Travelers seeking a taste of Italy’s iconic lakeside beauty will find this boat tour to Isola Bella a wonderfully accessible way to explore the Borromean Islands without breaking the bank. For just $9 per person, you get a short but scenic boat ride from Stresa that offers enough time to enjoy the highlights of this famous island, including its palace, gardens, and charming village. The tour operates on a flexible schedule, allowing you to choose a departure time that fits your day.
Two features stand out immediately: First, the stunning views of Lake Maggiore that you’ll enjoy during the boat ride — a perfect way to start your day. Second, the freedom to stay as long as you want on the island, with the hop-on/hop-off format giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, a small factor to consider is the landing fee of 0.50 euros per island, payable on-site, which adds a tiny extra cost to the overall experience.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an affordable, authentic experience of one of Italy’s most photographed islands. It’s particularly good if you’re interested in garden landscapes, historic palaces, and local shops — but it might not suit those who need full guided tours or have mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Key Points
- Affordable price: At just $9, this tour offers great value for a unique lake adventure.
- Flexible visit: You can hop on and stay as long as you like on Isola Bella.
- Cultural highlights: Visit the Borromean palace and stroll through the iconic gardens.
- Photographic moments: Capture the white peacocks and panoramic lake views.
- Additional costs: Expect a small landing fee and the need to buy separate tickets for palace and garden entry.
- Authentic experience: The tour offers a genuine taste of Italian garden and palace culture, not just a quick photo stop.
Exploring Isola Bella: What You Can Expect
Once you step onto Isola Bella, you’ll quickly notice the island’s spectacular terraced gardens that cascade down to the lake. The palace, once the home of the Borromean family, is filled with priceless artworks and offers a glimpse into Italian aristocratic history. We loved how the gardens are meticulously maintained, full of vibrant botanical varieties, and the white peacocks strutting around add a regal touch to your photo collection.
Most travelers, like a reviewer who mentioned “being tossed around for the rest everything is ok”, will find the boat ride itself a bit bouncy — Lake Maggiore can be lively, especially on windy days. That said, the scenic views make the slight discomfort worth it. The boat’s hop-on/hop-off arrangement means you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming village, browse local shops, and soak in the stunning lake vistas.
The palace and gardens are the main draw, but you might also appreciate the shopping in the quaint village, which offers souvenirs and local products. Keep in mind that entry tickets are separate from the tour, so plan to allocate time and budget for that.
Planning more time in Stresa? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins at the main pier in Stresa, marked by a yellow and blue flag or with assistance from a tour representative. After boarding, you’ll enjoy a short boat ride across Lake Maggiore, with its picturesque views of surrounding mountains and shimmering water. The boat operates on a flexible schedule, so check the times in advance to coordinate with your sightseeing plans.
Once you arrive at Isola Bella, you’ll find the main attractions are the palace and gardens. The palace is a cultural treasure trove, with rooms full of artworks and historical furnishings, providing a peek into aristocratic life. The gardens are a multi-tiered landscape—each level offering different botanical varieties and a chance to spot the famous white peacocks.
You’re free to wander at your own pace, exploring the small shops and soaking in the scenery. The gardens spread across ten terraces, offering a beautiful backdrop for photos — especially the peacocks, which are a favorite for visitors.
As your time wraps up, you simply reboard the boat for the return trip to Stresa. Remember, the landing fee of 0.50 euros applies on-site, and the entry tickets to the palace and gardens are not included, so plan accordingly.
Authenticity and Value
This tour’s main appeal is its authenticity — you’re not just there for a quick snapshot but to experience the gardens, art, and architecture that make Isola Bella so special. For a modest price, it provides a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural highlights, and leisure time.
The guided aspect is minimal — you’ll primarily enjoy the self-guided exploration — but the stunning scenery and well-maintained gardens compensate for that. The friendly staff helps with boarding and provides basic information, but if you want detailed historical commentary, you’ll need to do some homework beforehand.
One review noted that “being tossed around for the rest everything is ok,” which hints that boat rides can sometimes be a bit bumpy. If you’re prone to seasickness or have young children, this might be worth considering. Still, the boat’s short duration keeps this from being a major issue.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Book in advance if possible, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred departure time.
- Check the schedule for the hop-on/hop-off timing — flexibility is a perk, but planning helps maximize your visit.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the gardens and village.
- Don’t forget to carry cash for the landing fee and any extra tickets.
- Consider bringing a camera — the views and peacocks are very photogenic.
- Weather matters: boat rides can be windy, so bring a light jacket or raincoat if forecast predicts rain.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to visit Isola Bella and enjoy its beautiful gardens and palace interiors at your own pace, this tour fits perfectly. It’s ideal for budget travelers, garden lovers, and those seeking authentic Italian ambience. It’s less suitable for visitors needing guided tours or with mobility challenges, as it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking and standing.
The Sum Up
This boat tour from Stresa to Isola Bella offers a cost-effective and scenic way to learn about the beauty of Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands. The stunning gardens, historic palace, and charming village make for a well-rounded experience that balances culture, nature, and leisure.
While the bumpy boat ride might not be for everyone, the flexibility to explore at your own pace, combined with the spectacular views and lush gardens, makes this a worthwhile choice for travelers who want a taste of Italy’s lakeside elegance without a hefty price tag.
For those craving authentic local flavor, beautiful scenery, and affordable adventure, this tour will serve as a memorable highlight of your visit to Lake Maggiore and the Piedmont region.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the boat ride and the gardens, but keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and standing. The experience is best suited for those who can handle a boat trip and wandering outdoor gardens.
How long does the boat ride last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s a short boat trip from Stresa to Isola Bella, allowing plenty of time for exploring once on the island.
Are tickets for the palace and gardens included?
No, the tour includes only the hop-on/hop-off boat ride. You’ll need to purchase separate tickets for entry to the palace and gardens.
What is the landing fee?
A small fee of 0.50 euros per island is payable on-site, which covers the landing.
Can I stay on the island as long as I want?
Yes, you can stay on Isola Bella for as long as you like within the tour’s schedule, making it flexible for your sightseeing plans.
Is the tour available year-round?
The tour is valid for one day and check availability for starting times. Specific seasonality isn’t mentioned, so verify before booking.
Does the tour provide a guided commentary?
No, it’s a self-guided experience, but the views and gardens themselves are the main attractions.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider that if accessibility is a concern.