Guide · Lake Bracciano
Things to Do at Lake Bracciano
The guide from Marco and Sofia, who live here all year round.
In short
Lake Bracciano in two lines
Lake Bracciano is a volcanic lake of about 57 km² located 30 minutes from Rome. It is one of the cleanest lakes in Europe (it's part of Rome's drinking-water reserve) and is home to three historic villages: Bracciano, Trevignano Romano and Anguillara Sabazia. Highlights include the Odescalchi Castle, walks through the medieval villages, swimming on the lake's beaches, water sports (kayak, SUP, sailing), and dinners featuring lake fish. The lake is reachable by car or via the FL3 Rome–Viterbo train line.
The activities
8 things to do at Lake Bracciano
1. Odescalchi Castle in Bracciano
One of the best-preserved Renaissance castles in Italy. Tickets €12, guided tour recommended. From Trevignano it's 15 minutes by car (11.8 km).
2. The village of Trevignano Romano
Our village. Piazza del Comune, the Clock Tower, alleys descending to the lake. You can walk it in 30 minutes, but it's worth stopping for a coffee in the square.
3. Swim in the lake
The best beaches are at Vigna di Valle, Lido di Bracciano and the swimmable section of Trevignano. Crystal-clean water, sandy bottom. Season: May–September.
4. Kayak, SUP and sailing
Combustion engines are banned on the lake: it's a paradise for quiet water sports. Kayak and SUP rentals available in both Trevignano and Bracciano from about €15/hour.
5. Lake fish
Whitefish, perch and pike are unmissable specialities. Our favourite restaurants are in the dedicated guide.
6. Etruscan Museum in Trevignano
Small but surprising. Tombs, vases and Etruscan artefacts found in the area. Free entry, perfect for a rainy afternoon.
7. Around the lake
By car, 35 km (an hour with stops). On an electric bike it's a half-day excursion. The most beautiful stretch is between Trevignano and Anguillara.
8. Sunset aperitivo
Lake Bracciano offers postcard sunsets. The best spots are the Trevignano lakefront (Bar La Vela) and the square in Anguillara.
Practical info
How to get there and where to sleep
How to get there
- From Rome by car: 30–40 minutes via the SS2 Cassia or SS493 Braccianese.
- By train: FL3 Rome Ostiense–Viterbo line, stops at Bracciano and Anguillara. From Trevignano there is a connecting bus.
- From Fiumicino airport: about 50 minutes by car.
Where to sleep
We recommend sleeping inside one of the villages, not in the outskirts. La Casetta del Borgo is our studio in the historic centre of Trevignano, 50 metres from the lake, from €37/night. 4.87★ on Airbnb with 180+ reviews.
When to go
The ideal season is from May to October. July and August are the busiest but liveliest months. For tranquillity, June and September are perfect. Winter has its own charm: long sunsets, empty villages, dinners by the fire.
Want to experience the lake from inside?
La Casetta del Borgo is in the heart of Trevignano, a one-minute walk from the lake.
Book on Airbnb