Italian Lakes

Flying into Milan, we decided to stay close to the main station so that we could use the hop on hop off bus to explore the city. This gave us the perfect opportunity to visit all the main attractions along with time to relax.

After our two night stay in Milan we took the train to Como where we explored the city and waterfront promenade on foot along with taking the Como–Brunate funicular which offered great views across the lake from the top. The following morning we took the train back to Milan where we picked up our hire car for the journey ahead.

Next stop on our trip was Sirmione which is located at the base of Lake Garda. Our accommodation was set just outside of the old town however there is a shuttle bus in operation taking you to the castle which is the access point to the historical centre, and from here you can explore the old town on foot.

Our next journey was slightly longer although very picturesque as we drove along the shores of Lake Garda to Malcesine stopping along the way for a few pictures.

Malcesine is a captivating place with cobbled lanes full of shops and restaurants and a castle which is a wonderful setting for a wedding. As you turn to face inland, there is also a cable car with 360 degree views to take you up Monte Baldo. Remember to take warm clothes, although the temperature on the shores of Lake Garda may be warm, once you have travelled 1,760m up, there is definitely a chill in the air, but the views, walks and opportunity to watch the paragliders up close is spectacular.

Our final stop was Verona, and whilst it was a pity we could not see a performance at the amphitheatre, to walk around and see this venue along with the opportunity to see ‘Juliet’s Balcony’ was a fitting end to our trip.