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Things to do in Baveno

Our most recommended things to do in Baveno

Borromean Islands Tour Hop-on Hop-off

1. Borromean Islands Tour Hop-on Hop-off

Visit the Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore on a hop-on hop-off style boat tour from Baveno. Hop between the islands of Madre, Bella, and Pescatori, and have time to spend exploring them. Embark your boat and depart from Baveno, sailing into the lake towards your first island. Arrive at Madre Island where you can admire the famous English botanical gardens and Palazzo Borromeo. Leave Madre for Bella Island. Be in awe of its baroque palace, Italian gardens, and 10 terraces that slope towards the lake. Head for Pescatori Island to feel the charming effects of its picturesque fishing village with meandering alleys and multi-story buildings. From Pescatori, conclude your tour with a return to Baveno.

Lago Maggiore: Adventure Park with Panoramic View

2. Lago Maggiore: Adventure Park with Panoramic View

Buckle up and start your day with a climb up one of the exciting rope courses available. You can try them all, with over 40 challenges, there are loads of possibilities. After the climb, soar over the park with a 65 meter long zip line, taking in spectacular views along the way. After your arrival, you will meet an instructor and get a safety briefing, ensuring your adventure for the day goes smoothly. Enjoy the stunning view and fall in love with the wildlife above Maggiore Lake. For the small ones, a playground and a sand box to enjoy surrounded by nature is available. If you're hungry, why don't you try some of the local specialties at WunderBar or Grotto Carza restaurants, both plastic free and pet-friendly.

Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Sightseeing Gulf Cruise

3. Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Sightseeing Gulf Cruise

A special itinerary will lead visitors to discover the Borromean Gulf: Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori and Isola Bella and the coastal towns such as Verbania, Baveno and Stresa Boarding from Stresa Piazza Marconi towards Isola Madre, famous for its gardens with tropical flowers, like cashmere cypress, bougainvillea, etc.... After having circumnavigated the island, we will sail towards Isola dei Pescatori, the only one to be permanently inhabited all year round and famous throughout the world for its picturesque village and its many typical restaurants famous for lake fish. We end your cruise with a tour of Isola Bella sailing around the Borromeo Palace and the splendid Italian Baroque garden with its 10 terraces. This tour is one of the most used services to reach the enchanting Borromean Islands and Lake Maggiore. Ideal for those who like to travel freely at their own pace, this tour allows you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the lake.

Lake Maggiore: Return Boat Transfer to Borromean Islands

4. Lake Maggiore: Return Boat Transfer to Borromean Islands

Explore a Borromean Island of your choice with a return boat transfer from Stresa. Take as much time as you want to see the sights before returning. Meet the boat directly at your hotel's dock and embark on a scenic ride across Lake Maggiore. Choose one of the islands to discover: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, or Isola Madre. Relax on the boat and take in scenic views of the lake as you sail to the island. Stay and see the sights as long as you want, your boat will be waiting for you when you're done.

Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise

5. Borromean Gulf: Sightseeing Cruise

Set sail on this Borromean Gulf cruise and admire the area’s sights and scenery from the water. Pass by Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Marvel at the Borromeo Palace. Leave from Stresa towards Isola Madre, famous for its gardens with tropical blooms and for its villa that will leave you speechless. After having made a complete tour around the island, head towards the fishing village of Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen's Island), the only island to be permanently inhabited all year round. Spot a set of ancient houses rich in history. Finish off your cruise with a tour of Isola Bella from the water. Sail around the Borromeo Palace and see the memorable gardens and terraces, where, if you are lucky, you will be able to see some white peacocks peeking out.

From Stresa/Baveno: Verbania Pallanza and Island boat Tour

6. From Stresa/Baveno: Verbania Pallanza and Island boat Tour

Leave Stresa behind and take a relaxing panoramic cruise around the Borromean Gulf, and make a stop in one of its most famous villas, Verbania Pallanaza. Cruise around the Borromean Gulf, famous all over the world for its unique admire some of the most characteristic epoch-style villas in the Verbano area and stop at one of the most famous villas in this area, Verbania Pallanza. Set sail for this tourist cruise admiring one of the most evocative views of Lake Maggiore, the Borromean Gulf, before disembarking in Verbania Pallanza. See a place where tourism and culture are more alive, from a village that looks like a balcony from which to enjoy splendid views of the lake, such as Villa Giulia or Villa Rusconi Clerici.See some of the most fascinating gardens and parks in Italy while in the area, whose splendor and perfect state of maintenance highlight the fabulous lake atmospheres.

Lake Maggiore: Boat Tour with Stresa Hotel Pickup / Drop-off

7. Lake Maggiore: Boat Tour with Stresa Hotel Pickup / Drop-off

Cruise Lake Maggiore in your own private boat, operated by a driver who will take you around the lake and the 3 Borromean Islands. Soak up the enchanting atmosphere of one of Italy's largest and most well-known lakes. Admire the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains and villages as you cruise. Choose the most suitable boat for your occasion, whether it be romantic or family-oriented. You can also opt for various tours or itineraries on your hour out on Lake Maggiore. Enjoy boating out to the Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori. You can also be taken to the coastal towns of Stresa, Verbania, and more.

Bella & Pescatori Island Tour Hop-on Hop-off

8. Bella & Pescatori Island Tour Hop-on Hop-off

Visit the Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore on a boat tour from Baveno. Hop between the islands of Bella and Pescatori and take some free time to explore. Board your boat and depart from Baveno, sailing on Lake Maggiore toward your first island. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the tranquility of the lake. After arriving on Bella, visit its Baroque Palazzo Borromeo. Walk through the lush Italian garden and 10 terraces that slope toward the lake. Get back on the boat and head for Pescatori Island. Explore the charming, meandering alleys of a traditional fishing village. When you're finished exploring, board your boat for the return trip to Baveno.

Other Sightseeing Options in Baveno

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What people are saying about Baveno

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 15 reviews

Excellent formula. Our skipper Alessandro took great care of us, giving us valuable advice on both restaurants and visits. We had the boat to ourselves, a dream! We will be back as it was a magical day. Sylvia

A highlight for all children who are not afraid of heights! The children spent hours hanging in the trees and climbing. Very challenging if you like. For small to BIG claims

Well organized climbing! Don't forget the tightrope act at the reservoir!

It was so much fun. The staff was very friendly and helpful.

Great service, punctual, nice ride to the Borromean Islands