Your whirlwind mini break kicks off in Milan for a night – just enough time to experience the city's main must-sees. 

This magical metropolis nestled in Italy's northern Lombardy region is a financial, fashion and cultural hub – home to gems such as the Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent (where you can see Da Vinci's “Last Supper"). 

Staying at the four-star Doria Grand Hotel means that Milan's crème de la crème is right on your doorstep. With delicately furnished rooms sitting in amongst a peaceful tree-fringed avenue, the hotel is ideal if you're looking for somewhere quaint to relax for a night but still close enough to the centre to experience a slice of the action.

Afterwards, we'll whisk you off by train to the city of Como, sitting at the southern tip of Lake Como and known for its Gothic Cathedral. The waterfront promenade invites endless wandering while the scenic funicular railway is enough to fuel your wanderlust and get you thinking about your next adventure. 

Lake Como itself is a twinkling body of water, unparalleled in every sense and the perfect setting for a relaxing couple of days far from the hustle and bustle of back home. And if you're keen to explore more of the region's nature, the lakeside gardens of Villa Olmo are also well worth a visit. 

Meanwhile, for history buffs, learn about Como's silk industry at the Museo Didattico della Seta or traipse the Tempio Voltiano Museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, an Italian physicist. 

In Como, you'll stay at the three-star Borgo Antico Hotel, right in the city's historic core and within spitting distance from the sparkling lake. Staff will wax lyrical about all the magical sights and delights to see and give you advice on how to spend your three days if you haven't already decided.