Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands showcase some of Italy’s finest island-hopping opportunities. The most practical way to explore is via the convenient hop-on hop-off boat service, which offers excellent value and flexibility for independent travelers. Private boat tours, while pricier, provide intimate experiences with local captains who know the best photo spots and quiet coves.
I particularly love the Borromean Gulf sightseeing tour – it’s perfect for time-strapped visitors who want to see the essentials: the magnificent Borromeo Palace, lush gardens, and those famous white peacocks that roam the grounds. The 90-minute journey hits all the highlights while avoiding tourist crowds.
Let’s explore the top boat tours that make the most of your Lake Maggiore visit.
Key Points
- The Borromean Islands offer a range of boat tours, including hop-on hop-off, private boat tours, and sightseeing cruises, catering to different preferences and budgets.
- The classic hop-on hop-off boat tour provides flexible exploration of the three main islands at an affordable price of $15.87 per person.
- The private boat tour experience offers a more personalized sightseeing journey, with a minimum of 3 hours, starting at $264.45 per group.
- The Borromean Gulf sightseeing cruise provides a 40-minute panoramic tour, showcasing the Borromeo Palace, tropical gardens, and iconic white peacocks, starting at $158.67 per group.
- Visitors should consider the practical factors, such as cancellation policies, accessibility, and closing times, to ensure a comfortable and seamless Borromean Islands experience.
Lake Maggiore: Borromean Islands Tickets With Boat Transfer
Visiting the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore is a must-do experience. The islands offer a diverse range of activities, from popular boat tours to private cruises and unique experiences.
For a classic Borromean Islands tour, consider the “Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour“, which allows you to explore the islands at your own pace. It’s rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 3,000 reviews and costs $15.87 per person.
If you’re looking for a more private experience, the “From Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Private Boat Tour” is an excellent option. It’s rated 4.2 out of 5 stars from 68 reviews and costs $264.45 per group (up to 10 people).
For those interested in a boat transfer, the “From Stresa: Isola Madre Return Boat Transfer” is a convenient way to visit the islands, with a duration of 1 day and a cost of $13.75 per person.
Read our full review: Lake Maggiore: Borromean Islands Tickets With Boat Transfer Review
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Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise
This captivating Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise offers a panoramic tour around the enchanting Borromean Islands.
Priced from $158.67 per group (up to 10 participants), this 40-minute cruise allows you to discover Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella.
You’ll marvel at the Borromeo Palace and its world-famous gardens from the comfort of your boat. The cruise experience is entirely relaxing, as there are no stops – you’ll remain on board throughout.
Highlights include sailing past the tropical gardens and villa of Isola Madre, exploring the ancient houses of the year-round inhabited Isola dei Pescatori, and touring Isola Bella’s gardens and terraces.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot the iconic white peacocks.
With live tour guides available in Italian, English, and French, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is an excellent choice for your Borromean Islands adventure.
Read our full review: Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise Review
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From Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Private Boat Tour
With a private boat tour from Stresa, you’ll have the chance to explore the enchanting Borromean Islands at your own pace. Priced from $264.45 per group (up to 10 participants), this flexible tour allows you to reserve now and pay later, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
The experience includes private boat rides with hop-on hop-off access, allowing you to sightsee and self-guide through Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Spend a minimum of 3 hours visiting the islands, with activities like photo stops, lunch in Isola dei Pescatori, guided tours, and shopping. The last entrance to parks and villas is at 5:30 PM.
Pickup is included from 16 locations in Stresa, with drop-off available at 17 locations. Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with claustrophobia, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Read our full review: From Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Private Boat Tour Review
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The Sum Up
The Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore offer captivating cruises and boat tours. You can purchase tickets for boat transfers to the islands, explore the Borromean Gulf on a sightseeing cruise, or take a private boat tour of the three islands. With a variety of options, you can tailor your experience to your interests and preferences for an unforgettable visit to this picturesque Italian destination.