Lake Maggiore’s boat tours from Stresa are refreshingly straightforward and well-organized. The most practical option is the hop-on/hop-off ferry service connecting the three Borromean Islands – Bella, Pescatori, and Madre. Basic tickets cost $8.45-15.85, a good value for exploring all three islands at your own pace. We love the morning scenic cruises for the best lighting and fewer crowds, offering excellent photo opportunities of lakeside villas and Alpine views. For a special splurge, private boat tours let you explore hidden coves and less-visited spots. Let’s explore the best boat tours around these magnificent islands.
Key Points
- Stresa offers a variety of popular and highly rated boat tours to the Borromean Islands, with prices ranging from $8.45 to $15.85 per person.
- The Borromean Islands, including Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori, provide scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and opportunities for photography and dining.
- Comprehensive island tours, ranging from 7 to 10 hours, offer the flexibility of free cancellation and the convenience of pickup from nearby cities like Milan.
- Private cruises and customizable private boat tours provide exclusive experiences, with options for personalized itineraries and visits to additional sites like Santa Caterina Del Sasso.
- Unique experiences, such as boat dinners, market trips, and snorkeling tours, enhance the overall boat tour offerings in Stresa.
Stresa – Boat Tour of Isola Bella (Lake Maggiore)
One of the most popular boat tours from Stresa is the excursion to Isola Bella, the most famous of the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore.
The tour includes hop-on/hop-off access to the island and lasts for 1 day. Prices start from $8.45 per person, and there’s a reserve now & pay later option available.
Highlights include a scenic boat tour, visiting the Borromean Palace, exploring the Italian seventeenth-century gardens, and photographing white peacocks.
The tour also includes entry tickets to Isola Bella Palace and Garden, though the landing fee of €0.50 per island is payable on-site.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the meeting point is the Lake Tours pier marked by a large yellow flag in Piazza Marconi.
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Isola Dei Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat
Travelers can embark on a hop-on hop-off boat tour that whisks them to the captivating Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella, two of the renowned Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore.
Priced at just $12.68 per person, the tour includes entrance to the Borromean palaces and gardens, as well as the landing fee.
Passengers can explore the charming alleys of Isola dei Pescatori and enjoy a lakeside lunch, then visit Isola Bella to see the Palazzo Borromeo and photograph the white peacocks.
With rotations every 30 minutes and less crowding than the ferry, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to experience these picturesque islands.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
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From Stresa: Isola Madre Return Boat Transfer
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of the Borromean Islands, the ‘From Stresa: Isola Madre Return Boat Transfer‘ offers a convenient and flexible way to visit the enchanting Isola Madre.
Priced from $13.74 per person, this 1-day activity allows you to create your own itinerary, with boat service every 30 minutes. Sail around Lake Maggiore, photograph white peacocks, and admire the botanical gardens.
The experience includes a return boat ticket, multilingual pre-recorded commentary, and access to the Borromean Palace Museum and Gardens.
However, it excludes the landing fee, entrance fees, food and drinks, and a tour guide. While not suitable for those with mobility issues, this boat transfer is an excellent option for independent travelers.
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Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip
Departing from the picturesque town of Stresa, the “Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip” takes visitors on a captivating voyage to explore the enchanting Borromean Islands.
Priced at just $13.74 per person, the day-long tour allows guests to hop-on and hop-off at the islands of Madre and Bella.
Visitors can enjoy the botanical gardens, free-living birdlife, and unique Cashmere tree on Madre Island, as well as the Borromean Palace, Italian-style gardens, and boutique shops on Bella Island.
With flexible booking, free cancellation, and included entrance fees, this boat trip offers excellent value and a memorable experience exploring the jewels of Lake Maggiore.
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Stresa: Boat Tour of the 3 Borromean Islands Free Departure
This captivating boat tour allows visitors to explore the three enchanting Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, departing from the picturesque town of Stresa.
Priced from just $15.85 per person, the tour provides access to Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori, each offering unique attractions.
Explore Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, the botanical garden on Isola Madre, and the fishing village on Isola Pescatori.
Convenient transportation between islands is included, with small boats ensuring a quick and enjoyable experience.
The tour boasts an impressive 4.5/5 rating from over 300 reviews, with highlights praising the value and convenience.
Visitors can take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Lake Maggiore: Boat to Santa Caterina From Feriolo
The boat tour to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso departs from the town of Feriolo, offering visitors a chance to explore the sacred site nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Maggiore.
The 2-hour tour costs €15 per adult and €5 for children, with a family offer of 2 adults and 2 children under 23 months for €30.
Entrance to the hermitage is an additional €5 per adult, with children under 17 free.
Guests can reserve and pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The multilingual captain provides commentary as you take in the scenic views and skip the ticket line at the hermitage.
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Lago Maggiore: 3 Borromean Islands Boat From Feriolo
Visitors to Feriolo can embark on a 7-hour boat cruise to explore the captivating Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. The excursion, priced from €17.50 per person, allows travelers to visit Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Madre, each with its own unique attractions.
The tour includes a boat ride, landing tax, and admission to Isola Bella and Madre, but excludes the entrance to Borromeo Palace and Italian Gardens on Isola Bella. Travelers can enjoy free time to explore the islands and engage in optional activities like swimming.
The cruise is subject to weather conditions, and a minimum of 15 adult participants is required. The tour receives mixed reviews but is praised for the beauty of the islands and the reliability of the company.
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Lake Maggiore: Boat Trip to Luino From Feriolo
Travelers seeking a unique experience on Lake Maggiore can embark on a boat trip from Feriolo to the vibrant Luino market. The 6-hour excursion costs $26.42 per person and allows visitors to explore the bustling market stalls, stroll along the picturesque lakefront, and relax on the boat while enjoying the scenic views.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, the trip is both flexible and convenient. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
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Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori From Feriolo
For those looking to further explore Lake Maggiore, a captivating boat dinner experience awaits at Isola Pescatori, departing from Feriolo.
This 3-hour private taxi boat ride departs at 18:15 from Feriolo Pier, arriving at the Fishermen’s Island around 18:30. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the island’s restaurants, savoring the stunning lakeside views.
The return boat transfer is at 20:45. Priced from $15.85 per person, the activity features flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Multilingual captains are available, and a minimum of 15 participants is required, subject to weather conditions. Customers have given this excursion a 5/5 rating.
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Stresa: Isola Madre and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
From the heart of Stresa, a captivating hop-on hop-off boat tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the enchanting Isola Madre and Isola Bella, the jewels of Lake Maggiore.
Priced at just $13.74 per person, this 1-day tour offers the freedom to disembark and discover the islands’ botanical gardens, villas, and shopping.
The tour includes entrance fees, multilingual staff, and flexible departure times. Visitors can expect to spend around 2 hours on each island, marveling at the unique flora, historic attractions, and stunning lake vistas.
With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now with no upfront payment, this tour is a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the Borromean Islands.
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From Stresa: Isola Pescatori Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
One can embark on a captivating hop-on hop-off boat tour from Stresa to explore the enchanting Isola Pescatori, a charming fishing village nestled on Lake Maggiore.
Priced from €9.00 per person and valid for 1 day, this scenic boat ride offers the flexibility to hop on and off as you please.
Discover the island’s narrow streets, visit the historic Church of San Vittore, and savor local specialties at restaurants.
Enjoy the enchanting views while shopping for typical products.
This experience includes the hop-on hop-off boat tour and a landing tax of €0.50 per person.
Boarding is at Piazza Marconi, Lake Tours pier, and reserving in advance is recommended.
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From Stresa: 2 Borromean Islands Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
Explore the enchanting Borromean Islands on a captivating hop-on hop-off boat tour from Stresa. Priced from $12.68 per person, this 1-day excursion whisks you to the picture-perfect islands of Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori.
Zip between the islands on 5-to-15-minute speedboat rides, enjoying botanical gardens, grand palaces, and charming fishing villages. The tour includes multilingual commentary, free time on each island, and entrance to the Borromean Palace Museum and Gardens.
While food, drinks, and island fees are extra, this flexible public service allows you to craft your own itinerary. With an impressive 4.3/5 rating, this is a can’t-miss Italian adventure.
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Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
The Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour provides an enchanting way to discover the Borromean Islands from Stresa.
Priced from $12.68 per person, this flexible tour allows you to hop on and off at Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella.
Enjoy multilingual audio commentary as you cruise, and explore the islands at your own pace.
Highlights include the charming alleys and local cuisine of Isola dei Pescatori, as well as the Borromean Palace, Italian gardens, and boutique shopping on Isola Bella.
Though not suitable for those with mobility issues, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural attractions of these picturesque islands.
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Stresa: Boat Cruise Around the Borromean Islands
Travelers visiting Stresa can embark on a delightful 30-minute boat cruise around the captivating Borromean Islands. Priced from $15.85 per person, the cruise departs from the Navigazione Isole Borromee Lago Maggiore S.N.C. in Stresa.
During the tour, guests will enjoy a relaxing journey while listening to the multilingual captain’s narration about the main sites, including Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori, and the luxurious villas along the Stresa coast.
The cruise operates rain or shine, though it may be canceled or rescheduled due to adverse weather. Guests should bring a camera, as the unique perspective of Stresa and Lake Maggiore’s lesser-known corners promises stunning views.
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Lake Maggiore: Stresa and Islands Boat Tour From Feriolo
This comprehensive 7-hour Lake Maggiore: Stresa and Islands Boat Tour from Feriolo offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the picturesque Borromean Islands and the charming town of Stresa.
Priced at $21.14 per person, the tour includes free cancellation and the ability to reserve now and pay later.
Highlights include a visit to the traditional Isola dei Pescatori, the beautiful Isola Bella, and free time to explore Stresa.
Departing from Feriolo, the private boats run every 30 minutes from Piazza Marconi.
While the cost of the excursion is reasonable, additional fees apply for island landing tax and entrance to the Borromeo Palaces.
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Stresa: Private Cruise to Santa Caterina Del Sasso
A private cruise along the picturesque Lake Maggiore offers visitors the opportunity to explore the charming town of Stresa and its stunning coastline.
Priced from €150 for up to 10 participants, this 40-minute cruise allows guests to admire the historical villas lining the Stresa coast, including Villa Amalia Bernocchi and Villa Carlottina Margherita.
The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, a medieval religious site perched on a rock face.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this private cruise provides a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore.
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From Stresa: Lake Maggiore Cruise & Santa Caterina Del Sasso
One of the most popular boat tours in Stresa is the From Stresa: Lake Maggiore Cruise & Santa Caterina Del Sasso.
This 2-hour private cruise costs from $422.74 for up to 11 participants and departs from Stresa or Baveno.
The tour includes a visit to the renowned Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, where you can explore the chapel, church, and scenic natural setting.
Along the way, you’ll admire the historical villas and stunning panoramas of Lake Maggiore.
The tour is multilingual, with hotel pickup and drop-off available.
Though not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour operates rain or shine and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Lake Maggiore, Stresa and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise
Frequently, travelers to the picturesque town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore opt for the breathtaking Lake Maggiore, Stresa and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise.
This 1-hour activity allows visitors to explore the Borromean Gulf and its three islands – Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. During the cruise, guests can enjoy scenic views and take photos.
The tour also includes a stop at Isola Bella, where they can admire the Borromeo Palace and Italian gardens. The cruise is suitable for small groups or romantic getaways, and larger groups can be accommodated with weather protection.
With multilingual captains, fuel, and tips included, this sunset cruise is a popular way to experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore.
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From Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Gulf Boat Tour
Travelers looking to explore the breathtaking Borromean Gulf from Stresa can embark on the Lake Maggiore and Borromean Gulf Boat Tour.
This 45-minute cruise takes guests through the Borromean Gulf, including the islands of Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Priced at £124.57 for up to four participants, the tour offers panoramic views of the coastal towns and the Borromeo Palace.
While there are no stops on the islands, the multilingual crew provides pre-recorded commentary in Italian and English. Travelers should note the free cancellation policy and the requirement to leave oversized luggage behind.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from previous customers, this boat tour is suitable for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.
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From Milan: Lake Maggiore & Borromean Gems With Boat Cruise
Departing from Milan, the Lake Maggiore & Borromean Gems With Boat Cruise offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Borromean Gulf.
The full-day tour lasts 10 hours and costs $104.63 per person, with a 3.9 rating from 18 reviews. Guests will visit the picturesque towns of Stresa and the Alps, as well as enjoy a boat cruise along Lake Maggiore.
The tour provides an opportunity to discover the Borromean Islands, including the renowned Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori.
With a convenient pickup from Milan, this excursion is an ideal way for visitors to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Lake Maggiore region.
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BOAT TOUR FROM TAORMINA & SNORKELING HALF-DAY
This half-day boat tour from Taormina offers travelers an opportunity to explore the stunning coastline and secluded coves near Taormina.
The tour includes a scenic boat ride and the chance to go snorkeling in the clear waters. Guests can admire the rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and marine life.
The boat tour lasts approximately 3 hours and departs from the port in Taormina. Snorkeling equipment is provided, making it easy for participants to discover the underwater world.
With a maximum group size of 12 people, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience. Priced at $54.76 per person, it’s an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the Taormina region from the water.
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Stresa: Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
The Stresa: Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour provides visitors an opportunity to explore the stunning Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore at their own pace.
Priced from $8.45 per person, the tour allows guests to hop on and off the boats running every 30 minutes to discover Isola Bella’s Palace Museum, Italianate gardens, and the charming fishing village.
While the boat ticket and hop-on hop-off service are included, entrance fees to the museum and gardens are extra.
The tour operates rain or shine, but may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
With an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5, the tour offers a beautiful island experience, though some feedback suggests the need for better scheduling information.
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From Stresa: Fishermen’s Island Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
Visitors to Stresa can embark on the Isola Pescatori Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour to explore the charming Fishermen’s Island at their own pace.
This activity-based tour offers flexibility, with boat service running every 30 minutes and the option to disembark and re-board as desired. Priced from $9.51 per person, the tour includes round-trip boat tickets and multilingual commentary.
Guests can discover the local craft markets, seafood dining, and unique atmosphere of the fishing village. A private boat option is available for a more exclusive experience.
With cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an overall customer rating of 4.7/5, this tour provides a convenient and enjoyable way to visit the Borromean Islands from Stresa.
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From Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Isola Bella Private Boat Tour
Departing from Stresa’s Piazza Marconi, travelers can embark on a private taxi-boat tour to explore the captivating Isola Bella and the picturesque Borromean Islands.
Priced from $634.12 per group (up to 2 participants), the 3-hour tour (customizable between 2-4 hours) includes a guided visit to Isola Bella’s baroque gardens and architectural highlights.
Scenic views of the Borromean Islands and Gulf are included, along with a boat cruise, sightseeing, walking, and photo stops.
The tour provides headsets for clear communication, admission tickets, and landing/entry fees.
While lunch isn’t included, participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes and a camera.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
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From Lake Maggiore: Private Boat Tour With Pickup/Drop-Off
For those seeking a more comprehensive Lake Maggiore experience, a private boat tour with pickup and drop-off is an excellent option. Priced at $634.12 for up to 10 people, the tour allows visitors to explore the Borromean Islands, visit Santa Caterina del Sasso, and enjoy scenic drives and sightseeing.
Pickup and drop-off are included at 17 locations, with drivers waiting up to 15 minutes. The tour includes a private boat, entrance to the Borromean Palace Museum and Gardens, and multilingual commentary.
While food, drinks, and local guides aren’t included, the flexibility and convenience of this tour make it a popular choice for those looking to make the most of their time on Lake Maggiore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Passengers can usually bring their own food and drinks on boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or policies regarding outside items. Following the tour’s guidelines ensures an enjoyable and safe experience.
Are There Restrooms Available on the Boats During the Tours?
Yes, most boat tours provide restrooms on board for passengers’ convenience. Travelers can expect clean and well-maintained facilities to use during the duration of the tour, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Do the Boat Tours Provide Any Audio Guides or Commentary?
Most boat tours provide audio guides or commentary to enhance the experience, allowing passengers to learn about the sights and history along the way. Some tours may also offer multilingual options for a more personalized experience.
Can I Disembark at Multiple Islands During the Hop-On Hop-Off Tours?
Yes, travelers can typically disembark at multiple islands during hop-on hop-off boat tours. This allows them to explore each island at their own pace before re-boarding the boat to continue the tour.
Are There Any Age or Disability Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours don’t have age or disability restrictions, but it’s best to check with the operator beforehand. They may have some limitations to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
The Sum Up
Stresa offers a variety of boat tours and cruises to explore the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. Visitors can choose from hop-on hop-off tours, private boat excursions, and transfers to the islands. These water-based experiences allow travelers to appreciate the scenic beauty and historic sites of this picturesque region at their own pace.