LAKE MAGGIORE FROM Milan with its BORROMEO ISLANDS -private tour

Milan , Italy

LAKE MAGGIORE FROM Milan with its BORROMEO ISLANDS -private tour

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About this experience

Lake Maggiore is one of the 'Lombardy lakes' of northern Italy and the second largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda. Formed from a glacier, the lake is surrounded by hills in the south and mountains to the north. It's a long and narrow lake.
Stresa is an excellent base to discover Lake Maggiore. There is so much to see and do from palaces, villas and gardens to markets, local festivals and concerts. There are walks for every ability and excursions that depart from Stresa to see the best of the Italian Lake District. You will reach the Borromean Islands by boat.
Your guide will introduce you to the sumptuous Baroque palace and terraced gardens of Isola Bella, the charming villas, gardens and theatres on Isola Madre, and the traditional fishing village of Isola Pescatori. Isola Bella will surprise you with its sumptuous baroque palace and its terraced Italian-style gardens.

Available options

LAKE MAGGIORE TOUR FROM Milan with its BORROMEOS ISLANDS

What's included

Boat transfers

Train Tickets from Milan to Stresa and return

Entrance tickets Palazzo Borromeo

Guide at disposal Full day

Detailed itinerary

Spend a day at the stunning Lake Maggiore with this day trip from Milan. At a short distance from Milan, the Borromeo's Islands are the highlight of a stay at Lake Maggiore or you can reach the lake by train from Milan in just one hour. Visit Stresa, a charming village caught between the mountains and the lake with its beautiful XIX century mansions and gardens. First settled over a millennia ago, the town of Stresa was heavily influenced by Milan's aristocratic Borromeo family, who commissioned the beautiful 15th - 17th century palaces and villas for which Stresa and the neighboring islands are renowned.

From Stresa you will reach the Borromean Islands by boat. Your guide will introduce you to the sumptuous Isola Bella, the charming villas, gardens and theatres on Isola Madre, and the traditional fishing village of Isola Pescatori. Isola Bella will surprise you with its sumptuous baroque palace and its terraced Italian-style gardens. It is the most well known of the Borromean Islands. Lying offshore from Stresa it is just a 10 minute boat ride away. Visit the opulent palace and monumental gardens.
On Isola Madre the atmosphere is more authentic, with a wonderful botanical garden, it is home to a traditional Italian Villa decorated with frescoes and ornate furniture and the rambling gardens are a welcome retreat in the summer;

Isola Pescatori is the more lively, a quaint fishing village located on an Island just 10 minutes boat ride from Stresa. An ideal place to visit for a leisurely lunch and after free time your guide will escort back to Stresa in order to get the train to Milan.

What's not included

tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meeting point with your Guide in front of Five Guys inside the Central Station ( Milano Stazione Centrale) 1° floor at the train platform level.

About Milan

Milan, the vibrant capital of Lombardy, is a city where ancient history meets modern luxury. Known for its fashion, art, and design, Milan is a dynamic metropolis that offers a rich cultural experience and a thriving culinary scene.

Top Attractions

Duomo di Milano

The Milan Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the third-largest church in the world. It took nearly six centuries to complete and is a symbol of the city.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours €10-€15

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This historic shopping gallery is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful. It features luxury boutiques, cafes, and the famous mosaic floor of the bull.

Architecture/Shopping 1 hour Free to enter, shopping varies

Santa Maria delle Grazie

This church and convent house Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, The Last Supper. The painting is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and a must-see for art lovers.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €10-€15 (advance booking required)

Castello Sforzesco

This medieval castle was built by the Duke of Milan and later renovated by Ludovico Sforza. It houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €5-€10

Teatro alla Scala

One of the world's most famous opera houses, Teatro alla Scala is a symbol of Milan's rich musical heritage. Guided tours are available to explore the historic theater and museum.

Cultural/Entertainment 1 hour €10-€15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto alla Milanese

A creamy saffron risotto, a staple of Milanese cuisine.

Main Course Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.

Ossobuco

Braised veal shanks, traditionally served with gremolata.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.

Panzerotti

Fried dough pockets filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and other ingredients.

Snack Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Cotoletta alla Milanese

A breaded and fried veal cutlet, similar to schnitzel.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Alps Cycling along the Navigli canals Aperitivo in Navigli Shopping in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Visiting museums and historic sites Attending opera or ballet performances Boat tours on Lake Como Swimming in Lake Como

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Milan is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Milan is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious with your belongings and stay alert.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km from city center
Milano Linate Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Milano Centrale, Milano Rogoredo

By bus

Lampugnano Bus Station, San Donato Milanese

Getting around

Public transport

The Milano Metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, M5) and is efficient and easy to use. It is the quickest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Brera Navigli Quartiere della Moda Isola

Day trips

Lake Como

50 km • Full day

Lake Como is a stunning alpine lake known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Bergamo

50 km • Half day

Bergamo is a charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and a rich history. It offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and local cuisine.

Verona

150 km • Full day

Verona is a romantic city known for its association with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It offers a mix of historic sites, romantic landmarks, and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Milan Fashion Week • February and September Milan Design Week • April Milan Film Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues
Explore the Navigli district in the evening for a vibrant aperitivo experience
Use the ATM Milano app for real-time public transportation schedules and maps
Consider purchasing a Milan Card for discounts on attractions, transportation, and dining
Try local specialties like risotto alla Milanese and panzerotti