The three Borromean Islands with a private tour guide

This experience made our article of 15 Top-Rated Lake Maggiore Tours.

Experience the Charm of Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands with a Private Guide

Imagine a day spent cruising across the peaceful waters of Lake Maggiore, visiting not just one, but all three of the iconic Borromean Islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori—with your own dedicated guide. For around $463 per group (up to 15 people), this private tour lasts roughly 6 to 8 hours, making it a manageable yet deeply rewarding experience. What sets this tour apart is the personalized attention from your guide, ensuring you get a tailored glimpse into each island’s unique character, from lavish villas to bustling fishing villages.

Two things we particularly love: First, the flexibility of the private boat transfer, allowing you to hop smoothly from island to island without fighting crowds or waiting in line—something that can really enhance your experience. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Giulia and Julia, who bring the islands’ stories to life with engaging commentary and local tips.

A possible consideration is the entrance fees—around 36 euros per person—which are not included in the tour price, and the additional boat costs. If you’re traveling with a larger group, radio guides are mandatory at 3 euros per person, adding a small extra cost but helping everyone stay connected during the day. This tour suits travelers who value customized experiences and want to absorb the islands’ history and beauty at their own pace.

If you’re a history buff, garden lover, or someone eager for authentic local experiences, this private tour offers a well-rounded and intimate way to explore Lake Maggiore’s treasures. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights and the comfort of private transportation, making it a fantastic way to avoid the hassle of public ferries and crowded tours.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience tailored to your group’s pace and interests
• Visit all three islands in one day, including villas, gardens, and quaint villages
• Round-trip boat transfers provide flexibility and comfort
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the islands’ history, architecture, and flora
• Cost includes lunch on Fisherman’s Island, but entry fees and optional boat upgrades are extra
• Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and informative day out

A Deep Dive Into the Borromean Islands Tour

What’s the core of this experience?

This private tour offers a full day of exploring Lake Maggiore’s most famed sights—the three Borromean Islands—with your own guide and boat. The tour is designed to balance sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, making it suitable whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group up to 15 people.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Piazzale Lido in Stresa at 9:30 am, where you meet your guide, likely Giulia Ferrari based on reviews, who will accompany you through the day. The group departs promptly, ensuring you maximize your time on the water and on land.

You’ll enjoy round-trip boat transfers from Stresa, which is the perfect way to soak up the scenery and avoid the hassle of navigating between islands on your own. The boat ride itself is part of the charm—cruising past lush islands, spotting historic villas, and feeling the breeze.

Visiting Isola Bella

Your first stop is Isola Bella, home to the famous Baroque palace and dramatic Italian-style gardens. The palace’s terraces ascend over ten levels, offering stunning views and a glimpse into aristocratic life. While the admission ticket isn’t included, your guide will bring the history and design of the villa to life, making the fee well worth it.

What travelers love: “Julia was excellent. Very informative and helpful,” one reviewer said. The guided visit allows you to appreciate the meticulous landscaping and architecture that make this island a must-see. Expect about two hours here.

Exploring Isola dei Pescatori

Next, you’ll hop over to Isola dei Pescatori, the only inhabited island of the three. This tiny village is a picture-perfect scene of narrow lanes, traditional two-story houses, and long balconies used for drying fish. The local economy still revolves around fishing and tourism, giving you a real taste of authentic island life.

Lunch on Fisherman’s Island is included in the tour, and we recommend taking this opportunity to enjoy fresh lake fish at a local eatery—your guide can point you to a good spot. The relaxed pace here allows about two hours to wander, photograph, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Authentic insight: “The ancient village with its narrow lanes and balconies was incredibly charming,” notes another reviewer. This stop is perfect for those who want a taste of local life away from the more ostentatious villas.

Discovering Isola Madre

Your final stop is Isola Madre, the largest of the trio, with a 16th-century palace and a botanical garden filled with tropical plants, peacocks, and pheasants. The garden’s lushness is a stark contrast to the rocky landscapes of the other islands, offering a tranquil escape and a photographer’s dream.

While the entrance fee isn’t included, many find the garden stroll and the view of the lake from here to be the perfect way to end your day. Expect about two hours on this island, where your guide will point out rare plants and historical tidbits.

The Value of a Private Tour

Compared to public ferries, using a private boat means you’re not tied to a schedule or crowded vessels. You can customize your pace, linger longer if a particular spot sparks your interest, or take a quick look if you’re pressed for time.

Reviews highlight the importance of knowledgeable guides. “Giulia Ferrari brought the islands to life for us,” says a traveler, emphasizing how much more meaningful the experience becomes when you understand the history, architecture, and flora.

Additional Costs and Considerations

The tour price covers the guide and lunch but not the entry tickets (36 euros per person) or boat fees (about 16.50 euros per person for shared boats, or 250 euros for a private boat for fewer than 10 people). For larger groups, radio guides are required, adding just a few euros per person but ensuring everyone can hear the guide clearly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, flexible, and guided exploration of the islands without the stress of coordinating transport and tickets themselves. It suits history buffs, garden lovers, and travelers who appreciate local stories, as the guide’s insights elevate the visit far beyond a simple sightseeing trip.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of the Borromean Islands offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of Lake Maggiore with the comfort of a private guide and boat. The customized experience allows you to focus on what interests you most—whether that’s the majestic villas, lush gardens, or the charm of a small fishing village.

The value lies not just in the sights but in the personalized attention and the ease of moving between islands without crowds or waiting. It’s a well-rounded day for travelers who want authentic insights, leisure, and a sense of intimacy with one of Italy’s most beautiful lake destinations.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative, and scenic escape that emphasizes quality over quantity, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer guided stories and local tips to wandering independently, or for couples and small groups eager for a memorable, hassle-free experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to Stresa in the late afternoon.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entrance to Isola Bella and Isola Madre costs about 36 euros per person, which is paid separately.

What about boat transportation?
Boat fares are not included in the main price—shared boats cost around 16.50 euros per person, while a private boat for fewer than 10 people is about 250 euros for the group.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private nature makes it flexible for family needs. However, check for any mobility limitations if relevant.

How personalized is the experience?
Very. With a private guide and boat, you can tailor the pace and focus of your visit, making for a more intimate experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your preferred date and guide, especially during peak seasons. Confirmations are given within 48 hours based on availability.