Situated in the picturesque region of northern Italy, the private Lake Orta and Isola San Giulio tour offers visitors a chance to experience the enchanting beauty of this serene landscape. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the 2-hour excursion takes guests through the charming village of Orta, across the lake to the historic Basilica on San Giulio Island, and introduces them to the local culinary delights. With round-trip boat transportation included, this tour promises to immerse travelers in the rich history and captivating ambiance that makes this destination so alluring.
About Your Stay
- A private 2-hour tour priced at $436.89 per group, accommodating up to 20 participants with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Explore the picturesque village of Orta, featuring noble palaces, panoramic terraces, and the 16th-century broletto, with a visit to the nearby Island of San Giulio.
- Enjoy round-trip boat transportation to the Island of San Giulio, home to the Basilica and Abbey with captivating frescoes and a rare green marble ambo.
- Experience a live tour guide in Italian and English, providing access to Villa Bossi’s garden for stunning lake views and identifying themselves with a displayed badge.
- Discover the local shops and gastronomic offerings in Orta, including family-owned delis, cafés, and regional specialties like creamy risotto and local wines.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private Lake Orta and Isola San Giulio tour is priced from $436.89 per group, accommodating up to 20 participants.
The 2-hour tour allows free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Participants can reserve their spot without immediate payment.
The tour includes a live guide available in Italian and English, as well as round-trip boat transportation to the Island of San Giulio.
Guests will explore the village of Orta, visit the Basilica on the island, and discover local shops and gastronomic offerings.
The tour starts at the 15th-century church of Santa Maria Assunta.
Looking for more options in Orta San Giulio? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour explores the picturesque village of Orta, showcasing its noble palaces and panoramic terraces.
The picturesque village of Orta showcases its noble palaces and panoramic terraces on this immersive tour.
Visitors will then venture to the nearby Island of San Giulio, home to the Basilica and Abbey. Along the way, they’ll discover local shops and gastronomic offerings in the village.
The tour also includes a visit to the 16th-century broletto, or Palazzo della Comunità. Guests will walk along the stone-paved Motta, admiring the beautiful palaces, and access Villa Bossi’s garden for stunning lake views.
The tour highlights the island’s legendary history, from the story of Saint Giulio to the Basilica’s rare green marble ambo.
Guided Tour Experience
During the guided tour experience, a live tour guide is available in both Italian and English to lead visitors through the highlights.
The tour starts at the 15th-century church of Santa Maria Assunta and takes guests along the stone-paved road called Motta, showcasing beautiful palaces.
Visitors will also have access to the garden of Villa Bossi for stunning lake views.
The local guide will be easily identifiable, as they’ll display a license badge for authentication.
The tour package includes the licensed guide and round-trip boat ticket to San Giulio Island.
Historical Significance
According to local legend, the island of San Giulio was once inhabited by snakes until Saint Giulio arrived in 390 AD and banished them from the island.
The island is home to the Basilica of San Giulio, which houses frescoes and a rare green marble ambo.
The Basilica of San Giulio on Isola San Giulio houses captivating frescoes and a remarkable green marble ambo.
Just outside the basilica, the Via del Silenzio, a small road, leads past ancient villas and the Mater Ecclesiae Abbey, adding to the island’s historical significance.
The rich history and religious significance of Isola San Giulio have made it a popular destination for visitors seeking to enjoy the region’s past.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Logistics
The meeting point for the private Lake Orta tour is Piazza Motta, near the ice cream shop Eliot.
The local guide will display a license badge for easy identification.
The tour includes a licensed guide and round-trip boat ticket to San Giulio Island.
Food and drink aren’t included in the tour package.
-
Easily locate the meeting point near a popular landmark.
-
Recognize the guide by their official badge.
-
Enjoy hassle-free transportation to the island.
-
Focus on the tour experience without extra expenses.
-
Arrive prepared for a guided exploration of the area.
Exploring the Village of Orta
As the tour begins, visitors explore the charming village of Orta, marveling at its noble palaces and panoramic terraces.
The guide leads them along the stone-paved Motta, showcasing the beautiful architecture. They admire the 16th-century broletto, the town’s civic palace.
Passing by local shops and gastronomic offerings, the group arrives at the 15th-century church of Santa Maria Assunta, the starting point of the tour.
From here, they gain access to the gardens of Villa Bossi, offering stunning views of the serene Lake Orta and the iconic Isola San Giulio in the distance.
Discovering Isola San Giulio
After exploring the charming village of Orta, the group boards a boat and heads to the captivating Isola San Giulio. The island’s history dates back to the 4th century, when St. Giulio drove away snakes and founded a monastery.
Visitors can now discover:
-
The Basilica of San Giulio, home to remarkable frescoes and a unique green marble ambo
-
The tranquil Via del Silenzio, a small road leading past ancient villas and the Mater Ecclesiae Abbey
-
Local shops and restaurants offering authentic gastronomic delights
-
Panoramic views of the lake from the island’s perimeter
-
The peaceful ambiance that has drawn visitors for centuries.
Local Shops and Gastronomic Offerings
While strolling through the quaint village of Orta, visitors can’t resist the temptation to explore the local shops and savor the tantalizing gastronomic offerings.
Charming boutiques showcase handcrafted products, from intricate lace to artisanal pottery. Nearby, family-owned delis and cafés beckon with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries.
Charming boutiques showcase handcrafted treasures, while nearby delis and cafés tempt with the scent of coffee and homemade pastries.
Visitors can indulge in regional specialties like creamy risotto, sipping local wines as they admire the stunning lake views.
The village’s vibrant energy and passion for quality craftsmanship and culinary delights create an immersive cultural experience for all who visit.
Questions About Your Stay
Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be fully suitable for visitors with mobility issues. The itinerary includes walking along stone-paved roads and accessing villa gardens, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any accessibility accommodations.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Sights?
The tour can be customized to include specific sights, as the private nature allows flexibility. Guests can work with the guide to tailor the itinerary to their interests and needs.
What Kind of Transportation Is Provided for the Island Visit?
The tour includes round-trip boat transportation to Isola San Giulio. A licensed guide accompanies participants on the boat ride and guides them through the island’s historic sites and attractions during the 2-hour experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available for the Tour?
The tour price starts at $436.89 per group, accommodating up to 20 participants. Group discounts may be available, but specific rates are not provided. The price includes a round-trip boat ticket to Isola San Giulio.
Can the Tour Be Extended to Include Additional Activities or Sites?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional activities or sites. Customized itineraries are available, allowing guests to explore more of the area’s history, culture, and natural beauty at an additional cost.
Final Verdict On This Stay
This private tour is an enchanting way to experience the picturesque Lake Orta and Isola San Giulio. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore the charming village of Orta, marvel at the historic Basilica on the island, and indulge in local culinary delights. The round-trip boat transportation and rich historical insights make this a truly unforgettable excursion, priced affordably for up to 20 participants.
You can check availability for your dates here: