12 Best Day Trips From Stresa In Italy, 2024

Are you looking for the best day trips from Stresa to Lake Maggiore in Italy? If you are, you’re in the right spot!

Jack and I spent the majority of our two-week Piedmont road trip at Lake Maggiore and were lucky enough to explore Stresa and the surrounding sites. There are a number of day trips available; most explore the Borromean Islands, which is an attraction I highly recommend, but there are also a few unique tours to be found.

In this guide, I’ve gathered all the best day trips from Stresa to make sure you have the perfect holiday at Lake Maggiore. I’ve included a selection of boat tours, private dining experiences and a few unique tours, such as a highly-rated private guided tour of the three Borromean Islands.

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Best Day Trips From Stresa

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Discover The Best Of Lake Maggiore With These Top-Rated Day Trips From Stresa

Stresa is one of the most visited towns on Lake Maggiore and was actually quite an affluent place to visit, especially during the 19th century when many famous and noble families would visit. 

Due to this, Stresa features gorgeous architecture, including grand neo-classical buildings that line the waterfront. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, which houses the iconic Hemingway Bar for evening cocktails. 

There are a number of attractions within Stresa, and after your day trip, you might want to visit the old town to browse through the boutique shops. The Church of Saints Ambrose and the Church of Saints Joseph and Blaise are also worth a visit. Plus, the Punto Panoramico offers breathtaking views over the lake.

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Best Day Trips From Stresa: Boat Tours

It’s a bit overwhelming as there are so many boat tours on offer from Stresa; however, I’ve found the top five best boat trips from Stresa so you can have a fantastic day trip on the water.

1. The Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Ticket

⭐RATING: 4.2/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 1 DAY |🧍 GROUP SIZE: SHARED | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Experience the natural beauty of Lake Maggiore and its three Borromean Islands with a hop-on hop-off boat ticket departing from Stresa. 

You can choose to visit two or all three of the islands with this ticket and admire the stunning scenery of the lake along the way. Relax on a modern boat equipped with an audio guide in English and Italian. 

The tour includes a stop at Isola Madre, which is known for its botanical gardens and white peacocks. Isola dei Pescatori, the only inhabited island of the Borromean group, to explore its alleys and try some local delicacies. Isola Bella is famous for its palace, caves, and gardens.

“This is the ticket we booked when we visited Stresa. It’s only the boat ticket to the islands but it was a very satisfactory journey with beautiful scenery. The boats came often enough, and we had no issues moving between the islands.” – This review was taken from Get Your Guide.

⭐ Pro tip >> The ticket doesn’t include the entrance fee to Isola Madre or Isola Bella. You’ll also have to pay a landing fee of €0.50 per island. 

2. Three Borromean Islands Private Boat Tour 

⭐RATING: 4.3/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

If you don’t fancy the busy hop-on-hop-off boats, you can explore the picturesque islands at your own pace with a private boat service between Stresa and the Borromean Islands.

“Fantastic day, infinite kindness …. What about ….. experience that will remain in our hearts Thanks for everything” –  This review was taken from Get Your Guide.

⭐ Pro tip >> This tour doesn’t include the entrance fees to Isola Madre and Isola Bella; the small landing fee of €0.50 per island is also not included.

3. Slow Boat Tour For Small Groups

⭐RATING: 5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Venture out on a relaxing cruise along the picturesque Lake Maggiore, taking in the stunning scenery at a leisurely pace. 

Onboard a traditional wooden boat; you’ll sail past popular landmarks such as the Santa Caterina del Sasso hermitage and the Borromean Islands of Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola Pescatori; see them from the water for the best photo opportunities. 

Sip on wine and nibble on snacks as you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on this private boat tour. With a morning or afternoon departure, you can choose a time that suits you for this charming and intimate experience.

“Dario was wonderful and accommodating. It was an intimate and delicious picnic on the lake at sunset…what could be better. It was definitely a highlight of our trip!” – This review is taken from Viator.

⭐ Pro tip >>The day trip departs from Stresa, but keep in mind it doesn’t include a stop at the Borromean Islands.

4. Lake Maggiore Full-Day Private Boat Tour with Lunch 

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 9 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Experience the beautiful Lake Maggiore with an all-inclusive cruise that takes you to Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori, and Santa Caterina del Sasso Monastery. 

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Stresa before embarking on a comfortable boat ride across the lake. Enjoy a private guided tour of the Borromeo Palace and botanical gardens on Isola Bella, followed by a 3-course lunch at the upscale Elvezia restaurant. 

Afterwards, continue with a visit to the Santa Caterina del Sasso monastery and enjoy a private guided tour. Later, head to Isola dei Pescatori to end your day with a beautiful sunset and Italian sparkling wine.

What’s included? This all-inclusive day trip from Stresa includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an entrance ticket to Isola Bella with a private guided tour of the Borromeo Palace and Gardens, a private guided tour of Isola dei Pescatori, an entrance ticket to the Santa Caterina del Sasso Monastery with a private guided tour, a buffet aperitif on board during the cruise and a 3-course lunch with drinks.

“Monica was our guide and she was wonderful. She did such a good job being a great guide. She was very informative. Thank you for such a great experience. – This review is taken from Get Yout Guide.

5. Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise

⭐RATING: 4.1/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 1 HOUR |🧍 GROUP SIZE: GROUP/PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Fancy an evening cruise? I’ve found the perfect sunset cruise on Lake Maggiore that you can enjoy with your family or friends. This excursion from Stresa is excellent for small groups and is great for parties or a romantic getaway. 

The boat has an open terrace area, with enough space for larger groups as well so you’ll be able to enjoy the sunset. While you’re on the boat, you’ll circle Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella to see these beautiful islands from the water. 

“I really liked the welcome of the staff, the comfort of the seats and above all the breathtaking view and obviously the unique moment experienced in that moment.” – This review is taken from Get Yout Guide.

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Best Day Trips From Stresa: Dining Experiences

For those days that you’re not on the lake, I’ve selected these three incredible dining experiences, which include wine tastings and cooking classes; they are also perfect for those rainy days in Stresa (should you be unlucky).

6. Dining Experience At A Local’s Home 

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Experience an exclusive cooking demonstration and family-style meal with a passionate home cook. This experience sounds ideal for learning new techniques, as you’ll get to watch your host prepare classic regional recipes and gain valuable tips to enhance your own cooking skills. 

Afterwards, savour a delicious four-course lunch (or dinner) featuring home-cooked specialities paired with wine. It’s an excellent opportunity to break up your sightseeing and enjoy authentic cuisine while meeting a welcoming host. 

“What a great experience. We loved the food and the company. I would definitely recommend this for your visit!” – Review taken from Viator.

⭐ Pro tip >>You’ll indulge in a seasonal starter, pasta, main courses, and dessert paired with wine to enjoy a unique and memorable dining experience.

7. Art And Food On Lake Maggiore 

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Discover the best of Lake Maggiore’s culture and cuisine with a unique half-day tour that combines Stresa and Isola Bella with a wine tasting. 

This excursion begins with a stroll through Stresa’s old town before taking a private boat to Isola Bella to admire its villa and gardens; entrance fees are included. Afterwards, you’ll stop at a wine shop for a tasting of local wines and snacks. 

This is a great tour to learn about the history of Lake Maggiore and its islands from a knowledgeable guide.

8. Private Cooking Class

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Immerse yourself in an authentic Italian cooking experience with a local chef in the comfort of their own home kitchen. 

Using fresh local ingredients, you’ll learn insider techniques for preparing traditional Italian dishes such as fresh pasta and a seasonal starter bursting with local flavours, followed by a delicious dessert. You’ll get to enjoy the meal you’ve cooked at the family dining table, paired with local wine. 

This private cooking class is perfect for foodie travellers looking to take home new skills and knowledge of Italian cuisine. 

“Wonderful experience – Giselle was so welcoming and friendly and the food we made with her was absolutely delicious. We had a really fun morning and a delicious lunch, what more could we ask for!” – Review taken from Viator.

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Best Day Trips From Stresa: Unique Guided Experiences

If you’re searching for a guided day trip from Stresa to some of the best attractions on Lake Maggiore, these are the tours for you. 

9. Private Tour of Three Borromean Islands With Micaela Guide

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Do you want to discover the Borromean Islands on a guided tour? This private tour offers a personal touch and is the best private day trip from Stresa to the islands.

You’ll visit three of the beautiful Lake Maggiore islands and hear about their rich history, including a tour of the baroque Palazzo Borromeo and the gardens of Isola Madre on this unique and intimate day tour of these stunning islands.

“The trip was fantastic. The guide Michela was very personable and knowledgeable. Spend the extra money on the private boat. This was the highlight of our time in Stresa.” – Review taken from Viator.

⭐ Pro tip >>Keep in mind the entrance tickets to Isola Madre and Isola Bella and the cost of a boat ride over to the islands are not included.

10. The Best Of Verbania

⭐RATING: 4/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 8 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Verbania is a town located on a promontory at the north end of Lake Maggiore and is known for its remarkable attractions, including the Museum of Landscape and the Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens. 

During this tour, you’ll visit both the museum and botanical gardens. The museum is located in Palazzo Viani-Dugnani and houses a vast collection of artwork and photographs related to Lombardy and Piedmont’s culture and history. 

Villa Taranto was one of our favourite botanical gardens and features a selection of rare and beautiful plant species from around the world, including the Amazon giant water lily.

These two attractions offer unique ways to experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore’s landscapes, and with a private guide, you’ll get to see the best of Verbania.

11. Isola Bella & Fishermen’s Island Private Tour with Micaela

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

If you’re short on time but still want to explore Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori with a private guide, this is the one for you! With a private guide, discover the history and beauty of the area on a morning or afternoon departure. 

Entrance fees for Isola Bella’s palace and gardens are not included, so you’ll need to purchase these on arrival.

“Micaela was excellent, just as other reviewers had noted. Our family, driving from Switzerland was late on arriving – she most graciously accommodated. Micaela thank you for a most enjoyable, entertaining, knowledgeable and memorable tour” – Review taken from Viator.com

12. Unique Lake Maggiore Day Trip from Milan

⭐RATING: 4.5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 7 – 10 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 50 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Just in case, I’ve included this day trip from Milan, which stops at Stresa.

If you’re already in Milan, you might want to consider this option and escape the hustle and bustle of the city on a day trip to Lake Maggiore.

With an experienced guide, explore the charming town of Stresa, take in its rich history and browse local shops. Then, board a boat and go on a leisurely cruise around the lake, admiring the beautiful scenery of the water and surrounding mountains. 

You’ll get free time to explore Isola dei Pescatori and end the day by visiting Borromeo Palace in Isola Bella. However, entrance to Palazzo Borromeo and Isola Bella Gardens are not included in this day trip.

“Isola Bella Palace and surrounding gardens. Salvatore was terrific. Very knowledgeable about the history and geography. Thoroughly enjoyed spending time with him” – Review taken from Viator.com.

In Summary: Best Day Trips From Stresa

As always, I hope our guide to the best day trips from Stresa in Lake Maggiore has been helpful to you in planning some of your holidays. I’ve included only the very best excursions, but I did notice there were many of the same options, especially with the boat tours, available with only slight differences. 

I’ve selected those that are the best of the bunch, are highly rated, and offer a unique experience in Stresa. However you choose to visit Stresa and Lake Maggiore, I hope you have the best time and don’t forget to spend some time wandering around the town’s historic centre.