Need some help with the final stage of our planning. After leaving Bolzano (day trips into the Dolomites/weather permitting(early June), and north into Merano and Naturno), will be heading for 3 nts to Bellagio and 3 more in Stresa. In order to break up a rather long drive (Bolzano to Bellagio), I know we can either take the northern route thru St. Moritz (repeating some of my daytrip route out of Bolzano) or possibly the southern route down the western side of Lake Garda, thru Brescia, Bergamo, and onto Bellagio. Could you fodorites help with suggestions as to where to spend one night on the road if we head south and or north?Also, any hotel suggestions along either route would be appreciated (would like something nice). Sorry for the rambling.

The drive is not that long---I would get to Lago Como ASAP.

Thanks bobthenavigator. Can you tell me some routes to consider if we wanted to drive directly to Lago Como. The problem, we would have already spent two nts in Varona and I'm trying not to duplicate the routes. Any suggestion you or anyone has would be greatly appreciated. I would prefer to drive directly in lieu of spending night in between, unless the ride is "too" long.

Well, Google maps says 3:38 via the most direct route--mostly autostrada---via Bergamo and A-4, but I think that is not accurate. I would allow 6 hours with a nice stop for lunch in Sirmione ar the south end of Lago Garda. I will check the more scenic route for you--do you use the Google maps program?

OK---the mid-route via Sondrio says 4:49, but I would allow 6 hours. We took the north route via Merano and Zerez in 2009---very scenic---but stayed in Guarda, CH for 2 nites.
Click on my name above to find that trip report.

Yes, bobthenavigator. I have looked at google maps and actually 3 different routes as I was trying to avoid previously visited locations (north thru St. Moritz and 2 southern routes, one down the western side of Lake Garda, the other down thru Trento, Varona, etc from what I remember). But, I was reading some "old" commentary on the forums and it made it appear that it would be difficult to drive all in one day. I'd be interested in your suggestion(s) as you seem to be the "go to guy" for Italy assistance. Thanks for taking the time.

If you do decide to stop, Bergamo is really charming, with some nice restaurants.

thanks sassafrass. any suggestions as to hotels in Bergamo if we decide to overnight there enroute to lake como.

The most recommended places were all booked when we went. The place we stayed was nicely located, right in the center of old town, and the room was large with a tiny kitchen, but it was kind of shabby, so I would probably try for something else next time. The owner was really nice and took us to the airport though. You will have a car, so won't need that. I don't have the name of it handy, but will try to find it, so when you see it on line, you will at least have an opinion on it.

I can thoroughly recommend La Valletta Relais, Castagneta 19, Citta Alta, Bergamo. A beautiful B & B - the owners are delightful. It is a pleasant 15 min walk from there to the old town. See reviews on Trip Advisor.

thanks Italy_Lover. Will look into it. Still considering driving directly from Bolzano to Lake Como on the most direct route. This will still take us thru Bergamo to at least look around, if not staying.

If you do go, the nicest part (imho) is the Citta Alta - the old town - which is a short uphill drive from Bergamo town.