Italy, Piedmont, Orta San Giulio

Welcome to Orta San Giulio, Italy

Orta San Giulio is a small town located in the province of Novara in the Piedmont region of Italy. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Orta, it is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque views and unique culture.

The town is known for its quaint cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the lake. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow alleyways, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. At the center of the town is the main square, Piazza Motta, where visitors can find the town’s main attractions, including the Church of San Giulio, the Palazzo della Magnifica Comunità, and the Palazzo della Comunità.

The Church of San Giulio is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Built in the 12th century, it is home to the tomb of Saint Giulio, the patron saint of the town. The Palazzo della Magnifica Comunità is a 16th-century palace that houses the town’s civic offices. The Palazzo della Comunità is a 15th-century building that was once the home of the local nobility.

The town is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Sacred Art, the Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Visitors can also explore the nearby islands of San Giulio and Madre, which are connected to the mainland by a bridge.

The town is also a popular destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, go fishing, or take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shore. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the Via dei Monti, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Orta San Giulio is a charming town with a unique culture and stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, this town has something for everyone.

Must see attractions

  • Sacro Monte di Orta: - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacro Monte di Orta is a pilgrimage site with a series of chapels and frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi.
  • Isola di San Giulio: - This small island in the middle of Lake Orta is home to a basilica and the ruins of a 4th-century monastery.
  • Museo delle Arti Popolari: - Located in the former convent of San Francesco, this museum houses a collection of traditional crafts and artifacts from the area.
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta: - This 12th-century Romanesque church is known for its frescoes and its Baroque-style interior.
  • Parco Regionale della Valle d'Orta: - This nature reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as a number of hiking trails.

Nearest cities

  • Stresa, Italy: 16.3 km
  • Verbania, Italy: 16.6 km
  • Arona, Italy: 22.2 km
  • Novara, Italy: 25.9 km
  • Arona, Italy: 28.7 km

Nearest airports

  • Malpensa International Airport (MXP) - 30.46 km*
  • Lugano Airport (LUG) - 44.68 km*
  • Milano Linate Airport (LIN) - 77.51 km*
  • Aosta Airport (AOT) - 81.51 km*
  • Turin Airport (TRN) - 89.22 km*

Nearest train stations

  • Orta-Miasino - 0.41 km*
  • Corconio Ameno - 2.22 km*
  • Pettenasco - 2.74 km*
  • Bolzano Novarese - 4.06 km*
  • Gozzano - 6.13 km*
  • Omegna - 8.37 km*
  • Meina - 9.21 km*
* Approximate distance to the city centre in a straight line