Regina Palace Hotel
A historic Belle Époque palace hotel on Lake Maggiore, offering ornate rooms, elegant dining, and stunning lake views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Regina Palace Hotel
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Belle Époque palace hotel on Lake Maggiore, offering ornate rooms, elegant dining, and stunning lake views.
"Step back in time to an era of class and elegance at this magnificent lakeside hotel."
🎯 Book Renovated Rooms
Prioritize newly renovated rooms for a modern and comfortable stay. Older rooms can be disappointing.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be aware that parking is an additional charge, even for hotel guests.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Belle Époque Elegance
Throughout the hotel
Step back in time in this historic palace hotel, adorned with ornate decor, chandeliers, and stained glass.
Lake Maggiore Views
Select rooms and common areas
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Lake Maggiore from your room or while strolling the hotel's grounds.
Grotto Swimming Pool
Indoor pool area
Experience a unique shower in a rock crevice, perfect for a whimsical dip, even for mermaids!
Miniature Tea Cup Exhibition
Hotel exhibition space
Discover a charming collection of miniature school tea and coffee cups, a delightful surprise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Room Renovations Matter
Value for Money Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Renovated Rooms
Prioritize newly renovated rooms for a modern and comfortable stay. Older rooms can be disappointing.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be aware that parking is an additional charge, even for hotel guests.
🏊♀️ Pool Access
Enjoy both the outdoor and indoor pools, with the indoor spa area being quieter after 5 PM.
☕️ Charming Tea Cup Exhibit
Don't miss the delightful exhibition of miniature tea and coffee cups.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Renovated Rooms
Prioritize newly renovated rooms for a modern and comfortable stay. Older rooms can be disappointing.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be aware that parking is an additional charge, even for hotel guests.
🏊♀️ Pool Access
Enjoy both the outdoor and indoor pools, with the indoor spa area being quieter after 5 PM.
☕️ Charming Tea Cup Exhibit
Don't miss the delightful exhibition of miniature tea and coffee cups.
📍 Central Stresa Location
The hotel's prime location makes exploring Stresa and nearby attractions very convenient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Regina Palace Hotel offers a historic and elegant experience with a prime location on Lake Maggiore. While many praise its Belle Époque charm, stunning views, and good amenities like pools, some guests find the value for money questionable due to outdated rooms and inconsistent service. Renovated rooms are highly recommended for a more modern stay.
"We spent a few days at this hotel and unfortunately were not convinced in the end. I’ll start with the negative points first:
1. We booked an economy room for over €200 per night. In the room description it says that "some of these rooms" have a velux window. Unfortunately, we ended up with exactly such a room. The room was very small and there was no view over the courtyard at all. On top of that, the room was quite outdated (scratched walls, barely any water coming from the shower, cobwebs on the ceiling, etc.). Now, I can’t really complain about having a velux window since it was in the description. However, after a couple of days I went to reception and asked if we could switch to another room for the remaining nights (an economy room with garden view, as described on the hotel’s website). I was told that such a room doesn’t exist, and that economy always means velux window. The description clearly says “some of the rooms”—so either the room description is clearly wrong and misleading, or they just didn’t want to give me a better room. I found this very disappointing. For the price, definitely not recommendable.
2. Breakfast was good, but I really enjoy scrambled eggs, and these were made from powder, not from fresh eggs. That was a bit surprising.
3. The parking garage is sufficient, but considering the room rates and the type of guests (very expensive cars), it’s surprising that there is no surveillance.
Now for the positive points:
1. The hotel is very centrally located. You can easily reach Stresa on foot, several sights are directly accessible by boat, and Milan can be reached by train in just an hour.
2. Breakfast has a very wide selection.
3. The outdoor pool and indoor facilities are very well done.
Overall, I would rate the hotel as “satisfactory.” The biggest downside for us was the room, which was really poor value for such a high price. A good location alone cannot justify these rates."
Runo Die
"We stayed for 3 nights in one of the suites with a beautiful view towards lago maggiore to get engaged and afterwards celebrate our engagement and we were excepting a beautiful weekend.
Unfortunately, that was not the case.
The services and the series of unpleasant situations left us with a bitter taste. Even the basics that you pay for,were missing.
This might be a 4-star hotel on paper, but it truly feels like it deserves none. We’ve stayed in lower-rated places where respect, service, and care were much higher — and that says a lot.
• Fridge fee: €5/day just to use the minibar fridge for our own two bottles. After signing the agreement for the full stay, we were still asked if we wanted a minibar refill. Communication between staff was almost non-existent.
• Parking fee: €20/day, even if you’re a guest of the hotel. (Not even a discount for hotel guests)
• Restaurant service: practically nonexistent. Our table (in the middle of the room) was ignored while the waiter focused on the nearby tables, even though there were only 4 occupied tables in total. Two glasses of wine were forgotten. The tiramisu was a disappointment — just one soaked biscuit.
The food was good, but expected more from an a la carte restaurant.
• Room cleanliness: far below expectations. We found packaging on the floor, dust and lint, dirty mirrors, and even mold in the bathroom. For a suite, this was shocking.
• Breakfast: very limited, with hardly any variety (mostly just tomatoes as “vegetables”). Breakfast ends at 10:00, and even though people were still eating, everything was cleared away immediately — you couldn’t even get water.
• Other issues: uncomfortable pillows, rude staff, and a general lack of some guests.
I don’t know if that was because of the appearance, the fact that we were young or they are simply rude because that’s how they feel.
On the positive side, the room itself was aesthetically beautiful, we had an amazing view over Lake Maggiore, the pool was large and pleasant, and the music around it was relaxing. The cappuccino is very tasty.
Overall, though, this was one of the most disappointing hotel experiences we’ve had. Definitely not worth the price, especially for such a special occasion.
I am actually sorry that the hotel (staff and everything included) are not inclined to treat people equally and with respect.
Will not be staying here again, and I am not recommending this hotel to anyone."
Andrea Giurgiu
"Regina palace is one of the best hotels we have had stayed over the years we visited Italy. The staff at the reception and the breakfast were professional and attentive. The rooms and bathrooms are spacious, with lots of natural light. For us, we had the interior garden and pool view, pleasant to see the mountains when open the windows. Gorgeous belle-époque bar and game room, with classical music playing. The spa on the ground floor is a treat, modern and clean. The pool is open during long hours.
We will definitely come back!"
Claire CC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Stresa by train from Milan in about an hour, making the Regina Palace Hotel easily accessible for day trips or longer stays.
Yes, there is a parking garage available, but it comes with a daily fee of €20, even for hotel guests.
The hotel is located on the shore of Lake Maggiore, and many sights are directly accessible by boat, making it a convenient base for exploring the lake.
Arriving by train is a popular and convenient option, with direct connections from major cities like Milan. The hotel is then a short walk or taxi ride away.
While the hotel has historic charm, accessibility for those with mobility issues might vary. It's advisable to contact the hotel directly to inquire about specific needs and available facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is recommended to book your room in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred room type and dates.
Standard check-in and check-out times apply, typically in the afternoon for check-in and late morning for check-out. It's best to confirm these directly with the hotel.
The hotel occasionally offers packages, especially for special occasions. Keep an eye on their website or inquire directly for any current promotions.
There is no entrance fee to enter the hotel premises or its public areas. However, accommodation and services are, of course, charged.
Typically, access to the pool and spa facilities is reserved for hotel guests. Day passes might be available in some cases, but it's best to inquire with the hotel directly.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Many guests recommend booking a newly renovated room for a more modern experience. Rooms with lake views are also highly sought after.
The hotel features two elegant restaurants and a lavish bar, offering a range of culinary experiences.
While the hotel offers a luxurious experience, some amenities like the grotto pool might be more appealing to adults. Families might find it a grand experience, but it's worth checking for specific family-friendly activities.
The hotel exudes Belle Époque elegance and classic charm, offering a step back in time with its historic architecture and decor.
Yes, the hotel hosts a charming exhibition of miniature tea and coffee cups and features a unique grotto swimming pool with a 'rain shower' feature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Breakfast offers a wide selection, though some guests noted that scrambled eggs were made from powder and variety could be limited, with quick clearing of items.
While specific dietary options aren't detailed in reviews, the hotel's elegant restaurants likely offer a range of dishes. It's best to inquire with the restaurant staff about vegetarian or vegan choices.
Food quality is generally considered good, though some guests found specific dishes like tiramisu disappointing or expected more from the a la carte menu.
Room service details are not explicitly mentioned in reviews, but given the hotel's offerings, it's likely available. Inquire directly with the hotel for their room service menu and hours.
The hotel features a lavish bar, described as a gorgeous Belle Époque bar, perfect for enjoying a drink in a classic setting.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the hotel's ornate interiors, chandeliers, stained glass, and the picturesque Lake Maggiore views. The grotto pool also offers unique photo opportunities.
Photography is generally permitted in public areas for personal use. However, for professional shoots or commercial purposes, you may need to seek permission from the hotel management.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the hotel and the lake. Interior shots are great throughout the day, especially with the natural light from the windows.
The hotel's Art Nouveau style, stained glass ceilings, grand chandeliers, and the Belle Époque bar are particularly photogenic.
Absolutely! Many rooms and common areas offer direct views of Lake Maggiore, providing excellent opportunities for scenic photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a renovated room for greater comfort and space. While dining options are elegant, inquire about child-friendly menu items or meal arrangements. The central location also makes it easy to explore Stresa and take boat trips on Lake Maggiore, offering external family-friendly activities.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with lake views, followed by a relaxing afternoon by the pool. The hotel's elegant restaurants and bar provide perfect settings for romantic dinners and evening cocktails. Consider booking a lake-view room or suite to maximize the romantic experience.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
The hotel's history is rich, having hosted notable figures, adding to its allure. Exploring the hotel itself is like visiting a living museum. Take your time to appreciate the architectural details and the sense of timeless elegance that permeates the property.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of Regina Palace
This historic ambiance is a significant draw for visitors seeking a unique and luxurious experience. The hotel's commitment to preserving its heritage while offering modern comforts creates a captivating atmosphere. From the grand lobby to the meticulously decorated rooms, every corner tells a story of a bygone era of class and elegance.
For those who appreciate history and architectural beauty, the Regina Palace Hotel provides an immersive experience. It’s not just a place to stay, but a destination that allows you to feel the history and live the elegance of its past.
Navigating Room Options and Value
Despite the higher price point, some guests have found the value for money in the older rooms to be poor, citing issues like low water pressure in showers, scratched walls, and cobwebs. While the description might mention that 'some' rooms have certain features, it's essential to clarify what you are booking to avoid disappointment.
For a truly comfortable and modern experience that aligns with the hotel's luxury reputation, prioritize booking a renovated room. This will likely ensure a more pleasant stay and better value for your investment.
Culinary Delights and Dining Experiences
While the food is generally considered good, some reviews suggest that certain dishes might not meet the highest expectations, with one guest finding the tiramisu disappointing. Breakfast, though offering a wide selection, has also received mixed feedback, with some noting the use of powdered eggs and a tendency for items to be cleared away quickly.
For those seeking a more personalized dining experience or specific dietary needs, it is always recommended to inquire directly with the restaurant staff. This will help ensure your culinary expectations are met during your stay.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit