Discover the enchanting beauty of Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands on a private tour of Isola Bella and Isola Madre. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this personalized experience unveils the stunning Baroque Palazzo Borromeo, its terraced gardens, and the exotic botanical paradise of Isola Madre. With private boat transport and pre-arranged entry tickets, this tour promises an unforgettable day immersed in the islands’ rich history and natural wonders. Want to know more about planning your visit?
Key Points
- This private tour offers a guided experience of Isola Bella and Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore, with a licensed, English-fluent local as the guide.
- The tour includes private boat transport to the islands, which costs €200 and is payable on the day, in addition to the entry tickets of €36 per person.
- The total cost of the tour starts from $359.73 per group, accommodating up to 5 people, and is non-refundable with no prepayment required.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required to navigate the various terrains.
- Highlights of the tour include the Baroque-style Palazzo Borromeo, the terraced gardens, and the botanical garden on Isola Madre with its rare exotic plants.
Tour Overview
The private tour of the Borromeos Isola Bella and Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore in Italy features a personal guided experience with a licensed, English-fluent local.
Private boat transport to the islands costs €200 and isn’t included in the tour price. Entry tickets are €36 per person, payable on the day.
Customers select a meeting point for pickup, and the tour ends back at the same location.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as your group will be the only participants on this private tour.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Lake Maggiore
Pricing and Booking
The total cost for the private tour starts from $359.73 per group, accommodating up to 5 people.
This non-refundable tour requires no prepayment, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Some key booking details:
-
Entry tickets, priced at €36 per person, must be paid by customers on the day.
-
Private boat transport costs €200, payable directly to the captain.
-
There’s no refund for cancellations.
Meeting and Pickup
Customers will select a meeting point for pickup at the start of the tour.
The tour guide will then lead the group to the private boat for transport to Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
At the end of the tour, the group will return to the meeting point where the tour began.
The tour guide ensures the group arrives back at the designated pickup location.
This allows customers to easily depart after the tour is complete.
The meeting point selection provides convenience and flexibility for customers to begin and end their private tour experience.
Accessibility and Requirements
Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.
This private tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as there will be some walking involved.
Here are a few key requirements to keep in mind:
-
Participants should be able to navigate various terrains, including steps and uneven paths.
-
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or significant physical limitations.
-
Children are welcome, but parents/guardians are responsible for their supervision throughout the tour.
Reviews and Ratings
With 1 positive review earning a 5.0 rating, the private tour of Borromeo’s Isola Bella and Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore has garnered strong customer satisfaction.
Though limited in number, the review praises the knowledgeable local guide and the beautiful islands. Sourced from Viator and Tripadvisor, the tour has no ratings below 4 stars, suggesting an overall positive experience.
Customers can expect a personalized tour with private boat transport and pre-paid entry tickets. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Booking is non-refundable, so travelers should plan accordingly.
- Private Tour to Bellagio and Lake Como From Stresa
- Ossola Valley Winery Tour With Tastings
- Unique Lake Maggiore Day Trip From Milan
- Private Tour of Borromean Islands With Micaela Guide
- The Gems of Lake Maggiore – the Borromean Islands on a Private Guided Tour
- Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiores Borromeo Islands
Highlights of Isola Bella
The centerpiece of the private tour is Isola Bella, a magnificent island that showcases the Borromeo family’s grand 17th-century palace and terraced gardens.
Highlights include:
-
The Baroque-style Palazzo Borromeo, featuring an opulent interior with frescoed walls, intricate tapestries, and ornate furnishings.
-
The ten-level, terraced Italian gardens, offering panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and a variety of exotic plant species.
-
The Fountain of the Grotto, a whimsical structure adorned with statues and intricate carvings.
Visitors can enjoy the island’s rich history and admire its breathtaking natural beauty during this private tour.
Exploring Isola Madre
What else can visitors expect on this private tour? After exploring the lavish palace and terraced gardens of Isola Bella, the tour moves to Isola Madre.
This island boasts a stunning botanical garden featuring rare exotic plants, as well as a Renaissance-style palazzo. Wander through the lush flora, spot wildlife like peacocks roaming the grounds, and admire the elegant architecture.
The guide provides insights into the history and significance of this less-crowded but equally enchanting Borromean island. With ample time to discover Isola Madre at your own pace, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded experience of the Borromean Islands.
Planning Your Visit
To plan your visit, first select a convenient meeting point for pickup. The tour ends back at this same location, so choose a spot that works well for your group.
When booking, keep in mind the following:
-
Private boat transport is €200, payable directly to the captain on the day.
-
Entry tickets are €36 per person, also due on the day.
-
This tour is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
With transportation and tickets sorted, you’re ready to explore the stunning Borromean Islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
Enjoy the private tour with an experienced, English-fluent guide.
More Tickets in Lake Maggiore
More Tour Reviews in Lake Maggiore
- Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Stresa
- Malpensa Lake Orta Private Taxi Transfer with David
- Discover lake Orta – Private tours from Stresa, Baveno, Verbania
- The romantic village of Orta San Giulio with a tour guide
- The three Borromean Islands with a private tour guide
- Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
Still browsing? Here are more Lake Maggiore experiences we've covered recently
- Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Stresa
- Malpensa Lake Orta Private Taxi Transfer with David
- Discover lake Orta – Private tours from Stresa, Baveno, Verbania
- The romantic village of Orta San Giulio with a tour guide
- The three Borromean Islands with a private tour guide
- Stresa: 3 Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
- Cannobio: Guided Walking Tour With Aperitif
- Private Tour of Borromeos Isola Bella and Isola Madre
- Sunset Riva Super Ariston
- Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Lesa With Show Cooking
- Private Tour on Isola Bella With a Tour Guide and Sunset Cruise.
- Half Day Tour: Isola Bella and Fishermens Island With a Tour Guide