The Borromean Islands, a stunning group of lake islands on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, are just a short boat ride from Stresa.

Nestled within a broad gulf, these islands offer picturesque villages, historical villas, and lush gardens, making them a must-see destination when exploring northern Italy.

Exploring the Borromean Islands

Visit to the Borromean Islands is a highlight of any trip to Lake Maggiore. The islands are best reached by boat, typically departing from Stresa or Verbania, though smaller boats from other local ports are also available. Three of the islands are open to the public: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori, while Isola San Giovanni remains private and off-limits to visitors.

A popular way to explore the islands is by purchasing a ferry ticket that allows you to hop off at each of the three islands on a scenic circuit. The ticket costs around €22, and entry to the two villas adds another €20 per person. While the price may seem steep, especially for larger families, it’s an experience that is well worth the investment, offering beautiful views, historical landmarks, and charming atmospheres throughout the day.

Isola Bella (Beautiful Island)

Isola Bella, the most visited of the Borromean Islands, is renowned for it's stunning 17th-century Baroque palace, the Palazzo Borromeo, and it's meticulously designed gardens. The island also features a charming, albeit small, village with narrow cobbled streets lined by historic houses. If you’re pressed for time and can only visit one of the Borromean Islands, Isola Bella is undoubtedly the top choice.

The Palazzo Borromeo is a remarkable example of Baroque opulence, and it's interiors, lavishly decorated with fine artworks, create a striking contrast to the quaint village streets. Each of the main rooms in the palace is uniquely themed, showcasing treasures such as rare tapestries, musical instruments, and other artifacts. A highlight of the palace is the cave rooms beneath it, which offer a more modest yet captivating setting with sea-themed decor.

Isola Madre (Mother Island)

Located further north and more centrally on Lake Maggiore, Isola Madre is renowned for its lush botanical gardens and the 18th-century palazzo that sits on the island. While the palazzo is more modest compared to the grandeur of Isola Bella’s palace, it remains an impressive structure, carefully restored and furnished in period style.

The real highlight of Isola Madre, however, lies in it's gardens. These beautifully landscaped grounds feature a rich variety of plants from across the globe, making it a truly exotic destination. As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll encounter not only a stunning array of flora but also the island's resident peacocks and parrots, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Isola dei Pescatori (Island of the Fishermen)

Smaller than both Isola Madre and Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori is home to a quaint, traditional village that occupies nearly the entire island. Despite it's small size, the village is full of charm, with narrow, winding streets offering a glimpse into the island’s peaceful way of life. Isola dei Pescatori is the perfect place to pause for lunch, as it boasts more restaurants than the other islands, making it ideal for enjoying a leisurely meal by the lake.

Rocca di Angera

Located south of the Borromean Islands, Rocca di Angera is a historic fortress on a rocky promontory on the eastern side of Lake Maggiore. Although a bit farther from the main islands, it’s an essential part of the Borromean experience and can be reached by boat from Stresa. The fortress is made up of five main buildings: the Castellana Tower, the Scaligera Wing, the Viscontea Wing, the Borromeo Wing, and the Giovanni Visconti Tower. One of the highlights of the visit is the Hall of Justice, which features 13th-century frescoes.

Nearby Attractions

The town of Stresa, located on the lake’s western shore, is the primary departure point for ferries to the Borromean Islands. It’s also an attractive town in it's own right, with plenty of charm and things to see. The Borromean Islands are a must-see when visiting Lake Maggiore, one of the most famous lakes in northern Italy.