Lake Como & Lugano Day Trip Review: Zurich by Car
Thinking about ditching Zurich for a day to explore the charm of Lake Como and Lugano? A private car trip might be just what you’re after. I decided to take this exact trip, so I thought I would give you the inside scoop on what to anticipate and if it is, very really, worth the splurge.
Why Choose a Private Car Trip?
Opting for a private car, well that is something, compared to trains or buses is basically like trading hiking boots for a pair of slippers. The biggest perk? Seriously, the flexibility. The driver is, just a little, waiting for you, catering to your timeline and interests. And there’s, kind of, also that added comfort of not having to squeeze your way with what I’d consider hordes of people or stick to someone else’s plan. Also, it becomes more personable and it’s definitely what you’d call a pampering way to soak in the landscapes as you move, too it’s almost, seamlessly from Switzerland into Italy.
What to Expect on the Drive
Leaving Zurich, it’s just a little, that the scenery goes into makeover mode. Picture rolling hills slowly morphing into jagged mountains and, alright, the occasional postcard-perfect village. Is that the drive to Lake Como winds around the Swiss Alps, so keep your camera ready. Very, you’ll see emerald-green valleys, so those are views that, really, beg to be photographed. The border crossing between Switzerland and Italy is usually pretty straightforward; however, so it’s very likely you might be asked for your passport, so have that on hand just in case. It’s pretty convenient to be in a car where the driver often manages most of that.
First Stop: Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como? Very, it lives up to the hype. I can confidently say this as someone who did this trip. Is that the town of Bellagio is frequently referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como” and for good reason, because its beauty is captivating. Get ready, though. Very, you’ll be wandering streets paved with cobblestones that have that old-timey feel and shops that have a range from handmade crafts to high fashion. One experience you might think about is taking a boat trip around the lake; well, it is worth it, that is if you fancy seeing villas like the Villa del Balbianello which looks familiar and I guess is the backdrop in flicks such as James Bond’s “Casino Royale”. Food-wise? Anyway, so you’re trying to have that local flavor? Look into savoring risotto or a seafood dish by the waterfront.
Next Up: Lugano, Switzerland (with an Italian flair!)
Lugano has kind of that unusual combo of Swiss structure and Italian charm, is that the place, that sits on Lake Lugano surrounded by mountains. I found it had that ambiance that was laid back that basically was calling out for you to leisurely hang around at an outside café, enjoying what you would call a gelato. Are you keen on seeing artwork? Very, so the Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC) has exhibits you probably will enjoy. Now, should you feel that you just are the outdoorsy type, maybe you will find Monte San Salvatore offers some trails to hike; I mean those showcase vistas that seem to go on forever.
What I Ate: Food Highlights
The grub gets two thumbs up. Over in Lake Como? Are you hoping for pasta? Try out local restaurants. A lot of spots will serve a really beautiful risotto. While you’re out, keep an eye out for local trattorias. They normally offer genuinely delightful bites. Moving over to Lugano, so the culinary vibes were a bit varied, as expected; here you can probably discover Swiss staples. Basically you just may wish to taste some cheese or maybe visit some local wineries in the area. Food? You know that it’s there. Eating while experiencing those cultures? Even better!
Is it Worth It? Things to consider
Right, so is this personal tour worth spending the extra money? Yeah, for me, I can certainly vouch. The cost, right, very, it’s clearly way more than, let’s say taking the train; yet, the smooth travel and being able to design things around your interests makes things way more easier. Should you value having ease when moving and personalized sights, this outing might just basically be perfect.
A Couple of tips for anyone taking this same tour:
- Layer up. Very, because the mountain regions tend to vary drastically in climate.
- Remember currency While Switzerland applies Swiss Francs, basically Italy relies on the Euro. Also, certain private ventures probably might prefer being settled by money.
- Cameras! Clearly, you have probably considered bringing them. So basically bring back every remarkable panorama on film!
With planning you just might find out that a day-long private travel will give you that brief yet satisfying taste on both Italian allure right along side Swiss style. In many aspects its worth every cent spent.