Lake Orta and Genoa

After collecting your luggage, pick up your hire car from Malpensa airport and enjoy the journey, cruising up through northern Italy, winding your way towards the captivating village of Orta San Giulio, which will be your base for the next 4 nights.

Many of the attractions are located in Orta San Giulio, so there's no need to rush today - instead, enjoy your morning sipping on a frothy cappuccino and indulging in a freshly served breakfast.

The afternoon can be spent wandering the old town and gazing upon the light hue of the cream splashed houses surrounding the central square of Piazza Motta. For an enhanced view of the lake, make the short climb up the unmissable Palazotto, a fresco-emblazoned structure, underpinned by several stilt like pillars and situated in the heart of the Piazza Motta. End the day with a visit to one of the many cosy trattorias nestled in amongst the cobbled streets; expect risotto to feature heavily on the menus as northern Italy's cuisine is renowned for its traditional rice based dishes.

Rise early this morning and meander towards the Piazza Motta to catch a glimpse of the sun rising over Isola San Giulio, a small island cultivated by history and occupied by the 12th century Basilica di San Giulio. Adorned with striking frescoes and enriched in history which resonates through the village, the Basilica is well worth the short 500 meter boat trip across from the mainland. 

Save some energy for a trip up the steep hill which leads to the enchanting Sacro Monte 'town'. Aligned with 20 small chapels and accompanied by spectacular views overlooking the lake, this hillside makes for a great spot to go trigger happy with your camera. 

This would be a good time to make the most out of your car hire and head up through the scenic eastern shore, visiting all the ancient settlements along the way like Pettenasco and Omegna.

Say goodbye to Lake Orta and make tracks for Genoa. After checking in to your centrally located hotel, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the narrow lanes and staring in awe at the Romanesque Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its interior dotted in complex frescoes and exterior lined in black and white symmetrical stripes. For your evening meal, head to Piazza de Ferrari, where there are plenty of restaurants abutting one another that you can choose from.

Today, combine a bit of history with a little bit of modernism. First, skirt your way around the cities port until you reach the modern Acquario di Genova, where you can spend a few hours admiring the marine life at one of Europe's largest aquariums. Then, turn your attention to yet another feature of the old town - the renowned street of Via Garibaldi. Its 16th century museums and renaissance buildings will give you a greater understanding of the city, and for all art enthusiasts, look no further than the Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Doria Tursi - all of which house art collections.

On your last full day in Genoa, why not take the opportunity to visit the Boccadasse quarter; here you will find a charming fishing village that provides a much needed break from the busy metropolis of Genoa.

Time to pack your bags and say arriverderci to your Italian adventure.