Monte Isola Itinerary
Things to do in Italy?
Review and Itinerary by Baldassarri Giuseppe from Italy
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Monte Isola is a beautiful island located in Lake Iseo, in the Lombardy region of Italy. It offers picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and delicious local cuisine and wines. To plan your tour of Monte Isola and make the most of your visit, here's a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Start your journey by traveling to Lake Iseo. The nearest airport is Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, which is well-connected to major European cities.
- From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to reach the town of Iseo, which is located on the shores of Lake Iseo.
- Once in Iseo, take a ferry to Monte Isola. Ferries operate regularly and provide a scenic journey across the lake.
- Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation. There are a few hotels and guesthouses available on the island, offering a peaceful and authentic experience.
- Spend the day exploring the island on foot or by bicycle. Monte Isola is a car-free zone, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. Visit the quaint villages, such as Peschiera Maraglio and Siviano, and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake.
Day 2: Local Attractions and Cuisine
- Begin your day by visiting the Sanctuary of Madonna della Ceriola, a hilltop church with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding areas.
- Take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Monte Isola. Admire the charming architecture and colorful houses.
- For lunch, try the local specialty of Monte Isola, "sardine alla griglia" (grilled sardines), which is a popular dish in the area. Pair it with a glass of locally produced Franciacorta sparkling wine.
- In the afternoon, you can take a boat trip to the nearby island of San Paolo, home to a historic monastery and beautiful gardens.
- Return to Monte Isola for dinner and savor more local delicacies, such as "polenta e salame" (polenta with salami) or "risotto al salto" (pan-fried risotto).
Day 3: Outdoor Activities and Departure
- If you enjoy hiking, Monte Isola offers several trails with stunning views. One popular option is the walk to the highest point of the island, known as the "Santuario della Madonna della Ceriola."
- Alternatively, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake at your own pace.
- Before leaving Monte Isola, make sure to visit the Peschiera Maraglio Fishing Museum, which showcases the island's fishing heritage.
- Afterward, take the ferry back to Iseo and spend some time exploring the town. Visit the historical center, stroll along the lakefront promenade, and perhaps enjoy a final meal at a local trattoria.
- From Iseo, you can easily reach Bergamo or other nearby cities by train or bus, depending on your onward travel plans.
Regarding the duration of your itinerary, two to three days should be sufficient to explore Monte Isola and its surroundings. This timeframe allows you to appreciate the island's beauty, savor the local cuisine, and engage in outdoor activities. However, you can always adjust the duration based on your personal preferences and the amount of time you have available.
Enjoy your tour of Monte Isola and have a wonderful time exploring this enchanting part of Italy!
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Tour of Monte Isola and itinerary to discover the attractions and local food and wine specialties to taste, how to get there, where to stay in Italy, How many days should the itinerary be?
