Arona City Guide

Expect traditional Piedmontese and Lombard cuisine, including fresh lake fish, risotto, polenta, and local cheeses. Italian cuisine dominates, but some pizzerias and few restaurants offer other European or Asian options.

Arona has a modest nightlife scene, primarily centered around bars and pubs along the lakefront that offer drinks and sometimes live music. It's more relaxed than a bustling city.

Strong traditional Italian coffee culture, with a focus on espresso bars. Third-wave coffee shops are less common.

Tipping is not ingrained in Italian culture. A service charge may be included in bills. Otherwise, rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is appreciated for good service.

SIM cards can be purchased at official stores of mobile providers (e.g., TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad) or at electronics stores.

Streets and public areas are kept clean, with regular waste collection and recycling systems in place.

Arona does not have a strong 24/7 ecosystem. Limited late-night services but emergency services are available at the local hospital.

Major supermarkets offer a decent range of international products, but specialized items might be limited. Supermarkets like Carrefour Express, Conad, and Tigros are present.

Card payments are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, local markets, or very small establishments.

ATMs are readily available in the town center and near banks. Common fees may apply depending on your bank; it's best to check with your home bank regarding international withdrawal fees.

Arona primarily has local Italian public and private schools. There are no prominent international schools directly in Arona.

Arona does not have a prominent digital nomad community, with limited coworking spaces and networking opportunities.

The Lungolago and Rocca Borromea of Arona are beautiful parks providing extensive green space and walking paths.

The Lungolago is popular for running, offering flat scenic routes along the lake. Generally safe, especially during daylight hours.

Arona has several gyms and sports clubs, making it easy for fitness enthusiasts to find a place to work out.

Tennis courts are available at local sports clubs. Booking and equipment rental should be checked directly with the clubs.

Padel courts are becoming more common in Italy, but specific availability in Arona is not confirmed.

There are a few local yoga studios or fitness centers that offer yoga classes. Drop-in options may be available.

Some local gyms or sports centers may offer martial arts classes, like Judo, Karate, or Taekwondo.

Skiing is accessible with several resorts in the Piedmont and Aosta Valley regions being a reasonable drive away.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on Lake Maggiore with rental availability along the lakefront.

Surfing is not feasible on Lake Maggiore due to the lack of ocean waves.

Diving and snorkeling are possible in Lake Maggiore, with several dive sites including wrecks and natural formations.

The local hospital is Ospedale Sant'Antonio Abate. Private clinics might offer English-speaking doctors. Italy has a good public healthcare system, but private options offer quicker care.

Tap water in Arona, like most of Italy, is generally safe to drink unless it is explicitly communicated otherwise.

Several public playgrounds are available, particularly along the lakeside promenade. Many cafés and restaurants are generally welcoming to families.

Arona may be more traditional, but overt discrimination is rare. Italy is generally accepting with legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Italy is generally pet-friendly, and Arona follows suit with many accommodations and restaurants allowing pets. Veterinary clinics and pet supply stores are available.