Planning a trip to the Italian Lakes? This week-long itinerary brings together the best of the region, from the elegance of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, to relaxing Lake Iseo and lively Lake Garda. Seven days is ideal for getting an idea of the area as a whole, although you’ll undoubtedly find yourself wanting to stay longer…
Day 1 - Verona
Spend the day exploring the noble palaces, quiet cloisters and ancient streets of Romeo and Juliet’s city, Verona. Several local monuments to Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers can be found scattered across the city, including Juliet’s Balcony, Romeo’s house and the so-called Tomb of Juliet. For an unforgettable end to the day, catch an opera performance at the Roman Arena. Completed in AD 30, it is the third largest Roman amphitheatre in the world.
Day 2 - Valpolicella and Lake Garda
Crossing the famous wine district of Valpolicella on your way to Lake Garda, it would be rude not to sample some of the local vintage so make a stop at Tenuta Canova for their Masi label wines. Next, head north for a picnic and a swim at the picturesque Punta San Vigilio. Continue to Malcesine to see the 13th century Castello Scaligero before taking the cable car up Monte Baldo. Finally, retrace your steps and end the day with a sunset boat trip at the historical town of Sirmione.
Day 3 - Lake Iseo and Bergamo
Set off early for Lake Iseo and catch the ferry to the peaceful traffic-free island of Monte Isola. Stretch your legs with a walk up to Madonna della Ceriola, taking in stunning views over the island, followed by a lunch of lake fish. In the afternoon, make your way to Bergamo and explore the upper town before taking the funicular to San Vigilio for dinner at one of the handful of restaurants in this tiny neighbourhood that offer spectacular views across elaborate gardens.
Day 4 - Milan
Move on to Milan, indulge in some serious window-shopping and visit the remarkable Duomo. The third-largest church in Europe. The Duomo took almost six centuries to complete. Clamber over the roof for a dizzying look over its marble spires and statues to the city’s skyline beyond. Later, explore the buzzing bars and restaurants of the Navigli District.
Day 5 - Como
Head to the lakeside town of Como and visit the Duomo. Take the funicular from the waterfront to Brunate. Walk to the Volta Lighthouse and admire the views, then return to Brunate for lunch. Back in Como, hop on a ferry to Bellagio and make the most of a Centro Lago ferry ticket, spending the afternoon hopping between villages, particularly Lenno, Varenna and Menaggio.
Day 6 - Lake Maggiore
Dedicate the day to Lake Maggiore, with a foray across the border to Switzerland at Ascona. This Swiss town is a big attraction for artists, and galleries and craft shops line its cobbled streets. Stop at Cannobio for its pretty town centre and steep lanes, before heading to Stresa. Surrounded by the green slopes of Mottarone, Stresa offers splendid views over the Borromean Islands and the lake beyond.
Day 7 - Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Lake Orta
The day starts with a visit to the striking Isola Bella where a tiered garden awaits exploration before wandering the cobbled lanes of authentic fishing village Isola dei Pescatori. Next, return to the mainland and travel to the western-most of the lakes, Lake Orta, for a relaxing end to the week at the village of Orta San Giulio, often referred to as the “pearl” of the lake. One of the loveliest places in the region, it is the perfect spot to finish your trip.
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