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7-Day Dream Itinerary: Discover Milan, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Como

Viewed by 275 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Milan

Milan, Italy on April 10, 2025

2:00PM

Pick Up Rental Car

Upon arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport, conveniently pick up your rental car to start your adventure.
EUR100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Drive to your hotel in Milan, check in, and unwind before your evening activities.
EUR150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Local Area

Take a short walk around the hotel area to get familiar with your surroundings and enjoy a gelato.
EUR5, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Milan

Day 2: Exploring Milan

Milan, Italy on April 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panino Giusto

Start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich made with fresh ingredients at this local favorite.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Piazza del Duomo

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Duomo di Milano, one of Italy's most iconic cathedrals.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Enjoy luxury shopping and beautiful architecture in this historic shopping gallery.
EUR0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit La Scala Opera House

Explore the famous opera house and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
EUR9, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Milanese

Savor traditional Milanese cuisine with Risotto alla Milanese in this cozy trattoria.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Walk to Parco Sempione

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this beautiful park adjacent to Sforzesco Castle.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sforzesco Castle and Arco della Pace

Visit the historic castle and the grand arch, both significant landmarks of Milan.
EUR5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria dei Vecchi Tempi

Delight in authentic Italian dinner options ranging from pasta to local specialties.
EUR40, 2 hours

8:00PM

Nightlife in the Navigli District

Experience Milan's vibrant nightlife with cozy bars and lively streets full of locals.
EUR20, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Milan

Day 3: Stresa on Lake Maggiore

Stresa, Italy on April 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel before your drive to Stresa.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Stresa

Set off for Stresa, enjoying the scenic views along the way. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Villa Pallavicino

Explore the beautiful zoo and botanical gardens, perfect for families and nature lovers.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Borromeo

Dine with a view, sampling fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the scenic lakeside setting.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take Cable Car to Monte Mottarone

Ride the cable car for breathtaking Alpine views; a perfect photo opportunity!
EUR15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Walk Along Stresa Promenade

Stroll the lakeside promenade filled with shops and cafés, enjoying the sunset views.
EUR0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria La Rosa dei Venti

Taste Italian dishes with a wide array of pizzas in a casual atmosphere.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Stresa

Day 4: Borromean Islands Boat Tour

Stresa, Italy on April 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your exciting boat tour.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Boat to Isola Bella

Take a boat from Piazza Marconi to Isola Bella, known for its stunning gardens and palace.
EUR30, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Isola Madre

Explore the lush botanicals and captivating villa on this tranquil island.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Isola dei Pescatori

Enjoy fresh seafood in one of the many charming eateries on this picturesque fishing island.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Stresa

Return by boat and relax as you take in the beautiful views on the way back.
EUR30, 1 hour

4:00PM

Free Time in Stresa

Spend your afternoon relaxing at the hotel or exploring Stresa at your leisure.
EUR0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Taverna del Pescatore

Indulge in delightful Italian cuisine and fresh fish, with a cozy ambiance.
EUR35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Stresa

Day 5: Orta San Giulio

Orta San Giulio, Italy on April 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Orta San Giulio.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Orta San Giulio

Head out for the short drive to the romantic village of Orta San Giulio.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Boat to San Giulio Island

Take a scenic boat ride to visit the serene Isola di San Giulio and its historic monastery.
EUR10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore San Giulio Island

Wander through the charming lanes and visit the monastery for a moment of reflection.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Villa Crespi

Savor a fine dining experience with exquisite gourmet dishes overlooking the lake.
EUR50, 2 hours

2:30PM

Explore Orta San Giulio

Enjoy the quaint streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés in this picturesque village.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax by Lake Orta

Spend time by the lake, ideal for a refreshing swim or simply enjoying the views.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel/Restaurant

Choose from local seafood or pasta dishes at your accommodation's restaurant or nearby.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Orta San Giulio

Day 6: Lake Como

Como, Italy on April 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving to Como.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Como

Travel to Como for a scenic ride, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Walk Lakeside Promenade

Stroll along the beautiful promenade and relish the breathtaking views of Lake Como.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Rosa

Indulge in local dishes including fresh fish and homemade pasta at this beloved spot.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Take Ferry to Bellagio

Catch the ferry from Como to Bellagio, enjoying the scenic lake views along the way.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Bellagio

Discover the quaint streets, boutique shops, and beautiful villas in Bellagio.
EUR0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Villa Melzi

Take a walk through the charming gardens of Villa Melzi, a must-see in Bellagio.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Bilacus

Enjoy dinner with stunning views right by the lake, serving various Italian delights.
EUR40, 2 hours

8:00PM

Return Ferry to Como

Take the ferry back to Como to unwind after a day of exploration.
EUR15, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Como

Day 7: Varenna & Lugano

Varenna, Italy on April 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your journey to Varenna.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Varenna

Make your way to Varenna, an ancient village full of charm.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Varenna

Visit beautiful spots such as San Giorgio Church and Villa Monastero for scenic views.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Vista

Enjoy Italian cuisine with a view of the lake from this lovely eatery.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Walk the Lovers’ Walk

Take a romantic stroll along the picturesque path overlooking the water.
EUR0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Castello di Vezio

Explore this medieval castle with stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding area.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive to Lugano, Switzerland

Enjoy the scenic drive to Lugano with beautiful views as you cross the Swiss border.
EUR10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stroll along Lake Lugano

Take a relaxing walk by Lake Lugano and visit the picturesque Parco Civico.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante La Cucina di Alice

Savor delicious Italian dishes with Swiss influences while overlooking the lake.
CHF40, 2 hours

8:30PM

Return to Como or Lugano

Head back for your overnight stay and relax after a fulfilling day.
EUR0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Varenna

Day 8: Return to Milan & Fly Home

Milan, Italy on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a final breakfast in Italy before hitting the road to return your rental.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Malpensa Airport

Allow ample time to reach the airport for your departure flight.
EUR20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Return Rental Car

Return your vehicle and check in for your flight home.
EUR0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Milan
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More About Day 1 – Arrival in Milan

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