Stresa and the Borromean Islands: Private Tour from Como

A short ride from lake Como, Stresa is where the mild climate and ornate gardens of Italy meet the snow-capped Alps of Switzerland – don’t miss this spectacular day trip!

Highlights

• Discover Lago Maggiore, the Borromean Islands and Lake Lugano all in one day with a private guided tour
• Travel in the footsteps of the European “Grand Tour”, where British aristocracy visited en route from Florence to Switzerland
• Take in some of the most stunning villas and gardens of italy against the backdrop of the snow-capped Swiss Alps

Description

Your driver will collect you from your Lake Como area hotel. Enjoy a scenic drive to Lago Maggiore – one of the largest lakes in Italy known for its stunning Alpine backdrop and elegant lakefront promenades. Once a small fishing village, Stresa and its nearby Borromean islands were developed by the wealthy Borromeo family in the 16th century. 

After a short stroll in Stresa, you will embark on a tour by ferryboat of the Islands, hopping off and on at one or all three of the tiny island towns of Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre.

Choose whether to visit the picture-perfectly manicured Palazzo Borromeo and surrounding gardens or visit the Botanical Gardens of Isola Madre, a delight for admirers of exotic plants and animals. Or, sit back and have lunch on any of the three postcard perfect islands and be sure to take plenty of photos, as this trip is highly “instagrammable”!

After lunch you’ll meet your driver once again and a short ride will take us across the Italian/Swiss border. Our next stop will be Lugano, pearl of “Italian Switzerland” where you’ll have about 2 hours to explore the lakeside before we make the journey back to Como.

Know before you book

• Due to the route covered and/or the means of transportation used, it is not possible to participate in this tour using a wheelchair, scooter, or other aid. Please contact us to inquire about customized tour options for guests with mobility challenges

Know before you go

• Tour departs rain or shine
• During all months we highly recommend bringing sunblock and a hat
• Come with comfortable clothing

Cancellation Policy

• All cancellations must be received in writing. Cancellations made up to 48 hours prior to the start time will be refunded in full. No refunds will be made for cancellations with less than 48 hours notice or failure to arrive at the meeting point on time (no-show).