Top Things to do in Lake Maggiore
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10 Historical & Heritage Tours in Lake Maggiore That You Shouldn't Miss
On the south side of the Alps, Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy. Since the climate is mild year-round, the area is filled with Mediterranean vegetation and exotic plants. Lake Maggiore was featured in Ernest Hemingway's infamous novel, A Farewell to Arms, when the protagonist and his lover must row across the lake in order to escape the Italian Carabinieri (think police in military uniforms). Here's hoping you won't have any run-ins of that nature.
Restaurants in Lake Maggiore
1. Private Tour of Orta San Giulio on Lake Orta with Micaela
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 9 reviews
Lake Orta is a fascinating corner of Italy and Piedmont. Often unheard of, lake Orta is a true gem which is worth discovering accompanied by a local who is a licensed and experienced tourist guide. This private guided tour includes an English-speaking professional guide at your disposal for the visit to the ancient village of Orta San Giulio and a guided tour on the island of San Giulio.
Inclusions: Professional local guide, Private tour
Exclusions: Drinks, Gratuities, € 4,50 per person ( return ticket - boat - for the island) is not included.
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
2. Isola Bella Fishermen's Island Private Tour from Stresa with Micaela
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Make the most of your time at Lake Maggiore with this 3-hour private tour. Visit Isola Bella -- 'Beautiful Island,' and the name does not lie -- with your own private certified guide and go to Isola dei Pescatori, Fishermen's Island, and stroll around the old Fishermen's village, learning about the history and culture of the area from your local guide.
Inclusions: Private tour, Professional guide
Exclusions: Boat ticket (approx € 12 per person) for public boat transport at scheduled times shared with others, Entrance fees for isola Bella's palace and gardens. € 17 per person, Private transportation, Transportation to Stresa where the tour begins
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
3. Private Guided Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore's Borromeo Islands
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
A customized guided tour of lake Maggiore's islands by private charter boat to explore beautiful isola Bella, the most famous of the Borromeo islands, and Fishermen's island (Pescatori) from Stresa, Pallanz or Baveno, accompanied by a personal English-speaking tour guide. Discover an incredible island - isola Bella - where art, history, architecture and exotic and mediterranean species make this place at the foot of the Alps something unique in the world. Stroll through the quaint fishermen's village on isola Pescatori to discover the old island's activities. Enjoy a private water tour around lake Maggiore's isola Madre to admire it from the lake or make the most of your trip and upgrade this private tour to include also a stop and guided visit to the charming and special isola Madre to explore its lovely botanical gardens with orange trees, agaves, palms, a beautiful Kashmir cypress and the island's 16th-century villa which houses a lovely puppet theatre collection.
Inclusions: Professional local guide, Private tour
Exclusions: Entrance fees for 2 islands option: € 17 per person (for isola Bella's palace and gardens), OR total entrance fees for 3 islands option: € 24 per person (instead of € 17 per person) if you upgrade to 3 islands option, Private boat transport
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
4. Walking tour with a private tour guide in the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
The gardens of Villa Taranto in Verbania, between Intra and Pallanza, are known the world over for their great beauty and the huge number of plant species they contain. The result of a labour of love on the part of the Scottish Captain McEacharn in 1931, the myriad of colours and scents the marvellously landscaped garden offers continues to enchant visitors from March to October. From spring to autumn there are always flowers in bloom, with “special events” for certain species which are particularly spectacular in their season: the tulip week is in April, dahlias are at their best between July and October. We will discover together this beautiful garden and we will focus on particular botanical species. From Stresa, the gardens are reachable by boat: the shipping company “Navigazione Lago Maggiore” has a landing stage called “Villa Taranto” right in front of the Gardens entrance.
Inclusions: Local guide
Exclusions: Entrance ticket: 11 euro per person.
Reviewed By jpgw2qq
My wife and I were visiting Lake Maggiore for the first time and, at our travel agent's recommendation, we took an all day tour of the three principal Borromean Islands, Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, very personable, and made us feel very comfortable throughout the day. She had already arranged the private boat which took us to each of the islands and the timing for the entire day was like clockwork, without much idle time. We had plenty of time for lunch (there are dozens of restaurant options on Isola dei Pescatori) and for shopping without any of the "what are we sitting here waiting around for?" moments. Isola Bella and Isola Madre each has a beautiful palace to visit, with artwork, interior design, architecture and fabulous gardens to explore and admire. In contrast, Isola dei Pescatori provides a glimpse of the simple life of the ordinary fishermen who inhabited it and gave it its name. We recommend this tour for anyone who hasn't already visited the Borromean Islands.
5. A unique personal tour of isola Bella's palace and gardens with Micaela
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Discover isola Bella, the jewel of lake Maggiore, on a unique private tour. Explore the sumptuous Borromeo palace and the incredible gardens on this lovely island in a peaceful atmosphere in the late afternoon ( but morning option is also possible). An experienced local tour guide will meet you in Stresa at your hotel ( if centrally located) or at the pier in Stresa to reach isola Bella by private boat and discover all its beauty at a lovely time of the day when most of the crowds have usually gone. Your private boat will tour around isola Bella to enable you to enjoy beautiful views of the spectacular 17th-century gardens built on ten levels and see the whole palace from the boat. Your personal guide will show you the richly decorated rooms and the grottos telling you more about the founders and owners of isola Bella's fairy-tale palace and will then take you on a guided stroll through the lovely gardens and the tiny village on the island. You will then head back to Stresa mainland.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Private English-speaking tour guide
Exclusions: ENTRANCE FEES for palace and gardens are not included. € 17 per person to be paid on the day
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
6. The charming Borromean Islands Private Tour. The sleeping beauties in winter
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This is a nice tour to discover the famous Borromean islands off season, when they are like Sleeping Beauty and the Borromeo's properties - palaces and gardens - are closed to the public, but the two lovely villages on isola Bella and Fishermen's island can be discovered. Being accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you will be able to enjoy your visit, learning more about the area, the islands' old history, the aristocrats who ruled over the area, local life in the past times as well as nowadays.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Private guide
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
7. A special guided tour of isola Bella & Fishermen's island with expert guide
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Explore all the treasures hidden in a 17th-century palace on isola Bella and the quaint village on Fishermen's island with an experienced tour guide of lake Maggiore! You will be guided through the historic rooms of an amazing palace and will be shown spectacular gardens built on levels strolling through species of flowers and plants from all continents, surrounded by friendly peacocks. This will be a private tour just for you and your party
Inclusions: Private local guide
Exclusions: Entrance tickets for isola Bella's palace € 17 per person, Boat transport € 11 per person by scheduled boat or private boat transport is possible too
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
8. The three gems of lake Maggiore - the Borromean islands on a private guided tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Discovering a treasure in lake Maggiore: the beautiful Borromean islands with their stunning palaces and gardens. Your tour guide will take you on a special tour that will enable you to step back in time. Paintings, tapestries, Murano glass chandeliers, portraits, period furniture, gorgeous views and beatifully maintained gardens will surprise you on these fabulous islands: isola Bella and isola Madre.
Inclusions: Qualified local tour guide, Personal tour
Exclusions: Entrance tickets: € 24 per person, Transport: € 17 per person
Reviewed By Cecelia K
My husband and I recently spent a week in the Lago Maggiore area, after not having gone anywhere since March. We were and still are very concerned about guarding against COVID and wanted to take as many precautions as we could, while still enjoying a one-week getaway. We were distancing ourselves, eating outside whenever possible, wearing our masks, and always had sanitizing supplies with us. We had never before been to Italy and we had never before hired a private guide and we were not sure what to expect. We gave it a try, especially so we wouldn’t expose ourselves to too many people too close together for too long. We first read about Micaela from Tripadvisor, but then we read about a lot more of what she had to offer on her website. She was very responsive to all of our emails and questions. Well, hiring Micaela was our best decision! We spent two whole days and two partial days with her and we are so glad we did. It was soooo worth it! For our first tour with her, we explored the three Borromean Islands, getting around with a private boat. We met at the boat landing at the Piazzale Lido near the cable car to Mt. Mottarone (our hotel was conveniently nearby). Micaela shared her knowledge of the rich history, art, and culture of the area, as well as her extensive knowledge of the local flora. The palace and its history on Isola Bella was amazing, as well as the very beautiful ten-level terraced and sculptured gardens, where we also learned about the citron. We ate a most delicious lunch on Isola Pescatore (our best meal)! This island was so quaint and chock-full of character. At Isola Madre, we much enjoyed visiting the country villa and equally beautiful, but different English-style gardens. It was a fabulous day! We also took a private boat to Caterina del Sasso (partial day), which was stunning. We learned how the monastery came to be, about the frescoes, the religious order and more. It’s rock-hugging location is awesome. For our off-the-beaten-path tour, we took a very pleasant walk to the outskirts of Orta San Giulio, seeing the non-touristy side - how people live and what they do, learning more about this area and ending up at a very small typical old-time village. We then walked along lovely Lake Orta to the charming town center of Orta San Giulio. From there, we took a boat to the small island not far away and toured the beautiful basilica and complex there, learning about the frescoes and the lives of the martyrs. The churches here are real gems. For our last tour, we took a sunset cruise, again using a private boat. Micaela told us about many of the enchanting villas along the coast and more. She provided us with a bottle of wine, complete with snacks, while we watched the changing colors of the sunset as it played out in the sky, clouds, water, mountains and off of buildings. It was so relaxing and serene and we loved every minute! Our boat captain was also very nice, polite and accommodating. Micaela and the captain were very good about wearing their masks. We took them off during times when there was plenty of distancing room. Micaela was professional and knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, personable and thoughtful and spoke great English. Hiring her so greatly enhanced our trip tenfold and we definitely recommend her without hesitation! [Her husband is also a private driver, so they would make an excellent pair, if you needed that as well.] We will always remember her and cherish this wonderful trip!!! Grazie mille, Micaela! ????????☀️????
9. Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Ride an air-conditioned bus from Milan to the town of Stresa; from there, enjoy a pleasant boat cruise on Lake Maggiore. Explore the fascinating Borromean Islands including Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori. First stop at Isola Bella and visit the majestic Palazzo Borromeo with its exquisite Italian Gardens and outdoor cafe area. Stop for lunch at Isola dei Pescatori and you'll return to Stresa where, after a visit of the town, you'll board the coach back to Milan.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Boat ride on Lake Maggiore, Visit of Isola Bella, Visit of Isola dei Pescatori, Visit of Stresa, Entrances for Palazzo Borromeo
Exclusions: Meals and drinks, Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Reviewed By kathypJ4816EP
Very much enjoyed the day tour to Como. Our guide Frank was very knowledgeable and friendly. The bus ride, walking tour of Como, boat cruise of Lake Como, and 2 hour stop in Bellagio were great. I only wish there was more time to see Varenna...we were only there for 25 minutes.
10. 4-Day Italian Lakes and Verona Tour from Milan
Overall Ratings
4.4 based on 16 reviews
Visit four of the must-see lakes in the Italian Lake district as well as the city of Verona, on a 4-day tour from Milan! With a mix of free time and tours, explore the tranquil hideaway of Lake Orta, mountain-framed Lake Maggiore and glamorous Lake Como. Discover elegant lakeside towns around Lake Garda – Italy’s largest lake – and see Juliet’s House and more on a Verona tour. Boat rides on the lakes are included as well as 4-star hotel accommodation in the lively towns of Como, Verona and either Brescia or Bergamo.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional guide, 3 nights of accommodation, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Boat Trip
Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, City Tax
Reviewed By E5420ZMdenisk
I loved it, the tour guide Ali was a very nice person and answered all questions, with sufficient knowledge and detail. Recommended.
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