Top Things to do in Lake Maggiore
10 Private Tours in Lake Maggiore That You Shouldn't Miss
On the south side of the Alps, Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy. Since the climate is mild year-round, the area is filled with Mediterranean vegetation and exotic plants. Lake Maggiore was featured in Ernest Hemingway's infamous novel, A Farewell to Arms, when the protagonist and his lover must row across the lake in order to escape the Italian Carabinieri (think police in military uniforms). Here's hoping you won't have any run-ins of that nature.
Restaurants in Lake Maggiore
1. Walking tour with a private tour guide in the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
The gardens of Villa Taranto in Verbania, between Intra and Pallanza, are known the world over for their great beauty and the huge number of plant species they contain. The result of a labour of love on the part of the Scottish Captain McEacharn in 1931, the myriad of colours and scents the marvellously landscaped garden offers continues to enchant visitors from March to October. From spring to autumn there are always flowers in bloom, with “special events” for certain species which are particularly spectacular in their season: the tulip week is in April, dahlias are at their best between July and October. We will discover together this beautiful garden and we will focus on particular botanical species. From Stresa, the gardens are reachable by boat: the shipping company “Navigazione Lago Maggiore” has a landing stage called “Villa Taranto” right in front of the Gardens entrance.
Inclusions: Local guide
Exclusions: Entrance ticket: 11 euro per person.
Reviewed By jpgw2qq
My wife and I were visiting Lake Maggiore for the first time and, at our travel agent's recommendation, we took an all day tour of the three principal Borromean Islands, Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, very personable, and made us feel very comfortable throughout the day. She had already arranged the private boat which took us to each of the islands and the timing for the entire day was like clockwork, without much idle time. We had plenty of time for lunch (there are dozens of restaurant options on Isola dei Pescatori) and for shopping without any of the "what are we sitting here waiting around for?" moments. Isola Bella and Isola Madre each has a beautiful palace to visit, with artwork, interior design, architecture and fabulous gardens to explore and admire. In contrast, Isola dei Pescatori provides a glimpse of the simple life of the ordinary fishermen who inhabited it and gave it its name. We recommend this tour for anyone who hasn't already visited the Borromean Islands.
2. A special guided tour of isola Bella & Fishermen's island with expert guide
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Explore all the treasures hidden in a 17th-century palace on isola Bella and the quaint village on Fishermen's island with an experienced tour guide of lake Maggiore! You will be guided through the historic rooms of an amazing palace and will be shown spectacular gardens built on levels strolling through species of flowers and plants from all continents, surrounded by friendly peacocks. This will be a private tour just for you and your party
Inclusions: Private local guide
Exclusions: Entrance tickets for isola Bella's palace € 17 per person, Boat transport € 11 per person by scheduled boat or private boat transport is possible too
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
3. The magic of a private sunset boat tour around the Borromean islands
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
An experienced English-speaking tour guide will show you lake Maggiore's highlights from the water. What a an excellent way to see lake Maggiore and learn more about the old towns, the islands, the historic villas and palaces, the aristocrats and the Belle Epoque time! All while sitting in a comfortable and safe private boat with no effort and no walking at all! This is an amazing tour that offers the chance to be in touch with a native guide to the area who can tell you about the history and the curiosities, the old fishing activities and the life around the lake today.
Inclusions: Private and expert tour guide, One bottle of prosecco or white wine
Exclusions: Private boat hire
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
4. The best of Lake Maggiore on a private guided boat tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Whether you are a small party, a family or a couple, a private boat tour cruising lake Maggiore can be a unique way to discover this lovely lake and its enchanting scenery: green hills, snow-capped mountains, beautiful islands, elegant villas with stunning gardens, villages and pretty towns, gorgeous views....all this while sitting in a safe and comfortable private motorboat accompanied by a licensed local guide and captain. This stress-free tour will enable you to discover lake Maggiore's beauties wihout any effort, away from the crowds, in a relaxed atmosphere. Just you and your party cruising for the length of time you will choose ( 1 hour, 90 minutes or more). You can decide to have a stop or more stops during the cruise at one of the picturesque towns on lake Maggiore to enjoy a gelato ( ice cream) or a coffee! IMPORTANT NOTES: private boat skipper is certified, fully insured and has a regular license issued by the local authority that entitles him to transport tourists on board.
Inclusions: Private guide service
Exclusions: Private boat transport
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
5. Borromean Islands Private Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour from Stresa
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Sfuggi i rigidi orari che la maggior parte dei tour è costretta a rispettare e godi della bellezza del Lago Maggiore e delle Isole Borromee con il ritmo che preferisci; serviti di un esclusivo servizio in barca che opera tra Stresa e le 3 Isole Borromee: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori e Isola Madre. Sali e scendi dalla barca ogni volta che vuoi, rilassati a bordo di comode imbarcazioni mentre con gli occhi accarezzi i meravigliosi contorni del lago. Sbarca a Isola Bella per visitare la residenza estiva del conte Vitaliano VI, passeggia per i giardini di Palazzo Borromeo sull'Isola Madre e scegli un angolino dove rilassarti e pranzare nel villaggio dei pescatori sull'Isola dei Pescatori, l'unica ad essere ancora abitata.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Bottled water
Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch, Landing and facility fees
Reviewed By Jerry S
Hi it was very nice this boat trip. Also that you have all the time by yourself. Hop on hop off. The island are lovely. The minus part was to find out in Stresa where is the boat. Also the cost to visit the gardens and castle are more expensive as we thought.
6. The romantic village of Orta San Giulio with a tour guide
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Visiting the most romantic village in Piemont. Wandering in the narrow streets. Sailing on the lake to the Island of the silence and the meditation.
Inclusions: Local guide
Exclusions: Transportation to/from attractions, boat 4,50 euro per person to the Island
Reviewed By Annette S
What a stunning garden to visit! We have visited a lot of gardens, but this is one of the best. We arrived by ferry from Stresa and the garden entrance is directly above the ferry terminal. Whilst we visited the dahlias were in bloom, all 300 of them! The greenhouse has Amazonian water lilies which were in flower. Behind the pond is a vertical wall of plants of all kinds. Further into the gardens there is a formal pond area which is planted with colourful bedding plants. There is also a cactus house and relaxation garden. The cafe is situated on the way in and has a good range of drinks and snacks. We spent nearly 3 hours enjoying the plants and lake views. Well worth the entrance fee
7. Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
Navigare sul Lago Maggiore è un'esperienza abbastanza piacevole così com'è. Abbinato a una buona bottiglia di Prosecco, diventa ancora più unico e indimenticabile. La barca che usi durante questa attività è adatta a piccoli gruppi di persone per un cocktail o per fare una sorpresa romantica per il tuo partner. I gruppi più numerosi possono essere ospitati all'interno della barca, protetti dalle intemperie ma allo stesso tempo offrono ampie vedute del lago attraverso le grandi finestre della barca e l'area della terrazza aperta. Goditi un delizioso aperitivo in buona compagnia mentre socializzi a bordo della tua comoda barca. Durante la tua crociera di circa 1 ora, approfitta del tuo tempo per scattare foto e conoscere meglio questo meraviglioso lato del Lago Maggiore.
Inclusions: Private tour, Round-trip private transfer, Transport by private vehicle, Bottled water, Snacks, Alcoholic Beverages
Exclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Coffee and/or Tea
Reviewed By BernardBertram
It's a fantastic service, usually on time, polite & efficient & not expensive. Of course, it's in Italy, so don't expect Swiss standards. The organisation, timetables, ticket prices are all a bit of a muddle but it does work, most of the time & they do an important job of ferrying all the workers on & off the islands, as well as us, tourists.
8. Boat Tour to Borromean Island
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 4 reviews
Panoramical Tour by boat around the Borromean Gulf. No-stop lake cruise Looking for a special way to see the most beautiful island of Maggiore Lake. This is exactly what you are looking for! During this Cruise, that will take 30 minutes, you’ll see the Isola Bella, the Isola Madre, the Isola dei Pescatori. Definitely you can not miss it!
Inclusions: Hop-on hop-off ferry tour
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch
Reviewed By BernardBertram
It's a fantastic service, usually on time, polite & efficient & not expensive. Of course, it's in Italy, so don't expect Swiss standards. The organisation, timetables, ticket prices are all a bit of a muddle but it does work, most of the time & they do an important job of ferrying all the workers on & off the islands, as well as us, tourists.
9. Lake Maggiore:Borromean Islands tour and Hermitage cruise Boat Trip from Stresa
Soak up stunning lake scenery during a private boat tour of Lake Maggiore to the Borromean Islands and Hermitage of Santa caterina cruise. With your own private vessel and captain, travel in style and enjoy total privacy as you bask in the Mediterranean sun. Glide by lush lakeside gardens and towns, stop to view Borromean Palace on Isola Bella or cruise to the other idyllic Borromean Islands and Hermitage. Upgrade to include a local guide, who will accompany you on the trip and reveal more about the history and culture of the region.
Inclusions: Private captain, Private local guide (if option selected), All taxes, fees and handling charges, Hotel pickup (selected hotels only), Private tour
Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch
Reviewed By BernardBertram
It's a fantastic service, usually on time, polite & efficient & not expensive. Of course, it's in Italy, so don't expect Swiss standards. The organisation, timetables, ticket prices are all a bit of a muddle but it does work, most of the time & they do an important job of ferrying all the workers on & off the islands, as well as us, tourists.
10. Tour Etna - Taormina
A spectacular immersion among the rare beauties that Sicily offers. Visit to the Greek Theater of Taormina and Isola Bella, Crateri Silvestri and Valle del Bove.
Inclusions: Professional Guide
Exclusions:
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