2025 Stresa Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#Overseas Travel Stresa is a resort town on Lake Maggiore in Italy. Most tourists who visit Stresa go to Isole Borromee, an island in the lake, by boat. The archipelago consists of several small islands, including Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, etc. Some islands are closed in winter, and the lake cruises stop operating in winter. If I go there in winter, I can take a private boat from the Stresa pier. You can leisurely enjoy the lake view on the island and overlook the beautiful scenery of the Alps in the distance. It's very chill! #ItalianTravel #EuropeanTravel #OverseasTravel

As a budget traveler, I chose to buy a discounted train ticket from Montreux to Milan and then take an overnight bus to Nice. However, Milan and I seem to have some inexplicable connection. I have lost my luggage in Milan before, and this time the train was suspended on the way to Milan. It can be said that I was very unlucky. We had an hour wait at the Italian stresa due to outages so we decided to explore this little place. It was November, with fallen leaves all over the ground, graffiti on the walls, and people hurrying along the streets. I pressed the shutter and took a bunch of photos, all of which were full of autumn atmosphere. It was a different travel experience. #goout

Often overshadowed by its more famous sister, Isola Bella, the serene and lush Isola Madre is the largest of the Borromean Islands and a true haven of peace and botanical beauty. Floating in the calm waters of Lake Maggiore, this island is a dream for garden lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a quieter, less crowded escape in northern Italy. 🌿 A Botanical Wonderland Isola Madre is renowned for its exotic gardens, considered among the most beautiful in Italy. Originally planted in the 16th century and transformed into an English-style botanical park in the 1800s, the gardens are home to: • Rare plants and ancient trees: Camellias, rhododendrons, magnolias, azaleas, and century-old cypress trees. • Peacocks and exotic birds: White peacocks, golden pheasants, and parrots roam freely among the trees. • Romantic pathways and shaded corners ideal for a slow, peaceful stroll. 🏛️ The Palazzo Borromeo At the heart of the island lies the 16th-century Palazzo Borromeo, a refined summer residence once used by the noble Borromeo family. Highlights include: • Elegant frescoed rooms and antique furniture. • A unique puppet theater collection with 19th-century marionettes and miniature sets. • A peaceful loggia overlooking the gardens and lake. 🛥️ How to Get There Isola Madre is only accessible by boat: • Ferries run frequently from Stresa, Baveno, or Verbania (especially from spring to autumn). • It’s often included in Borromean Islands tours, together with Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori. 📅 When to Visit • Best time: April to June, when the gardens are in full bloom. • Season: The island is open to the public from late March to late October. • Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter and offer great photo light. 🍴 Dining & Nearby Tips While Isola Madre doesn’t have restaurants like Isola dei Pescatori, you can: • Enjoy a snack or espresso at the small café near the entrance. • Plan lunch in Stresa or Isola dei Pescatori, just a short ferry ride away. Combine your visit with: • A stop at Isola Bella for baroque art and gardens. • A stroll along the Stresa lakeside promenade. • A ride up to Mottarone Mountain for stunning lake views. 🌟 Why Visit Isola Madre? • Less crowded and more tranquil than Isola Bella • A paradise for garden and nature lovers • Rich with history, but without the tourist buzz • Ideal for romantic getaways, slow travel, and botanical photography Final Thought 💭 Isola Madre offers a moment of stillness in a world that moves too fast. It’s not about checking off sights — it’s about breathing deeply, walking slowly, and soaking in the beauty of nature and time. If you’re looking for the soul of Lake Maggiore, you might just find it here. #mediterranean

Nestled in the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, Isola Bella (meaning “Beautiful Island”) lives up to its name in every possible way. Part of the Borromean Islands, this enchanting destination combines baroque splendor, lush gardens, and stunning lake views — making it a must-visit for travelers exploring the Italian Lakes region. Top Things to See on Isola Bella: 🏰 Palazzo Borromeo: A magnificent baroque palace filled with art, tapestries, and ornate furniture. Don’t miss the Grotto Halls, decorated with shells and black-and-white pebbles — a unique escape from summer heat. 🌸 Italianate Gardens: The palace gardens are a masterpiece of landscape architecture, arranged in ten ascending terraces. Expect marble statues, exotic plants, peacocks, and stunning views of Lake Maggiore. 🕊️ White Peacocks: A beloved symbol of the island, these elegant birds freely roam the gardens and are a delight to spot. 🛍️ Boutiques & Cafés on Isola Bella Although small, Isola Bella has a few charming spots worth checking out: • La Cambusa Boutique – Elegant local fashion, silk scarves & jewelry. • Profumi di Isola Bella – Unique perfumes and soaps inspired by the island’s flowers. • Antichità Giuliano – Antiques, vintage prints & curiosities. • Ristorante Delfino – Lakeside dining with fresh fish and risotto. • Caffè Lago – Great for gelato, coffee, or an aperitivo with a view. • Bar Verbano – Friendly service and quick bites near the ferry stop. 📍 How to Get There Isola Bella is only accessible by boat. The most common departure points are: • Stresa – the closest and most convenient town (just a 10-minute boat ride). • Baveno and Verbania – other nearby towns offering regular ferry service. • Ferries are operated by Navigazione Laghi and run frequently from spring to autumn. • Private boat tours are also available and can include stops at the other Borromean Islands — Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. 🌞 Best Time to Visit The island is open to visitors from March to late October, with spring and early summer offering the most vibrant floral displays. Try to arrive early in the day to beat the crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Final Thought 💭 Whether you're a lover of art, history, gardens, or just stunning scenery, Isola Bella is a destination that enchants every traveler. A few hours here feels like stepping into a fairytale — one set in the heart of northern Italy’s most picturesque landscapes. #mediterranean

Our visit to Lago Maggiore was unexpectedly serene and deeply refreshing. Nestled between the Alps and picturesque Italian towns, the lake exuded a quiet charm that made it easy to slow down and just take in the view. We stayed near Stresa and took leisurely strolls along the waterfront promenade. The lake shimmered under the summer sun, framed by lush greenery and dramatic mountains. The Isola Bella and other Borromean Islands were just a short ferry ride away, adding a touch of exploration to the calm. What stood out most was the relaxed pace of life—locals sipping coffee at lakeside cafes, boats gently bobbing in the marina, and the soft hum of conversations in Italian floating through the air. It wasn’t overrun with tourists, which made the whole experience feel more intimate and authentic. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention but lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. #summervacay #italytrip #lagomaggioretrip #lakesideescape #northernitaly

Dining at Ristorante Elvezia on Isola Bella was like stepping into an elegant lakeside painting. After exploring the stunning Borromean Gardens, we wandered over for a sunset dinner that turned into one of our trip’s most memorable moments. The terrace seating offered breathtaking panoramas of Lake Maggiore—and yes, every glance away from the plate was worth it. We savored dishes that celebrated local flavors: silky risotto with lake fish, perfectly grilled white fish, and fresh vegetables drizzled with olive oil and lemon. Each bite felt light yet deeply satisfying. What truly stood out? The staff. They were attentive, warm, and genuinely enthusiastic about sharing the food and the island’s charm. Their recommendations were spot on and didn’t feel rushed despite the dinner hour crowd. Overall, Elvezia captured the magic of Isola Bella—natural beauty, delicious regional cuisine, and a sense of unhurried elegance. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a lakeside experience I’d happily revisit. #summervacay #italy #italytrip #stresa #stresatrip #lakemaggiore #isolabella #lakeside #italianfood #romanticdinner

We stayed just one night at Hotel La Palma in Stresa, but it left quite an impression. Right by the lake, the location couldn’t be better. We arrived in the afternoon and were immediately drawn to the rooftop Sky Bar. Watching the sun dip behind the Borromean Islands while sipping a drink was easily one of the highlights of our trip—such a breathtaking view that words (and even photos) didn’t quite do justice. Our room was comfortable, clean, and opened up to a lovely balcony facing the lake. Even though it was just one night, waking up to that peaceful water view felt like a real reset. The decor was modern but warm, and everything was well maintained. Breakfast the next morning was generous and satisfying, with a good selection of pastries, cheeses, and fruits. The dining space had big windows, so we still got to enjoy that lake view one last time before we checked out. The vibe of the whole hotel is relaxed, elegant, and quietly luxurious—not flashy, but full of character. I wish we had stayed longer, but I’m already thinking about a return visit. #summervacay #italy #italytrip #stresa #stresatrip

Set like a jewel in Lake Maggiore, Borromeo Palace on Isola Bella is one of Italy’s most breathtaking island estates. Built by the noble Borromeo family in the 17th century, the palace is a masterwork of Baroque architecture, filled with lavish halls, opulent salons, and remarkable grottos. Outside, the Italian-style terraced gardens rise in dramatic tiers, blooming with exotic plants, statues, and strolling white peacocks — all surrounded by dazzling lake views. Isola Bella feels almost dreamlike, where history, art, and nature unite in perfect theatrical beauty. ⸻ 📍 Central Location for Navigation: Palazzo Borromeo, Isola Bella 28838 Stresa VB, Lake Maggiore, Italy (Accessible by ferry from Stresa, Baveno, or Verbania) ⸻ 💡 Tips for Visiting Borromeo Palace: • 🛥 Take an early morning ferry for fewer crowds and softer light • 📸 Don’t miss the shell-covered grotto rooms on the lower level • 🌺 Visit from April to October when the gardens are in full bloom • 🎟 Combo tickets are available for visiting Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori as well • 🍽 Enjoy lunch in Stresa after your island visit for a full day of lakeside charm ⸻ #BorromeoPalace #IsolaBella #LakeMaggiore #HiddenItaly #BaroqueItaly #ItalianGardens #IslandEscape #ItalyTravel#trip #historicallandmarks

POV: You accidentally stumbled into an Italian postcard and now you’re eating lake fish rigatoni like a soft life goddess. Lunch with a view? Isola dei Pescatori’s seashore gem is straight outta a postcard. Glassy water, sailboats drifting by, and the kind of soft breeze that makes you question every life choice that isn’t living here. The seafood? So fresh it probably swam onto the plate voluntarily. The wine? Hitting just right. The vibes? Immaculate. If peace had a taste, it’d be this view and a plate of lake fish rigatoni. Fully living my ‘eat pasta, feel feelings’ fantasy. 義大利北部的Lago Maggiore (馬焦雷湖) 是境內第2大湖，可以慢活欣賞湖的靜謐優美跟博羅梅奧家族的人文歷史。三大島嶼中的Isola Madre (母親島)、Isola dei Pescatori (漁夫島) 及Isola Bella (美麗島)各有特色！ 早上，在米蘭前往斯特雷薩城Stresa的火車上睜開睡眼惺忪的眼睛，一望無際的馬焦雷湖跟天空好近好舒服💛 三島各有千秋，玩夠就跳上船向下一個島出發⛵️陸地與海洋還有天空的交會有夠讓我着迷。意大利的食物真的很合我的胃，大口吃湖魚意大利餃，人生真好。 🍝Trattoria Ristorante Imbarcadero 📍Via Lungo Lago, 12, 28838 Isola dei Pescatori VB, Italy #isolamadre #isolabella #italy #stresa

#Stresa Island Hopping Series ② This isn’t your flashy, tourist-packed postcard. It’s all about character over curation — a fishing village that’s been living its truth for centuries. Welcome to Isola dei Pescatori, the only inhabited beauty among the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore — where time slows down, and your soul finally exhales. Picture: wooden boats swaying in the breeze, freshly caught fish drying like seaside laundry, and espresso that tastes like it’s been blessed by the gods of chill. The alleys? Narrow enough to make your thoughts walk in single file. The vibe? “Moved here on a whim to write poetry and fall in love with someone who smells like saltwater and mystery.” Perfect for anyone craving stillness in a world that won’t shut up. So go ahead, put your phone on airplane mode. This island runs on slowness, soul, and espresso. 🍝Restaurant: Trattoria Ristorante Imbarcadero #AprilBlooms #IsolaVibes #LakeMaggioreMagic #FishermansFantasy #SlowTravelMood #MainCharacterRetreat

#Stresa Island Hopping Series 1: Imagine stepping off a boat and walking straight into a Baroque fever dream. That’s #IsolaBella — not just a pretty name, she’s the moment. Palace halls straight out of Bridgerton. Terraced gardens that feel like they were designed for dramatic declarations. White peacocks strutting like they run the island (and honestly? They do). I wandered through this little slice of royal escapism pretending I was a misunderstood heiress in exile. Every corner whispered, “You could fake your death and start over here.” And honestly, tempting. It’s giving: Lakeside luxury. Generational wealth I didn’t inherit. And just enough delusion to believe I could stay forever. #AprilBlooms #Italy #ItalianIslandDreaming #PeacockCore #LakeMaggioreMagic #StresaSideQuest #SoftLifeInItaly

Took a quick escape from Milan to Stresa, and suddenly I’m the protagonist of a romantic novel set on Lake Maggiore. Bought a ferry pass, hopped on a boat, and suddenly I’m island-hopping like it’s a full-time job. Three islands. One day. Zero regrets. Isola Bella — baroque palace, dramatic gardens, white peacocks. I strutted like I owned the place and fully believed I was royalty in a past life. Isola dei Pescatori — tiny fisherman’s island, aka Seafood Heaven. I had risotto with a lake view and briefly considered abandoning city life to open a wine bar here. Isola Madre — quiet, lush, and low-key spiritual. I wandered the gardens like I was in a Studio Ghibli scene and made peace with my inbox for the first time in months. By sunset, I was back in Stresa, sipping aperol with lake breeze in my hair and one very specific fantasy in my head: Living in a lakeside villa with a mysterious Italian botanist who makes espresso every morning and says things like “bella, you work too much.” 10/10 would romanticize life here again. #AprilBlooms #StresaSlays #IslandHoppingInItaly #LakeMaggioreMagic #MilanSideQuest #MainCharacterMoments #IsolaItGirl #SoftLifeDiaries #ItalyUnfiltered

#Stresa Island Hopping Series ③ If Isola dei Pescatori is the humble fisherman with a heart of gold, then Isola Madre is his effortlessly elegant sister — the one who collects vintage fans, speaks five languages, and hosts candlelit dinners under wisteria like it’s no big deal. This island? A botanical fever dream. Rare blooms from all over the world. Palms and camellias flexing for the camera. Peacocks strutting like they’re late for a Vogue shoot (and honestly, they are). And right in the middle of it all? A 16th-century palace that looks like it was designed for slow-motion entrances and whispered secrets. Every step here feels like floating. You’re not walking — you’re gliding past citrus trees and velvet lawns like you were born to drink iced tea in silk trousers and forget your ex. Isola Madre is pure serenity with a wink of opulence — a gentle, green escape where even the air feels curated. You don’t visit this place. You grace it. #AprilBlooms #IsolaMadre #LakeMaggioreRoyalty #BotanicalBaddie #PeacockAndChill #MainCharacterRetreat #GardenGirlSummer #StresaIslandHopping #ItalianDreamscape

Stresa, a small town by the lake in Italy, has always been a place I've longed to visit. The town features three small islands, one of which has a building I really wanted to see. Unfortunately, the building was under renovation when I visited. Stresa is easily accessible by train from Milan, and the town is very safe. Most of the people in the town are tourists, but even so, the prices are not particularly high. Most tourists who come to Stresa visit the three islands. You can buy tickets for the boat tour at the lakeside boat companies. Several companies operate the three-island tour, with only the schedules differing. The first island is where you can see the special building, the second island is a place to eat, and the third island is a botanical garden. You can choose to visit one, two, or all three islands. The tickets are hop-on-and-hop-off, so you can arrange your time freely. I visited all three islands, and if you start early, there will be relatively fewer tourists. Walking around the town of Stresa takes about half an hour. The town has many restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops. If you don't have much time in Italy, a day trip here will be sufficient.

#SummerTripEvent Isola Bella Garden Giardino dell'isola Bella A small island located on Lake Maggiore in Italy, famous for the Borromeo Palace and beautiful Baroque gardens. The garden, decorated with gorgeous sculptures and plants, looks like a scene from a fairy tale, and the scenery of the lake and mountains is truly beautiful. The antique decorations and artwork inside the palace are also impressive, and it is a special place where you can feel the harmony of nature and history.

📍 Boutique Hotel Stresa, Corso Umberto I 21, Piedmont, Italy Hey, fellow wanderlusters! 🌍✈️ Nestled in the charming streets of Stresa, Boutique Hotel Stresa is your cozy Italian retreat. Imagine waking up to the serene vibes of Piedmont, with the lush landscapes of Italy as your backdrop. 🛏️🏞️ This quaint hideaway might be compact, but it packs a punch with its prime location. Step outside and you're a stone's throw away from the picturesque Lake Maggiore. 🚤💦 Fancy a stroll? The hotel is smack dab in the heart of Stresa's historic center, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of the past. 🚶‍♂️🏰 And for those adventure seekers, it's a hop, skip, and a jump to the majestic Borromean Islands. 🏝️ Talk about an Instagrammable spot, right? So, if you're craving that authentic Italian experience with a side of stunning scenery, Boutique Hotel Stresa is your go-to. Just a heads-up, make sure to chat with the friendly staff for the perfect room to match your needs! 🗝️🛋️ Ciao for now, and stay wanderlust! 🌟👋

#naturalbeauty Arriving by ferry (10 Euro per adult) we were impressed with the beautiful island while still on the water. It didn't disappoint. As everywhere in Lago Maggiore, the island has breathtaking views from every vista. This is the largest of the three Borromeo islands in Lake Maggiore. It has been home to the Borromeo family for a long time and it is full of precious treasures, from paintings to furniture to furnishings. The garden is beautifully kept and you have excellent views from the top terraces all up Lake Maggiore itself. For history, art, gardens and a wonderful day out, you can't beat these three islands: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre. Highly recommended. An hour's train ride from Milan's Central Station to Stresa, then a short walk down to the lakeside and the boats. In high season it might be best to book ahead. You can easily spend 3-4 hours exploring and longer if you stop for lunch. The Palazzo Borromeo was beautiful and the gardens extremely well kept, but the cost to visit was (in our view), a little too steep. We were unable to visit the gardens without going via the palace, which although impressive, felt very soulless. Saying that, it was absolutely worth the visit and is a must-do when visiting Lago Maggiore. #100WaysOfTravel

The Regina Palace Hotel is a historic luxury hotel located in Stresa, a town on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Italy. It is known for its Belle Époque architecture and grandeur, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel has been a prominent destination since it opened in 1908, attracting guests with its luxurious accommodations, beautiful gardens, and views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. It remains a popular choice for visitors looking to experience the charm and beauty of the Italian lakes region.

Bella Island (ital. Isola Bella – "beautiful island") is a small island (320 x 400 m.) on the legendary Lake Maggiore — one of the most popular places for travelers in Italy. Almost all of its territory is occupied by a palace and a park located around it, which belonged to the influential Borromeo family. Architectural structures on the island became famous after Charles III (1586-1652 – a representative of the Borromeo family), as a gift to his wife Isabella, built a palace on its territory. Since 1636, the island has received a name that has become a phonetically abbreviated combination of two words: Island and Isabella. The construction of the palace and park was carried out by Angelo Crivelli, Francesco Castelli and, since the end of the XVII century, Carlo Fontana. Most of the figures were executed by the sculptor Carlo Simonetta (1662-1695). The central statue depicting a unicorn represented the heraldic symbol of the Borromeo family. Of the ten terraces, five overlook Lake Maggiore. In the eastern part of the garden there are large lawns with decorative plantings. In general, the entire landscape complex embodies the idea of Baroque theatrical scenography. Bushes representing heraldic signs were planted on the central site. The garden, laid out on the territory of the island, included about ten terraces (located one above the other), surrounded by balustrades and decorated with sculptures and obelisks. Their location emphasized the natural terrain, towering 36 meters above the lake level. Currently, a classical music festival is held annually on the island for all those who travel to Italy. The landscape design of the garden provided an opportunity to view the palace, the surrounding area and the lake from various points of view. The two upper terraces included large arches, from which paths diverged in different directions. The view from each terrace (which included its own collection of plants emphasizing its uniqueness) was framed by statues and obelisks. All this created a certain intrigue of "views".

Imagine indulging in a delectable breakfast while being serenaded by the gentle lullaby of the Ligurian Sea. At the Grand Hotel Bristol in the coastal town of Rapallo, this dream becomes a reality. With each bite of your pastry, the sun-drenched horizon creates a breathtaking canvas of blues and golds, merging the flavors of Ligurian cuisine with the beauty of the Mediterranean. As you relish your meal, you'll find yourself lost in a moment of pure bliss, where the world of flavors and sea views become one. 🌊🍽️

Beautiful sun in Kenya #Kenya #sun

Stresa is a resort in northern Italy, an hour's drive from Milan. There are three small islands in the lake, and you can take a boat tour of the lake. The scenery is very beautiful, and there are beautiful shopping districts and restaurants. It is even more pleasant to dine by the lake!

Palazzo Borromeo on the island of Bella is different from the European palaces that are often seen. The Bologo Palace seems to have moved the ocean into the palace. The sky-blue interior colors, the wall decoration made of sea stones, the cobbled floors, and even the ornaments are all related to the ocean. Living on the island in the lake, people have the illusion of being in the sea. The ground floor of the palace is like a cave-like room. The ceiling and walls are decorated with shells and pebbles in the form of mosaics. The details are designed to avoid the heat of summer. It is very ingenious. Come out of the magnificent Borromeo Palace and come to the small courtyard outside. The sun is shining, and this piece of green shadow is more beautiful and dazzling. Walking along, maybe you can open the peacock in the garden. Baroque gardens on the island, flowers and sculptures on the rigorous and gorgeous 10-story platform, stacked on top of each other, the top of the pyramid is a huge sculpture of lovers sitting on the back of the unicorn.

If Isola Bella is a symbol of wealthy and flamboyant, then Isola dei Pescatori is the embodiment of civilians and simple labor. There are many typical fishermen's houses on the island (so the island is also called Fisherman's Island) and there is a church built in the 15th century. There are various types of boats moored around the island. There are modern motorboats and old fishing boats. You can still see wooden frames for drying and drying fish, brackets for fishing nets and other fishing gear. It is also Hemingways favorite refuge. Pescatoroli is very small and can be visited for a week in a 20-minute walk but the alleys are very dense and full of petty-bourgeois villas and restaurants. Although not as good as the previous two islands, it has been listed as a business district. Many people choose to settle down here to taste the local cuisine, or buy a souvenir to take home. When you are tired, sit at the lakeside cafe and order a cup of Italian coffee, back against the white peaks, facing the deep blue lake, watching the waterfowl vacate and enjoy life quietly, even if you dont do anything, Walking around with your heart is also very pleasant.

Leaving the lively Rome, Florence, Milan, and visiting the most romantic island of Italy, Bella Island, which is rare among tourists, is a must-see place for my trip to Italy. Looking into the distance, the mountains in the distance are stacked, and the lake of Maggiore is connected with a lake and mountains. The water on the lake is rippled, and the golden light in the sunlight is intoxicating. The natural beauty of the mountain lake, accompanied by the flowers and plants on the island, blowing the wind on the lake, warm and hustle and bustle, this moment, seems to be unable to move, and quietly enjoy the wonderful sanctuary of this paradise. The lake of Lake Maggiore is clear, it is like a charming blue-yellow girl, quietly lying in the green mountains, not arrogant and graceful. Whether using a cell phone or a camera or a brush, people always want to record the beauty here in a variety of ways.