Amalgamating the four localities of Pallanza, Intra, Suna e Fondotoce in 1939 formed what is today the largest township on Lago Maggiore, also known as the Garden on the Lake.
Pallanza is today a popular tourist destination with many hotels, villas and parks. The historic centre is characterised by its ancient quarter, squares and stately buildings. The Palazzo della Città, today’s Town Hall since the nineteenth century, impresses for its arcade of 32 pink granite pillars. There is an impressive view onto the Borromeo Islands from the modernised lakeside promenade. This is the town’s main meeting place, a venue for events such as the Corso Fiorito, firework displays and the Palio Remiero.
The “Museo del Paesaggio” is the most renomated museum devoted to the local landscape, regarded as one of the most grandiose cultural monuments. It was set up in 1914 in Pallanza.
The superb Villa Giulia in Pallanza is now used as a major exhibition centre, while among the opulence of the villas is Villa Taranto the main attraction for thousands of visitors every year. The Botanic Gardens are famous world wide for its flowers, shrubs and trees.
The picturesque alleyways of Intra‘s medieval town centre are today alive with the bustle of people working and shopping. The richly ornamented Palazzo Peretti is one of the most resplendent buildings in the town. Centre of business and animated hub of the town is the Piazza Ranzoni.
From the lakeside promenade you can see the ancient harbour with its imposing granite columns from Montorfano and the old landing pier. All Italian and Swiss harbours on Lago Maggiore can be reached from the new harbour.
Every Saturday on Piazza Mercato you can enjoy one of the largest weekly markets on Lago Maggiore.
