Lago Maggiore: 3 Borromean Islands Boat from Feriolo

Planning a trip to Lake Maggiore? If you’re drawn to scenic lakes, charming islands, and a touch of Italian elegance, a boat tour of the Borromean Islands might be just what you need. This particular excursion, offered from Feriolo, hits a sweet spot between affordability and a well-rounded experience, making it appealing whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want a relaxed day on the water.

What really stands out about this tour are the chance to visit the grand Borromeo Palace and its magnificent Italian Gardens on Isola Bella and the opportunity to explore the quaint fishing village on Isola Pescatori. Plus, the price—around $20 per person—is surprisingly reasonable for a full-day adventure on the lake. That said, it’s worth noting that admission tickets for the palace and gardens aren’t included, so you’ll need a little extra for entry.

A potential consideration is the minimum number of participants required for the tour to run—15 adults—so if you’re traveling during a quieter season, double-check availability. Also, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues, given the nature of island exploration and boat travel. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, gardens, and small villages, and who are okay with a flexible schedule.

All in all, this tour is a great pick for anyone eager to soak up Lake Maggiore’s beauty without a hefty price tag, especially if you’re comfortable with some basic walking and want a taste of authentic island life.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $20, this tour offers a lot of value for seeing three beautiful islands.
• Highlights: Visit grandiose gardens, a historic palace, and explore charming fishing villages.
• Flexible Exploring Time: Includes free time on Pescatori and Madrea islands for shopping, strolling, or swimming.
• Multi-language Host: The captain speaks several languages, making the trip accessible for diverse travelers.
• Weather Dependency: The trip depends on good weather and sufficient participants; refunds are available if conditions aren’t suitable.
• Not Suitable for All: Mobility issues aren’t accommodated, and admission tickets for some sites aren’t included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Borromean Islands Boat Tour

If you’re considering this boat trip, you’ll want to know what to expect at each stop and how the overall experience feels. We’ll walk through the itinerary, the highlights, and some practical tips, so you can decide if it’s a good fit.

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off from Via Giuseppe Mazzini in Feriolo, a charming village that serves as a quiet starting point for the adventure. The departure times vary, so check availability in advance—generally, expect to be on the water for about 7 hours. The boat is operated by Isole Lago Maggiore s.n.c., with a multilingual captain who can navigate in English, Italian, German, and French. This broad language offering makes the experience more inclusive, especially for international visitors.

First Stop: Isola Bella

The first stop is Isola Bella, the most famous of the trio. Known for its ornate palace and lush Italian Gardens, this island is a showcase of grandeur. While the admission ticket for the palace and gardens isn’t included, you can purchase entry separately if you wish to explore inside. The highlight here is the stunning baroque architecture and terraced gardens overlooking the lake, which make for perfect photo opportunities.

You’ll have about 2 hours on this island. That’s enough time for a leisurely walk through the gardens, soaking up the views, and perhaps browsing the small shops or grabbing a snack at the cafe. From several reviews, travelers appreciated the beauty of the gardens and the opportunity to admire the Palace’s elaborate façade. Some noted that the gardens are particularly well-kept and the views are breathtaking—a real highlight.

Second Stop: Isola dei Pescatori

Next, the boat glides over to Isola Pescatori, the “island of fishermen.” This island offers a stark contrast to the grandeur of Bella. It’s a small, picturesque village with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a lively, authentic vibe.

You’ll spend about 2 hours here, which is perfect for wandering and soaking in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention how charming and “authentic” the village feels, with plenty of small shops selling local products like honey, olive oil, or handmade crafts. It’s also the most picturesque spot for a relaxed lunch or snack, though you’ll need to budget separately for eating out.

Travelers love the chance to explore on their own, and some even take a quick swim in the lake if weather permits. The laid-back vibe and beautiful scenery often make this stop a favorite for those seeking a more genuine, less touristy experience.

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Third Stop: Isola Madre

The last island is Isola Madre, renowned for its English-style botanical garden. The garden, filled with exotic plants and vibrant flowers, offers a peaceful retreat and a wonderful photo backdrop. If gardening or nature is your thing, you’ll enjoy strolling through the lush landscape.

For a different experience, you might opt to take a dip in the lake before heading back. The water here is clear and inviting, and some reviews mention that swimming is a pleasant way to cool off after a day of sightseeing.

You’ll have around 2 hours at this island, which balances relaxation and exploration. The gardens are often praised for their beauty and variety, making this a highlight for plant lovers.

Returning to Feriolo

After the island visits, the boat cruises back to Feriolo. The journey is an excellent way to wind down, with views of the lakeside villages and the surrounding mountains. The entire experience, from start to finish, is approximately 7 hours—an ideal length for a full but not exhausting day.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Timing and group size are worth considering. The tour operates only if at least 15 adults sign up, so check your booking in advance. The duration of approximately 7 hours includes time on each island, so pace yourself accordingly.

Comfort is key: bring comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture those unforgettable views. If you plan to swim, pack your swimwear, towel, and maybe even a change of clothes.

The boat’s multilingual captain makes communication easy, which is especially helpful if you’re not fluent in Italian. Be aware that admission tickets for the palace and gardens are extra—so if you want to go inside, budget about €10-15 more per site.

Weather can make a difference—the trip relies heavily on good conditions. If the weather is stormy or very windy, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Group Size and Accessibility

While the tour is a fantastic way to see the islands, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, given the uneven terrain and boat transfers. Keep this in mind if you have mobility concerns.

Cost and Value

The main draw is the price point—just $20 per person for a full day of exploring three islands. Considering the boat ride, the scenic views, and the opportunity for free time on Pescatori and Madre, it offers excellent value for those on a budget. However, remember that entrance to the palace and gardens is extra, which adds to the total cost if you wish to go inside.

The Authentic Charm of Lake Maggiore’s Islands

What makes this tour special is the mix of grand and intimate experiences. You get to stand amidst the grandeur of Isola Bella’s palaces and gardens, then contrast that with the simple charm of Pescatori’s village. The boat ride itself is scenic, with panoramic views of the lake’s shimmering waters and the surrounding mountains—a sight that never gets old.

Many travelers mention how the views are truly stunning, especially from the boat, where the landscape unfolds in all directions. It’s a feast for the eyes, whether you’re a landscape lover or just seeking a peaceful escape.

The free time on the islands means you can tailor the day to your interests—whether it’s shopping for souvenirs, relaxing in the gardens, or taking a quick swim. And for those who enjoy a bit of wandering and discovering hidden corners, this tour offers plenty of opportunities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers looking for a cost-effective way to see the Borromean Islands without booking multiple tours or spending a lot. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, are comfortable with some walking, and want a snapshot of Lake Maggiore’s highlights.

If you’re visiting during good weather and want a flexible, relaxed day with plenty of stunning views, this is a strong choice. However, if you’re after a more structured, indoor experience or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children who enjoy boat rides and exploring small villages will likely find it enjoyable. Just be prepared for the walking and bring essentials like water and sun protection.

Are admission tickets to the palace and gardens included?
No, the ticket for inside Isola Bella’s palace and gardens is not included—they are purchased separately if you want to go inside.

Can I swim in Lake Maggiore during the tour?
Yes, some reviews mention the opportunity for a swim on Isola Madre or in the lake itself, weather permitting.

What languages does the captain speak?
The captain speaks multiple languages, including English, Italian, German, and French, making the tour accessible for many travelers.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Don’t forget your ID if you plan to buy tickets or souvenirs.

How long is the entire tour?
About 7 hours, including travel time and free exploration on each island.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes. If the weather is too bad or the minimum number of participants isn’t met, the tour might be canceled with a full refund.

Can I take my own food or drinks?
The tour doesn’t specify restrictions, but bringing snacks and drinks for the boat ride is a good idea. Eating on the islands is generally fine, though you’ll need to buy separately.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to terrain and boat transfers.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At $20 per person, the price is quite reasonable for the scope of exploring multiple islands and enjoying the scenic boat ride.

In summary, this tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to experience Lake Maggiore’s highlights without breaking the bank. With a mix of grand gardens, authentic villages, and beautiful lake views, it’s well suited for travelers who love a combination of nature, history, and a bit of leisurely exploration. Just keep an eye on the weather, bring your essentials, and enjoy a day immersed in Italy’s lakeside charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: