English
English
Palazzo Borromeo with richly decorated interiors and terraced gardens overlooking the lake; impressive architecture and panoramic terraces.
Hop-on Hop-off Stresa Bus Tours
- Cruise to the world-famous Borromean Islands on this speedy boat transfer from Stresa via Lake Maggiore.
- Enjoy round-trip service and sail across Lake Maggiore to reach Isola Bella, where the Palace Museum and its captivating gardens await your visit.
- Take advantage of ample seating and other amenities onboard the modern boat.
- Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this compact island, featuring the stunning Baroque Borromeo Palace, intricate Italian gardens, and clear lake views.
- Cruise to the world-famous Borromean Islands on this speedy boat transfer from Stresa via Lake Maggiore.
- Enjoy round-trip service and sail across Lake Maggiore to reach Isola Bella, where the Palace Museum and its captivating gardens await your visit.
- Take advantage of ample seating and other amenities onboard the modern boat.
- Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this compact island, featuring the stunning Baroque Borromeo Palace, intricate Italian gardens, and clear lake views.
Inclusions
- Round-trip boat ticket from Stresa to Isola Bella and back
- Multilingual pre-recorded commentary on board
Exclusions
- Entry to palaces and gardens of the Borromean Islands
- Landing fee of 0.50€ per person and island (to be paid locally)
- Tip: It usually takes an entire morning or afternoon to explore the entire island so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Your experience will be subject to change in the case of severe weather conditions or strong winds
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility
- Please be aware that while pets are permitted on the boats, they are not allowed inside the museums and gardens.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Discover the Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Madre on this unlimited hop-on hop-off boat tour, departing every 30 minutes from Stresa.
- Explore Isola Bella, famous for its enchanting palace, Baroque-style terraced gardens, and beach.
- Make your way to the smallest island, the fishing village of Isola Pescatori, where you must savor delicious seafood and walk along the promenade.
- At Isola Madre, stroll through its beautiful botanical gardens and view the Palazzo Borromeo which is known for its exquisite collection of art and furniture.
- Discover the Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Madre on this unlimited hop-on hop-off boat tour, departing every 30 minutes from Stresa.
- Explore Isola Bella, famous for its enchanting palace, Baroque-style terraced gardens, and beach.
- Make your way to the smallest island, the fishing village of Isola Pescatori, where you must savor delicious seafood and walk along the promenade.
- At Isola Madre, stroll through its beautiful botanical gardens and view the Palazzo Borromeo which is known for its exquisite collection of art and furniture.
Inclusions
- Round-trip hop-on hop-off boat tour
- Stops at Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Madre
Exclusions
- Entry to the palaces and gardens
- Landing fee (€0.50 per island per person)
- First boat: 9:15am
- Last Boat: 3:15pm
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Tip: Some of the local cuisines you might want to try at the islands include risotto with lake fish, pasta with pesto, and polenta.
- A landing fee of €0.50 per island per person should be paid locally on arrival so carry cash in hand.
- Pets are allowed on the boat but not inside the museums and gardens.
- The boat tour is subject to weather conditions. In case of severe weather conditions or strong winds, the tour might not take place.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Cruise to the fishing village of Isola Pescatori on this speedy boat transfer from Stresa via Lake Maggiore.
- Enjoy round-trip service and sail across Lake Maggiore to reach Isola Pescatori, a quaint village offering a mesmerizing panorama, which serves as the most accessible gateway to the Borromean Islands.
- Don't worry about missing a boat as this service has boats departing every 30 mins from Stresa.
- Take advantage of ample seating and other amenities onboard the modern boat.
- Marvel at the enchanting blend of history and natural beauty of Isola Pescaotri where you can explore picturesque surroundings, and discover local businesses.
- Cruise to the fishing village of Isola Pescatori on this speedy boat transfer from Stresa via Lake Maggiore.
- Enjoy round-trip service and sail across Lake Maggiore to reach Isola Pescatori, a quaint village offering a mesmerizing panorama, which serves as the most accessible gateway to the Borromean Islands.
- Don't worry about missing a boat as this service has boats departing every 30 mins from Stresa.
- Take advantage of ample seating and other amenities onboard the modern boat.
- Marvel at the enchanting blend of history and natural beauty of Isola Pescaotri where you can explore picturesque surroundings, and discover local businesses.
Inclusions
- Round-trip boat ticket from Stresa to Isola Pescatori and back
- Multilingual pre-recorded commentary on board
Exclusions
- Entry to palaces and gardens of the Borromean Islands
- Landing fee of 0.50€ per person and island (to be paid locally)
- Tip: It usually takes an entire morning or afternoon to explore the entire island so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Your experience will be subject to change in the case of severe weather conditions or strong winds
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility
- Please be aware that while pets are permitted on the boats, they are not allowed inside the museums and gardens.
- This boat service starts from Stresa and stops at Isola Bella or Isola Pescatori. This service does not commute to Isola Madre.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Why choose Hop-on Hop-off Stresa?
Island variety and richness
Each island offers something different. Isola Madre has its botanical gardens and wildlife, Isola Bella boasts palace and terraces, and Isola dei Pescatori has that rustic village charm.
Flexible scheduling
With boats arriving every 30 minutes, you can linger where you like across islands without missing connections.
Optional inclusions
Some tickets cover entrance to palaces or gardens; others let you choose based on your budget or interest.
Scenic lake views
Constant panoramic views of the lake, the Alps, and classic Italian architecture await even while moving between stops.
Hop-on Hop-off buses are a great choice for
Garden & nature lovers
This experience suits those keen on botanical gardens, landscapes, peacocks, and lakeside flora.
History and art enthusiasts
Excellent for visitors drawn to Baroque palaces, historic villas, museum pieces and architectural details.
Foodies & culture explorers
This is the ideal tour for you if you enjoy local restaurants, markets, handicrafts, and small village life by the water.
Relaxed travelers
Great for people who prefer flexible itineraries, leisurely strolls, and not being tied to rigid tour schedules.
Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour of the Borromean Islands
Explore Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands aboard the Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour from Stresa, offering scenic, relaxed hopping between islands.
Round-trip
- Ideal for: Visitors wanting a blend of nature, history, and lakeside charm in one day.
- Timings: 9:15am-3:15pm
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Full loop duration: 3-4 hours
- Popular stops: Isola Bella, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Madre
How to book Hop-on Hop-off tickets
Step 1: Choose your route
Each tour follows a unique route. Review the routes and stops and pick the tour that covers your must-see attractions.
Step 2: Book your tickets
Purchase your Hop-on Hop-off tickets easily using PayPal or your credit/debit card.
Step 3: Check your email
Receive your ticket voucher instantly in your inbox.
Step 4: Download the operator’s app
Track the bus in real-time, plan your journey, and explore routes with an interactive map.
Step 5: Hop on & explore!
Head to any designated stop, show your mobile voucher to the driver or staff, and start your adventure!
Top sights covered
Isola Bella – Palazzo and Gardens
Frequently asked questions about Stresa Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
How many islands are part of the Hop-on Hop-off tour?
Three islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.
How often do boats depart from Stresa?
Approximately every 30 minutes during operating hours.
Is the palace/garden entry included in all tickets?
No. Only some tickets include entrance, while others require extra payment for gardens or palaces.
Is the tour valid beyond 24 hours?
No, tickets are strictly valid for 24 hours of unlimited use.
What is the length of the tour if I visit all islands?
About 3-4 hours or more, depending how long you spend exploring each island.
Are there any extra fees I should know of?
Yes, a small landing fee (€0.50 per island) typically applies, which you can pay locally in cash.
Can I board at different islands, not just Stresa?
Yes, you may hop off at any island and reboard later with a valid ticket.