The Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore are a highlight of northern Italy’s scenery and culture. They’re perfect for exploring by boat, with each island offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re interested in exploring grand palaces, lush gardens, or simply soaking in the lakeside views, these islands provide a rich variety of experiences. We especially love how flexible some tours are—like the Lake Maggiore: Borromean Islands Tickets with Boat Transfer—which let you decide how many islands you want to visit and explore at your own pace. This tour’s hop-on hop-off style makes it easy to customize your day without feeling rushed, perfect for those who want a relaxed yet scenic experience.
For those who prefer a more fixed adventure, the Isola Bella and Isola Madre entry tickets are excellent options. They offer a deep dive into the enchanting palaces and gardens that make these islands so special. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy stunning views, fascinating history, and plenty of photo opportunities. Now, let’s look at each of these top tours in detail.
1. Lake Maggiore: Borromean Islands Tickets with Boat Transfer
At number one, this hop-on hop-off boat transfer covers up to three islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori—depending on what you select. For around $75.90 per person, you get a flexible day on the water that includes a scenic boat ride across Lake Maggiore, known for its mountain views and shimmering waters. The boat shuttle departs from Stresa, making it both convenient and accessible for visitors staying nearby.
What sets this tour apart is the freedom it offers. You can hop off at each island and explore at your own speed, fitting in visits to the Borromeo Palace and gardens on Isola Bella, or wandering the charming streets of Isola dei Pescatori. Passengers love that the scenic sailing and panoramic views are central to the experience, with a chance to appreciate the Baroque architecture and lush gardens. The inclusion of a return boat transfer makes navigation hassle-free, especially if you want a relaxed day without worrying about schedules.
Good for: Travelers who want the flexibility to choose how many islands to visit and enjoy a scenic, leisurely day. The reviews, with a 4.2/5 rating from 136 reviews, indicate solid value and enjoyable experience, though some wish for more detailed commentary on the islands.
Bottom line: It’s a flexible, scenic, and convenient way to see the islands with the option to tailor your visit.
2. Borromean Islands: Isola Bella Open-Date Entry Ticket
Ranking second is the Isola Bella open-date ticket, which grants access to the island’s stunning Baroque palace and its famously terraced gardens. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 3 reviews, this ticket is ideal for visitors who want an in-depth experience of the island’s magnificent architecture and lush landscapes.
Once inside, you’ll marvel at the Palazzo Borromeo with its ornate rooms and historic art collections. The gardens feature vibrant blooms, fountains, and sweeping views of Lake Maggiore—a truly romantic setting. The tour is best suited for those interested in art, history, and architecture, with the added bonus of strolling through boutique-lined alleys in the island’s small village. Guests have called it “a must-see” for its beauty and serenity.
At about the same price as the boat tour, this ticket is excellent value if you’re particularly keen on exploring Isola Bella’s rich Baroque elegance at your own pace. It’s perfect for a half-day visit, especially if you prefer a more curated, immersive experience.
Bottom line: A top pick for lovers of architecture and gardens, offering the freedom to explore without a guided rush.
3. Borromean Islands: Isola Madre Open-Date Entry Ticket
Number three on our list is the Isola Madre open-date ticket. This island is a botanical paradise, perfect for those who love plants, flowers, and tranquil walks. Also rated 5/5, it offers visitors the chance to visit the Palazzo Borromeo and its exotic gardens full of rare and subtropical plants.
Walking through the Viale Africa and exploring the gardens, you’ll encounter vibrant blooms, fragrant herbs, and unusual trees from around the world. The botanical gardens are the star here, with many visitors describing it as “a lush, relaxing escape.” Inside the palace, you’ll find centuries of history, with elegant rooms and period furniture.
This ticket is comparable in price to the others but offers a different flavor—more nature-focused and leisurely. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine history with outdoor serenity, all with lake views in the background. The reviews highlight how peaceful and beautiful the gardens are, making it a favorite for those seeking a relaxing, picturesque experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for garden lovers and those wanting a calm, scenic visit in a historic setting.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you prefer a flexible day exploring multiple islands, the Lake Maggiore boat pass is perfect, especially if you want to decide on the spot how many islands to see. For a focused visit, both the Isola Bella and Isola Madre entry tickets offer in-depth experiences—Isola Bella for architecture and gardens, and Isola Madre for lush plant life.
Think about how much walking you like—Isola Bella involves some uphill walk around the palace gardens, while Isola Madre offers peaceful garden strolls. The boat tour is more about scenery and relaxing on the water. Booking early is advised in high season, especially for the entry tickets, which are popular among visitors.
Final Thoughts
The Borromean Islands are a stunning showcase of lakeside elegance and lush nature. The boat transfer offers the most flexibility, ideal for those who want to see multiple islands at their own pace. The entry tickets for Isola Bella and Isola Madre are best suited for travelers with specific interests in art, architecture, or gardens.
For a quick, scenic day, the boat hop-on hop-off is a good choice. For a more immersive experience, the dedicated island tickets let you explore in detail. No matter what, these islands are worth planning an early trip—once you’re there, you’ll see why they’re such a treasured part of Italy’s lakeside scenery.
Happy planning, and don’t forget to book your tickets early—these popular tours fill up fast during the summer months.