Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour

Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
Location: Lake Maggiore, Italy
Country: Italy
Rating: 4.3/5 (based on over 3,300 reviews)
Price: $17 per person
Duration: Valid for one day, with multiple departures between 9:45 AM and 1:15 PM

We recently had the chance to try this popular lake hop-on hop-off boat tour from Stresa, and it’s a wonderfully flexible way to explore the iconic Borromean Islands. For just under twenty dollars, you get the chance to visit Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella at your own pace. The tour includes modern boats, multilingual commentary, and plenty of free time on each island — a real plus for those wanting to tailor their day.

Two things truly shine about this experience. First, the island visits are well-paced, allowing enough time to stroll, take photos, or enjoy a leisurely meal. Second, the stunning scenery of Lake Maggiore, with its shimmering waters and charming islands, is something you’ll never forget. The value is also hard to beat, especially considering the extra costs involved in visiting the islands’ palaces and gardens separately.

One thing to keep in mind is that timing and clarity of instructions can sometimes be a little confusing, especially at the start of the day. The boat departure times are not fixed, and the signs or signs at the dock could be clearer. However, most travelers find the system easy enough once they get the hang of it. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, self-directed day with beautiful scenery and a touch of local culture.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $17, it offers excellent value for the opportunity to visit three islands.
• Flexible Itinerary: You control how long you spend on each island, perfect for different interests.
• Beautiful Scenery: The views of Lake Maggiore and the islands’ lush gardens are truly captivating.
• Variety of Attractions: From botanical gardens to palaces and charming fishing villages, each island offers something different.
• Multilingual Support: Commentary and staff speak several languages, making it accessible for international visitors.
• Extra Costs: Entrance fees for palaces and gardens are separate, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Stresa

The tour begins at Navigazione Isole Borromee Lago Maggiore S.N.C., located near the picturesque Piazza Marconi. Here, you’ll exchange your voucher for a ticket and pay a small landing fee of €0.50 per island — cash only. The boats are easily recognizable, marked with the Italian flag and the company’s logo, which helps avoid confusion amid busy docks.

First Stop: Isola Madre

Travel time from Stresa to Isola Madre is roughly 15 minutes. This is the most remote of the islands, and its famous botanical gardens are a highlight. Many reviews mention the well-kept gardens and the lively birdlife, including peacocks and pheasants wandering freely. Visitors often rave about the Cashmere trees and Bougainvillea, which add a splash of color.

One reviewer noted, “The gardens are kept very well hence it’s so much enjoyable,” and another appreciated the villa with its puppet collection. The free time here typically allows for about 1-2 hours, enough to explore the gardens and take photos, but you’ll need to plan ahead if you want to visit the villa or the butterfly house — these require separate tickets.

Second Stop: Isola dei Pescatori

Next, the boat zips across the water in about 10 minutes. This small, inhabited island is famous for its winding alleys and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the only one of the three islands with year-round residents, making it a genuine little fishing village.

Many guests enjoy sampling local dishes at the cozy restaurants lining the narrow streets. Several reviews highlight the delicious food and the authentic feel of the place. One quite positive review noted, “We found some good buys & good food on Isola dei Pescatori,” which shows how the island blends culinary delights with local charm.

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Final Stop: Isola Bella

The boat then heads to Isola Bella, the most famous of the three, in roughly 5 minutes. This island’s palace and gardens are the main attractions. The palazzo is a stunning example of Italian architecture, and the terraces offer sweeping views of the lake.

Visitors often mention the boutiques and handicraft markets, which make shopping a bit more special. Keep in mind that entrance to the palace and gardens is not included in the tour and costs about €30, payable locally. Reviewers agree that the gardens and palace are worth the extra cost, with many saying it’s a highlight of their visit.

Return to Stresa

The boat returns to Stresa after completing all stops. The schedule is flexible, with departures roughly every hour or half-hour, allowing you to craft your day according to your pace.

What You Can Expect During the Day

Cruising and Commentary:
The boats are modern, comfortable, and equipped with pre-recorded multilingual commentary in English and Italian. While the reviews praise the knowledgeable crew and punctual service, some travelers find the commentary could be more engaging or detailed. Still, it’s a helpful way to learn about the sights without a guide.

Time on Each Island:
Most reviews suggest they spend about 1.5 to 3 hours on each island, which is enough to see the highlights, grab a meal, or relax. The order of visits is usually Isola Madre first, then Pescatori, and finally Bella, aligning with the natural flow and ease of navigation.

Food and Shopping:
Many travelers take advantage of the local restaurants for lunch or a snack. The islands offer simple yet authentic lake fish dishes and local specialties. If you plan to visit the palaces or gardens, don’t forget to buy tickets separately — many reviewers found this straightforward and worth the additional expense.

Timing and Flexibility:
Since the departure times aren’t fixed, you’ll want to arrive early to avoid missing your preferred boat. The tours run from mid-morning until early afternoon, with the last departure from Isola Madre at around 2:50 PM. The flexibility is a big plus, letting you choose how much time you want to spend on each island.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Travelers

Many reviews highlight that this tour offers authentic local flavor and a chance to see Lake Maggiore from the water — something that’s hard to replicate with land-only visits. One reviewer said, “The boat drivers were friendly and brought us safely to every island,” which reassures travelers about the reliability and friendliness of the staff.

Several travelers mention that finding the boat is simple, with clear signs and recognizable boats, but others note that the schedule can be confusing at first. “A little sign on the front of the boat will match your pass,” one review suggests, and advises arriving a bit early.

Value for Money:
At only $17 per person, the tour is widely considered a great deal, especially since you get free time on each island and an audio guide. The extra fees for the entrances are worth it, according to those who visited the gardens and palaces.

Tips for a Smooth Trip:
– Arrive early and buy your tickets in advance if possible.
– Prepare some cash for the landing fee and optional entrance tickets.
– Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the gardens or alleyways.
– Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water for sunny days.
– Be patient if your boat is delayed; most delays are minor, and the staff are accommodating.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Borromean Islands hop-on hop-off is a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a self-guided, relaxed day exploring Italy’s scenic lakeside. It suits those who cherish authentic landscapes, beautiful gardens, and period palaces, but don’t want to pay for a full guided tour or multiple separate tickets.

It’s ideal for independent travelers, families, and couples seeking a flexible itinerary with plenty of opportunities for photos and leisure. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning scenery combined with local culture — plus doesn’t mind a bit of logistical planning — this tour offers a memorable experience at a very reasonable price.

However, if you’re after guided commentary, detailed tours of the palaces, or have mobility issues, you might want to consider adding guided visits or checking accessibility options beforehand.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the boat ride and island visits are generally family-friendly. Just be mindful of the walking involved and extra tickets for palace and garden entries.

Can I buy tickets on the day?
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the dock, but buying in advance is recommended to secure your preferred departure time and avoid disappointment amid busy days.

How long do we have on each island?
Most reviews suggest about 1.5 to 3 hours per island, depending on your interests and whether you choose to visit additional attractions.

Are entrance fees to palaces and gardens included?
No, these are extra and paid locally, typically around €30 for both palaces and gardens. Visits to Isola Madre and Bella are optional but highly recommended.

What language is the commentary in?
The pre-recorded commentary is in English and Italian. Staff and crew speak multiple languages to assist travelers.

Is there a fixed schedule?
No, departures are roughly every hour or half-hour from mid-morning to early afternoon, giving you some flexibility.

Can I visit the gardens and palaces separately?
Yes, tickets can be purchased online or on-site for the gardens and palaces. Many travelers find this worthwhile for the full experience.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are permitted on the boat but not inside the museums or gardens.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, cash for landing fees, sunscreen, water, and a hat. No large luggage, bikes, or alcohol allowed.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour may be canceled if the weather is poor, and you will get a full refund. Check weather forecasts and be prepared for possible changes.

This boat tour offers a beautiful and affordable way to see Lake Maggiore’s most famous sights, without the stress of rigid schedules or guided tours. Whether you’re a history buff, a garden lover, or simply seeking scenic tranquility, this experience can be tailored to your pace — making it a highlight of any trip to the Italian lakes.

You can check availability for your dates here: