Trip to Luino
Charm and diversity on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore
Luino, located on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, offers tourists a fascinating blend of nature, culture and tradition. The town is not a picture-postcard sensation like Stresa, but that is precisely what makes it so appealing. This cosy little town combines lively everyday culture with a magnificent lakeside location and cultural heritage – a worthwhile stop for connoisseurs, history buffs and lake lovers alike.
1. Market – Europe's largest weekly market
Every Wednesday morning, Luino comes to life: up to 400 market stalls transform the waterfront promenade and narrow streets into a riot of colour. Clothing, handicrafts, fresh produce – visitors from across the region come here to shop. Luino was granted market rights by Emperor Charles V in 1541 and remains a lively traditional market town to this day. An unmissable event for immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the village.
Tip: arrive early – the traders start at around 6 a.m. Combined with coffee and a morning stroll along the lake promenade, it’s an authentic experience.
2. Lakeside promenade & Seepromenade
A green promenade runs along the lake shore: cafés, palm trees, benches – ideal for a stroll with panoramic views. When the weather is fine, the view of Lake Maggiore and the Alps opposite dominates.
Tip: in the late afternoon, descend the steps to the shore – wonderful for short breaks by the water, preferably with a coffee or aperitif.
3. Historic churches and sacred buildings
Luino surprises visitors with several churches worth seeing:
- Santuario Madonna del Carmine: A pilgrimage church from the 15th–16th centuries, with valuable frescoes and a Baroque portal.
- Parish Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo: Central parish church, rich in works of art and stucco work.
- Chiesa di San Pietro in Campagna: Just outside the town, with a Romanesque campanile and impressive frescoes, some of which are attributed to Bramantino.
Tip: A peaceful visit and an opportunity to enjoy art, even in bad weather – ideal in combination with a trip to the market or a walk.
4. Palazzo Verbania & Cultural Centre
The magnificent Art Nouveau building on the lake shore now houses a cultural centre and the tourist office. Renovated in 2019, it attracts visitors with changing exhibitions and literary and artistic archives.
Tip: Ask about current exhibitions on site – inspiration changes weekly.
5. Museo Ferroviario del Verbano – for all railway enthusiasts
This small railway museum in the station building displays old locomotives, carriages and technical exhibits. It is usually open on the second and fourth Saturday of the month, from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm.
Tip: Particularly interesting for technology enthusiasts – allow half a day and combine your visit with a train journey to the neighbouring village.
6. Starting point for excursions and activities
- Cycling and hiking trails: e.g. Luino–Valcuvia cycle path, ideal for active holidays.
- Ferries & boats: Good connections to the Borromean Islands, Stresa or Cannero — perfect for day trips.
- Close to the Swiss border: Only 10 km to Ponte Tresa — a trip to Lugano or Ascona offers Swiss highlights near Luino.
Getting here & getting around
- Train: Luino is the terminus of the S30 (Gallarate ↔ Bellinzona), better accessible by regional train.
- Car: Via A8 / A2 – see connection to Varese or Lugano.
- Boat & bus: Ferry connections to the north and south shores; bus lines to the hinterland available.