Interested in traveling to Italy beginning of October. Told not to miss Lake Como area ... thinking about flying into Milan -- and possibly out of Rome ... Would you suggest going to Nice, France ? Venice or skipping? going to Pisa ? Sorrento ? Have about 10 to 14 days including travel days ... assume that rail is best way to get around ...

Hi jrsterm, do figure the day you arrive will be sort of a "lost day" although if your flight arrives in the morning you will have some time to spend getting orientated and getting over jetlag etc. And I also figure the day I fly home as a complete lost day. If the flight is early in the morning which is often the case do figure you will need some time the day before to pack up etc.

Now, regarding your question as to where to go.Can you tell us what your interest are and what you dream of seeing. Keep in mind that anytime you change locations you can count on losing half of day. Of course you can enjoy the scenery while travelling, especially if going by train. Flying into one city and departing from another is a very good idea as you will not have to backtrack.

More information from you will help people here give you some of their ideas. Best wishes.

The European passenger rail system works very well. If this is your first trip to Italy or your group is small (three or less), then you might focus on rail travel.

Venice is a popular destination (rightly so). Personally I would drop Pisa and try to include Venice.

When planning a vacation to a new destination is always good to research what the weather might be like (temperatures especially).

Lake Como is a special place. It has some of the most stunning scenery and views that I have ever seen.

What are your special interests?

Love countryside more than big cities although I'm sure there is lots to see in Rome. What about Florence and Genoa?

Most first time travelers want to see long list of sites, the end up with a machine gun/ whirlwind itinerary. A better approach is to change cities no more often than about twice a week (you can work out day trips to smaller towns).

You can fly into or out of Venice (Rarely a direct flight from the US but still okay).
If you really want the countryside (as opposed to some small towns) then Tuscany is probably what most people would research.

Genoa is not a terribly popular tourist destination. Florence is rightly known for its renaissance architecture and museums (a popular destination).

You probably want to look at some books. Your local library is an inexpensive place to start. I would start with books with lots of pictures (to give you ideas).