Lombardy
Lombardy is a diverse region. It has the cosmopolitan city of Milan that is known as one of the fashion capitals of the world but it has so much more to offer. The other main attractions in this region are the beautiful lakes which can be reached in a matter of 40 minutes from Milan.
Milan
The iconic symbols of Milan are its beautiful Duomo (Cathedral), Galleria Vittorio Emanule II and the world-renowned La Scala Opera House. It is also known as one of the premier fashion capitals of the world. Milan is not laden with medieval streets and ancient buildings like Rome and Florence. For that reason it offers a unique experience. It does offer plenty to see and has the benefit of being very close to Milano Malpensa International Airport.
Sights
Milan Duomo
This amazing structure dates to 1386. The construction continued until the beginning of the 19th Century. It is the third largest church in the world. Its sheer size and beautiful architecture make this a do not miss sight. It is dripping with gargoyles. You can gain access to the Cathedral roof via an elevator. I highly recommend this visit. You get to see the Gargoyles covering many surfaces of the building. You also get a great view of the city. We were mesmerized by the details of the Cathedral during our visit to the roof.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuale II
This steel and glass mall is worth a visit. It houses plenty of shopping and restaurants. It is very close to the Duomo and La Scala Opera House. The whole structure is covered with a glass dome so you can shop ‘till you drop without fear of getting your Armani suit wet! I love this arcade and think it is very beautiful.
Teatro Alla Scala
Known mostly as just La Scala, this is the Mecca of all Opera Houses. The crowd knows their stuff and can be very critical. Pavarotti, the man himself, was booed and whistled at during the final act of Lucia di Lammermoor in March 1983.
Restaurants
Ristorante Galleria
In the high rent district of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuale II across from the Gucci store. They are open all hours of the day and do not close until 12:30 AM. The atmosphere is great if you like Galleria itself. The service is excellent and the food was good. Nice for a lunch break but also a good spot for dinner.
Ristorante Boeucc
This is a higher-end choice near La Scala in Piazza Bel Gioso. It is a wonderful spot for a post opera dinner. They stayed open until after the opera just to host us and another couple. They have classic Milano dishes such as Ossobucco with Risotto Milanese and Veal Cutlet Milanese. They have nice touches when they serve, like preparing the salad tableside.
Coco Pazzo
This is a lively restaurant located about a 10 minute walk from the Duomo. It is a good place to stop for lunch. We had a vegetable soup, Bresaola with Arugula and Parmigiano and Vitello Tonato; an interesting blend of a cold Veal Scallopini with a tuna sauce over it. It sounds odd but it is one of my favorite dishes and you do not see it on too many menus.
Accomodations
NH Collection President
This is a reasonably priced 5 star hotel located about 5 minutes from the Duomo. They have some rooms with balconies. We splurged for our 25th Anniversary and stayed in the Presidential Suite. It was a very large and lovely room with a narrow wraparound balcony. The place is kept impeccably clean and has the amenities you would expect in a 5 star hotel.
Bellagio
It is a strange thing for us about this town. We had been here twice before but when we returned for our last visit during May of 2022, we fell in love. Perhaps it had something to do with the hotel we stayed at which was one of the favorites of our 3 week trip (more on that later). Bellagio is really a beautiful and unique lakeside town. There are plenty of Ferries and Hydrofoils plying the waters to whisk you away to other villages to explore. There are lanes that climb up the steps that host many of the town’s restaurants and shops. Typically these lanes are flower-filled. There are also wonderful views from the town of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Sights
Villa Serbelloni Gardens
Lovely Gardens that are definitely worth a visit. There are a limited number of visits per day so be sure to investigate the timing before you go. A nice way to spend a couple of hours.
Villa Melzi Gardens
Another beautiful spot to spend a couple of hours. Again, make sure you check in advance for the hours.
Abbey of Piona
If you would like a quirky side trip then this is the place for you. It is a beautiful Abbey located about a 1 hour Hydrofoil ride from Bellagio. It is well worth the visit. It has beautiful grounds and the Abbey is worth the trip alone. They produce some products that are for sale but their most famous product is the Imperial Drops. But be careful, it is 90% alcohol (180 proof)!
Hotels
Hotel Belvedere
Located a short walk from the center of town, this lovely 4 star feels much more like a 5 star Luxury Hotel. There are lush gardens, a swimming pool, Spa and beautiful surroundings throughout. If you can swing it, the Junior Suite with Terrace overlooking the lake is worth every penny. Our Junior Suite was extremely clean and comfortable with the best air conditioning of our trip. The bedding was also the best we had on our three week journey. The beds were so comfortable that we asked what the brand of mattresses were so we could purchase one for our home.
Grand Hotel Serbelloni
This is the only 5 Star in Bellagio. It is a stunning property with gardens that warrant a separate visit even if you do not stay here. It is right on the lake and has excellent views if you have the right room. You do pay dearly for all of this luxury and beauty.
Hotel Florence
I think this is the best choice of the more reasonable priced hotels in Bellagio. It is right on the lake and has all of the benefits but there is some noise from the Ferries that dock nearby. Try for the Suite with Terrace.
Restaurants
La Terrazza at Hotel Belvedere
This is a high end restaurant with lovely views over the lake. It is formal but not too stuffy. The food is good but you really come here for the views.
Antiche Sapori
Small Restaurant with a nice outdoor area to dine. They serve excellent homemade pastas that we both enjoyed very much. Very friendly service. I highly recommend this place.
Ristorante Bilacus
Lovely restaurant with a terrace. They offer an excellent menu along with a well stocked wine cellar. The staff is charming and very helpful. Be sure to reserve in advance.
La Punta
A great location on a point a little outside the town but not a far walk. They serve a good mix of food on the menu including lake fish, salumi, pasta and other offerings. Make sure to ask for a table on the terrace for a wonderful view of the lake.
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