MILAN
The Milan classics, and the best way to do each.
The 15 most popular lake maggiore tours for visitors to Milan. The ones worth building a morning or a day around, with prices, running times and who you book through.
Hop-on hop-off boats from Stresa to Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Flexible island time and great views.
Most Popular“Great way to see the Barromean Islands. The boats ran every ~30 minutes, so we never had to wait long, and there was always space for all the passengers.”
Hop on and off ferries from Stresa to Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella, with flexible island time on Lake Maggiore.
“Islands were are great. Boat was comfortable and somewhat crowded but that is to be expected. We all enjoyed visiting the islands. The boat personnel were all very helpful.”
Milan to Lake Maggiore by coach and boat, with Stresa time and two Borromean Islands plus Isola Bella’s palace gardens.
“A beautiful glimpse into the Italian countryside. Only 90 minutes from Milan it’s like entering a different universe. So much natural beauty on all the islands and shore. Also the perfect time for a day trip, not too long or short”
Private 5-hour Borromean Islands tour from Stresa with Micaela, boat ride, and guided visits to Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Bella, and Isola Madre.
“The trip was fantastic. The guide Michela (sp?) was very personable and knowledgeable. Spend the extra money on the private boat. This was the highlight of our time in Stresa.”
Private guided boat tour on Lake Maggiore to the Borromeo Islands, with skip-the-line pier access, Isola Bella palace, and Isola Pescatori village.
“We were so impressed from the beginning to the end of our tour. I don’t usually book things online, especially in a foreign country, not being very proficient in using my phone to do things. I found the whole experience very professional from where to meet to taking us back to the same spot. Micaela…”
2-hour vineyard tasting in Domodossola: 3 Ossola wines with local bread, cheeses, and meats plus panoramic Alps views. Mobile ticket, English.
“Wonderful wines , relaxing atmosphere, friendly host. You feel like sitting at your own backyard and listening The interesting story of Ossola wineyard.”
Private Lake Orta tour with Micaela: medieval Orta San Giulio walk, boat to Isola di San Giulio, English guide, 2 hours.
“Our tour guide, Micaela was filled with interesting facts and her knowledge of history was deep. She made the experience so worthwhile!”
Hop-on, hop-off ferries from Stresa to Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore. Flexible stops every 30 minutes with palace option.
“Very well organized service.Boat is small and comfortable.the island is beautiful.Worth to go!”
Stroll Cannobio’s old streets to S. Vittore and the Sanctuary of S. Pietà, then enjoy an aperitif by Lake Maggiore.
“De gids bedoelde het vast goed, maar een groep zowel in het Duits als in het Engels begeleiden ging haar niet heel goed af. Zo werd het een onsamenhangend verhaal. Ik verwacht van een gids wat meer bevlogenheid of passie voor wat hij verteld. Maar deze mevrouw zocht steeds naar woorden zodat het niet zo…”
Hop-on hop-off ferries from Stresa to Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore. Flexible times, onboard commentary, local fees.
“Islands are great but the "promised" English speaking narration on the boats does not exist. No directions, highlights, things to see. Better to take the regular ferry and less expensive.”
Private Cesarina cooking class in Stresa: cook pasta and dessert at home, enjoy local wine, take real skills. English. 4 hours.
“Rare, authentic, and precious opportunity to cook with and learn from the lovely Gisela. Incredible food and even better company. Overall, a truly wonderful, intimate experience.”
Private lake Orta day trip from Stresa, Baveno or Verbania: Sacro Monte UNESCO, medieval Orta San Giulio, optional Isola San Giulio boat.
“Davide provided a wonderful service and went beyond expectations. His local knowledge was interesting. His driving excellent and a very comfortable vehicle. We would highly recommend Davide for any tour. It was a great day out. Thank you. Christine and Adrienne.”
Private hop-on boat from Stresa to Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella with flexible timing on Lake Maggiore.
“Avoid this trip!!!!- Don't book this private tour with Viator. They don't give you any info on the meeting place, it simply says meet at the drop off and pick up locations. There someone who barely speaks English will put you on a ferry boat with 30-40 people. When you try to reach Viator help…”
Private Orta San Giulio tour with Giulia Ferrari: Piazza Motta, San Giulio island basilica, Romanesque church details, and guided viewpoints.
“Giulia was fabulous. She brought us around the village and the island and was so knowledgeable about the area. We had a great afternoon with her.”
A private guide helps you tour all three Borromean Islands in one day from Stresa, with boat transfers and time to enjoy gardens.
“Private Boat is an advantage tour guide was extremely knowledgeable on all aspects of trip including her knowledge of plants. Her recommendations for places to eat and she was very conscious of our various mobility issues.”
From the Duomo to the lakes, and every way to see them.
