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.
Do you manage this location?
Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more
Activate your presenceOther nearby places you may find interesting
Getting There
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Discover more about Isola Bella
Explore the best of what Isola Bella has to offer
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Lugano
Discover Lugano, where Swiss elegance meets Italian charm, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and culinary delights in a breathtaking lakeside setting.
Tell me more about LuganoExperience the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage at Un Sogno di Lago, the must-visit open-air museum by Lake Maggiore.
Discover the historical grandeur and stunning gardens of Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella, a cultural gem in the heart of Lake Maggiore, Italy.