Unique Lake Maggiore Day Trip from Milan
Active
7h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore scenic Lake Maggiore in Italy's beautiful Lake District on a day trip from Milan. The fashionable lakeside town of Stresa is an approximate 1.5-hour drive from Milan and is surrounded by majestic snowcapped mountains. After spending some free time in Stresa, shopping or simply relaxing and enjoying the stunning scenery, you'll take a two-hour panoramic boat cruise on Lake Maggiore, visiting the Borromean Islands – Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella.
Available options
Departure from Centrale
Tour With Hotel Pick Up
Tour in English (monolingual): Lake Maggiore Day Trip from Milan with English guide with hotel pick up<br/>Pickup included
Departure from Cairoli
Tour in English (monolingual): Lake Maggiore Day Trip from Milan with English guide
What's included
Professional guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Boat cruise
Detailed itinerary
1
On the borders of Piedmont, Lombardy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore, also known as Verbano is the second largest Italian lake. Your visit will start with a lake cruise.
On board you will enjoy the view of exquisite lakeside villas and lush gardens surrounded by crystal blue waters set amidst the beauty of snow capped alps.
2
First, we pass the exotic Isola Madre, home to a 20 acre park that is considered one of the most impressive in Italy, before heading back in time to the simple life of Isola dei Pescatori where you will have free time to explore, shop or enjoy a light lunch.
3
Stop 3
The next stop will be the luxurious Isola Bella with the elaborate gardens of the Borromean Palace surrounded by boutiques and cafés housed in grand historic buildings ( entrance to Palazzo Borromeo included).
Finally, you will re-join the boat and cruise back to Stresa where you can have free time to explore this quiet and fascinating little town, try some local food or indulge in some shopping before returning to Milan.
4
our tour will take you from Milan to picturesque Stresa, on the western shores of Lake Maggiore. Stresa is a lovely town with beautiful villas and gardens, some of which are open to the public. With a comfortable climate, Stresa offers stunning lake views, and you can also take the cable car up to Monte Mottarone for views of the Alps and the lakes.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks, unless specified
Borromeo Palace
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
93 reviews
5★
59
4★
23
3★
7
2★
1
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
8 reviews
5★
5
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please be ready at the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure of the tour.
Important notes
Please be ready at the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure.
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
Instant confirmation
