Major lakes and cities in northern Italy
Europe
We planned this journey around the idea of staying longer in fewer places. At this stage of life, we have found that a trip feels far more enjoyable when there is no need to unpack and repack every morning.
Milan was a practical and lively beginning, but Como soon slowed the pace. We spent unhurried mornings by the lake, took the ferry when it suited us, and left room for the sort of afternoon that has no plan at all.
Lugano felt like a small change of scene without making the journey complicated. From there, Stresa gave us another lakeside pause before we continued to Verona and Bologna.
We would suggest choosing accommodation within easy reach of the station, especially if you prefer not to manage heavy luggage across cobbled streets. This is not a route for seeing everything; it is for enjoying the places you do choose to see.
The journey, stop by stop.
Milan
Italy · 3 nights
We began with three nights in Milan to give ourselves time to settle in after travelling. the Duomo and the Galleria were worth seeing early in the morning, before the busiest part of the day. We also enjoyed walking through Brera and stopping for a long lunch rather than trying to fit in too many museums.Staying near Milano Centrale made the onward journey very straightforward.
Como
Italy · 3 nights
Como was where we slowed down properly. We spent one day exploring the town on foot and another taking the ferry along the lake, choosing stops according to the weather rather than a fixed plan. The promenade was especially pleasant in the early evening. We found that three nights gave us enough time to enjoy the lake without feeling rushed.
Lugano
Italy · 2 nights
We spent the first afternoon walking along the lakeside promenade and through Parco Ciani, then kept the following morning free for the old town and a leisurely coffee in Piazza della Riforma. The combination of Italian-speaking Switzerland, the lake and the surrounding hills made it feel distinct from Como and Stresa. We dtayed close enough to the station to avoid a difficult transfer with our luggage, which we appreciated after several days on the move.
Stresa
Italy · 2 nights
Stresa was a quieter lakeside stop and a comfortable place to rest between longer city visits. We took a boat to the Borromean Islands and kept the following afternoon free for a walk by the water. It is a good stop for travellers who prefer an easy rhythm, although it is worth checking boat schedules before planning the day.
Verona
Italy · 2 nights
Verona was compact enough to explore at a relaxed pace. We walked from Piazza Bra through the old centre, crossed the river towards Castel SanPietro and spent time in smaller streets away from the main sights. Two nights felt right:one full day to explore and another evening to enjoy the city after the day visitors had left.
Bologna
Italy · 1 night
Bologna was a lovely final stop, with its covered walkways making it easy to explore even if the weather changed. We visited the market area, climbed the Torre Prendiparte area for views, and spent more time than expected choosing where to eat. The centre is easy to walk around, and the station made it a convenient place to end the route.
A traveller’s reference, not a booking plan. Editorial review checks suitability and completeness; it does not verify current train services, fares or availability.