Milan and Lake Como

Originally, the plan was to head down to Cornwall to get a few days away, however, unforeseen circumstances thwarted that so a last minute plan was required stat. So, it was concluded that the next best thing would be an impromptu trip to Italy, hopefully for some sunshine, pizza and pasta…

I have been to Italy a good few times but yet to visit Lake Como, which was pretty high up on my travel list. I have to say that it certainly didn’t dissappoint.

It was very much a whistle-stop visit to Lake Como – the first port of call was Varenna. The weather was perfect which only enhanced the fact that it really is an impossibly beautiful part of the world. 

Lake Como is a notoriously busy destination. If like me, you’d enjoy the experience more when it’s not as overrun, I’d recommend visiting in September. During my visit, the place was hardly empty but I imagine it was a lot quieter than it is during the height of the summer – and what’s more, the weather is still fabulous.

If you are looking for the perfect spot with views and delicious food in Varenna then look no further than Hotel Royal Victoria. It really is the most stunning spot. 

Gently milling around the narrow cobbled streets of Varenna is a must. It’s characterised by its honey and rust coloured houses, waterside al fresco restaurants and of course those picture-perfect views of Lake Como.

Varenna is also the perfect jump-off point for many other Lake Como destinations, such as Bellagio, Bellano and Tremezzo, and many more. 

Next up, it was time to spend a few days exploring Milan – a city I’d yet to visit. I had been reliably informed that you only need one or two days to experience the city’s main highlight, and I’d absolutely agree with this.

Duomo di Milano. 

Galleria Vitoria Emanuele II. 

For me, the main overall highlight of Milan was the food. There are many brilliant restaurants and sometimes, there is just something so lovely about including in a bit of unbridled carb consumption. You know what I am talking about. The food in Italy just lights up the dopamine receptors in a different way. 

Of course I could not come to Milan without visiting the much-hyped, TikTok-viral spa: QC Termemilano. After a few long days of exploring and travelling, I couldn’t think of a better way to relax and unwind before jumping on the plane back home.

Is QC Termemilano worth the hype? Absolutely, yes. It is equipped with a whole host of themed treatment rooms, from the iconic tropical rain room, to a variety of fragranced saunas and plunge pools. What I think get’s massively overlooked are the beautifully maintained gardens and outdoor pools – where I spent most time. 

What I would say is avoid going during the weekends as I can imagine it reaches a tipping point where it gets so busy that the whole experience is no longer particularly enjoyable. I opted for the first morning slot during a weekday and would definitely recommend.

A beautiful space at QC Termemilano. 

Definitely suspect they were talking about the local cuisine. 

Rondanini Pietà by Michelangelo.

So there we have it, if you are looking for a perfect little mini-break comprising city and scenery then the Milan/Lake Como combination is a winning one if you ask me. Especially pre- or post- summer.