The importance of lake communications was a matter of concern to local governments as early as the 19th century, following the steamboat revolution. In 1829, the Privileged Steam Navigation Company was founded in Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia, three years after the launch of the Verbano in Locarno: the first steamship on Lake Maggiore.
Adjacent to the Old Port, the Luino pier is the historic port of call on Lake Maggiore, connecting the city to the Piedmontese shore and Switzerland via Navigazione Laghi ferries and hydrofoils. The structure underwent numerous modifications and expansions over time. Renovation works completed in 2014 restored its early 20th-century appearance, distinguished by barrel vaults and a panoramic terrace.
Opposite the pier lies Piazza Libertà, the former site of the weekly market. Overlooking the square are the grand historic hotels: the Ancora, the Bellevue, and the Hotel Della Posta. Since 2000, Piazza Libertà has undergone several redevelopment projects aimed at making it a more welcoming space for residents and tourists.