Lake Trasimeno (Lago Trasimeno)

Lake Trasimeno sits along the border between Umbria and Tuscany, and a stop here often is included in tours departing from Rome or Florence that take in the nearby towns of Perugia, Assisi, Orvieto, and Cortona.

In addition to taking a dip or sail in the water, explore the idyllic countryside around Lake Trasimeno via the ring trail skirting the shore or the hiking and cycling trails through the surrounding hills. Lake Trasimeno is known for its excellent local cuisine and wine, so opt for a food tour that includes transportation to experience the lake’s specialites without the hassle of driving.

• A lake excursion promises fun for kids and active travelers, who can swim, windsurf, and take walks along the shore.

• Day trips include time to explore the lakeside towns on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

• Bring your camera to capture images of photogenic Lake Trasimeno and its surrounding towns.

• The ferries are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the beaches are difficult to navigate.

Lake Trasimeno is about two hours north of Rome and two hours south of Florence by car. The regional train stops at a number of the lakeside towns, though the easiest way to visit is by joining a day trip that includes transportation.

The area around the lake is particularly beautiful in the spring and fall, but time your visit for summer if you are hoping to take a dip in the water.

Lake Trasimeno has three islands: Polvese, Maggiore, and Minore. Ferries run to Polvese and Maggiore, and there are restaurants, trails, and beaches on both these islands. Minore is private. Along the lakeshore, the main towns include the picturesque Castiglione del Lago, set on a promontory that juts out into the lake and known for its crenelated castle; Passignano sul Trasimeno, with its resort-like atmosphere and panoramic fortress; and San Feliciano, where colorful fishing boats line the shore and waterfront restaurants serve pike, eel, and other lake specialties.