My husband and I are planning a trip to Milan and would like to include a few days in the Lakes region. We will use the train/public transportation. We would like advice for an itinerary. We plan to leave around April 26th. Recommendations on what to see and where to stay would be greatly appreciated.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
I assume there's no business reason you chose Milan and that all seven days are for sightseeing. See a list of the major city attractions at https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy/milan - it looks pretty long but none of these are blockbuster (3-star) sights, so two days in the city is plenty for me. Note the link on the same page to Rick's guidebook, which is a great starting place. On Lake Como, he covers the mid-lake area around Varenna and Bellagio (3 nights). On Lake Maggiore, he covers Stresa (2 nights). Both areas are a direct, one-hour train ride from Milan, but getting between them will also be back through Milan. Schedules at www.trenitalia.com.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
Milano is one of my favorite cities, but you can see a lot of it in a couple of days. It is only an hour to Bergamo if you want a daytrip; Certosa di Pavia is another option.
Either Lago Maggiore or Lago di Como will give you great lake options.
Posted by
Granite Bay, CA
1951 posts
Lake Como staying in Varenna is wonderful! You'd think being a RS village would make it overrun with tourists, but it isn't. It is very small and very beautiful! Take the boat to Bellagio and other areas of the lake. Take a cooking class with chef Moreno e Rossella
www.ilcaminettoonline.com