First edition in-depth coverage of this exceptional area of Italy.

Cadogan brings travelers Lombardy and the Italian Lakes in all their glory, from the powerhouse of Milan to the idyllic beauty and tranquility of Lake Garda and the Renaissance cities of the Lombard Plain.

The gardens of the Italian Lakes are a favourite destination for garden lovers and groups. The gardens around Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, in the far north of Italy, are admired throughout the world for their beauty and variety in a magnificent natural location. This book sets out to become the standard work on these gardens as there is nothing of this kind on the market at the moment. It will appeal both to the specialist and enthusiast preparing for a visit. The common factor for all these gardens is their setting in this landscape of exceptional scenery. Lake Como is a deep lake hemmed in like a fjord by towering mountains. Lake Maggiore has more the character of an inland sea, with ferries crossing to the famous island gardens for an afternoon in another world. Both lakes are lined with the towers, villas and grand hotels that speak of a complex history including key events in Italy's struggle to achieve nationhood, inspiration for a string of illustrious writers and composers, and a long line of distinguished visitors. The gardens include: Villa Melzi, Bellagio: an early 19th-century romantic park on the lake shore Villa Carlotta, Cadenabbia: a terraced 17th-century property with woodland Villa del Balbianello, Lenno: a famously picturesque loggia Villa D'Este, Cernobbio: a 16th-century cascade garden with royal connections Villa Cicogna Mozzoni, Bisuschio: an intact 16th-century villa garden Villa Della Porta Bozzolo, Casalzuigno: a rural baroque garden Isola Bella, Stresa: a well-known island garden Isola Madre, Stresa: an island retreat of flowers and birds Villa San Remigio, Pallanza: an Edwardian garden made by two lovers Villa Taranto, Pallanza: one of the world's great woodland gardens

"This lush guide, featuring more than 350 glorious photographs from National Geographic, showcases the best Italy has to offer from the perspective of two women who have spent their lives reveling in its unique joys."--Publisher's description.

An insider's guide to this magical region by a local resident. Milan is home to Da Vinci's Last Supper and the world's most famous opera house, La Scala. It was here that Verdi's Otello and Puccini's Madame Butterfly were first performed. Milan is one of the great centers for high fashion, and home to some of the world's oldest and most elegant shopping streets. And then there are the lakes. Lake Como's shoreline is a sheer cliff in many places, with the Alps soaring above. Beautiful Lake Garda and Lago Maggiore are ringed with villas, some dating from medieval and Roman times. This is a guide to all the unforgettable palaces and churches, the museums, the shops, the great restaurants and hotels.

Milan is Italy's acknowledged capital of fashion, finance and football. With great museums and superb restaurants, as well as its close proximity to bewitching lakes such as Como, Garda and Maggiore, this vibrant, forward-looking city can offer something to please everyone. Packed with information on the region's history, culture and cuisine, This Way Milan goes far beyond the Duomo to explore every facet of the city and its surroundings.

New release: The brand-new Michelin Must Sees Milan & Italian Lakes hits the area's highlights for a 24-hour visit, a weekend or longer. Stroll around Via Monte Napoleone in world-renowned fashion capital Milan, gazing at Italian designer storefronts; admire the Duomo’s architecture, both on the ground and from the roof; and finish the day with Brera’s nightlife. Explore the Italian Lakes area and marvel at the spectacular mountain backdrop and blue waters. This pocket-size guide helps you do it all with detailed maps, recommended hotels and restaurants and Must Sees star-rating system.