We will be flying into Milan at the end of May and renting a car for a week. First, I'm a little nervous. I have driven all over Greece and survived but somehow Italy seems more intimidating. Should I be afraid? We are primarily interested in seeing nature and doing some day hiking (not staying in Milan). Any suggestions or suggested resources. Thank you
Posted by
11500 posts
Milan’s airport is far to the north of Milan. It is near to Lake Maggiore. Driving in
Italy isn’t any different , probably easier than Greece. No, you shouldn’t be afraid.
You haven’t made reservations yet and I recommend you get them now! For an easy drive from MXP, stay in Ranco on the SE coast of Lake Maggiore, a perfect place to recover from jet lag. Are you interested in hiking in the Dolomites? We stayed in Ortisei, with wonderful hiking.
Posted by
OP
Tucson, AZ
60 posts
Thanks. Any recommendations for lodging in Ranco? We are definitely interested in day-hiking in the Dolomites. What will the conditions be like at the time (early June). Again, any recommendations greatly appreciated.
Posted by
11500 posts
Ortisei: we stayed at a family owned and run hotel, Hotel Grones. The staff helped us plan our bikes.
Ranco: we stayed at Il Sole di Ranco on the lakefront.
Posted by
martinez, ca, usa
2378 posts
hey hey peterv
make sure you get an IDP (international driving permit) from AAA.com
read up about it on the site, you can apply online, 2 passport photos, drivers license, $20 fee. get it the same day. good for a year
aloha
Posted by
Minnesota, Wisconsin & Italy
98 posts
Driving outside of Milan is a breeze. Consider driving along the western shore of Lago di Garda on your way to the Dolomites. Stunning views from high above the lake! By early June the lifts and the huts in the Dolomites will be open so it is a great time to visit. I suggest planning on at least a few days in the region. Day trippers always risk arriving when the mountains are under a shroud of clouds. If you have a few days, you should be able to enjoy some lovely scenery. Here's a resource you may find helpful to plan your trip: https://throneandvine.com/dolomites/
Posted by
OP
Tucson, AZ
60 posts
Thanks Kate. The resource looks great. Any itinerary suggestions?
Posted by
11500 posts
When we went to the Dolomites, we drove north on the west side of Lake Garda , spent a night in charming Saló. No Ameticans there, all Europeans. On our return south from the Dolomites we spent a night lakefront in Malcesine, Pretty views but not as nice a town as Saló. We stayed in Ortisei at Hotel Grones in the Dolomites, highly recommend.