Once an important textile manufacturing hub, Luino is now a residential hub for “frontalieri” who commute between Italy and neighbouring Switzerland for work. It is famed for its weekly market, which is one of the largest in the Lake Maggiore area and includes stalls selling fresh cheese, cold meats and locally caught fish.
Things to do in Luino
In the heart of Luino is the Chiesa di San Pietro in Campagna, which stands on the site of a church dating back to the 12th century. Admire the gabled facade and the tiled roof before stepping inside to explore the three-nave interior. It features a stucco-decorated barrel vault, as well as the traces of 16th-century frescoes depicting the “Adoration of the Magi”.
Occupying a 19th-century locomotive shed adjacent to the railway station is the Museo Ferroviario del Verbano, which houses a fascinating collection of railway artefacts and equipment. Admire the vintage lights, signs and tools on display, as well as conductor uniforms and documents relating to the history of the Gotthard Line. On select days of the month, steam locomotive journeys are offered aboard the Verbano Express.
Stretching along Luino’s lakefront is Parco a Lago, a peaceful green space where you’ll find a children’s playground and a waterside cafe. It extends to the town’s marina and is watched over by the elegant Chiesa Madonna del Carmine. A short walk inland is Parco Ferrini, which encompasses a children’s carousel and a dog park.
Getting around Luino
Luino is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Milan and one hour from Milan Malpensa Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Luino railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Luino can easily be explored on foot.