Lugano & Lake Maggiore Day Trip
Day Trip Details
At the indicated time, we’ll meet in Piazza IV Novembre, next to the majestic Hotel Gallia. From this point in Milan, we’ll head north by bus, cross the border, and enter the alpine landscapes of Switzerland. Let’s go!
Our first stop will be Lugano, the most important city in the Ticino region. As soon as we arrive, we’ll find ourselves immersed in a perfect blend of Switzerland and Mediterranean style. We’ll walk along the lakeside promenade, lined with flowers and sculptures, and wander through the historic streets of the old town.
You’ll have 1.5 hours of free time to enjoy a coffee in Piazza della Riforma, browse the luxury boutiques on Via Nassa, and visit the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli, home to the most famous Renaissance fresco in Switzerland.
We’ll leave Switzerland behind and return to Italy to reach Lake Maggiore, the second largest lake in the country. Here we’ll board a private boat to enjoy a truly special cruise.
From the water, we’ll spot the spectacular Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, a monastery literally perched on a rocky cliff. We’ll continue sailing while admiring the noble villas and gardens that have made this lake the favorite retreat of European aristocracy for centuries. It’s easy to see why!
The highlight of the boat ride is the Borromean Islands. We’ll admire the silhouette of Isola Madre, famous for its peacocks and exotic gardens, and make strategic stops on Isola dei Pescatori, the only island inhabited year-round. You’ll also have 1 hour of free time to explore its narrow streets filled with fishing nets and local craft shops.
We’ll also reach Isola Bella, where we’ll admire the exterior of Borromeo Palace and its baroque gardens arranged across ten overlapping terraces. Finally, we’ll disembark in Stresa, known as the pearl of Lake Maggiore. This elegant town will bid us farewell with its refined atmosphere and its grand Belle Époque hotels before we begin the return journey by road.
After 11 hours, we’ll conclude the tour back at the starting point in Milan. See you soon!
More Information
Duration
11 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a tour assistant that speaks in English and Spanish.
Included
Transport by bus or minibus
English–speaking guide
Private boat ride on Lake Maggiore
Not included
Food and drinks
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability conditions
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - What should we keep in mind before booking?
A - To cross the border into Switzerland, it’s mandatory to carry a valid passport or national ID.
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Veditalia Corporate name: ACS SRL Registered Office: Via Eugenio Villoresi 4, Milan, Italy Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): IT07277970963 Contact information Email: info@veditalia.com Phone: +390245370660 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
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Piazza IV Novembre, next to Hotel Gallia