Italy

To get a full refund, cancellation must be no less than 8 days before the local start time of the experience.

If traveler cancels their booking from 7 to 0 days before the local start time of the experience, no refund is provided.

Discover the grandeur of Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands in a curated guided experience. This experience combines history, architecture, and natural beauty, transporting you into the world of the aristocratic Borromeo family. From the opulent palaces and gardens of Isola Bella to the tranquil charm of Isola Madre and the timeless simplicity of Isola dei Pescatori, this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of these enchanting islands.

Embark on a journey to the heart of Lake Maggiore, where the three Borromean Islands—Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre—await to tell their stories. Once the vision of the Borromeo family, these islands represent a blend of art, history, and nature. Start your day on the botanical paradise of Isola Madre, enjoy a pre-fixed light lunch at a renowned Trattoria on Isola dei Pescatori, and conclude with a leisurely exploration of Isola Bella's sumptuous palace and gardens. [Note: The order of visiting the islands may vary.]

Take a train (1 hour) or drive (45 minutes) from Milan to Stresa. Your guide will meet you here. 

This experience stands apart by offering seamless access to the islands' most exclusive locations, accompanied by an expert guide who brings centuries of history to life. You will traverse the islands with ease, courtesy of included boat trips, ensuring a seamless transition from the tranquility of Isola Madre to the grandeur of Isola Bella. This day is an immersion into the lavish lifestyle of the Borromeo family, set against the backdrop of Lake Maggiore's breathtaking beauty.

Conclude your exclusive tour on Isola Bella, where the Borromeo Palace and its Italianate baroque garden await. This island transforms your visit into a journey back in time, as you explore the opulent palace, with its lavishly decorated rooms and impressive artworks. The gardens are a marvel of baroque artistry, featuring terraced gardens adorned with statues, obelisks, and, the pièce de résistance, the white peacock displaying its splendor among the blooms. Then take the boat back to Stresa with your guide. 

Note: The order of visit to the islands may vary based on the day and weather conditions. 

By public or charter boat with your guide. 

Once a humble fishermen's village, Isola Bella was transformed into a baroque masterpiece, envisioned as a grand "ship" by 17th-century architects. Explore the Palazzo Borromeo, where Napoleon once stayed, and marvel at its grottos, meticulously crafted with pebbles and shells. The gardens are a spectacle of terraced beauty, home to peacocks and exotic plants, showcasing a grand winter garden, or 'Serra Elisa', for year-round botanical splendor. 

Isola Bella encapsulates the pinnacle of Baroque art and architecture, offering a grand finale to your tour of the Borromean Islands. The palace and gardens exemplify the height of luxury and artistic achievement, providing an awe-inspiring glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Borromeo family. It’s a testament to human creativity and the beauty of nature, intertwined in a magnificent display of history and art.

Wander through the sumptuous Borromeo Palace, and marvel at the intricate baroque gardens.

Isola Bella

Stresa, a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Italy, offers a captivating blend of scenic beauty and historic charm. This serene location is the perfect starting point for a memorable boat trip to Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands. 

Drive to Stresa using your private transportation or by train from Milan. After booking, chat with Elena to confirm the exact meeting point. 

The journey across the clear, blue waters of Lake Maggiore offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and the lake's serene expanse. As you glide towards Isola Madre, the boat ride becomes an immersive experience in tranquility and natural beauty. 

Boat trip from Stresa to the islands and back to Stresa in the evening.

Boat Trip: Stresa-Isola Madre 

Start your journey on Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands, renowned for its English-style botanical gardens and rare botanical specimens. This morning visit invites you to wander through a tranquil paradise, where peacocks roam and exotic plants from around the world flourish. Discover the Renaissance villa adorned with family heirlooms and artworks, set amidst the backdrop of meticulously landscaped gardens that overlook the shimmering waters of Lake Maggiore.

NOTE: The order of visit to the islands may vary based on the day and weather conditions. 

Meet your guide at Stresa. After booking this experience, chat with Elena to get exact details of meeting point. 

Meet at Stresa and take a boat to Isola Madre. Isola Madre offers an unparalleled botanical experience, blending historical opulence with natural beauty. The garden's exotic and rare flora, alongside the villa's historical treasures, provide a serene start to the day, capturing the essence of the Borromeo family's legacy of art and nature. It's a place where the tranquility of nature meets the grandeur of Italian aristocracy.

Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore: Historical Treasures and Botanical Gardens

Isola Madre

After the serene beauty of Isola Madre, continue to Isola dei Pescatori, the only inhabited island of the trio, for a pre-fixed light lunch at a renowned Trattoria. Here, traditional dishes that capture the essence of the local fishing heritage are served in an intimate setting, offering a taste of the island's rich culinary traditions. Stroll the quaint streets of this charming island, exploring its unique character and timeless allure.

By public or charter boat along with your guide. 

Isola dei Pescatori is a must-visit for its authentic charm. Celebrated by Ernest Hemingway in "A Farewell to Arms," it's known for its picturesque narrow alleys and balconied houses, reflecting a rich fishing heritage. After exploring Isola Madre in the morning, arrive at Isola dei Pescatori. Amidst pottery shops and inns, enjoy a pre-fixed light lunch at a local Trattoria, savoring fresh catch amidst the island's historical ambiance, before moving on to Isola Bella for the afternoon. 

Isola dei Pescatori stands out for its vibrant community and historic ambiance, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of those who call the Borromean Islands home. The carefully selected Trattoria, known for its exceptional cuisine and atmosphere, provides an authentic dining experience, melding local flavors with picturesque views, making for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Light lunch at a Trattoria, immerse in the authentic atmosphere of Isola dei Pescatori.

Isola dei Pescatori 

Boat Tour discovering the three Borromean Islands on scenic Lake Maggiore, an hour from Milan.

Meet at Stresa. 
The guide will accompany guests to all three islands including a lunch stop. 
All prices (boat tickets, island tickets, botanical garden and meal) included. 

The per person price of this experience assumes a minimum number of participants to cover base costs and logistics. The supplemental fee enables us to maintain quality and exclusivity for your smaller than minimum group

Timeless Charm: Lake Maggiore

Private guided exploration of the Borromean Islands — Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella — with expert historical and cultural commentary.

Admission to key attractions, including botanical gardens on Isola Madre and palace on Isola Bella.

Private small-boat charters between islands where possible, ensuring smooth, scenic transfers.

Light lunch at traditional trattoria on Isola dei Pescatori.

**The experience has a minimum of EUR 1,100, accommodating 1–4 participants (max 6).

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the islands' paths and gardens.
A camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architectural marvels.
Sunglasses and sunscreen for protection during your outdoor adventure.


Meet your host in Stresa. Take a train (1 hour) or drive (45 minutes) from Milan to Stresa. Your guide will meet you here.  Drive to Stresa using your private transportation or by train from Milan. After booking, chat with Elena to confirm the exact meeting point. 

Your guide, a local expert and a connoisseur of Lake Maggiore's history and natural beauty, brings a wealth of expertise and passion to your journey. With deep knowledge of the Borromean Islands' heritage and a knack for storytelling, they offer a captivating narrative that enriches your experience.

**Note regarding start time: While the start times are set to provide the best experience, adjustments may be possible, and guests should contact Elena if they have a specific time preference after booking.