The Picturesque Lake In Italy That Matches Lake Como's Beauty Minus The Crowds

Italy is a country that should be on everyone's bucket list. From the historic towns, monuments, and architecture, to crystal-clear lakes, pristine beaches, and mesmerizing hilltop towns, it is a country that is not to be missed. One very popular destination that welcomes over a million visitors each year is Lake Como. The charming medieval towns on Lake Como are a must, with incredible views, waterfront promenades, enchanting small boutiques, and a ferry that drops you from one captivating village to the next. There's a good reason why George Clooney has a house there! Add to that the incredible shades of pink that twinkle on the lake's waters at sunset and you'll never want to leave. 

But while this popular destination is worth the hype, other hidden gems offer the same unique experience minus the crowds and inflated prices. One such destination is Lake Trasimeno, snuggled next to the Tuscan border in the central Italian region of Umbria. This place still combines medieval towns, serene waters, and untouched landscapes that make it a must-see destination but the quiet ambiance makes it an even better alternative for those seeking an intimate getaway.

Lake Trasimeno is the fourth largest lake in Italy, barely trailing Lake Como. Its surface area of nearly 50 square miles is backed by Tuscany's famous rolling hills, with small houses stationed on top, making it an unbelievable destination that soothes the heart and mind with its peaceful surroundings. Around the lake, it is possible to find vineyards, olive groves, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an exciting location to kickstart your exploration of the best places in Tuscany. 

This lake comes with its own historic presence as it is the exact spot where Hannibal made his famous victory against the Romans in 217 B.C. Apart from its history, Lake Trasimeno offers so many activities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy besides its incredible landscapes. Here, you can go hiking and birdwatching to take in the beauty or explore the vineyards and olive groves for more of the Italian culture and traditions. And don't forget the exciting water sports that this lake offers for that extra bit of adrenaline, like kitesurfing or wakeboarding. If that hasn't sparked your interest, then the peaceful islands will do the trick. Explore Isola Maggiore, one of the lake's three islands that's just a ferry ride away and home to a quaint fishing village.  

Unlike its glamorous northern counterpart, prices at Lake Trasimeno are lower, with more budget options than Lake Como. You can still enjoy a similar ambiance and combination of medieval charm with natural beauty, making Lake Trasimeno an excellent alternative.

The second advantage is that this lake is ideally situated between Rome and Florence, making it an outstanding addition to your Italian trip. This idyllic lake is one of the best day trips from Rome, just 2.5 hours from Italy's capital by car and 1.5 hours from Florence. But don't forget the best advantage of all: Giving your tastebuds the ability to enjoy culinary delights native to this area. Tuck into a steaming bowl of tegamaccio — a stew made from the lake's freshwater fish — or carpa regina in porchetta — carp fish roasted with the same fragrant herbs used to make classic Italian porchetta.