A boat trip around Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands offers a charming blend of nature, history, and authentic Italian coastal life. This specific hop-on hop-off tour from Baveno is praised for its convenience, friendly crew, and the chance to explore two very different islands—Bella and Pescatori—at your own pace. While it’s a straightforward trip, it manages to pack in enough beauty and interest to make it a worthwhile addition to any Lake Maggiore itinerary.
What I love about this experience is how effortlessly it combines relaxation with cultural discovery. First, the tranquil sail across the lake is perfect for soaking in the scenery without the hassle of navigating yourself. Then, the stops at Bella and Pescatori provide a taste of Italy’s elegant gardens and lively fishing traditions. A second highlight is the friendly guides and well-organized schedule, which helps keep the day flowing smoothly. On the flip side, a potential consideration for travelers is the additional island entry fees—a small cost that’s not included in the ticket and requires some planning ahead.
This tour offers a great balance of value, flexibility, and authentic charm, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy Lake Maggiore without overloading their day. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate a laid-back pace and want to explore at their leisure, rather than rushing from one attraction to another.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Convenient hop-on hop-off format allows you to explore the islands at your own pace.
- Includes a scenic boat ride on Lake Maggiore, ideal for relaxing and enjoying views.
- Visits to Bella’s palaces and gardens showcase Italian Baroque elegance and lush terraces.
- Pescatori Island offers authentic fishing village charm with narrow alleys and local color.
- Additional landing fees apply for each island visit (about 0.50 euro per person).
- Guides are knowledgeable and the boats are confirmed to be clean and punctual.
The Basics of the Borromean Islands Tour
Starting from Baveno’s Piazza IV Novembre, this hop-on hop-off boat tour is a straightforward way to see two of Lake Maggiore’s most iconic islands. The service begins around 9:40 AM and runs until late afternoon, with the last boarding at around 11:40 AM, making it easy to fit into most travel plans. The boats are operated by Consorzio motoscafisti Summer Boats, a company with a reputation for punctuality and good service, as echoed by travelers who appreciated the cleanliness and on-time departures.
You’ll begin your journey by boarding a comfortable boat, which is a highlight in itself. The serenity of sailing across the lake, with views of the surrounding mountains, sets the tone for the day. The boat’s crew is multilingual, including English-speaking staff, which helps if you need guidance or have questions. Keep in mind, arriving about 10 minutes early is recommended to scan your QR code, receive your “Summer Boats” sailing ticket, and be ready to set off on time.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Baveno.
Exploring Isola Madre and Isola Bella
The trip’s first stop is Isola Madre, known for its botanical gardens and the Palace of Borromeo. While the tour doesn’t include entry fees—that’s an extra expense—you’re free to wander and admire the lush greenery that surrounds the historic palaces. Travelers mention the gardens are impressive, with a variety of plants and flowers that thrive in Italy’s mild climate. It’s a peaceful spot to take photos and enjoy some quiet time away from crowds.
Next comes Isola Bella, perhaps the most famous of the Borromean Islands thanks to its opulent Baroque palace and terraced gardens. Here, the Palazzo Borromeo offers a glimpse into aristocratic life, and the surrounding gardens provide sweeping views of the lake. However, it’s important to note that admission to the palace and gardens is not included in your ticket, so plan to budget extra if you wish to explore inside.
Pescatori Island: Authentic Fishing Village Charm
After the island visits, the boat takes you to Pescatori Island, which is perhaps the most authentic part of the experience. Its narrow alleys, colorful houses, and fishing boats create an atmosphere that feels genuinely Italian. You’ll love wandering through the village’s winding streets, discovering small cafes, and soaking in the lively, laid-back vibe. As one review put it, Pescatori offers a “quaint fishing village” experience, perfect for those who want a break from more formal sightseeing.
Timing and Flexibility
One of the major benefits of this tour is the allowance for free time on each island. You’re not just rushed from one to the next; instead, you can choose to spend your time strolling, taking photos, or simply relaxing. The last boat returns to Baveno around 5 or 6 PM, so there’s plenty of opportunity to extend your day if desired.
It’s also worth noting that bad weather can affect the schedule—the service isn’t guaranteed in poor conditions, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans. Children up to age 4 travel free, and dogs are welcome onboard, although medium-sized dogs may incur a small fee.
Price and Value
The ticket price covers the boat ride and the hop-on hop-off flexibility, making it a good value for travelers eager to see the islands without paying for multiple individual tours. The additional costs—mainly the 0.50 euro landing fee per island and entrance fees for palaces and gardens—are not included, but those are typical expenses when visiting historic sites in Italy.
Several travelers praised the value for money, especially considering the boat’s cleanliness and punctuality. One reviewer mentioned, “Very nice islands and an excellent overall experience,” which sums up the general sentiment well. The chance to see both natural and man-made beauty in a single day is well worth the modest extra costs.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience without the hassle of navigating public transport or booking multiple tickets. It suits those who enjoy leisurely exploration, with enough free time to wander and soak in the atmosphere. It’s also a good pick for families and couples alike, especially if you appreciate authentic local flavor and beautiful landscapes.
However, if you’re eager to explore the interiors of the palaces or gardens, be prepared to pay extra. Also, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as the uneven terrain and boat transfers might pose challenges. For those with limited time or looking for a straightforward introduction to Lake Maggiore’s islands, this tour delivers a tidy, well-organized experience.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If the idea of sailing between islands, exploring charming villages, and wandering through lush gardens appeals to you, this hop-on hop-off boat tour offers a delightful slice of Italy’s lake life. The friendly guides, timely boats, and the chance to explore at your own pace make it a solid choice for a day trip from Baveno.
While it’s worth planning a bit extra for entrance fees and any additional visits inside the palaces or gardens, most travelers find the overall experience excellent value. It’s particularly suitable if you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic day with the flexibility to tailor your exploration.
In short, this tour is a good way to enjoy Lake Maggiore’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s a simple, authentic, and enjoyable way to see some of Italy’s most picturesque islands—perfect for those who want a taste of lakeside life and a peaceful boat ride.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children up to 4 years old travel for free, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families.
Can dogs come onboard?
Yes, dogs are allowed, with small ones sailing for free. Medium-sized dogs might add a small fee of 3 euros.
What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sun protection, and some cash for island entry fees and any purchases in the villages. Comfortable walking shoes are advised.
How long is the boat ride?
The exact duration varies, but the overall itinerary includes time on each island plus sailing time, allowing for a full day of exploration.
Are there guided tours on the islands?
No, the tour is self-guided; you explore on your own after disembarking.
Are the boats air-conditioned?
The information doesn’t specify, but typically, boats are open-air or have shade, perfect for enjoying the lake breeze.
What happens in bad weather?
The service may be canceled if the weather is poor, so check the forecast and be flexible.
How much do the entrance fees cost?
The review mentions an additional 0.50 euro per island landing fee, with interior palace and garden admission extra.
Can I visit inside the palaces and gardens?
Not with this ticket; entry fees are separate.
What’s the best time of year for this tour?
Spring through early fall offers the best weather, but verify availability and weather conditions before booking.
This boat tour from Baveno to the Borromean Islands combines simplicity, scenic beauty, and a touch of Italian charm. Perfect for those who want a flexible, authentic experience of Lake Maggiore’s highlights without over-complicating their day.