A Unique Lake Iseo Summer Music Festival Under the Stars
If you’re visiting Bergamo in summer 2025, one event you won’t want to miss is Onde Musicali sul Lago d’Iseo—a spectacular music festival that brings free live concerts to some of the lake’s most stunning natural and historic settings.
From late May to early September, this celebrated festival transforms the towns and villages of Lake Iseo into open-air stages, offering a rich and varied program of classical music, jazz, world music, and contemporary performances. Musicians from Italy and abroad perform in unique venues—riverside promenades, medieval churches, castle courtyards, and lakeside parks—all with breathtaking backdrops.
Where the Music Meets the Landscape
What sets Onde Musicali apart from other Italian summer festivals is its close relationship with the landscape. Some of the most unforgettable concerts take place in:
- Monte Isola, the largest inhabited lake island in Europe, where concerts may be held in intimate churches or scenic panoramic points like the Sanctuary of Madonna della Ceriola, or the nearby Islet of Loreto.
- Lovere, a charming lakeside village known for its art heritage and romantic views, often hosts music evenings in its historic squares and along the waterfront. The loverese Accademia Tadini plays a vital role in organizing the festival.
- Sarnico, at the southern tip of the lake, offers lively concerts on its elegant lakefront, drawing locals and visitors alike.
- Riva di Solto, nestled beneath dramatic cliffs, provides an atmospheric, almost mystical setting for acoustic and small ensemble performances.
- Iseo, the cultural and logistical heart of the lake, stages key events in its historic piazzas, porticoed courtyards, and lakeside terraces.
Other participating towns include Sulzano, Paratico, Tavernola, Pisogne, and Marone, each contributing its own flavor to the event.
Music Under the Open Sky – Free and Accessible
The 2025 edition of Onde Musicali promises an even richer lineup than previous years, with a mix of emerging talents, renowned soloists, and innovative ensembles. The performances are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all audiences.
Almost all concerts are free, and no reservation is typically required unless otherwise specified. To see the full schedule and locations, check the image below featuring the complete calendar of events.
