The Perfect Duet: Timeless Elegance & Alpine Magic Between Milan & Lake Como
Curated By
Fabrizio Alfredo Marra Mentola
Curator’s statement
Northern Italy, blending the electric sophistication of Milan with the serene majesty of Lake Como, offers the perfect dual escape. For me, this region is special because of its seamless contrasts and the sheer breadth of experiences available right near the city. The extension into the Alps—encompassing renowned ski areas like Bormio and Livigno—is a cherished local tradition and a stunning alternative to coastal destinations like Liguria. The Valtellina, easily accessible from Milan, captivates with its historic terraced vineyards, sweet apple orchards, and a rich, hearty cuisine, making it the ideal spot for an authentic, high-end winter retreat.
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Things to do in Northern Italy
Lecco City under the Christmas lights
Private boat tour of Lake Como: The only way to fully appreciate the lake’s dramatic setting and architecture. Cruise past historic villas like Villa del Balbianello and stop for lunch in picturesque Bellagio.
Duomo Terraces skip-the-line access: Bypass the crowds and ascend to the Duomo's Terraces for unparalleled views of Milan's skyline and the Alps on the horizon—a luxury experience above the city.
QC Terme Thermal Baths Experience (Bormio): Indulge in an exclusive day of wellness at the historic Bagni Vecchi. Soak in panoramic outdoor thermal pools with stunning mountain views—a perfect, non-ski alpine retreat.
Private Milan fashion tour: Take a guided immersion into the Quadrilatero della Moda (Montenapoleone district) to learn the history and anecdotes behind Italy’s most prestigious fashion houses.
Aperitivo in the Navigli District: Experience the classic Milanese ritual. Enjoy a sophisticated drink and appetizers along the canals as the city lights up at sunset.
Authentic baita dinner near Como: Escape the tourist hustle and take a short drive or walk to a genuine baita (a rustic, local tavern) in the hills surrounding Como for an authentic regional dinner, known only to locals.
Alpine cuisine tasting (Valtellina): Dedicate an evening to the hearty specialties of the mountain region. Sample local Pizzoccheri, Sciatt, and locally produced Bresaola paired with fine Valtellina wines.
The Magic Light Festival in Lecco: If traveling during the winter season, take time to visit the spectacular light projections and Christmas markets in Lecco. Situated along the main route (SS36) toward the Valtellina, it’s a stunning, convenient detour that truly captures the holiday spirit.
Places to eat & drink in Northern Italy
Valtellina Gourmet: Wine cellars and cozy baite are the ideal setting for a genuine taste of the region. Enjoy local Bresaola and artisanal cheeses paired with a robust Nebbiolo wine.
Milan: High fashion & timeless classics
Giacomo Arengario (Duomo): Located inside the Museo del Novecento, this spot is pure Milanese chic. The food is high-end, traditional Italian, but the special perk is the view: Request a table by the window for an unparalleled, close-up look at the Duomo's spires and piazza, especially magical at night.
Ristorante Daniel (Brera/Central): The perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Chef Daniel Canzian offers a modern take on classic Lombardy cuisine, specializing in seasonal ingredients. This is where Milan's elite come for an elegant, understated dining experience.
Lake Como: Lakeside elegance & local secrets
Terrazza Serbelloni (Bellagio): Located in the iconic Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, this restaurant is the epitome of lakeside luxury. It's the place for an exceptional evening of fine dining and a comprehensive Italian wine list, all set against a breathtaking, sweeping view of the central lake.
A Simple Fisherman's Trattoria (Varenna Area): Ditch the formal villas for a night and ask your driver to take you to a simple trattoria in a quieter village like Varenna or Menaggio. Seek out the freshly caught pesce persico (perch) or lavarello (whitefish), prepared simply with butter and sage—the real, authentic taste of the lake.
Navigli: Aperitivo & local vibe
Bar Rita (Navigli): While many bars here are trendy, Bar Rita is a local institution known for its expertly crafted cocktails and generous, high-quality aperitivo buffet. It offers a slightly more authentic, less touristy experience than some other spots in the district.
Pasticceria Marchesi (Central/Montenapoleone): A historical Milanese pasticceria (bakery), now owned by Prada. It's essential for an elegant morning coffee and pastry or a refined mid-afternoon break. The mint-green aesthetic and classic desserts are a luxurious step back in time.
Valtellina Alps: Alpine comfort & hearty cuisine
Restaurant near the Bormio Terme (Bormio): After a day at the QC Terme, look for a cozy restaurant specializing in Pizzoccheri and Sciatt. The special treat here is the authenticity: the best spots use local buckwheat and Casera cheese, paired with a glass of robust Sforzato di Valtellina wine.
Valtellina wine cellars (Sondrio area): While in the region, organize a tasting at one of the terraced vineyards near Sondrio. The Nebbiolo grapes grown on these steep slopes produce unique, mineral-rich red wines that beautifully complement the Bresaola and local cheeses—a true cultural and gastronomic gem.
Need to know
Unique tips to maximize your comfort & elevate your travel experience
Golden hour on Lake Como: For truly breathtaking photography and atmosphere, plan to be on the water (via your private boat or terrace) just after sunrise. The morning mist rising off the lake and the soft light hitting the mountains is a magical, quiet spectacle often missed by mid-day travelers.
The trusted driver is your lifeline: While ferries are picturesque on Lake Como, never rely on them for tight schedules or cross-lake dinner reservations, as routes can be complex and timing is rigid. Instead, view your private driver as your personal mobile concierge, especially when transferring to the Alps—they ensure timely and seamless travel, turning potential stress into relaxation.
Embrace the coperto (table charge): In Italy, there is often a small coperto (cover charge) or servizio (service charge) on your restaurant bill. This is standard and not a tip. Do not feel obligated to leave an additional large tip; if the service was exceptional, a small cash gratuity (five to 10 percent) is a kind gesture, but anything more is unnecessary.
The Milanese hidden lunch hour: Be aware that many smaller, high-end boutiques and artisanal shops in non-touristy areas of Milan may still adhere to the traditional pausa pranzo (lunch break) and close between 1 and 3 pm. Plan your mid-day shopping in the main districts like the Quadrilatero to avoid disappointment.
The thermal retreat secret: If you visit the QC Terme in Bormio, book an evening entrance. Watching the sunset over the snow-capped mountains from the warm, historic outdoor thermal pools is an otherworldly experience that far surpasses a daytime visit.
Travel Advisor
Fabrizio Alfredo Marra Mentola
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