5-Day Itinerary for Lugano and Milan

  1. Day 1: Lugano Old Town
    Estimated travel time from Lugano train station: 10 minutes (1.4 km)

    Discover the picturesque alleys of Lugano's Old Town with its historic buildings and charming squares. Visit the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli and see the famous fresco of the Crucifixion by Bernardino Luini.

  2. Day 2: Lake Lugano Boat Tour
    Estimated travel time from Lugano Old Town: 20 minutes (2 km)

    Take a scenic boat tour of Lake Lugano to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, towns, and villas. Stop at the picturesque village of Gandria, known for its beautiful architecture and artisanal shops.

  3. Day 3: Villa Olmo and Como
    Estimated travel time from Lake Lugano boat dock: 40 minutes (20 km)

    Visit the beautiful neoclassical Villa Olmo in Como, surrounded by a magnificent park and overlooking Lake Como. Stroll around the quaint town of Como, visit its historic cathedral, and taste some local pizza and gelato.

  4. Day 4: The Last Supper and Duomo di Milano
    Estimated travel time from Como train station: 1 hour (40 km)

    See Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of the iconic Duomo di Milano and climb to its rooftop for breathtaking views of the city.

  5. Day 5: Fashion and Art in Milan
    Estimated travel time from Duomo di Milano: 15 minutes (3 km)

    Explore the chic fashion district around Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, where you'll find luxurious designer stores, trendy cafés, and stylish bars. Visit the art museums of Brera and Prada Foundation to admire masterpieces from different eras and styles.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Lugano Old Town (2 hours, free)
  • Lake Lugano Boat Tour (3 hours, CHF 15 for 1-day ticket)
  • Villa Olmo and Como (4 hours, CHF 10 for Villa Olmo entrance, €2.10 for Como train ticket each way)
  • The Last Supper and Duomo di Milano (3 hours, €25 for Duomo rooftop entrance + The Last Supper reservation fee)
  • Fashion and Art in Milan (5 hours, free for Brera, €15 for Prada Foundation entrance)
  • Total Estimated Costs: CHF 25 + €42.10

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Swissminiatur park in Melide, which showcases scale models of Switzerland's landmarks, or taking a day trip to Bellagio or Varenna on Lake Como. If you have less time, skip Villa Olmo or the fashion district and explore the Navigli neighborhood, known for its canals and nightlife.

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