Isola Bella: A Jewel of Lake Maggiore
Discover the enchanting Isola Bella, a stunning island on Lake Maggiore, rich in history, gardens, and breathtaking views.
Isola Bella, a stunning island on Lake Maggiore, captivates visitors with its opulent gardens, historic architecture, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination in Italy.
A brief summary to Isola Bella
- Stresa, Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, IT
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens.
- Consider taking a guided tour of Palazzo Borromeo to fully appreciate its history and art.
- Bring a camera; the views and gardens are incredibly photogenic.
- Try the local cuisine at one of the island's cafes for an authentic Italian dining experience.
Getting There
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Train
From Lugano, head to the Lugano Train Station (Stazione di Lugano). You can take a local bus (Bus Line 1, 2, or 3) if you're far from the station. Once at the train station, purchase a ticket to Stresa. The journey typically takes about 2 hours with one transfer, usually in Milan. After arriving at Stresa Train Station, exit the station and follow the signs to the ferry terminal, which is a short walk (approximately 10 minutes) down the road. At the ferry terminal, buy a ticket for the boat to Isola Bella, which is a popular stop. Enjoy the scenic ride to the island.
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Ferry
If you are already in Stresa, head directly to the ferry terminal located near the waterfront. There are clear signs to guide you from the town center. Purchase a ticket for the ferry to Isola Bella. The ferry ride lasts about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy the views of Lake Maggiore as you approach the island.
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Bus
From Lugano, take a bus to the nearby city of Locarno. You can use Bus Line 1 or 2 to reach the Locarno bus station. From Locarno, board a train to Stresa. Upon arriving at Stresa, walk to the ferry terminal and take a ferry to Isola Bella as described above.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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