North-west Tour
A stay in Milan can also involve exploring the surrounding area, featuring the famous lakes and other cities of interest.
The first itinerary takes in the area to the north-west of the city, discovering the lake areas and breathtaking landscapes of particular interest.
After a buffet breakfast at Hotel Santa Barbara, which includes American breakfast offerings, a gluten-free corner and various solutions for a balanced start to the day, with organic products and fruit (sliced, fruit salad, fruit in syrup, tropical fruits and smoothies), you can set off north towards Lake Como.
The first stop is the city of Como, where you will find breathtaking views of the eponymous lake. For a panoramic view you can take the funicular up to Brunate, which offers a view over the entire lake.
After visiting the historic centre, you can continue via lake by boat or hydrofoil, towards Cernobbio and then Bellagio, which offers a different and more immersive viewing point.
Cernobbio is known for its historic villas, including Villa d’Este and Villa Erba, as well as for its landscape.
Continuing, you will reach Bellagio, often defined as the pearl of Lake Como, featuring picturesque alleyways, colourful buildings and luxury lakeside villas.
Continuing towards neighbouring Switzerland you will arrive in Lugano, on the shore of the eponymous lake. The city features an 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 complete view of the entire lake. In the city you will also find the Chocolate Alprose Experience Center, a museum and shop dedicated to chocolate.
Also worth a visit is Villa Ciani, located in the city centre and surrounded by a 63,000 sqm park, featuring tree-lined boulevards, ancient plants and both Italianate and English gardens looking out onto the lake.
Returning to Italy, you will arrive at Lake Varese, the smallest lake on the itinerary, but surrounded by numerous villages.
Of these, Schiranna offers a recently renovated lakefront road, perfect for walks along the lake shore; Capolago is a mediaeval hamlet dating back to the 13th century; and Bodio Lomnago, which offers a view over the entire lake.
Together, these villages help define the identity of the lake, featuring ancient historic centres.
Next to Lake Varese is Lake Maggiore, the second largest Italian lake after Lake Garda, and known for its views.
Stresa is the main starting point for exploring the lake: the lakeside drive hosts international events, and boats set off here for the Borromean Islands.
There are three main islands in this chain: 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 splendid Baroque palace and terraced botanical garden; Isola dei Pescatori contains an ancient and picturesque village which is still inhabited.
SOUTH-EAST TOUR
A stay in Milan can also involve exploring the surrounding area, featuring other cities of historic and cultural interest.
The second itinerary sets off towards the south east, in discovery of evocative destinations such as Mantua and Bergamo.
sport Tour
Milan offers numerous opportunities for those who wish to keep in shape and get some fresh air and contact with nature.
Numerous sports and activities take place across the city, making it a destination suitable for a range of pastimes, from fitness to open-air sports.