Baveno is a fantastic base for exploring Lake Maggiore, especially if you love being on the water. Its location on the northern shore makes it a natural starting point for boat trips that reveal the lake’s most famous sights—the Borromean Islands. We particularly like the Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands because it balances flexibility with fascinating island visits, offering a chance to wander gardens and historic palaces at your own pace. Plus, the relaxed boat rides between islands provide a memorable way to soak in the scenery.
If you’ve got a romantic evening in mind, the Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori from Feriolo offers a private night-time cruise combined with a delicious dinner. For those interested in a shorter, more casual experience, the Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo taps into the region’s history with a visit to Santa Caterina del Sasso, all while enjoying the lake’s scenic views. Each option offers something unique, whether it’s island history, romantic dining, or cultural exploration.
1. Baveno: Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands
At number one, this Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to the 3 Borromean Islands is a favorite for its flexibility and comprehensive experience. For a single day, you can explore Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Pescatori Island, each offering a different flavor of Lake Maggiore life. The tour departs from Summer Boats Consorzio Motoscafisti, and the boat schedule varies—so check availability and start times when planning. The islands are connected by smooth, comfortable boat rides, giving you plenty of time to explore gardens, palaces, and charming fishing villages.
What makes this tour stand out is the liberty it gives you—spend as much time as you want on each island, whether wandering the terraced gardens of Palazzo Borromeo or exploring the narrow alleys of Pescatori. The islands are beautifully maintained, with highlights like the botanical gardens and historic palaces, making it perfect for culture and nature lovers alike. Reviews praise the punctuality and efficiency, with one saying, “Everything went smoothly, transport was right on time.” This tour is excellent value for those eager to see the best of Lake Maggiore in one day.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, well-organized way to explore the Borromean Islands, this hop-on-hop-off tour offers a great mix of convenience, scenery, and cultural sights.
2. Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori from Feriolo
Number two on our list is the Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori from Feriolo, a perfect choice for those seeking a romantic evening or a special night on the lake. Starting from Feriolo, you’ll climb into a private water taxi for a 20-minute cruise across Lake Maggiore. When you arrive at Pescatori Island, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to enjoy dinner at one of the island’s restaurants—famous for their fresh fish and local specialties.
This tour is a standout because of its intimate setting and the chance to enjoy the lake’s stunning sunset views while dining. You don’t have to worry about transportation; the hassle-free transfer and private boat make for a seamless experience. Reviews emphasize how beautiful the island is, with one guest mentioning, “Very nice. The island is beautiful.” It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for an elegant, relaxed evening away from the crowds.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, scenic dinner experience with the added bonus of a private boat ride, this tour offers both romance and convenience.
3. Lake Maggiore: Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo
Rounding out the list is the Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo, a shorter tour that combines a boat ride with a cultural visit. Departing from Feriolo, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute water taxi to the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, which is one of the most striking religious sites on Lake Maggiore. Once there, you’re free to explore at your own pace for about two hours, taking in the views and the peaceful atmosphere.
What makes this tour unique is the focus on Santa Caterina’s historic and scenic significance. Built into a cliffside, the hermitage offers breathtaking views and a chance to step back in time. The tour’s family-friendly aspect is a bonus—children and adults alike will appreciate the manageable two-hour visit and the stunning vistas. One positive review notes, “The scenery and the hermitage are incredible,” making it a good choice for history, architecture, or photography buffs.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in combining a scenic boat ride with a visit to a historic site, this shorter tour fits well into a busy itinerary, offering a memorable cultural highlight.
How to Choose the Best Lake Maggiore Boat Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you want to see the islands in depth and enjoy the freedom to explore, the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is ideal. For a romantic night out, the Dinner Cruise offers a memorable setting and excellent food. Meanwhile, if you’re keen on a cultural experience with a shorter time commitment, the Santa Caterina visit balances scenery with history.
Think about your budget, available time, and interests. The hop-on-hop-off is best for those who want a full-day experience, while the dinner cruise is perfect for a special occasion. The Santa Caterina tour suits travelers who prefer a quick, scenic cultural stop. Booking early, especially for the dinner cruise, ensures you get your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Baveno and Lake Maggiore offer a wonderful range of boat tours to suit different tastes and schedules. The hop-on-hop-off islands tour is perfect for those eager to explore at their own pace, while the dinner cruise delivers a romantic night with excellent food. Alternatively, the Santa Caterina trip provides a mix of scenery and culture in a shorter package.
For families, couples, or history lovers, each of these tours offers something special. Be sure to book early if you want to guarantee your spot, especially in peak season. Whatever you choose, a day on Lake Maggiore’s water is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Baveno.