This will be our third trip to Italy. We are in our late 60's/early 70's in good shape but recent knee surgery. We love good walks, but hiking is not for us. Cinque Terre and the Lakes are on my bucket list. I know Cinque Terre is overcrowded, but still think we can enjoy it. We are traveling mid-September and so far, this is our itinerary:
Fly into Milan, train to Monterosso. Four nights in Monterosso, knowing the first day will be a wipeout. We have a shuttle from the train station to the hotel. This is the only hotel I have reserved but it could be changed at this point.
Train back to Milan, rent a car and drive to Bellagio (Lake Como area) for three nights.
The next 5 nights is where we are struggling. Definitely at 2-3 more nights on either Lake Garda or Maggiore. If you could choose only one of these lakes, which would you recommend?
Or the rest of the 2-3 nights in Bologna or the other Lake?
We want to end the trip in Milan with three nights.
We love beautiful views, some good architecture and museums and great food. We are looking at taking this trip with some down days to enjoy just relaxing and enjoy the environment whether it be by the pool, on a beach or just cruising the lakes.
Thank you in advance for your recommendations.