Interested in properties near Italy’s most beautiful lakes? Lake Maggiore, also known as Verbano, is one of the most sought-after destinations for purchasing a home surrounded by nature. Located between Italy and Switzerland and shared by the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, it is the second-largest lake in Italy by surface area. The name “Maggiore” (meaning “greater”) comes from its size compared to the other pre-Alpine lakes in the area. Today, it represents an ideal destination for those looking for prestigious properties, second homes, or residences immersed in a unique landscape.
A market with strong international growth
According to Il Sole 24 Ore (June 16, 2026), the real estate market around Lake Maggiore is experiencing a phase of strong growth, attracting an increasing number of international investors. Foreign demand currently accounts for approximately 60% of the area’s market, with buyers mainly coming from the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Lifestyle, international visibility, and attractiveness
According to the newspaper, another factor that has strengthened the international visibility of Lake Maggiore is the purchase of a villa in Meina, in the Novara area, by fashion designer Donatella Versace in 2019. This event has further put the spotlight on an area already considered high-end, helping to consolidate its image as an iconic destination for lifestyle, fashion, and luxury living.
Since 2022, the local real estate market has shown steady growth, with increases reaching up to 18% in some areas, confirming a demand that is increasingly structural rather than purely seasonal. As reported by several media outlets, Lake Maggiore is now considered an ideal destination for year-round living. The region offers a wide range of events and cultural and recreational opportunities, making it attractive and livable not only during the summer months but throughout all seasons.
A strategic hub between Milan, Switzerland, and Lake Como
In this context, Lake Maggiore firmly establishes itself among the most sought-after destinations in Lombardy and neighboring areas, alongside two locations already discussed in previous articles: Milan and Lake Como. Compared to the latter, Lake Maggiore often represents an appealing alternative, characterised by more affordable average prices while still offering a high quality of life.
Moreover, its strategic location makes it a true residential hub: proximity to Switzerland, easy access to Milan, and a balance between services and nature all contribute to its strong attractiveness. Among the most in-demand locations are Stresa, Verbania, Arona, and Cannero Riviera, each with distinctive features and strong real estate appeal.
Property values and market dynamics
Il Sole 24 Ore also reports several significant information regarding the local real estate market. As of 2025, housing prices have recorded growth of up to 3%, with average values reaching approximately €3,500 per square meter.
In the case of properties with direct lake access, the market shows even higher levels: for these specific types of real estate, values can increase by as much as 20%, reaching peaks of up to €10,000 per square meter. This confirms the strong demand for waterfront properties and their highly exclusive nature.
Most in-demand property types
The most sought-after property types in the Lake Maggiore area clearly reflect the premium positioning of the local real estate market. In particular, there is strong interest in:
- historic villas;
- lakefront residences;
- countryside estates surrounded by greenery with large private land.
However, the appeal of the area is not limited to residential use alone: there is also growing demand for high-end hospitality and luxury accommodation projects, confirming Lake Maggiore as an increasingly strategic destination both for living and for investment.
Buying a Home on Lake Maggiore with a Mortgage: the Importance of Support from a Credit Intermediary
Are you thinking about buying a home on Lake Maggiore? Whether it is a villa, a lakefront residence, or an apartment in one of the area’s most renowned villages, obtaining a mortgage from abroad can be complex.
For foreign citizens living abroad and for Italians residing abroad and registered with AIRE, FIDEA – Top Italian Mortgage, a credit intermediary specializing in international clients and operating across Italy, offers specialised consultancy to simplify the entire process. From assessing mortgage eligibility to approval, the team supports the buyer at every stage, also handling documentation and banking procedures.
Thanks to solid industry experience and in-depth knowledge of the Italian real estate market, Top Italian Mortgage assists international clients, making the purchasing process simpler, safer, and more transparent.