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Extended Lake Como and Lake Garda Itinerary with One Day in Venice

Day 1 · Sat, Jun 12
Milan, Italy

Arrival in Milan

1.North of England airport Milan — journey; roughly 5–7 hours door-to including flight, airport and transfer. After landing, the Malpensa Express or airport coach to Milano, then taxi or metro to accommodation. 2.Brera district —era; gentle evening through galleries, boutiques and cob streets, ~1.5 hours. . Ristorante Nabucco —era; traditional Milanese dinner, approximately35–€60 per person, ~1.5 hours.

  1. Piazza Gae Aulenti — Porta Nuova; see Milan’s contemporary skyline after dinner, ~45 minutes.

Arrival and Check-in

Allow roughly 5–7 hours door to door from a North of England airport to central Milan, including the flight, baggage collection and the journey from Malpensa Airport. The quickest public-transport option is usually the Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna, taking around 40–55 minutes; airport coaches are often cheaper but can be slower in traffic. From the station, use the metro or a taxi to your accommodation, allowing extra time for Saturday arrivals and check-in. Keep the evening light after travelling, and avoid relying on a tight restaurant booking until you know when you will reach the city.

Evening in Brera

Once settled, stroll through Brera, one of Milan’s most atmospheric neighborhoods, with cobbled lanes, elegant apartment buildings, small galleries and independent boutiques. Allow about 1½ hours for an unhurried walk rather than trying to cover every street. The area is particularly pleasant around Via Fiori Chiari, Via Brera and Piazza del Carmine; galleries and shops may be closing by early evening, but the neighborhood remains lively for aperitivo. If you arrive later than expected, go straight to dinner and keep the walk to a short loop nearby.

For dinner, book Ristorante Nabucco in advance, especially for a Saturday night. It serves traditional Milanese food, with dishes such as risotto alla milanese and ossobuco, at approximately €35–€60 per person before drinks. After dinner, take a taxi or the metro towards Piazza Gae Aulenti—the metro stop Garibaldi FS is close by—and spend around 45 minutes seeing the illuminated contemporary skyline around Porta Nuova. The fountains, high-rises and surrounding pedestrian spaces make this a good low-effort first-night walk; return by metro or taxi once you are ready for bed.

Day 2 · Sun, Jun 13
Milan, Italy

Milan city day

  1. Duomo di Milano — Centro Storico; book cathedral, rooftop and museum entry in advance, ~2 hours.
  2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II — Centro Storico; elegant historic arcade beside the Duomo, ~30 minutes.
  3. Piazza Mercanti — Centro Storico; compact medieval square and atmospheric nearby lanes, ~30 minutes.
  4. Panzerotti Luini — Centro Storico; quick, inexpensive Milanese street-food lunch, approximately €5–€12, ~30 minutes.
  5. Santa Maria delle Grazie — Magenta; view Leonardo’s The Last Supper, strictly dependent on advance timed tickets, ~1 hour.
  6. Navigli canals — Navigli; aperitivo and canal-side evening, approximately €15–€30, ~2 hours.

Morning

Start early at Duomo di Milano, ideally with a pre-booked combination ticket covering the cathedral, rooftop terraces and museum. Allow around two hours, including security; rooftop access is especially worthwhile in clear weather, when the view reaches across the city toward the Alps. June can be hot on the stone terraces, so go as early as your timed entry allows, dress modestly for the cathedral, and avoid large bags. Tickets and exact entry times are best arranged through the official Duomo website rather than bought from touts around the square.

From the cathedral, walk straight into Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for a slow half-hour beneath the glass-and-iron roof, then continue a few minutes to Piazza Mercanti. This compact medieval square is easy to miss amid the grander streets, but it gives you a pleasant glimpse of old Milan; wander the adjoining lanes around Via dei Mercanti before lunch.

Lunch and Afternoon

Pick up lunch at Panzerotti Luini, where the fried and baked panzerotti make an inexpensive, genuinely Milanese stop—roughly €5–€12 depending on what you order. Lines are common but generally move quickly; eat while strolling or find a bench nearby rather than expecting a formal restaurant experience. Afterward, allow about 15–20 minutes to reach Santa Maria delle Grazie: walk to Cadorna and continue on foot, or take the M1 from Duomo toward Buonarroti and walk from there. The church itself is free to enter, but viewing Leonardo’s The Last Supper is strictly limited to timed tickets, with only a short visit inside; if tickets are unavailable, treat this as a brief exterior stop rather than relying on same-day admission.

Evening

Finish in the Navigli canals, reached most simply by tram or metro toward Porta Genova, then wander along Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese as the light softens. Settle into an aperitivo bar for drinks and buffet-style snacks—budget around €15–€30—and keep some time for the quieter side streets around Via Corsico and Vicolo dei Lavandai. Sunday evening is usually more relaxed than Saturday, though popular terraces still fill up; arriving around 18:30–19:00 gives you the best choice of tables.

Day 3 · Mon, Jun 14
Como, Italy

Extended Lake Como stay

Getting there from Milan, Italy
Train via Trenord from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni (about 40 minutes, €5–€6). Depart around 8:00–9:00 to reach Como before morning sightseeing; taxis or a short walk connect to central accommodation.
  1. Como Cathedral (historic centre) — admire the Gothic-Renaissance cathedral before the busiest part of the day, morning, ~45 minutes.
  2. Piazza San Fedele (old town) — explore the medieval square and surrounding lanes at an easy pace, late morning, ~45 minutes.
  3. Ristorante Sociale (old town) — enjoy a relaxed lunch focused on regional cooking, lunchtime, ~1.5 hours.
  4. Como-Brunate Funicular (east of the centre) — ride up for broad views over the lake and surrounding Alps, afternoon, ~2 hours including queues and walking.
  5. Brunate lakeside viewpoints (Brunate) — follow the short signed paths and linger over the panorama, afternoon, ~1 hour.
  6. Lungolago di Como (waterfront) — take a gentle lakeside walk and settle into the slower rhythm of the lake, late afternoon, ~1.5 hours.
  7. Villa Olmo (western waterfront) — extend the promenade towards the villa and its lakeside grounds, early evening, ~1 hour.

Morning

After arriving from Milan, check in or leave your luggage at your accommodation before beginning a deliberately unhurried first day on Lake Como. Start in the centre at Como Cathedral, allowing about 45 minutes for the Gothic façade and Renaissance interior. Dress modestly if you plan to enter, and check the current visiting arrangements locally, as religious services can affect access.

Continue through the old lanes to Piazza San Fedele and the surrounding historic centre. Rather than rushing straight to the next sight, leave time for a coffee and a little browsing in the independent shops. For lunch, Ristorante Sociale is a convenient old-town choice for a more polished regional meal; allow around €35–€60 per person and book ahead if you want a table at a particular time.

Afternoon and Evening

Walk to the Como-Brunate Funicular, roughly 15 minutes from the cathedral. Allow around two hours in total for buying tickets, waiting, the short ride and exploring at the top; summer queues can be significant, so going earlier in the afternoon is preferable. At Brunate, use the signed paths near the station for open views across the water and towards the Alps. The terrain is hilly, so comfortable shoes are worthwhile. Return to Como when you are ready rather than treating the funicular as a timed attraction.

Spend the late afternoon along the Lungolago di Como, extending the walk towards Villa Olmo if the weather is good. This gives you a proper first taste of the lake without overloading the day, and leaves room to stop for an aperitivo or sit by the water. Dinner in the old centre is generally around €20–€40 per person for a casual meal, or more for a longer restaurant dinner. Keep the evening relaxed: tomorrow’s move towards Varenna is more enjoyable if you are not trying to fit in another major excursion tonight.

Day 4 · Tue, Jun 15
Varenna, Italy

Lake Como villages and lakeside scenery

Getting there from Como, Italy
Train via Trenord from Como Lago or Como San Giovanni, usually via Lecco, to Varenna-Esino (about 1h30–2h, €7–€10). Depart around 7:30–8:30; check the exact connection because some require changing at Lecco.
  1. Villa Monastero (Varenna) — lakeside gardens and historic interiors make this the day’s main cultural visit — late morning, ~1.5 hours.
  2. Varenna waterfront (Varenna) — a relaxed walk along the lake and the Passeggiata degli Innamorati offers excellent views without rushing — midday, ~1 hour.
  3. Al Prato Restaurant (Varenna) — attractive square-side lunch in the village centre — lunch, ~1.25 hours; approximately €25–€45 per person.
  4. Varenna historic lanes (Varenna) — wander the steep alleys, small shops and waterfront viewpoints at an easy pace — afternoon, ~2 hours.
  5. Varenna lakeside promenade (Varenna) — an unhurried golden-hour stroll and optional lakeside aperitivo leave more time to enjoy the setting — late afternoon, ~1.5 hours.

Late Morning

Once you have arrived and settled your bags, make Villa Monastero your main visit. Its long lakeside garden is the highlight, with palms, roses, sculptures and broad views across the water towards Bellagio. Allow about 1½ hours, and check the seasonal timetable before leaving Como, as access to the garden and historic house can vary. Entry is commonly around €10–€15, subject to the current tariff.

Lunch and Waterfront

Walk back into Varenna via the waterfront and take the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, the short lakeside path with its distinctive red railings. Allow roughly an hour including photo stops, then continue to Al Prato Restaurant for lunch on the small square. Expect approximately €25–€45 per person; booking ahead is sensible in June, particularly if you want an outdoor table.

Afternoon

Keep the afternoon deliberately unhurried rather than taking the ferry onward today. Explore Varenna’s narrow lanes, small shops and viewpoints around the harbour, then follow the promenade towards the quieter edges of the village. The station is uphill from the centre, so leave plenty of time for the climb if you need to collect luggage or make an evening train connection.

This arrangement gives you a fuller day in Varenna while preserving tomorrow for Bellagio, when you can cross the lake without having to squeeze its historic centre into today’s schedule. Carry water and wear shoes with good grip: the cobbles and steep lanes become tiring in the afternoon. A coffee or aperitivo by the water is an easy way to finish; allow roughly €5–€12 per person depending on the drink and snacks.

Day 5 · Wed, Jun 16
Bellagio, Italy

Lake Como relaxation and exploration

Getting there from Varenna, Italy
Lake Como passenger ferry with Navigazione Laghi (about 15–20 minutes, approximately €5–10). Depart in the morning or late morning; services are seasonal and frequent in June. Check the Varenna–Bellagio timetable and buy tickets at the dock or via Navigazione Laghi. Allow extra time for queues with luggage.
  1. Bellagio lakeside promenade (waterfront) — Enjoy the village’s lanes, harbour views and relaxed morning atmosphere after arriving from Varenna — late morning, ~1.5 hours.
  2. Basilica of San Giacomo (historic centre) — See Bellagio’s Romanesque church and its compact old-town surroundings — midday, ~30 minutes.
  3. Villa Melzi Gardens (Lungo Lario Manzoni) — Wander the elegant lakeside gardens, sculptures and shaded paths — afternoon, ~1.5–2 hours.
  4. Punta Spartivento (northern tip of Bellagio) — Take in the broadest views across the lake’s three branches and find a peaceful place to sit — late afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  5. Bellagio waterfront (harbour) — Have an unhurried lakeside dinner or aperitivo before returning to your accommodation — evening, ~1.5–2 hours.

Late morning: arrival and settling in

Allow the earlier part of the day for the separate arrival from Varenna, checking in and leaving your luggage. Once settled, start around the Bellagio lakeside promenade, where the waterfront and steep lanes into the centre give you an easy introduction without committing to another major journey. Ferries connect Bellagio with Varenna and other lakeside villages, but check the seasonal timetable locally because services and frequency vary.

Midday and afternoon: gardens and viewpoints

Walk uphill through the old centre to the Basilica of San Giacomo, then continue south along the lake towards Villa Melzi Gardens. The gardens are best treated as a slow stroll rather than a quick attraction; allow extra time for the lakeside paths and shaded areas. Entry is usually in the low-to-mid teens per adult, but confirm the current seasonal price before visiting.

Return towards the centre at an easy pace, stopping for lunch in a café or trattoria; allow roughly €15–€25 per person for a light meal, or €30–€50 for a fuller meal with wine. Later, walk to Punta Spartivento for the clearest open views across the lake. This is a good day to leave unplanned time for the narrow lanes, small shops and waterfront benches rather than adding another boat excursion.

Evening

Finish back at the Bellagio waterfront with an aperitivo and dinner. Expect approximately €8–€15 for a drink with a small snack, and around €30–€55 per person for dinner depending on the restaurant and wine. Wear comfortable shoes: Bellagio is compact but notably steep, and the cobbled lanes can be tiring after the garden walk.

Day 6 · Thu, Jun 17
Sirmione, Italy

Extended Lake Garda stay

Getting there from Bellagio, Italy
Private transfer or rental car via Como–Bergamo–Brescia/A4 (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes–3 hours, about €180–300 for a private transfer or roughly €70–120 per day plus fuel/tolls for a rental car). Depart around 8:00–9:00 to avoid traffic and arrive before midday. Bellagio has limited rental-car availability, so reserve in advance through Rentalcars.com, Auto Europe, or a local transfer company. This is substantially more practical than public transport with luggage.
Public transport: ferry Bellagio–Varenna, Trenord train from Varenna-Esino to Milan, then a Trenitalia train to Desenzano del Garda and a local bus or taxi to Sirmione (approximately 5–6 hours, about €35–55). Book/check ferry times with Navigazione Laghi and trains on Trenord/Trenitalia. Leave early, preferably by 7:30–8:00, because connections can be infrequent.
  1. Sirmione old town (peninsula entrance) — settle in and explore the narrow lakeside streets at an unhurried pace, late morning, ~1.5 hours.
  2. Grotte di Catullo (peninsula tip) — Roman villa ruins with broad views across Lake Garda, late morning, ~1.5 hours; allow for the walk and possible ticket queue.
  3. Jamaica Beach (peninsula tip) — rocky swimming and sunbathing spot with exceptionally clear water, early afternoon, ~1 hour.
  4. Ristorante La Speranzina (lakeside) — special lunch overlooking the lake, early afternoon, ~1.5 hours; approximately €45–€80 per person and advance booking recommended.
  5. Scaliger Castle (old town entrance) — medieval fortress with atmospheric walkways and elevated lake views, mid-afternoon, ~1 hour; check timed-entry arrangements.
  6. Sirmione lakeside promenade (peninsula) — gentle final walk and time for a drink or gelato before tomorrow’s onward journey, late afternoon, ~1 hour.

Late Morning

Arrive in Sirmione from Bellagio with enough time to leave your bags and have a relaxed start rather than trying to force in another long transfer. Begin in the old town, wandering along the peninsula’s main lanes and waterfront. June can be busy, so the quieter side streets and lakeside paths are more enjoyable than rushing between headline sights.

Walk towards the tip of the peninsula to the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a substantial Roman villa set among olive trees and cypresses. Allow around 1½ hours, including the walk from the centre. The ruins are exposed, so bring water, a hat and sun protection; entry is generally in the €8–€15 range, but check the official arrangements and opening details closer to the date.

Afternoon by the Lake

Continue to Jamaica Beach, a rocky swimming area rather than a conventional sandy beach. Wear secure sandals for the uneven stones and bring swimwear and a small towel. The water and mountain views are excellent, but facilities are limited, so it is sensible to carry water with you.

Walk back towards the centre for lunch at Ristorante La Speranzina, booking ahead if you want a lakeside table. Allow about 1½ hours and budget approximately €45–€80 per person before additional wine or extra courses. After lunch, visit Scaliger Castle, positioned at the entrance to the old town. Its walls, towers and harbour setting make it one of the most distinctive sights on Lake Garda; allow time for queues and check whether your date requires a timed ticket.

Unhurried Evening

Keep the rest of the afternoon deliberately open for a final promenade, a swim if the weather is good, or a drink beside the water. This gives you more genuine time in Sirmione instead of adding another rushed excursion, and leaves room to collect luggage and prepare for tomorrow’s journey to Riva del Garda.

For local travel, the peninsula is best explored on foot; taxis are useful only for luggage or the approach to your accommodation. Allow roughly €15–€25 for a simple drink or snack stop, and expect dinner in the old town to range from about €25–€45 per person at a casual restaurant, more for a waterside meal. The next day’s transfer is long enough that an early night is worthwhile.

Day 7 · Fri, Jun 18
Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda exploration before Bolzano

Getting there from Sirmione, Italy
Local bus or taxi/private transfer along the Lake Garda shore. Since Sirmione is already on Lake Garda, the exact duration depends on the destination town: approximately 30–90 minutes by bus (€3–€15) or 25–60 minutes by taxi (€50–€120). Check Arriva Italia or the local Garda bus timetables; book a taxi locally or through your accommodation. Depart in the morning if changing to a different lakeside base.
Lake ferry via Navigazione Laghi, where a suitable route exists: approximately 30–120 minutes and €5–€20, depending on the destination. Check schedules and buy tickets through navigazionelaghi.it or at the pier. Ferries are scenic but less practical with luggage and may require a connection.
  1. Malcesine (historic lakeside centre) — Wander the harbour, narrow lanes and waterfront before the main afternoon crowds — late morning, ~2 hours.
  2. Castello Scaligero di Malcesine (old town) — See one of the lake’s most atmospheric castles and its shoreline views, subject to seasonal opening — late morning, ~1–1.5 hours.
  3. Monte Baldo cable car (Malcesine hillside) — Take the cable car for broad mountain-and-lake panoramas if operating conditions and queues allow — early afternoon, ~2.5–3 hours including transfers and waiting.
  4. Torbole sul Garda (northern shore) — Finish with a relaxed lakeside walk and an early dinner in this lively windsurfing town — late afternoon and evening, ~2–3 hours.

Late morning: Malcesine

Leave a generous part of the morning for your arrival from Sirmione, check-in and luggage drop. Once settled, explore Malcesine on foot, beginning around the harbour and continuing through the steep lanes of the old town. This is a good day to keep the pace unhurried rather than trying to cover several distant lakeside villages.

Visit Castello Scaligero di Malcesine if it is open; allow time for steps and viewpoints, and check the current opening arrangements locally rather than relying on a guaranteed entry. A light lunch in the old town or by the waterfront should cost roughly €15–25 per person, excluding drinks.

Afternoon: Monte Baldo

If the weather is clear, use the Monte Baldo cable car for the day’s main panorama. Allow approximately 2.5–3 hours overall for walking to the station, queueing, the ascent and a short mountain walk. Cable-car fares are commonly in the €25–35 range for a return, but confirm the current price and operating status before committing; wind or maintenance can affect service.

If the cable car is busy, closed or clouded in, stay around Malcesine instead and take a slower waterfront break. There is no need to force the mountain visit, particularly with the wedding tomorrow.

Late afternoon and evening: Torbole

Continue to Torbole sul Garda for a final lakeside stroll, enjoying the promenade and views towards the northern mountains. Keep dinner early and practical—allow around €20–35 per person for a casual meal—so you can return to your accommodation, prepare wedding clothes and confirm tomorrow’s transport to Bolzano.

For tomorrow, check the first suitable bus or train combination locally and leave extra margin for connections. Staying in the northern part of the lake keeps the onward journey more manageable; avoid adding another sightseeing stop tonight.

Day 8 · Sat, Jun 19
Bolzano, Italy

Wedding day in Bolzano

Getting there from Lake Garda, Italy
Bus or taxi to Peschiera del Garda or Verona Porta Nuova, then a regional train toward Bolzano via Rovereto and Trento. Allow approximately 3–4 hours from southern Lake Garda, including the local connection; total cost is about €20–€35. Book train tickets through Trenitalia.com or the Trenitalia app, and check local Garda buses through Arriva Italia. Depart around 8:00–9:00 to reach Bolzano by early afternoon.
Rental car via the A22 Autostrada del Brennero: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Peschiera, 1 hour 30 minutes from the northern lake, or up to 2 hours 30 minutes from other lake towns, plus tolls of roughly €15–€25 and fuel. This is the most convenient option if staying in a remote lakeside village or carrying substantial luggage. Book through Rentalcars.com or directly with a major rental company.
  1. Wedding celebrations (Bolzano) — Keep the day entirely free for preparations, the ceremony and the reception — all day, with no sightseeing scheduled.

Morning preparations

Keep today entirely for the wedding in Bolzano, leaving an unhurried morning for breakfast, dressing and any final arrangements. If you need essentials, the pedestrian centre around Via dei Portici has cafés, pharmacies and small shops; allow time for queues and avoid relying on a quick stop immediately before the ceremony.

Ceremony and celebrations

Reserve the rest of the day for the ceremony, photographs, reception and recovery afterwards. Do not add a restaurant booking or sightseeing commitment, as the wedding may involve travel between venues and celebrations can run late. If you need a taxi, arrange it through your accommodation or wedding organisers in advance, particularly for a venue outside the centre.

Keep tomorrow’s transfer towards Cortina d’Ampezzo flexible: confirm the bus or car plan, luggage arrangements and departure point tonight. After a long wedding day, a simple breakfast and an early start may be all that is realistic; budget roughly €10–€20 for a casual meal if the wedding arrangements do not cover breakfast or late food.

Day 9 · Sun, Jun 20
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

Dolomites gateway

Getting there from Bolzano, Italy
Direct Südtirol Mobil/FlixBus combination via Dobbiaco, or regional buses via Canazei and Arabba (roughly 4–5h, €20–€35). Depart around 7:00–8:00. A rental car via the Great Dolomites Road is more flexible, about 3–3h30 plus stops, typically €70–€130 per day before fuel.
  1. Bolzano → Cortina d’Ampezzo — journey; bus or hired car via the Great Dolomites Road, allowing roughly 3–4 hours including stops and luggage, morning.
  2. Passo Falzarego — Dolomites; dramatic mountain pass and excellent arrival viewpoint, ~45 minutes.
  3. Lagazuoi cable car — Falzarego Pass; high-altitude panoramas and WWI history, ~2 hours; cable-car operation and weather are seasonal.
  4. Cortina d’Ampezzo centre — Cortina; browse the elegant pedestrian streets, ~1 hour.
  5. El Toula — Cortina; atmospheric local dinner with mountain cuisine, approximately €35–€60 per person, ~1.5 hours.

Morning: Bolzano to the Dolomites

Travel from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo early, ideally leaving around 7:00–8:00. By public transport, allow roughly 4–5 hours with connections and waiting time; a hired car is much more practical today, taking around 3–3½ hours via the Great Dolomites Road, plus stops. If driving, expect mountain roads, limited parking and possible summer traffic—check the rental policy for alpine roads and keep some cash for small parking areas. With luggage, arrange accommodation in Cortina d’Ampezzo to accept bags before heading out, or use a left-luggage facility if available.

Make Passo Falzarego your first proper stop. The pass is a superb introduction to the Dolomites, with broad views of pale limestone peaks and plenty of space for a short walk and photographs; allow about 45 minutes. Continue to the Lagazuoi cable car, where the ride climbs dramatically from the pass to high-altitude viewpoints. Allow around two hours for the cable car, panoramas and a little exploration around the summit station. Cable-car operation is seasonal and weather-dependent, and queues can build in good weather, so check the official timetable before leaving Bolzano and take a jacket, sunscreen and sturdy shoes. The altitude is significant even in June, and cloud can arrive quickly.

Afternoon: Cortina centre

After returning from Passo Falzarego, continue into Cortina d’Ampezzo and spend an unhurried hour around Corso Italia, the town’s elegant pedestrian centre. Browse the alpine shops and cafés, then wander onto the quieter side streets around Largo delle Poste rather than trying to pack in another major attraction. A coffee or light snack at Pasticceria Ghedina is a good fit after the mountain drive. If you are using buses rather than a car, keep the timetable visible: services are less frequent than in the cities, and the final connection into Cortina can make the day feel long.

Evening: Mountain dinner

Book El Toula in advance for dinner, particularly on a Sunday in June. It has the cosy, wood-panelled atmosphere you want after a day in the mountains, with regional dishes such as canederli, speck and hearty alpine mains; budget approximately €35–€60 per person before drinks. It is not always a convenient walk from every part of Cortina, so confirm the restaurant’s current location and arrange a taxi if needed. Keep the evening relaxed—tomorrow is better used for scenery than another late night.

Day 10 · Mon, Jun 21
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

Dolomites scenery

  1. Lago di Braies — Braies Valley; spectacular turquoise lake and easy shoreline walk, ~2.5 hours; arrive early and check seasonal vehicle-access rules.
  2. Pragser Wildsee boat hire — Lago di Braies; memorable lake experience in good weather, ~45 minutes.
  3. San Candido — Puster Valley; attractive historic town for a relaxed lunch, ~1.5 hours.
  4. Pasticceria Kofler — San Candido; café stop for South Tyrolean pastries, approximately €8–€15 per person, ~45 minutes.
  5. Cortina Olympic Ice Stadium — Cortina; see a distinctive 1956 Winter Olympics venue, ~45 minutes.
  6. Cooperativa di Cortina — Cortina centre; browse local food and craft products, ~45 minutes.

Morning: Lago di Braies

Leave Cortina d’Ampezzo early, ideally around 06:30–07:00, for Lago di Braies in the Braies Valley. Driving takes roughly 1¼–1¾ hours, depending on traffic and the route through Dobbiaco; public transport is considerably slower and involves connections, so a car, private transfer or organised excursion is the practical choice today. In June, access to the lake road can be controlled during busy daytime periods, with parking reservations or shuttle arrangements sometimes required, so check the official Pragser Wildsee information shortly before travelling. Arrive early for quieter paths, easier parking and the best light on the turquoise water. Allow about 2½ hours for the easy shoreline walk, remembering that some sections may be uneven.

Hire a traditional wooden boat at Pragser Wildsee for around 45 minutes if weather and availability allow. Boat hire is commonly in the region of €25–€40 for a small boat, but seasonal prices and opening times can change; queues build quickly on fine summer days. If conditions are poor, the shoreline remains worthwhile, so do not make the boat the only reason for the visit.

Lunch in San Candido

Continue to San Candido—called Innichen locally—in the Puster Valley, allowing roughly 35–45 minutes by car. Spend around 1½ hours wandering the compact historic centre and having a relaxed lunch; choose a terrace around Piazza San Michele or Via Peter Paul Rainer for South Tyrolean dishes such as dumplings, speck and apple strudel. The town is easy to explore on foot, and parking is generally more convenient on the edge of the centre than in the pedestrian streets.

Follow lunch with coffee and pastries at Pasticceria Kofler, allowing about 45 minutes and approximately €8–€15 per person. Try a slice of fruit tart, krapfen or another South Tyrolean pastry rather than rushing straight back to the car. Check the bakery’s opening hours on the day, as smaller businesses can vary their afternoon service.

Afternoon and Evening in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Drive back towards Cortina d’Ampezzo, allowing about 1¼ hours, and visit the Cortina Olympic Ice Stadium, the distinctive 1956 Winter Olympics venue. Allow roughly 45 minutes; access may be limited by events or sporting activity, so treat this as a visit to the exterior and surrounding area unless an internal opening is confirmed. From there, walk into the centre for about 10–15 minutes and browse the Cooperativa di Cortina for local cheeses, cured meats, honey and mountain-made crafts. Allow around 45 minutes, and remember that many shops close for a short early-afternoon break before reopening later. Keep the evening unplanned after this: Cortina’s Corso Italia and quieter side streets are best enjoyed with an aperitivo and an early dinner rather than another scheduled attraction.

Day 11 · Tue, Jun 22
Treviso, Italy

Treviso and Veneto

Getting there from Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina Express bus to Treviso (about 2h45–3h30, €15–€25), book via Cortina Express. Take a morning departure around 8:00–9:00 to allow a full afternoon in Treviso. Services are seasonal, so verify the 2027 timetable.
  1. Cina → Treviso — journey; bus or car via Belluno, allowing roughly 2.5–3.5 hours, morning.
  2. Piazza dei Signori — Treviso centre; elegant civic square and a good orientation point, ~45 minutes.
  3. Treviso canals and Buranelli — historic centre; peaceful waterways and medieval lanes, ~1 hour.
  4. Musei Civici di Treviso – Santa Caterina — historic centre; regional art and archaeology collection, ~1.5 hours.
  5. Osteria dalla Gigia — Treviso centre; classic cicchetti and local specialities, approximately €15–€30 per person, ~1 hour.
  6. Walls of Treviso — around the centre; leafy walk along the Renaissance fortifications, ~1.25 hours.

Morning: Cortina d’Ampezzo to Treviso

Take a morning Cortina Express service from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Treviso, allowing roughly 3–4 hours door to door once you include getting to the stop, waiting and reaching your accommodation or the centre on arrival. Check the 2027 seasonal timetable before booking, as services can be limited; reserve a seat if available, particularly in June. With a morning departure, you should reach Treviso around lunchtime, leaving luggage at your accommodation or a staffed left-luggage facility before exploring.

Afternoon: Historic Centre

Begin at Piazza dei Signori, Treviso’s elegant civic heart, where the Palazzo dei Trecento and surrounding arcades make an easy orientation point. From here, walk through the medieval lanes towards the Buranelli district and Treviso’s canals. The waterways are particularly atmospheric around the narrow Canale dei Buranelli, with old houses, small bridges and quieter corners away from the busier squares; allow about an hour to wander without rushing.

Continue to Musei Civici di Treviso – Santa Caterina, housed in a former convent a short walk from the canals. Its collection includes regional paintings, archaeological displays and restored medieval remains. Allow around 1½ hours, but check the museum’s 2027 opening hours before setting out, as Italian museums may close on a weekly rest day or have seasonal hours. Admission is generally modest, commonly around €6–€10.

Evening: Cicchetti and the City Walls

For an early dinner, head to Osteria dalla Gigia, a compact, much-loved spot for Venetian-style cicchetti, small plates and local specialities. Expect roughly €15–€30 per person depending on how generously you order; it is informal, and arriving slightly before the main dinner period gives you the best chance of finding space. Try a selection rather than ordering one large dish, and allow about an hour.

Finish with a gentle walk along the Walls of Treviso, following the leafy Renaissance fortifications around the edge of the centre. The complete circuit takes around 1¼ hours, though you can shorten it by returning through the gates towards the centre. Go before it gets dark for the best views over the surrounding rooftops, then walk back to your accommodation through Treviso’s quiet evening streets.

Day 12 · Wed, Jun 23
Venice, Italy

Venice arrival and evening exploration

Getting there from Treviso, Italy
Trenitalia regional train from Treviso Centrale to Venezia Santa Lucia (about 35–45 minutes, €4–€6). Depart around 8:00–9:00 for the Rialto Market; allow 15–30 minutes to reach Treviso station and onward accommodation from Santa Lucia.
  1. Venice accommodation near Santa Lucia (Cannaregio) — drop luggage, check in and reset after the morning arrival, late morning to early afternoon, ~1 hour.
  2. Campo Santa Margherita (Dorsoduro) — lively local square suited to an easy lunch and first taste of Venice away from the busiest sights, early afternoon, ~1–1.5 hours.
  3. Zattere waterfront (Dorsoduro) — broad canal-side promenade with open views and room to wander, mid-afternoon, ~1 hour.
  4. Punta della Dogana (Dorsoduro) — striking waterfront viewpoint where the Grand Canal meets the lagoon, late afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  5. Dorsoduro bacari and trattorie (Dorsoduro) — relaxed cicchetti and dinner among quieter Venetian lanes, evening, ~2 hours.

Late morning: arrival and settling in

After arriving at Venezia Santa Lucia, keep the first part of the day deliberately light. Walk or take a vaporetto to your accommodation, allow time to leave bags and check in, then have a coffee or quick lunch rather than trying to begin with a tightly timed sightseeing schedule. Venice is much more enjoyable once you have stopped looking at the map every few minutes; allow extra time for bridges, crowds and getting briefly turned around.

Afternoon: Dorsoduro

Make your way to Campo Santa Margherita in Dorsoduro, an easy area for lunch and a gentle introduction to the city. From the station, the walk takes roughly 25–30 minutes, while a vaporetto may be quicker with luggage but less convenient once you are ready to explore on foot. A simple lunch of cicchetti, pasta or a sandwich should generally cost about €12–€25 per person, with a sit-down meal more likely to be €25–€40.

After lunch, wander south towards the Zattere waterfront, taking the smaller lanes rather than following the most direct route. Continue along the water to Punta della Dogana for wide lagoon views and a good place to pause as the afternoon light changes. This leaves plenty of room to browse small shops, stop for gelato and enjoy the city without duplicating the more concentrated landmark visits planned for the following Venice day.

Evening: a quieter Venetian dinner

Stay in Dorsoduro for the evening and look for a traditional bacaro or modest trattoria away from the waterfront’s most prominent terraces. Cicchetti and a drink usually cost around €3–€6 per small plate, while dinner with wine is commonly about €30–€50 per person. Vaporetto tickets are useful if you expect to cross the Grand Canal several times; otherwise, walking is often faster for short hops and gives you more of Venice’s atmospheric side streets. Keep the evening unhurried, since tomorrow can carry the main sightseeing programme.

Day 13 · Thu, Jun 24
Venice, Italy

Full day in Venice

  1. Doge’s Palace (San Marco) — lavish Gothic palace and former seat of Venetian power, morning, ~2 hours.
  2. St Mark’s Basilica (San Marco) — richly decorated Byzantine-style basilica, late morning, ~1 hour.
  3. Rialto Bridge (San Polo–San Marco) — iconic Grand Canal crossing with lively views, early afternoon, ~30 minutes.
  4. Cannaregio (Cannaregio) — atmospheric northern district with quieter canals and traditional bacari, afternoon, ~2 hours.
  5. Fondamenta della Misericordia (Cannaregio) — relaxed canal-side route for cicchetti and an aperitivo, evening, ~1.5 hours.

Morning: the heart of Venice

Start early in San Marco, before the busiest day-trippers arrive. Visit Doge’s Palace, allowing around two hours for the grand council chambers, institutional rooms and the Bridge of Sighs route. Timed admission is strongly recommended in June; book an official entry slot in advance and allow time for security and queues. From there, visit St Mark’s Basilica, usually around an hour. Entry arrangements and access to particular areas can vary, so check the official booking requirements rather than relying on walk-up admission. Dress respectfully, with shoulders and knees covered.

Take a slow route away from San Marco towards the Rialto Bridge, allowing 25–35 minutes for the walk through the narrow lanes and small squares. Stop for lunch in the Rialto or Cannaregio area rather than eating immediately beside the basilica, where prices are generally higher; a light Venetian lunch of cicchetti, pasta or a main dish will typically cost about €20–€40 per person, excluding drinks. Keep some flexibility here—the best parts of Venice are often the unplanned courtyards, quiet bridges and small artisan shops between the major sights.

Afternoon: quieter canals

Continue north into Cannaregio, one of the more enjoyable districts for escaping the central crowds. Wander along the quieter canals and residential lanes towards the Jewish Ghetto, allowing roughly two hours at an easy pace. The district is well suited to a relaxed coffee stop or an early aperitivo, and it gives you a different feel from the monumental centre. If you prefer to shorten the walking, use a vaporetto for part of the return journey; single tickets are relatively expensive, so compare the cost with a 24-hour travel pass if you expect further boat trips.

Evening: a final Venetian meal

Finish along Fondamenta della Misericordia, where canal-side bars and small restaurants make a good setting for your final evening in Venice. Allow around 1½ hours for cicchetti and an aperitivo, budgeting approximately €15–€30 per person for a casual spread or €30–€50 for a more substantial dinner. Return to your accommodation on foot where possible, or use the vaporetto while services are convenient. Since you leave for Lake Como tomorrow, keep the evening unhurried and confirm your route to Venezia Santa Lucia before turning in; allow at least 20–30 minutes to walk there with luggage, longer if you need a vaporetto or have accommodation across the water.

Day 14 · Fri, Jun 25
Lake Como, Italy

Additional Lake Como time

Getting there from Venice, Italy
High-speed Frecciarossa or Italo train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Milano Centrale, followed by a Trenord regional train to Como San Giovanni. The journey takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes–4 hours, with fares around €45–€100 when booked in advance. Book the high-speed segment through Trenitalia.com or italotreno.com and the Milan–Como segment through Trenord.it. Take a morning train, ideally around 7:00–8:00, to arrive around lunchtime.
For destinations such as Bellagio, Varenna, or Menaggio, continue from Milan to Como or Lecco and use a local train plus ferry. Allow approximately 4–5 hours total and €55–€115. Check ferry schedules at navigazionelaghi.it; avoid a late arrival because the final ferries across the lake may finish in the evening.
  1. Menaggio (western Lake Como) — Stroll the relaxed lakeside promenade and historic centre after arriving from Venice — late morning/early afternoon, ~2 hours.
  2. Villa Carlotta (Tremezzina) — Visit the villa’s art collection and botanical gardens, with excellent views across the lake — afternoon, ~2–2.5 hours; allow extra time if queues are present.
  3. Lenno (Tremezzina) — Wander part of the lakeside Greenway and pause for a drink or early dinner beside the water — late afternoon/early evening, ~1.5–2 hours.
  4. Cadenabbia (Griante) — Take in the sunset-facing shoreline before returning to your accommodation — evening, ~45 minutes.

Arrival and Menaggio

Leave the morning flexible for your journey from Venice and the transfer to your Lake Como accommodation; door to door, this is likely to take most of the morning once station access, the train journey, connections and check-in are included. Once settled, head to Menaggio by bus, boat or car and keep the first part of the day unhurried. Its compact centre, small harbour and lakeside promenade are well suited to a relaxed lunch, typically about €15–25 per person.

Tremezzina gardens

Continue along the western shore to Villa Carlotta, ideally by boat where the service suits your location, or by bus or car. The gardens are the main attraction in June, with shaded paths, flowering plants and broad views over the lake; allow around two hours rather than trying to rush it. Admission is commonly in the mid-teens per adult, but check the official listing before travelling because seasonal prices and entry arrangements can change.

Lenno and the lakeside evening

From Villa Carlotta, continue to Lenno and walk a section of the Greenway, choosing only a manageable stretch after your travel day. Finish around Cadenabbia, where the western shore catches the evening light, then have dinner in the Tremezzina area or return to your accommodation. Allow roughly €25–45 per person for a casual dinner, more for a lakeside restaurant.

Use boats for the most scenic connections, but check the day’s timetable before committing: services can be less frequent in the evening, and the final return can involve a bus or taxi. Keep your overnight base and onward arrangements coordinated with tomorrow’s return to Venice; do not plan a late evening on the lake, as the Venice transfer and airport logistics will make the following day easier if you are already positioned for an early departure.

Day 15 · Sat, Jun 26
Venice, Italy

Departure from Venice

Getting there from Lake Como, Italy
Train to Milano Centrale, then a Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed train to Venezia Santa Lucia. From Como San Giovanni, allow approximately 3 hours 30 minutes–4 hours; from Varenna, Bellagio, or Menaggio, allow roughly 4–5 hours including the ferry or local connection. Expect about €45–€110, depending on the origin and how early you book. Book through Trenitalia.com, italotreno.com, and navigazionelaghi.it if a ferry connection is required. Depart by 7:00–8:00 to reach Venice by early afternoon.
Rental car via Milan and the A4 Autostrada: approximately 3 hours 30 minutes from Como, excluding traffic, tolls, and the one-way rental charge. This is generally less practical than the train because of Milan traffic, tolls, and parking restrictions in Venice. Book through Rentalcars.com if you need to travel by car.
  1. Burano (northern lagoon) — colourful island houses and a relaxed final excursion, ~3 hours including vaporetto travel.
  2. Trattoria al Gatto Nero (Burano) — celebrated seafood lunch, approximately €40–€70 per person; reserve ahead, ~1.5 hours.
  3. Torcello Cathedral (Torcello) — atmospheric early Venetian island and historic church, ~1.5 hours; check Saturday opening arrangements.
  4. Venice → Venice Marco Polo Airport → North of England airport (Venice and airport) — departure journey; allow at least 3–4 hours from central Venice to airport departure, including transfer, check-in and security.

Morning: Burano

Check out early and leave your luggage with your accommodation or at a left-luggage facility near Venezia Santa Lucia. Make your way to Fondamente Nove and take the vaporetto towards Burano; allow roughly 45–60 minutes, depending on the service and waiting time. This is a better final morning than trying to squeeze in another major Venetian sight: the boat ride opens out across the northern lagoon, and Burano is at its most enjoyable before the larger Saturday day-trip crowds arrive.

Allow about three hours on the island, including the journey. Wander beyond the main landing pier through the quieter residential lanes, where the vividly painted houses are more charming than the busiest postcard viewpoints. The island is compact and mostly flat, but the cobbles can be uneven. Check the Saturday vaporetto timetable before settling in, as services can be busy and waiting for a connection may add time.

Lunch and Torcello

Have lunch at Trattoria al Gatto Nero, one of Burano’s best-known seafood restaurants. Expect around €40–€70 per person depending on wine and the day’s fish dishes; reserve ahead, particularly for a June Saturday, and confirm the restaurant’s luggage policy if you have not left your bags in Venice. Allow about 1½ hours, but do not let lunch run too late: you still need the boat to Torcello and then the airport transfer.

After lunch, take the local vaporetto from Burano to Torcello, usually a short ride of roughly 5–10 minutes, though waiting for the next departure can add considerably more. Spend about 1½ hours around Torcello Cathedral and the surrounding archaeological landscape. Check its Saturday opening arrangements before travelling, as religious sites may have restricted hours, services or occasional closures; modest clothing is sensible. If the cathedral is closed or the connection is inconvenient, keep the visit to the island’s peaceful paths and historic surroundings instead.

Afternoon and Departure

Return by vaporetto to Burano, then continue towards Fondamente Nove and central Venice, allowing at least 1½–2 hours overall for the boats and connections. Collect your luggage and leave central Venice at least 3–4 hours before your flight departure. The most scenic route is the Alilaguna airport boat from a suitable central stop, but it is slower and services can be affected by lagoon conditions. If timing is tight or you have substantial luggage, use the Venezia Santa Lucia area to reach Venice Marco Polo Airport by airport bus, or pre-book a private water taxi for the quickest door-to-door transfer. Allow for airport check-in, security and possible Saturday queues before continuing to your North of England airport.

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