Discover the Enchantment of the Borromean Islands

Explore the stunning Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, a perfect blend of nature, history, and Italian culture.

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Borromean Islands

Nestled on the serene waters of Lake Maggiore, the Borromean Islands are a captivating destination for tourists seeking natural beauty, historical charm, and cultural richness. Comprising three main islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori—each offers a unique experience, from opulent gardens and palaces to quaint fishing villages and stunning landscapes, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Stresa.

A brief summary to Borromean Islands

Stresa, Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, IT

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Consider purchasing a combined boat ticket for easier access to all three islands.
Don’t miss the garden tours on Isola Bella; they are particularly stunning in spring.
Try the local cuisine on Isola dei Pescatori, especially the fresh fish dishes.
Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes.

Getting There

Train

From Locarno, walk to the Locarno train station, which is located at Piazza Stazione. Once at the station, purchase a ticket to Stresa. Trains run regularly, so check the schedule for the next departure. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours with one or two changes, usually in Bellinzona and then in Domodossola. Upon arriving at Stresa station, exit the train and head towards the ferry terminal, which is a short walk away.
Ferry

After reaching Stresa, proceed to the ferry terminal located near the train station. Purchase a ticket for a ferry to the Borromean Islands. Ferries operate frequently during the day, and the trip to the islands is scenic and takes about 30 minutes. Be sure to check the ferry schedule to plan your visit. Once you arrive at the islands, you can explore the beautiful gardens and landmarks.
Walking

If you are already in Stresa, from the town center, walk towards the lakefront. Follow the path along the lake until you reach the ferry terminal. The walk is quite pleasant and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's about a 15-minute walk from the central square of Stresa to the ferry terminal.

Discover more about Borromean Islands

The Borromean Islands, located in the picturesque Lake Maggiore, are a stunning archipelago that draws visitors with their breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Comprising three main islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori—each island offers its own unique charm and attractions. Isola Bella is famous for its extravagant palace and terraced gardens that boast a stunning array of flowers and plants, providing a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls or photo opportunities. The palace itself, adorned with intricate frescoes and opulent decor, is a testament to the Borromeo family's historical significance in the region. Isola Madre, the largest of the three islands, is known for its tranquil botanical gardens and the enchanting 16th-century villa. Visitors can wander through the lush greenery, admire exotic plants and enjoy the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Meanwhile, Isola dei Pescatori offers a picturesque fishing village vibe, complete with narrow streets, charming restaurants, and local markets, where visitors can savor fresh seafood and traditional Italian cuisine. Traveling between the islands is easy, with regular boat services connecting them, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The scenic boat rides across the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore add to the overall experience, making every journey a memorable one. The Borromean Islands are not just a feast for the eyes; they are a cultural treasure trove that invites tourists to immerse themselves in the region's history and beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, the Borromean Islands are sure to leave you enchanted.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Piazza IV Novembre

1.9 km

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza IV Novembre, a charming square in Baveno, Italy, offering stunning lake views and delightful local cuisine.

Piazza Luigi Cadorna

2.4 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

2.5 km

Discover the charm of Piazza Marconi in Stresa, Italy, where stunning lake views, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine await every traveler.

Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo

14.9 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

15.1 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

26.2 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

29.6 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

30.0 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

31.4 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

31.4 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

31.7 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

33.0 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Monte Rosa, a majestic mountain range in Italy's Province of Varese, perfect for nature lovers.

Piazza Architetto Mario Chiattone

33.1 km

Explore Piazza Architetto Mario Chiattone in Lugano - a serene square blending culture, architecture, and local life amidst stunning Swiss scenery.

Swissminiatur

33.1 km

Discover the beauty of Switzerland in miniature at Swissminiatur, where iconic landmarks come to life in a stunning open-air museum in Melide.

Hotel Eden Roc

33.3 km

Discover the luxurious charm of Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona, where stunning lake views and exceptional service create an unforgettable getaway.

Unmissable attractions to see

Isola dei Pescatori

0.7 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.

Palazzo Borromeo

0.9 km

Discover the historical grandeur and stunning gardens of Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, a cultural gem in the heart of Lake Maggiore, Italy.

Isola Bella

0.9 km

Discover the enchanting beauty of Isola Bella, an island paradise on Lake Maggiore filled with stunning gardens and rich history.

Orto botanico Isola Madre

1.1 km

Discover the breathtaking Orto Botanico Isola Madre, a serene botanical garden on Lake Maggiore, where exotic plants and historical charm await.

Giardini Botanici dell'Isola Madre

1.1 km

Explore the lush beauty and historical charm of Isola Madre's Botanical Gardens, a serene getaway on Lake Maggiore.

Piazzale Lido

1.5 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

1.5 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Borromean Islands with guided tours from Un Sogno di Lago in Stresa.

Un Sogno di Lago-visite guidate isole Borromee

Stresa

1.7 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

1.7 km

Discover the beauty of Lungolago di Stresa, a scenic lakeside promenade offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape in Stresa, Italy.

Lungolago di Baveno

1.8 km

Explore the scenic Lungolago di Baveno, where stunning lake views meet charming local culture in this enchanting lakeside promenade.

Piazza Guglielmo Marconi

2.3 km

Discover the beauty of Piazza Guglielmo Marconi in Stresa, a serene park offering stunning lake views and a taste of Italian culture.

Viale delle Magnolie

2.6 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

2.8 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

3.7 km

Experience the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage at Un Sogno di Lago, the must-visit open-air museum by Lake Maggiore.

Un Sogno di Lago -guida turistica lago Maggiore

Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto

3.8 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

14.5 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Hotel Restaurant Monterosa in Ameno.

Crotto Valtellina

28.8 km

Discover authentic Northern Italian cuisine at Crotto Valtellina in Malnate—where tradition meets flavor.

Trattoria Monterosa

29.7 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Monterosa in Serravalle Sesia – where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

Piccolo Bistrot

29.9 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Piccolo Bistrot in Jerago con Orago - where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.

Osteria della Pista

30.3 km

Discover Osteria della Pista in Casorate Sempione: A charming Italian restaurant offering authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.

Osteria Piccolo Stelvio

30.4 km

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Piccolo Stelvio in Gornate Superiore - where every meal tells a story.

DU BAI Coffee, Drink and Restaurant

30.5 km

Discover the taste of Italy at DU BAI Coffee, Drink and Restaurant – where every bite tells a story.

La Mimosa Ristorante

31.8 km

Discover La Mimosa Ristorante in Gallarate - your destination for authentic Italian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and gourmet pizzas.

Ristorante Da Capo

32.4 km

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine with stunning views at Ristorante Da Capo in beautiful Ascona.

Collinetta

32.5 km

Discover Collinetta in Ascona – where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore.

Trattoria del Ponte

32.5 km

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria del Ponte in Gallarate, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

Ristorante Grotto del Pep

32.6 km

Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Ristorante Grotto del Pep in Lugano – where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

Trattoria Posteria Torba

32.7 km

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Posteria Torba in Gornate Olona - where every dish tells a story.

Ristorante Cafè Tiro a Volo

32.8 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Cafè Tiro a Volo in Cardano al Campo, where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

Ristorante Locanda del Boschetto

33.1 km

Discover the exquisite blend of Italian and Swiss cuisine at Ristorante Locanda del Boschetto in beautiful Lugano.

coast Boutique

33.6 km

33.7 km

Discover the tranquil elegance of White Lounge in Ascona, where relaxation meets sophistication in every sip and bite.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Borromean Islands with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Discover the Enchantment of the Borromean Islands

A brief summary to Borromean Islands

Local tips

Getting There

Train

Ferry

Walking

Unlock the Best of Borromean Islands

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Borromean Islands

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Piazza IV Novembre

Piazza Luigi Cadorna

Piazza Marconi

Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo

Piazza Mario Motta, 3

Santa Maria Maggiore

Parco Scherrer

Isole di Brissago

Swing the World

Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola

Parco San Grato

Monte Rosa

Piazza Architetto Mario Chiattone

Swissminiatur

Hotel Eden Roc

Unmissable attractions to see

Isola dei Pescatori

Palazzo Borromeo

Isola Bella

Orto botanico Isola Madre

Giardini Botanici dell'Isola Madre

Piazzale Lido

Un Sogno di Lago-visite guidate isole Borromee

Stresa

Lungolago di Stresa

Lungolago di Baveno

Piazza Guglielmo Marconi

Viale delle Magnolie

Museo del Paesaggio

Un Sogno di Lago -guida turistica lago Maggiore

Giardini Botanici di Villa Taranto

Essential places to dine

The hotel restaurant Monterosa

Crotto Valtellina

Trattoria Monterosa

Piccolo Bistrot

Osteria della Pista

Osteria Piccolo Stelvio

DU BAI Coffee, Drink and Restaurant

La Mimosa Ristorante

Ristorante Da Capo

Collinetta

Trattoria del Ponte

Ristorante Grotto del Pep

Trattoria Posteria Torba

Ristorante Cafè Tiro a Volo

Ristorante Locanda del Boschetto

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Centro Commerciale Le Isole

Parco Commerciale Grancia

Herschmann Ascona

Cigar Must Ascona

IL Cigno

Boutique Incanto

Lifestyle Men & Women

Casa del Gusto

asconashopping

BALÙ

trentametriquadri

Borgonovo

Boutique Lainé

Boutique Body Cult

coast Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Monterosa Di Calzoni Marilena & C. S.N.C.

Bar Monterosa.

Buby - Bistrot | Bar | Garten