Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore's Borromeo Islands
Active
3h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Hello, I'm Micaela Lucini, an expert local guide in Stresa. If you wish a tailor made tour, with different timings and options, please get in touch with me. This is a 3-hour guided tour of lake Maggiore's islands using private charter boat for our transfers to explore beautiful isola Bella, the most famous of the Borromeo islands, and Fishermen's island accompanied by a personal English-speaking tour guide. Discover an incredible island - isola Bella - where art, history, architecture, exotic and mediterranean species make this place at the foot of the Alps something unique in the world. Stroll through the quaint village on isola Pescatori to discover the old island's activities. Enjoy a private water tour around isola Madre to admire it from the lake or make the most of your trip and include also a stop and guided visit to isola Madre to explore its lovely botanical gardens with orange trees, agaves, palms and the island's 16th-century villa which houses a puppet theatre collection.
Available options
From Stresa 2 islands 3 hours
From Laveno or Intra 3 islands
From Laveno or Intra 2 islands
From Pallanza 3 islands
From Stresa 3 islands 5 hours
From Pallanza 2 islands
What's included
Professional local guide
Private tour
Private boat transfers as described
Detailed itinerary
1
You will visit the 16th-century villa on isola Madre if you choose the 3 islands'option. Otherwise you will see isola Madre from the boat if you book the 3-hour tour for 2 islands
2
You will stroll through the enchanting Italianate gardens on isola Bella and will be guided through the opulent rooms in the 17th-century Borromeo palace
3
You will enjoy the quaint village on Fishermen's island
4
You will see isola Madre from the boat if you book the shorter 3-hour tour. Should you decide for the upgrade of the tour, 5 / 6 hours, a stop and a guided visit to the botanical gardens and the villa on isola Madre is included
What's not included
Borromeo Palace (for the 2 islands)
Borromeo Palace (for the 3 islands)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
34 reviews
5★
33
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please get in touch with Micaela for any doubt, if you have special needs or should you wish to customize the length or itinerary of your tour
Longer tour ( 5 hours) is not recommended if visitors have walking problems. Longer tour is not recommended for small children
Meeting point
Pick up in Baveno is at the main ferry port in piazza IV novembre.
Pick up at hotel Splendid's private pier is possible with a supplement.
About Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is a picturesque lake in northern Italy, known for its stunning landscapes, elegant villas, and lush botanical gardens. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and relaxation, offering a blend of Italian and Swiss influences.
Top Attractions
Isola Bella
A stunning island with a historic palace and beautifully landscaped gardens, known for its unique shape and elegant architecture.
Historical
2-3 hours
€18-€22
Isola dei Pescatori
A charming fishing island with colorful houses, narrow streets, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (ferry costs apply)
Villa Taranto
A beautiful botanical garden with a vast collection of plants from around the world, offering stunning views of the lake.
Nature
2-3 hours
€12
Alpino-Caprone Cable Car
A scenic cable car ride up to the summit of Monte San Salvatore, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Adventure
2-3 hours
€15-€20 round trip
Santa Caterina del Sasso
A historic hermitage built into the cliffs above the lake, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and religious history.
Historical
1-2 hours
€5
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al pesce persico
A creamy risotto made with local perch, a specialty of the lake region.
Main Course
Contains fish
Missoltino
Dried and salted fish, typically served with polenta, a traditional dish from the region.
Main Course
Contains fish
Panettone
A sweet, fluffy bread with candied fruit and raisins, originally from Milan but popular throughout the region.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy
Vin Brulé
A warm, spiced wine, perfect for cold winter evenings.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Skiing
Sailing
Water skiing
Sunbathing
Swimming
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and plenty of outdoor activities. It's ideal for swimming, boating, and exploring the lake's attractions.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Maggiore is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxis and restaurants
Getting there
By air
- Malpensa International Airport • 45 km from Arona (northern shore)
- Aeroporto di Milano Linate • 80 km from Arona
By train
Arona Station, Laveno-Mombello Station
By bus
Arona, Laveno-Mombello
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are a convenient way to get around, with frequent services and affordable fares.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Stresa
Arona
Laveno-Mombello
Pallanza
Day trips
Locarno
50 km • Full day
A charming Swiss town on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, known for its historic center, beautiful gardens, and the famous Locarno Film Festival.
Macugnaga
60 km • Full day
A picturesque mountain village in the Val d'Ossola, known for its stunning views of the Monte Rosa massif and excellent hiking and skiing opportunities.
Cannobio
30 km • Half day
A charming town on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, known for its historic center, beautiful churches, and the famous Sunday market.
Festivals
Lago Maggiore Music Festival • July
Festa di San Carlo Borromeo • November 4
Cannobio Sunday Market • Every Sunday
Pro tips
- Visit the Borromean Islands early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take a boat tour to see the lake from a different perspective
- Try the local specialties, such as risotto al pesce persico and missoltino
- Explore the lesser-known towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and pleasant weather
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
