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There are four Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore : Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isolino di San Giovanni, the only one not open to the public.

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Lake Maggiore was one of the favourite destinations of the Lombard nobility. The islands still belong to the Borromeo family, originally from Florence, with the exception of Dei Pescatori. It is wonderful to come across these four gems floating on the lake amidst the mountain setting: a true paradise for romantics and not to be missed <a href="/italy/">during a visit to Italy</a>. 
To get to the islands, I took a boat from the quiet village of Baveno, where I was staying. You can also embark at Stresa, Carciano or Pallanza. Each island has its own character: Isola Bella, the most sumptuous is overlooked by the Baroque palace built by Charles Borromeo III in the 17th century. The island takes its name from his wife, the Countess Isabella d'Adda. Previously a favourite haunt for high society, the palace, as well as the adjoining magnificent Baroque gardens, are now open to the public. 
Isola dei Pescatori or Isola Superiore, my favourite island, is simpler and more authentic, harbouring a picturesque fishing village with narrow winding streets reminiscent of Mediterranean villages. Tourism is well developed here, as can be seen by the many restaurants and souvenir stalls which do not detract from the charm of the island. 
Then there is Isola Madre, also known as Isola Maggiore, which is less spectacular than Isola Bella. It is the largest and quietest island, where you can wander around the oldest botanical garden in Italy. The Borromean palace of the 17th century (less impressive than the one on Isola Bella) with its famous puppet theatre is found here. You will need a day to visit all the "major" gems!

There are four Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore : Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isolino di San Giovanni, the only one not open to the public.

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<a href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/italy/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/italy/"></a><a data-destination-id="10" data-internal-link="destination">Italy</a> has long been hailed as one of Europe’s, if not the world’s best locations for culture, art, and food and ever since the Renaissance it has proved itself to be an incredible all round destination, whether you’re looking for a romantic break, and active holiday, a getaway with the family or a chance to learn more about something that interests you. Italy’s size makes it the perfect option for a one week getaway with the choice to travel around a little or simple stay in one of the country’s incredible cities, or out in the picturesque countryside. <h3>Best things to see and do for one week in Italy</h3><h4>What to see in one week</h4>Many of Italy’s sites are so famous that they are well-known to many visitors, even before they’ve arrived. This gives travellers an advantage during their week long itinerary, since they can pre-plan what they would like to see and do without too much preparation, making the most of their 7 days here. For those who’ve never visited Italy before, a trip to <a data-place-id="8328" data-internal-link="place">Rome</a> is unmissable, to see some of the country’s most renowned attractions such as The famous Colosseum, the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain. As the home to some of history’s most famous artists, the city is filled with museums and galleries and you won’t be disappointed by the stunning exhibitions that you’ll find there. Visit the Leonardo Da Vinci museum, or <a data-place-id="17274" data-internal-link="place">The Vatican</a> to see some amazing works. If art is your passion, then your next stop should be <a data-place-id="7190" data-internal-link="place">Florence</a>, where you can admire the works of the great Renaissance painters in the incredible backdrop of Florence’s old streets before enjoying a traditional meal in the city. Just outside of Florence, you can find the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa where you can admire this bizarre structure and even try your hand at taking on of the famous pictures with the monument. Venice is yet another amazing place to visit on a week long tour of Italy and you can take a gondola ride through the city’s canals before enjoying traditional gelato and a coffee in the most beautiful city in the world.<h4>What to do in one week</h4>Italy has so much to offer its visitors, whether you want to relax for a week or to push yourself to the max, with adventures every single day. The Amalfi Coast offers everyone something to their liking and here you can stay in a luxury hotel, enjoying dips in the sea, lounging in the sun and tasting delicious food and wine or you can throw yourself into an adventure as you hike, cycle, sail or horse ride along the coast. For more water-sports, visit the famous Lake Como to enjoy incredible scenery and activities for all ages. Italy’s islands are a great choice for those who want to get off-the-beaten-track and avoid the crowds. Head to Capri for mountainous scenery and excellent hiking trails or to Burano to see life in a traditional setting on this small fishing island. If hiking is on your list, why not visit famous sites such as Mount Vesuvius or Mount Etna to feel as though you’ve really accomplished something during your one week itinerary in Italy? If you want to return home with a few new skills under your belt then Italy is the perfect place. Enroll onto a cooking class or a painting course to come away from your trip with a souvenir to last a lifetime and maybe even to recreate a little bit of Italy once you return home and to learn how to make delicious Italian delicacies or to recreate the techniques employed by the great masters of Renaissance art.<h3>Best time to travel to Italy for a week</h3>Like most of Europe, Italy is a year-round destination and no matter <a href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/italy/holidays/when-to-go/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/italy/holidays/when-to-go/"></a><a data-document-id="6561" data-internal-link="article">when you visit</a>, you’ll find something to love about this beautiful country. During the summer months, tourists flood into the cities and more famous spots, such as the Amalfi Coast to enjoy the perfect weather and the well-known tourist attractions. This can mean that prices rise dramatically during the peak months of July and August, with availability dropping for most accommodation and activities. If you do decide to make the most of the sun and abundance of activities during this period, make sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. During the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn you will encounter far fewer crowds and you will find that prices are generally cheaper. During the winter and spring, why not visit one of Italy’s ski resorts for idyllic views and equal ski conditions to the busier and more touristy French Alps? Whenever you decide to <a href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/italy/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/italy/">visit Italy</a>, you’ll never want to leave once you get a taste of everything this place has to offer.

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