Lombardy in northern Italy stole my heart with its stunning mix of elegant cities and breathtaking lakes. I’ve explored this region several times, and a road trip starting in Milan and winding through the lakeside towns offers the perfect blend of culture, scenery, and delicious food. The ideal Lombardy road trip combines Milan’s sophisticated city life with the serene beauty of Lake Como and the hidden charm of towns like Bergamo, creating a perfect 7-10 day Italian adventure.
Planning this journey is easier than you might think. When I last visited, I started in Milan exploring its famous cathedral and fashion districts before heading north to Lake Como. The lakeside towns of Varenna and Bellagio were magical stopping points with their colorful buildings and mountain backdrops.
The best part? You can do this trip by car for flexibility or use the reliable train system if you prefer not to drive.
My favorite aspect of traveling through Lombardy is how it showcases Italy beyond the usual tourist spots. You get to experience local life, incredible food, and breathtaking views without the overwhelming crowds of Rome or Venice. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Italy or returning for more exploration, this northern Italian itinerary delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Setting off from Milan: The Gateway to Lombardy
Milan serves as the perfect starting point for any Lombardy adventure, blending centuries of history with modern Italian flair. The city offers a taste of what makes this region special before you head toward the tranquil lakes.
Exploring Milan’s Rich History and Modern Vibrance
I always recommend spending at least a day exploring Milan before hitting the road. The magnificent Duomo, Milan’s Gothic cathedral, stands as the city’s crown jewel. Its intricate marble facade took nearly six centuries to complete!
For art lovers, Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” at Santa Maria delle Grazie is a must-see, but book tickets well in advance.
The historic Brera district charmed me with its narrow streets and artistic soul. Here you’ll find the Pinacoteca di Brera, housing some of Italy’s finest Renaissance masterpieces.
Fashion enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest active shopping mall with stunning architecture and high-end boutiques.
Leaving the Bustle: Milan to Como
The journey from Milan to Lake Como takes about an hour by car or train, making it an easy first leg of your Lombardy road trip. I prefer driving through the gradually changing landscape as city buildings give way to rolling hills.
Consider these stops along the route:
- Monza: Home to the famous Formula 1 racetrack and a beautiful royal villa
- Como City: The lake’s namesake town with its lovely waterfront promenade
The road hugs the countryside, revealing picture-perfect views as you approach the lake. Watch for signs to Villa Olmo, an impressive neoclassical villa that signals your arrival in Como.
The temperature drops slightly as you near the water, creating that refreshing lake breeze that makes Lombardy’s lakes so appealing.
Lake Como: A Symphony of Nature and Luxury
Lake Como captivates visitors with its perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes and refined elegance. The deep blue waters reflect towering mountains while historic villas and charming villages dot the shoreline, creating a destination that feels both grand and intimate.
Bellagio and Varenna: Jewels of the Lake
Bellagio sits majestically at the junction where Lake Como splits into two arms. I found its narrow cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés absolutely enchanting. The atmosphere here is sophisticated yet relaxed.
Villa Melzi Gardens deserve at least an hour of exploration with their botanical treasures and lakeside views. From Bellagio, I took a short ferry ride to Varenna, which quickly became my favorite lake town.
Varenna charms with its colorful waterfront houses and the romantic Lovers’ Walk (Passeggiata degli Innamorati) hugging the shoreline. The town feels more authentic and less crowded than its glamorous neighbor.
Don’t miss Villa Monastero with its stunning botanical garden stretching along the lake. For lunch, the lakeside restaurants serve fresh fish caught daily from the lake.
Tremezzo to Menaggio: A Route Defined by Villas and Gardens
Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo stands as the crown jewel of Lake Como’s grand estates. I spent hours exploring its 70,000 square meters of botanical gardens with rare plants, rhododendrons, and azaleas that burst with color in spring.
The villa’s interior dazzles with marble sculptures and artwork. From Tremezzo, continue by boat or car to Menaggio, a town with a lovely lakefront promenade perfect for afternoon strolls.
Menaggio offers more active pursuits than other lake towns. I rented a kayak to experience the lake from water level and hiked nearby trails for panoramic views.
Villa Mylius Vigoni just outside town provides another glimpse into aristocratic lakeside living with its impressive gardens and historic rooms. The ferry connections from Menaggio make it an excellent base for exploring other lake destinations.
The Diversity of Lombardy: From Bergamo to Lake Iseo
Moving beyond Milan, Lombardy reveals its true character through medieval towns and pristine lakes. The region’s diversity shines in the dramatic shift from urban landscapes to serene waters.
Bergamo: A Tale of Two Cities
Bergamo captivated me with its unique split personality. The city is divided into two distinct parts: Città Alta (Upper Town) and Città Bassa (Lower Town). I took the funicular railway up to Città Alta, where medieval walls embrace a charming historic center.
Walking through Piazza Vecchia, I felt transported back in time. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Contarini Fountain. Don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore with its incredible interior decorations.
The views from the Venetian Walls are breathtaking. On clear days, I could see all the way to the Alps. These massive fortifications, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer perfect spots for an evening stroll.
Tasting Local Delights and Discovering Hidden Gems
Bergamo’s food scene is a highlight of any Lombardy trip. I sampled casoncelli, pasta stuffed with meat, raisins, and amaretti cookies, topped with sage butter. The local polenta dishes and stracciatella cheese (the creamy heart of burrata) are also must-tries.
For a unique experience, I visited the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy’s finest art galleries that many tourists overlook. The collection includes works by Botticelli, Raphael, and Bellini.
From Bergamo, I made an easy day trip to Lake Iseo. Smaller and less crowded than Como, this hidden gem offers authentic experiences without the tourist crowds. Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island, makes for a wonderful afternoon exploration with its quaint fishing villages.
The lakeside town of Lovere, named one of “Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages,” features colorful buildings along the waterfront promenade. I enjoyed a relaxing lunch here while watching boats cross the crystal-clear waters.
Extending the Journey: Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands
Just a short drive north of Milan lies the stunning Lake Maggiore, a perfect extension to any Lombardy road trip. This magnificent lake offers charming towns, breathtaking mountain views, and the jewel-like Borromean Islands that seem to float on its azure waters.
Day Trips to Lake Maggiore’s Stresa and the Borromeo Islands
Stresa makes an ideal base for exploring Lake Maggiore. This elegant town captivated me with its Belle Époque hotels and lovely lakefront promenade. I spent a morning wandering through its narrow streets, stopping at cafés to enjoy the views across to the islands.
The Borromean Islands are absolutely unmissable. From Stresa’s harbor, frequent boats transport visitors to these three distinct islands. Isola Bella wowed me with its baroque palace and terraced gardens shaped like a tiered wedding cake. The white peacocks roaming freely added a magical touch!
Isola Madre offers a more natural experience with its English-style botanical gardens. Meanwhile, Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) is the only permanently inhabited island and perfect for a seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Continuing Onwards: Lake Orta and the French Riviera
Lake Orta remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets, just 30 minutes west of Lake Maggiore. I fell in love with Orta San Giulio, a medieval village with cobblestone streets and a peaceful main square overlooking the island of San Giulio.
The boat ride to the tiny island takes only 5 minutes. There I discovered a beautiful Benedictine monastery and walked the “Way of Silence,” a path circling the island with meditation spots along the way.
For those with more time, continuing west leads to the French Riviera. The drive takes about 3-4 hours from Lake Maggiore and brings you to glamorous coastal towns like Nice and Monaco. I found this combination of Italian lakes and French beaches created a perfect contrast in my journey.
Culminating the Adventure: Transportation and Accommodation Tips
As you plan your Lombardy adventure, choosing the right transportation and finding comfortable places to stay will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Choosing Your Mode of Travel: Train, Bus, or Rental Car
Trains are my preferred way to travel around Lombardy. The regional rail network connects Milan to Como, Varenna, and Bergamo with frequent, affordable service. I found tickets cost between €5-15 one-way, depending on your destination.
Rental cars offer the most flexibility, especially for reaching smaller towns. I rented from Milan Malpensa Airport for about €40 per day. Remember that ZTL zones (limited traffic areas) exist in historic centers, and parking can be challenging in lakeside towns.
Buses serve as good alternatives for shorter trips. The bus from Como to Bellagio takes about 45 minutes and costs around €4, offering stunning lake views along the winding roads.
My top tip? Consider a mixed approach – train to major destinations, then local buses or ferries for day trips.
Relaxing Stays: Selecting the Best Hotels and Resorts
Lake Como offers accommodation for every budget. In Varenna, I stayed at Hotel Olivedo. The charming family-run place has lake-view balconies and delicious breakfasts. The rates are €120-180 per night.
For luxury experiences, Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como’s western shore provides five-star accommodations. The rates start at €400 per night. The floating pool on the lake is unforgettable!
In Milan, I recommend staying near Porta Garibaldi for easy train connections. The NYX Hotel offers modern rooms and is just steps from Milano Centrale station. The rates are €120-150 per night.
Budget travelers should consider B&Bs in smaller towns. Rates are €60-100 per night. Agriturismos in the countryside are also a good option. Their rates are €70-120 per night. Vacation rentals are great for longer stays or groups.
Book accommodations 3-4 months in advance for high season (May-September) to secure the best options and rates.
