The Baveno: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Borromean Islands at one’s own pace. Priced competitively, the hop-on hop-off boat experience grants visitors access to the baroque splendor of Palazzo Borromeo and the charming alleys of Pescatori Island. With ample free time to discover each destination, this tour promises a delightful culture amidst breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, this tour provides an engaging and flexible way to experience the best of the Borromean Islands.
Key Points
- This hop-on hop-off tour explores the Borromean Islands of Bella and Pescatori, with a focus on the Baroque Palazzo Borromeo and lush Italian gardens on Bella Island.
- The tour is priced from $14.96 to $14.06 per person and includes the boat ride, access to Palazzo Borromeo, and free time to explore the islands.
- Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, and no upfront payment is required to make a reservation.
- The tour departs from Baveno and is valid for one day, with the last boarding at 11:40 AM and returns until 5 PM.
- The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and a landing fee of €0.50 per person per island is not included.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour offers visitors a chance to explore the Borromean Islands of Bella and Pescatori from the town of Baveno.
It’s a hop-on hop-off boat tour, allowing travelers to experience the islands at their own pace. Priced from $14.96 to $14.06 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with up to a 6% discount.
Visitors can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and there’s no upfront payment required – they can reserve their spot and pay later.
The tour is valid for one day, with the last boarding at 11:40 AM and daily returns until 5 PM, providing ample time to discover the highlights of each island.
Tour Details and Itinerary
Departing from Baveno, the boat trip takes visitors to the Borromean Islands of Bella and Pescatori.
The tour highlights include the Baroque Palazzo Borromeo on Bella Island and the lush Italian gardens with 10 terraces.
Travelers can also explore the charming alleys of the traditional fishing village on Pescatori Island.
The tour provides free time to explore each island at one’s own pace.
The last boarding for the tour is at 11:40 AM, and daily returns run until 5 PM, allowing ample time to fully experience the islands.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes the hop-on hop-off boat ride, allowing travelers to freely explore the islands.
Visitors can enjoy the Baroque Palazzo Borromeo on Bella Island and stroll through the lush Italian gardens with 10 terraces.
On Pescatori Island, they can wander the charming alleys of the traditional fishing village.
However, the tour excludes the landing fee of €0.50 per person per island, as well as admission to the palaces and gardens of Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
While dogs are allowed on board, they aren’t permitted in the palaces and gardens, and medium-sized dogs incur a €3 supplement.
Important Information
Travelers must meet at Piazza IV Novembre in Baveno to begin the tour.
They’ll need to bring a printed coupon, which will be replaced with a Summer Boats sailing ticket upon arrival.
To ensure a timely departure, guests should arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time to scan their QR code.
The tour service isn’t guaranteed in bad weather, but the coupon can be used on another date.
Plus, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the islands and transportation options may present accessibility challenges.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Baveno: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour has an overall rating of 5/5 based on 2 reviews.
Travelers have provided positive feedback, highlighting the convenience and experience of the tour. Comments indicate satisfaction with the overall tour experience, which includes the boat trip to the Borromean Islands, free time to explore Bella and Pescatori Islands, and the opportunity to see highlights like the Baroque Palazzo Borromeo and lush Italian gardens.
The ratings and reviews suggest this hop-on hop-off tour is an enjoyable and well-received activity for visitors to the Baveno area.
Boat Trip to Borromean Islands
The Baveno: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour offers a boat trip from Baveno to the enchanting Borromean Islands, including Bella and Pescatori.
The highlights of this excursion include:
- Exploring the Baroque Palazzo Borromeo on Bella Island.
- Strolling through the lush Italian gardens with 10 terraces.
- Discovering the charming alleys of the traditional fishing village on Pescatori Island.
- Enjoying free time to explore each island at your own pace.
The last boarding for the tour is at 11:40 AM, and daily returns are available until 5 PM, providing ample time to soak in the beauty of these captivating islands.
Highlights of the Tour
One of the highlights of the Baveno: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour is exploring the grand Baroque Palazzo Borromeo on Bella Island. Visitors can wander through the lush Italian gardens with 10 terraces, admiring the stunning views. The tour also includes a visit to the charming alleys of the traditional fishing village on Pescatori Island, allowing travelers to enjoy the local culture.
| Island | Key Highlight |
|---|---|
| Bella | Baroque Palazzo Borromeo |
| Bella | Lush Italian gardens with 10 terraces |
| Pescatori | Charming alleys of traditional fishing village |
| Both | Free time to explore each island |
With the hop-on hop-off boat tour, visitors can easily navigate between the islands and make the most of their time on this scenic excursion.
Meeting Point and Arrival
Typically, the meeting point for the Baveno: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour is Piazza IV Novembre in Baveno.
Travelers are advised to arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to scan the QR code on their printed coupon. This coupon will be replaced with a Summer Boats sailing ticket once on board.
It’s important to note that the service isn’t guaranteed in bad weather, and the coupon can be used on another date if the tour is canceled.
The key things to remember are:
- Meet at Piazza IV Novembre in Baveno.
- Arrive 10 minutes early to scan the QR code.
- Printed coupon is required and will be replaced with a sailing ticket.
- Service may be canceled due to bad weather, but the coupon can be used on another date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments, as mentioned in the important information.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, food and drinks are not allowed inside the palace and gardens on the islands. Small dogs sail for free, but larger dogs incur a €3 supplement.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is valid for 1 day and the last boarding is at 11:40 AM, with daily returns until 5 PM. Extending the tour isn’t possible based on the provided information.
Do the Boats Have Any Amenities or Facilities?
The boats offer some basic amenities. They have seating areas for passengers and allow small dogs, though with a supplementary fee. However, there are no on-board facilities like restrooms or food and beverage services.
Can We Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
Yes, customers can purchase tickets on the day of the tour. The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so booking on the day is an option.
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Recap
The Baveno: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour offers an exciting way to explore the stunning Borromean Islands at your own pace. With access to the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo and free time to discover each island, this tour promises a delightful culture amidst breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply taking in the beautiful sights, this hop-on hop-off boat experience is an excellent choice.