Italian Lakes Itinerary: See Milan, Verona & the Italian Lakes.

If you like to take control of the reins on holiday and explore the area you are visiting, a fly-drive holiday in Italy could be just what you need. Allowing you to get the most from your time away, fly drive holidays are becoming increasingly popular. On the road you have the freedom to stop where and when you like for a break, to admire that fantastic view and get off the beaten track a little. Check out this Italian Lakes itinerary for a great holiday in northern Italy taking in two popular cities and the natural beauty of the lakes in between. For more information, check out our Guide to the Italian Lakes.

1 Night – Milan

Having landed at Milan Airport, track down your hotel and drop off your things for your 1 night stop in Milan. Once you’ve checked in, your first stop should be at the church of Santa Maria della Grazie to view the infamous and breath-taking work of art, “the Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci. The remainder of the day could be spent exploring Centro Milan on foot plus a visit to Castello Sforzesco which contains 12 miniature museums and of course the Castle itself. It’s really up to you as to how you spend your time however; you may prefer to utilise the fantastic shopping opportunities or enjoy a canal cruise instead.

2 Nights – Lake Maggiore

Once you’ve collected your hire car, you’ll be ready to hit the open road first thing on day two, heading for the beautiful Lake Maggiore. Here you can spend two blissful nights free from the crowds and surrounded by exquisite natural beauty. Each of the Italian Lakes has a micro climate however Maggiore is the coolest of the three meaning it is the best place for hiking. Lose yourself in the Alpine backdrop and relax with a ferry boat ride on the Lake itself. Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Pescatori, some of the islands dotted within the Lake, are each attractive and interesting to explore.

2 Nights – Lake Como

Depart Lake Maggiore and follow the route around the Northern shores, which cross over into Switzerland, to the next stop of the itinerary; Lake Como. The deepest in Europe and shadowed by the Alps, Lake Como certainly does not disappoint. Activities to be enjoyed on Lake Como range from the relaxing to the very active. Try your hand at golf or hire a bicycle and explore the surrounding areas of the lake. You can also enjoy a Gondola Ride from the Funiculare on the Western shore of the lake and enjoy the fantastic views. Whichever activities you choose to partake in, ensure you keep your eyes peeled for the host of celebrities who live along the shores of Lake Como.

2 Nights – Lake Garda

The next stop on the itinerary is the most popular of the three Lakes; Garda. Located just over two hours away, the drive there can be slow paced and leisurely, allowing you to take in the sights along the way. Spend your days here exploring the towns and villages dotted around the Lake and be sure to get involved in the boundless array of activities. Have a go at rock climbing, wind surfing, sailing and swimming not to mention a ride in the cable car which takes you 1,800m above sea level. There are many different footpaths up here allowing you to explore the surroundings.

1 Night – Verona

The last leg of the journey will take you just one hour before the city of Verona comes into view. Driving past the southern shore of the Lake will be your last opportunity to drink in the fantastic views and make the most of the picture-perfect photo opportunities, so take it slow and embrace it. Once you arrive in Verona there is plenty to see and do; see the Cathedral of Verona, Juliet’s balcony and of course the Verona Arena amongst plenty more. Be sure to indulge and enjoy a fantastic Italian breakfast on your last morning before it’s time to return your car and fly home.

This Italian Lakes itinerary is just a taste of the type of fly drive holiday you could have. The beauty and appeal of fly drives is that you can tailor the itinerary so it suits you perfectly.