Lake Maggiore Day Trip from Milan

From€139
7 hours – 10 hours
Monterosso al Mare, Italy

About this activity

A guided day trip from Milan to Lake Maggiore, featuring visits to Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori, a scenic boat ride, and exploration of Stresa's lakeside town.

Highlights

  • Explore Isola Bella's Borromean Palace
  • Stroll through Isola dei Pescatori's quaint streets
  • Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Maggiore
  • Discover the rich history of the Borromean Islands
  • Experience the charm of Stresa's lakeside town

Full description

Escape the hustle and bustle of Milan on a captivating day trip to Lake Maggiore, Italy's second-largest lake renowned for its stunning beauty and historical significance. Your journey begins with comfortable round-trip transportation from Milan to the picturesque town of Stresa, nestled along the lake's shores. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of the Borromean Islands, starting with Isola Bella. Explore the opulent Borromean Palace, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, and wander through its meticulously manicured gardens. Next, visit Isola dei Pescatori, the only inhabited island, where you can meander through charming streets lined with traditional houses and enjoy the serene lakeside ambiance. Throughout the day, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Lake Maggiore, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and islands. This excursion offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, providing an unforgettable experience just a short distance from Milan.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Milan to Lake Maggiore
  • Guided tour of Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori
  • Boat ride on Lake Maggiore
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Pass by: Depart by bus from Milan to Lake Maggiore, with a short rest stop along the way.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

On the borders of Piedmont, Lombardy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore, also known as Verbano is the second largest Italian lake. Your visit will start with a lake cruise. On board you will enjoy the view of exquisite lakeside villas and lush gardens surrounded by crystal blue waters set amidst the beauty of snow capped alps.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
3

First, we pass the exotic Isola Madre, home to a 20 acre park that is considered one of the most impressive in Italy, before heading back in time to the simple life of Isola dei Pescatori where you will have free time to explore, shop or enjoy a light lunch.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

The next stop will be the luxurious Isola Bella with the elaborate gardens of the Borromean Palace surrounded by boutiques and cafés housed in grand historic buildings ( entrance to Palazzo Borromeo included). Finally, you will re-join the boat and cruise back to Stresa where you can have free time to explore this quiet and fascinating little town, try some local food or indulge in some shopping before returning to Milan.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
5

Our tour will take you to picturesque Stresa, on the western shores of Lake Maggiore. Stresa is a lovely town with beautiful villas and gardens, some of which are open to the public. With a comfortable climate, Stresa offers stunning lake views, and you can also take the cable car up to Monte Mottarone for views of the Alps and the lakes.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: Departure from Stresa to Milan by Bus with a short rest stop on the way

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Milan Visitor Center - Zani Viaggi, Largo Cairoli, 18, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Important information

Know before you book

  • Confirm the tour's departure time and meeting location in advance
  • Be aware that meals and beverages are not included in the tour price
  • Ensure you have a valid passport or ID for travel within the Schengen Area

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the islands and town
  • Bring a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes and architecture
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the boat ride

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infants Required On Laps

Traveler reviews

4.5
102 reviews
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Lake Magorie cruise

2 hours by coach to get to lakes,borded small cruiser about thirty people,cruised the three islands.Visited palace on largest very ornate superb gardens,then onto next island for lunch very nice.Back to shore by cruiser to lake Magiore,plenty of time at each spot very knowledge able local guide. Marco our guide was very helpfull.

keith_tApr 14, 2026VIATOR

The experience was very...

The experience was very good. Our tour guide Monica was very knowledgeable and very pleasant. I rated this tour a 4 instead of 5 because as per the itenarary included the entry to the Palace Boromeo grounds however we were informed by the tour guide this was not included. It was disappointing considering this was one of the tour highlights.

Giuseppe_MMay 29, 2025VIATOR

too much time for 1...

too much time for 1 island and no time for strase....no added value to this trip. guide bearly talked.....

ilanit_rMay 5, 2025VIATOR

Good.

Everything was on-time. Very interesting program. especially in Borromeo palace. Thanks for good organization of trip.

yakovr612May 5, 2025TRIPADVISOR

The beautiful landscape...

The beautiful landscape surrounding the lake. The mansion tour was beautiful. And being able to visit 2 different islands was a treat.

Lori_DOct 22, 2024VIATOR