Stresa is a wonderful base for exploring Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands. Its charming lakeside setting makes it ideal for boat tours that combine scenic beauty with cultural highlights. Whether you’re after a quick hop to see the famous Palazzo Borromeo or want a leisurely day wandering charming fishing villages, Stresa offers a variety of options. Personally, I love the Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour for its excellent value and flexibility. Plus, the chance to hop freely between islands and enjoy lush gardens makes for a memorable day.
For those who prefer a more relaxed vibe, the Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat offers a chance to explore at your own pace, while the Sunset Cruise provides a romantic view of Lake Maggiore at dusk. Here, we’ll walk through the top options to help you choose the right adventure for your trip.
1. Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour
At number 1, this stunning boat tour takes you to all three Borromean Islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori—on a single day. For just $17 per person, you get the chance to visit Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, walk through its lavish gardens, and enjoy free hop-on hop-off flexibility between islands. The boat ride itself offers spectacular views of Lake Maggiore, and reviews praise the quick, convenient boats and the chance to explore each island at your own pace.
What makes this tour stand out is its affordability combined with the variety of experiences. Observers have appreciated the helpful crew and the chance to take your time on each island, making it perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the region’s crown jewels without breaking the bank. The only potential con: some reviews mention the timetable could be clearer, so planning ahead helps.
Bottom Line: This is a budget-friendly, flexible way to see all three iconic islands with access to gardens, palaces, and local shopping.
2. Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat
Ranked just slightly higher with a 4.6/5 rating, this hop-on hop-off boat offers a leisurely way to explore Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella for $14 per person. Starting from Stresa, it allows you to sail on Lake Maggiore and spend as much time as you like exploring the narrow streets of the fishing village or strolling through the exquisite Palazzo Borromeo gardens.
Guests love the frequent rotations—around every 30 minutes—so you can create your own schedule. The staff is helpful, and the experience provides a great mix of sightseeing and local flavor. The tour isn’t just about the sights; it’s about feeling like a local, sampling lakeside restaurants, and snapping photos of the famous white peacocks.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, affordable day on the lake with plenty of opportunities for spontaneous exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a relaxed day without the rush, with the option to customize your visit to these two iconic islands.
3. Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip
Ranking third, this boat trip for $15 per person offers a balanced experience for those interested in visiting Isola Madre’s botanical gardens and Isola Bella’s palace and terraces. It emphasizes the garden of Isola Madre, known for its ancient trees and peacocks, before sailing to the elegant Borromean Palace.
Guests praise the combination of natural beauty and elegant architecture, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a taste of both. The reviews note the serene gardens and the impressive palace, with opportunities for photography and shopping. The main highlight: the chance to see the white peacocks and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Maggiore.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for those who love gardens, history, and luxury architecture in one package.
4. Stresa: Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
The Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off Boat scores a 4.1/5 for its flexible schedule and affordability—just $9 per person. This tour focuses solely on Isola Bella, giving you free time to explore the palace, gardens, and shop at your own pace.
Guests appreciate the convenience of a boat service running every 30 minutes, which allows for spontaneous visits. The highlight is the chance to enjoy the Palazzo Borromeo at leisure, capturing photos of the famous white peacocks. The low price and the freedom to go at your own pace make this ideal for independent travelers and those on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy Isola Bella with maximum flexibility.
5. All-inclusive ticket for Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori
This all-inclusive ticket offers a full day of exploration, including entrance fees for museums and gardens, for about $25. It provides hop-on hop-off boat transportation between Stresa, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori, with departures every 30 minutes.
Guests love the ease of access to both islands and the chance to visit Palazzo Borromeo and the gardens on Isola Bella, plus free time on Fisherman’s Island. The ticket’s major advantage is the seamless entry to attractions and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive experience and don’t mind paying a bit more for convenience and inclusions.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for those who want to combine boat travel with entry tickets for a hassle-free day.
6. From Stresa: Isola Pescatori Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
This isola Pescatori-focused tour is great at just $10 per person. It allows you to explore the fishing village of Isola Pescatori at your leisure, with the freedom to hop on or off the boat as you please.
Guests most enjoy wandering the narrow streets, discovering local crafts, and sampling seafood at lakeside restaurants. The tour is also flexible, with boats running approximately every 30 minutes. If you’re craving authentic lakeside life and want to avoid crowds, this is a wonderful choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to enjoy a traditional fishing village, with the convenience of scheduled boat rides.
7. From Stresa: 2 Borromean Islands Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
This 2-island tour combines Isola Madre and Isola Bella for $14 per person. It features frequent departures, allowing you to enjoy the gardens and palaces at a relaxed pace.
Guests love the opportunity to see both islands’ highlights, such as the gardens of Isola Madre and the Italian terraces of Isola Bella. The review mentions the fantastic views and a good balance of sightseeing and leisure. It’s suited for travelers who want a focused exploration of the two most famous islands.
Bottom Line: A great pick for a streamlined, efficient day on Lake Maggiore’s most renowned islands.
8. Stresa: Isola Madre and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
Ranking high with a 4.8/5 rating, this dual-island tour for $15 offers maximum flexibility. You can explore both islands at your own pace, visiting Isola Madre’s botanical gardens with rare plants or the palaces and shops of Isola Bella.
It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate having control over their schedule and want to enjoy the best of both worlds. Reviewers highlight the variety of plant species and the beautiful scenery, making it an excellent value for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a personalized journey combining natural beauty and cultural sights.
9. Ticket for Isola Bella All-Inclusive
This all-inclusive ticket offers the ultimate hassle-free experience for just about $20. It includes transportation and entry to Palazzo Borromeo and its gardens, allowing you to wander freely and enjoy the baroque elegance at your own pace.
Guests appreciate the smooth process and the opportunity to visit both the palace and gardens without additional costs. It’s suitable for travelers who value convenience and want to avoid ticket lines.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors seeking a seamless, comprehensive day on Isola Bella with no surprises.
10. Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
This combined tour for $14 offers similar flexibility, allowing you to explore both islands at your own pace. Guests rave about the local crafts, seafood, and the scenic boat ride, with the opportunity to create a personalized schedule.
It is perfect for those who want to mix sightseeing with authentic lakeside dining and shopping. The boat runs every 30 minutes, providing ample opportunity for spontaneous visits.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a relaxed, flexible day combining nature, culture, and cuisine.
11. Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise
The Sunset Cruise, rated 4/5, is a one-hour journey that offers a different view of Lake Maggiore as the sun dips below the horizon. Priced at about $23, it’s perfect for romantic evenings or stunning photos, with panoramic views of the Borromean Islands and surrounding scenery.
Travelers enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the scenic drive around Isola Bella, especially during the golden hour. It’s best suited for couples or those looking for a memorable, relaxed experience after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic, scenic ending to your Lake Maggiore visit.
12. Stresa: Isola Bella Boat Tour
This short boat tour for $9 per person offers a quick glimpse of Isola Bella. You can board from Stresa and stay as long as you like on the island itself, exploring the palace, gardens, and capturing photos of the white peacocks.
Guests appreciate the affordability and flexibility, making it a great addition to a day of sightseeing. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to experience the island’s beauty firsthand.
Bottom Line: A simple, budget-friendly option to see the most famous island of Lake Maggiore.
13. Stresa: Boat Cruise around the Borromean Islands
This 30-minute cruise for $17 offers a quick, scenic overview of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Pescatori, with narration from your captain. It’s perfect for those who want a brief but scenic experience of the Borromean Gulf.
Guests enjoy the relaxing ride and the chance to learn about the islands from an informed captain, making it a good option for a quick introduction or to see the sights from the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a short, scenic overview of the Borromean Islands.
14. Stresa: Alpyland Alpine Coaster Ride on Mount Mottarone
Ranking 3.8/5, this Alpyland Alpine Coaster costs only $7 and offers a fun break from boat tours. You control your speed on a 1200-meter-long track with stunning views of the Alps and lakes.
It’s perfect for families or thrill-seekers wanting a quick adrenaline rush, with a scenic backdrop. Reviewers call it “awesome,” and it’s accessible year-round, adding a different flavor depending on the season.
Bottom Line: Fun, inexpensive activity with breathtaking scenery, suitable for all ages from 4 and up.
$7 per person
15. Lago Maggiore: 3 Borromean Islands Boat from Feriolo
This 7-hour cruise from Feriolo offers a full-day experience for $20. It features visits to the Borromeo Palace, fishermen’s village, and Isola Madre’s botanical gardens.
Guests enjoy the in-depth exploration combined with free time to shop or relax. It’s suitable for travelers with a full day to spare who want a rundown of the region’s top sights.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting an immersive, longer experience on Lake Maggiore.
$20 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Stresa
Picking the perfect tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you want a comprehensive adventure, the Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Boat Tour offers great value and flexibility. For a more relaxed, independent experience, consider the Isola Bella Hop-on Hop-off or dual-island options. Budget travelers will appreciate the shorter, cheaper options like the Isola Bella Boat Tour.
Those seeking a romantic finish can opt for the Sunset Cruise, which offers a peaceful way to end your day. And if adventure is your thing, don’t miss the Alpyland Alpine Coaster, for a thrilling view of the Alps.
Final Thoughts
The options in Stresa are diverse—from quick boat rides to immersive island explorations—catering to all travel styles. If your time is limited, the 2 Island Hop-on Hop-off provides a balanced taste of the region. For a special occasion, the Sunset Cruise adds a magical touch. Families and casual travelers will find the Alpyland Alpine Coaster unexpectedly fun.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking early, especially during peak summer months. No matter which tour you choose, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience on Lake Maggiore’s stunning shores.