Lake Maggiore , Italy

Lake Maggiore Boat Tour

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(4 reviews)

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About this experience

Experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore on a private boat tour that blends history, culture, and relaxation. Cruise past Isola Madre, admiring its lush botanical gardens and the elegant Palazzo Borromeo from the water. Continue to the breathtaking Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso, a monastery perched on a cliff, perfect for stunning photos.

Your first stop is Isola Pescatori, a charming fishing village with narrow streets, quaint shops, and lakeside cafés. Take a leisurely stroll, browse for handmade souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee while soaking in the authentic atmosphere.

Afterward, dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim in one of the lake’s best spots.

Finally, visit Isola Bella, where you can explore the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo and its spectacular gardens at your own pace. Choose to stay on the island and return by ferry or enjoy a quick visit before we bring you back to Stresa by boat, completing a memorable day on the lake.

Available options

Lake Maggiore Boat Tour

What's included

Bottled water

Fuel

Prosecco

Detailed itinerary

Disembark at Isola Bella and enjoy a charming stroll through its picturesque streets, lined with artisan shops and lakeside cafés. You can choose to visit the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo with its grand halls and grottoes, or simply wander the stunning Italian-style gardens, home to elegant fountains, statues, and white peacocks. Take your time exploring, snap some beautiful photos, enjoy a coffee or gelato by the water, and then hop back on board for the next leg of your journey.

Stroll through the charming fishing village, explore its narrow streets lined with local shops and traditional houses, and visit the small church of San Vittore. Snap photos of the picturesque waterfront, browse for handmade souvenirs, or enjoy a quick coffee or gelato at a lakeside café before heading back to your boat. For a focused experience, take a scenic walk or relax with a drink by the water.

Admire Isola Madre from the water, taking in the beauty of its lush botanical gardens and the elegant Palazzo Borromeo. Snap photos of the island’s serene landscape, historic architecture, and vibrant greenery as you cruise past, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before continuing your journey.

Admire the stunning Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso from the water, with its dramatic position clinging to the cliffside. Take in the beauty of its historic architecture and scenic surroundings, capturing photos of the monastery and the lake before continuing your journey.

What's not included

Admission fee

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The boat driver meets them at the floating pontoon on the lake.

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.