Stresa is a tiny town of 5000 inhabitants located on Lake Maggiore in the Gulf of Borromeo. It watches over the famous Bromeo islands which have been the main attraction in the region for decades. The town’s lovely architecture, countryside, and mild climate further increase the allure of this elegant destination with artsy heritage. Luxury villas, picturesque surroundings and busy agenda of cultural events won’t leave you without options when deciding about what to do in Stresa.
Your first inquiry about what to do in Stresa will lead you on a boat. The Borromean Islands (Isole Borromee) are the four famous gems of Lake Maggiore. While you can reach them from various points all around the lake, Stresa and Verbania provide the best access. These islands and the villas that decorate them once belonged to the noble House of Borromeo. The villas burst with elegance while their gardens overflow with lush greenery and exotic animals. Three of the four islands – Madre, Bella, and Superiore (aka Isola dei Pescatori) are opened to visitors, but the tiny island of San Giovanni is off limits. Let's go
There is nothing that captures the spirit of Stresa quite as its elegant waterfront. A simple stroll alongside it the lakefront has the power to transport you to a different time period; to a time when Art Nouveau reigned supreme. The 1.5km long lakeside promenade really leaves you time to soak it all in and ponder over the surrounding views. In fact, it stretches from the ferry station in the center of Stresa all the way to the Lido di Carciano ferry dock which makes it a great “foreplay” to visiting the islands. Out of all the things to see in Stresa, the views it offers rank among the top attractions. Let's go
Although it is possible to drive up to Monte Mottarone using an old toll road, it’s more fun taking a cable car from the shore in Stresa. If anything, the views are a thousand times better. Once you are up, a chairlift (included in the cable car ticket price) awaits to take you to the absolute top for views of Alps from Monte Viso to Ortles as well as the Lake Orta. Furthermore, as you travel higher and higher up the mountain, you can catch postcard-worthy views of Lake Maggiore and the Isole Borromee. Alternatively, if you have a thing for nature, the cable car makes a stop part way up at Alpino where you can visit the Giardino Alpinia.