The Three Borromean Islands – Private Guided Tour

Meet your guide and board a private boat. After a short but pleasant cruise across the waters of the Borromean Gulf, you will reach Isola Bella, the most famous and spectacular of the islands, recognizable by its striking ship-like shape that seems to rise motionless from the blue waters of the lake. The visit begins with the magnificent Borromeo Palace, still owned today by the Borromeo family and built from the mid-17th century according to the lavish style of Lombard Baroque architecture. The palace rooms have preserved all the charm and splendor of the past, continuing to amaze visitors with their rich decorations.

Among the most fascinating rooms are the Berthier Gallery, with its prestigious collection of antique paintings, the grand reception halls once used for official gatherings, and the historic chambers that hosted distinguished guests over the centuries. Particularly remarkable are the famous grottoes, unique of their kind, entirely decorated with small multicolored pebbles that recreate an underwater world filled with fish, shells, and aquatic motifs.

The large windows and elegant balconies of the palace offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape, making the visit even more enchanting.

Outside, the tour continues through the magnificent terraced gardens, where you will feel as though you are walking inside a true work of art. Panoramic terraces, allegorical and symbolic statues, and theatrical fountains create a perfect harmony between human creativity and nature. This is the triumph of the Italian Baroque architectural garden, which your guide will help you discover and appreciate in all its most evocative details.

The cruise then continues to the picturesque Isola dei Pescatori, the only island inhabited all year round. Here you will discover the charm of its ancient village, with narrow alleyways, traditional houses, and stories connected to the fishermen who lived on the island throughout the centuries. It will also be an opportunity to taste, if you wish, local gastronomic specialties based on lake fish.

In the afternoon, you will reach Isola Madre, where a relaxing moment surrounded by nature awaits you. You will stroll through the paths of the enchanting English-style botanical garden, famous for its rare plants, centuries-old trees, and spectacular seasonal blooms, carefully arranged to recreate a natural landscape of extraordinary beauty. The silence embracing the island is interrupted only by the rustling of the trees and the movement of colorful pheasants and peacocks roaming freely through the park. Toward the end of the walk, you will arrive at Palazzo Borromeo, the family’s first residence on the islands. This elegant noble country house, simpler than the palace on Isola Bella, tells through its rooms the early history of the Borromeo family and their life on the island.

At the end of the visit, a private boat will take you back to the departure point.

Included Services

• Full-day private guide service (maximum 7 hours);
• Private boat from Baveno or Stresa for the tour as described;
• Municipal landing tax for the islands;
• Entrance tickets to the palaces and gardens of Isola Bella and Isola Madre.

Free service for children up to 5 years old.