Originally Posted by
ozflier
Sorry if adding to this thread complicates things but
it does relate to MXP and transit to Milan.
I will be arriving at MXP from Addis Ababa at 0550 on a monday - We really want to go on a tour of the Lakes and Cinque Terre but the only one that anywhere fits departs that same morning at 0830 from the Starhotels Ritz, Via Lazzaro Spallanzani 40, Milano .
The tour company cannot pick up at MXP but suggested that they organise a car to get us to the hotel .
The airline is Ethiopian and we will be in business if that helps.
I understand the potential issues associated with international travel but , bearing that in mind , is this option possible ?
many thanks
I would choose one or the other ; not both for one day and then you may not need a tour. Also, not sure which lake you mean probably Como but there are 3 completely different large lakes plus a few smaller ones in that region so if interested in a lake you would have to select one of them.
Can take a train to either location, would personally opt for Cinque Terre over any of the Lakes for a day trip location.
Cinque Terre hence the name is 5 separate towns. The best way to get around once you reach the first town is the local train, short trips between each town. A guide could drive you to one, but driving to more than 1 town makes zero sense even with a private driver it would be slower than the train. I really don't see a guide being of much assistance here unless you want to pay for a personalized porter to walk each step with you all day.
In season a ferry also runs to 4 of the towns which would be slower but could mix in for change of pace. You can also hike between some of the towns, have to check into the most recent trail updates as some of the paths always seem to be closed due a previous landslide.
For a day trip, I would personally train to Riomaggiore, the first town and then make my way to the others likely skipping the last Monterosso el Mare in the interest of time, as that is the largest of the towns. Each of the other 4 towns is tiny and can walk through each fairly quickly enjoying the views, stopping for a drink or bite.
Check out the Milan train schedules and compare the times of the train vs. what google maps says the drive times are like to see if a driver would be even worth it time wise, not even factoring in the cost.
You may need to book the train ticket from Milan to La Spieza. From La Speiza the local train that goes to each of the 5 towns starts.