Lugano & Lake Maggiore Day Trip
Description
On this day trip from Milan, you will discover the elegance of the Swiss city of Lugano and the beauty of Lake Maggiore. This journey includes a boat ride around the Borromean Islands and visits to the picturesque towns of Stresa and Isola dei Pescatori. Experience the best of Italy and Switzerland in one day!
Day Trip Details
We will meet at the specified time in Piazza IV Novembre, adjacent to the majestic Hotel Gallia. From Milan, we will travel north by bus, crossing the border into the alpine landscapes of Switzerland.
The first stop is Lugano, the main city of the Ticino region. Upon arrival, you will experience a perfect blend of Switzerland and Mediterranean style. A walk along the lakeside promenade awaits, featuring beautiful flowers and sculptures, alongside a chance to explore the historic streets of the old town.
You will have 1.5 hours of free time to enjoy a coffee in Piazza della Riforma, explore luxury boutiques on Via Nassa, or visit the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli, which hosts the most famous Renaissance fresco in Switzerland.
Leaving Switzerland, we will return to Italy and arrive at Lake Maggiore, the second largest lake in the country. Here, you will board a private boat for an unforgettable cruise.
From the boat, you will view the stunning Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, a monastery set dramatically on a rocky cliff. As we sail, you'll admire the elegant villas and gardens that have attracted European aristocracy for centuries.
The highlight of the boat ride will be the Borromean Islands. You'll see Isola Madre, renowned for its peacocks and exotic gardens, and we'll make stops on Isola dei Pescatori, the only permanently inhabited island. Here, you will have 1 hour of free time to wander through narrow streets lined with fishing nets and local craft shops.
We will also visit Isola Bella, where you can admire the exterior of Borromeo Palace and its extensive baroque gardens across ten terraces. Finally, we will land in Stresa, known as the pearl of Lake Maggiore. This charming town, with its elegant atmosphere and grand Belle Époque hotels, will mark the end of our journey before we head back by road.
After 11 hours, we will conclude the tour at the initial meeting point in Milan. We look forward to seeing you again!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
This tour operates daily, providing an extraordinary experience in one day. After meeting in Milan, our comfortable bus takes us to Lugano, where you will have free time to explore the city. Then we venture to Lake Maggiore for a scenic boat trip featuring the enchanting Borromean Islands.
Included:
- Transportation by bus from Milan
- Private boat trip on Lake Maggiore
- Free time in Lugano and Isola dei Pescatori
Not Included:
- Food and drinks
- Entrance fees to attractions
Meeting Point:
Piazza IV Novembre, next to Hotel Gallia, Milan.
What's included
- Transport by bus or minibus
- English–speaking guide
- Private boat ride on Lake Maggiore
What's not included
- Food and drinks
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima (local time)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Important information
On the day of the activity, we’ll meet at the indicated time in Piazza IV Novembre, next to Hotel Gallia (Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Milan - Piazza Duca d'Aosta, 9, 20124 Milano MI, Italy).
Important Info
To cross the border into Switzerland, it’s mandatory to carry a valid passport or national ID.
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