Tricia

We are just finishing up the planning for our trip in late September/early October. We have decided to spend our last night in Italy at Lago Maggiore - we have reservations at the Hotel Villa Carlotta in Belgirate. Now I'm wondering if we should stay in Stresa? Is it easier to get to/from? <BR> <BR>Also - we are flying out of Malpensa at 1:30pm the next day - is it pretty easy to find a bus/train to get from Belgirate/Stresa to Malpensa? How early should we leave to make sure we arrive in time for the flight? <BR> <BR>One last question...how late do the ferries go from Stresa to Isola Bella? We will probably be arriving in late afternoon and would like to squeeze a trip to the islands in if possible - enough time?

GAC

I would stay in Stresa. Much better transportation option. There are frequent trains from the charming Stresa station to Gallarate (but make sure the train stops there and does not go directly to Milano!!!), from where you can take a shuttle to Malpensa or a taxi for about $15.00. Ferries to Isola Bella stop at sunset, so you won't have much time arriving in the late afternoon. But the trip is most worthwhile.

StCirq

I agree you'll be much better off staying in Stresa. <BR>As for ferries, perhaps there was a boat large enough to be called a "ferry," but if so, we didn't take it. We took the hydrofoil once or twice, and on several occasions took one of the myriad small private boats that hold about 8 people. We came back from Isola Pescatori late after dinner one night, so I'm pretty sure you'll be able to get round past sunset if you absolutely have to - though maybe not on the ferry or larger boat.

GAC

After the public boat service stops running, you will have to catch a private taxiboat to return to Stresa. Not a problem, just a question of money!

Shel

<BR> <BR>In case you do decide to stay in Stresa, I recommend the Hotel La Palma. We stayed there about a month ago and it was truly lovely. <BR> <BR>Have a great trip! <BR> <BR>Shel