Orta San Giulio
Things to do in Italy?
Review by Baldassarri Giuseppe
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Orta San Giulio is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Orta in the Piedmont region of Italy. It offers a charming atmosphere, historical landmarks, and delicious local cuisine. Here's a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:
Day 1: Arrival and Explore Orta San Giulio
- Arrive in Orta San Giulio by train or car. The nearest major airport is Milan Malpensa Airport, and from there, you can take a train to Orta-Miasino station.
- Check into your accommodation in Orta San Giulio. There are several hotels and bed and breakfast options available in the town.
- Start your exploration by strolling through the cobbled streets of the town center. Visit Piazza Motta, the main square, and admire the charming architecture.
- Take a boat tour to Isola San Giulio, a small island in Lake Orta. Explore the Basilica di San Giulio and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- In the evening, savor a traditional dinner at one of the local restaurants. Try regional specialties such as risotto, fresh lake fish, and local wines like Nebbiolo or Gattinara.
Day 2: Excursion to Sacro Monte and Wine Tasting
- After breakfast, take a short trip to the nearby Sacro Monte di Orta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred mountain features a series of chapels with beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis of Assisi.
- Return to Orta San Giulio for lunch and enjoy more local culinary delights. Try agnolotti, a type of pasta filled with meat or vegetables, and pair it with a glass of Barbera or Dolcetto wine.
- In the afternoon, indulge in a wine-tasting experience. Visit one of the wineries in the region and sample the renowned wines of Piedmont, such as Barolo, Barbaresco, or Gavi.
- In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Orta at sunset.
Day 3: Day Trip to Lake Maggiore and Arona
- On your third day, embark on a day trip to Lake Maggiore, which is located nearby. Take a boat from Orta San Giulio to the town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore.
- Explore the Borromean Islands, a group of small islands in Lake Maggiore. Visit Isola Bella with its stunning Baroque palace and gardens, and Isola dei Pescatori, a picturesque fishing village.
- Afterward, head to the town of Arona, located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore. Visit the colossal statue of San Carlo Borromeo and enjoy a walk along the lakeside promenade.
- Return to Orta San Giulio in the evening and have a farewell dinner at one of the local trattorias, enjoying the flavors of Piedmontese cuisine one last time.
As for the duration of your itinerary, I would recommend spending at least three days in Orta San Giulio and its surroundings. This will allow you to explore the town, take a day trip to Lake Maggiore, and have some time to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. However, if you have more time available, you can extend your stay to further explore the region and visit other nearby attractions.
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Tour of Orta San Giulio 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?