I made a trip to Rome in 1992, but I lived in the south of Germany for many years and I could drive through Switzerland (amazing drive with great views) and into Italy in about 6 hours. So I've been in the north a lot. We would stay in Como overnight once in awhile.
If you have the chance, make a trip to Interlaken in Switzerland. Each time I go there I never want to leave.
http://www.interlaken.ch/