Tour the three gems of the Borromean Islands with a private guide

Lake Maggiore , Italy

Tour the three gems of the Borromean Islands with a private guide

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(9 reviews)

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About this experience

Discovering a treasure in lake Maggiore: the three beautiful Borromean islands with their stunning palaces and gardens with a qualied local guide who will take you on a special tour! Step back in time: paintings, tapestries, Murano glass chandeliers, portraits, period furniture, beatifully maintained gardens will surprise you on these fabulous islands: isola Bella and isola Madre.Your guide will meet you at the pier in Stresa to take a boat and reach isola Madre, a little paradise on earth. Walking in the peaceful English-style garden you will admire exotic plants and flowers in a very special setting. The villa on this island is part of the guided tour and offers nice rooms in a country-style building dating back to the 16th century. The tour will continue to isola Bella where you will be able to enjoy some free time for lunch before visiting another extraordinary palace, opulent and impressive, that will surprise you with its beautiful collections and the talianate gardens.

Available options

1 to 5 passengers

What's included

Qualified local tour guide

Personal tour

Detailed itinerary

You will enjoy a guided stroll in a beautiful botanical garden with exotic flowers and plants and a guided visit to a villa dating back to the 16th century

On this island you will visit the amazing Borromeo palace and the terraced gardens in Italian style with your guide

If you decide to upgrade and buy the upgrade version of the this tour, a stop at Fishermen's island ( isola Pescatori) will be added. You will be able to enjoy approx. 1 hour and 20 minutes free time on this island to enjoy a meal or just stroll around

What's not included

Admission tickets are not included

Private boat transfers

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for travellers with walking difficulties

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.