Hello. My 16-year old son and I are traveling to Switzerland this summer for two weeks. We will spend about 10 days in the Bernese Oberland. The first four days, we can either fly into Zurich and spend time in Bern and Lucerne, or fly into Milan and spend time in Lago Maggiore (Stresa). I am really torn on this--is there enough to do at Lago Maggiore for 4 days? Thank you all very much for your thoughts.
Posted by
Niagara, Ontario
1677 posts
I don't know where you will be based but you can make day trips to both Bern and Lucerne from the Bernese. If visiting Maggiore from Milan, would you then be driving north to catch a return flight from Zurich or will you be flying between the two? I liked Maggiore somewhat but much prefer Bodensee, based in Uberlingen or Meersburg.
If you are renting a car and have not booked your flight yet, car rentals are much cheaper from the French side of Basel Airport.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Hello. We have the last 10 days fully booked, so we only have the first 4 days available. We can fly into either Zurich or Lucerne, and will be traveling by train. That's why it seems easier to visit Lucerne/Bern from Zurich or Lago Maggiore from Milan. Thanks for your help.
Posted by
Switzerland
408 posts
Depends on the kid, but I would say there is more of interest to a 16 yr old in Lucerne and/or Bern, where you will have a greater choice of activities.
Lago Maggiore/Stresa is very scenic but might be a bit boring for your son, especially if you happen to get rainy weather. And if the weather is good, well in Lucerne you will have equally beautiful lake/mountain scenery with the added plus of more things to do, more lively atmosphere, etc. Bern makes a great day trip or stopover on your way to the Oberland.