3 home bases
 

I need some suggestions. I have taken into consideration all the advice for my upcoming trip, but I would love some more advice. I have narrowed ny trip down to 3 bases:

Stresa - I will do the ferry with stopping on all 3 islands. I am also planning to take the next day to do the Ferry across to Lorcano and train it back.

Verona - highlights include the Opera one evening. Walking tour and visit to Juliet,s house ( I know it might seem cheesy).

I have a day i could devote to either Verona or Stresa. Any suggestions? I love small medieval towns . Part of me wants to grab an early morning train or tour and go to Venice for the day (I had been here once).

Against everyone’s advice and warnings, I am spending 2 nights in Vernazza. if it is insanely crowded. i will hop an ealry morning train in the opposite direction of the crowds and come back to enjoy the view.

That leaves an overnight in Milan. I plan to book a Last Supper tour and Duomo (is a visit to Leonardo’s garden worth a look? I would love a day itinerary to make the most of my day in Milan.

I feel I am missing something and I can’t quite put my finger on it. More time would help, but it is not in the cards.

I'd devote extra day to Verona - not a small medieval town but a large city with neat old central core - an ABC city for sure - Another Bloody Church but really nice ones on every corner. And Juliet's balcony - Ersatz or not neat watching folks pose there. Trains are great on all those routes - stick to regional trains that are dirt cheap and no need to buy in advance as they have a flat fare. buy at stations as go. For lots on trains check www.seat61.com; BETS-European Rail Experts and www.ricksteves.com.

PalenQ you have never steered me wrong. Can you suggest one village close by with a train (I say one because I want to do too much alrready).