Free walking tours in Cannobio and what to see

Must-sees

Cannobio is on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, in Piedmont, very close to the Swiss border. Its old town runs down to the water in a maze of cobbled alleys, stairways and passages, and opens onto the lakeside promenade, with colourful façades, terraces and moored boats. By the water stands the sanctuary of the Santissima Pietà, a church linked to the miracle of the Sacra Costa, much venerated in the town. The centre also keeps the 13th-century Palazzo della Ragione, now restored and used for exhibitions.

A few kilometres up the Cannobina valley is the Orrido di Sant'Anna, a narrow gorge carved by the Cannobino stream, with a stone bridge and a small church above. The valley has many trails climbing through woods and stone hamlets. In summer, the Lido beach north of the town has a swimming area and sailing. There is a market in town on Sundays.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free tours in Cannobio. Civitatis mainly offers activities in the area, such as a hike with wine tasting in the Ossola valley, north of the lake. To get around the lake, scheduled boats stop at the town and take you to Cannero, other lakeside villages or towards Switzerland.

How long to spend

The town can be seen in two or three hours, including a stroll along the shore and some time on a terrace. With a full day you can add the Orrido di Sant'Anna and a short walk in the Cannobina valley. If you stay three or four days, Cannobio is a good base for getting around the lake by boat and visiting Locarno or the Borromean Islands.

Where to stay

The nicest choice is to stay in the centre or on the lakeside promenade, with small hotels and apartments looking over the water. Towards the Lido and the river mouth there are campsites and family accommodation, more practical with a car. In the Cannobina valley you will find quiet rural houses a few minutes from the lake.