The three Borromean Islands with a private tour guide
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discovering the three Borromean Islands: isola Bella, Fishermen's Island and isola Madre with a tour guide.
Admiring the scenery of the lake and the beautiful gardens.
Wandering around the narrow streets of the Fisherman's Island.
Available options
The three Borromean Islands with a private tour guide
Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Private tour
Detailed itinerary
1
we will meet in Piazzale Lido Stresa at 9.30
2
During the day we will visit the Baroque palace on Isola Bella and the luxuriant Italian-style garden, which reaches a height of 37 metres and is laid out on ten terraces.
3
Then we will visit the Isola Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), or Upper Island because of its more northerly situation than the other islands in the Gulf, is the most picturesque of the Borromean Islands, as well as the only one to be permanently inhabited. Distinctive features of its ancient little village are narrow lanes with characteristic two-storey houses, with long balconies traditionally used for drying fish; the island’s inhabitants earn their living mainly by fishing and tourism.
I can suggest you a nice place for lunch to taste the lake fish.
4
Finally we will visit the Isola Madre: it is the largest and perhaps most characteristic of the three islands in the Borromean Gulf. Its palace was built in the 16th century and the garden is a paradise with tropical flowers, where peacocks and pheasants wander in freedom.
What's not included
Boat: 16,50 euro per person shared boat
Entrance fees: Isola Bella and isola Madre ticket: 37 euro per person
If you are more than 5 people, radio guides are mandatory, the price is 3 euro per person
Private boat for less than 10 people costs 250 euro, for more people you have to ask the price.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
6 reviews
5★
5
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tour Exclusions:
Isola Bella and isola Madre ticket: 37 euro per person
Public boat 16,50 euro per person or private boat 250 euro for all the group
If you are more than 5 people, radio guides are mandatory, the price is 3 euro per person
Meeting point
Piazzale Lido Stresa in front the cable car
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
