The agenda of the Dolomites and Lake Como itinerary comes into play if one is planning to visit Northern Italy, having just the right amount of adventure, relaxation, and stunning sceneries.
The guide will take you across the best routes, activities, and hidden secrets in both regions for an unforgettable journey. This itinerary will cover everything you need, whether for 3, 7, or 10 days, in pursuit of perfection.
Key Takeaways
- The Dolomites and Lake Como itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in Northern Italy.
- Start your journey in Milan, exploring historical landmarks and shopping spots.
- Lake Como is known for its glamorous villas, scenic towns like Bellagio and Varenna, and the iconic Villa del Balbianello.
- Reach the Dolomites by car for a scenic drive or by train for a more relaxed journey.
- The Dolomites provide stunning hiking trails like Tre Cime di Lavaredo, peaceful lakes like Lago di Braies, and panoramic views in Alpe di Siusi.
- Suggested itineraries range from 3 to 10 days, allowing you to experience both destinations at your own pace.
- Consider adding scenic drives like Passo Gardena and Passo Pordoi to your trip for extra adventure.
- Combine Milan, Lake Como, and the Dolomites into a longer Northern Italy itinerary for a complete experience.
Starting in Milan – Entrance to Northern Italy
Your Dolomites and Lake Como itinerary most probably starts in the busy city of Milan. It is known for its fashion, architecture, and rich history, making it great to spend a day looking around. Some top things to do in Milan include visits to:
- Duomo di Milano: This historic cathedral has great city views if you visit the rooftop.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: This is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls and serves just perfectly for a combination of sightseeing and expensive shopping.
- Sforza Castle: It was an ancient fortress, now it hosts several museums.
After enjoying all the hectic activities of the city, prepare yourself for heading toward Lake Como.
Exploring Lake Como – Beauty by the Water
Your Lake Como Northern Italy journey is never complete without visiting this lake. The lake is renowned for its glamorous villas, its towns, and the mountainous views. Below are some things that one can do and plan for when on this itinerary.
- Bellagio: Sometimes referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio has gained fame from its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and views of the surrounding lake.
- Varenna: This town is quieter than Bellagio but equally impressive. Don’t forget a peek at historic Villa Monastero and its botanical garden.
- Villa del Balbianello: Setting for Star Wars and James Bond, this estate perches on a stunning promontory and is one of the most-visited sites around the lake.
You will have a few options to travel to the Dolomites from Lake Como:
- Lake Como to Dolomites by car: The 4-5-hour drive takes you across some of the most beautiful regions in Italy-from rolling hills through vineyards and charming villages up to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites.
- Lake Como to the Dolomites by Train: If one wants something more laid-back, then a train is also an option. It will take about 7 hours due to transfers, but it will be comfortable.
The Dolomites – A Natural Wonderland
Once you reach the Dolomites, you’ll find towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and far-reaching hiking trails.
Whether you are an aficionado of outdoor activities or just an admirer of beautiful sceneries, there is something for everyone’s taste in the Dolomites. Herein are the top things to do:
- Hiking: On the Earth Trekkers Dolomites tour, follow some of the most famous trails, including the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a place that must be seen by every hiker. Later, get delighted with jagged peaks and emerald-green lakes.
- Lago di Braies: Also referred to as the “Pearl of the Dolomites,” this lake is the perfect place for a peaceful ride with a boat or to have a picnic along the shores of the lake.
- Alpe di Siusi: The largest alpine meadow in Europe offers breathtaking views over the Dolomites. Recommended for hiking, biking, and general sightseeing.
The Dolomites and Lake Como Itinerary Suggestions
From one week to ten days, it depends on how much time you have-the trip could be adjusted based on the following suggested itinerary:
- The Dolomites and Lake Como Itinerary 3 Days: If you have limited time, consider allocating a single day at Lake Como to visit Bellagio and Varenna and then devote two days to the Dolomites-hike around Tre Cime di Lavaredo or Lago di Braies.
- Dolomites and Lake Como 7-Day Itinerary: This week allows one to indulge in both regions. Three days at Lake Como, including boat rides and villa tours, are followed by four days in the Dolomites with hikes or panoramic drives through the mountains.
- Dolomites and Lake Como Itinerary 10 Days: You can extend your trip to 10 days to make it more leisurely. You can dedicate 4 days to Lake Como, enjoying the food there and taking a relaxed tour around. Then, you take 5 days for hiking and sightseeing in the Dolomites. Of course, an extra day will be used to explore Milan and its neighboring cities.
Scenic Drives and Hidden Gems
One of the great ways to get a feel for Northern Italy is to drive. Here are some of the best scenic drives you can add to your Dolomites and Lake Como itinerary:
- Passo Gardena: From high mountain passes to hairpin turns, this pass connects Val Gardena and Val Badia.
- Passo Pordoi: Another iconic mountain pass for surreal views of the Sella group and the Marmolada glacier.
These drives let you find those tiny treasures along the way, from small mountain villages to secluded alpine meadows.
Combining Milan, Lake Como, and the Dolomites
If you have more time, you can include other nearby cities in your Northern Italy itinerary. Milan, Lake Como, and the Dolomites are well-placed for longer trips through Northern Italy.
- Northern Italy Itinerary 14 Days: On a two-week trip, you can see even more after Milan and Lake Como, add the Dolomites, and then Venice or Verona.
- Northern Italy Itinerary 7 Days: On trips shorter than this, reduce the destinations to Milan, Lake Como, and the Dolomites. During this time, you will get both city life and nature, yet without hurrying.
- Northern Italy 5-Day Itinerary: If you are in a great hurry, even 5 days will be enough to get a feeling for Milan and visit Lake Como, plus squeeze in a short hike in the Dolomites.
FAQs about the Dolomites and Lake Como itinerary
How close are the Dolomites to Lake Como?
The Dolomites aren’t that close to Lake Como. They are about 4 to 5 hours from each other, depending on the route.
Is there a train from the Dolomites to Lake Como?
There isn’t a direct train from the Dolomites to Lake Como. You’ll have to take several transfers by train, and it will take up to 7 hours.
How many days do you need for Dolomites?
You should stay for at least 3 to 4 days in the Dolomites to explore the main hiking trails and just enjoy the landscape that is around you.
How many days does Lake Como need to be seen?
You can see the highlights of Lake Como in 2 to 3 days. This length of time allows you to visit towns like Bellagio and Varenna.
What is the nearest Italian city to the Dolomites?
Bolzano is the nearest major Italian city to the Dolomites and thus Bolzano would be a good starting point for your visit.
Is it worth going to the Dolomites?
Yes, the Dolomites are worth visiting for their breathtaking views, also for hiking trails, and to get lost peacefully in nature.
Which city is closer to the Dolomites, Milan or Venice?
Venice is closer to the Dolomites, though, than Milan. From Venice, it takes 2 to 3 hours by car to reach the Dolomites.
Is Lake Garda close to the Dolomites?
Yes, Lake Garda is fairly close to the Dolomites. Something like a 2-hour drive makes it a great addition to your trip.
Where to go after visiting the Dolomites?
From the Dolomites, you can visit Venice, Lake Garda, or even go as far as Austria if you are looking for something a little different.
Final Words
Planning the perfect Dolomites and Lake Como itinerary depends on time and interests. Whether you are a fan of hiking, relaxing by the lake, or driving through breathtaking mountain passes, this region has something for everyone.
Make sure to leave enough time to fully enjoy both the Dolomites and Lake Como and take in the flavors of the local cuisine, from fresh pasta in the Dolomites to seafood on the shores of Lake Como.
This will put you in a vantage position to create an itinerary that includes the best of landscape and outdoor activities, as well as cultural experiences, that Northern Italy has to offer.
