Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore

Take the ferry to tropical plant-covered Isola Bella, the home of ornate gardens, a palace, and museum. At the museum, see one room Napoleon once called home. In another room, English, French, and Italian representatives met in a last-ditch attempt to head off World War II. At the palace, look for the grottos entirely covered in seashell mosaics. You can take an audio tour to fully appreciate the palace's history. Outside, you'll be treated to views of the lake and the landscaped tropical gardens. Work out when and for how long to visit Isola Bella and other Stresa attractions using our handy Stresa day trip planning app.