Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, Venice

National GeographicAug 22

6 Hidden Waterways That Rival Italy's Famous Lakes

While Italy’s lake region has long held glamorous appeal, the country’s lesser-known waterways can offer a more intimate experience — and a glimpse into authentic local life.

Oldest church in the Venetian Lagoon, dating back to 639 CE.

16 things in this story

TorcelloNeighborhoodStroll along quiet walkway to visit Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta.
Venetian LagoonPlaceFisherfolk catch soft-shell crabs and goby from the mudbanks.
Basilica of Santa Maria AssuntaMuseumOldest church in the Venetian Lagoon, dating back to 639 CE.
Elsewhere
Mincio RiverPlaceMantua, ItalyCycle path known as the longest 'green motorway' in country.
Valeggio sul MincioNeighborhoodMantua, ItalyRefuel with a plate of the local speciality: meat tortellini.
Lakes of PorcilePlaceComo, ItalyMountain lakes found at over 2,000 metres above sea level.
TartanoNeighborhoodComo, ItalyAlpine village known for its pastoral setting and Tibetan bridge.
Ponte nel CieloSightComo, Italy234-metre-long Tibetan bridge hanging 140 metres above valley floor.
Torrente FerPlaceDonnas, ItalyForms natural pools and waterfalls between smooth boulders and rocks.
Lake BolsenaPlaceRome, ItalyLargest volcanic lake in Europe, fringed by black sands.
CapodimonteNeighborhoodRome, ItalyQuiet beach on Lake Bolsena, take ferry to Bisentina Island.
Bisentina IslandSightRome, ItalyUninhabited island mentioned in Dante's Divine Comedy.
Lake IdroPlaceBrescia, ItalyCalm glacial lake ideal for water-based activities.
Vesta BeachSightBrescia, ItalyNatural beach on Lake Idro with turquoise waters.
Rocca D'AnfoSightBrescia, ItalyMilitary fortress built by Venetians in the 15th century.
BaitoniNeighborhoodBrescia, ItalyWander boardwalks in provincial nature reserve, spot migratory birds.

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Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta

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6 Hidden Waterways That Rival Italy's Famous Lakes