We've finally nailed down our itinerary and places to stay in Milan, Varenna, and Stresa. We're planning to take the train from Milan to Varenna. I was wondering though if we should do the train from Varenna-Stresa (I understand it goes through Milan with a transfer?) or is there perhaps anything of interest to see between Varenna and Stresa that would merit either renting a car for a day or hiring a private car/guide, which we have sometimes done on other trips? Thanks for any suggestions/recommendations!
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Basel, Switzerland
8889 posts
Yes, via Lugano.
Varenna -Milan - Stresa is a V-shaped trip. Varenna -Lugano - Stresa is a "short cut" apart from there being two lakes in the way, so it takes longer. But, if you have all day, and do your homework first:
- Ferry across Lake Como to Menaggio
- Local bus to Lugano. Stop for lunch and a stroll round town (Swiss prices!)
- Bus (possibly train + bus) to Luino
- Lake boat across Lake Maggiore to Stresa
Alternative from Lugano, train to Locarno (also on Lake Maggiore) and a lake boat from there.
You could also do this by car, but you would have to research car ferries.