Signature itinerary
Lake Como and Lugano
From Cernobbio to Tremezzina, the Ghisallo and Ticino
Three days on the western branch and into Ticino, where the roads are narrow and the view changes at every bend: the size of the car matters more than its power. One car for the whole trip, chosen for the narrowest road and not the widest. Your advisor prepares the car, the border crossing and the paperwork. You drive.
Day 1
Arrival and the western shore
Delivery in Milan or directly in Como, lakeside road to Cernobbio and Tremezzina, with Villa del Balbianello which is visited by booking, check-in.
Driving notes: The lakeside road is narrow, with walls flush to it and tunnels. You often pass oncoming cars in reverse, and that is normal.
Day 2
Bellagio and the Ghisallo
Car ferry to Bellagio, morning in the village and at Punta Spartivento, then the climb to the Ghisallo and the descent to Asso, the road cyclists made famous.
Driving notes: The Ghisallo climb is all bends and is shared with cyclists. Keeping the pace low is part of the trip.
Day 3
Menaggio, Porlezza and Lugano
Through the Menaggio valley to Porlezza and Lake Lugano, the Swiss lakefront and the Monte Brè viewpoint by funicular. Drop-off in Lugano or return to Milan.
Driving notes: The longest leg, with luggage and the crossing towards Gandria. Better to cross outside commuter hours.
FAQ
Which car for this itinerary?
One car for all three days. On the lake size matters more than power: a Porsche Macan fits where a Mercedes-Benz GLS has to manoeuvre, and for two people a Porsche 911 Carrera is even better between the walls. The large SUV only makes sense if you are four with luggage.
Can I cross into Switzerland with a rental car?
Yes, agreed in advance: leaving Italy has to be authorised on the contract. Swiss motorways require the vignette, and your concierge prepares it along with the rest of the documents.
Can I cross the lake by ferry with the car?
Yes. The ferry links Cadenabbia, Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, and saves hours compared with driving around the lake. Your advisor gives you the day's timetable.
Want to live this itinerary? Talk to a concierge.