Baveno is a treasure trove for those who love exploring lakeside scenery, historic sights, and charming islands—all within easy reach. What makes Baveno stand out is its perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm, especially for travelers eager to experience Lake Maggiore’s islands and serene waters. Among the many options, we particularly appreciate the Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands for its flexibility and variety, allowing you to see Madre, Bella, and Pescatori islands in a single day, and the Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori for a romantic night on the lake. These experiences showcase the best of Baveno’s waters, history, and local life, giving you a well-rounded trip.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include boat tours that explore the Borromean Islands’ gardens and palaces, highlighted by the hop-on hop-off boat trips, which offer maximum flexibility. For a more exclusive evening, the Lake Maggiore boat dinner provides a memorable meal on the water. Additional options include focused visits like Isola Bella and romantic excursions to Santa Caterina del Sasso.
Now, let’s explore each experience to see what makes them special.
1. Baveno: Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands
At number 1, this full-day boat tour offers the perfect way to visit all three Borromean Islands—Madre, Bella, and Pescatori—at your own pace. The tour departs from Summer Boats Consorzio Motoscafisti, and with a 4.4/5 rating from 320 reviews, it’s highly reliable and well-loved. The itinerary allows you to hop between islands, taking your time to wander gardens, explore palaces, and soak in the scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexible format, giving travelers the freedom to explore each island’s unique highlights. For example, you’ll get to lose yourself in Pescatori’s narrow alleys, wander through terraced gardens on Bella, and marvel at the botanical gardens surrounding Palazzo Borromeo on Madre Island. The cruise offers a peaceful way to appreciate Lake Maggiore without feeling rushed, and reviews praise its punctuality and smooth operation. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience of the islands on a single day.
Bottom Line: This is a top choice for those seeking a flexible, all-in-one adventure on Lake Maggiore with plenty of time to explore each island’s treasures.
2. Visit Isole Borromee: Hop-on Hop-off Tour to Isola Bella
Coming in at number 2, this focused tour centers solely on Isola Bella, the jewel of the Borromean Islands. It’s perfect if you’re particularly interested in visiting the stunning 17th-century palace and the famous Italianate gardens. The tour departs from Piazza IV Novembre and includes about 2 hours on the island, giving enough time to stroll through the gardens and admire the Baroque architecture.
The tour’s appeal lies in its intimate experience of Isola Bella’s most famous sights. Visitors rave about the beauty of the gardens and the palace’s ornate rooms. The limited review count (16 reviews with a 4.5/5 rating) indicates it’s a well-regarded, straightforward option for a quick visit. The main consideration is entrance fees to the palace and gardens, which are not included in the ticket—so budget accordingly.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a dedicated visit to the most iconic island and enjoy Baroque art and lush gardens without rushing.
3. Lake Maggiore: Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori from Feriolo
Number 3 offers a romantic evening experience with a boat dinner at Pescatori. This 3-hour private taxi boat ride combines scenic lakeside cruising with a delicious dinner on the island. Departing from Feriolo, you’ll glide across Lake Maggiore as the sun sets, with stunning mountain views framing the experience.
What makes this tour special is its intimate setting—perfect for couples or small groups wanting a memorable night out. The dinner options vary, but the focus is on enjoying local cuisine in a relaxed, non-touristy environment. Reviewers unanimously praise the island’s beauty and the peaceful night cruise. It’s a bit more exclusive and does involve some planning, but the hassle-free transfer and personalized experience make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a romantic, scenic dinner with privacy and comfort.
4. Visit Isole: Madre Island & Bella Island Tour Hop-on Hop-off
Ranked fourth, this comprehensive hop-on hop-off boat tour covers two of the most famous islands: Madre and Bella. Starting from Baveno, you get to explore the lush botanical gardens surrounding Palazzo Borromeo on Madre and the exquisite terraced gardens of Bella. The flexible schedule allows you to spend as much time as you like on each island, making it ideal for immersive exploration.
What sets this trip apart is the detailed island experience combined with the comfort of an organized boat service. The reviews highlight well-maintained boats, punctual departures, and the value of exploring two islands in a single trip. Keep in mind, entrance fees to palaces and gardens are extra but well worth the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible day exploring two of Lake Maggiore’s most beautiful islands.
5. Visit Isole: Tour Hop-on Hop-off Isola Bella e Pescatori
Number 5 combines visits to Isola Bella and Pescatori in a single day. Starting from Baveno, you will hop between the baroque palace and gardens of Bella and the quaint fishing village of Pescatori. With a 4.7/5 rating from 6 reviews, this tour offers a balanced glimpse of culture and local life.
This tour is ideal if you want variety—history, gardens, and authentic village scenes—all in one trip. The reviews note the professionalism of the boats and the clear advantages of exploring two distinctive islands. Expect to pay extra for island entrance fees, but the overall experience is considered well worth it.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers seeking a combination of cultural sights and local charm on Lake Maggiore.
6. Lake Maggiore: Boat to Santa Caterina from Feriolo
Rounding out the list, this shorter 2-hour tour focuses on the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Departing from Feriolo, you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride and get the chance to explore this historic monastery at your own pace.
The highlight is the combination of a relaxing boat trip with the opportunity to walk through Santa Caterina’s cloisters and chapels. The reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and the value of a family-friendly outing, especially with the special family rate. It’s an excellent choice for those with limited time or looking for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a quick, scenic visit to a historic site with minimal hassle.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting your Baveno experience, consider your budget, available time, and what kind of scenery or activities appeal most. If you’re after a full day exploring multiple islands, the Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour to 3 Borromean Islands offers excellent value. For a dedicated, immersive visit, the Isola Bella tour is perfect.
Looking for a romantic evening? The Boat Dinner at Isola Pescatori provides a unique dining experience. For a quick yet scenic outing, the Santa Caterina boat tour is a practical choice.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, to secure the best times and avoid disappointment. Each tour offers a different way to connect with Lake Maggiore’s stunning scenery and charming islands—pick the one that best matches your interests and schedule.
In summary, Baveno offers a variety of tours that cater to different tastes—whether you want a full-day island tour, a romantic dinner cruise, or a quick exploration of Santa Caterina. The top choices listed above provide a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re a history lover, a romantic, or simply seeking peace on the water, there’s a perfect way to enjoy Lake Maggiore. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy the best of Baveno’s waterside treasures.