Milan to Lake Maggiore

Venture from Milan to Varese on a private half-day tour with an English-speaking driver in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Just an hour away, Varese, the "Garden City," awaits with its stunning villas, historic sites, and lush landscapes. Begin in Varese's charming streets, lined with boutique shops and cafés, before visiting the Palazzo Estense, an 18th-century palace with Versailles-inspired gardens. Next, explore Villa Toeplitz, known for its exotic gardens and scenic walking paths. Continue to Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO-listed pilgrimage site with 14 fresco-adorned chapels leading to a hilltop sanctuary with breathtaking views. End at Angera Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking Lake Maggiore, featuring a museum and panoramic vistas. Enjoy a fully customizable experience before returning to Milan, enriched by Varese’s natural beauty and history.

Visit the Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore the stress-free way with this private day trip from Milan. Bookable for private groups of up to 10 people, the day trip includes everything you need for a hassle-free day out at the Lombardy lake. You’ll travel by train between Milan and Stresa, then take a boat to the three islands: isole Bella, Madre, and Pescatori. The best thing? A private guide is at your side the whole day.

Add some Ferrari flair to your Italy vacation with this driving tour near Lake Maggiore. After a pickup from Milan, you’ll take to the wheel of a Ferrari M Spider and drive along a route that takes in the lake towns of Arona and Stresa along with the smaller Lake Orta. Nice touch: Lunch is included in a Stresa restaurant mid-tour.

Every Sunday and Monday Leave urban Milan for the day and spend some time at picturesque Lake Maggiore, located in Italy's Lake District. Explore the chic town of Stresa, learning about the area's history from your guide and perusing the shops. Then hop on a boat for a cruise around the lake, and take in the scenery of the water and surrounding mountains. Visit Isola dei Pescatori, where you have free time to explore, and then explore Borromeo Palace in Isola Bella, before making the return trip to Milan.

Take a journey to the Swiss Alps on the Green Train from Milan. Pass through a number of villages including Domodossola and Spiez until you reach the beautiful Interlaken. Snap some photos of the lakes and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains that reflect off the blue waters. Learn the history of each area from your guide as you take in the lush scenery of these Alpine villages.