HOME
THE REGIONS OF ITALY
PLACES IN ITALY
Italy in Photos
Basilica di S. Vittore Intra, 28922 Intra VB, Italy (August 2020)
Intra
Intra is a charming town located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. It forms part of the municipality of Verbania, which sits in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. This picturesque town is known for its scenic lake views, historic architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere that combines small-town charm with natural beauty. Intra offers visitors a unique glimpse into the cultural and historical richness of the Lake Maggiore area, making it an appealing destination for those seeking both tranquillity and discovery.
Geographically, Intra enjoys a privileged location along the shores of one of Italy’s largest and most beautiful lakes. Lake Maggiore stretches into both Italy and Switzerland, with Intra positioned perfectly to take advantage of its calm waters and stunning mountain backdrop. The town is surrounded by gently rolling hills and forested areas, providing opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors. The lakeside promenade is one of Intra’s defining features, offering a peaceful place to stroll while observing the daily life of the town and the boats that glide across the water.
Historically, Intra has roots that extend back to Roman times, and its development has been closely linked to trade, transportation, and the lake itself. In the past, the town served as a hub for commerce and communication, benefiting from its strategic position along the lake. Many historic buildings, villas, and churches still stand in Intra, reflecting architectural styles from various periods and offering insight into the town’s evolution over the centuries. Among its notable landmarks is the parish church, which showcases intricate designs and artwork that highlight the town’s religious and cultural heritage.
Culture plays an important role in Intra’s identity. The town is home to small museums and galleries that preserve local traditions, crafts, and history. Events and festivals occur throughout the year, celebrating music, food, and seasonal changes. These occasions allow visitors to engage with local customs and experience the warmth of the community. The cultural scene in Intra is intimate yet vibrant, reflecting the values of a town that values its past while embracing modern life.
Culinary traditions in Intra are closely tied to the region and the lake. Freshwater fish from Lake Maggiore often appears on menus, prepared in simple yet flavourful ways that highlight the quality of the ingredients. Regional dishes feature local vegetables, cheeses, and cured meats, accompanied by wines produced in the surrounding hills. Markets in Intra offer seasonal produce and artisanal goods, giving residents and visitors a chance to enjoy authentic Italian food in a setting that feels personal and connected to the land.
Outdoor activities are another attraction of Intra. The lake itself provides opportunities for boating, sailing, and fishing, while the nearby hills and trails offer hiking and nature walks. The combination of water and land makes it easy to explore diverse landscapes in a single day. The town’s location also allows convenient access to other Lake Maggiore destinations, including islands, gardens, and neighbouring villages, making it an ideal base for regional exploration.
Intra is a town that embodies the charm of northern Italy, offering natural beauty, historical depth, and a welcoming atmosphere. Its lakeside location, cultural traditions, and culinary heritage create a distinctive character that appeals to travellers seeking both relaxation and enrichment. With its serene environment and scenic surroundings, Intra invites visitors to experience a peaceful yet engaging corner of Italy where history and nature coexist harmoniously.
Worth a Visit
The Basilica di San Vittore, located in the historic centre of Verbania Intra, is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. Dedicated to Saint Victor of Milan, a Christian martyr and soldier, the basilica embodies centuries of faith and artistry, standing as a focal point for the community’s spiritual and civic identity. Its prominent position in the heart of Intra, surrounded by narrow streets, lively squares, and the rhythms of daily life, makes it both a sacred space and a symbol of the town’s heritage. The origins of the basilica trace back to medieval times, when a first church dedicated to San Vittore already existed on this site.
The Piazza Don Minzoni in Intra, one of the principal districts of Verbania on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, is a vibrant square that lies at the heart of the town’s daily and cultural life. It is both a physical and symbolic centre, a place where history, architecture, and community spirit converge. The square takes its name from Don Giovanni Minzoni, a Catholic priest remembered for his social engagement and moral integrity in early 20th-century Italy, making the piazza not only a civic hub but also a site of memory and shared values. Intra has long been known as a bustling lakeside town, shaped by commerce, trade, and religious tradition. Piazza Don Minzoni developed in this context as one of its most important open spaces, serving historically as a gathering point for markets, festivities, and public ceremonies.
The Corso Goffredo Mameli in Intra, one of the main districts of Verbania on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, is among the most characteristic and vibrant streets of the town. Stretching through the historic centre, it combines the charm of a traditional lakeside promenade with the atmosphere of a lively commercial street, making it a focal point for both residents and visitors. Named after Goffredo Mameli, the 19th-century poet and patriot who authored the Italian national anthem, the corso reflects a spirit of national pride while serving as a showcase of Intra’s history, architecture, and community life. Historically, Intra was an important centre of trade and craftsmanship, and Corso Mameli developed as one of the principal arteries linking the town’s port with its civic and commercial spaces.
Photo Gallery of Walk – Via Antonio Rosmini to Corso Goffredo Mameli
Approximately 2.33 km – 1.45 miles
The walk starts in Via Antonio Rosmini – Piazza Giovanni Fasana – Piazza S. Vittore – Basilica di S. Vittore Intra, Piazza S. Vittore – Piazza S. Vittore – Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza Don Giovanni Minzoni – Piazza Giacomo Matteotti – Piazza Castello – Corso Goffredo Mameli – Piazzale Flaim Mario – Corso Goffredo Mameli – Piazza Daniele Ranzoni – Corso Goffredo Mameli – Piazza S. Rocco – Corso Goffredo Mameli
COPYRIGHT © 2018-2026 ITALY IN PHOTOS - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED