Lake Maggiore: Isola Bella & Fishermen's Island Guided Tour
San Vittore, Milan
Discover the Borromean islands on Lake Maggiore on this walking tour with a ferry trip. The islands feature a grandiose medieval palace with manicured gardens, architecture, and picturesque views.
Highlights
- Visit Borromeo Palace, including gallery rooms and sea caves
- Explore the Baroque palace gardens, monumental theater, and panoramic terraces
- Discover Isola dei Pescatori’s alleys, crafts, and local lake cuisine
Description
This guided tour of Lake Maggiore starts in Stresa with a boat trip to Isola Bella and Palazzo Borromeo, which occupies nearly the entire island. Originally a fishing village with two small churches and gardens, it became Borromeo family property in the 17th century, leading to the construction of the palace and gardens.
Explore the Baroque interior, including the Berthier Gallery, Throne Room, Queens Room, and Tapestry Room. The palace features magnificent sea caves decorated with stones and shells, designed to create a marine world atmosphere.
The botanical gardens surround the palace and feature a variety of exotic plants, azalea parterres during flowering season, and the Garden of Love with box hedges visible from the terraces. White peacocks roam freely here. The Teatro Massimo amphitheater, the main garden monument, hosted scenic performances for the Borromeo family. The gardens also showcase statues, obelisks, fountains, and ten terraces topped by the Unicorn statue, a Borromeo family symbol.
A short boat ride from Isola Bella takes you to Isola dei Pescatori, known for its marina and lakeside restaurants serving typical fish dishes. Its narrow alleys offer views, souvenir shops, and local crafts. The church of San Vittore features 16th-century frescoes. Walking the village’s cobbled streets leads to a panoramic viewpoint surrounded by trees.
Includes
- Certified guide
Excludes
- Ticket for Palazzo Borromeo and gardens (Isola Bella)
- Boat from Stresa to Isola Bella
- Boat from Isola Bella to Isola dei Pescatori
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your preferred date. Bring comfortable walking shoes and consider visiting during spring for optimal garden flowering.
