How to Visit Brissago Islands from Locarno

To plan your trip, review Locarno travel info.

For official information, visit Locarno travel info.

Follow the clear signs in Locarno leading to the main passenger boat docks along the waterfront. Most boats stop at the charming town of Ascona before continuing toward the botanical gardens. Visitors should ideally arrive at the pier at least fifteen minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows plenty of time to secure a comfortable seat on the scenic upper deck.

Pack a light jacket because the breeze on the lake can feel quite cool even in summer. You can find many snack bars near the Locarno docks for a quick morning coffee or bite. Most boats provide indoor and outdoor seating areas to accommodate different weather conditions throughout the day. The voyage offers amazing photo opportunities of the Swiss Alps reflecting in the deep water.

Boat Tour Options and Transportation Costs

You can choose between large public ferries or smaller, faster taxi boat services across the lake. Public ferries offer a steady schedule and comfortable seating for all types of travelers. These boats provide the most affordable way to travel across the beautiful and deep blue waters. Experience the New Lake Maggiore boat tours for a modern and stylish journey to the islands.

Private boat rentals offer a more intimate experience for couples and small family groups visiting Ticino. You can set your own pace and enjoy customized scenic routes around the entire lake region. Check the private boat rental prices in Locarno 2026 to plan your daily travel budget effectively. These private options allow for flexible timing and more privacy during your afternoon trip.

Group discounts are often available for parties of ten or more travelers heading to the gardens. Children and seniors usually qualify for reduced fares on the official Swiss public ferry system. Keep your physical or digital ticket ready for inspection whenever you are boarding the boat system. You will find that most staff members are very helpful and speak multiple international languages.

Exploring the Brissago Botanical Gardens

The islands host the only botanical park in Switzerland located entirely on a beautiful lake. You will find thousands of plant species from the Mediterranean and different subtropical regions worldwide. The unique microclimate allows these exotic flowers to thrive throughout the warm spring and summer seasons. Walking along the well-kept paths reveals colorful blooms and rare trees from many far countries.

Visitors can explore the historic villa which now serves as a very pleasant lakeside restaurant. Enjoy a refreshing drink while overlooking the mountains that surround the crystal clear and blue water. The small island, Isola di Sant’Apollinare, remains mostly wild and offers very peaceful nature walks. Plan for at least two hours to see every beautiful corner of this green island paradise.

Look for the Roman bath ruins that add a touch of ancient history to the gardens. These stone structures create a beautiful contrast against the green foliage of the main island gardens. Educational signs provide interesting facts about the various plants and their original country of origin. This is a fantastic place for families to learn about nature in a fun way.

Essential Planning Tips for 2026 Travels

Tickets for the botanical gardens are usually sold separately from the standard ferry transportation costs. Combined tickets are often available at the Locarno ticket office for much better overall value. Adult entry fees generally cost around ten Swiss Francs for the botanical park access alone. Check the Ascona-Locarno Tourism website for the most current and updated price information.

The islands are open to the general public from late March until early November each year. Always verify the daily opening hours before you start your morning journey from the Locarno area. Many visitors choose to combine this trip with a fun stop in the town of Ascona. This makes for a full day of exploration in the sunny and warm Ticino region.

Wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended for exploring all the winding island garden trails. See some sections of the garden include stairs or slightly uneven gravel paths for visitors. The island is accessible for strollers but some specific areas might require extra effort to reach. Public restrooms and water fountains are available near the main restaurant building for your convenience.

Scenic Dining and Relaxation on the Water

Spring is the perfect season to see the camellias and azaleas in full bloom here. The air feels fresh and the garden colors are exceptionally vibrant during April and May seasons. Summer offers the warmest weather for those who enjoy long boat rides in the bright sun. Autumn brings golden light that makes the surrounding lakeside mountains look truly spectacular and bright.

Try to visit on a weekday to avoid the larger weekend tourist crowds from the city. Early morning departures from Locarno provide the quietest and most relaxing experience on the scenic islands. You will have more space to photograph the rare plants without featuring many other people. Even new sunset cruises on Lake Maggiore Locarno offer a different perspective of these islands.

Winter visitors should note that the islands generally close during the coldest months of the year. Maintenance work occurs during this time to prepare the flowers for the coming spring season. Checking the official calendar prevents any disappointment when planning your winter holiday in the Ticino region. The surrounding mountains often have snow caps while the lake water remains deep blue.