Lake Maggiore isn’t just a pretty face; it offers some of Italy’s most memorable experiences, especially for those who love a good boat ride, lush gardens, or a personalized touch. We’re especially fond of the Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour because it combines flexibility, scenic beauty, and affordability—all for around $17 per person. The ease of hopping between islands like Isola Madre, Pescatori, and Bella, with plenty of time to explore their gardens and palaces, makes it a fantastic choice for anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights. Plus, the reviews highlight its reliability, with boat arrivals on schedule and the gardens well-maintained, ensuring a smooth experience.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, the Private Tour of Borromean Islands with Micaela Guide offers the chance to explore in style with a personal guide for about $438.58 per group. It’s perfect if you want to learn about the Borromeo family, their stunning palaces, and gardens without the crowds, thanks to the private boat and tailored itinerary. Or, if you’re after a sunset moment, Micaela’s Private Sunset Cruise provides a relaxed, romantic way to take in the lake’s beauty as the day winds down.
1. Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
Explore Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands at your own pace with this 1-day hop-on hop-off boat tour from Stresa. At just $17 per person, it’s an incredible value for a flexible, scenic way to visit Isola Madre with its renowned botanical gardens, Isola Bella with its baroque palace, and Isola dei Pescatori with its charming fishing village. The itinerary includes short speedboat rides between islands, giving you time to wander, enjoy a lakeside lunch, or soak up the atmosphere at each stop. The reviews praise its punctuality and ease of use, making it a dependable way to explore without the hassle of arranging multiple tickets. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want to see the best of Lake Maggiore in one day.
Bottom line: If you want an affordable, flexible, and scenic introduction to the Borromean Islands, this hop-on hop-off tour offers great value and good reviews, especially for independent explorers.
2. Private Tour of Borromean Islands with Micaela Guide
Discover the Borromean Islands with a personal guide on a custom 5-hour private tour. For around $438.58 per group, you’ll enjoy tailored visits to Isola Madre, with its lush botanical gardens, and Isola Bella, home to the impressive baroque palace and gardens. The tour includes a private boat from Stresa, giving you the freedom to move at your pace and learn about the House of Borromeo from a knowledgeable guide. Reviewers love the personal touch and detailed storytelling, noting that the guide’s knowledge brought the islands’ history and architecture vividly to life.
This tour appeals most to travelers who prefer a more personal experience and want to avoid the busy crowds. The private boat is a significant bonus, allowing you to create your ideal schedule and enjoy the islands without feeling rushed. Admission tickets aren’t included, so plan to book those separately if you want to tour the palace or gardens.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a private, relaxed day exploring the iconic Lake Maggiore islands with expert guidance.
3. Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore’s Borromeo Islands
Visit Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands with your own private guide and boat, ideal if you seek a tailored experience without the crowds. The 3- to 5-hour tour includes a visit to Isola Bella with its baroque palace, and the quaint Isola dei Pescatori. You can also upgrade to include Isola Madre with its exotic gardens—perfect if botanical exploration is your thing. The private boat ensures top flexibility, and your guide will share insights about the Borromeo family and local history.
Guests rave about the seamless service and personalized attention—one reviewer noted how the private boat makes all the difference, especially in avoiding long lines. The tour duration is flexible, and you can choose which islands to focus on.
Bottom line: If you prefer an exclusive experience with a private guide and boat, this tour offers privacy, flexibility, and a deep dive into the islands’ stories.
4. Private Tour of Orta San Giulio on Lake Orta with Micaela
Spend a relaxed morning or afternoon on Lake Orta with a private guide exploring Orta San Giulio and Isola di San Giulio. For around $277.26, the tour includes walking the medieval streets of Orta, then taking a short boat ride to the island, home to a Romanesque basilica. You can stay on the island or return with your guide for more insight into this peaceful, less touristy side of Lake Maggiore.
The guide’s knowledge makes the history of the area come alive, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated the guide’s deep understanding and engaging storytelling.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a half-day, personalized experience of Lake Orta’s quiet charm and historic sights, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
5. Unique Lake Maggiore Day Trip from Milan
This full-day excursion takes you from Milan into the Lake Maggiore region, including Stresa, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. For about $114.95, you’ll enjoy a scenic lake cruise, explore lakeside villages, and visit the historic Borromeo Palace. The tour is perfect for a quick escape from the city, offering a taste of Italy’s famous lake district with included lake cruise and visits to the main islands.
While the reviews highlight the natural beauty and smooth logistics, some mention that weather can affect the experience. The tour is suited for travelers with a day free from other commitments and a sense of adventure.
Bottom line: A solid choice for a full-day trip if you’re based in Milan and want to see the highlights of Lake Maggiore with minimal planning.
6. Savor Ossola Wines & Local Treats in a Scenic Vineyard
For an authentic taste of northern Piedmont’s secret wine region, this wine tasting tour at a family-run vineyard offers three Ossola DOC wines paired with local cheeses and cured meats. At around $39.13 for 2 hours, it’s a fantastic value for those interested in regional specialties and stunning mountain views. You can wander the vineyards and cellar at your own pace, making it a relaxed, intimate experience.
Guests praise the friendliness of the hosts and the opportunity to sample wines not available elsewhere. The tasting is casual but informative, perfect for wine enthusiasts or those wanting a peaceful break from sightseeing.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine lovers seeking a small-group experience with authentic local flavors and scenic vineyard views.
7. Discover Lake Orta – Private Tours from Stresa, Baveno, Verbania
Enjoy a personalized day exploring Lake Orta with this private tour from key towns like Stresa, Baveno, or Verbania. For about $546.91, up to 4 people receive private transportation and an expert guide who can customize the itinerary to your interests. Whether you want to explore Orta San Giulio or other hidden corners, this flexible tour fits your schedule.
Reviews highlight the convenience of private transportation and the ability to tailor the day’s activities, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a bespoke experience.
Bottom line: For those wanting a curated Lake Orta experience with personalized attention, this option offers ease and flexibility.
8. The three Borromean Islands with a private tour guide
Visit all three Borromean Islands in one day with a private guide and boat, perfect for those who want an in-depth, stress-free experience. For about $462.86 per group, the tour covers Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. The itinerary includes exploring the Baroque palace, exotic gardens, and fishing village. Guests appreciate the flexibility of round-trip boat transfers and the ability to choose which islands to visit in detail.
Reviewers note that it’s a “great way to see all three islands comfortably” and that the private guide enriches the visit with stories and insights.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, in-depth, private experience of all three main islands with the convenience of a dedicated guide.
9. Stresa: 1-Day 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
This is the classic, budget-friendly way to explore Lake Maggiore’s famous islands with a $17.35 ticket. The hop-on hop-off ferry allows you to visit Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori at your own pace, with boats running regularly. The itinerary includes visits to botanical gardens and palaces, and the reviews mention how easy it is to use and how beautiful the scenery is.
It’s ideal for travelers who want flexibility and a low-cost entry into the lakeside scenery, though it’s less personalized than private options.
Bottom line: A dependable, economical choice for independent travelers eager to see the main islands without breaking the bank.
10. Malpensa Lake Orta Private Taxi Transfer with David
If your flight arrives at Milan Malpensa Airport, this private taxi transfer to Lake Orta (or vice versa) simplifies your logistics. For $547, a driver will meet you at the airport, making the transfer smooth and straightforward. It’s perfect for travelers who want to start or end their trip without fuss, especially if arriving with luggage or wanting to maximize their sightseeing time.
Reviewers describe the service as “very professional,” making it a reliable first or last step in your Lake Maggiore journey.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for seamless transportation, especially if you prefer door-to-door service over taxis or public transit.
11. Isola Bella Fishermen’s Island Private Tour with Micaela
Dive into two of Lake Maggiore’s most iconic islands with this private tour. For $314.15, you’ll visit Isola Bella with its famous palace, as well as Isola dei Pescatori, with its traditional fishing village. The personalized guide ensures you see the highlights at your own pace, and guests praise how engaging and knowledgeable the guide is. The tour includes a guided visit to Isola Bella‘s palace and relaxes on Pescatori’s quaint streets.
This experience works well for those who want a deep, private exploration without the crowds, with enough time to appreciate each location.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personal touch and a more leisurely exploration of two iconic islands.
12. The romantic village of Orta San Giulio with a tour guide
Enjoy a romantic and scenic visit to Orta San Giulio, with a private guide leading you through cobbled streets, picturesque squares, and the San Giulio island basilica. For about $282.34, the 3-4 hour tour helps you discover the town’s charming architecture and viewpoints, with optional boat crossing at your expense. Reviewers mention how the guide’s insights made the experience more meaningful, especially in highlighting the town’s atmosphere.
Ideal for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed, picturesque experience of Lake Orta.
Bottom line: If you seek an intimate, guided walk through a beautiful Piedmont village, this tour offers a perfect blend of scenery and storytelling.
13. Visit and tasting of 3 D.O.C.wines Fontechiara
Taste three excellent D.O.C. wines at a family-owned Fontechiara winery for just $57.62. The 2-hour visit includes a tour of the cellar and a tasting of wines paired with cheeses, ham, and pizza. Many reviewers highlight the warm hospitality and authentic local products, making this an enjoyable and tasty break from sightseeing. It’s perfect if you want to explore regionally renowned wines amidst a relaxed, rustic setting.
Suitable for wine lovers looking for an authentic experience and a chance to meet the winemakers directly.
Bottom line: A top choice for wine enthusiasts who want a genuine, intimate tasting experience with great food pairings.
14. Visit and tasting of 4 D.O.C.wines Fontechiara
Expand your palate with four D.O.C. wines at Fontechiara for about $69.14. This 2-hour tour involves a visit to the cellar and sampling wines alongside local appetizers. Reviewers mention the attentive staff and the quality of the wines, though some note it’s less special than other vineyard experiences. A good option if you want a broader tasting but are less focused on rarity.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a slightly longer tasting with more variety, especially if paired with local bites.
15. Micaela’s exclusive private sunset cruise on Lake Maggiore
End your day with a private sunset cruise led by Micaela. For $235.17, you’ll enjoy an hour on the water admiring historic villas, lush gardens, and the surrounding mountains as the sun dips. It’s an elegant, quiet way to soak in Lake Maggiore’s beauty, with prosecco and plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers love the intimate atmosphere and the guide’s commentary that adds context to the scenery.
Ideal for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, memorable experience during golden hour.
Bottom line: Perfect for a romantic, relaxed way to conclude your visit, especially if you’re after a private, scenic moment.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting from these options, consider your budget, time available, and your interests. Want a basic, affordable introduction? The Stresa hop-on hop-off is perfect. For a more personalized experience, the private tours with Micaela (Borromean Islands) or Orta San Giulio make sense.
If wine tasting is your thing, the Ossola vineyard offers local flavors, while luxury sunset cruises (Micaela’s Sunset Cruise) are great for special occasions. Consider the full-day trips from Milan if you’re based elsewhere and want a comprehensive taste of the region.
Final Thoughts
Lake Maggiore offers a diverse array of tours—from budget-friendly boat rides to private guided explorations and wine tastings, fitting a variety of interests and budgets. For a quick, scenic overview, the hop-on hop-off boats are unbeatable. For those craving a deeper understanding or a more private experience, the private tours with expert guides really shine. And if you’re seeking a romantic moment, the sunset cruise is hard to beat.
Remember to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out. Whether you’re an independent traveler, a couple on a romantic trip, or a family seeking laid-back fun, Lake Maggiore’s tours promise a memorable slice of Italy’s lakeside charm.