In October we're spending two weeks in Tuscany then headed to Lake Como and Lake Orta for a total of 4 nights before flying out of Malpensa at 9:30 AM on the 5th day.
Questions: How should we divide that time between Como and Orta?
Should we drop our car before getting to the Lake Region? And if so, where?
We're thinking about at least 2 nights in Bellagio, taking the car ferry to Mennagio and then driving to Lugano on our way to Lake Orta. Does that make sense? If so, what is the best route? Would this itiniary be better using public transportation? Thanks for your suggestions.

With 4 nights (3 days), I would concentrate on Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore area. I would keep the car the entire time and driving to the airport the morning of your flight.

I agree with Budman. Having the car with you will provide the flexibility to experience that area more fully.

And while in Orta, be sure to visit the Sacromonte. It's remarkable.

IMO, the most scenic of all the Lakes is Lugano. Lake Orta is special thanks to the nicest (also IMO) of all the Lake-side towns - Orta San Giulio. Leave the rental car at Malpensa, about an hour from Orta San Giulio...

Budman, From what I've been reading I think I would enjoy Lake Como over Lake Maggiore. And several reviews I've read said Orta would be the closest to Malpensa for our last night. I was tentatively planning to arrive in Bellagio Sunday afternoon, spent the next day and night there then spend the following day driving through Lugano. Do you think we would have time to go over to the Borromean Islands before driving on to Orta San Guilio? That would leave us one day to see Orta San Guilio.

Can anyone suggest the best route from Lugano to Orta San Guilio?

>Can anyone suggest the best route from Lugano to Orta San Guilio?< The best (quickest) way is the Laveno-Verbania ferry.

I'd suggest Gandria and/or Morcote and/or Monte Bre for your 'driving through Lugano'. Very scenic...

Yes, take the scenic route via Locarno, Ascona, and Omegna. Or,add Stresa to the mix and allow time for the Borremean Isles. If you do that, then drive the back road via Gignese to Orta.

Thanks Tuck and Bob. Can you tell me approximately how long the picturesque routes would take? I'd love to see the Barromean Islands, if time permits.
Also can you suggest a good map we could use for route planning. I have the Michelin 561 regional; but, can barely see some of the places you've mentioned

Pawleys,

Here's a site that provides a guided tour of Lakes Orta, Maggiore, and Como, and it might be of interest to you. They have some nice ideas of tours throughout the area. It might help you to pick and chose from what will fit your particular need/ideas/timeframes. I'm going to use it as a strawman for my upcoming trip.

http://www.italianvisits.com/walks/walk-lakes.htm

Great website, Budman. It gave me some wonderful ideas for the Lakes region and for the time we're in Chianti.
I'd love to take some of the walks they're describing. Have you seen any hiking guides that would be helpful?

Glad it helped out. No, but others might be able to help you. Start a thread saying words to the effect "Hiking Tours in the Lake Orta an Lake Como area."

For Lake Como hikes...

http://www.epinions.com/content_107488644740