Discover lake Orta - Private tours from Stresa, Baveno, Verbania
Active
5h - 6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A tour to magnificent lake Orta from Stresa, Baveno or Verbania on lake Maggiore! An English-speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel and will drive you to the beautiful village of Orta San Giulio on lake Orta that you will be able to explore on your own, strolling through its narrow cobblestone alleys, century-old buildings and special atmosphere. A stop at the Unesco heritage site - the Sacro Monte, Sacred Mount - built on top of a promontory is included with your driver waiting for you while you are strolling around. You can then enjoy a snack / lunch in one of the little town's cafés and restaurants, before being pick up by your driver to go back by a different route enjoying the southern end of lake Maggiore with a stop to see the big statue of Saint Charles Borromeo from the outside, 35 metres high! A tour at your own pace to discover magica lake Orta!
Available options
From 1 to 4 passengers
From 5 to 8 passengers
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Round-trip private transfer
English-speaking driver
Fuel surcharge
Transport by private vehicle
What you'll see
You will leave Stresa, Baveno or Verbania on lake Maggiore in a private vehicle driven by a professional English-speaking driver.
Once in Orta San Giulio the first stop will be the Sacro Monte - the Sacred Mount - of Orta, built on top a hill, where your driver will stop to enable you to stroll around and discover on your own this old Unesco heritage site with painted chapels and terracotta statues dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi.
Your driver will be waiting for you while you are visiting and will then drive you to the traffic-free area in the heart of Orta San Giulio where you will be able to spend free time in the lovely medieval village. From the main square you may decide ( optional) to buy a boat ticket for the island of San Giulio. On the small but charming island, you can visit on your own the medieval frescoed church and walk along the only path existing on the island, passing old villas and an Abbey.
After your free time, between 2pm and 3 pm, the driver will be able to pick you up in the traffic-free area right in the centre of Orta San Giulio to drive you back to Stresa, Baveno or Verbania.
GOOD TO KNOW: pick up in Orta San Giulio for your return trip can be decided by you between 2pm and 3 pm.
What's not included
Optional boat ride to the island of San Giulio ( € 5 per person)
Gratuities
Lunch
Food and drinks
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
19 reviews
5★
17
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A small / moderate amount of walking is involved
Maximum 8 passengers per booking
Meeting point
Pick up at the traveler's hotel or address in Intra
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
