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Lake Maggiore Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended Lake Maggiore Cruises & boat tours

Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise

1. Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise

Navigate the waters of Lake Maggiore with your group of family or friends on a sunset cruise from Stresa. Explore the Borromean Gulf admire the sights and scenery from the water as you pass by Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. The boat you use throughout this activity is suitable for small groups of people for parties or a romantic getaway with your partner. Larger groups can also be accommodated inside of the boat, protected from the weather while still being able to enjoy wide views of the lake through the boat's large windows and open terrace area. Finish off your cruise with a tour of the most famous Island, Isola Bella from the lake view. Sail around the Borromeo Palace and see the Italian gardens and terraces, where, if you are lucky, you will be able to see some white peacocks peeking out.

From Milan: Stresa, Alps, & Lake Maggiore Half Day Tour

2. From Milan: Stresa, Alps, & Lake Maggiore Half Day Tour

On the borders of Piedmont, Lombardy, and Switzerland, spectacular Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy and known for its incredible beauty. Your tour will take you from Milan to picturesque Stresa, on the western shores of Lake Maggiore. Stresa is a lovely town with beautiful villas and gardens, some of which are open to the public. With a comfortable climate, Stresa offers stunning lake views, and you can also take the cable car up to Monte Mottarone for views of the Alps and the lakes. Next, hop on board for a cruise on Lake Maggiore, and admire the stunning scenery as the boat takes you out to the Borromean Islands. You'll visit Isola Bella, or "beautiful island," just offshore from Stresa. On this rich historical island you'll visit the Palazzo Borromeo, an exquisite palace dating back to the 17th century. You'll also be able to explore the beautiful palace gardens.

Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise

3. Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise

Set sail on this Borromean Gulf cruise and admire the area’s sights and scenery from the water. Pass by Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Marvel at the Borromeo Palace. Leave from Stresa towards Isola Madre, famous for its gardens with tropical blooms and for its villa that will leave you speechless. After having made a complete tour around the island, head towards the fishing village of Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen's Island), the only island to be permanently inhabited all year round. Spot a set of ancient houses rich in history. Finish off your cruise with a tour of Isola Bella from the water. Sail around the Borromeo Palace and see the memorable gardens and terraces, where, if you are lucky, you will be able to see some white peacocks peeking out.

Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Isola Bella Private Boat Tour

4. Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Isola Bella Private Boat Tour

Explore Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore, and the surrounding area on this private taxi-boat tour. Discover all the mysteries and history of the Borromean Islands with a professional tour guide exclusive to your group. Start your excursion in Stresa Piazza Marconi either in the morning at 9:30 AM, or in the afternoon at 2:30 PM. Then set off on your customizable tour whose duration and timing will be at your discretion (about 2-4 hours). Stop at Isola Bella and take a guided tour of its architectural beauties with your knowledgeable guide. Stroll through the beautiful baroque gardens, and admire the wonderful views of the Borromean Gulf.

From Stresa/Baveno: Verbania Pallanza and Island boat Tour

5. From Stresa/Baveno: Verbania Pallanza and Island boat Tour

Leave Stresa behind and take a relaxing panoramic cruise around the Borromean Gulf, and make a stop in one of its most famous villas, Verbania Pallanaza. Cruise around the Borromean Gulf, famous all over the world for its unique admire some of the most characteristic epoch-style villas in the Verbano area and stop at one of the most famous villas in this area, Verbania Pallanza. Set sail for this tourist cruise admiring one of the most evocative views of Lake Maggiore, the Borromean Gulf, before disembarking in Verbania Pallanza. See a place where tourism and culture are more alive, from a village that looks like a balcony from which to enjoy splendid views of the lake, such as Villa Giulia or Villa Rusconi Clerici.See some of the most fascinating gardens and parks in Italy while in the area, whose splendor and perfect state of maintenance highlight the fabulous lake atmospheres.

Lake Maggiore: Boat Tour with Stresa Hotel Pickup / Drop-off

6. Lake Maggiore: Boat Tour with Stresa Hotel Pickup / Drop-off

Cruise Lake Maggiore in your own private boat, operated by a driver who will take you around the lake and the 3 Borromean Islands. Soak up the enchanting atmosphere of one of Italy's largest and most well-known lakes. Admire the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains and villages as you cruise. Choose the most suitable boat for your occasion, whether it be romantic or family-oriented. You can also opt for various tours or itineraries on your hour out on Lake Maggiore. Enjoy boating out to the Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori. You can also be taken to the coastal towns of Stresa, Verbania, and more.

Stresa: Half-Day Lake Maggiore Tour

7. Stresa: Half-Day Lake Maggiore Tour

On the borders of Piedmont, Lombardy, and Switzerland, the spectacular Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy, known for its incredible beauty. With a comfortable climate, Stresa offers stunning lake views, and you can also take a cable car up to Monte Mottarone for views of the Alps and the surrounding lakes. Hop on board for a cruise on Lake Maggiore and admire the stunning scenery, as your boat takes you out to the Borromean Islands. Afterwards, travel to the Isola Bella or "beautiful island," just offshore from Stresa. On this rich historical island, you will visit the Palazzo Borromeo (entrance to the palace not included), an exquisite palace dating back to the 17th century. You'll also be able to explore the beautiful palace gardens. Later on, you will have free time in the Isola dei Pescatori for lunch, before your return transfer to Stresa by boat.

From Stresa: Lake Maggiore Cruise & Santa Caterina del Sasso

8. From Stresa: Lake Maggiore Cruise & Santa Caterina del Sasso

Explore Lake Maggiore and the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso at your own pace with a private boat service from Stresa or Baveno. Admire the beautiful scenery and visit one of the most famous site on Lake Maggiore, Hermitage of santa caterina del sasso. Admire historical villas and get stunning panoramas on a scenic cruise from Stresa before landing on Hermitage. Enjoy a scenic and relaxing sightseeing cruise from Stresa town admiring the splendid villas of stresa (Villa Pallavino, Villa Bernocchi, Villa Excelsior Niobe ).Raised on the raw rock wall, on the "wild" Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, the hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is reflected in its deep waters. The tour includes departure from Stresa Piazza Marconi Imbarcadero, or upon request from other neighboring towns. We will reach the monastery of Santa Caterina del Sasso and observe the natural beauty of its position, between rock and lake, which is made even more picturesque by the three buildings that the composition and by the cycles present in the chapel dedicated to Santa Caterina and in the two internal churches, the Church of Santa Maria Nuova and San Nicola.

Lake Maggiore Discovery: Private Tour from Torino

9. Lake Maggiore Discovery: Private Tour from Torino

Get breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore, with the jaw-droppingly beautiful Borromean Islands and their spectacular gardens. Have a stroll in the charming village of Stresa, ride on a boat with your guide to admire the villas, fortresses, and castles along the lake’s shores. Discover stunning sceneries and an enriching historical-artistic legacy that render the Lake a truly magical place.

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What people are saying about Lake Maggiore

Overall rating

4.1 / 5

based on 61 reviews

Excellent formula. Our skipper Alessandro took great care of us, giving us valuable advice on both restaurants and visits. We had the boat to ourselves, a dream! We will be back as it was a magical day. Sylvia

I really liked the welcome of the staff, the comfort of the seats and above all the breathtaking view and obviously the unique moment experienced in that moment.

Excellent choice. The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable and the place was very beautiful.

We had a romantic trip with sparkling wine and various antipasti. A good start!

Great service, punctual, nice ride to the Borromean Islands