Overview
Stresa is a small but elegant resort town of 5,000 residents on the south shore of Borromean Bay, an arm of Lake Maggiore in Piedmont, northern Italy. The town serves as the gateway to the celebrated Borromean Islands—three islands topped with ornate Baroque palaces and lush Italianate gardens.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Food
Lake fish is the specialty, especially on Isola dei Pescatori. Piedmont wine is excellent and affordable. Budget 15–30 € for a casual meal; fine dining can reach 50–80 € per person.
Money
Italy uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available in town. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but some smaller establishments are cash-only.
Safety
Stresa is very safe. Watch for "Lake Pirates"—unofficial sellers outside the ferry terminal trying to divert tourists to overpriced water taxis. Buy ferry tickets inside the terminal.
Transport
Stresa is on the Milan–Domodossola rail line; trains from Milan Centrale take about 90 minutes. Navigazione Laghi ferries run to the Borromean Islands March–October. Water taxis available after ferry hours.
Weather
Best time is late March through October when island palaces are open. July–August are busiest; May, June, and September offer milder crowds. Winters are quiet with reduced services.