North-West Tour
A stay in Milan can also involve exploring the surrounding area, featuring the famous lakes and other cities of historic and cultural interest.
The first itinerary takes in the area to the north-west of the city, towards the main lake areas, including natural areas and landscapes of particular interest.
The day can begin with breakfast at Hotel Alga, which offers a buffet with sweet and savoury options, also including solutions for those with different dietary requirements.
The first itinerary heads north, towards Lake Como. The city of Como is the first stop, from where you can see the lake and ride the Como-Brunate funicular, which leads to Brunate, a panoramic viewpoint looking over the entire lake.
After visiting the historic centre, you can continue via lake by boat or hydrofoil, reaching Cernobbio and then Bellagio.
Cernobbio is known for its historic villas, including Villa d’Este and Villa Erba. Bellagio, often defined as the pearl of Lake Como, is one of the area’s most representative towns, featuring a well-structured historic centre, views over the lake, and prestigious residences.
Continuing towards neighbouring Switzerland we reach Lugano, on the shore of the eponymous lake, where the landscape combines lake and mountain elements. The city features a well-structured historic centre, a casino, and a natural setting in which the lake and mountains come together harmoniously.
From Lugano it is possible to ascend Monte San Salvatore with the funicular railway, which provides a wide view over the entire lake.
Potential points of interest include the Chocolate Alprose Experience Center, a museum and shop dedicated to chocolate, and Villa Ciani, located in the city centre and surrounded by a 63,000 sqm park, featuring long boulevards, ancient trees and both Italianate and English gardens looking out onto the lake.
Returning to Italy, you will arrive at Lake Varese, smaller than the other lakes but surrounded by characteristic towns.
Some of the most interesting of these are Schiranna, with a recently renovated lakefront road offering walks along the lake shore; Capolago, a mediaeval hamlet dating back to the 12th century; and Bodio Lomnago, which offers a view over the entire lake. The area stands as a set of small inhabitations of historic origin which contribute to defining the area's character.
A short distance from Varese is Lake Maggiore, the second largest Italian lake after Lake Garda, featuring landscapes and locales of particular interest.
Stresa is one of the main points of access to the lake and one of its best-known towns, with a lakeside drive which hosts events and boat connections to the Borromean Islands.
The Borromean Islands consist of three main islands. Isola Madre, the largest, hosts a botanical garden with exotic species and rare plants, which peacocks, pheasants and other animals roam freely. Isola Bella is known for its Baroque palace and terraced garden. Finally, Isola dei Pescatori is a hamlet which is still inhabited, featuring a traditional layout and a more picturesque and cosy atmosphere.
South-East tour
A stay in Milan can also involve exploring the surrounding area, featuring the famous lakes and other cities of historic and cultural interest.
The second itinerary sets off towards the south east, in discovery of cities such as Mantua and Bergamo, both featuring notable historic and urban heritage.
sport tour
Milan offers a range of opportunities for outdoor activities and well-being.
The city features numerous areas and opportunities for sports and recreational activities, with solutions which adapt to different levels of requirements.