Lake Maggiore Gems: Private Borromean Islands Tour
360
Overview
The Gems of Lake Maggiore - the Borromean Islands on a private guided tour to discover a treasure on Lake Maggiore! See the three Borromean Islands with their palaces and gardens. A local guide will take you on a special tour. Step back in time and see paintings, tapestries, Murano glass chandeliers, furniture, and gardens on Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
The tour guide meets at the pier in Stresa to take a boat to Isola Madre, a paradise. Walk in the English-style garden to admire plants and flowers. The villa has rooms in a country-style building from the 16th century. Then the tour goes to Isola Bella to enjoy lunch (free time) before visiting a palace with collections and Italianate gardens. The Key Stops will include the Botanical Garden & Villa, Borromeo Palace and Gardens (Isola Bella), and Isola Pescatori (Fishermen's Island).
This is a personal tour with a qualified local guide to give you a special experience. Please note that admission tickets (€36 per person) and boat transport (€17/€20 per person) are not included. For groups of 5+ people, a whisper system is needed for €3.50 per person.
Highlights
Explore Stunning Islands: Visit the beautiful Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore.
See Amazing Palaces & Gardens: Discover Isola Bella and Isola Madre's palaces and gardens.
Private Guided Tour: Enjoy a personal tour with a local, qualified guide.
Step Back in Time: See paintings, tapestries, and more from the past.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers enjoyed the beautiful sights and knowledgeable guides. Some were surprised by extra costs and felt a bit rushed.

Customers loved the beautiful gardens and palaces.
The tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly.
Many visitors enjoyed the boat rides between the islands.
The history and art were very impressive to guests.
Some people found the extra costs for tickets and boats surprising.
A few visitors felt rushed at certain locations.
The Journey
Botanical Garden & Villa
Wander through a breathtaking botanical garden, a vibrant tapestry of exotic flora from around the globe, meticulously arranged to delight the senses. Conclude your stroll with a guided visit to a magnificent villa dating back to the 16th century, its architecture and history whispering tales of a bygone era. Experience the seamless blend of natural beauty and aristocratic elegance, a testament to Italian artistry and historical preservation.
Borromeo Palace and Gardens (Isola Bella)
Be captivated by the splendor of the Borromeo Palace on Isola Bella, a Baroque masterpiece rising from the azure waters of Lake Maggiore. Explore the terraced Italian-style gardens, a harmonious blend of art and nature, where meticulously sculpted hedges, statues, and fountains create a scene of unparalleled beauty. Discover the rich history of the Borromeo family and their enduring legacy in this enchanting island paradise.
Isola Pescatori (Fishermen's Island)
Step into a world of timeless charm on Isola Pescatori, also known as Fishermen's Island. Spend approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes freely exploring the island's narrow, winding streets, soaking in the authentic atmosphere of a traditional fishing village. Indulge in a delightful meal at a local trattoria, savoring the fresh flavors of Lake Maggiore, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront, immersing yourself in the island's unique cultural tapestry.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a qualified local tour guide for a personal experience. It does not include admission tickets (€36 per person) or boat transport (€17/€20 per person by scheduled boat; private boat service is possible). For groups larger than 5 people, a whisper system is compulsory at a cost of €3.50 per person. The tour starts at the pier in Stresa.
Hot Tip
Some visitors recommended confirming boat schedules in advance and bringing snacks to avoid costly purchases on the islands. Many reviewers suggest allocating enough time to fully explore the palaces and gardens without rushing.