THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover a magical day touring Italy’s Borromean Islands and the stunning Lago Maggiore, ending with lakeside charm in Swiss Lugano. This private full-day trip from Lake Como combines history, nature, and unrivaled scenery with ease and style.
Discover a magical day touring Italy’s Borromean Islands and the stunning Lago Maggiore, ending with lakeside charm in Swiss Lugano. This private full-day trip from Lake Como combines history, nature, and unrivaled scenery with ease and style.
Book with Basecamp Europe
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Basecamp Europe · Pazzallo, Ticino
Set against the striking backdrop of the Alps, the Private Full-Day Stresa and Borromean Islands Tour offers an unforgettable journey from the shimmering waters of Lake Como to the elegant shores of Lago Maggiore. This carefully curated excursion unfolds in northern Italy and southern Switzerland, where history, natural beauty, and cultural charm collide. Starting in the Como area, you'll be collected by a professional, English-speaking driver for a scenic transfer to Lago Maggiore—Italy’s second-largest lake, famous for its panoramic Alpine views and refined lakefront towns.
Arriving in Stresa, you step into a lakeside town that blossomed from a modest fishing village into a hub of aristocratic retreat during the 16th century, thanks to the influential Borromeo family. From here, your adventure truly begins with a fully private ferry tour across the Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre. Each island is distinct—Isola Bella showcases the lavishly ornate Palazzo Borromeo with its spectacular baroque gardens, while Isola Madre is treasured for its exotic botanical gardens and introduced fauna. Isola dei Pescatori offers a quaint fishing village atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely lunch amid postcard-worthy views.
This tour excels not only in its immersive access to these diverse islands but also in its seamless combination of cultural heritage and natural splendor. After soaking up the floral grandeur and impeccable architecture, the journey continues across the Swiss border to Lugano. This “pearl of Italian Switzerland” shares Italy’s vibrancy with Swiss precision, offering about two hours to explore its elegant lakeside promenade, local boutiques, and vibrant cafe scene.
Perfect for travelers seeking a private, comprehensive day of discovery, this tour encapsulates both Italy’s historical grandeur and Switzerland’s serene charm. The journey on an air-conditioned coach equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi makes travel restful and connected. It fits well into a broader itinerary, with options to extend stays in Lugano or Stresa, or even visit a renowned Italian cheese producer and designer outlets.
This full-day experience draws visitors deeper into the region’s natural beauty and elite history, making it a standout choice for those seeking to experience the essence of northern Italy’s lake district paired with Swiss lakeside elegance. It's a seamless blend of history, scenery, and comfort that elevates any visit to this captivating corner of Europe.
No, lunch is not included, but the islands offer several cafes and restaurants where you can dine at your leisure.
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and some stairs, so it may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
A valid passport or EU national ID card is required for crossing the border during the tour.
Yes, guests have the option to extend their stay in Lugano or in Stresa after the tour.
This is a fully private experience, tailored exclusively for your group.
The expert driver is English-speaking to assist international travelers.
Basecamp Europe provides private transfers and guided day trips across southern Switzerland and the Italian Lakes. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Basecamp Europe organizes airport transfers, scenic day tours, and bespoke itineraries operating from Lugano and surrounding lake destinations. Airport transfer services include private door-to-door transfers between Lugano and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, Lugano and Milano Linate Airport, and Lugano and Malpensa Airport. For selected routes the company uses comfortable Mercedes vehicles with luggage assistance and professional drivers, helping travelers avoid taxi queues and arrive on time. Day tours showcase regional highlights. The Bellinzona Market and Castles of Ticino day trip combines a vibrant Saturday market with visits to the UNESCO castles around Bellinzona. The Enchanting Switzerland tour visits the Verzasca Valley and Ascona for river views, swimming opportunities, and village exploration. The Private Full-Day Stresa and Borromean Islands Tour departs from Lake Como to explore Stresa, the Borromean Islands, and Lago Maggiore before returning via Lugano. Basecamp Europe also offers a Custom Transfer Service linking Swiss destinations with the Italian Lakes and a Custom Itinerary option for fully tailored travel plans. Each service emphasizes private travel, punctual drivers, and luggage assistance where specified. Transfers provide door-to-door convenience, luggage assistance, and professional drivers so travelers can skip taxi queues and relax during the journey. Custom itineraries are tailored to individual interests and destinations locally.
Book with Basecamp Europe