Madre & Bella Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat

If you're staying in Stresa and want to visit Madre and Bella Islands, our hop-on hop-off boat is ideal. You will sail across Lake Maggiore and explore the islands at your leisure.

Madre & Bella Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat

Madre Island is the largest of the Borromean Islands. To reach it, hop on the boat at the pier in Stresa's Piazza Guglielmo Marconi.

This island features botanical gardens covering 8 hectares. You can explore this English-style garden, home to various plants including camellias, magnolias, cypresses, and palm trees, as well as African plant species. During your visit, you may see peacocks, parrots, and pheasants.

While on Madre Island, you will also view the outside of Borromeo Palace, a 17th-century mansion.

After your visit to Madre Island, you can return to the boat for Bella Island, often regarded as the most beautiful of the Borromean Islands, allowing ample time to explore.

The final stop of the hop-on hop-off boat is Stresa, from where the route begins again. You may reboard to visit Madre Island once more.

Boat Schedule

The hop-on hop-off boat operates from March to November, sailing daily from 9:30 am to 6 pm, with departures every 30 minutes.

How Does It Work?

You will have all-day access to the boat, which travels from Stresa to Madre and Bella Islands. You can board as many times as you wish during operating hours.