We have four days for the lake area. I was in Varenna many years ago and loved it. However, I would like suggestions for other areas to go such as Garda, Lugano or any other places.
Thanks for any suggestions.

We did a trip for about 12 days one year that was nothing but the Italian Lake country and it remains one of our all time favorites. Besides lake Como, we really enjoyed Lake Orta with its lovely island (prettier to view from the shores or from a touring boat than to be on, though)and small town of Orta San Julio. Maggiore is also very nice and can be seen as a day trip from Orta--or vice versa. The Borromean islands off Stresa are very interesting and beautiful. We prefer the smaller towns on Lake Garda to the more touristy Sirmione. Consider Torri del Benaco on the East side or Gargnano on the West, though many are also partial to Limone sul Garda and Riva del Garda. Iseo is smaller and with less to do that the other lakes but it too is pretty. You probably can't go wrong anywhere on the lakes. They are beautiful and so relaxing. Enjoy.

Hi KB - For Lake Garda, I second Julie's recommendations of Riva del garda, Limone and Torri del Benaco. Also Malcesine ...

Hope this helps ...

Steve

Don't miss Stresa, its beautiful.

When are you going?
Will you have a car?
Where are you coming from/going to?

There are 5 major lakes that would take 2 weeks to see well. I would do a combo of Maggiore/Orta or Como/Lugano but not both in that time.

We will be in Italy for two weeks starting the middle of June and we will have a car.
I so much appreciate all your suggestions.
Kitty B.

Heer are 2 photo galleries of the lakes--see what hits you:
http://www.slowphotos.com/photo/show...y.php?cat=4173

http://www.slowphotos.com/photo/show...y.php?cat=4442

Hi Bob,
The problem with your photos is that everything "hits me". So what is your favorite. I just love your photos.
Thank you so much

Como is the most spectacular setting, but I would not stay in Varenna with a car. Stay on the west shore--Menaggio---and take time for a day trip into Lugano--an hour away.

However, if you are going to Malpensa after the lakes for departure then staying in Stresa with a day trip to Orta makes more sense.