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Discover Lake Maggiore and Lake Como
This route takes you from the fashion metropole Milan to the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Enjoy beautiful gardens, long walks on promenades along the shore and visit marvellous Belle-Epoque villas. From serene island trips, and charming towns to hikes on nearby mountains, this road trip let's you explore the region at leisure.
Your vacation guide also includes a couple of outstanding day trips to easy-reachable places like the enchanting Borromean Islands, the picturesque peninsula Strimione or the medieval town of Bergamo.
How to get there?
This road trip is for visitors, who arrive by plane in Milan. But it is also easily adaptable for those who take one of the budget-flights arriving at the Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY). In this case, just reverse the route order and start with Lake Como. Then Milan becomes your last stop before going back home. Or if you have already seen Milan, you can also easily skip it.
When to go best?
Go between Easter - July and then again in September (avoid August). To see the villa gardens at its best, plan your visit in late spring and early summer.
Milan
A Day in the Heart of Fashion and History
Start your adventure in Milan, arriving by plane. On your first day, just soak in Mailand's atmosphere and enjoy a delicious dinner in the second largest city of Italy.
Spend the next day exploring the major tourist highlights, from the iconic Duomo di Milano to the historic Sforza Castle. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Navigli district and indulge in some Italian gelato as you find a spot to watch the fashionable Milanese people.
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Baveno
On your third day, drive towards Lake Maggiore, Italy's second-largest lake, and find accommodation in one of the charming towns such as Stresa, Baveno or Verbiana. From here you can easily reach the beautiful islands by boat, go hiking or spend your days in the water. Also just take your car and visit the quaint towns along the shore, which are dotted with beautiful lakeside promenades and elegant Belle-Epoque palaces.
What to do at Lake Maggiore
Day Trip 1 Island hopping: Take the ferry or charter a boat to explore the extravagant palaces and gardens on the three enchanting Borromean Islands.
Day Trip 2 Isola Madre: The largest of the Borromean Islands is located between Baveno and Verbania. Explore the elegant Palazzo Borromeo and the immense english-style botanical park. The garden is unique for its rare and exotic plants and a favourite with botanical enthusiasts.
Half-day Trip Stresa: Don't miss the best passeggiata (lakeside promenade) in Stresa. Stroll along the 2km-long promenade, surrounded by florid gardens and grand Liberty-style hotels.
Day Trip 3 Hiking: Lake Maggiore is nestled between stunning landscapes and high mountains. Go to the tourist office to let them help you choose a trail that is right for you.
Day Trip 4 Lago Maggiore Express: This is a great way to explore the northern part of the lake. The round circuit takes you by ferry across Lake Maggiore, where you can view from afar the Castles of Cannero Riviera, the Brissago Islands and Ascona. You will arrive in Locarno in Switzerland at the northern end of the lake. From here, the picturesque Centovalli train takes you through wild and romantic landscapes to Domodossola. You will return to Lake Maggiore with the 'TrenitaIia' and 'Trenord' trains.
Accommodation alternatives: If you prefer to explore the east side of the lake, Angera or Ranco are good options.
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Como
In the morning, drive to Lake Como, the most spectacular of the three major lakes. From here you can see the snow-covered Rhaetian Alps and enjoy the beautiful waterfront.
Recommended Base: We suggest you stay on the south-western lakeside for easy trips to the western shore, Bellagio, but also Bergamo. If you like convenient infrastructure, Como, an elegant Italian city, is a good choice. If you prefer it a bit more quiet, choose on of the hotels hugging the shoreline.
For a quieter alternative, consider staying in Varenna, a tranquil spot with stunning views of Lake Como and the Alps. This town is considered one of the most romantic places in the region. Just take note, that Varenna is on the eastern shore, so you will need to adjust your day trips.
What to do at Lake Como
Day trip 1: Visit Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como. It is renowned for its century-old architecture and luxurious charm. Wander through the town center, marveling at the blend of old-world charm and contemporary grandeur. As night falls, experience the lively atmosphere with bustling restaurants and bars.
Day Trip 2: Bergamo is only a 1:15min drive from Como and it is one of the finest old towns in the Lombardy. The city has two distinct centers - Alto, the old town atop the mountain, and Basso, the newer town below. Enjoy a funicular ride to Alto for spectacular views and stroll along the historic Via Bartolomea Colleoni and Via Gombito with its unique shops, cafes and restaurants. For wonderful panoramic views, explore the 5.3km long Venetian-era defensive walls, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, drive to your hotel on Lake Garda, enjoying a waterfront dinner.
Day Trip 3: Take the funicular from Como up to Brunate for panoramic views of the town and lake. It's best to go up early in the morning for good light and fewer crowds. Also take comfortable shoes with you.
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Milan
As your road trip comes to an end, head back to Milan to catch your flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you can either drive directly to the Milan Malpensa Airport (45min drive) or spend a relaxing evening in Milan. If your flight goes from Bergamo, the drive will take around 1:15 min.
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