Isola dei Pescatori, also known as the Fishermen’s Island, is the smallest among the three Borromean Islands on Lago Maggiore. It’s sometimes referred to as Isola Superiore.
If you had to sum up life on this small Italian island in just three words, “La dolce Vita” would likely capture it best. This charming Italian village, measuring 100 metres in width and 350 metres in length, promises unforgettable memories in Italy.
Once, this island relied solely on fishing but now it has shifted to tourism as its main economy. Fishing still remains a part of local life, albeit not as the primary source of income.
Fun fact: Although Isola dei Pescatori is part of the Borromean Islands, it’s no longer owned by the Borromeo family. It’s now under the jurisdiction of Stresa!
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Where is Isola dei Pescatori?
Isola dei Pescatori, along with the other two Borromean Islands, Isola Bella and Isola Madre, are a major attraction in southern Lake Maggiore. In the same area as the luxurious lakeside town of Stresa.
Isola Bella takes the spotlight among the three islands and is together with Pescatori a must-visit when in Stresa.
If you have time, consider combining two or even all three islands for a full day visit to the Borromean Islands.
Related post: Isola Bella on Lago Maggiore. Here, you’ll find detailed instructions on the best ways to reach Stresa from Milan, whether by train or car, as well as instructions for arrivals from the north, such as Switzerland.
How to get there
A short 10-minute ride on a small motorboat or the public ferry from a dock in Stresa will take you to Isola dei Pescatori.
Simply head to the main dock near Piazza Marconi in Stresa and find one of the boat captains. They’ll likely approach you first, offering various packages. Just let them know you only wish to visit Isola dei Pescatori, and they’ll take you there.
Boats depart every 30 minutes, so you’ll never have to wait long to reach this charming Italian fisherman’s village.
Have your camera ready as you whizz by the more famous Isola Bella. Admire the gardens and architecture from the lake.
Other Boat Docks
Isola dei Pescatori can also be reached from Arona, Verbania, and Baveno if necessary, but Stresa offers the easier, quicker, and more direct route. Click here to see the boat navigation map on Lake Maggiore.
Things To Do on Isola dei Pescatori
Sometimes, time is not on our side, but when visiting the southern part of Lago Maggiore, you should always make time to visit Isola dei Pescatori.
What makes this island so special is its small size and quaint charm, not to mention its location on Lago Maggiore.
Being the smallest of the Borromean Islands with only two streets and a population of about 50 (as of 2024), Isola dei Pescatori is a gem.
However, during peak times, this place gets crowded. My suggestion is to plan a visit to Lago Maggiore during the shoulder seasons.
The Streets on The Island
You visit the island for its charm, quaint looks, and Italian feel. Walk along both of the main cobblestone streets, and you will be fully immersed in the atmosphere. Note, that all entry doors to the houses face the inside of the island, not towards the lake. This is done purposely to prevent water from entering the houses during the (unfortunately) yearly flooding season.
Shopping & Restaurants
I lost count of how many restaurants are on this island. Here’s a travel tip: the price for a pizza increases by a whopping 4 euros the closer you get to the waterfront. We found some beautiful little taverns tucked away on the inside of the island where the food was cheaper and also more authentic.
Souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and all kinds of local food can be bought on the island. Yes, the island is a tourist trap, so be prepared when you visit Isola dei Pescatori on Lago Maggiore that you won’t be alone.
Tourist Attractions
There are a few attractions you might want to check out when on the island.
Fishing Museum: One of them is the old elementary school, now turned into a small fishing museum. The museum is small but well worth a quick stop.
It allows you to step back in time and get a feel for what it was like living here when fishing was still the island’s only source of income. Furthermore, you will learn a lot about Lago Maggiore itself, its topography, and the types of fish the lake holds.
One surprising fact we learned is that Lago Maggiore is 372 metres (1,220 feet) deep at its deepest point. That is pretty deep for any lake.
Church of San Vittore: While wandering the cobblestone streets, you will come across the beautiful Church of San Vittore. You see its tower when you arrive by boat. Some aspects and the windows date back to the 11th century. Step inside to find 16th-century frescos.
Finishing Your Visit to isola Dei Pescatori
Don’t miss out on walking the outskirts of the island, grabbing a gelato, and finding a nice spot to sit down and just relax.
You may also like to read our other Tips and suggestions around Nothern Italy. Places like Cinque Terre are not far away. And why not plan a Road trip through Tuscany.
Hotels on Isola Dei Pescatori
If you’re tempted to stay the night, you’re in luck because you can. Enjoy the island and once all the other day tourists have returned to Stresa, become part of the approximately 50 locals. It must be beautiful and definitely something we would like to do next time we visit Lago Maggiore in the Lombardian Piedmont region of Italy.
Due to the island’s popularity and the fact that fishing is no longer a source of income, locals have turned their homes into holiday apartments. Despite the size of the island, you will find quite a few choices for hotels and other accommodations on Isola dei Pescatori.
Browse the map and find your perfect Italian hideaway.
Dining on Isola dei Pescatori
What a romantic gesture it would be during a warm summer night to have dinner on Isola dei Pescatori. This is truly the only Borromean Island where you can comfortably do so. Although you also have the option to enjoy dinner on Isola Bella, the choice of restaurants is more limited.
Note: There are no public boats after 7 pm, and the only way to arrange this special dinner on the island is to liaise directly with the restaurant on Isola dei Pescatori. They all have private boats and will come to pick you up from the mainland. The fees range from 10 to 15 euros per person, depending on your pickup and drop-off locations.
Nearby Attractions
Normally when visiting Isola dei Pescatori I suggest you include a visit to Isola Bella. This will take up most of your day especially if you add Isola Madre. You can purchase your ticket at the same place where you get your boat ticket in Stresa; just mention that you want the trio package. Or get them online with GetYourGuide, a great company offering many different tours and activities around the world.
Alternatively, you can add just two islands to your itinerary. This is what we did: we first visited Isola Bella for about three hours, then hopped on a boat to Isola dei Pescatori for a late lunch.
If you plan to visit all three islands, it’s recommended to start with Isola Madre. Explore the gardens and house before cruising over to Isola Bella, and finish your day with a late lunch at Isola dei Pescatori, followed by a leisurely stroll along the narrow streets, where you’ll find traditional shops, artisanal arts, and souvenirs.
Lake Mergozzo
Just a stone’s throw away from Lake Maggiore lies another gem, Lake Mergozzo. We hopped on our bikes and explored the area before heading to the village itself for a well-deserved Italian gelato. The bike tour around the lake and mountain is family friendly and the bike trail only has a short section on the main road.
Head up Monte Mottarone
For a completely different perspective of Lake Maggiore and its surroundings, head up to Monte Mottarone. Here, you’ll find beautiful hikes and the Alpyland Amusement Park, featuring a thrilling summer toboggan ride. Along the drive up, you’ll also pass by an adventure tree park, which is sure to be a hit with the kids.
Visit Santa Caterina del Sasso
A must visit is to Santa Caterina del Sasso is a Roman Catholic monastery in the Province of Varese, overlooking Lake Maggiore. Perched on a rocky ridge 16 metres above the lake, it boasts a stunning setting.
Book your private tour and cruise on your private boat over Lago Maggiore and visit the monastery.
Our thoughts when Visiting Isola dei Pescatori
Isola dei Pescatori offers a captivating journey into the past, with its quaint charm and historical landmarks. From exploring the Fishing Museum to admiring the ancient Church of San Vittore, there’s plenty to discover on this picturesque island. Whether you choose to stay overnight in one of its charming accommodation or enjoy a romantic dinner by the lakeside, Isola dei Pescatori promises a memorable experience that encapsulates the essence of Italian beauty and tranquility.
So, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this gem on Lago Maggiore and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Lombardia’s Piedmont region.
And if you do have more time, head up to Lake Garda and visit beautiful Bardolino
