Hi there. I am planning a trip next September for my husband and I. I have been all over the map with my locations and after much reading realized we just can't see it all. While we appreciate the historical/museum vacations this time around we were looking for that sweet spot between relaxing/beach and historical/active/sightseeing....it's a birthday/anniversary trip. I had the Lake Region and the Amalfi Coast as a must see but again worried it may be too far. Recently I have decided after reading how crazy expensive AC is that we do Sardinia instead and skip the AC. So, I'm wondering if anyone can help me figure out how to possibly see the Lake region and hit Sardinia...maybe fly into Milan or Florence and then drive to Lake Como and then train to Rome where we would fly direct to Sardinia...or fly into Rome - fast train to Milan, drive to Como and then fly from Milan? We need to keep it to 7-10 days. Do you think I will regret not seeing the AC....Coming from Philly...Please help me!!!
Posted by
North Italy
400 posts
Hi, first of all 7/10 days isn't time to see much. Two destinations are probably plenty. If you want to choose one of the lakes fly into Milan
If you then decide to go to Sardinia you can fly from Milan or Bergamo without going all the way to Rome unless Rome is one of your destinations to visit.
Either way if you want relaxing/beach plus history and sightseeing Sicily fits the bill better than Sardinia.
Sardinia is very much nature and beaches and if you are only there a very few days in September the weather could be windy.
Here are some ideas about the Syracuse area of Sicily
https://slowtravelitalyspain.blogspot.com/2019/06/?m=1
Or Palermo....
https://slowtravelitalyspain.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2019-03-15T09:13:00-07:00&max-results=11&m=1
There are flights to Sicily from Milan or Orio Bergamo....
I have travelled a lot in Italy but not yet been to the Amalfi coast......
Posted by
🏝️ Hobe Sound, FL⛱️
3300 posts
A few short years ago I spent 10 days exploring and enjoying both Sardinia (7 days) and Corsica (3 days). Flying into Rome and then to Càgliari , I drove up the east coast of Sardinia, took the ferry to Corsica driving around the island anti clockwise and returned driving down the west coast of Sardinia. I was awed by the natural beauty whether the fantastic coastlines or the rugged interiors. No major museums or phenomenal works of art but small, interesting museums, churches and interesting archaeological sites. September weather was beautiful, high season was over so I saw no crowds and restaurants and hotels were happy to see you. People are friendly, local food is unique to the islands and terrific. I’m going back next year.
Posted by
872 posts
You have time for two stops. What is your home airport?
Posted by
3124 posts
Let's say you will have 10 days away from home (Philly) with 8 days on the ground in Italy. A round trip to Milan from Newark or BWI should be possible, yes?
Given your two top priorities -- Lake region and Sardinia -- from Milan I'd transfer to a flight to Sardinia for 4 nights. Then, fly back to Milan and head to the Lake region for 3-4 nights. The last night before your homebound flight should be spent near the airport. If the logistics/cost of flying to Sardinia (or Corsica) are too complicated, you could choose a destination on the Italian riviera, someplace between Genoa and Monaco. See, for example, https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/liguria/where-is-the-italian-riviera
September is likely to be still warm enough to enjoy beachgoing, while the Lake region may be chilly especially in the evenings.