Hello.

I was considering a trip to Milan in late April, but it might be more like mid-March (March 18-20). I had wanted to take a day trip to the Lake Como area, and I'm wondering if this date would be a poor choice to do so. Would some of the things I would want to see - i.e. places like Varenna and the gardens, Bellagio, be closed then? What about the ferries? Thanks!

The weather may decide for you. Towns do not usually close since people live there. However, many places will be shut down until mid April.

topping

Gardens in Varenna will not be open March 18-20. villa monasteropening period: From March 28th to November 1st, 2005. all days: from Monday to Sunday included.
Opening time: Every day, From 9,00 a.m. To 7,00 p.m.
Prices : Euro 2,00
http://villamonastero.org/e/w3c/giardino_e.htm
Villa del Balbianello- according to their email to me March 6th to Oct 10th this year.
http://www.fondoambiente.it/english/...nell/index.htm
Villa Melzi and villa charlotta opens mid March you can find date on their website.

Have you thought of going up to Lugano instead? The city park, with its gardens, is open year round. Most things will be open, although some of the strictly tourist oriented activities probably will be down or operating on a reduced schedule. I've been to Lugano in March (and January, May, August, and October) and there's still plenty to do and see at any time of year.