clehrman

Hi:
I'm trying to finalize a trip to Italy in Sept/Oct '06 and have decided our last nights will be on Lake Maggiore vs. Lake Como.

We have a 9:15 am flight out of Malpensa - which means we'd need to be there about 2 hours early.

Is it possible to get to the airport from Stresa that early or should we spend the night at a hotel near the airport. If so, I thought we'd get to the airport as late as possible so we can spend more time on the Lake. It just seems a shame to spend our last night in Italy at a hotel near the airport.

All opinions/information much appreciated.
Thanks!
Carol

bobthenavigator

Sure, that is doable if you get up real early. Allow :30 for car return. Be sure you have a good map of the MXP area.

clehrman

Bob - we probably won't have a car - will need to take the train or bus. Still doable?
Thanks,
Carol

nessundorma

There is a regular shuttle bus from Stresa to Malpensa that takes 50 minutes. For a 9:15 flight, you need to be at the airport at 7:15. Catching a 5:30 or 6 am bus will be fine.

You must ask your hotel in Stresa to call the bus company and reserve your seats. (If they have no passengers, the bus doesn't make the run.)

I believe the cost of the bus is 11 euros per person, but that may be out of date information.

The other possibility is, of course, to stay in Milano, which has both a bus and train service to Malpensa. However, the costs of hotels is Milano is pricey, and if you'd rather be at a lake, Stresa is the right option.

While the town of Stresa is not interesting (try Pappagallo's for the best food), the Borromean Islands are a treat and all 3 can be toured in a single afternoon, post-lunch.

clehrman

Thanks for the info. I think we'll definately stay in Stresa on our last night rather than at the airport in Milan.
Carol