pieva of Saint-Andrew, an imposing church with a belltower in the centre of the facade and a gothic arch in the facade. Even before this church was built in the 12th century there was a Roman temple on the same site, and the church was enlarged in the 19th century. The inside of the church is quite remarkable for its painted ceiling, the dome and the trompe l'oeil painting behind the altar.

Just across from this church there is a small ancient church in need of renovation that contains some very lovely medieval frescoes.

To the east of the town centre you can see the Oldofredi Castle, a well maintained fortified castle built in the 12th century. The castle now holds a War Museum and a public library. Next to the castle you can see another important church, the Santuario della Madonna della Neve, built in the 17th century on the site of an older church to celebrate a miracle: a man who was unable to walk had prayed at the earlier church and could immediately walk again.

Attractions nearby

A short distance west of the town you can visit a popular Lido at Lido Belvedere Iseo, which as the name suggests has pretty views across the lake. The pool and park can be very busy in summer!

For more attractions see the Lake Iseo guide .

You can find more local travel ideas in the Brescia guide and the Lombardy guide .

Photos of Iseo

Click any picture to start the gallery

Map of Iseo and places to visit

Iseo places to visit.

Sulzano is a small village and port and departure point for ferries to Monte Isola

Monte Isola

Monte Isola, with villages including Peschiera and Siviano, is a lovely island in Lake Iseo

Sarnico is a town on south Lake Iseo with a small historic centre and a long promenade

Lovere is pretty village with an impressive basilica at the northern end of Lake Iseo

Pisogne is a small town with a medieval tower and a 15th century church with remarkable frescoes

Slightly off the usual tourist trails, Brescia has a castle and a cathedral among its historic highlights

...or see all our recommended places to visit in Lombardy

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The Top 10 Things To Do Around Lake Iseo, Italy

Lake Iseo , in northern Italy , is relatively unknown to most people outside of the country. But with so much to see and do year-round, there’s no doubt that it is soon to be discovered. We look at the top 10 things to do in and round this beautiful lakeside area.

Hike the hills

The hills surrounding Lake Iseo offer a fantastic variety of hiking trails for people of all skill levels. Walk the paths along the shore to better appreciate its clear waters and natural beauty, or pick a more strenuous trail like the Punta Almana, which culminates with glorious views of the Monte Isola (the largest lake island in the country), the rising alps and the waters of the lake.

Monte Isola, the island in the middle of Lake Iseo, is well worth the boat trip on its own. There are about 1,800 people who live here, spread out over eleven different villages. Sights include several churches built between the 15th and 17th centuries that contain frescoes, statues and other art, while the well-preserved medieval castle, Rocca Martinengo, is another attraction.

Hit the slopes

The area around Lake Iseo truly has a few excellent resorts where skiers can hit the slopes. The Montecampione Ski Resort is just a 15-minute drive north-east of the lake. The resort offers three different lodging options and numerous runs tailored to families, beginners, and also intermediate and advanced level skiers. Montecampione’s close proximity to Milan makes it a favorite retreat with Italians.

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Eat some lake fish

A visit to Lake Iseo is not complete without trying some of the local fare, particularly the fish that comes straight from the lake. Tinca, or tench, is the king of the area, and is typically prepared in the oven. Head to Clusane for the most authentic lake food experience; the town that lays claim to being the tinca capital of these parts.

Take a ferry ride

Ferries are constantly criss-crossing their way across the waters here, going to and from the various towns on the shores of the lake. A trip from one side to the other can take up to three hours, depending on the number of stops along the way. And while a ferry ride may not be the most efficient method of travel, it certainly is the most picturesque.

Visit Castello di Grumello

Overlooking the village of Grumello del Monte in between Bergamo and Lake Iseo, this castle dates all the way back to the Middle Ages. Nowadays, the tower, back gate, knights’ hall and cellar all remain from the original structure and are open for exploration. But the fortress isn’t the only draw here, there is also a winery that produces about 100,000 bottles each year.

Experience nature

Just off the southern tip of Lake Iseo lies the Riserva Naturale Torbiere del Sebino . This wetland is protected as an important area for biodiversity in the Po Valley of Lombardy, as there are a number of endangered plants and animals that live here. A hiking trail around the reserve allows visitors to explore the nature of this stretch.

Enjoy some art

The Tadini Academy Gallery was built between 1821 and 1826 to display the art collection of Count Luigi Tadini. The gallery represents one of the oldest collections in all of Lombardy. Highlighting the museum’s collection is the sculpture work by the Venetian Antonio Canova, with whom Tadini had a close relationship.

Tour the lake by bike

Mountain bikers can climb up through the forests to some of the higher altitudes nearby. For the complete Lake Iseo cycling experience, follow the ‘Giro del Lago’ itinerary: a 40-mile adventure around the entire lake that usually takes about four hours to complete.

Hit the ‘little’ beach

Want some sun or a dip in the water? Then head over to the area known as La Spiaggetta, or ‘the little beach’. The perfect spot to relax after a long day of touring Lake Iseo, La Spiaggetta is a grassy beach area that is free and open to the public. Plus, there is a small bar to grab a refreshing drink and a snack while enjoying the beautiful view of the lake.

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I've lived in Italy for a decade. Here are the hidden-gem locations you've been missing

• As a child, I traveled around Italy on family vacations and now live in the northern Veneto region.
• Over the years, I've made a conscious effort to explore the less-crowded areas of the country.
• Some of my favorite hidden gems include places like Lake Iseo, Urbino, and Alba.

In recent years, over-tourism has forced Venice to introduce a daytripper fee to combat congestion on some of the city's busiest days, and Sardinia has introduced a reservation system for some of its most popular beaches.

That said, there's never been a better time to scratch off the obvious destinations from your Italy itinerary and take a chance on a place that isn't in the guidebooks.

I've been traveling the country since childhood, initially with my parents on family vacations , and then as a resident of the northern Veneto region as a journalist.

Over the past few years, I've made a conscious effort to go where the crowds don't. Here are my recommendations if you're looking to experience Italy's culture, nature, and food without the hassle of large crowds.

The Basilicata region is filled with unique treasures.

Occupying the arch of Italy's boot, Basilicata has never been a region of prosperity or fame. However, one place you may have seen on standard tourist itineraries is Matera.

Matera is filled with caves where inhabitants lived in poverty until the 1950s . Now, however, visitors can duck into rock-hewn churches and sleep in five-star cave hotels. You may have even spotted the city in the James Bond movie "No Time to Die."

The rest of the Basilicata region shouldn't be overlooked either. It's peppered with treasures from the village of Castelmezzano — which clings to jagged rock face — to the Maratea coastline with black beaches and summery villages.

Although it's known as the region that "doesn't exist," Molise has a lot to offer.

Ironically, Molise is best known as the region that " doesn't exist " — an phrase stemming from the fact that even Italians struggle to pinpoint it on a map or name more than one of its cities.

The region lies on Italy's eastern coastline just north of Puglia. Its capital, Campobasso, is crowned by the mountaintop Monforte Castle.

My favorite city in the region, however, is coastal Termoli, with pastel-painted houses inside ancient walls, a honey-hued cathedral, and a Belvedere Tower with pretty views of the harbor.

Don't miss out on the restaurants serving the famed brodetto alla termolese, a rich tomato and pepper-based seafood soup that originated in Termoli .

Skip crowded Lake Como and check out Lake Iseo instead.

With flashy Lake Como to one side and sun-drenched Lake Garda to the other, it's not surprising that Lake Iseo gets overlooked. However, the over 15-mile-long body of water has its fair share of elegant, flower-adorned villages and waterside promenades.

I recommend taking a ferry to car-free Monte Isola, which is known as the biggest lake island in Europe .

Once there, visitors can rent bikes and peddle around the nature-rich perimeter of the island, or hike up the path to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola on the island's mountain summit.

Urbino was a center for art and learning in the Renaissance Era.

Urbino is a walled city in the central Marche region of Italy. The city was a hotbed of learning and art during the Renaissance Era under the rule of Federico da Montefeltro.

A highlight of Urbino is the monumental 15th-century building called Palazzo Ducale, which is now known as the National Gallery of the Marche.

Travelers can visit the complex and wander the cavernous rooms displaying paintings by artists like Raphael, who was born in the city.

Alba is known for great food, wine, and shopping.

Alba is the elegant, upscale capital of Piedmont's Le Langhe , a hilly zone draped with vineyards and wineries.

Before slipping into a post-lunch food coma at one of the many restaurants, wander the pristine city, and window shop at its high-end stores.

Then, head to stylish bars that offer a range of stellar local wines, including potent reds like Barolo and Barbaresco.

Alba is also known for producing the white truffle , which is hunted by experts and their sharp-nosed dogs. Each year, Alba's International White Truffle Fair showcases and celebrates the prized tuber.

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Title: docmaster: a unified platform for annotation, training, & inference in document question-answering.

Abstract: The application of natural language processing models to PDF documents is pivotal for various business applications yet the challenge of training models for this purpose persists in businesses due to specific hurdles. These include the complexity of working with PDF formats that necessitate parsing text and layout information for curating training data and the lack of privacy-preserving annotation tools. This paper introduces DOCMASTER, a unified platform designed for annotating PDF documents, model training, and inference, tailored to document question-answering. The annotation interface enables users to input questions and highlight text spans within the PDF file as answers, saving layout information and text spans accordingly. Furthermore, DOCMASTER supports both state-of-the-art layout-aware and text models for comprehensive training purposes. Importantly, as annotations, training, and inference occur on-device, it also safeguards privacy. The platform has been instrumental in driving several research prototypes concerning document analysis such as the AI assistant utilized by University of California San Diego's (UCSD) International Services and Engagement Office (ISEO) for processing a substantial volume of PDF documents.

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