3 extra days? Genoa? Como? Cinque Terre?
Feb 22nd, 2006, 07:34 PM
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3 extra days? Genoa? Como? Cinque Terre?
We find ourselves with 3 extra days in Italy (after ending a trip in Milano) and since - in all our numerous trips - we've not spent any time in Genoa or Lake Como we thought we might try one of those two places. My DH has never been to Cinque Terre, and I have, so I also hold that as a possibility. This would be the 3rd week of June. Anyone have a favorite of the three? I know they all hold different things, but just wanted some of your kind Fodorville opinions on your favorite things about Genoa, or Lake Como, or the Cute Five (aka Cinque Terre)Lands...Opinions and comments heartily welcomed...
Feb 22nd, 2006, 07:50 PM
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Hi wanderlust, I always find this kind of question so difficult to answer because one does not know the rest of the locations that the person has travelled to, what there favorite type of locations are, what their interest are etc.
So saying that, and noting that you will be in Milan, this is my thinking.
First of all I really enjoy Milan. I have been there many times and like some here on Fodor's I truly (to repeat) really like this city.
Second, do you want to go to another city after Milan or would you prefer a change of pace.
If you want another city, I really love Genoa. Most travellers do not visit Genoa, but IMO it is a fantastic city.
If you want a change from a city atmosphere than Lake Como would be my choice as you expressed an interest in Lake Como.
My third and last choice would be Cinque Terre. I was there before it was "discovered" so to speak. But the last time I was there I left..not my cup up tea. But you have been there so only you would know if it would be a good spot for you two.
So saying that, and noting that you will be in Milan, this is my thinking.
First of all I really enjoy Milan. I have been there many times and like some here on Fodor's I truly (to repeat) really like this city.
Second, do you want to go to another city after Milan or would you prefer a change of pace.
If you want another city, I really love Genoa. Most travellers do not visit Genoa, but IMO it is a fantastic city.
If you want a change from a city atmosphere than Lake Como would be my choice as you expressed an interest in Lake Como.
My third and last choice would be Cinque Terre. I was there before it was "discovered" so to speak. But the last time I was there I left..not my cup up tea. But you have been there so only you would know if it would be a good spot for you two.
Feb 22nd, 2006, 07:58 PM
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Hey LoveItaly
Thanks so much. We've been all over Italy, with the exception of Como and Genoa. I just wanted any tidbits or insights from all you wonderful, helpful people. Thanks so much for your post! Genoa really intrigues me. We likely will stay in one city and maybe do a day trip - either to CT for my DH to look about or perhaps Portofino, we haven't decided. We have traveled a lot in Italy and these three days will be at the end of another 2 weeks, beginning in Rome and going slowly north through Tuscany and into Venice, then ending in Milano. So, that is why we were thinking of Genoa or CT or Como. Thanks so much for your reply!
Thanks so much. We've been all over Italy, with the exception of Como and Genoa. I just wanted any tidbits or insights from all you wonderful, helpful people. Thanks so much for your post! Genoa really intrigues me. We likely will stay in one city and maybe do a day trip - either to CT for my DH to look about or perhaps Portofino, we haven't decided. We have traveled a lot in Italy and these three days will be at the end of another 2 weeks, beginning in Rome and going slowly north through Tuscany and into Venice, then ending in Milano. So, that is why we were thinking of Genoa or CT or Como. Thanks so much for your reply!
Mar 7th, 2006, 11:52 AM
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I would recommend staying in Camogli, which is just 20 minutes south of Genoa via the train. It will give you the peace and prettiness of Lago di Como, and you can go to Genoa as much as you like. You can also take a boat to visit Portofino (and that is the way to see it: from a boat). You can take the train to Cinque Terre, but in June you are likely to experience quite a tourist scene.
But best reason to go anywhere in or around Genoa: You will eat the best food in Italy if you like seafood and/or pesto.
I stayed at the 3-star La Casmona (with a terrace is optimal). There is also a 4-star, Cenobbio al Doge.
But best reason to go anywhere in or around Genoa: You will eat the best food in Italy if you like seafood and/or pesto.
I stayed at the 3-star La Casmona (with a terrace is optimal). There is also a 4-star, Cenobbio al Doge.
Mar 7th, 2006, 12:07 PM
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Well, if you want to spend your last night on Lago di Como, you can still do that even if you do go to the Riviera. I've often had lunch seaside at the Mediterranean then taken the train to Stresa on Lago Maggiore, arriving before dinnertime. Dinner lakeside, then the early morning bus to Malpensa.
There are also ways to access Malpensa from Lago di Como, but it's far less convenient.
Bottom line is: If you have an early morning flight, you have to stay somewhere near Milan your LAST night. But if you pick Lago di Como, you'll be getting up very early in the morning if you are driving or will have to stay in a town with a bus connection to Malpensa or pay a driver 120 euro to get you to Malpensa.
There are also ways to access Malpensa from Lago di Como, but it's far less convenient.
Bottom line is: If you have an early morning flight, you have to stay somewhere near Milan your LAST night. But if you pick Lago di Como, you'll be getting up very early in the morning if you are driving or will have to stay in a town with a bus connection to Malpensa or pay a driver 120 euro to get you to Malpensa.
Mar 7th, 2006, 12:10 PM
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Sorry, my above post should have read:
If you want to spend your last night on either lake Orta or Maggiore, that's an easy trip from Genoa or Camogli. It's just as easy as getting to Milan.
I wouldn't base my decision of how to spend the entire 3 or 4 days on the extra hour it will take you get to Malpensa from the Riviera as opposed to the lakes.
If you want to spend your last night on either lake Orta or Maggiore, that's an easy trip from Genoa or Camogli. It's just as easy as getting to Milan.
I wouldn't base my decision of how to spend the entire 3 or 4 days on the extra hour it will take you get to Malpensa from the Riviera as opposed to the lakes.
