Stresa: Isola Bella Boat Tour

The Stresa: Isola Bella Boat Tour offers visitors a chance to discover the stunning Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore. Explore the 17th-century palace and terraced gardens of Isola Bella, where white peacocks roam amidst ornate statues. With a hop-on/hop-off access, guests can enjoy the island’s beauty at their own pace. However, those with mobility challenges should be aware that the tour may not be wheelchair-friendly.

Key Points

• The Isola Bella boat tour is a popular attraction on Lake Maggiore, offering visitors access to the Borromean family palace and ornate gardens.
• Isola Bella features a 17th-century palace with priceless artworks and ten terraced gardens showcasing classical Italian Renaissance landscaping.
• The gardens on Isola Bella are known for their elegant design, symmetrical pathways, ornamental fountains, marble statues, and the presence of captivating white peacocks.
• The boat tour provides hop-on/hop-off access to the islands with a landing fee of €0.50 per island, and entry tickets to the palace and gardens are included.
• However, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users, and traveler reviews indicate varied experiences during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Borromean Islands

While the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore are a renowned attraction, exploring them requires some planning.

The islands, particularly Isola Bella, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and opulent architecture. Visitors can tour the Borromean family palace, admire the ornate gardens, and spot the famous white peacocks.

However, the islands can be crowded, and the boat ride from the mainland necessitates a landing fee. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users.

Nevertheless, the opportunity to take in the islands’ beauty and cultural heritage makes the experience worthwhile for many travelers.

Isola Bella: A Floating Palace

Isola Bella, one of the Borromean Islands, stands as a captivating testament to the region’s rich history and opulent architecture.

The Borromean family palace, built in the 17th century, houses priceless artworks and traverses ten terraced gardens. Visitors can explore the classical Italian gardens and spot the famous white peacocks roaming the grounds.

Though not wheelchair-accessible, the island offers ample opportunities for wandering the ancient village and shopping.

While customer feedback has been mixed, the Isola Bella boat tour provides a chance to take in the island’s stunning natural beauty and historic grandeur.

Seventeenth-Century Italian Gardens

The seventeenth-century Italian gardens on Isola Bella captivate visitors with their classical elegance and meticulously curated design.

Spanning ten terraced levels, the gardens feature symmetrical pathways, manicured hedges, and vibrant floral displays. Visitors can explore the ornamental fountains, marble statues, and the famous white peacocks that roam the grounds.

The terraced design allows for stunning vistas of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. With its attention to detail and harmonious aesthetics, the Isola Bella gardens exemplify the grandeur of Italian Renaissance landscaping.

A stroll through these landscaped oases is a highlight of any visit to the island.

The Famous White Peacocks

One of the most captivating sights on Isola Bella are the famous white peacocks that roam the island’s lush gardens.

These stunning birds strut proudly, their magnificent plumage on full display. Visitors delight in watching the peacocks fan their tails, revealing a dazzling array of iridescent feathers.

The peacocks seem right at home in the picturesque gardens, adding an extra touch of elegance and wonder to the already breathtaking landscape.

Capturing the perfect photo of these majestic creatures is a cherished souvenir for many who visit Isola Bella.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wandering the Ancient Village

After exploring the Borromean family palace and its picturesque gardens, visitors can wander through the ancient village on Isola Bella.

The quaint streets are lined with charming shops and artisan boutiques, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past. Visitors can browse for local handicrafts, textiles, and delicacies, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

From hidden alleyways to peaceful plazas, the village presents an opportunity to take in the island’s authentic character.

With time to explore at one’s own pace, the ancient village adds a delightful dimension to the Isola Bella experience.

Tour Duration and Accessibility

The boat tour of Lake Maggiore to Isola Bella is valid for 1 day, with hop-on/hop-off access to the island.

Visitors should note the following:

1. The landing fee is €0.50 for each island, payable on-site.

2. Entry tickets to Isola Bella Palace and Garden are included in the tour.

3. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

While the flexible booking and cancellation policies offer convenience, some traveler reviews have noted mixed experiences during the tour.

Visitors are advised to consider their accessibility needs before booking.

Meeting Point and Boarding

Travelers can depart from the yellow and blue pier marked by the Lake Tours flag or inquire with company representatives in Piazza Marconi.

Boarding occurs shortly after arrival at the pier. The tour company’s staff are on-hand to assist guests and ensure a smooth boarding process.

Visitors should arrive at the designated meeting point with ample time, as the boats depart promptly. Getting to the pier early helps avoid any delays or missed departures.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

According to the customer feedback, tour experiences have been mixed.

The tour has an overall rating of 3.9/5 based on 10 reviews, indicating both positive and negative experiences.

Some key points:

1. Issues during the tour reported by some travelers.

2. Varied feedback from customers, with both satisfactory and unsatisfactory experiences.

3. The tour may not be suitable for all guests, as indicated by the note about it not being wheelchair-accessible.

Common Questions

Can I Purchase Tickets On-Site or Do I Need to Book in Advance?

Customers can purchase tickets on-site, but it’s recommended to book in advance. This provides flexibility to reserve the tour and pay later without an upfront payment, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours prior.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or children. The standard ticket price of $8.70 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age. Last-minute or on-site bookings are permitted, but advance reservations are recommended to secure availability.

How Long Does the Boat Journey From the Mainland to Isola Bella Take?

The boat journey from the mainland to Isola Bella takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The tour provides flexible hop-on/hop-off access to the island, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tour?

The tour details don’t mention any restrictions on bringing your own food and drinks. You’re likely allowed to bring your own refreshments to enjoy during the boat ride to Isola Bella, though you should check with the tour operator to confirm.

Are Audio Guides or Guided Tours Available on the Island?

Audio guides and guided tours are available on Isola Bella. Visitors can choose to explore the palace and gardens independently or join a guided tour to learn more about the island’s history and attractions.

The Sum Up

The Stresa: Isola Bella Boat Tour offers visitors a chance to discover the enchanting Borromean Islands. While the tour may not be accessible for all, it provides a unique opportunity to explore Isola Bella’s 17th-century palace, lush gardens, and historic charm. With a hop-on/hop-off option, guests can enjoy the beauty of this captivating destination at their own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: