VIP Experience to Lake Maggiore and Borromean Gems

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising across Italy’s stunning Lake Maggiore, this VIP tour promises a taste of luxury combined with some truly breathtaking scenery. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve looked into what makes it special, and I think it could be a fantastic choice for anyone craving a relaxed yet upscale way to discover the area.

What really catches the eye are the beautiful towns of Stresa and Arona, and the chance to explore the iconic Borromean Islands—all in one day. Plus, the inclusion of the Santa Caterina Monastery adds a peaceful, scenic stop that’s perfect for unwinding. That said, this tour is quite structured and upscale, so if you prefer a more spontaneous or budget-friendly adventure, it might not be your best fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy comfort, private experiences, and a good dose of scenic beauty.

Two things we love about this tour are the intimate, private group setting and the exclusive cruise on the Borromean Islands, which promises a more personalized experience. One thing to consider is that the full day can be a lot of moving around—so if you’re not into long days on the water and sightseeing, it might feel a bit packed.

This experience suits those who want a curated, scenic day with a touch of luxury—whether you’re honeymooning, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to indulge in a beautiful part of Italy without the hassle of planning each stop.

Key Points

• Luxury and Privacy: It’s a private group experience, offering a more intimate, personalized day.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect panoramic views of Lake Maggiore, the Alps, and charming towns.
• Island Visits: Explore three Borromean Islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.
• Historical Highlights: Marvel at the Borromeo Palace and the Santa Caterina Monastery.
• Flexible & Well-Rounded: The itinerary can be customized, and the day includes both sightseeing and leisure.
• Ideal for Comfort Seekers: Enjoy a smooth, guided experience without the stress of navigation or crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The journey kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel, giving you the flexibility to start your day comfortably. You can choose a departure time between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, which helps tailor the experience to your plans. Once on board, the scenic drive along the lake offers a relaxed start, with the Alps forming a stunning backdrop as you head toward Stresa, a town that’s as charming as it sounds.

Stresa is the first stop, and it’s where the true magic begins. Its lakeside promenade invites gentle strolls, offering spectacular views of the water and the surrounding mountains. This is a chance to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, or just enjoy a quiet moment before heading onto the water.

The exclusive boat cruise is the highlight here. Traveling on a private vessel, you’ll visit the Borromean Islands, each with its own character. The Isola Bella is famous for its grand palace and beautifully cascading gardens. We loved the way the palace is set against the lush landscape, making it feel like a living postcard. The Isola Madre offers a more tranquil vibe with botanical gardens and exotic plants, making it a peaceful retreat amid natural beauty.

Then there’s the Isola dei Pescatori, or Fishermen’s Island, a lively little village that still retains rustic charm. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy some authentic regional flavors at one of the quaint restaurants. Reviewers frequently mention the authenticity of the food and the relaxed atmosphere—definitely a highlight for food lovers.

The tour then takes you to the Santa Caterina Monastery, perched on a cliffside. Here, you can opt for a self-guided tour or simply relax and take in the panoramic views. The monastery’s location offers a peaceful pause, and the views are often described as “breathtaking,” making it a memorable part of the day.

Finally, the last stop is Arona, a town filled with history and character. It’s a lovely place to stroll, enjoy a coffee, or pick up some local souvenirs, with your guide sharing stories along the way.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest selling points is the combination of luxury, convenience, and scenery. Traveling on a private boat allows for a more relaxed pace and the chance to get closer to the islands compared to crowded, hop-on-hop-off ferries. Plus, the expert guides help bring the story of the area to life, making the experience more meaningful and not just about ticking boxes.

The scenery deserves special mention. Multiple reviews praise the stunning views—from the mountains to the lakeside villages, it’s a feast for the eyes. You’ll love the contrast of the lush gardens on Isola Bella, the historic charm of Arona, and the natural beauty surrounding the mountains.

In terms of value, considering the private group setting, personalized service, and inclusions—this tour can feel like a more special, hassle-free way to see Lake Maggiore than trying to piece together separate tickets or public transport. Some reviews mention that the boat cruise alone is worth the price, especially when combined with the scenic stops.

Practical Considerations

This tour runs 8 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed, but it is a full day. The pick-up flexibility helps if you want to start later in the morning or early, depending on your plans. The group is private, so it’s tailored to your party, and the guides speak multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German.

Cost-wise, it’s an investment in comfort and exclusivity. For travelers who value a stress-free, curated experience, it’s worth considering. The tour is also cancelable up to 24 hours in advance, giving some peace of mind if your plans change.

If you’re traveling with children or family, this could be suitable depending on your kids’ patience and interest in scenery and history. The stops are mostly outdoor and scenic, but it’s a full day, so stamina might matter.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, intimate, and scenic day exploring Lake Maggiore, this VIP tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect if you value comfort, personalized attention, and stunning vistas. The boat cruise around the Borromean Islands, combined with visits to charming towns and historic sites, gives you a well-rounded glimpse of this beautiful lake region.

While it does come at a premium, many reviews suggest that the quality of the experience—beautiful views, exclusive access, and expert guides—makes it worth the cost. Remember, it’s a curated, upscale outing, so if you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back or spontaneous adventure, you might want to consider other options.

For those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in Italy’s lakeside luxury, this tour provides an elegant and memorable way to enjoy Lake Maggiore’s beauty.

FAQ

What is included in this VIP experience?
The tour includes a private group, guided excursions, a scenic boat cruise around the Borromean Islands, and visits to towns like Stresa and Arona. The tour start is flexible, with hotel pickup included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, after booking, there’s an opportunity to personalize the day based on your preferences or needs. Be sure to specify your departure hotel and desired activities.

What languages are guides available in?
The guides speak multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German, ensuring a comfortable experience for international travelers.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if plans change.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing and relaxation.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While mostly ideal for adults and couples, families with children who enjoy scenic boat rides and outdoor sightseeing may find it enjoyable. Keep in mind it’s a full-day outing, so plan accordingly.

In the end, this tour offers a refined, scenic, and relaxing way to explore Lake Maggiore’s most iconic sights. It’s ideal for those who want to experience Italy’s lakeside charm with a touch of luxury and comfort, making for a memorable day out in this stunning region.

You can check availability for your dates here: