Stresa is one of Italy’s most charming lakeside towns, and it’s the perfect launchpad for exploring Lake Maggiore’s stunning islands and scenic waters. The clear appeal here isn’t just the picturesque scenery, but the fact that boats are the best way to see the region’s highlights — the Borromean Islands, lush gardens, and palatial villas. Whether you want to hop between islands at your own pace or enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise, Stresa offers a wide variety of boat experiences. We especially like the 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour, which combines history, natural beauty, and flexibility.
Many of these tours give you access to famous sites like Isola Bella and Isola Madre, with some offering hop-on hop-off flexibility or full-day explorations. The best part? You’ll get a fresh perspective on this lakeside paradise—from the water, with panoramic views and a sense of serenity that land-based sightseeing just can’t match.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of boat tours and cruises that vary in length, price, and style. Some are shorter sunset cruises perfect for evening relaxation, while others offer full-day island-hopping adventures with multiple stops and free time. The Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour is ideal for those wanting an in-depth introduction to the islands, while the Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat suits travelers who prefer flexible, self-guided exploration. For a special experience, consider the Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise, which offers a romantic view as the sun dips behind the mountains. Each option provides a different way to enjoy Lake Maggiore’s beauty — read on for all the details.
1. Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour
This 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour is a top choice for travelers wanting to explore the full trio of Lake Maggiore’s most famous spots. For just $17 per person, you’ll spend a day discovering Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori, hopping freely between them on a quick, well-organized boat. The tour includes visits to the Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, famous for its grandiose baroque architecture and gardens, plus the lush botanical gardens of Isola Madre. You’ll also have time to shop at local craft stalls or enjoy a lakeside lunch in a traditional fishing village.
Guests love the flexibility to hop on and off as they please, making this a great choice for those who want to customize their day. The reviews highlight the convenience and beauty of this tour, with many raving about the speedy boats and the chance to see Italy at its best. The main critique is that some travelers wish there was a clearer timetable, but overall, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free exploration.
2. Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat
At number 2, this Hop-on Hop-off Boat is a great option for those who like flexibility. For just $14, you get a full day of cruising across Lake Maggiore with multiple stops at Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella. The tour allows you to explore each island at your own pace, whether you want to wander the narrow streets of the fishing village or tour the Palazzo Borromeo gardens. You can choose your departure times, with boats running roughly every 30 minutes, making it easy to adapt your day to your interests.
The tour is praised for its helpful staff and smooth boat service. Many visitors comment that this less crowded alternative to ferries provides a more intimate experience. While the price is modest, the real value lies in the freedom to customize your visit, combined with scenic views of the Alps and lakeside villas. It’s ideal for independent travelers who want to take their time.
Bottom Line: A flexible, budget-friendly way to enjoy the islands at your own pace.
3. Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip
This Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip offers a balanced tour at about $15 per person. It includes visits to Isola Madre, home to a historic botanical garden and peacocks, and Isola Bella, where the Borromeo Palace and terraces await. The tour provides a full view of the islands’ gardens and architecture, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
Guests note that the sailboats glide smoothly over Lake Maggiore, and the island gardens are a highlight. The reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful the gardens are, especially Isola Madre’s botanical collection. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with leisurely strolling around the gardens, with some shopping and photography included.
Bottom Line: Excellent for garden lovers and those eager for a relaxed, scenic day on the water.
4. Stresa: Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
This Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour is a budget-friendly $9, offering self-guided exploration of the most iconic island. It allows you to visit the Palace Museum and stroll through the beautiful Italian gardens at your own pace. The boat runs every 30 minutes, giving you plenty of flexibility.
Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore without rushing and the chance to take photos of the famous white peacocks. With a simple, straightforward itinerary, this tour suits independent travelers or those with limited time but a desire to see the highlight.
Bottom Line: An economical way to enjoy Isola Bella’s main attractions with flexible timing.
5. From Stresa: Isola Pescatori Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
This tour, priced at $10, takes you to Isola Pescatori with hop-on hop-off flexibility. You can explore the charming fishing village, enjoy seafood meals on lakeside terraces, and shop for local crafts. The boats run every 30 minutes, so you can tailor your day around your pace and interests.
Guests rave about the authentic local experience—walking the narrow streets of the island, sampling seafood, and taking in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed experience beyond the main sights.
Bottom Line: Great value for exploring a true lakeside fishing village at your own pace.
6. From Stresa: 2 Borromean Islands Hop-on Hop-off Boat
This option, at $14, covers Isola Madre and Isola Bella, with a flexible hop-on hop-off service. The itinerary allows you to visit the gardens of Isola Madre and the palace of Isola Bella, with short boat rides between. The audio commentary and scenic views make this a comfortable choice for those wanting a multifaceted experience.
Guests enjoy the ease of traversing between islands and the chance to capture stunning photos of the gardens and Alpine backdrop. It’s best suited for visitors on a time-limited schedule who still want to see the main sites.
Bottom Line: Good for those seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed island visit.
7. Stresa: Isola Madre and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
This premium hop-on hop-off experience for about $15 offers full day access to both islands. You will visit Isola Madre’s botanical gardens and the Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, with plenty of time to explore and photograph. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the islands’ beauty at their own pace, with breaks scheduled for lunch or shopping.
Reviews show a high level of satisfaction, especially with the variety of sights and the relaxing pace. It’s ideal for families, garden enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a comprehensive island experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a full, leisurely day exploring the main Borromean Islands.
8. Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
Another flexible option, this $14 tour includes visits to Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella. You can walk the streets, dine on fresh seafood, and tour the gardens and palaces at your leisure. The combination of cultural charm and scenic beauty makes this a top choice for independent explorers who want more than just a quick visit.
Guests love the easy navigation and informative commentary. It’s ideal for relaxing, unhurried days with a focus on local life.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers eager to experience local flavor and iconic sights on their own schedule.
9. Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise
For a romantic twist, this Sunset Cruise costing around $23 offers panoramic views of Lake Maggiore at dusk and the Borromean Islands’ silhouette against the setting sun. It lasts about an hour, making it a perfect evening activity.
People rave about the beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere—a special way to see the islands from a different perspective. It’s best suited for romantic couples or anyone wanting a memorable, scenic finish to a lakeside day.
Bottom Line: A lovely, intimate experience for sunset lovers and photographers.
10. Stresa: Isola Bella Boat Tour
This simple, economical Isola Bella Boat Tour at just $9 gets you up close to the most famous island. You can board from Stresa at your convenience and stay as long as you like visiting the palace and garden. It’s a straightforward way to see the island without booking a large or complex tour.
It’s a good option for budget travelers or those with only a few hours to spare. The reviews note the opportunity to photograph the white peacocks and enjoy the lush gardens.
Bottom Line: Best for quick, affordable visits to the iconic island.
11. Stresa: Boat Cruise around the Borromean Islands
This brief, 30-minute cruise (costing about $17) offers a quick scenic overview of the Borromean Islands, with commentary about the luxurious villas and gardens. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of the region without committing to a full-day tour.
Guests find it a relaxing, informative experience that offers nice views of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Pescatori. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to see the main sights from the water.
Bottom Line: A quick, scenic introduction for those in a hurry.
12. Lago Maggiore: 3 Borromean Islands Boat from Feriolo
Last but not least, this full-day cruise from Feriolo costs around $20 and lasts 7 hours. It’s the most comprehensive, allowing you to visit Isola Bella’s palace and gardens, stroll through fishermen’s villages on Isola dei Pescatori, and explore the botanical gardens of Isola Madre. Plus, you can swim in the lake or shop for local products.
Guests praise it as a full immersion experience, with ample free time to explore each island. It’s perfect for families or travelers wanting a detailed, relaxed day on Lake Maggiore.
Bottom Line: The best pick for those wanting a full, immersive island-hopping adventure.
$20 per person
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Stresa
Picking the right boat experience depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a comprehensive day with lots of sightseeing, the full-day boat from Feriolo or the multi-island full tour are excellent. For more relaxed, flexible explorations, the hop-on hop-off options and self-guided tours work well.
Budget-conscious travelers should consider the Isola Bella boat tour or the short cruise. The sunset cruise offers a romantic finish, especially if you enjoy photography and peaceful evenings.
Always check availability and book early, especially in peak season. Consider your fitness level and how much time you want to spend on each island—some tours offer ample free time, others are more guided.
Final Thoughts
Stresa’s boat tours cover everything from quick scenic rides to full-day island explorations. Two top picks are the 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour, renowned for its balance of guided visits and flexibility, and the full-day Feriolo cruise, which provides a comprehensive experience. If you’re seeking romance, the sunset cruise offers a magical view of Lake Maggiore at dusk.
Whatever your style, there’s a boat tour in Stresa that matches your interests and schedule. Remember to book early to secure your spot, especially during peak months, and dive into the lake’s tranquil waters for the best views of this beautiful corner of Italy.