NW Italy - planning a trip and need advice!
 

To set the stage, we're looking at a two week trip to Italy with our two early 20's children, both of whom are experienced travellers. My first cut at the two week is as follows: fly into Milan for 3 nights/2 days; take the train to Lake Como for 4 nights, train to Genova/Cinque Terre for 4 nights, train to Florence for 3 nights and fly home from Florence. DH and I have been to Milan (last September) and the entire family has been to Florence however we still felt after 4 days there that we had barely scratched the surface and want to return. Any immediate red flags with what I've described. We've already been to Venice (twice), Dolomites, Rome and Tuscany. Thanks!

I personally would leave Milan upon arrival and go to Lake Como and take the extra days in a smaller place in Italy, perhaps Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano before departing from Florence. Have a good trip.

I'm one who really likes Milan, but I don't think I'd recommend 3 nights there. If your flight lands at Malpensa fairly early in the day, you could spend that afternoon and evening seeing the main sights and then train to Varenna the next day (even late afternoon). If it interests you, get reservations for the Last Supper for the morning after your arrival day.

I'd add the night (or two) saved to Florence and plan a day trip or two into the countryside (Siena, SanGim, Lucca, Pisa, a winery tour in Chianti or whatever interests you). I'd do these as day trips rather than packing up and moving to other hotels.

We really liked Milan on our last trip without kids; they want to see Duomo, laScala, Palace and Last Supper; plus one is a huge F1 fan so the Ferrari store is a must see.

Still think that you're doing overkill on Milano. Most of what you specify can be easily appreciated in two days and then add the extra time to Firenze. Mrs. K and I spent 8 days in Firenze and environs last year and felt we could have easily doubled that without burning ourselves out