· IT

Arona

Arona, Piedmont, Italy

Arona, located in the picturesque region of Piedmont, Italy, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated along the western shore of Lake Maggiore, Arona is a popular d…

#Arona#Piedmont#Italy#Lake Maggiore#Historic town

1/3

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Arona.

Top Hotels in Arona

Top Flights to Arona

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Arona.

Tours

Visit the Rocca Borromeo di Angera

Explore the historical Rocca Borromeo castle overlooking Lake Maggiore with its beautiful gardens and museum.

Shopping

Shopping at Corso Cavour

Discover a variety of boutiques and shops along Corso Cavour, a popular shopping street in Arona.

Outdoor

Stroll along Lungolago di Arona

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakefront promenade with stunning views of Lake Maggiore.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Arona.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Not Available

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Arona

Jan

6°-1°

Feb

8°0°

Mar

13°3°

Apr

16°7°

May

20°11°

Jun

24°15°

Jul

27°18°

Aug

26°17°

Sep

22°14°

Oct

16°9°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

6°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Arona.

What people love

Arona, located in Piedmont, Italy, offers several pros for travelers looking to visit this charming town:

Scenic Views: Arona is situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, providing stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeshore or take a boat ride to explore the area.
Historical Attractions: Arona is home to several historical landmarks, including the colossal statue of San Carlo Borromeo, which stands at over 23 meters tall. The town also has a picturesque old town with medieval buildings and charming streets to explore.
Cultural Experiences: Arona hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local traditions and customs of Piedmont.
Culinary Delights: Piedmont is known for its delicious cuisine, and Arona is no exception. Visitors can enjoy authentic Italian dishes at local restaurants and cafes, featuring fresh ingredients and regional specialties.
Convenient Location: Arona is well-connected by train and road, making it easily accessible for travelers. It is also a great base for exploring other nearby attractions in the Piedmont region, such as the Borromean Islands and the town of Stresa.

Overall, Arona offers a mix of natural beauty, historical charm, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Piedmont, Italy.

Enjoy your trip to Arona!

What to know

Arona, located in the Piedmont region of Italy, is a beautiful town with a lot to offer visitors. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to traveling to Arona. Here are a few to consider:

Limited public transportation: Arona is a smaller town, and while it is well-connected by train and bus services to nearby cities, public transportation within the town itself may be limited. This could make it challenging to explore the area without a car.
Crowds during peak tourist season: Arona is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to crowded streets, restaurants, and attractions, which may detract from the overall experience for some travelers.
Language barrier: While many people in Arona and Italy speak English, you may encounter some language barriers, especially in more rural areas or with older residents. It is always helpful to have some basic knowledge of Italian phrases to help navigate communication challenges.
Limited dining options for specific dietary restrictions: While Italian cuisine is delicious, if you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, you may find that there are limited dining options available in Arona that cater to your needs. It's always a good idea to research restaurants in advance or communicate your dietary requirements clearly when dining out.

Overall, Arona is a charming destination with much to offer visitors, but it's important to consider these potential cons when planning your trip.

Arona is a picturesque town located in the Piedmont region of Italy, on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. It has a rich history that stretches back to ancient times, with many notable events, historical figures, and landmarks contributing to its legacy.

Ancient and Medieval Period

Roman Times: Arona's history dates back to Roman times, when it was known as a strategic location due to its position on Lake Maggiore. It was part of the Roman Empire’s road network which contributed to its development.
Middle Ages: In medieval times, the area was under the control of various local lords and was often contested due to its strategic importance. It became part of the Visconti domain in the 13th century.

Renaissance Period

Sforza Family: In the Renaissance, the town was controlled by the powerful Sforza family. They were instrumental in developing the town's infrastructure and fortifications.
Saint Charles Borromeo: Arona is notably the birthplace of Saint Charles Borromeo (1538–1584), a cardinal who played a key role in the Counter-Reformation. He was born in the Arona Castle, and his legacy is a significant part of the town's identity.

Modern Period

18th and 19th Centuries: During the 18th century, Arona became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia and later unified with the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century. This period saw industrial and infrastructural growth.
20th Century: Arona, like much of Italy, was affected by the World Wars, but it continued to grow as a tourist destination due to its scenic beauty and historical landmarks.

Key Landmarks

Rocca Borromea of Arona: Though largely in ruins, this historic castle was the birthplace of Saint Charles Borromeo. It offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore and is a site of historical significance.
Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo (Sancarlone): This immense statue, standing about 35 meters tall, is dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo. It was constructed between 1697 and 1698 and is one of the tallest statues in the world. Visitors can climb inside to reach a viewing platform in the head of the statue.
Arona City Hall: Located in the town center, this building is an example of the town's civic architecture and serves as a hub for local governance.
Church of Saints Graziano and Felino: This historic church is a testament to Arona’s religious heritage and features significant artistic works.

Cultural and Economic Development

Arona has developed a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous events and festivals celebrating its heritage and location by the lake.
The town has also developed economically, with tourism being a significant part of its economy, thanks to its historical sites and beautiful surroundings.

Arona's combination of historical significance, connection to notable figures like Saint Charles Borromeo, and its picturesque setting make it a fascinating destination both historically and culturally.