Discovering the isles of Lake Iseo
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Lake Iseo, still quite unknown to mass tourism, is characterized by amazing landscapes, art treasures and premium craftsmanships: a lot of those deal with fishing, the pillar of local economy for a long time before tourism started, such as boatbuilding and net weaving.
This private tour will allow you to experience a pleasant, exclusive cruise around the three isles of the lake, the largest of which is Montisola, the seat of the Museum of Net. In a few hours, you will enjoy wonderful views of the lakeside and become aware of the ancient, surprising tradition of those crafts.
The cruise will start and return in Sulzano, a small village which came to worldwide fame in 2016, being the core of The Floating Piers, an installation by the celebrated artist Christo.
Available options
Discovering the isles of Lake Iseo
What's included
Private taxi-boat with skipper to disposal for a cruise around the Iseo isles
Qualified private guide
Landing fee for Monte Isola and ticket for the Museum of Net
Detailed itinerary
1
The small village of Sulzano stands on the western cost of lake Iseo.
During the Roman age it was crossed by an important way, connecting Brescia to Val Camonica. During the first half of the 20th century, Sulzano was the summer residence of the Craven brothers, relatives of the British Royal Family and owners of most villas in town.
This site came to worldwide fame in 2016, when it was chosen by the international artist Christo for his installation, The Floating Piers: a net of footbridges connecting Sulzano to the isles of Monte Isola and San Paolo.
2
The Isle of Loreto rises in the middle of Lake Iseo, north of MonteIsola, and it is private property. At the end of XV century the isle was purchased by the nuns of Saint Chiara from Brescia, where they set up their nunnery. The building was though dismissed by 1580 when, during the visit of Carlo Borromeo, the presence of a hermit named Pietro is remembered. In 1910 Knight Vincenzo Richieri built a neo-gothic castle on the island. Around it a yew garden was planted, a small port and two small lighthouse towers were built.
3
The isle, also known as Montisola, is the largest lake island in Italy and in Southern Europe. It was surely inhabited since the Roman age and, later in the 11th century, a Cluny monastery was established here, just alike the nearby isle of San Paolo.
Montisola has an ancient tradition of boatbuilding and net weaving, as displayed in the local Museum of Net; the museum hosts a permanent collection of items and documents expecially related to the world of fishing, for a long time the main feature of local economy.
4
The small isle was the seat of a Cluny monastery from the 11th to the end of 18th century. It was later ruled by the noble Fenaroli family and, during World War I, bought by Beretta family, well known weapon producers of the district. In 2016, the art installation "The Floating Piers" by Christo has connected the Isle to the nearby Monte Isla and to the mainland.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Lombardy
Lombardy, located in northern Italy, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. It is home to the fashion capital of Milan, as well as the picturesque lakes of Como and Garda, making it a diverse and appealing destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Duomo di Milano
The iconic Gothic cathedral in Milan's city center, famous for its stunning façade and intricate details.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free entry, €15 for rooftop access
Lake Como
A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and charming villages, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Nature
Full day
Varies by activity
The Last Supper
Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural painting located in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Historical/Art
30-45 minutes
€12
Brescia Castle
A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Historical
2-3 hours
€5
Santa Maria delle Grazie
A historic church and convent housing Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'.
Religious
1-2 hours
€12 for 'The Last Supper' ticket
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto alla Milanese
Creamy saffron risotto, a signature dish of Milan.
Dinner
Contains dairy
Ossobuco
Braised veal shanks, often served with gremolata.
Dinner
Contains meat
Cotoletta alla Milanese
Breaded and fried veal cutlet, similar to schnitzel.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Panettone
A sweet bread loaf with raisins and candied fruit, traditionally served at Christmas.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Alps
Skiing in winter
Boating on Lake Como
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending opera performances
Swimming and water sports on the lakes
Skiing and snowboarding in the Alps
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time of year, with warm weather and numerous festivals. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
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
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lombardy is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you
Getting there
By air
- Milano Malpensa Airport • 40 km from Milan
- Milano Linate Airport • 7 km from Milan
By train
Milano Centrale, Milano Rogoredo
By bus
Milano Lampugnano, Milano Tiburtina
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and widely used, covering most tourist attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Brera
Navigli
Sforza
Day trips
Bergamo
50 km from Milan • Half day to full day
A charming city with a well-preserved medieval old town and a modern lower town.
Bergamo
50 km from Milan • Half day to full day
A charming city with a well-preserved medieval old town and a modern lower town.
Brescia
100 km from Milan • Full day
A city with a rich history, featuring Roman ruins, a medieval castle, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Festivals
Milan Fashion Week • February and September
Festa di Sant'Ambrogio • December 7
Pro tips
- Visit the rooftop of the Duomo di Milano for a breathtaking view of the city
- Explore the canals of Navigli in the evening for a romantic atmosphere
- Take a day trip to Lake Como for a relaxing escape from the city
- Try the local specialty, Risotto alla Milanese, at a traditional trattoria
- Visit the historic vineyards of Franciacorta for a wine tasting experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
