Part of the stunning Italian Lakes district, Lake Maggiore is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, adding yet more gorgeous scenery to its shores. Popular year-round with tourists who travel from Milan for day trips—and from places far beyond—the island towns surrounding Lake Maggiore (Italy’s second largest) offer botanical gardens, hiking and biking trails, and scenic seaside views. Explore popular Stresa and towns like Angera and Sesto Calende, which date back to ancient times.