By train to Milan and by car to Lago Maggiore

This is where your journey begins. At Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof you board the long-distance train heading south — the train journey itself is very much part of the holiday.

Milan's monumental station is a sight in itself, with its huge hall and marble finishes. From here, it's just a few minutes by metro to the centre.

A family-friendly hotel just a few minutes' walk from Milano Centrale, handy for arriving by train and setting off into the centre by metro. Quiet rooms, friendly service and a great base for two days in the city.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The huge Gothic cathedral is Milan's landmark, and walking across the rooftop terraces among the marble spires delights children too. On clear days, the view from the top stretches far across the city to the Alps.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

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The magnificent covered shopping arcade from the 19th century connects the Duomo and La Scala. A fun bit of fun for children is the tradition of spinning on the mosaic bull, said to bring good luck.

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This large science and technology museum displays models based on Leonardo da Vinci's inventions, submarines, trains and lots of hands-on stations. Ideal for a curious ten-year-old, an afternoon here flies by.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The mighty Renaissance fortress houses several museums and opens out at the back into the large Parco Sempione. The spacious courtyard and the park are a good chance to catch your breath in between.

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A covered market hall with stalls selling cheese, fish, fruit and small snacks, where the Milanese themselves do their shopping. A good place to try regional specialities and put together an Italian lunch.

The canal district with its waterside promenades, little shops and cafés is especially lively in the late afternoon. A relaxed stroll along the Naviglio Grande rounds off your city days nicely.

Right at Milano Centrale station there are several car hire desks, the most convenient way to pick up your car after your city days. Book the car in advance, which is usually noticeably cheaper and guarantees you a vehicle of the right size.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

This lively little town on the southwestern shore has a lovely lakeside promenade and a view across to the Rocca di Angera fortress opposite. A good spot for a first coffee by the lake and a quick lunch on the way north.

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A traditional, family-run establishment right on the water with its own swimming area and pool, ideal as a peaceful base on the western shore. From here you can easily reach the villages, islands and excursion destinations of the region by car.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

This elegant resort town with its Belle Époque villas is the starting point for boat trips to the Borromean Islands. You'll find parking on the edge of town, from where it's a short walk to the boat pier.

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On this small island stands a magnificent Baroque palace with a terraced garden full of white peacocks. Children love the playful grottoes and the many viewpoints over the lake.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

With its narrow lanes and waterside restaurants, this small fishing island is a charming spot for a late lunch of fresh lake fish. Here you can enjoy the island atmosphere entirely without the crowds.

This medieval village near the Swiss border has a pretty lakeside promenade and, on Saturdays, a large weekly market known well beyond the region. The narrow lanes are perfect for a stroll and an ice cream.

This flat, pebbly beach at the meeting point of river and lake is popular with families and has clean, mostly calm water for swimming. Sunbathing lawns, a kiosk and pedal boats make it a complete day out at the beach.

In the narrow rocky gorge near Cannobio, the Torrente Cannobino tumbles through emerald-green pools where you can swim on hot days. From the small bridge you get a lovely view of the church and the clear water.

This alpine garden above Stresa displays hundreds of mountain plants and offers a sweeping view over Lago Maggiore. An easy stop on the way to the summit that children enjoy too.

From the summit, at almost 1,500 metres, the view stretches across seven lakes to Monte Rosa on clear days. Up top there are hiking trails, an adventure park with a climbing course and a summer toboggan run, a highlight for active families.

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe, with watercourses, exotic plants and sweeping flower beds right by the lake. The enormous water lilies and the terraced garden delight young visitors too.

This quiet district of Verbania has a sunny lakeside promenade with palm trees, cafés and ice cream parlours. A good place for a relaxed lunch and one last stroll by the water.

In the afternoon, take one last dip in the cool lake water near the hotel. The small lakeside bathing spot is family-friendly and a lovely way to end your week by the lake.

In the morning you drive back from the lake to Milan and return the car at the station. Allow enough buffer time for the return and a possible fuel stop.

The train takes you back across the Alps to Stuttgart, with the journey itself passing by the window one last time. This is where your holiday ends.