Stresa and the Borromean Islands: Italian Lakes Private Tour

This private day trip from Lake Como promises a scenic blend of Italy’s most picturesque lakes, elegant islands, and Swiss surprises. Covering Lago Maggiore, the Borromean Islands, and even Lugano in a single 9-hour experience, it’s a comprehensive taste of Italy’s lakeside elegance and Alpine charm.

What we love most about this tour is how seamlessly it balances multiple highlights — from the charming town of Stresa to the opulent palaces and lush gardens of the islands. It’s perfect for travelers who want a curated, hassle-free exploration of some of Italy’s most iconic lakes and a touch of Swiss sophistication.

One potential consideration is the pace; with so much packed into one day, you’ll want to be prepared for a fairly full itinerary. This tour is ideal for those who love scenic drives, historic sights, and photo opportunities, and who value the convenience of a private vehicle and guided insights. If that sounds like you, then this trip is well worth considering.

Key Points

• All-inclusive private experience with a knowledgeable driver and ferry passes
• Visit three distinctive islands with options to explore palaces, gardens, or relax and dine
• Combines Italian lakes with Swiss highlights for a unique cross-border adventure
• Perfect for photo lovers with stunning views from every stop
• Flexible itinerary with free time in Lugano to explore at your own pace
• No stress logistics — hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport included

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a flexible, curated way to see some of the most beautiful corners of Italy’s northern lakes and a taste of Swiss flair. Starting from your hotel near Lake Como, your driver — in a comfortable, air-conditioned van with Wi-Fi — will whisk you away to Lago Maggiore, one of Italy’s largest lakes. The drive itself is scenic, with views of the surrounding mountains and charming villages.

What’s special about this trip is how it combines natural beauty with historical charm. Stresa, the starting point, was once a modest fishing village transformed by Italian aristocrats into a resort town with elegant lakeside promenades and historic villas. Then, hopping onto ferries to visit the Borromean Islands amplifies this sense of elegance, with options to explore the regal Palazzo Borromeo or lush botanical gardens, depending on your interests.

After a few hours immersed in island life, the journey continues across the border into Switzerland, where Lugano awaits. Here, you’ll have about two hours to explore this lakeside city, soaking in its Swiss-Italian mix of culture, architecture, and lakeside views. This cross-border element adds an extra dimension to the trip, making it more than just a typical lakeside tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Drive to Lago Maggiore

Your day begins with hotel pickup — whether in a hotel or Airbnb — and a comfortable drive taking roughly an hour or so depending on your starting point. Along the way, your driver, often praised for their friendly and informative approach (with reviews mentioning guides like Mauricio), sets the tone for a day of relaxed exploration.

Stresa: The Gateway to the Borromean Islands

Once in Stresa, a stroll through this charming town offers a glimpse of Italy’s lakeside leisurely lifestyle. It’s a place where quaint cafes sit side by side with historic villas, and the atmosphere is both elegant and welcoming. If you’re a fan of historic towns with scenic backdrops, Stresa is a perfect starting point.

Ferry Ride to the Islands

The highlight of the day is the ferry hop between Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre. These tiny islands are a showcase of Italian elegance and natural beauty, each with its unique charm:

• Isola Bella: Known for the majestic Palazzo Borromeo and immaculate gardens that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Visitors often describe the gardens as ‘meticulously manicured’ and the architecture as ‘opulent and regal’. You can choose to explore the palace, stroll through the lush grounds, or simply enjoy the views.

• Isola dei Pescatori: The fishing island offers a more laid-back vibe, with narrow streets, local seafood restaurants, and authentic Italian charm. Many reviews mention how it’s a lovely place to sit down for lunch or a coffee, soaking in the rustic atmosphere.

• Isola Madre: The botanical gardens here are a treat for plant lovers, showcasing exotic plants, colorful flowers, and even some wildlife. Reviewers highlight the gardens as a ‘delight for lovers of plants and animals’, making it a highlight for those interested in nature.

Lunch and Free Time on the Islands

You’ll have the chance to enjoy a leisurely lunch on one of the islands or simply take photos of the stunning scenery. The trip is described as “highly instagrammable,” so bring your camera! The flexibility to hop on and off the ferries means you can tailor your visit to your interests, whether it’s exploring gardens, visiting palaces, or relaxing by the water.

Cross Over to Lugano, Switzerland

After lunch, your driver will take you across the border into Switzerland. The drive is scenic, often praised for its smoothness and the driver’s helpful advice on how to spend your time in Lugano. You’ll have approximately two hours here to explore the lakeside, enjoy the architecture, or grab a Swiss chocolate — an insider tip from a reviewer who appreciated the local recommendations.

The Value of the Experience

At its core, this tour offers a great balance of convenience and depth. The private vehicle, ferry passes, and flexible itinerary allow you to enjoy your day without the stress of booking transport or navigating schedules. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a curated experience but still enjoy some personal freedom.

Pricing, when broken down, provides good value considering the inclusions: ferry rides, a private driver, and two countries’ worth of sights. While lunch isn’t included, the opportunity to choose your spot on the islands and enjoy local cuisine adds to the overall experience.

Why This Tour Works Well

You’ll love the seamless transition from Italy’s lakeside elegance to Swiss lakeside vibrancy. The guided insights, especially from friendly and knowledgeable guides like Mauricio, help you understand the significance of each stop. The islands themselves are small but packed with visual and cultural interest — perfect for memorable photos and relaxed exploration.

What’s to Keep in Mind

Since it’s a packed 9-hour day, be prepared for some walking and variable pacing. The ferry rides are short but frequent — so comfortable shoes and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) are recommended. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, due to the nature of island exploring and ferry access.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviews highlight the quality of guides and the stunning views. One traveler praised Mauricio as an “excellent guide and driver,” who provided tailored suggestions on which islands to visit and how to efficiently get around since ferry schedules are informal. They also appreciated the advice on local Swiss chocolates, making the drop in Lugano extra special.

Another review mentioned the “amazing lunch and afternoon on the islands,” emphasizing how photogenic and relaxing the environment is. Travelers often point out that this tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded, scenic day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Lake Como to Stresa, the Borromean Islands, and Lugano offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and cross-border charm. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a scenic, culturally enriching experience with the comfort of private transportation and flexible exploration time.

The combination of island visits, stunning gardens, historic villas, and a Swiss lakeside city makes it a well-rounded day trip that feels both luxurious and authentic. The knowledgeable guides and the picturesque scenery ensure that what you see will stay with you long after the day ends.

For those who want a hassle-free way to enjoy Italy’s lakes and a touch of Switzerland, this tour strikes a great balance between value, comfort, and memorable sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of island exploring and ferry access.

How long is the drive from Lake Como to Lago Maggiore?
The driver will pick you up from your hotel, and the drive to Lago Maggiore typically takes about an hour, depending on your starting point.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver, ferryboat passes for three islands, and free time in Lugano. Lunch is not included.

Can I customize the islands I visit?
The tour offers flexibility — you can choose to explore the palaces, gardens, or relax and dine on the islands. The ferry hop-on, hop-off system allows for some personal customization.

How much time do I have in Lugano?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours to explore the lakeside and enjoy the city’s sights and local treats.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is best booked ahead, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.

This private tour is a wonderful way to see the best of Italy’s lakes with minimal fuss, guided by friendly experts, making it perfect for those after a scenic, enriching day.