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Wengen into Northern Italy itinerary advice

My husband and I are planning a 20th anniversary trip in the first two weeks of September for probably 9 nights on the ground. We would like to hit Switzerland and Italy (proposed itinerary below), flying into Zurich and out of Milan. My biggest trouble is deciding where in Italy to hit. Factors to consider are that we will NOT be driving but traveling by rail, we are active (mid-40s) but also looking for eating/drinking, the views, relaxing... We don't need museums, historical sites, but are more into nature, shopping, restaurants. Prefer charming over big cities/touristy spots. I'm pretty set on Lucerne and Wengen but having a hard time with Italy days. We were originally thinking Dolomites but I think it's just too hard to fit in without a car. SO... I've read Stressa is highly recommended and think it will be an easier venture from Wengen. How many nights would you spend there? Where would be good for the final couple of nights? Lugano vs Como??? Any other suggestions welcome. Thank you!!!

Fly into Zurich, immediately head to Lucerne
Lucerne - 1 night
Wengen 3 nights
Stressa - 2 nights???
Lugano or Varenna - 2 nights???
Milan - 1 night ( or add a night to one of lakes above and early morning private transfer to airport)???

Posted by
22340 posts

I'd add a night to Luzern and Wengen and take the Alibus from Stresa to Malpensa and spend the night in an airport hotel. Less changing lodging and more enjoying.

Posted by
1067 posts

I think you’re trying to fit too much into 9 days and will spend a lot of your time moving with this itinerary. Pick 3 spots max. Either 2 spots in Switzerland + 1 in Italy or 1 in Switzerland and 2 in Italy.

Luzern can be seen in half a day, while there are a lot of nature and villages around Wengen to explore.
Maybe….
Luzern 1 night > Wengen 5 Nights > Somewhere in Italy within reasonable distance to the Milan airport - 3 nights

Someone else will have to chime in on Italy, as I've yet to find a really relaxing place in Italy that I loved. I can say though that Lugano is not a small, charming place. It very much feels like a city. As does Luzern.

Posted by
22340 posts

I suggest extra time in Luzern not to see the city, but or the great boat tours of the Vierwaldstaettersee (Lake Luzern) and to stop at villages along the way like Weggis and Vitznau and visit the Rigi summit.