According to forum posts, popular destinations in Lombardy include Milan, Lake Como, Bergamo, and Varenna. Milan offers historical and architectural attractions, while Lake Como is known for its scenic beauty. Bergamo is highlighted for being less tourist-heavy and having historic charm.

Some travelers suggested spending a few days exploring Milan's museums and dining scene, then enjoying the natural landscapes of Lake Como and Varenna. A recommended itinerary is to start in Milan, proceed to Lake Como, and conclude in Bergamo or Varenna for a mix of urban and natural experiences.

For moving around Lombardy, travelers have called out the convenience of trains and ferries, particularly around Lake Como. The ferry services connect multiple towns along the lake, enabling easy day trips and explorations from a central base like Varenna or Bellagio.

Travelers should consider the time of year, as some locations like the Dolomites are not ideal for hiking in early spring due to muddy or icy trails, as per user experiences shared on the forum.

According to forum posts, popular day trips from Milan by train include cities like Florence, Bergamo, Brescia, Torino, Genoa, Parma, Mantua, Modena, and Ferrara. Varenna and Bellagio are also recommended for their scenic beauty. Travelers have emphasized that these destinations are within a one to two-hour train ride from Milan, making them convenient for day trips.

Some travelers specifically highlighted Mantua and Sabbioneta as wonderful places to visit, even suggesting that Mantua, despite being a two-hour journey, is worth the trip. Turin was also frequently mentioned as an unexpectedly beautiful and underrated city. Monza, just 15 minutes away, was recommended for a shorter trip.

A few posts also considered the weather, noting that while Genoa might be expected to be warmer in mid-January, the general consensus was that it remains cold throughout Italy during this time. This could influence the choice of destinations for those sensitive to colder climates.

According to forum posts, Hotel Olivedo in Varenna is a recommended accommodation, particularly for its proximity to the ferry docks and convenient access to other towns via lake transport. The hotel offers rooms with patios that provide scenic views of Lake Como, and it is also close to local dining options.

Travelers have called out Varenna as a highly recommended area to stay when visiting Lake Como. It is praised for its beautiful setting and good ferry connections, making it easier to explore the surrounding areas. The mid-lake area, including towns like Bellagio and Menaggio, is also favored for its central location and accessibility.