Exploring the Enchanting Palazzo Borromeo
Discover the historical grandeur and stunning gardens of Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, a cultural gem in the heart of Lake Maggiore, Italy.
Palazzo Borromeo, located on the stunning Isola Bella, is a must-visit for tourists in Stresa. This magnificent museum offers a glimpse into Italy's rich history, art, and architecture, all set against a breathtaking backdrop of the Borromean Islands and Lake Maggiore. Visitors can wander through its opulent gardens and ornate rooms, each telling stories of nobility and elegance.
A brief summary to Palazzo Borromeo
- Isola Bella, 1, Stresa, Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, 28838, IT
- +390323933478
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the gardens; they are just as impressive as the palace itself.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the gardens are best enjoyed on a clear day.
- Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and art within the palace.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding islands.
Getting There
-
Ferry
From Ascona, walk to the Ascona ferry terminal located near the lakeside promenade. Once there, purchase a ticket for a ferry to Stresa. The ferry ride offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore and takes approximately 30 minutes. After arriving at the Stresa ferry terminal, you will need to walk towards the main road (Via Roma) and follow the signs towards Isola Bella. Cross the street and board another ferry that will take you directly to Isola Bella, where Palazzo Borromeo is located.
-
Public Transport
Start by walking to the nearest bus stop in Ascona. Take the bus to Stresa, which typically involves a change in Locarno. Check local schedules for the exact bus times. Once in Stresa, head towards the lakefront, where you will find the ferry terminal. Purchase a ticket for the ferry to Isola Bella. The ferry will take you directly to the island, where you can explore Palazzo Borromeo.
-
Walking
If you prefer a scenic route, you can walk from Ascona to the nearby town of Locarno, which is approximately a 30-minute walk along the lakeside promenade. From Locarno, head to the Locarno ferry terminal and take a ferry to Stresa. After arriving in Stresa, follow the signs to the ferry terminal for Isola Bella. Board the ferry, and once you arrive at the island, you will find Palazzo Borromeo just a short walk from the dock.
Discover more about Palazzo Borromeo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piazza Luigi Cadorna
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting charm of Piazza Luigi Cadorna, a serene gathering point in Stresa, perfect for relaxation and enjoying stunning views of Lake Maggiore.
Piazza Marconi
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Piazza Marconi in Stresa, Italy, where stunning lake views, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine await every traveler.
Piazza IV Novembre
2.1 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza IV Novembre, a charming square in Baveno, Italy, offering stunning lake views and delightful local cuisine.
Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo
14.1 km
Explore the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, a towering statue in Arona that offers stunning views and rich historical significance.
Piazza Mario Motta, 3
14.4 km
Experience the enchanting ambiance of Piazza Mario Motta, the vibrant heart of Orta San Giulio, with stunning views and charming cafes.
Santa Maria Maggiore
26.9 km
Explore the enchanting village of Santa Maria Maggiore, a hidden gem in Italy's Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, offering rich history and stunning natural beauty.
Parco Scherrer
29.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Parco Scherrer, a botanical garden in Morcote offering stunning views of Lake Lugano and a serene escape into nature's embrace.
Isole di Brissago
30.8 km
Explore the lush beauty of Isole di Brissago, a botanical garden paradise on Lake Maggiore, showcasing exotic plants and breathtaking views.
Swing the World
31.7 km
Experience the thrill of Swing the World in Lugano, where breathtaking views and adrenaline-fueled swings await you in this beautiful Swiss destination.
Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola
31.9 km
Discover the enchanting world of Hermann Hesse at the Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola, a must-visit cultural destination rich in literary heritage.
Parco San Grato
32.0 km
Explore Parco San Grato in Lugano, a breathtaking botanical garden offering stunning views, diverse flora, and serene walking paths for nature lovers.
Monte Rosa
32.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Monte Rosa, a majestic mountain range in Italy's Province of Varese, perfect for nature lovers.
Swissminiatur
33.5 km
Discover the beauty of Switzerland in miniature at Swissminiatur, where iconic landmarks come to life in a stunning open-air museum in Melide.
Piazza Architetto Mario Chiattone
33.5 km
Explore Piazza Architetto Mario Chiattone in Lugano - a serene square blending culture, architecture, and local life amidst stunning Swiss scenery.
Monte San Salvatore
33.8 km
Discover the stunning vistas and serene hiking trails of Monte San Salvatore, a must-visit peak in Lugano, Switzerland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Isola Bella
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Isola Bella, an island paradise on Lake Maggiore filled with stunning gardens and rich history.
Piazzale Lido
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Piazzale Lido in Stresa, a scenic lakeside retreat perfect for relaxation, dining, and exploration of Lake Maggiore.
Un Sogno di Lago-visite guidate isole Borromee
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Borromean Islands with guided tours from Un Sogno di Lago in Stresa.
Isola dei Pescatori
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich traditions of Isola dei Pescatori, a charming island gem in Lake Maggiore, Italy, perfect for culinary and cultural exploration.
Borromean Islands
0.9 km
Explore the picturesque Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, a serene paradise of gardens, history, and charming villages waiting to be discovered.
Stresa
0.9 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Stresa, where stunning lake views meet rich Italian culture and history, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Lungolago di Stresa
1.0 km
Discover the beauty of Lungolago di Stresa, a scenic lakeside promenade offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape in Stresa, Italy.
Piazza Guglielmo Marconi
1.7 km
Discover the beauty of Piazza Guglielmo Marconi in Stresa, a serene park offering stunning lake views and a taste of Italian culture.
Orto botanico Isola Madre
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Orto Botanico Isola Madre, a serene botanical garden on Lake Maggiore, where exotic plants and historical charm await.
Lungolago di Baveno
1.9 km
Explore the scenic Lungolago di Baveno, where stunning lake views meet charming local culture in this enchanting lakeside promenade.
Giardini Botanici dell'Isola Madre
1.9 km
Explore the lush beauty and historical charm of Isola Madre's Botanical Gardens, a serene getaway on Lake Maggiore.
Viale delle Magnolie
3.4 km
Discover the enchanting Viale delle Magnolie in Verbania, where lush landscapes and stunning lake views create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.
Museo del Paesaggio
3.6 km
Explore the enchanting Museo del Paesaggio in Verbania, where art meets nature in a stunning celebration of beauty and creativity.
Un Sogno di Lago -guida turistica lago Maggiore
4.5 km
Experience the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage at Un Sogno di Lago, the must-visit open-air museum by Lake Maggiore.
Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto
4.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of nature at Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto, an exquisite botanical garden in Verbania, Italy, offering a tranquil escape.
Essential places to dine
The hotel restaurant Monterosa
13.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Hotel Restaurant Monterosa in Ameno.
Crotto Valtellina
28.7 km
Discover authentic Northern Italian cuisine at Crotto Valtellina in Malnate—where tradition meets flavor.
Trattoria Monterosa
28.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Monterosa in Serravalle Sesia – where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Piccolo Bistrot
29.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Piccolo Bistrot in Jerago con Orago - where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.
Osteria della Pista
29.7 km
Discover Osteria della Pista in Casorate Sempione: A charming Italian restaurant offering authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
DU BAI Coffee, Drink and Restaurant
30.1 km
Discover the taste of Italy at DU BAI Coffee, Drink and Restaurant – where every bite tells a story.
Osteria Piccolo Stelvio
30.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Piccolo Stelvio in Gornate Superiore - where every meal tells a story.
La Mimosa Ristorante
31.3 km
Discover La Mimosa Ristorante in Gallarate - your destination for authentic Italian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and gourmet pizzas.
Trattoria del Ponte
32.0 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria del Ponte in Gallarate, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Ristorante Cafè Tiro a Volo
32.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Cafè Tiro a Volo in Cardano al Campo, where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Trattoria Posteria Torba
32.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Posteria Torba in Gornate Olona - where every dish tells a story.
Posteria San Rocco
32.8 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Italy at Posteria San Rocco, a culinary haven in Gallarate offering authentic dishes and exceptional service.
Ristorante Grotto del Pep
33.0 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Ristorante Grotto del Pep in Lugano – where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.
Ilario Vinciguerra Restaurant
33.1 km
Experience culinary artistry at Ilario Vinciguerra Restaurant in Gallarate, where traditional Italian flavors meet modern creativity for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Ristorante Pizzeria Santo Stefano 4
33.2 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Pizzeria Santo Stefano 4 in Cassano Magnago – your go-to spot for delicious pizzas and seafood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Centro Commerciale Le Isole
7.8 km
Explore Centro Commerciale Le Isole, a vibrant shopping mall in Gravellona Toce with diverse shops, a food court, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Parco Commerciale Grancia
32.0 km
Explore Parco Commerciale Grancia for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience in the heart of Switzerland.
Dufry
33.2 km
Explore Dufry at Malpensa Airport for an exceptional duty-free shopping experience, featuring luxury goods and local treasures.
Herschmann Ascona
34.3 km
Explore Herschmann Ascona for exquisite Swiss watches that blend tradition with modern elegance, perfect for every discerning traveler.
Cigar Must Ascona
34.3 km
Explore Cigar Must in Ascona for an exceptional selection of premium cigars and exquisite perfumes in a charming setting.
IL Cigno
34.3 km
Explore Il Cigno in Ascona for an exceptional boutique shopping experience filled with unique fashion and elegant accessories.
Boutique Incanto
34.3 km
Discover the elegance of Boutique Incanto in Ascona, where exquisite costume jewelry meets timeless style in a charming Italian atmosphere.
Lifestyle Men & Women
34.3 km
Explore the latest trends in fashion at Lifestyle Men & Women, Ascona's boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Casa del Gusto
34.3 km
Explore Casa del Gusto, a gourmet grocery store in Ascona, offering an exquisite selection of local delicacies and international treats for every palate.
asconashopping
34.3 km
Explore Boutique BarbaRossa in Ascona for stylish footwear that combines quality, comfort, and elegance in a charming shopping experience.
BALÙ
34.3 km
Explore BALÙ in Ascona for a unique shopping experience featuring stylish clothing, handbags, and shoes that showcase local and international fashion.
trentametriquadri
34.3 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Trentametriquadri, a charming clothing boutique in Ascona, perfect for stylish men and women.
Borgonovo
34.3 km
Explore Borgonovo in Ascona for a unique clothing shopping experience that combines style, quality, and the charm of Italian fashion.
Boutique Lainé
34.4 km
Explore Boutique Lainé in Ascona for a premier shopping experience offering exclusive fashion and accessories in a charming setting.
Boutique Body Cult
34.4 km
Explore the unique styles of Boutique Body Cult in Ascona, where fashion meets local flair in a charming atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Monterosa Di Calzoni Marilena & C. S.N.C.
24.2 km
Discover the Italian café experience at Bar Monterosa in Varese, featuring delicious pastries and rich coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Monterosa.
25.0 km
Discover Bar Monterosa in Piedimulera, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Buby - Bistrot | Bar | Garten
33.7 km
Discover the charm of Buby - a delightful bistro and bar in Sorengo, serving exquisite dishes and refreshing drinks in a serene garden setting.
Bistrot & Bar Principe
33.8 km
Experience the elegance of Bistrot & Bar Principe in Lugano, where exquisite drinks meet delightful cuisine in a chic ambiance.
Havana Deck
34.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Havana Deck, the perfect spot for food and drinks in Paradiso.
Bar New York
34.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar New York in Ascona, where exquisite drinks and stunning lakeside views come together for an unforgettable evening.
Delta Beach Lounge
34.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of dining, dancing, and stunning lake views at Delta Beach Lounge in Ascona, Switzerland.
Lago Bar
34.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of scenic views and delightful drinks at Lago Bar, Ascona's premier lakeside bar.
Bad Boys - The Magic Bar
34.3 km
Discover the magic of nightlife at Bad Boys - The Magic Bar in Ascona, where enchanting performances meet vibrant cocktails for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Battello
34.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Bar Battello, Ascona's top cocktail and espresso bar on Lake Maggiore.
Piccolo Bar
34.3 km
Discover the charm of Piccolo Bar in Ascona, where exquisite cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
Tucano Bar Ascona
34.4 km
Experience the lively ambiance and diverse menu at Tucano Bar Ascona, the perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment in this picturesque Swiss town.
Bar Kiki
34.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Kiki in Ascona, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every traveler.
Bar Artés
34.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite drinks at Bar Artés, a charming bar in the heart of Ascona offering stunning lakeside views.
White Lounge Schweiz
34.5 km
Discover the tranquil elegance of White Lounge in Ascona, where relaxation meets sophistication in every sip and bite.
