north italy tourist map

Map of Northern Italy

Need a map of northern Italy put together by an expert? Well, you’re in the right place!

The northern Italy map below shows the:

• Lakes in northern Italy
• Northern Italy Cities
• Airports in northern Italy, and
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in northern Italy.

By using this north Italy map, you can be strategic about how you plan your northern Italy itinerary!

A Detailed Map of Northern Italy

How to use this map of northern Italy: Click any icon on the map to see more information about each place. You can select or de-select layers to add or remove the places from your map view by clicking on the little box in the top left corner of the map. For example, if you only want a map of northern Italy lakes, de-select the other layers to remove everything but the lakes. If you click the star next to the title of the map, it will get added to your Google Maps account. Simply, open Google Maps, click on the menu button, and go to “Your Places.” If you select Maps, you’ll find this map on your list.

Northern Italy FAQs

Northern Italy has many beautiful cities to explore. The main cities are Milan , Venice, Turin (Torino), and Bologna. However, you’ll also find the cities of Bergamo, Genoa, Trieste, Modena, Parma, Trento, Verona, Brescia, Cremona, Mantua, Bolzano, Vicenza, Padua, Ferrara, Ravenna, Treviso, Asti, Udine, Pavia, Varese, and Rovereto.

Northern Italy is a large area made of 8 different regions. If you plan to explore several different regions in northern Italy, it’s best to have multiple bases to maximize your time. However, if you plan to stay within a particular area, it’s easy to arrange your northern Italy trip around a single base. For example, you could stay in Bologna and day trip to places like Milan, Parma, Modena, Ferrara, Ravenna, Verona, and Venice. You could even take the train into central Italy to visit Florence.

There are 8 regions in northern Italy . These regions are Piedmont , Lombardy, the Aosta Valley, Liguria , Emilia Romagna, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige , and Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

There truly is no bad time to plan northern Italy travel ! It just depends on what you want to do. Cultural sightseeing and foodie experiences are great any month of the year. Northern Italy has some of the best skiing in all of Europe so if you’re after winter sports visit between November and March. The spring and fall are perfect months for sightseeing, road-tripping, getting outdoors, strolling comfortably through popular cities, wine tasting, and even enjoying northern Italy’s stunning coastline from the Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera to the Adriatic beaches near Rimini. Summers are the busiest, hottest (but less so than points in southern Italy), and most expensive. Consider heading to the Dolomites or the Aosta Valley for more comfortable mountain air or relaxing seaside along the Mediterranean.

Northern Italy’s main international airports, particularly for travelers coming from the U.S. and Canada are Milan Malpensa Airport and Venice Marco Polo Airport. There are also several other airports in northern Italy. It’s possible to fly into Bergamo, Milan Linate, Turin, Genoa, Bologna, Treviso, Verona, Trieste, and Rimini. Numerous airlines fly into these airports from points across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

So, what are your questions about the places on the map of northern Italy?

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Top Destinations in Northern Italy

From Alpine mountains and glacial lakes to the sunny shorelines of the Riviera and Adriatic, the geographical diversity of Northern Italy is its most striking characteristic. Nestled within the cities and landscapes of the region are a host of culinary pleasures and cultural treasures as well, including Leonardo de Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper.”

Encompassing Italy’s wealthiest provinces, Northern Italy is a premier destination when it comes to luxury resorts and upscale shopping too. Whether sampling fine wine and dining on world-class cuisine or exploring ancient castles, cathedrals and churches, the region offers all the memorable travel experiences visitors want from a holiday in Italy.

Map of Northern Italy

10. Bologna [SEE MAP]

Called “La Rossa” for its red brick buildings and tile roofs, Bologna is the capital and largest city in Northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. It’s also an architecture lover’s dream. Although Bologna is best known for its medieval towers and extensive porticoes, thanks to extensive restoration, Bologna’s architecture includes Etruscan and Roman structures as well.

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna also demands a visit. It’s the world’s oldest institution of higher learning and still enrolls thousands of students each year. No trip to Bologna is complete without a visit to Piazza Maggiore where the still-unfinished façade of the Basilica of San Petronio makes its beautiful interiors appear all the more remarkable.

9. Gran Paradiso National Park [SEE MAP]

One of Europe’s largest and best preserved wilderness areas, Gran Paradiso National Park is named for Italy’s highest peak, Gran Paradiso, the only mountain in the Alps that lies entirely within the country’s boundaries.

The area was designated Italy’s first national park in 1920, in part to protect the dwindling population of ibex, a mountain goat best known for horns that can grow up to 3 feet long. The park is a hiker’s paradise in late spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom, and it’s a great holiday destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoe hikes during the winter.

8. Bergamo [SEE MAP]

Nestled against the foothills of the towering Bergamese Alps, Bergamo is comprised of two distinct cities. The Città Alta, or upper city, is a medieval town surrounded by 16th-century walls while the lower section known as Città Bassa is a relatively modern city.

Most visitors head straight to the old town to explore the beautifully preserved Medieval and Renaissance architecture and picturesque piazzas, including the ornate Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the final resting place of the composer Gaetano Donizetti. With its extensive collection of paintings by Raphael, Botticelli and Canaletto, the Accademia Carrara is a can’t-miss attraction too.

7. Verona [SEE MAP]

Best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet,” Verona is a picturesque city filled with Roman ruins, Renaissance palaces and medieval buildings. Located between Milan and Venice, the city receives a bit less attention from travelers than its more celebrated neighbors but not for lack of attractions .

Verona offers visitors the chance to enjoy all of the charms of an ancient Italian city without constantly battling crowds. Although the first stop for many visitors is “Juliet’s House” with its recently added balcony, it’s important to remember that Romeo and Juliet were characters from fiction, not reality.

6. Genoa [SEE MAP]

Sometimes overshadowed by the popularity of other Italian cities like Rome and Venice, Genoa nevertheless is one of Italy’s true hidden gems. As the capital city of the Liguria region on the northwest coast of Italy, Genoa is most associated as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

The city’s shining crown is its historic center, which features narrow, winding streets that reveal surprising gems at every turn like marvelous architecture and artistic treasures. At the base of the city center is the historic seaport. Docked with cruise liners, yachts and fishing boats, Genoa’s seaport today sports a trendy renovation of new features such as a bustling marina, waterfront bars and the Aquarium of Genoa.

5. Milan [SEE MAP]

Nearly destroyed from heavy bombing during WWII, Milan has since reconstructed and now shines as the country’s financial and fashion capital. Milan’s most famous site is the Santa Maria della Grazie where da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” is on display. The 14th-century Sforzesco Castle houses the exhibits of the Museo d’Arte Antica, which includes Michelangelo’s “Pietà Rondanini.”

Decked out in sumptuous red and gold, the 18th-century La Scala opera house is a must-see attraction too, as is the Duomo, known as one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals. When it comes to shopping, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the place to go for the best of Italy’s haute couture designs.

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

4. Portofino [SEE MAP]

With its picture-perfect harbor, verdant scenery and haphazard rows of hilltop and waterfront homes, Portofino is one of the prettiest towns on the Italian Riviera. Located just a short drive south of Genoa, the little village has been a popular day-trip destination for centuries.

It’s a favorite stopping point for cruises along the Italian Riviera too, and the cluster of yachts floating in the harbor only adds to Portofino’s visual appeal. Short climbs up the hillside to the medieval Castello Brown, the historic Church of San Giorgio or the lighthouse at Punta Portofino offer photographic views of the charming city.

3. Lake Garda [SEE MAP]

The largest of the glacial lakes of the Lombardy province, Lake Garda is bordered by Alpine peaks to the north and flat plains to the south. Gardens, orchards and forests rim the shore, providing a scenic backdrop for visitors seeking rest and recreation .

The southernmost town of Sirmione features natural hot springs, a small castle and the Grotte di Catullo, the largest collection of Roman ruins in Northern Italy. On the northern shore of lake lies Riva del Garda, which is the destination of choice for visitors interested in outdoor activities, including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and swimming.

2. Cinque Terre [SEE MAP]

Cinque Terre is undeniably one of the most beautiful areas of Italy. A visit to just one of the five villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso and Corniglia will confirm this.

Made to grace picture postcards, the towns are built on steep hills and atop high cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. It doesn’t get much more scenic than this. Most towns are reachable only by train. Comfortable walking shoes are a must since cars aren’t allowed in the older sections of these towns.

1. Venice [SEE MAP]

The perfect destination for a romantic getaway, Venice is a city where canals replace roads and buildings rise up out of the Adriatic Sea as if by magic. There’s a timeless quality to Venice that has attracted and engaged travelers for hundreds of years.

When not enjoying the enchanting experience of being serenaded while gliding down a canal on a gondola, visitors flock to the sidewalk cafés of St. Mark’s Square. Inside the Basilica of San Marco lies a treasure trove of jewel-encrusted altarpieces, icons and holy relics, including the marble-canopied tomb of St. Mark.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

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Reader interactions.

July 30, 2019 at 8:17 pm

Would you recommend visiting these destinations in February?

July 27, 2019 at 11:37 am

why doesn’t anyone list CORTINA DE AMPEZZO? stunningly beautiful in summer or winter and only an hour and a half from Venice.

November 8, 2016 at 11:13 pm

Thank you. Excellent information on Northern Italy!

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World Map » Italy » Map Of Northern Italy

Map of Northern Italy

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10 Reasons to Visit Northern Italy – The Land of Venice, the Dolomites, the Italian Lakes, and Exceedingly Delicious Food (With Map and Practical Tips)

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 15th March 2024

Categories Emilia-Romagna , Friuli Venezia Giulia , Lombardy , Travelling in Italy , Trentino , Veneto

Northern Italy is a great place to visit either by yourself or with your family and friends.

No matter what you are after – a city break, a relaxing holiday, or an active vacation – you are bound to find it here and so much more – from history and art to delicious food, a myriad of sports activities, and lively events..

Stretching across the top of the Italian boot, Northern Italy is made of eight regions. From west to east, they are Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy , Emilia-Romagna , Trentino-South Tyrol , Veneto , and Friuli Venezia Giulia .

Many of Italy’s most famous cities are in the country’s north. Among them are Venice , Milan , Verona , Turin, Trieste, Genoa, and Bologna .

Also in the north of Italy, you can visit the always very popular and very picturesque Cinque Terre, Lago di Garda which is Italy’s largest lake, Lago di Como which is Italy’s most famous lake, and the Dolomites – a mighty mountain range which is all the rage for its stunning landscapes and proud craggy peaks.

And yet, that’s not all! Rich in hidden gems, culinary delights, and a staggering number of unique landmarks, visiting Italy’s north is a recipe for many wonderful adventures. So, to inspire you to put it on your travel list, today, I will give you ten reasons that make Northern Italy a must-see.

All the detailed information in this blog post is based on my countless trips to Northern Italy over the last almost 20 years. Six of them I actually spent living in Vicenza – a small Northern Italian city halfway between Venice and Verona. Everything I write about herewith is firsthand tried and tested. Now, I am only too happy to pass the word along.

To help your travel planning, I have included a map showing the exact location of Northern Italy in Europe. It also outlines the eight Italian regions that are part of it. Practical tips are peppered throughout the text. I hope that the detailed information, the map, the tips, and the curious details I share with you below will galvanise you to experience Italy’s north for yourself as soon as possible.

Have a look!

Map of northern italy with the 8 northern italian regions and their capitals.

First things first! Let’s start by pinpointing on the map the exact location of Northern Italy and the eight regions it comprises. As you can see Northern Italy spreads across the upper portion of the Italian peninsula and it stands between its calf and the European countries of France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia.

The eight Northern Italian regions are outlined with a different colour each. Their capitals are pinned with blue stars. Here they are:

Aosta Valley (green outline) – known for its mountainous landscapes and ski resorts it has the city of Aosta at its helm.

Piedmont (pink outline) – the land of truffles, hazelnuts, and chocolate has the royal city of Turin as its capital.

Liguria (purple outline) – long, thin, and curved, it’s captained by Genoa and attracts millions of visitors to its cluster of five picturesque villages known as Cinque Terre.

Lombardy (grey outline) – Italy’s most prosperous region is ruled over by the world’s fashion capital Milan.

Emilia-Romagna (blue outline) – the land of delicious food and red-brick buildings is headlined by the city of Bologna with Italy’s oldest University at its heart.

Trentino-South Tyrol (in Italian, Trentino-Alto Adige ) (lilac outline) – with strong Tyrolean influences, majestic nature, hundreds of lakes , and autonomous status, this region has two provincial capitals – Trento and Bolzano.

Veneto (red outline) – with well-developed industry and yet countless corners of pristine nature, this Northern Italian region is known predominantly for its capital Venice and hides many gems like Verona , Padua , and Vicenza in its bosom of history and art.

Friuli Venezia Giulia (orange outline) – the often overlooked northeasternmost corner of Italy lately has been attracting universal acclaim on account of its capital Trieste, coffee traditions, and locally produced wines.

How to Use This Map of Northern Italy?

You can use this map of Northern Italy just like any other Google map. You can zoom in and out, or click on the last icon in the top right corner to open the map in a separate tab.

A click on the first icon in the top left corner will open a list with all destinations – both the eight Northern Italian regions and their respective capitals – pinned to the map. Click on any destination to see its coordinates as well as links to accommodation options and (where available) additional information.

You can also use this map to calculate distances and directions from any point in Italy (or abroad) to the eight Northern Italian regions and their many points of interest. If you want, you can share this map of Italy’s north on social media, too.

10 Reasons to Visit Northern Italy – The Land of Venice, the Dolomites, the Italian Lakes, and Exceedingly Delicious Food

1. Northern Italy’s Many Must-See Destinations

Many of Italy’s most famous destinations are in the northern portion of the country. They are known worldwide and millions of people dream to see them at least once in their lives.

From historic cities to picturesque villages , from stunning landforms to charming lakes, Northern Italy is blessed with many of Europe’s and the world’s most coveted spots. Here they are in a tiny nutshell:

• Historic cities: Venice , Milan , Verona , Bologna , Genoa, Turin, and Trieste;
• Picturesque Villages and Towns: Cinque Terre, Bellagio , Bassano del Grappa , Treviso , and Sirmione ;
• Stunning Landforms: the Alps, the northern portion of the Apennines, the Dolomites, dozens of islands in the Venetian Lagoon;
• Charming Lakes: Garda , Como , Maggiore, and Orta form the quartet of the greatest Italian lakes.

With short travel distances and well-organised public and road transport, many of these worldwide famous destinations in Northern Italy can be visited within the span of the same Italian holiday.

They offer a great mix of history, culture, nature, and art. A visit to them is always a good idea and something that leaves travel memories to last a lifetime.

Practical Tips:

Millions of people flock each year to Northern Italy’s most famous destinations. The best time to visit them is, generally speaking, during the shoulder seasons, i.e. April-May and September-October. This is when the temperatures are very pleasant, the sun usually shines bright, and the tourist crowds are just starting to swell or are already past their most voluminous.

The Christmas season is another great window to visit Northern Italy and it’s usually overlooked by the mass tourists. This is when heartfelt celebrations and festive markets are taking place all over the eight Northern Italian regions giving you a chance to experience authentic Nativity traditions .

When visiting famous landmarks and sights in Northern Italy, it’s always a good idea to book your tickets in advance. This way you will avoid queuing on the day and you won’t be disappointed in case all tickets are sold out for the time slot you are interested in. I usually book in advance through Tiqets and Viator – two large platforms specialised in selling tickets for and guided tours of worldwide famous attractions and museums.

Learn More:

Best Cities in Northern Italy , Venice Landmarks , Best Towns on Lake Garda , Travel Guide for Lake Como

2. Northern Italy’s Deep Layers of History and Art

Northern Italy is a must-see corner of Europe if you have an interest in history and art.

Millennia ago, its territory was inhabited by prehistoric tribes many of which had advanced cultures with their own writing systems and intricate crafts. A case in point is the Paleovenetic Este Culture which has left us complex ceramic and metal artifacts. A visit to the National Atestino Museum in the small town of Este in the Northern Italian region of Veneto is an incredible experience if you want to delve deeper into it. Such museums – rich in priceless artifacts and throwing light onto advanced prehistoric cultures – are dotted all over Italy’s north.

When the territory of Northern Italy became part of the Roman Empire, the ancient Romans built majestic public and private buildings, religious temples, and many important roads. Arena di Verona – an imposing amphitheatre that nowadays serves as an exquisite opera and concert venue – is one of the largest surviving Roman structures in the world. A short trip by train away, you also have the monumental ruins of Roman villas on Lake Garda and of Roman temples, a theatre, and private dwellings in the city of Brescia .

Later on, the relations and tensions between the Western and the Eastern Roman Empires also left their imprint on the north of Italy. The mosaic masterpieces of Ravenna and the Byzantine-inspired architecture of Venice are direct references to this historic period.

During the High Middle Ages, Northern Italy was split between many warring factions and dynasties. They built mighty fortresses and castles, several of which still stand and can be visited nowadays. The medieval castles around Lake Garda – many of which were erected by Verona’s Scaliger dynasty – are among Europe’s most impressive medieval fortifications.

The High Middle Ages is also when the first two Universities were founded in Italy. First in Bologna in 1088 and then in Padua in 1222. Today, their historic buildings are open for visits. It’s one of the highlights of a trip to Italy’s north.

The Renaissance tightly embraced Northern Italy. The Renaissance cities of Venice , Vicenza , Mantua , and Ferrara flourished. Priceless works of art were created by the artists of the local branches of the Italian Renaissance with the Venetian School particularly well known. A cultural and scientific exchange between the city-states of Northern Italy and the cities and the states of Northern Europe propelled forward the development of art, medicine, and science.

And then the new history of Italy from its Unification in the 19th century throughout the two World Wars to our days makes for yet another fascinating topic to explore during your visit to the eight Northern Italian regions.

Travel off the beaten path to fully experience the wonders of Northern Italy’s history and art. Everyone wants to see seminal works of art like Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper in Milan but there are so many more masterpieces here that are not necessarily in a major landmark or museum. Explore the small Northern Italian towns, enter every church that you come across, and visit small, local museums and sights.

Soon, you will notice how your understanding of Italy’s art and culture grows and deepens, how your appreciation for a work of art doesn’t depend anymore simply on name recognition. We are too used to narrowing history and art down to a couple of dozens of events and names. One of the best things about travel in Northern Italy is that it helps you look beyond these limitations and experience things on a deeper level.

Italy’s Historic Universities , Venice for Art Lovers , Looking Slowly in Italy

3. Northern Italy’s Well-Organised Transport System

Northern Italy is incredibly easy to get around. Served by almost a dozen major airports , the northern strip of the country is quick to reach from anywhere in Europe and the world.

Once arrived, you can then rely on a well-organised transport system to take you anywhere by railway and/or road – from the main tourist magnets like Venice and Cinque Terre to historic towns like Ravenna , Cittadella , and Palmanova .

High-speed trains – Frecciarossa , Frecciabianca , Frecciargento , and ItaloTreno – connect Northern Italy’s main cities. A major railway line runs from Turin (the capital of Piedmont) in the northwest to Venice (the capital of Veneto ) and Trieste (the capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia) in the northeast. High-speed railway services also connect Italy’s north to the rest of the country.

As such, you can reach Venice from Milan in only two and a half hours, Verona from Venice in only an hour and a quarter, Genoa from Milan in an hour and a half, and Verona from Bologna in less than an hour.

Fast regional trains (in Italian, treno regionale veloce ) connect Northern Italy’s smaller cities and towns to the major destinations here, too. Inexpensive and running dozens of times throughout the day, they offer countless opportunities for exciting explorations and day trips .

A network of buses provides an easy-to-use and generally cheap public transport within the Northern Italian cities and towns. It also connects them to the local villages, beaches, mountains, and landmarks.

Plus, the historic centres of the Northern Italian cities and towns are usually very walkable. Just bring your comfiest pair of shoes and you can easily get from sight to sight simply by walking around.

If you prefer to travel by car, then you are also in luck. Modern motorways stretch across the north of Italy providing easy access to anywhere you may want to go.

Some of the most important ones are:

• Autostrada A4 ( also known as Serenissima ) – it connects Turin and Trieste via Milan, Brescia , Lake Garda , Verona , Vicenza , Padua , and Venice ;
• Autostrada A7 ( also known as Serravalle ) – it connects Milan to Genoa;
• Autostrada A13 ( also known as Euganea ) – it connects Bologna to Padua ; and
• Autostrada A21 ( also known as dei Vini ) – it connects Turin to Brescia .

This  helpful website  will give you an estimate of how much the tolls are going to cost. Alternatively, you can use Northern Italy’s network of provincial and regional roads which are free to drive on. 

Beyond trains, buses, and cars, in Northern Italy, you can also catch a ferry (for example, on the Northern Italian lakes), a vaporetto (water bus) and a gondola in Venice , a tram in Padua , a metro in Brescia , Genoa, and Milan. Transport options truly abound.

To check train times and book train tickets in advance, I find the following three websites very useful:  Omio ,  ItaloTreno , and  TrenItalia .

To check ferry timetables for Lake Garda , Lake Como , and Lake Maggiore, have a look at the official ferry website of Navigazione Laghi . It has an English interface and provides you with useful details about the different ferry lines that crisscross Northern Italy’s greatest lakes and the lakefront towns they connect.

Finally, if you are researching transfer options from Northern Italy’s major airports, have a look at the blog posts linked below. Alternatively, you can use a travel search engine like Viator which can show you available airport transfers by car, taxi, and bus for different cities and destinations in Italy’s north.

Airports: Major Airports in Northern Italy , Airports for Venice , Airports for Verona , Airports for Lake Como , Airports for Lake Garda

Day Trips: Day Trips in Italy , Day Trips from Venice , Day Trips from Verona , Day Trips from Padua

Venice to Padua , Venice to Verona , Venice to Lake Garda , Venice to Milan

Milan to Venice , Milan to Verona , Milan to Lake Garda , Milan to Lake Como

Verona to Lake Garda , Verona to Milan , Verona to Venice

Bologna to Verona , Bologna to Lake Garda , Bologna to Venice , Florence to Venice

4. Northern Italy’s Sparkling Beaches and Majestic Mountains

Northern Italy is blessed with some of the best beaches and mountains on this side of Europe. No matter what you are after – a hiking holiday in the hills or a relaxing stay by the sea, there are plenty of options to choose from.

In summer you are never too far away from a sparkling beach in this corner of Italy. It could be the gorgeous Ligurian beaches or the sandy beaches on the Adriatic coast with their endless lines of colourful umbrellas and sun loungers. It could be a pebbly lake beach or a wild beach where the locals congregate to cool off during the hottest days of July and August.

At the same time, Northern Italy’s mountains – the Alps, the Dolomites, and the northern portion of the Apennines – provide great opportunities to relax and to keep active. Right in the bosom of nature, you can take it easy with light walks and panoramic views or engage in many different sports – from paragliding in summer to snowboarding in winter.

Even better, in Northern Italy, you can combine beach and mountain within the same holiday. With short travel distances and a great variety of nature, you can spend time sunning yourself by the water and then hiking in the hills or vice-versa.

For example, if you book a summer vacation on the beaches of Jesolo near Venice, you can then enjoy a day trip to the Dolomites . Or, if you head to the beaches of Rimini, just down the road you can explore the hilltop Republic of San Marino . And if you stay at Lake Garda , Lake Como , or Lake Caldonazzo , you can literally do beach and mountain on the same day.

Even if you visit Northern Italy during the cold season, you can still have the best of both worlds – water and heights. Dozens of spa resorts here have amazing swimming pools fed by hot natural springs. Often, these spa resorts or even spa towns are next door to hilly groups. A case in point are the Euganean Hills in the Northern Italian region of Veneto . A short distance away from Padua and Venice, you can spend time here taking advantage of the warm natural springs and then exploring the lush hills.

If beaches and mountains are on your travel list for Northern Italy, don’t forget to bring suncream , insect repellent , adequate shoes, and appropriate clothing. In summer, the sun is very strong and mosquitoes can be relentless. Protecting your skin can be the difference between a great and a miserable holiday.

Good, comfortable shoes with a grip are paramount if you go hiking. Make sure that you research well the local trails before heading out. Often, people are seduced by the idea of taking photos of a beautiful place and then they try to hike to it without suitable shoes and gear. Always put safety first and pick a hike according to your abilities. Don’t bring small children to trails that are not suitable for them.

There are so many wonderful and beautiful corners to explore in the mountains and hilly groups of Northern Italy that there is no need to fixate on a particular spot just because it is popular on Instagram. Next door to it there will be dozens of other stunning locations which may not require a great effort or specialist equipment to reach.

Beaches in Northern Italy: Top Tips for Lake Garda Beaches , 3 Unmissable Lake Garda Beaches , Giamaica Beach , Beaches Near Venice

Easy Hikes in the Dolomites: Paneveggio – The Violins’ Forest , Cadini del Brenton and Cascate della Soffia , Grotta Azzurra di Mel

Easy Hikes around Lake Garda: Tibetan Bridge , Rocca di Garda , Campo di Brenzone , Punta di San Vigilio , Madonna della Corona

Easy Hike in the Little Dolomites: The Path of the Big Trees

5. Northern Italy’s Gorgeous Lakes

The great quartet of Italian lakes – Garda , Como , Maggiore, and Orta – sparkles brightly in the crown of Northern Italy.

With cute lakefront towns, splendid panoramic views, unique local traditions, and dozens of opportunities to sightsee and keep active, these four Northern Italian lakes attract millions of visitors each year. The best bit is that they are close to several important cities in the north of Italy and can be visited just for the day or for a longer holiday when you crave contact with nature.

As such, Milan is the gateway to Lake Como. Verona is next door to Lake Garda. Bologna and Venice are a train ride away from Lake Garda, too. Just make sure that you take the high-speed train!

You don’t have to head to the largest lakes to have a wonderful lake time in Northern Italy, though. There are hundreds of other lakes here – both big and small. From Lake Iseo which became famous for The Floating Piers installation by the late artist Christo to the surprisingly warm Lake Caldonazzo which is lovely to swim in, the choice truly is staggering.

I particularly like the tiny Lake Tenno. It has bright turquoise waters and takes about an hour to circumnavigate on foot. You will find it in the autonomous Northern Italian province of Trentino which in total has 297 lakes !

Italy’s largest and best theme parks are dotted around the southern shore of Lake Garda. Among them are Gardaland , Movieland the Hollywood Park , and Parco Cavour . Many waterparks, thermal parks, and garden parks are also here.

Northern Italy’s lakes, in general, are great for water sports, too. Lake Garda offers fantastic conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. There are many beaches on its shores, too.

Swimming and water sports, however, are forbidden at some lakes here though. A case in point is the very famous Lake Sorapis. It can be reached only via a long, arduous hike in the Dolomites. It’s incredibly cold and has a stunning milky blue colour. Swimming and dipping here are not allowed to protect the lake’s fragile ecosystem.

If you visit a Northern Italian lake where sports and swimming are not allowed, please, respect the restrictions. They are in place to protect both nature and human lives. Plus, steep fines are in place to deter infringers.

Lake Garda: Best Sights , Best Towns , How to Navigate the Lake , Theme Parks , Beach Tips , Best Beaches , Giamaica Beach , Desenzano del Garda , Lazise , Malcesine , Riva del Garda , Torri del Benaco , Punta di San Vigilio , Campo di Brenzone

Lake Como: Travel Guide , Best Towns , Best Things to Do , How to Navigate the Lake , Best Airports , Milan to Lake Como , The Beauty of the Lake , Nesso

Other Lakes in Northern Italy: Lakes in Trentino , Lakes in Veneto

6. Northern Italy’s So Many Hidden Gems

This is my favourite thing about Northern Italy as a travel destination. There is so much to do and see here off the beaten track. It’s absolutely amazing and very inspiring!

While everyone has heard of Venice and Milan, Verona and Bologna, Lake Como and Lake Garda, Cinque Terre and the Dolomites, there are hundreds more corners to explore and fall in love with in the north of Italy. Not to mention the dozens of incredibly beautiful historic villages, the many nature reserves, Italy’s longest river – Po, Italy’s shortest river – Aril , the province of Trentino with its 297 lakes, and so much more.

If you need more examples, here, in alphabetical order, are five of my favourite ones:

Brescia – halfway between Milan and Verona, this must be Northern Italy’s most underrated city. With rich layers of history that span 3,200 years, come here for monumental Roman ruins, a hilltop medieval castle, and splendid squares with Renaissance and Modernist architecture.

Chioggia – Spread on a handful of small islands on the southern edge of the Venetian Lagoon, this picturesque town was once a rival of Venice. Free of maddening crowds and with amazing beaches next door, the local dishes based on fresh seafood make Chioggia a must-see yet little-known place.

Ferrara – one of Italy’s most important Renaissance destinations, this small city has a picture-perfect historic centre and an imposing castle surrounded by a deep moat.

Lake Iseo – halfway between Lake Garda and Lake Como, this is a spectacular lake surrounded by mighty mountains and with shores dotted by cute little towns. Hosting one of Europe’s largest lake islands – the picturesque Monte Isola – Lake Iseo is also where you will find pristine nature and whimsical landforms. The Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve with its white waterlilies and the Zone Pyramids are two of them.

Val Camonica – a large valley in the Central Alps, here you can see one of the world’s largest collections of prehistoric rock drawings. This was Italy’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can easily reach it from Brescia , Verona , and Milan.

Northern Italy has hundreds of little-known gems. The best bit is that here you don’t even need to dig deep or travel far to come across wonderful places that are rich in history, architecture, nature, and art.

One of the easiest and quickest ways to discover unique and inspiring destinations in Northern Italy is to head to its medieval villages and walled towns. With a history that spans many centuries, often commanding beautiful panoramic views, and preserving impressive defensive walls and castles, they are a delight to explore and spend time at.

These are also places where you will come in touch with ancient traditions and where you can savour delicious local foods.

I wholeheartedly recommend the walled town of Cittadella , the medieval hamlet of Borghetto sul Mincio , and smaller cities and towns like Ravenna , Comacchio , Vicenza , Este , and Montagnana . Each one of them – small, compact, and easy to explore on foot – has a tremendous richness of architecture, history, and art. Yet, they are little known by the tourist masses and you can enjoy their beauty in peace.

Small Towns in Veneto , Cities and Towns in Lombardy , Adventures in Veneto , Villages in Emilia-Romagna , Villages in Friuli Venezia Giulia , Villages in Veneto , Colourful Places in Veneto , Mysterious Places in Veneto

7. Northern Italy’s Musical Heritage

Northern Italy also has lots to offer to those who love music and want to dedicate time to extraordinary music experiences.

Some of the world’s most lavish historic opera theatres are here. From La Scala in Milan to La Fenice in Venice, you can watch splendid performances in lavish surroundings. The world’s most famous opera festival takes place every summer in the ancient Roman Arena in Verona. Listening to world-class singers whilst sitting under a starry sky on 2,000 years old stone benches is a memory that stays with you forever.

Museums dedicated to musical instruments and their history are also dotted all over Northern Italy. The most famous of them all must be the Violin Museum in Cremona. This small Northern Italian city is also where you can see historic luthier workshops where violins and other string instruments have been made by hand for decades and centuries.

You can get closer to music in many different ways in Northern Italy. Music festivals take place here regularly all throughout the year. There is something for everyone – from classical performances to pop, rock, and alternative concerts by some of the greatest names in today’s music.

In Northern Italy, you can also visit the historic homes of some of the world’s greatest composers and singers. For example, Giuseppe Verdi’s birth house near the city of Parma in the region of Emilia-Romagna. A short drive away is the elegant Villa Verdi where the composer spent the last years of his life. Near Modena, also in Emilia-Romagna, you can visit the house museum of the great Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti.

And when you crave peace and quiet, you can still be close to music in Northern Italy. A great experience, for example, is to visit the Violins Forest in the Dolomites. For centuries, this lush, deep forest has been providing the wood for prized instruments. They say that even Stradivari would get the wood for his famous violins from here.

Attending a concert or a performance in Northern Italy’s lavish opera houses is a great experience. Alternatively, you can visit them during the day when they open their doors to be explored just like museums. Milan’s La Scala and Venice’s La Fenice are particularly beautiful. And, usually, you can simply walk in off the street and admire the splendid foyer and the frescoed cafe of Teatro Grande in Brescia where a handwritten letter by the composer Puccini hangs on the wall.

Churches, basilicas, and cathedrals are another venue to head to for exquisite music performances in Northern Italy. The Christmas and Easter concerts in Venice’s Basilica dei Frari and Milan’s Duomo are a heartfelt experience. Plus, the Duomo’s Music Chapel is Milan’s oldest cultural institution and it has been active since 1402.

In Venice – the birthplace of the famous composer Antonio Vivaldi – you can also enjoy a concert of Baroque music or a performance of his Four Seasons .

Paneveggio – The Violins’ Forest , A Postcard from Cremona

8. Northern Italy’s Exceedingly Delicious Food and Culinary Traditions

Northern Italy has eight regions and each one of them has its own traditional cuisine.

No! Scratch that! Northern Italy has eight regions, 47 provinces, dozens of large cities , countless towns and villages. And you can say that each one of them has a dish that’s unique to it and exquisite culinary traditions that took shape over the course of many centuries.

Millions of people travel to Italy each year eager to have the best pizza and pasta in their lives. Northern Italy offers so much more than that. So, dial-up your culinary expectations and get your taste buds ready to savour:

• polenta in many different variations and applications (it’s not in vain that the Northern Italians are known as polentoni !)
• love-knot tortellini from Valeggio sul Mincio which also have a romantic legend attached to their origin;
• Vicenza’s baccala’ alla vicentina – a dish that was born as a result of one of Europe’s oldest food routes;
• pumpkin tortelli from Mantua – a delicacy with medieval roots;
• prosciutto berico-euganeo DOP from the town of Montagnana – officially recognised as one of the best dry-cured hams in all of Italy, it even has a Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) status;
• coppa Piacentina DOP – thinly sliced cured meat which is produced exclusively in the area around the Northern Italian city of Piacenza;
• strudel from Trentino-South Tyrol and also from Veneto where the wide availability of several Austrian cakes and desserts testify to the historical events in these lands;
• mandorlato from Cologna Veneta and torrone from Cremona – a Christmas nougat made of egg whites, sugar, honey, and almonds.

Even Northern Italian foods, dishes, and desserts that are known all over the world have so many more nuances to them in the actual places where they were first created. Treviso’s tiramisu, Milan’s panettone , Verona’s pandoro, Parma ham (Prosciutto di Parma), and Parmesan cheese (Parmiggiano Reggiano) are only some of the applicable examples.

Eating is not the only way to experience the rich culinary traditions of Italy’s north. Once here, you can also take a cooking class, visit a sagra (a local food event), explore a winery, spend time at an agriturismo (an independent farm), browse food markets that have been held at the same spot for centuries, book food tours , visit producers specialised in a particular delicacy, embrace sweet breakfasts , enjoy proper Italian aperitivo, explore culinary libraries (read here about the one in Vicenza), enjoy chocolate festivals , and get close to the Northern Italian food traditions in so many more different ways.

Food, coffee , and wine are a big component of the culture of Northern Italy. To fully experience this wonderful place, be ready to taste and savour the local dishes and drinks while learning the stories behind them.

From the coffee shops of Venice – the first city in Europe to commercially import coffee in the 16th century – to the chocolate companies of Turin – where some of Italy’s and the world’s most popular chocolates were invented ( Ciao, Nutella! ), there is lots to eat and drink in the north of Italy.

The best tip I can give you is to be curious and be ready to taste something new every day here. Leave preconceptions about what Italian food should look and taste like and embrace the local flavours and culinary delights of Northern Italy.

Breakfast: Rules of Italian Breakfast ,  Italian Breakfast Foods

Food: Italian Markets , Cheap Eats in Italy , The Food of Lake Garda , 10 Reasons to Eat Polenta , Traditions of Panettone , Italian Cheeses , Mandorlato Veneto , Italian Food Gifts , Venetian Frittella , Pasticceria Soraru , Castagnata , Caperberries

Italian Coffee:  Italian Coffee Culture ,  Italian Coffee Drinks ,  History of Coffee in Italy

9. Northern Italy’s Hundreds of Opportunities to Keep Active

Northern Italy is a great destination to head to if you like to keep active. The Italians love sports. Cycling and hiking are especially popular. Children start to cycle from an early age. Many adults cycle to work every day and spend time in the bosom of nature on weekends. In winter, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoe walking are the order of the day.

Being outdoors, exercising, and practising dozens of different sports is not a difficult feat in Northern Italy. You can either dedicate your whole holiday here to sport and exercise or alternate sightseeing and relaxation time with physical activities.

In summer, you can pick from Nordic walking, horse-riding, forest bathing, hand-gliding, swimming, paddleboarding, and windsurfing (to mention but a few of the many different options). In winter ski resorts abound.

Even if you prefer to be a sports spectator rather than an active participant, you are still in luck in Northern Italy. From football matches and stadium tours to the forthcoming Winter Olympics in 2026, there is something for everyone who enjoys watching competitive sports.

And if you prefer your sports with a touch of history, then head straight to Venice. Rowing and sailing regattas inspired by historic events are held here several times throughout the year. Especially popular are the Regatta Storica each September and the Regatta of the Historic Maritime Republics which takes place in Venice once every four years.

Northern Italy’s lakes are wonderful destinations for anyone who loves water sports. Lake Garda and Lake Como , for example, are two of the best spots for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Europe. There are many sailing clubs here that hold regattas throughout the year.

Dozens of winter resorts are dotted all over Northern Italy. Aosta Valley and Trentino-South Tyrol are particularly good destinations for snow sports. Yet, you will find great pistes in Asiago and Monte Baldo in Veneto, Val Camonica and Val Trompia in Lombardy and many more Northern Italian destinations.

10. Northern Italy’s Excellent Shopping

Northern Italy is a great place to visit if you like to shop.

Many renowned Italian brands – both high fashion and high-street – have their headquarters and factories here. The fashion capital Milan has the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Pictured above, it’s considered to be Italy’s oldest active shopping mall.

Several large outlet villages operate near important Northern Italian cities like Venice, Turin, and Brescia . This is where you can shop for branded products at significant discounts:

• Serravalle Outlet Village with more than 230 shops in Piedmont;
• Franciacorta Outlet Village with more than 160 boutiques in Lombardy ;
• Noventa di Piave Designer Outlet with over 150 shops in Veneto ; and
• Fidenza Village with more than 120 boutiques in Emilia-Romagna and with easy access from Lombardy, too.

In addition, large shopping centres stand on the outskirts of the main Northern Italian cities and towns. Inside them, you will find hundreds of shops selling the latest fashions, stylish homewares, Italian jewellery, and anything else, really.

And that’s not all!

Northern Italy is where you will find some of the best artisans and most exquisite craft products in Europe. From the masters of Murano glass in the Venetian Lagoon and the jewellers of Vicenza to the violin-makers of Cremona and the pottery-makers of Faenza, Nove, and Bassano del Grappa, there are hundreds of artisan workshops here to visit, explore, and acquire unique pieces from.

If shopping is serious business for you, then try to visit Italy during its annual sales. Traditionally, they take place twice a year – once at the start of January and then again in June/July. This is when shops offer great discounts and you can shop til you drop.

In Conclusion

Northern Italy has a lot to offer to the traveller seeking to have a wonderful and memorable holiday. A land with a millennial history, beautiful nature, and a rich catalogue of art, this is a corner of Italy that has to be visited at least once in a lifetime.

Easy to reach by plane, train and car from anywhere in Europe and with a well-developed public transport network, Northern Italy has many cities and towns that are wonderful destinations for short breaks and long holidays. If you are looking for a new and intriguing place to visit, in this blog post I gave you ten reasons why the north of Italy may just be it.

From music and art to exceedingly delicious food and adrenaline sports, from mountains and lakes to beaches and hills, from museums and landmarks to large theme parks, there is something for everyone here to enjoy. I hope that all the first-hand tried and tested information shared herewith as well as the map of the eight Northern Italian regions will help you during the planning stages of your holiday.

Have a great time in Italy’s north!

Enjoy every northern italian experience, travel tools, get ready for your trip to northern italy.

Get a guidebook from Amazon. Buy plane tickets , train tickets , and bus tickets through Omio. Rent a car from Europcar. Research accommodation on Booking.com. Select local tours and activities on GetYourGuide , Viator , and Tiqets .

More Helpful Information About Italy for You

Best of Italy:  Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Markets ,  Accommodation for Every Budget ,  Best Times to Visit Italy ,  Italy in Summer ,  Italy with Kids Italian Food:  Best Italian Food Gifts ,  Cheap Italian Food ,  Rules of Italian Breakfast ,  Italian Breakfast Foods Italian Coffee:  Italian Coffee Culture ,  Italian Coffee Drinks ,  History of Coffee in Italy Christmas in Italy:   Fun Facts ,  Things to Do ,  Italian Nativity Scenes ,  Panettone ,  Christmas Guide Northern Italy:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Major Airports ,  Reasons to Visit Lake Como:   Ultimate Travel Guide , Best Towns , Best Things to Do , How to Get to Lake Como ,  Reasons to Visit in Winter ,  Inspiring Photos ,  Nesso , Milan to Lake Como Lake Garda Towns and Villages:   Best Towns ,  Desenzano del Garda ,  Lazise , Riva del Garda ,  Malcesine ,  Torri del Benaco ,  Punta di San Vigilio ,  Campo di Brenzone ,  Borghetto and Valeggio sul Mincio Visiting Lake Garda:  Map of Lake Garda ,  Getting Around Lake Garda , Food of Lake Garda ,  Lake Garda with Kids ,  8 Best Airports ,  Venice to Lake Garda ,  Verona to Lake Garda ,  Milan to Lake Garda ,  Bologna to Lake Garda Verona:  Things to Do in One Day ,  Verona Opera Festival ,  Day Trips from Verona ,  Romeo and Juliet Itinerary ,  Verona to Venice ,  Verona to Milan Padua:  Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:  Things to Do ,  Day Trips from Vicenza ,  Best Museums ,  The Beauty of Vicenza Veneto:  Top Places to Visit ,  Unique Adventures ,  Most Colourful Places ,  Mysterious Places ,  Most Beautiful Lakes ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Main Cities ,  Prettiest Small Towns ,  Most Beautiful Villages Lombardy:   Best Cities and Towns ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Brescia Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Umbria:   Reasons to Visit Perugia

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Map of northern Italy

Detailed map of northern Italy. Map of northern Italy (Southern Europe - Europe) to print. Map of northern Italy (Southern Europe - Europe) to download. Italy is one of the most popular countries in Europe to visit because of the variety of destinations within its borders. Northern Italy is a premier hotspot when it comes to Italian culture, with so much for travelers to see and do as its shown in the map of northern Italy. Whether sampling fine wine and dining on world-class cuisine or exploring ancient castles and churches, this region offers unique experiences that you will love.

Detailed map of northern Italy

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks

A Northern Italy road trip means enchanting lakes, astonishing mountains, and romantic cities. Along the way, you will experience delectable Italian gastronomy, adrenaline-pumping hikes, and fascinating museums and art galleries.

There is so much to take into account when planning the perfect Northern Italy itinerary so my travel guide is here to help you get started.

In this 2 weeks in Northern Italy article, you will find all the necessary information about where to visit, where to stay and what to do, along with many useful travel tips and information about the region. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Overview of Your Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Rather than proposing what to do each day of your 2 week Italy road trip, I have split your itinerary into 6 sections that cover a different region.

Each segment contains useful information about how to get there, where to stay and where to eat as well as the best things to do in that specific area.

Breakdown of your 2 weeks in Northern Italy

• Milan: 2 days
• Lake Como: 2 days
• Lake Garda: 2 days
• Verona: 1 day
• Dolomites: 5 days
• Venice: 2 days

You can choose whether you start in Milan and end in Venice, or go in reverse. This Northern Italy road trip itinerary works either way!

Map for your Northern Italy road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Northern Italy road trip itinerary.

I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit in each area.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Milan (2 Days)

Milan is the Italian equivalent of Paris with its hundreds of boutiques, splendid landmarks, and fashion-centric identity.

The city was subject to devastation during World War II although fortunately the monuments such as the Duomo di Milan were salvaged and resurrected. That being said, Milan has the most modern vibe of the cities featured on this Northern Italy road trip.

Although it’s a huge city, most of the tourist attractions are centrally located so 2 days in Milan is sufficient time for getting to know the city. 

Best things to do in Milan

Duomo di milano .

The most iconic landmark in the city, the Duomo di Milano (Cathedral of Milan) is the perfect place to start your 2 weeks in Northern Italy.

You can admire the gothic architecture from the outside and visit the rooftop for panoramic city views. I strongly recommend doing both!

Make sure to book your tickets in advance to skip the line . Trust me, you’ll thank me later!

Piazza del Duomo

The Cathedral Square is the center of Milan and is a great place to hang out with an espresso or gelato while you take in the sights and observe stylish Milan locals going about their day.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II 

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the oldest shopping mall in Italy. You can browse luxury stores in this elegant 19th-century arcade or just visit to take photos.

It’s beautiful at night when it’s illuminated by street lights and if you want to have it all to yourself, make sure to be there before 8 am.

The Last Supper

Did you know that one of the most famous paintings in the world is located in Milan? Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper is housed in the 15th-century basilica, Santa Maria Delle Grazie.

Tickets are usually sold out months in advance so it’s important to book a ticket online the moment you know the exact dates of your Northern Italy road trip!

Castello Sforzesco

Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza (the Duke of Milan), the Castello Sforzesco is wonderfully preserved and it’s one of the most beautiful castles in Europe to this day.

The castle is free to visit and you can visit the current art exhibition at the museum for a minimal fee.

Royal Palace

This impressive 18th-century palace was formerly a governmental seat but now it hosts historic artworks in an opulent setting. It’s worth coinciding a visit with the Modern Art Gallery to note how styles have evolved. 

San Siro (AC Milan) Stadium

Perhaps not for everyone but if you are a football fan you might want to book a tour of the AC Milan Stadium and Museum.

The museum houses historic and contemporary memorabilia while the tour includes the VIP stand, interview room, and dressing rooms. 

Navigli 

This bohemian neighborhood features funky canalside trattorias and floating bars.

After lots of art and landmarks, it makes a nice change to your Milan itinerary and is a great place to spend an afternoon pottering around flea markets and vintage stores or an evening of laid-back drinks. 

Where to eat in Milan

• Caffè Vergnano 1882 : Situated within walking distance to the Duomo, this is a great place to grab a morning pastry and fresh brew before you dive into a day of sightseeing.  
• B : B operates a restaurant and a cafe within walking distance of one another. Both are set within chic interiors and give you the chance to enjoy authentic Italian. Visit B for artistic fine dining and wine and B Cafe for gourmet sandwiches and cocktails.
• Macha Cafe : Because you’re going to be eating a lot of Northern Italian dishes over the next few days, spice things up with some fresh Japanese food. Sushi, poke bowls and stacked pancakes served with matcha are on the menu at this cute string of restaurants. 
• Rita : One of the coolest bars in Milan, this canalside bar mixes innovative cocktails and serves a mix of comforting Italian dishes 
• Pavé : If you love the combination of delicious pastries with a heavenly cappuccino, drop by this cute cafe for a hearty breakfast or a quick afternoon snack. Each product is carefully crafted and beautifully presented so it’s a real feast for the eyes and the soul as well!

Where to stay in Milan

As you are only spending 2 days in Milan, I recommend that you stay centrally, especially if this is your first time in the city.

The Centro Storico is the heart of the city and this is where you can discover all of the major cultural attractions as well as shops and places to eat. More affordable accommodation is located on the outer rim of the historic center, in Brera and Navigli.

Milan’s center is fairly walkable and has good public transportation so it’s enough to pick up your rental car before leaving. This way you can save some money on the rental time as well as on parking. 

If you want to read more about the different neighborhoods, make sure to check out my in-depth article about where to stay in Milan .

If you’re in a rush, below you can find my top picks for hotels in Milan for different budgets.

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Milano
• Mid-range: Sina De La Ville
• Budget: Acca Palace

Lake Como (2 Days)

Located in the Lombardy region at the foot of the Alps, Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy.

The azure water is surrounded by cute little lakeside towns, each with its own portfolio of stylish hotels, trendy restaurants, historic churches, landmarks, and museums as well as boat piers that connect to other towns.

Its dramatic setting means that you have viewpoints from pretty much anywhere. Swimming is possible in Lake Como but be prepared for the deep water to be cold even at the peak of summer.

Due to the peculiar shape of the lake (like the letter ‘Y’) the perimeter of the lake is 171 km (106 miles) and this makes it tricky to drive around the entire lake during this Northern Italy road trip itinerary.

Bellagio is strategically positioned to enable you to drive to other nearby towns and hop on boats to those further afield.

Driving time: 1 hour (56 km/35 miles) from Milan to Lecco, 1.5 hours (70 km/44 miles) from Milan to Bellagio or Varenna

Best things to do in Lake Como

Even if you choose to stay elsewhere during this leg of your road trip to Northern Italy, you should still consider spending at least a few hours in this picturesque lakeside town. Wander the cobblestone streets, dip into cafes and soak up the atmosphere – you won’t be disappointed!

Sail Lake Como

There are plenty of opportunities to hire a motorboat or board a sailing trip to explore Lake Como from the water. This Sailing Boat Experience gives you the chance to have a go at playing captain and swimming opportunities. 

Villa del Balbianello 

Right out of a fairytale, this villa is set upon the Lavedo headland and juts out to provide splendid lake views from its grounds and terraces. The villa has been used for special events and as a film set many times over the years, if you’ve seen James Bond or Star Wars it may ring a bell.

Villa Carlotta 

A short drive south of Menaggio, this luxurious 17th-century lakeside villa is set within 14 acres of botanical gardens. The residence showcases masterpieces including The Kiss by Francesco Hayez and exhibits how the stately home would have looked in the 19th century. 

Isola Comacina

Isola Comacina is the solo island of Lake Como and is located in the southwest part of the lake. Boats shuttle tourists to the island from Ossuccio as well as towns further afield.

For a small place, Isola Comacina has a large history that you can discover via its churches and historic buildings before slashing out on an upscale meal at the island restaurants.

As one of the largest towns, Lecco has a monopoly on some of the most interesting attractions in Lake Como. Tour the Palace of Fears and the Manzoni Museum of Municipal Art and walk along the Lungolago di Lecco.

There are numerous short hiking trails that are accessible from Lecco if you have some extra time.

Como-Brunate Funicolare

Ride the Funicolare Como-Brunate from Como Town to the mountain town of Brunate for magnificent views.

You’ll find restaurants at the top or you can hike to the summit of Monte Boletto. This 11.7 km (7.3 miles) hike is moderate to challenging and takes approximately 3-4 hours in total. 

Where to eat in Lake Como

• Kitchen : Located in Como, Kitchen puts a modern twist on traditional Italian staples within an exquisite setting that’s perfect for special occasions.
• Trattoria Corte Fiorina : Hidden away down one of the oldest streets in Lecco, this lovely restaurant features an outdoor courtyard and a sophisticated internal dining room. The risotto is highly commended.
• Gelateria del Borgo : Homemade ice cream, milkshakes, and cakes to go or savor in a tranquil courtyard in beautiful Bellagio. 
• Osteria Il Pozzo : This rustic trattoria in Menaggio has a compact menu but every dish is loaded with flavor and the place has a casual ambiance. 
• Babi Como : Located in Como, this lovely cafe serves the most delicious and aesthetic dishes ever. If you’re looking for a delicious brunch in a beautifully decorated cafe with all the good vibes, don’t miss out on this one!

Where to stay in Lake Como

As Lake Como comprises many small resort towns you have plenty of choices available with accommodations varying from basic guesthouses to luxury villas.

Bellagio is perhaps the most idyllic and most convenient place to stay in Lake Como. However, Como, Lecco, Tremezzo, Menaggio, and Varenna are all worthy contenders. 

You can decide whether you want to book 2 nights and stay in the same hotel or spend the two evenings in different towns.

Whichever one you choose, make sure to ditch your car during the day and use the public boats and ferries to get around Lake Como as driving (and especially finding a parking spot) would be a big hassle.

To get you started, below you can find my personal recommendations for staying in Bellagio or Varenna for every budget which is a great base for your Lake Como itinerary .

If you want to know more about where to stay in Lake Como, check out my detailed guide about the best places to stay in Lake Como which includes 7 different towns with pros-cons and hotel recommendations!

Best places to stay in Bellagio

• Luxury | Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
• Mid-range | Hotel du Lac & SPA
• Budget | Hotel Bellagio

Best places to stay in Varenna

• Luxury | Hotel Royal Victoria
• Mid-range | Hotel Olivedo
• Budget | Hotel Montecodeno

Lake Garda (2 Days)

In terms of surface volume, Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. As with Lake Como, Lake Garda is a popular destination for international and domestic tourists alike and it’s the most family-friendly of Italy’s lake destinations.

The glorious sapphire water is framed by resort towns with historic sites and lively restaurants. If you wanted to drive around Lake Garda in its entirety, it would take approximately 3 hours, subject to traffic, to complete the 140 km (90 miles) radius. 

The northern end of Lake Garda almost resembles a system of fjords and arguably is the most impressive visually. As with Lake Como, swimming is possible at Lake Garda so add your swimmers to your Northern Italy road trip packing list. 

Driving time: 2.5 hours (150 km/93 miles) from Bellagio to Sirmione or 3 hours (185km/115 miles) from Bellagio to Riva del Garda

Best things to do in Lake Garda 

Rocca scaligero castle.

The main landmark of Sirmione is the moated 13th-century Scaligero Castle. Open to the public, you can pay to tour the interiors and clamber around the towers for sprawling lake views. 

Thermal baths 

Sirmione is known for its thermal baths which are believed to have healing benefits. There is a selection of bathhouses on the peninsula or you can drive further afield to Parco Termale del Garda or Villa dei Cedri. After all, 2 weeks in Northern Italy calls for some indulgence, am I right?

Cruise Lake Garda

Watersports and sailings are rife in Lake Garda and provide a unique way to experience the surroundings. You can choose from short boat tours by speedboat , four-hours cruises , and sunset sailings . 

Monte Baldo hiking trail

Lake Garda provides a wealth of hiking trails that are accessible without a guide. The Monte Baldo circuit is a moderate 8 km (5 miles) trail that takes around 4 hours to complete.

To access the trailhead you will need to ride the cable car from Malcesine to the top of Monte Baldo, which is worth doing regardless of whether or not you want to hike. 

Riva del Garda promenade

Riva del Garda’s backdrop with the towering mountains and greenery really helps make the pastel-colored buildings pop. Take the time to wander the promenade or take a boat ride to appreciate the postcard-perfect landscape even if you don’t choose to stay in the town.  

Lake Garda markets

Traditional Italian markets operate most days in the towns of Lake Garda and give you the opportunity to purchase fresh local produce and souvenirs such as leather goods and ceramics. You can check the schedule for the current locations and timings of the Lake Garda markets online. 

Gardaland 

Italy’s leading amusement park is located right next to Lake Garda and provides white knuckle rides and family-friendly alternatives to appease all. If you’re traveling with children or teenagers, Gardaland is a fun addition to factor into your Northern Italy road trip.

Where to eat in Lake Garda 

• Jamaica Bar : Nab yourself a spot at one of the most scenic parts of Sirmione and soak up views of Lake Garda over a sunset cocktail. 
• Mamba Beach Club Limone : Providing incredible views of the lake, a pool and sun terrace, artistic dishes, and flashy cocktails, this is a great spot if you want to indulge in some lakeside luxury. 
• Hosteria Croce d’Oro : A small family-owned trattoria in Desenzano del Garda that serves homemade pasta, succulent meat, and wholesome seafood with an expansive wine menu. 
• Aril Pizzeria : An unpretentious diner in Malcesine with an ample pizza menu at budget-friendly prices. 
• Ristorante Al Vaticano : Situated in a quintessentially Italian courtyard in Riva del Garda, the environment is just as pleasing as the hearty Italian fare. 
• La Darsena : Operated by Grand Hotel Fasano, this lakeside restaurant offers an extensive outdoor space shaded by chestnut trees right by the lake. They serve aperitifs and cocktails along with authentic local cuisine such as homemade pastas and delicious pizzas.

Where to stay in Lake Garda 

Similar to Lake Como, I recommend booking accommodation for two nights in Lake Garda but consider splitting your accommodation across two towns.

As you approach from the south, you can start your Lake Garda road trip in the southern end and book a hotel in the peninsula town of Sirmione or historic Desenzano del Garda.

For your second night, I suggest either Malcesine in the shadow of Monte Baldo or the colorful resort towns of Riva del Garda or Limone sul Garda. 

All of these proposed towns are well-equipped with amenities, restaurants, and attractions for your road trip to Northern Italy. But, of course, you might prefer to book somewhere more remote along the lakeside – it’s totally up to you!

If you want to know more about the best towns to stay at the lake, make sure to check my in-depth guide about where to stay in Lake Garda .

If you don’t want to spend too much time with searching for accommodations, check out my recommendations below for different budgets.

• Luxury: Hotel Olivi Spa & Natural Wellness
• Mid-range: Du Lac Et Du Parc Grand Resort
• Budget: Albergo Ristorante Montebaldo

Verona (1 Day)

Verona is a small medieval city that’s teeming with ancient sights. The historic center, Città Antica, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a number of landmarks that predate the Rome equivalents.

Verona is also the gateway to the Valpolicella wine region and while you’re in the city you can sample the esteemed local reds for yourself, best enjoyed with a delicious Verona meal.

It’s a small city so spending 1 day in Verona is sufficient for your Northern Italy road trip.

Driving time: 50 minutes (45 km/28 miles) from Sirmione to Verona or 1 hour 10 minutes (85 km/53 miles) from Riva del Garda to Verona

Best things to do in Verona

Piazza brà.

The beating heart of Verona, Piazza Brà, is where you most likely start your day in Verona. It’s a lovely spot and believed to be the largest public square in Europe.

Note the statue of Italy’s original ruler, King Vittorio Emanuele II, in the center and spend some time admiring the historic buildings and walls of the Verona Arena. 

Juliet’s Balcony

Sure it’s a little touristy but seeing the legendary balcony that Romeo wooed Juliet from is worth adding to your Northern Italy itinerary.

The square that Casa di Giulietta is located in is tiny and gets crowded so you should visit as early as possible in the day to snap a photo. Romeo’s house is just around the corner! 

Torre dei Lamberti

Situated in Piazza del Erbe, the Torre dei Lamberti is a Medieval bell tower that dates back to the 12th century. You can tackle the stairs or hop into the elevator and take in the panoramic views across the rooftops of Verona from the top.

Verona Arena

This Roman amphitheater is so fantastically preserved that it’s still used to this day for opera. You can tour the arena or even watch a live performance if your visit coincides with a concert.

A number of walking tours operate in town that include skip the line entry to Verona Arena . 

Castel San Pietro

An alternative option for getting a birds-eye view of Verona: ride the funicular to this ancient fortress that was built upon a castle.

To access the funicular station, you will cross over the ornate Ponte Pietro which is a sight within itself.

Wine tasting

Enjoy a tipple of Valpolicella in one of Verona’s world-class restaurants or book a Valpolicella Wine Garden Visit with Wine Tasting for deeper insight.

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore

Another one for the Shakespeare fans, the crypt of the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore is where the marriage of Romeo and Juliet took place. The Romanesque-style church was constructed between 967-1398 AD in honor of St Zeno of Verona. 

Where to eat in Verona

• Trattoria Reale : Positioned down a photographic alleyway, this elegant eatery serves a mix of classic Italian dishes. 
• Elk Bakery : Fluffy pancakes, delicious toasted bagels, and americanos that will satisfy those seeking a reprise from espressos; this is a great little breakfast spot to squeeze in. 
• Ziga Bar : A cozy vegetarian restaurant that also has excellent vegan options. Perfect for plant-based foodies seeking brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• Amorino : For anyone seeking their daily gelato fix, the servers at Amorino will present it sculptured into the shape of a flower.

Where to stay in Verona

As you will only spend 1 day in Verona I suggest that you stay close to the Città Antica, the historic center. Cittadella and Borgo Trento are alternatives where accommodation is a fraction cheaper or where parking spaces are more likely to come by.

Below you can find some of the best places to stay in Verona for every budget.

• Luxury: Due Torri Hotel
• Mid-range: Hotel Giulietta e Romeo
• Budget: Hotel San Marco Fitness Pool & Spa

Dolomites (5 Days)

The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising razorblade peaks as well as alpine lakes and fairytale meadows.

The area spans the three provinces of Belluno, Trentino, and South Tyrol and you will notice that many towns, lakes, and landmarks have both Italian and German names due to the close proximity to Austria and Switzerland. 

My advice is to split the Dolomites section of your Northern Italy road trip into West and East with 3 days in the Western Dolomites and 2 days in the Eastern Dolomites.

From each base, you will be able to plan short hikes and check out picturesque churches and turquoise lakes. 

To plan this part of your Northern Italy itinerary in more detail you can read my ultimate Dolomites road trip itinerary for 5 days .

Driving time: 2 hours (190 km/118 miles) from Verona to Ortisei, then 1.5 hours (65 km/40 miles) from Ortisei to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Best things to do in the Dolomites

Alpe di siusi (seiser alm).

Hiking at Alpe di Siusi is one of the best hikes in the Dolomites as it enables you to see right across this alpine meadow and at the peaks of the Western Dolomites.

You can get there by riding the cable car from Ortisei during the day but if you want to visit for sunrise or sunset, you’ll have to drive up to Compatsch and hike for about an hour to reach the scenic viewpoint.

It’s important to know that you can only drive to Compatsch and not further, and it’s not allowed to drive up between 9 am and 5 pm.

From Ortisei, you can ride the cable car high into the Puez Odle Nature Park and follow a short hiking trail to see the shocking ridgeline of Seceda with its huge dropoff.

You can continue by walking across the ridge if you have time and you can choose to take some longer hikes in the area as well. 

Churches of the Dolomites

Two of the prettiest churches in the Dolomites are within driving distance of Ortisei. Framed by the Odle mountain range, Santa Maddalena Church is located in the town of the same name.

From here you can choose to walk or drive to the neighboring St. John Church in Ranui which is said to be the most photographed church in the entire Dolomites.

Passo Gardena 

This high-altitude mountain pass connects Sëlva in the Val Gardena with Corvara in Val Badia. This is the best way to connect with Cortina d’Ampezzo where you will spend the next few days of your 2 week Italy road trip. Make sure you stop at Rifugio Frara where you can find a fantastic viewpoint!

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)

There are many beautiful lakes in the Dolomites but perhaps the most famous of all is Lago di Braies. During the summer season, you can rent a rowing boat and sail yourself across the water.

Visit as early as possible to beat the crowds, otherwise, you might not be able to snag a parking spot later!

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

This relatively easy yet utterly scenic hike provides jaw-dropping views of the famous three peaks. It’s a relatively easy hike that can be completed within 4-5 hours and requires no special skills.

Read my complete guide to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike and put this at the top of your list of things to do in the Eastern Dolomites.  

Cadini di Misurina

This is a short hike that rewards you with one of the most spectacular viewpoints that you’ll see during your 2 weeks in Northern Italy.

It’s not a very popular find and it’s generally hard to find information about it online so make sure to check out my Cadini di Misurina hiking guide before you go!

Where to eat in the Dolomites

• Caffè Val d’Anna : This apres joint in Ortisei dishes up comforting South Tyrolean dishes and light Italian dishes. Their apfelstrüdel is touted as the best in the Dolomites!
• Baita Resch : A warm and cozy restaurant with warming plates that will provide nourishment after tackling the local hiking trails around Cortina d’Ampezzo.
• Dolomiti : Feast on freshly baked bread and pastries to start your day or wind down in the evening with a glass of wine at this friendly restaurant and bar. 

Where to stay in the Dolomites

Head to Ortisei (Urtijëi) in the valley of Val Gardena and make this your base for the first 3 days where you will explore the Western Dolomites. This is the largest and prettiest of the three Val Gardena towns.

Then you can relocate to Cortina d’Ampezzo in the province of Belluno for the last 2 days. Considered the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites’, this is an alpine ski resort that offers excellent summer hiking. 

If you want to learn more about the best areas to stay in the Dolomites, make sure to check out my detailed post about where to stay in the Dolomites which contains pros and cons, and hotel recommendations for each area.

In case you don’t want to spend too much time for searching, check out my recommendations for staying in Val Gardena and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Best places to stay in Val Gardena:

• Luxury: Hotel Angelo Engel
• Mid-range: Garni August
• Budget: Hotel Edda

Best places to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo:

• Luxury: Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Mid-range: HOTEL de LEN
• Budget: Hotel Meuble Oasi

Venice (2 Days)

As one of the most beautiful cities in Europe , Venice is swimming in evocative views and attractions to make your heart swoon. A cluster of around 100 islands within the Venetian Lagoon form the city of Venice.

The main six sestieri (districts) are wrapped around the Grand Canal but further afield you have other islands such as Burano and Murano that have a different identity of their own.

Venice is a pedestrianized city so you can discard your rental car for the final two days of your 2 week Northern Italy road trip. Regardless of where you choose to stay in Venice, you can get to most places easily on foot or by water taxi (Vaporetto). 

As Venice is a paradise for photographers you might want to check out my guide to the best Venice Instagram spots which contains some essential shooting tips along with the exact coordinates for each location. 

Driving time: 2 hours (160 km/100 miles) from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Venice

Best things to do in Venice

St. mark’s square & st. mark’s basilica .

Start your Venice exploration in the core of the city from where you can access the top tourist attractions and photograph the landmarks.

While you’re there you can also dip into St. Mark’s Basilica and ride the elevator to the top of St. Mark’s Campanile for the best panoramic views over the city.

Doge Palace

Doge Palace is an ornate complex comprising exhibition halls brimming with artworks, armor, and the famous golden staircase.

It’s worth planning ahead and booking a Doge Palace skip the line ticket which shortens the time spent queuing. 

Bridge of Sighs 

A splendid bridge with a darker history, the Bridge of Sighs is where prisoners released one final breath in daylight before being imprisoned next door to Doge’s Palace. Gondolas usually take you beneath it but it’s worth visiting on foot as well for a different perspective.

Gondola Ride

Although the costs will raise any eyebrow, riding on a traditional Venetian gondola is such a special occasion it’s really worth doing it.

Prices are steep, usually around €120 but you might be able to negotiate a little bit. 

Rialto Bridge 

Originally constructed during the 12th century (with subsequent reconstruction), Rialto Bridge is the oldest in Venice and one of the city’s most arresting sights. Pay a visit to take some photos and watch the passing gondolas. 

Murano is another one of Venice’s islands that is accessible via Vaporetto and is a joy to explore on foot. Visit the Glass Cathedral of Santa Chiara which all makes sense once you’ve educated yourself on the island’s glass-blowing heritage at the Glass Museum.

Another island you can spend a half day exploring, Burano is known for its colorful architecture, lacemaking, and seafood. Find Bepi’s House, cross the Love Bridge, and order the catch of the day.

Where to eat in Venice 

• Cantina Do Mori : It’s tricky to find hidden restaurants in Venice but this historic local joint fits the bill. Come with a hunger for Cicchetti (Italian tapas) and a thirst for wine.
• Ristorante Wistèria : Fresh, authentic Venetian fare crafted from seasonal produce that suits vegetarians and carnivores alike. Book ahead to secure a table in the canalside garden.
• Gelatoteca Suso : Rumored to be the greatest gelato in the world, this gelateria is conveniently positioned next to the Rialto Bridge and even offers vegan options. 
• Caffè Florian : Said to be the oldest cafe in Europe, this is a lovely place to grab a coffee, negroni, or signature hot chocolate in a charismatic setting. Although dining at Caffé Florian is truly a once in a lifetime experience, be prepared that you will have to pay big bucks for it!
• Trattoria Al Gatto Nero : Stop for the freshest calamari and seafood linguine at this historic Burano trattoria. 

Where to stay in Venice 

Although central Venice spreads across six sestieri, the city is far smaller than you might think, therefore 2 days in Venice is all you need to explore the best sights.

San Marco and San Polo together form the touristic center of the city which means that there are lots of accommodations available within walking distance of the major tourist spots, although they are on the pricier side.

Cannaregio is a great alternative that’s still super convenient but a tad more affordable.

To learn more about the different parts of Venice, make sure to read my in-depth guide about where to stay in Venice . And if you want to make your stay even more memorable, you can stay in one of the most incredible Venice hotels with canal views !

Below you can find my personal recommendations for the best places to stay in Venice for different budgets.

• Luxury: Baglioni Hotel Luna
• Mid-range: H10 Palazzo Canova
• Budget: Hotel Bel Sito e Berlino

Useful Info for Your Northern Italy Itinerary

How to get to northern italy .

As you can start this Northern Italy road trip itinerary in either Milan or Venice, you will need to fly to either Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Venice Airport Marco Polo (VCE).

Both are international airports that connect to other Italian cities and destinations in mainland Europe and you can usually find budget flights so keep an eye on upcoming sales. Nonstop flights operate between New York JFK and Milan. 

If you are already in Italy then you might want to take the train to your starting point and then pick up your rental car. Milano Centrale Railway Station (Milan) and Santa Lucia Train Station (Venice) connect to most major Italian cities.

If you’re coming from another European country that is not so far away from Italy and you own a car, it’s worth considering bringing it with you.

This way you can save a lot of money by not having to rent a car but on the other hand, you will need to calculate with the extra fuel usage for getting to Italy from your home country.

But since you’ll be spending 2 weeks in Northern Italy, having your own car is a lot better financially!

Best time go on a Northern Italy road trip

Italy experiences four seasons and the climate is a fraction cooler year-round in the north in comparison to the south. You can practically visit Northern Italy anytime and you’ll be greeted with beautiful scenery! But let’s see what are the absolute best times for your Northern Italy road trip itinerary.

The shoulder seasons of April, May, June, September, and October are the best times to visit and do this 2 week Italy road trip. This way you will benefit from the most pleasant weather and you will be able to visit everywhere on my itinerary including the hiking trails.

The months of July and August are considered as the peak tourist season which means everywhere will be busier, accommodation rates higher, and the weather at its hottest.

However, if you don’t mind these factors then summer is a wonderful time to visit Northern Italy for seeing the wildflowers in full bloom!

That said, if you like winter wonderlands you’ll love seeing the Dolomites when they’re topped with snow. Although please keep in mind that most of the hiking trails in the Dolomites will be closed during the winter and you will need to take some extra precautions for driving in the snow.

On the other hand, you can go skiing in the mountains which can be a nice addition to your Northern Italy road trip.

Tips for driving in Northern Italy

When planning your dream road trip to Northern Italy don’t forget to check the local driving laws and prepare any paperwork before you pick up your rental. Here are some quick tips to help you get started.

Driving License

If you’re coming from overseas, you will need to carry your driving license from your home country as well as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) while driving in Northern Italy.

If your driving license was issued by one of the member states of the European Economic Area, you will not need the IDP as your license is valid in Italy.

Seatbelts & Speed Limits

Seatbelts are compulsory in Italy so remember to buckle up. Speed limits in Italy are usually 130 kph (81 mph) on major highways, 110 kph (68 mph) on non-major highways, and 90 kph (56 mph) on local roads. Always check for signs. 

Driving on Autostradas

When driving on autostradas (toll roads) you are required to pay at the booth as you exit the autostrada. Make sure to check the boards above each line in advance because it’s very important to stand in line at the correct one!

Avoid the yellow board that says “Telepass” and choose either the blue board that says “Carte” where you can pay with credit cards or the white board that indicates cash payment only.

Most toll roads accept credit cards but it’s worth having cash in your pocket in case the machine doesn’t work (it happens more than you would think!).

Driving in the Dolomites

When you reach the Dolomites region of your Northern Italy road trip itinerary prepare for narrow winding roads. Err on the side of caution and drive slowly if you are less confident behind the wheel.

Parking lots in the Dolomites are very limited so you will need to arrive early to grab a space at viewpoints, lakes, and trailheads. 

Parking in Northern Italy

When booking accommodation make sure that the hotel provides parking and check whether you need to reserve it in advance or pay extra to secure a spot. Parking in Northern Italy is hard to come by!

There’s no need to drive in the cities as they are generally walkable and you will find the public transport is less stressful. In case your hotel doesn’t provide parking, it’s best to find a parking house and leave your car there while exploring the cities.

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks”

Would love to follow your great itinerary leaving from Milan but also returning to Milan for our flight home. We have visited Venice but would like to stay one night in Verona before returning to Milan. Do you have suggestions for a scenic, interesting drive from Verona back to Milan? Would like to avoid the Autostrada completely if possible. Thanks for any help with this!

Hi Tish! During our Northern Italy road trip we only used the autostrada between Verona and Milan so unfortunately I don’t have any suggestions for a scenic drive. But if you’re not planning to stay at Lake Garda, maybe you can drive around the lake before returning to Milan from Verona? It’s a super scenic road for sure!

This is the most professional, complete, informative, awe inspiring and beautiful travel blog / guide I have seen. Well done! I plan to use this as a travel guide for sure. I did not see any dates as to when you took this adventure, nor an estimate of costs along the way and overall, but this would be very helpful too. Thank you Kriszti. 😁

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback!

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Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

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Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip from Milan to Rome

A northern Italy road trip is a great way to experience the diversity and beauty of Italy’s regions, cultures, and history. As you travel south through Italy, you will experience picturesque lakes, artistic and historical cities, the beautiful Mediterranean coast, and UNESCO sites tucked away in small Italian towns. 

A north Italian road trip offers a wealth of experiences! From exploring charming lakeside towns and the beautiful Italian countryside to admiring the region’s famous art and architecture, you can also take time to stop and visit local wineries, and sample delicious Italian cuisine on this road trip through northern Italy.

We’ve spent months exploring Italy and in this northern Italy road trip planner we share travel tips, the best routes between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Italian itinerary.

Where is Northern Italy?

Northern Italy, or in Italian Nord Italia , is an area that stretches from the southern Alps south to the Po valley, and from the northernmost coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea across to the coast of the Adriatic Sea on the northeastern side of Italy. The area consists of eight administrative regions: Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige.

Technically and geographically speaking, that is! But we’ve decided to also include the regions of Tuscany and Lazio, to add even more experiences and diversity to this northern Italy road trip.

The landscape of northern Italy is made up of fertile rolling hills, the flatlands of the vast Po River, deep mountain lakes, and the dramatic peaks of the  Dolomites , making the region one of the best for Italian road trips.

Is this your first time visiting Italy? Get all the information you need in our Italy Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Getting to Northern Italy

Whether you’re taking a road trip to northern Italy in a car , motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular region of Italy.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Milan Malpensa Airport to start your north Italy road trip. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Italy? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Italy. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Travel Tip: Non-EU visitors planning to rent a vehicle car in Italy may require an international driving permit (IDP) as well as their driving license. You can find out if you need an IDP here . 

Driving in Italy

Lots of people will tell you that renting a car in Italy is madness, that driving through Italy is dangerous and the roads are dreadful.  

Don’t let your fears about driving in this beautiful country put you off taking a road trip through northern Italy. Take your time as you drive Tuscany and be prepared for the differences in driving styles from back home. Follow our driving in Italy tips to stay safe and stress-free!

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Italy . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Best Time to Take a Road Trip in Northern Italy

March to may.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit the northern part of Italy, with temperatures warming up across the country. Blooming wildflowers, vibrant greenery in the mountains and the outdoor cafés opening up mean spring is a fantastic time to experience Italy by car. You’ll find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

In summer, the north of Italy enjoys beautiful weather, stunning coastlines, and the prospect of swimming and dining al fresco. However, the roads, cities, and attractions will be at their busiest and it can get really hot, especially in the lowlands.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for northern Italy road trips . The grapes and crops are being harvested, food festivals celebrate the bounty of the land, and you might enjoy an Indian summer, with the fall colors of the vine aflame.

December to February

The winter months in northern Italy can be very cold and wet. But, the big attraction of a northern Italy trip in winter is that there is no one else around, although some attractions may well be closed. If you travel from late January through February, you’ll get a taste of northern Italy’s loud and colorful carnivals, the most famous being the flamboyant Carnival of Venice .

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Italy.

Northern Italy Road Trip Map & Route

This two week northern Italy itinerary is best started in Milan and ended in Rome. These cities are easily accessible and span the largest portion of northern Italy, and driving from Milan to Rome is an exciting and scenic journey through some of Italy’s most beautiful and historical regions. 

We’ve even added a couple of side trips, which help you to see more of Italy as you drive between destinations!

Starting in Milan, your first stop should be Lake Como, known for its picturesque towns, elegant villas, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. When you head to this area of Italy, the towns of Bellagio and Varenna are must-see destinations, with their charming streets, picturesque harbors, and beautiful gardens.

After your trip north from Milan to Lake Como, you can begin journeying south, via Lake Garda, to explore the cities of Verona, Venice, and Bologna. 

On your northern Italian road trip, it is worth finding the time to explore the west coast and Cinque Terre, and the city of Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower. 

Continuing further south into the Italian region of Tuscany, you will pass through the city of Florence and smaller towns including San Gimignano and Siena, all of which are rich in history.

Finally, our north of Italy road trip ends in Rome, the Eternal City. Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world and it is easy to see why!

Top Tip: The northern Italian road trip is simplest when following the Italian motorways, which connect the vast majority of this route. However, we would recommend seeking out local SS roads which offer a more scenic experience.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Italy
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips Northern & Central Italy
• Northern Italy: Emilia-Romagna Bradt Guide: including Bologna, Ferrara, Modena, Parma, Ravenna and the Republic of San Marino

Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Milan – lake como – verona – venice – bologna – cinque terre – pisa – florence – san gimignano – siena – rome.

• Distance 1312km
• Duration 10-14 days
• Drive Time 17 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Milan 

Milan, known as the fashion capital of Italy, is an incredible blend of old and new. The most iconic site in Milan is its Il Duomo di Milano. From the outside, the Cathedral of Milan provides an incredible example of Gothic architecture. By booking a tour of the cathedral , you will receive panoramic views of the city from the cathedral’s rooftop terrace.

Following closely in terms of importance is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where you can see The Last Supper , the unrivaled masterpiece painted between 1495 and 1497 by Leonardo da Vinci, whose work ushered in a new era in the history of art.

Another must-see site is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, which is perfect for those interested in luxury brands.

If you have an extra day in Milan, take a day trip to Turin , Italy’s first capital. With diverse architecture and a well-preserved historic center, the city is best known for the Turin Shroud, housed in the Duomo de Torino. Make sure to look out for the Campanaria Duomo di Torino, the only flying equestrian bronze statue in the world!

Travel Tip:  Milan is split into distinct districts. The Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals, is perfect if you’re looking for bustling nightlife and late-night shopping, while the Brera district is Milan’s artistic neighborhood, home to art galleries and museums, such as the Pinacoteca di Brera.

• Where to Stay in Milan

Upmarket: Portrait Milano – Lungarno Collection – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Aparthotel Meneghino – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: 21 House of Stories Città Studi – Booking.com | Agoda

The drive from Milan to Lake Como is a relatively short journey of around an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose to take. Once you reach Como, you can take the SS340 and SS639 roads to get to the towns around the lake. 

Visitors to Lake Como can either enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and incredible scenery or fill their days with a variety of activities. Cruise on a boat tour around the lake , enjoy a wine tasting in the Damaso region, explore the lake by kayak or discover the hiking trails in the surrounding mountains. 

The towns of Como, Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna, and Tremezzo are worth visiting. Bellagio, referred to as the Pearl of Lake Como, is famous for its elegant, lakeside villas, as are Tremezzo, Menaggio, and Varenna.

Como is the largest town on the lake and is home to the Cathedral of Como, which dates back to the 14th century, and the Broletto, a medieval town hall. You can easily catch ferries between the lakeside towns and experience incredible views of Lake Como from its waters.

Travel Tip: Brunate, a small town next to Como, is home to a cable car that, for a few euros, will take you high above Como’s city center and give you spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. 

• Where to Stay in Lake Como

Upmarket: Villa Lario Resort Mandello – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Casa Olea Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Residence Caffè Maya – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Verona 

The driving time between Lake Como and Verona takes around 2-3 hours along the SS36, which connects Como to Lecco and then to Verona. You will pass the picturesque towns of Brescia, Desenzano del Garda, and Peschiera del Garda on the shores of Lake Garda. If you have time to stop, Lake Garda is blessed with spectacular views of the Italian Alps.

Travel Tip:  The cable car from Malcesine up Mount Baldo, on the edge of Lake Garda, is a must-see attraction. It travels 580 meters, turning 360 degrees, to give draw-dropping views of the Italian alps. 

Verona’s Roman Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Why not take a tour of the Arena di Verona and learn about its incredible history? Our recommended Verona arena guided tour includes skip-the-line tickets so you can make the most of your time in the city.

Alternatively, Verona offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of enjoying a live opera performance within the amphitheater walls. Listening to Aida , Carmen , Il Barbiere di Siviglia , Rigoletto or La Traviata in the world’s largest amphitheater is an experience not to be missed!

A trip to Verona wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Piazza delle Erbe and the Piazza dei Signori, charming squares in the heart of the city, the Castelvecchio, a 14th-century fortress that houses the Castelvecchio Museum, and the famous balcony of Juliet’s House, the alleged home of Romeo and Juliet’s heroine.

• Where to Stay in Verona

Upmarket: Due Torri Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Accademia – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Leonardo Hotel Verona – Booking.com | Agoda

Italian Travel Ideas

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Monte Cassino: How to Visit the Abbey & War Graves

Southern Italy: Discover the Best 33 Places To Visit

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

Venice .

The drive from Verona to Venice is most enjoyable along the SS11. The drive will take you through the Veneto region, where you can see the charming town of Padua, known for its historic center and the Scrovegni Chapel.

With 14 million annual visitors, a day trip to Venice will be the busiest stop on your trip. Make sure to take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, the main waterway in Venice, and admire the city’s beautiful architecture. 

Travel Tip: A gondola ride will set you back €80 before sunset and €100 after sunset; it is definitely worth budgeting for this iconic experience!

Other top tourist destinations within Venice include St. Mark’s Basilica, a stunning Byzantine church, the Rialto Bridge, a beautiful stone bridge over the Grand Canal that offers views of the city, and the Piazza San Marco, the main square of Venice filled with lively cafes.

Travel Tip: No cars can enter Venice. As you arrive, head for Garage San Marco (you can reserve a space online in advance) in Piazzale Roma. From here you can walk or catch a water bus to Venice’s historic center. Booking a private water taxi into the city offers unrivaled views as you head into Venice, and it absolutely the best way to arrive!

RELATED POST: One Day in Venice – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

• Where to Stay in Venice

Upmarket: Sina Centurian Palace – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Palazzo Veneziano – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Saturnia & International – Booking.com | Agoda

Bologna 

Taking the SS309 and SS16 from Venice to Bologna will take you through the picturesque countryside of the Veneto and Emilia-Romagna regions. This route will offer spectacular views of small towns including Ferrara, known for its historic center, and Rovigo, situated on the Adigetto River.

Known as ‘ la Rossa, la Grassa e la Dotta ‘, meaning the red, the fat, and the learned, Bologna has so much to see and do. Red is in reference to the terracotta red rooftops of the historic center, fat refers to the delicious food and produce found in Bologna and the wider Emilia-Romagna region, and learned refers to Bologna University, founded in 1088, AND one of the most ancient and prestigious universities in the world.

Once you reach Bologna, the city of towers, you will be able to admire the beautiful architecture, art, and food that the city has to offer. Make sure to look out for the porticoes of Bologna, which UNESCO listed in 2021, and the two towers, the famous symbol of Bologna.

You can take a tour of the nearby Lamborghini and Ferrari Museums , visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca , or take this highly-rated secret traditional food tour and experience the delights of the local cuisine.

Travel Tip: If you’re on a budget or prefer to manage your own time, grab our free self-guided Bologna food tour and experience the best of Emilia-Romagna’s food. With suggestions for a DIY lunch in Bologna’s oldest osteria and information about the best delicatessens and wine bars, as well as tips about where to see authentic Italian pasta being made, this self-guided tour is a must for gastronomes!

• Where to Stay in Bologna

Upmarket: Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: PHI Hotel “Al Cappello Rosso” – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Social Hub Bologna – Booking.com | Agoda

Bologna Side Trips

These are the perfect side trips for foodies , and are literally off the road between Bologna and Cinque Terre!

First up is Modena , home to Balsamic Vinegar DOP or aceto balsamico , a delicious syrupy and intensely flavored vinegar made from grape must, and aged in wooden barrels. Balsamic vinegar is a quintessential Italian ingredient and must be produced exclusively in either Modena or Reggio Emilia to qualify for the highly prized protected designation of origin status. Find out more when you take this tour of an authentic balsamic producer and get to taste their vinegar with local foods.

Neat, head to Parma , home to Prosciutto di Parma DOP, uncooked, unsmoked, and dry-cured ham. Parma ham pairs wonderfully with Emilia-Romagna’s other famous food, Parmigiano Reggiano or parmesan cheese, also of protected origin. See how both are made and sample each with local wine on this highly-rated guided food tour .

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, containing the five charming towns of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare, all stacked on the rugged cliffs of the Liguria coast. 

Three unique ways to experience the unique national park of Cinque Terre are its hiking trails, which link the villages, relaxing with a boat tour to see the Cinque Terre from the water, and trying the locally caught seafood! Nessun Dorma in Manarola offers delicious seafood with views of spectacular Mediterranean sunsets.

Top Tip: If you decide to stay in Cinque Terre, head for delightful Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre towns. Parking in the five villages is very restricted – we suggest parking your car at Park Centro Stazione’s secure   underground parking garage at the La Spezia Centrale train station and getting the Cinque Terre express train or passenger ferry to Monterosso.

• Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

Upmarket: Sesta Terra – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Ca’ D’Andrean – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: La Taverna del Metallo Rooms – Booking.com | Agoda

The SS1 and SS326 connect Cinque Terre and Pisa in roughly an hour and a half. The SS1 will take you through coastal towns including Forte dei Marmi which provides incredible views of the Apuan Alps, or you can take the short detour to visit the Rennaisance-era city of Lucca.

A trip to Pisa wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Leaning Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb to the top of the Leaning Tower for unmatched views across Pisa. If heights aren’t your thing, capture the iconic photo supporting the Leaning Tower in your own two hands!

Other notable landmarks in Pisa include the Cathedral of Pisa, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale.

A visit to Pisa would not be complete without a visit to the Ristorante Trattoria da Mario . Just a five minute walk from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, this highly regarded hidden gem serves an array of traditional Tuscan food and wine. 

• Where to Stay in Pisa

Upmarket: Palazzo Cini – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Di Stefano – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel La Pace – Booking.com | Agoda

The drive from Pisa to Florence takes roughly 1 hour, depending on the traffic conditions. For a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, take the SS67 and visit the small town of San Miniato, known for its truffles, the hunting of which is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Once you reach Florence, you can visit famous landmarks including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, known for its beautiful dome, the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world, and Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge over the Arno river.

A trip to Tuscany isn’t complete without a visit to a local winery. Surrounding Florence is the Chianti region, famous for its full-bodied red wines, olive oils, and meats. Take a tour of this area from Florence and experience rolling hills, historic stone castles, and iconic cypress trees. 

RELATED POST: One Day in Florence – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

• Where to Stay in Florence

Upmarket: Hotel Spadai – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Soprarno Suites – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Perseo – Booking.com | Agoda

San Gimignano  

The trip from Florence to San Gimignano is roughly 60km, taking just over an hour to travel south. We recommend taking a detour to the Azienda Agricola Montefioralle Winery , a small, family-run winery serving Chianti Classico paired with Tuscan food. This incredible vineyard offers spectacular views of green, rolling hills synonymous with Italy’s Tuscan region. 

San Gimignano is a small town known for its medieval architecture, including its 14 towers that have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend stretching your legs and using the local hiking trails to enjoy panoramic views of this Italian region. Alternatively, relax and explore the town’s many shops and restaurants. 

A vineyard wine tasting and lunch in the heart of Tuscany is on everyone’s bucket list. San Gimignano, with its excellent wineries, is the perfect spot for this experience. In fact, San Gimignano has its own famous white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, which has been produced in the area since the 14th century.

RELATED POST: Tuscany Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

• Where to Stay in San Gimignano  

Upmarket: Agriturismo Mormoraia – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Bel Soggiorno – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Relais Cappuccina – Booking.com | Agoda

The short drive from San Gimignano to Siena will take you through attractive towns including Monteriggioni, famous for its medieval walls that give stunning views across Tuscany.

Siena is a beautifully preserved historic city at the height of Tuscany. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for the Palio horse race that takes place around the Piazza del Campo twice a year in July.

The city also boasts the magnificent Cathedral of Siena, a gothic masterpiece with intricate marble floor mosaics, the Torre del Mangia, a tower offering panoramic views of the city, the Basilica of San Domenico, the Museo Civico, and the Palazzo Comunale. 

Top Tip: Make sure to stop for lunch at one of the many lively restaurants lining the streets around the main square and sample delicious ribollita , a traditional Tuscan soup made with vegetables and bread.

• Where to Stay in Siena

Upmarket: Palazzetto Rosso – Art Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Athena – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Palazzo di Valli – Booking.com | Agoda

Siena Side Trips

As you head south through the wonderful landscape of Tuscany, there are a few places you may want to stop and enjoy.

The first is the hill village of Montepulciano , famous for the classic, rustic wine of the same name, and a masterpiece of ancient city walls, cobbled streets, charming piazzas, restaurants, and craft shops that can easily draw you in for a deliciously pleasant afternoon and evening. The town is also one of the best spots on this itinerary for a  wine-tasting tour of a local vineyard , to understand the history and process of making wine in Italy.

From Montepulciano, take a detour east on the scenic SP146 to San Quirico d’Orcia, through the iconic Val d’Orcia, one of Europe’s best driving routes . This journey will take you through vineyards and olive groves, and you’ll pass row upon row of majestic cypress trees lining the roads and on the skyline, and you might even spot the famous house from the film ‘Gladiator’, some of which was filmed in Tuscany.

The final stop on our northern Italian road trip is Italy’s capital city, Rome . The drive from Siena to Rome takes over two and a half hours and can be particularly busy due to traffic during the summer. Once you arrive in Rome, we suggest parking your rental car in a parking garage, or dropping it off at the airport and exploring the main attractions on foot.

Rome’s world-famous landmarks include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. The Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, is also located within Rome and is home to the Pope and priceless artworks and architecture, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. 

Other popular attractions include the Spanish Steps, the Piazza Navona, and the Roman Forum. As the Italian capital, unsurprisingly the city offers a wide variety of delicious Italian cuisine, from pizza and pasta to gelato and wine!

RELATED POST: Rome in a Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

• Where to Stay in Rome

Upmarket: Casa Fabbrini – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Tree Charme Augusto Luxury Suites – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Viminale View Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip.

A northern Italian road trip, from Milan to Rome, offers a spectacular route to experience the diverse culture and history of Italy, making it one of the best road trips in Europe . Along the way, you can visit some of Italy’s most iconic cities, including Milan, Florence, and Rome.

You can take in the beautiful countryside, indulge in delicious Italian cuisine and wines, and explore the many museums, art galleries, and UNESCO world heritage sites that the region has to offer. 

Overall, a northern Italian road trip will be an unforgettable adventure that you will cherish for a lifetime!

Northern Italy Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Italy.

• Search for affordable flights to Italy with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Italy with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Italy with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable car rentals in Italy with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Are you looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out these top posts…

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

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Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

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10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary: 2 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

If you’re planning a Northern Italy itinerary, it can be tough to map out the ideal route if you only have a limited amount of time. There is a lot to see in the north of this diverse country — from beautiful cities to storied lakes to incredible coastline — that there is absolutely no way one can pack everything into just 10 days in Northern Italy.

However, if you know what you want to see and adequately plan out your time, you can see a lot in 10 days if you simply prioritise your top destinations.

Whether you’re after a Milan-Venice-Lake Como itinerary or you’re searching for something that loops you through Emilia-Romagna and Liguria, the routes below are sure to help you plan out your perfect trip to Northern Italy!

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Northern Italy

Whether you’re looking to map out a route by train or would like to opt for a North Italy road trip, it is important to discuss A) how to get to your desired destination and B) how you plan to get around whilst there.

We will start with the first point. Both of the routes outlined below begin in Milan and that is for good reason – Milan Malpensa Airport is the second highest traffic airport in Italy and it’s also the second-largest city in the country. This means that it is the most logical starting-off point if you’re visiting Northern Italy.

There are a few other airports near Milan that can also be a point of entry into the region – especially if you’re flying a budget airline from elsewhere in Italy or from Europe in general.

I’m speaking of the Bergamo airport, which is often billed as the “Milan Bergamo Airport” but do keep in mind that this airport is in the city of Bergamo and is located about one hour from Milan’s train station itself – though it is easy to reach Milan.

There are other airports in most of the cities that are mentioned in both routes, including Venice, Bologna and Genoa, however, they are smaller and not as many flights go to them from as many destinations.

When it comes to getting around on your trip to Northern Italy, you also have a few options open to you. By far the easiest way to go on either of the routes listed below would be by car. This will help you save time and also allow you to make stops along the way and reach further-flung places.

Driving in Northern Italy is easy and holds none of the stressors that you may experience in the south of the country.

You don’t need a car to get around the major cities like Milan, Venice, Bologna, Bergamo, Verona and Genoa, meaning that it makes the most sense to find a place to park your car and use public transit (or your own two feet) while in these destinations. However, having your own vehicle can make day trips exceptionally easy and convenient.

Having your own car is also ideal for exploring Lakes Como and Garda as, again, it gives you a lot more flexibility. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices on rental cars.

However, if you don’t want to rent a car or don’t drive for whatever reason, both of the routes outlined below are also doable via train with a few considerations in mind.

You likely won’t be able to see as much as you could if you had your own vehicle just because coordinating timetables can be tricky, but that doesn’t mean you will have any less of a fulfilling trip to Northern Italy. You can browse schedules and book train tickets here.

Lombardy & Veneto in 10 Days

This itinerary for Northern Italy is perfect for those who want to see the well-known highlights of the region including Milan, Venice and Lake Como. There are also a couple of lesser-visited gems on this route to ensure you have a varied and interesting time exploring the Lombardy and Veneto regions – two of the best places in Northern Italy to visit.

Day 1 – Milan

Plan to spend the first day of your Northern Italy trip exploring the highlights of Milan . Italy’s second-largest city has a lot to offer visitors and you need to spend at least 2 full days getting to know the city.

Your first day should be dedicated to seeing all of the main sites of the city. Begin your day at the iconic Milan Duomo – the city’s main cathedral. A visit here can take several hours and is truly spectacular. You can pre-book tickets here .

You can fill the rest of your day wandering by the Royal Palace, the Museo de Novecento, the Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II and, of course, the famous Teatro La Scala. Plan to spend at least two nights in Milan before moving on to your next destination.

Where to Stay in Milan

Lancaster Hotel  – If you’re visiting the Lombardy capital on a mid-range budget, then this classical hotel is a great option. Located in the centre of Milan within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, they have a range of great rooms to choose from and breakfast included for guests each morning.

Castello Guest House Milano   – This luxury guesthouse is an excellent choice for those after a bit of a splurge while visiting Milan. Well-located for exploring the highlights of the city within a stone’s throw, they have countless lovely rooms on offer and plenty of other amenities to enjoy, as well. 

QUO Milano  – Budget and solo travellers will love this centrally-located hostel. Well situated for exploring the best Milan has to offer, it is one of the highest-rated hostels in the city and they offer both dorms and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Milan hotels!

Day 2 – Milan

Your second day in Milan should be spent getting to know the city just a little bit better. Check out some of the city’s smaller churches, some cool areas and, of course, one of the most famous paintings in the world – da Vinci’s “Last Supper.”

Start your day at the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio before making your way over to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Delle Grazie where you can view the Last Supper. Afterwards, you can go over and explore Castello Sforzesco and tranquil Sempione Park.

End your day by exploring the hip and happening Navigli district, which is a great place to partake in Italy’s favourite pre-dinner pastime – aperitivo!

Day 3 – Lake Como

Day 3 of this North Italy itinerary takes you out of Milan and to beautiful Lake Como . Keep in mind that it is best and easiest to explore Lake Como if you have your own car, however, it is still possible to see a lot of the villages by relying on the extensive ferry system around the lake.

Many treat Lake Como as a day trip from Milan , however, it is best to spend at least a couple of days here to really get a good feel for this beautiful area.

Plan to spend your first day in Lake Como exploring the iconic villages around the lake – Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna. These three villages are well-connected by ferry and you can very easily enjoy this day without your own car.

Each village is small and has its own charm so make sure to take your time to get lost in the beautiful little streets and take in tons of incomparable lakeside views.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

B&B Villa Rosalinda – This bed and breakfast in the quiet town of Dongo in the north of Lake Como is a great option for those looking for a tranquil escape on the lake. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and offer breakfast to guests each morning.

Villa Lario Resort Mandello – Luxury travellers will swoon over this beautiful hotel located in the town of Mandello del Lario – about fifteen minutes south of quaint Varenna. They have countless luxe rooms to choose from and an extensive list of amenities to ensure that your stay is absolutely perfect.

Miralago B&B and Apartments – This bed and breakfast located just outside of Bellagio offers both en-suite rooms and some apartment options for those looking for a comfortable self-catering notion. They are in a great area for exploring Lake Como and breakfast is available upon request.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lake Como hotels!

Day 4 – Lake Como

Dedicate day 4 to exploring some of Lake Como’s larger cities and also taking in one of the lake’s famous villas and their beautiful gardens.

Spend your morning touring a villa – there are countless to choose from on Lake Como. It’s best to get to whichever villa you choose as early as possible as they can get very busy and popular, especially if you’re travelling in the high season.

Your afternoon can be spent exploring the cities of Como and Lecco, both located on either end of the south of the lake.

Keep in mind that if you’re keen to visit both of these cities in a day, it’s best if you have your own car. If you’re relying on the ferry system on Lake Como, then plan to simply spend your afternoon in Como and maybe go on a cruise or boat tour on the lake to enjoy it from a different perspective.

Day 5 – Bergamo

On day 5, it’s time to leave Lake Como and drive about an hour to the lovely city of Bergamo. Though its airport acts as a hub for a number of budget airlines across Europe, not enough visitors take the time to explore this delightful city and this is really a shame – it has a lot to offer.

Its compact nature means that you only really need to spend one day in Bergamo to do it justice. Split over two parts – the Citta Alta and Citta Bassa – the majority of the historic sites lie in the Citta Alta, so that is where you will likely dedicate the majority of your time.

You can take the funicular up to the Citta Alta before taking in Piazza Vecchia – Bergamo’s main square. Take another funicular up to the Castello di San Viglia where you can get fantastic views of the city from above. We recommend walking down and making a stop in the botanical gardens on your way.

Later, explore the Duomo di Bergamo and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. And if you want even more fantastic views of the city, head up the Campanone tower. Then make your way down, on foot, to the Citta Bassa. You will walk along the Venetian Walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

End your day in Citta Bassa for aperitivo and dinner with the locals.

Where to Stay in Bergamo

B&B Entro Le Mura – Located in Citta Alta close to all the top sites in Bergamo, this bed and breakfast is an excellent option for mid-range travellers. They offer a number of cosy rooms to choose from and, of course, breakfast is included for guests to enjoy each morning.

Petronilla – This luxury hotel located in Citta Bassa is great for those looking for a plush stay in Bergamo. Well located for exploring all this wonderful little city has to offer, they have a number of rooms on offer, there is an on-site restaurant/bar and they even allow pets.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bergamo hotels!

Day 6 – Lake Garda

From Bergamo, it’s time to head to the incredible Lake Garda for the sixth day of your itinerary. Though you could easily spend 2 or 3 days in Lake Garda, you can get a good feel for the lake and some of its towns in just one day, as well.

Where you decide to go in Lake Garda really depends on if you have a car or not, as the lake can be difficult to navigate without your own vehicle. Keeping that in mind, if you’re doing your Northern Italy itinerary by train, plan to explore the area in and around Sirmione, which has easy train connections.

If you have a car, you have the option to go wherever you choose on the lake, however, keep in mind that this is the largest lake in Italy and it may take some time to drive between places.

You can opt to spend the morning in Sirmione before heading up the western side of Garda and exploring the towns of Salo, Maderno and Gargnano.

Alternatively, you could spend your time at the north of Lake Garda and explore the towns of Limone and Riva del Garda before heading down the eastern coast to lovely Malcesine.

Plan to spend the next two nights on Lake Garda – there are lots of lovely towns to stay in on the lake .

Where to Stay in Lake Garda

Ambienthotel PrimaLuna – This hotel is an excellent mid-range hotel in Lake Garda. Located in the lovely town of Malcesine, they have a number of lovely rooms to choose from and there is even a great swimming pool to enjoy and a fantastic breakfast available for guests each morning.

Grand Hotel Fasano – Located in Gardone Riviera between the towns of Salo and Maderno on Lake Garda’s western side, this hotel is perfect for those after a bit of luxury when visiting Italy’s largest lake. They have a number of plush rooms to choose from, two swimming pools to enjoy and an on-site bar, spa and wellness centre.

Blue Sky Garda – This two-bedroom apartment can be a great option on Lake Garda if you’re after the convenience and privacy of your own flat. Situated in the town of Malcesine on the eastern side of the lake, its location is perfect for exploring the area.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lake Garda hotels!

Day 7 – Verona

From Lake Garda, it’s time to head to nearby Verona. An oft-overlooked city in the Veneto region, Verona is perhaps most well known for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet , however, this city has a lot more to offer than just that.

Much like Lake Garda, you could easily spend 2 or 3 days in Verona , however, you can also see the highlights of this compact city in just a simple day trip , which is what we recommend here.

During your day in Verona, make sure not to miss the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s house) and, of course, the Verona Arena.

The arena is an impressive Roman colosseum that attracts only a fraction of the crowds found at the most famous one in Rome. There are plenty of other Roman ruins to enjoy in Verona, not just this incredible arena.

Plan to spend your night on Lake Garda before heading to Venice the next day.

Day 8 – Venice

Generally, no visit to Northern Italy is considered complete without visiting the iconic city of Venice.

This is a city that needs no introduction but keep in mind that the city has been struggling under the stresses of overtourism and it is important to spend a good amount of time here in order to travel a bit more sustainably and have the most benefit to the local economy. That is why we recommend spending up to 3 days in Venice.

Spend your first day in this city of canals taking in the top and most iconic sites. These include, of course, the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. Make sure to take your time to simply enjoy the ambience of this incredible city and even get out onto the canals on a gondola!

Spend your evening in a cosy taverna eating local fare and simply enjoying the final destination on your fantastic itinerary through Northern Italy.

Where to Stay in Venice

Ca’ Angeli – This hotel in the San Polo neighbourhood only has 6 rooms on offer, but it is a great choice for those looking for a wonderful, central place to stay when exploring Venice. They have a number of great amenities for guests to enjoy along with a wonderful breakfast on offer each morning.

Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – Located within spitting distance of the iconic Rialto Bridge, this is the perfect place for a luxury escape to Venice. Couples are sure to love the chic rooms on offer and there is also an on-site bar and wonderful breakfast included each morning.

Combo Venezia – Those looking to save as much money in notoriously expensive Venice as possible will love this small, locally-run hostel. Perfect for solo travellers, as well, it is located in the cool Cannaregio neighbourhood and they have a range of dorms and privates available along with great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Venice hotels!

Day 9 – Venice

Your second day in Venice should be spent digging a little bit deeper and enjoying some of the lesser visited neighbourhoods of the city – the places where the Venice locals live away from the tourist crowds.

Start your morning by wandering around the historic San Polo neighbourhood before making your way over to the lovely Dorsoduro neighbourhood. Cross over the Accademia Bridge back to the historic, central San Marco neighbourhood to round out your afternoon.

In the evening, head to the lively Cannaregio neighbourhood in order to get a real local feel and to dine at a wonderful Venetian restaurant!

Day 10 – Venice

On the final day of your trip, you’re still in Venice and it’s time to explore some of the islands off the coast of this incredible city. The most famous of these islands include Murano and Burano, known for their incredibly colourful houses and charming atmosphere.

If the season is right, you could also use this day as a beach day, lounging on one of the many sandy stretches close to the city. You can book a tour here.

Alternatively, you could opt to go on a day trip to the nearby Prosecco region and sip some of the area’s eponymous Sparking wine. Another popular day trip option is to the town of Treviso, which is located just outside of Venice and worth the journey.

Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna & Liguria in 10 Days

Also beginning in Milan, this 10-day itinerary is great for those looking for something different from the routes that include the lakes and Venice (such as the one outlined above).

Winding you through gastronomic Emilia-Romagna before ending in gorgeous Liguria, you’re sure to fall in love with this area of Northern Italy.

Begin day one of this route through Northern Italy in the vibrant city of Milan. As mentioned in the route outlined above, spend this first day exploring the highlights of the city centre, including the Milan Duomo and the Teatro La Scala.

End your day like the Milanese do with an aperitivo before heading out to dinner. Plan to spend three nights in Milan for this itinerary, though we will only spend 2 full days exploring the city proper.

Your second day in Milan should be spent seeing all of the sites in the city that you didn’t get to on your first day in the city. This includes various churches, viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper and relaxing in a tranquil park.

Spend your evening exploring the hip and happening Navigli district where you can get an authentic taste of Milanese life away from throngs of tourist crowds.

Day 3 – Lake Como or Bergamo

The third day in Milan should be spent on a day trip – where to is up to you! Milan makes for an excellent base to explore a couple of nearby areas, so you have a couple of options open to you.

If you’d like to head to the Italian lakes, then a day trip to Lake Como is definitely in the cards. You can hop on a train to Varenna and spend the day riding the ferries between beautiful Menaggio, Bellagio and Varenna itself. Alternatively, you can organise a guided tour here.

Alternatively, if you want to explore a city that isn’t on the radar of a lot of international visitors to the Lombardy region, consider going on a day trip to historic Bergamo.

Bergamo has a lot to offer visitors and it is an absolutely beautiful city to visit and spend some time in. One day is definitely enough to see all of the highlights of this lovely place.

Day 4 – Modena

Day 4 sees you heading to the incredible Emilia-Romagna region. Your final destination for today will be the region’s capital of Bologna, however, make sure to make a pit stop in the charming city of Modena first.

Modena is known, primarily, for being the homeland of Balsamic vinegar and heading to an acetaia (the place where traditional vinegar is made) is an excellent thing to do in the city. However, there is a lot more on offer here than just that – especially if you’re into food!

Spend your day wandering through the incredible Mercato Albinelli to see what fresh produce and local pastas are made fresh here. Then simply take the time to get lost in the city. Wander through the winding streets and grand piazzas, take in the lively Cathedral and simply enjoy this lovely city.

Modena is located only about a 30-minute drive or train ride from Bologna, so it’s not difficult to end your day in the latter city.

Where to Stay in Bologna

B&B Chez Moi Lame 57  – This cute boutique B&B is perfect for those after a romantic escape to Bologna. They offer a handful of chic, quaint, clean and comfortable rooms on offer and there is a breakfast voucher given to guests daily to dine in a nearby local cafe.

Hotel Metropolitan – If it’s luxury you’re after in Emilia-Romagna’s capital, then this plush hotel is the perfect option. They have an excellent location in the heart of Bologna, myriad chic rooms on offer and countless luxe amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic.

Dopa Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this hip hostel located in the centre of Bologna. They have a range of both dorm beds and private rooms on offer, breakfast is included each morning and it’s a great place to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bologna hotels!

Day 5 – Bologna

The fifth day of this route through Northern Italy sees you exploring Emilia-Romagna’s capital city of Bologna . Home to ragu bolognese and plenty of other gastronomic delights, Bologna has a lot to offer visitors beyond its food scene (but it’s totally fine to visit just for that, as well!).

Start your day in Bologna in the Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square. Take in the towers and the Basilica di San Petronio before wandering down Via Rizzoli, the city’s main drag filled with shops. Spend your afternoon and evening exploring the university area – Bologna is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

End your day in one of the city’s many restaurants dining on local fare and enjoying every minute.

Day 6 – Bologna

On day six of this itinerary, you have the option to either continue exploring Bologna or to go on a day trip to nearby Parma . If you choose the former, there are a number of things that you can choose to occupy your time.

One of the best things to do in Bologna is to go on a food tour – some of the most famous Italian dishes come from this city and it is a great chance to sample them with context.

If you choose to go on a day trip, you can’t go wrong with beautiful Parma. Parma is well-known for being the homeplace of such delicacies as prosciutto di Parma and, of course, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

You can sample these to your heart’s desire in Parma, along with exploring what is one of the most charming and historic cities in the region.

Day 7 – Cinque Terre

When you get to your seventh day of this trip through Northern Italy, it’s time to head to another region and area of the country – Liguria and, more specifically, Cinque Terre .

Literally translating to “five villages,” this area is made up of five lovely little towns situated on the dramatic Ligurian coast. These postcard-perfect towns are a can’t-miss destination on this itinerary!

Spend your first day in the main city near Cinque Terra, La Spezia. Though not one of the five villages itself, it is absolutely beautiful and it has a lot to offer visitors.

You can also use this day to explore two of the five villages. Take the time to wander around beautiful Riomaggiore and charming Manarola before calling it a day and resting up for another perfect day of exploration tomorrow.

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

L’Approdo Dell’Ammiraglio – Those after a good mid-range place to base themselves for exploring Cinque Terre will love this guesthouse in La Spezia. They have numerous lovely and bright rooms on offer and an unbeatable location.

Miramare Apartments&Suites – This aparthotel is great for those after the convenience of an entire apartment with all the benefits of a traditional hotel. Located in La Spezia within easy reach of Cinque Terre, they have a number of different fully-furnished apartments available that range in size.

La Serra Sul Mare – Located in the town of Monterosso, this is one of the best places to stay in Cinque Terre for those looking for a luxury option. They have an unbeatable location within five minutes of the beach, all rooms have their own balcony and there are countless other amenities offered.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cinque Terre hotels!

Day 8 – Cinque Terre

Your second day in Cinque Terre should be spent exploring more of the five lovely villages. Start your day in Monterosso al Mare – the largest of five towns that make up Cinque Terre. Known for its beautiful beaches, incredible scenery and charming old town.

From Monterosso, head to the village of Vernazza. This is a gorgeous fortified town with, like all other villages in the region, incredible sea views to enjoy. In fact, this is a great place to enjoy a sunset cruise on the sea, if it suits your fancy.

Day 9 – Genoa

The final destination for this particular 10-day Northern Italy itinerary should end in the Ligurian capital of Genoa. This seaside city is absolutely beautiful and full of interesting things to do – in fact, plan to spend 2 days in Genoa to round out your trip to the north of Italy.

Your first day in Genoa should begin by wandering down Via Garibaldi, the city’s main drag. After getting your bearings, head over to the Palazzi dei Rolli. Once you’ve explored this former palace, visit the San Lorenzo Cathedral.

Of course, no visit to Genoa would be complete without gorging yourself on delicious pesto pasta — the famous basil, pine nut and parmesan sauce hails from this city.

Where to Stay in Genoa

B&B Dormire Dai Grimaldi – Mid-range travellers will love this quaint and cosy bed and breakfast in the centre of Genoa. They offer a number of different en-suite rooms, a lovely communal lounge area and there is a hearty breakfast included each morning.

Hotel Astoria – If you’re after luxury in the Ligurian capital, then this plush hotel is a great option. For those looking for a high-end option, then this luxe hotel is a great choice. They have an excellent central location for exploring Genoa and have a range of lovely rooms to choose from, along with numerous other amenities.

OStellin Genova Hostel – For those looking for a budget option or a great social atmosphere while travelling, then this hostel is a great option. They offer both private rooms and dorm beds and have an excellent location for exploring all Genoa has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Genoa hotels!

Day 10 – Genoa

Dedicate the final day of this itinerary to getting to know Genoa just a little bit better. Spend your morning in Genoa along the seaside and visit the renowned Genoa Aquarium which is the largest aquarium in Italy and the largest of its kind in all of Europe.

There is a lot to see here so plan to spend a good amount of time learning about all of the sea creatures here.

In the afternoon, take the time to get lost in the lovely Porto Antico (old port) neighbourhood along the harbour. Dine on delicious, fresh seafood and really make sure to savour you last day of your Northern Italian adventure.

Have 14 Days in Northern Italy?

If you, for example, have 14 days in Northern Italy or more to spend, your options are virtually unlimited. There are so many incredible areas to explore that you won’t struggle to figure out where to go.

If you’re following the first route on this itinerary, you could easily add a visit to the Dolomites after exploring Venice. Spending time in getting to know the regions of Trentino and South Tyrol and taking in the incredible views of the Italian Alps is always worth it with stunning mountain peaks and lakes like Lagi di Braies.

Alternatively, a good place to visit when moving on from Genoa is the city of Turin . As one of Italy’s largest cities, it can be overlooked. However, there is a lot to do in Turin (and in the Piedmont region , in general) that it is definitely.

You could also choose to fuse the two itineraries together for a longer trip through Northern Italy. From Venice in the first route, head to Bologna, Cinque Terre, Genoa and beyond!

Northern Italy is one of the most fascinating regions of the country to explore. With so much to offer, mapping out the ideal 10-day itinerary can be a bit overwhelming, but once you weigh out your priorities, you’re sure to have an exceptional trip.

Are you planning to visit Northern Italy? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Maggie. It was great reading about northern Italy. We’re planning a southern Italy trip soon. Naples and amalfi coast and around. Could you please send me an itinerary for 15-18 days. Thanks. Paul

Hi Paul, you may find some inspiration in one of our generic Italy itineraries ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/10-day-italy-itinerary/ ), our Amalfi Coast itinerary ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/amalfi-coast-itinerary/ ), our Puglia itinerary ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/puglia-itinerary/ ) and our Sicily itinerary ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/sicily-itinerary/ ). Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

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Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

Discover the charm of the Northern Italy region with our carefully designed itineraries. From the romantic canals of Venice to the artistic wonders of Florence, the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre and trendy Milan, these five Northern Italy itineraries promise an unforgettable adventure for every traveller.

See our itineraries below, or get inspired by duration: 5 days - 7-days - 10 days - 14 days - South Italy

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Italy, created by local experts

8 days  / from 2622 USD

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

8 days  / from 3258 USD

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

16 days  / from 3258 USD

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

Itinerary #1: From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive 16-day Northern Italy trip .

The 16-day Italian adventure begins in Venice, where travellers are transferred to a hotel. On day two , a private guide leads a city tour, ending with a gondola ride.

Day three explores the Venetian lagoon, visiting Burano and Murano islands. Day four is a leisure day in Venice.

Day five involves a 3-hour journey to Milan , where travellers have free time to explore or engage in arranged activities. Day six includes a walking tour of Milan's historic sites.

Day seven takes travellers on a 1-hour train journey to Como . Day eight features a short ride to Lugano, Switzerland , renowned for its picturesque surroundings and mild climate.

Day nine offers a guided boat trip on Lake Como, providing stunning views. Day ten is a free day for leisure activities.

Day eleven involves a transfer to Cinque Terre , with the evening free to explore. Day twelve presents an extensive tour of Cinque Terre, visiting Riomaggiore, Monterosso, Vernazza, and Manarola.

Day thirteen is another leisure day at Cinque Terre. Day fourteen includes a visit to Pisa's famous Leaning Tower and Lucca's Renaissance wall before transferring to Florence.

Day fifteen features a private tour of Florence's iconic landmarks, including the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Ponte Vecchio.

On day sixteen , the tour concludes, and travellers are transferred to the airport for departure. Read more .

St Mark's Square from the Grand Canal. Venice, Italy © volkova natalia/Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the Northern Italy itinerary.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now .

Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio in Milan © Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: Supercars in the Heart of Northern Italy

Discover the world’s finest sports cars in the Italian cities of Bologna and Modena and see beautiful Venice and Florence as part of this luxury automotive 12-day Italian trip .

This 12-day Italian adventure begins in Venice with a private water taxi ride to the hotel. Enjoy a private walking tour of Venice and a gondola ride through its canals on day two .

On day three , take a train to Bologna with transfers included. Day four offers a visit to the Lamborghini factory and museum, witnessing the creation of renowned sports cars.

Embark on a small group Vespa tour to the hills outside Bologna on the fifth day . On day six , visit the Maserati Museum in Modena , with a private walking tour of the city and a wine tasting.

Day seven is a leisure day in Bologna. Day eight is dedicated to Ferrari, visiting the Enzo Ferrari House Museum , Maranello town, and enjoying a guided tour of the Ferrari factory and museum. Experience driving a Ferrari on the racetrack.

On day nine , visit the Pagani factory and have lunch in Castelvetro. In the afternoon, visit the Ducati Museum and Factory. Take a short train ride to Florence for a day of leisure on day ten .

On day eleven , enjoy a half-day walking tour of Florence with an English-speaking guide, visiting iconic landmarks and the Uffizi Gallery.

On day twelve , bid farewell to Italy as a private driver takes you to the airport for departure. Read more .

Bologna, Italy @ Shutterstock

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Modena, Italy @ Shutterstock

Itinerary #3: Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan with this self-drive Northern Italy itinerary .

This 8-day Italian adventure begins with a rental car pickup at Milan International Airport. On day one , you'll check into your hotel in Milan and have the day to explore at your leisure.

Day two starts with a tour of Milan's iconic sites, beginning at Castello Sforzesco. After the tour, you'll drive to Lake Garda , stopping at the picturesque resort of Sirmione en route.

Day three is dedicated to exploring the beautiful lakeside towns around Lake Garda, known for their Roman heritage and stunning landscapes.

Day four takes you to Verona , the city of Romeo and Juliet, for a fascinating city tour.

On day five , you'll enjoy a walking tour of Como, a charming town on the shores of Lake Como. You can then choose to catch a boat to Bellagio, another picturesque town on the lake.

Day six is all about exploring Lake Lugano, situated between Lake Como and Maggiore , and straddling the Swiss-Italian border. On day seven , you will explore Stresa, a serene town on Lake Maggiore, and the Borromean Islands, known for their beauty and history.

Day eight involves driving back to Milan International Airport to return your rental car and catch your departure flight. Read more .

Verona image during summer sunset © Rudy Balasko/Shutterstock

Check this overview of the Northern Italy itinerary. 

Fascinated by the itinerary? Don't wait, book this trip now .

Lake Maggiore, Italy @ Shutterstock

Itinerary #4: Romantic Venice

Indulge in a charming weekend getaway in Venice, a captivating city nestled in the heart of Northern Italy. This delightful 4-day trip offers a pleasant walking tour, immersing you in the rich history, art, and architecture of Venice.

Day one welcomes you as you arrive at Marco Polo International Airport and are transferred to your hotel, leaving the day free to explore Venice at your leisure.

On day two , embark on a private walking tour, beginning at the Saint Mark's area, where you'll delve into the historical significance of the powerful maritime empire of the Mediterranean. The tour includes iconic landmarks such as The Doges' Palace, St. Mark's Square, and the Basilica, each showcasing unparalleled beauty and historical importance.

Day three commences with a sumptuous breakfast, followed by a picturesque 30-minute gondola ride through Venice's waterways, allowing you to soak in the city's unique ambience. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace, culminating in a delightful three-course dinner at a centrally located restaurant (drinks not included).

Enjoy a free day on day four , allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Venice and discover its hidden gems.

As your journey comes to an end on day five , check out of your hotel after breakfast. A private transfer will take you to Marco Polo International Airport, leaving you with cherished memories and the desire to return to this mesmerizing destination once again. Read more .

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Apple Kullathida/Shutterstock

Dreaming of exploring? Turn your dreams into reality and book this trip now .

Venice, Canal, Italy @ Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Trieste - a combination of hiking and culture

Take this 5-day trip to Northern Italy and truly get to know the charming city of Trieste. This journey goes beyond simple sightseeing, offering a unique perspective from the locals' point of view.

Day one welcomes you in Trieste with a warm reception at the train station or airport, followed by a leisurely exploration of the city centre. Marvel at the historic streets and squares, the seafront, and the renowned Piazza Unità.

Day two takes you on a scenic journey to the Karst plateau. Hop on the iconic Opicina tram to ascend to the plateau. Embark on a picturesque walk with panoramic views of the city and sea, leading you to the splendid Miramare Castle Park.

On day three , embark on a discovery of the equestrian park of Lipica, an oasis of tranquillity and home to the elegant Lipizzan horses. After a guided tour and serene strolls in the estate, visit the valley of the Blessed Virgin of Lourdes.

Day four begins with a trip to the Rosandra Valley Reserve. Walk along the ancient salt road, enjoying views of the Rosandra stream with its waterfall and natural pools.

Conclude your trip on day five with a visit to the awe-inspiring Grotta Gigante, the largest cave in the world. At the end of the visit, you will return to the city. From here, once you have recovered any luggage left at the deposit of your facility, you can continue your journey independently or return home. Read more .

Trieste, Italy @ Shutterstock

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Fisherman, Trieste, Italy @ Shutterstock

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The Perfect Northern Italy Itinerary: 5 Ideas For The Trip Of Your Dreams

Last Updated on March 24, 2024 by Michela

All of Italy’s regions offer something unique, and in this guide the spotlight is on the north. If you are having trouble narrowing down the top places to visit for you or you’re starting from scratch seeking inspiration, you’ll find the perfect northern Italy itinerary for you in this post, along with tips for visiting this part of the country.

I live in northern Italy, so the area not only has a special place in my heart, but I’ve also traveled all around it!

There is truly so much to do and see that one trip may not be enough, which is why I have curated 5 northern Italy itineraries that play to certain strengths: one for those who want to see the most famous locations, one for outdoor adventurers, one for city-lovers, one for couples, and one for foodies, so you experience a little bit of everything.

Hopefully all these options make clearer what is at the top of your northern Italy bucket list!

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Creating The Perfect Northern Italy Itinerary

Before we get into the fun part (the destinations!), I must let you know all the practicalities of planning a northern Italy itinerary.

How Long Should A Northern Italy Itinerary Be?

The big question when planning a trip is always: how long you should spend in northern Italy?

Ideally, a robust northern Italy itinerary falls somewhere between 10 and 14 days.

If you have longer, great! You can go more off-the-beaten-path and deep dive into the culture, taking the slow travel route.

If you have less time and want to see a lot, plan out your transportation well and get ready for days jam-packed with things to do and breathtaking places to see!

I’ll be recommending the stops on the itineraries in a certain order, but not necessarily saying you should be spending one day here and two days there. That is up to you and the flexibility of your travel dates!

I will sprinkle in extra tips and suggestions based on my own experience (so you don’t have to make the same mistakes I have) and extra destinations as well, so you can play with how much extra time you have and be informed about other places in the area well-worth seeing.

Want specific help planning your northern Italy itinerary? Check out my trip planning services , where I give you a personalized itinerary with all the suggestions and tips specific to your desires and needs!

When is the best time to visit Northern Italy?

As a resident of northern Italy, I can share with certainty that the best time to visit is either June or September. In these two months you get the best weather, the very beginning or the tail end of the busy summer tourist season and, if you book ahead, you can get great deals on reservations for rental cars and accommodation.

For those adventure seekers and outdoor lovers, you may also enjoy traveling through the Italian Alps in winter during peak ski season , which is early December to late February.

Read my guides to Italy in Spring , Italy in Summer , Italy in Fall , and Italy in Winter to dive deeper into which season may be a better fit for you.

How To Get Around Northern Italy

Another necessary and important element of visiting northern Italy is knowing how you’ll get around. Northern Italy is the mostly well-connected by public transportation that can take you just about anywhere.

Northern Italy is, however, partially composed of the Italian Alps which presents a challenge for train travel. While you’ll easily be able to get from city to city and even town to town using regional trains, going through the mountains will mean there are less stops and train options, or there may just be no options at all.

I recommend for anyone visiting the Italian Alps either rent a car or plan to book a tour that handles transportation throughout the day’s activities.

Bus travel is also an option, but comes with its own challenges: one, understanding regional bus routes in a short period of time, and two, using coach buses means you’ll get dropped off in one spot and you don’t have much freedom to travel around.

Here’s a more in-depth look at how to get around northern Italy:

There are both national train lines and regional train lines, meaning you are well-connected between the major cities and there are also options to reach smaller towns. Trains are generally easy to navigate, so tourists shouldn’t be intimidated.

They aren’t as cheap as buses, but they’re less expensive than renting a car.

If you’re planning on taking a train around northern Italy, read all my Italy train travel tips so you know exactly how to prepare.

• Mid-range price compared to bus and rental car travel
• Well-connected between cities and towns (regional trains)
• Can be less flexible

I use Omio for purchasing train tickets or go straight to the Trenitalia website .

Italy does not have a national bus line, so most buses are only regional or city. However, coach bus companies like Flixbus operate throughout the country and Europe, so you could travel between regions using their service.

Read about all of your options and how to navigate bus lines in my guide on buses in Italy .

Buses are usually the cheapest option for getting around , as Flixbus tickets are as low as $5. However, the travel time is the longest.

With regional buses you can typically reach small towns, while with Flixbus, you’ll mostly be limited to cities.

If you’re thinking of using regional or city buses, the real challenge is understanding the routes and planning your itinerary around the timetables.

I would only use the bus option if you are opting for a slow travel itinerary and have lots of time to spend in Italy, this way you save money but aren’t wasting half your vacation trying to figure out the buses.

Bus can also be a flexible and inexpensive option for airport transfer.

• Can be super cheap & is overall less expensive
• Least flexible
• Takes time to understand routes of regional or city buses
• Longest travel time

What’s more exciting than an Italy road trip ? It truly is the best way to visit the country and enjoy just how vastly different the landscapes are across the peninsula.

Renting a car in Italy is the most flexible yet most expensive option for traveling around northern Italy. If you’re hoping to visit many places that aren’t major cities or tourist spots, then I would absolutely recommend renting a car.

Any of these itineraries can be turned into a road trip itinerary – like I said, the country is best experienced by road trip!

• Most flexible
• Most comfortable
• Most expensive
• Have to get used to driving in Italy

5 Northern Italy Itineraries You Should Steal

The bucket list northern italy itinerary.

If you’re someone who’s embarking on their once-in-a-lifetime trip to Italy, this itinerary is for you. Hit the 5 major areas on everyone’s northern Italy bucket list.

• Cinque Terre

There is an airport in both Venice and Milan so you could start your itinerary in either place. Both these cities will be your home base on this itinerary.

Book your stay in Milan and spend time exploring the city, while using the next few days to visit Cinque Terre and Lake Como as day trips. Curious about more spots to hit? Discover more day trips from Mi lan to beef up your itinerary.

Then you’ll head to Venice, from which you can do a day trip to the Dolomites.

If you’re working with a 10 day northern Italy trip, you can make it simple by spending two days in each place, or do as I’m suggesting using Milan and Venice as your home bases to explore more with day trips.

Here are some in-depth guides to help you plan exactly what to do in each destination:

• Milan in 24 hours
• One Day Cinque Terre Itinerary
• Lake Como in One Day: Varenna & Bellagio
• 3 Day Dolomites Itinerary
• Where to Stay in the Dolomites
• Unique Things To Do in Venice

Check out this Google Maps Trip Planner with extra itinerary suggestions:

Explore the Italian Alps

Outdoor enthusiasts will fall in love with the Italian Alps. Whether you like hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, the mountains are paradise.

The great thing is that even this itinerary is worthwhile for people who aren’t nature lovers but love the mountain landscape. You could engage in sports or you could visit to admire the views!

Here are the itinerary stops:

• Western Alps: Courmayeur, Gran Paradiso National Park, Breuil-Cervinia
• Central Alps : Lake Como, Bergamo, Val Brembana
• Eastern Alps: Dolomites

This epic northern Italy itinerary begins in Valle D’Aosta, the smallest and most underrated of Italy’s regions. The entire area is made up of the Western Alps. You’ll find both French and Italian are spoken here because of how close the two countries are. But the true draw is the landscape!

Start as far west as possible in Courmayeur to visit Mont Blanc and the Val Ferret. Then explore Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso , the oldest national park in Italy, before heading north to the tiny town turned ski haven Breuil-Cervinia to see Monte Cervino – otherwise known as the Matterhorn !

Making your way from the Western Alps, you’ll cross Milan, Lake Como, and Bergamo in the Central Alps . Lake Como is a must stop also for mountain lovers: the peaks soaring above the lake are breathtaking. Dive deeper into the Val Brembana to the north of Bergamo to visit the villages of Branzi and Cornello dei Tasso.

Then head over to the Dolomites: the most unique of mountains with jagged grey peaks surrounded by the absolutely stunning valleys and green hills of Trentino Alto-Adige.

Check out the map to see this sample itinerary and extra suggestions on where to visit:

North Italy City-Breaks

Some travelers can’t get enough of a historic, bustling European city and Italy is rich with them.

From metropolitan Milan to the medieval hilltop city of Bergamo, the major cities in Italy all offer a different landscape to be explored.

The stops on this north Italy itinerary include:

You’ll probably start this itinerary in Milan, given that the most major airports are located just outside the city. However, if you’re flying from within Europe, you may want to consider flying into Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, which is a hub for Ryanair flights.

Regardless, these two sister cities are only 40 minutes apart by car, but exhibit completely different landscapes. Milan is bustling, crowded, the energy is always high.

Bergamo is big in size, but quaint in spirit. Life moves just a little bit slower, especially up in Città Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the medieval, historic old town that rests on a hilltop overlooking the more economic center, Città Bassa.

Head west to Turin , a financial and cultural hub like Milan, stylized by Baroque-style architecture and the famed Mole Antonelliana.

Head east and end your itinerary in Venice. There’s not much I need to explain as to why Venice is a good city-break: the uniqueness of its landscape and how it affects every aspect of life from transportation to food is crazy to experience in person.

Check out more in-depth locations for the perfect city-break itinerary to northern Italy on the map:

Most Romantic Places for Couples

It’s no secret Italy is one of the most romantic countries in the world to visit, so I’ve also curated a North Italy itinerary perfect for couples, whether on honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a romantic trip.

Between wine, fairytale villages, and intimate vistas, you’ll be feeling the Italian romance.

Here are some of the most romantic places in Italy :

• Portovenere
• Franciacorta

Portovenere is an underrated hidden gem on the coast of Liguria. From the views to the quiet harbor to the unreal swimming spots like Lord Byron’s Grotto and the untouched beaches of Palmeria Island , it’s a lover’s paradise and exudes Italian charm. Nearby Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure are a few extra stop ideas.

It’s no secret Lake Como is one of the most luxurious destinations in Italy and its exclusivity, plus the incredible views of villas and alpine peaks, makes it an intimate retreat. Make it easier to visit using my Lake Como budget tips , but don’t be afraid to indulge in visiting its most romantic places like Villa del Balbianello and the town of Bellagio .

The Tuscany of northern Italy? Franciacorta . Franciacorta is a territory between Bergamo and Brescia that produces sparkling wine or “spumante”, mostly Prosecco, Italy’s version of Champagne. If you love the idea of vineyard views on end and wine tasting with your partner, it must be added to your romantic itinerary.

Not far from Franciacorta is the region of Veneto, where the next half of the itinerary lies. Verona is the ultimate city of romance in Italy: the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, made up of rose-hued buildings and castles nestled over the Adige River.

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, but its small, cascading hillside towns make the atmosphere intimate. Visit Sirmione for its enchanting castle and Limone sul Garda for its quiet charm. Curious for more ideas? Read about all the best towns on Lake Garda .

Last stop for lovers: Venice! You can’t take a romantic trip to Italy without enjoying the swoon-worthy, picturesque atmosphere of Venice. Gondola ride for two?

Discover more specific destinations for loved-up travelers on the map:

A Foodie’s Northern Italy Itinerary

Italian food is in a league of its own, but you’ll soon find out when visiting northern Italy that the traditional dishes are not pasta and pizza.

Instead, the meals are heartier, which reflect the lifestyle of the historic types of people living here: industrial workers or those living in the Alps having to face long winters.

People in northern Italy also love their local ingredients. Here are some foods to try in every region on this itinerary:

• Truffles in Piemonte
• Seafood, Focaccia, & Pesto in Liguria
• Polenta in Bergamo
• Spaghetti alla bolognese in Bologna

Starting in Piemonte, the speciality is one of the most expensive and luxurious foods in the world: truffles ! The best time to visit is in the fall, also when the White Truffle Festival takes place in Alba. I highly recommend booking a tour with a local guide for the unique experience of hunting for truffles and do a Barolo wine tasting.

Next stop is Liguria for fresh seafood, focaccia, and pesto ! You can pretty much walk into any bakery in Liguria and get an amazing piece of focaccia. I love simple focaccia, made with just oil, but the bread is so versatile that you’ll find many different versions. The other dish I ordered at every restaurant in Liguria: Trofie al Pesto.

After heading to the sea, return to the mountains around the area of Bergamo. Here you’ll find two specialties: polenta and pizzoccheri. Polenta is a versatile grain made plain, with cheese or as Polenta Contadina, made with cheese, spinach, and local sausage. Pizzoccheri are a mix of short buckwheat tagliatelle pasta, potatoes, cheese, and greens. It comes from Valtellina, a valley in Lombardy bordering Switzerland.

Your last stop on this itinerary is tapping into a bit of central Italy territory, but it is a must stop for foodies. Bologna is the origin of many Italian food favorites : Parmigiano Reggiano, Mortadella, Ragù Bolognese, Balsamic Vinegar and Lasagne. Arrive on an empty stomach and take a traditional food tour !

Check out the map with extra suggestions:

The SGTD Take

I could go on and on about all of the beautiful places to visit in northern Italy, but this post would then be at least 10,000 words. I highly suggest taking a look at the embedded maps to discover places worth adding to your itinerary based on the amount of time you have available.

Also take advantage of the linked posts within this article to discover individual destinations in depth and ultimately allow you to plan your trip better.

Northern Italy is a diverse landscape: mountains, sea, lakes, floating cities, metropolitan centers, food-rich countrysides. It’s hard to fit it all into one trip, but hopefully you’ve found the perfect itinerary for your trip to northern Italy or at least sparks of inspiration!

Which itinerary is on your bucket list? Leave a comment!

Italy Trip Planning Resources

• Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
• Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
• Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
• Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
• Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
• Accessories : I always travel with this portable charger to stay connected and with a universal adapter to accommodate Italy’s plug types.
• Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

Save these itinerary ideas to Pinterest!

If you head out on your adventure using one of these itineraries or have questions for curating a totally customized itinerary, share with me – I’d love to hear how your trip has gone or help you further plan your dream northern Italy itinerary !

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

Find me on: Web | Instagram

You may also enjoy:

Pienza, italy: the ultimate guide to tuscany’s beautiful hilltop village, the best 2 days in amsterdam itinerary for new visitors: detailed travel guide.

Hi Michela, I would love some suggestions on a 14 day itinerary to Northern Italy. We are coming from the West Coast of the US (California). This is our second trip. Our first trip we visited Rome, Florence, Bologna, Venice, Genoa/Cinque Terre. We would really like to visit Bologna and Florence again and have to add Verona for sure due to business (just 1 day business meeting). I’d also like to see Lake Como, Lake Guardia, Dolomites and Piedmont but know we can’t fit it all in and I’m ok with making another trip some day. I was thinking of flying into Rome due to convenience and cost and flying out of Milan mostly due to convenience. We are not opposed to flying in and or out of any airport as long as it makes sense. I would love to hear your suggestions for an itinerary and how long to spend in each place

Those are all amazing places to visit! Since they are very concentrated in northern Italy, I would suggest flying roundtrip in and out of Milan. But if the price is better in Rome, you could always take a train to a major northern Italian city or find a cheap flight with RyanAir, for example.

As far as how long to spend in each place, here are my recommendations for a minimum amount of stay based on how much there is to do in each place (& my personal favorite spots!):

– Piedmont: at least 2 nights (Piedmont is a large region, so depending on how much you want to see, you could easily extend this a couple of nights) – Lake Como: at least 1 night – Bologna: at least 1 night – Florence: at least 2 nights – Verona: at least 1 night – Lake Garda: at least 1 night (or even a day trip from Verona & you stay in Verona 2 nights) – Dolomites: at least 2-3 nights

Planning the best order of visiting these places will depend on what airport you end up flying into, as well as what day your business meeting falls on! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out again!

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Northern Italy Roadtrip Itinerary | 5, 10 and 14 days

Planning your trip to the Northern part of Italy is exciting but can be overwhelming as well. There’s so much to visit in the whole country, and the northern part is no exception to that. We’re here to help you plan the best road trip in Northern Italy. This article contains several road trip itineraries in length and activities.

With the Northern Italy Highlights – 10 days itinerary you’ll cross the most important highlights, cities and landmarks in the northern part of Italy. In the next part, you’ll find step by step itineraries where we explain the best stops, famous landmarks, and best places to stay. Also, we cover several itineraries for 5 and 14 days. Let’s start with the 10-day highlights!

10-day Itinerary – Northern Italy

For this Itinerary we recommend you to start in Milan. We chose for Milan as a starting point because it is easy to reach, either flying or overland. 

When you feel it is more convenient, you can also choose to start your road trip at Venice. The route will be slightly different.

We feel it is essential that you plan your trip with the best booking recourses. That’s why we selected the recourses we use all the time while booking our trips. You can find them on our recommendations page, or scroll down and read the ‘plan your trip’ part in this article. Also, we will recommend places to stay in each recommended city where you will stay overnight during this road trip.

Day 1 – 2 Milan – Lake Como

Our first recommendation is that you start in Milan. After you arrive in Milan, you probably want to relax a bit first. So the first day we don’t plan that much. But if you like, you can explore the city. On the second day you drive to Lake Como, but that’s only around 2 hours drive. So we recommend to stay in Milan until lunch, and after lunch drive to Lake Como. This way, you have enough time to explore the highlights in Milan.

Milan Highlights

The highlights in Milan are: 

• Milan Cathedral (Duomo)
• Church of Sante Maria delle Grazia
• Sforzesco Castle
• Galleria Vitoria Emmanuelle II
• Teatro alla Scala
• Brera Pinacoteca

It is easy to walk around the city center of Milan. The city itself is not that big. We recommend that you pick up your rental car right before you leave the city and travel to lake Como. It saves you a day in rental- and parking costs. And you don’t need your rental car while staying in Milan.

We wrote this article you might like, with in-depth information about the city of Milan.

Recommended places to stay in Milan

Milan has many accommodations where you can stay. Most of the time, we use Booking.com to book our accommodations. We selected two options, both with excellent customer reviews, which we think are great to spend one night.

• Hotel Napoleon – is in the middle of the center, so easy to reach all the highlights in Milan. They get a review score of 8.5 on average 
• Room Inn B&B – Also find in the center, offer rooms with breakfast. They get a review score of 9.3 on average. 

When you would rather looking for other accommodation, make sure to use this link , which will direct you to the best deals in Milan on Booking.com

Day 2 Milan – Lake Como

On the second day, we recommend you to travel to Lake Como, somewhere after lunch. It will take around 2 hours to reach the lake. You’ll need to follow the A9 north from Milan. We recommend staying in the town of Varenna, which is the easiest to reach, and on the road, you’ll need to follow the next day. From Varenna, it is easy to explore the lake.

Lake Como Highlights

The villages around the lake are great to explore, but Lake Como is renowned for its beautiful nature. The highlights you don’t want to miss are;

• Cathedral of Como
• Visit a lakeside villa; Villa del Balbianello A 16th-century building with a beautiful garden on the side of the lake
• Take a boat trip to Varenna  This trip will stop at several villages, and you’ll get a great impression of the lake and its surroundings
• Go hiking along the lake There are many different hiking trails at Lake Como. It is fantastic to spend a few hours in this beautiful nature. 

Recommended places to stay Lake Como – Varenna

Varenna is the best place to stay at Lake Como for this road trip. It is on the road you’ll take the next day, and also it is easy to explore the best highlights of the lake with the taxi boat that leaves from this village.

There are many accommodations to find in Varenna, but the two that stand out the most, regarding customer reviews are:

• Hotel Beretta – in the town center
• Hotel Olivedo – with splendid views over the lake

You can also look for other villages to stay if you wish, but we recommend staying at the eastern side of the lake, on the road SS36. This is the road you’ll need to take the next day.

Day 3 Dolomites

The next day you follow road SS36, 38, 39, 42 and 239 to the national park Adamello Brenta . This park in the heart of the Dolomites is probably the best stop for a day visit. The entrance of the park is around 3,5 hours drive from Varenna. We recommend leaving early in the morning, so you have enough time to reach the park. The road will take you through the dolomites, which is lovely. You’ll probably stop a few times just to enjoy the views.

The dolomites are great for exploring nature and hiking. However, during this trip, you don’t have that much time to explore the most significant hiking trails. We recommend staying close by the park entrance

Hotel Garnì La Soldanella   and  Hotel Villa Fosine   are both located around 5 kilometers from the park’s entrance.

Depending on your interests and fitness level, you can choose different activities. We recommend using the park’s website to find out the best hiking trails. It is also convenient to book a guided tour in the park and its surroundings, that way you make sure you’ll get the best things to see in the short amount of time.

Day 4 Lake Garda

After you woke up and enjoyed the beautiful mountain views, it is time to hit the road again. Today you’ll travel to Lake Garda. The biggest lake in Italy and Europe. Many people say the lake is less spectacular then Lake Como, but we think it is a must-visit while traveling through this area. 

Lake Garda is known for its beautiful historic villages and also beautiful landscapes. Two villages you don’t want to miss are  Garda  and  Sirmione . Sirmione is a historic town on a peninsula at the lake. Marvelous to visit!

There’s a lot to see at Lake Garda, so you might be interested in reading our article with in-depth information about this area.

To make sure you don’t spend to much time in the car we recommend staying somewhere around Lake Garda. Also, the countryside is renowned for its vineyards, so it is excellent to go for a local winetasting. Not much driving after that 😉

Our recommended places to stay are in two different villages.  Sirmione , which is a bit more expensive option, but probably one of the most romantic places you’ll ever sleep. The other option is staying in  Peschiera del Garda , a vibrant town next to the lake, also perfect for a romantic stay, but less expensive.

Day 5 Verona

The city of Verona is a maximum one hour drive from Lake Garda. This medieval town is great for a day visit. Verona is worldwide known as the city of love. Shakespeare’s love story Romeo and Juliet is set in Verona. And despite Romeo and Juliet is a fictional love story, it is possible to visit Juliet’s house. Millions of tourists travel every year to this renowned place. 

Luckily there’s much more to see in Verona, some of the famous landmarks are Castelvecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the Verona Arena. Verona Arena is one of the best-preserved Amphitheaters in the world. Built-in 30 AD and today still used as a concert venue.

Verona is a great city to spend your day. We wrote this article about the city where you can read all the essential details. 

It is lovely to spend the night in Verona. However, we recommend you to drive a few hours to Venice during the evening and stay overnight in Venice. This way you can reach the historic city of Venice early morning and spend a few moments when it is not too busy. There are many accommodations to find in Venice. The city is known for its hospitality. We recommend staying a bit out of the center , which saves you tons of money. You can also stay at the neighboring island Venice Lido , from where you can easily take a taxi-boat to the historical center.

The upside is that you can explore Venice by night when you arrive not too late. And during the night, most tourists left the historic center, so it’s much quieter.

Our Venice hotel recommendations:

• Ca’ Dei Dogi – Which is in the old center, but relatively cheap considering the location. And they are rated with a 9.3
• Hotel New Reiter – Located at Lido di Venezia (Venice Lido), the island next to the historical center. This hotel gets a customer rating of 9.2

Day 6 Venice

Waking up early in Venice and arriving in the historical center before 10 a.m. is recommended. It is still busy, but starting from 10 a.m., it is getting swamped.

Exploring Venice by day is great, but you need to decide what things you definitely want to see.

A few of the highlights you don’t want to miss are:

• St. Marks square
• St. Mark Basilique & tower
• Doges Palace
• Rialto Bridge
• Grand Canal
• Bridge of Sighs

It is also great to visit the surrounding islands  Burano, Lido di Venezia, Murano , which is comfortable with one of the taxi boats.

To enter Venice, you’ll need to buy a ticket, which gives you also access to the taxi boats. At the Grand Canal, there are many taxi boats where you can hop on and off with your ticket. So when you want to save some money, don’t go to a traditional Gondola, but hop-on a taxi boat.

At the end of the day, we recommend to leave Venice, hop in your car and drive to Florence, which is still a 3-hour drive. But the advantage is that you can stay overnight in Florence, and the next day has all day to exploring another historic city.

It is a bit difficult to drive into the city center of Florence. The city is busy, and most roads are one direction only. So we recommend staying at the outside center ring, which makes it easy to park your car. Public transport in Florence is perfect, so the next day you don’t have any problems reaching the city center.

Our Florence hotel recommendations:  

• Eden Rock Resort – which is around 5 kilometers out of the center, but a relaxing place to stay. They get a customer rating of 9.4
• Hotel Rapallo – In the heart of the historical center of Florence. Perfect for a two-night stay or longer. They get a customer review of 9.3

Day 7 Florence

Florence is known as the heart of the Rennaissance. It is the capital of the Tuscany region. Florence was the center of trade and banking during medieval times. And the Medici Family, in particular, had significant influence at the modern banking system.

With many historical buildings, it is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Italy. Since 1982 the historic center of Florence is listed as a Unesco World Heritage site. Many great artists and philosophers lived in Florence during the middle ages.  Medici Family,  who invented modern banking, but also a few popes came from this family. Artist like  Michaelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Machiavelli  lived and worked in the city of Florence.

Florence is probably the city with the most historic architecture in Italy. Places you don’t want to miss while visiting Florence are: 

• Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
• Piazza Della Signoria
• Ponte Vecchio
• The church of San Lorenzo

When you want to visit the Duomo, you must reserve a ticket in advance . It is recommended to plan this a few weeks before your arrival. Tickets are often fully booked, and you need to choose a particular time slot to visit the Duomo.

You can also book a guided tour through the city, where you’ll explore the best highlights of Florence.

Day 8 – Roadtrip in Tuscany

Tuscany is often referred to as the most beautiful countryside in Italy. Tuscany is a bit different than the other regions in Italy. Mainly because there are so many medieval villages to visit. The people are friendly, and the food is fantastic. We always feel at home while traveling through Tuscany.

You can easily spend a few weeks in the Tuscany region, but during this road trip in the Northern part of Italy, we recommend that you stay in the west part of Tuscany.

Leaving Florence we recommend you to drive to  Siena – San Gimignano – Volterra – Pisa.  In Pisa, you’ll stay overnight.

This road trip through a small part of the countryside of Tuscany will take up the whole day, but it is probably the best drive you’ll have during the entire trip. The roads are good condition, and the views are just stunning.

Siena  is renowned for the largest medieval square and the famous Torre del Mangia. The historic center is one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Italy.  San Gimignano  is another great historic medieval village to visit. Walking into this village is like you’re stepping back in time. The center is closed for cars, so you need to walk here, which is easy. Because there’s no traffic, the vibe is even more unique. A perfect place to buy a fresh sandwich and enjoy your time at the main square of the village.

Volterra  is another small village on top of a hill. This walled village with a big cathedral dates back to the 8th century BC! It is one of the oldest places in Tuscany. Many people think this village was the scene for the movie  twilight.  However, the town Volterra in this movie is a fictional village and not the same as the historic Italian village.

Driving west from Volterra, you’ll reach the coastal city of Pisa. Known for its iconic leaning tower. Did you know the famous tower straightens every year?

Our hotel recommendations for Pisa:

• B&B La Corte di Stelio – nice Bed & Breakfast with a local family. Customer review 9.1
• B&B Live design – it is a bit out of the center of Pisa, but they score a 9.6, which is one of the highest in the region

Tuscany region is great to spend more time. You can find more information about Tuscany in this article , where we tell more about the different villages in this region. 

Day 9 Cinque Terre – Genoa – Parma

From Pisa, it is only a short drive to one of the most beautiful coastlines in Italy.  Cinque Terre  is a Unesco world heritage site. It is not a coastal city as many people think, the region consists out of five different coastal towns. The towns in Cinque Terre used the be fisherman towns. Nowadays the most important source of income is tourism. 

Cinque Terre is known for its beautiful coastline, colorful houses that are built into the cliffs, stunning nature and excellent hiking trails. It is fantastic to spend a half-day or full-day in this area. During this road trip, we planned a half-day in Cinque Terre, but if you want to spend more time along these coastal towns, you can skip Genoa or Parma in this itinerary.

We wrote an in-depth guide about Cinque Terre. Check out our article What is Cinque Terre Famous For?

Genoa  is known as the birthplace of Columbus, the renowned sea navigator. The city of Genoa was always an important harbor city for Italy. Nowadays it has the third biggest harbor in the Mediterranean Sea. Genoa is excellent to spend a few days and explore the extensive history. You can read all the details about Genoa in this

We wrote several articles about Genoa which we recommend reading before going to the city. Our recommended articles are: 

• What is Genoa Famous For?
• Beaches in Genoa

Driving from Genoa to Parma is a beautiful road when you skip the tollroads.  Parma  will be the last city on this itinerary before you head back to Milan. Parma is a city that will surprise you. The city is known for its parma ham and renowned parmesan cheese. But also many historic buildings are to find in this city.

We were pleasantly surprised during our visit to Parma, and recommend anyone to stay here and explore this lovely city.  Teatro Farnese  is a theater you should visit while in Parma, it is a 16th-century theater, built entirely from wood. And the first theater with a podium instead of the round square you’ll see in the amphitheaters.

Our hotel recommendations in Parma:

• B&B Bsuites Parma – located in the heart of the center and a customer review of 9.3
• Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati – Apartment/ Hotel located in the historical center. The get a customer review of 9.4, the location is perfect!

Day 10: Milan

The last day of this road trip itinerary is traveling back to Milan. Depending on your departure time you can either explore the city of Milan for a second time or maybe need to go directly to the airport. The drive from Parma to Milan is around 2 hours.

When you still have time for exploring, we recommend dropping your rental car at the drop-off and head to the city center. It is always fun to explore a city for the second time. Or maybe you didn’t have time on your first day to see all the highlights of the city.

Recommended route part 1 – Milan to Florence (Day 1 – 7)

You can use these Google Maps as a recommended route to follow.

Recommended Route Part II – Florence – Milan (Day 7 – 10)

5-day itinerary for northern italy roadtrip.

After reading the itinerary above, you might wonder how to shorten the itinerary to five days. Honestly, we think five days is too short to explore the best parts of Northern Italy. But sometimes you just don’t have more time. 

You’ll need to choose between some highlights when you have less amount of time to spend in Italy. But in five days you still can see a lot.

There are several options to spend five days in the Northern part of Italy. We have three recommendations, where we think you still see a lot of this beautiful part of Italy.

5 days Milan to Venice

In this road trip, we recommend you to start in Milan and leave the country from Venice. This way you’ll spend your time in the most efficient way possible. We will skip the Dolomites during this road trip because the drive is taking to much time. Also, you’ll stay in the northern part of the region. You won’t reach the Tuscany region.

Depending on your departure time you can explore the islands around the historical city of Venice or go directly to the airport.

5 days Milan – Dolomites – Milan

The other option to spend only 5 days in the northern part is excellent for hiking enthusiasts.

We recommend spending two full days to explore the Dolomites and do some hiking. You might even drive to  the Queen of the Dolomites – Marmolada.  It is the highest mountain in this mountain range. The drive is a bit far, around 3 hours from the national park Ademello Breno, but you’ll have the best views from the cable car of the highest mountain peak!  

5 days Milan – Cinque Terre – Florence (Tuscany Roadtrip)

Milan to Florence is a great road trip, where you see the best parts the Tuscany and Cinque Terre region. We recommend booking a departure from Florence because it saves you a lot of time. You’ll be able to use your time in the most efficiënt way.

The total length of this road trip is 388 miles (625 kilometers). You’ll drive around 62 miles (100 kilometers) a day, but that gives you enough time to explore the historical and traditional villages and countryside. 

 Don’t forget to book your sightseeing tickets for Florence in advance. The city is bustling, and if you don’t book your tickets in advance, there might be a chance you miss out on visiting the historic Duomo. Or that you need to wait a long time in line.

5 days Milan – Italian Lakes Roadtrip (Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda)

The northern part of Italy is renowned for its beautiful mountain lakes. Lake Garda is even the biggest lake in Europe, and Lake Maggiore and Lake Como are set in some beautiful environments.

If you’re into hiking, watersports, or just want to experience the beauty of nature, this road trip might be something for you.

In five days you’ll visit the three biggest lakes in Italy before heading back to the vibrant city of Milan. Note; the road from Lake Maggiore to Lake Como takes you a few miles through Switzerland. You can also go around Switzerland and stay in Italy, but that’s a longer drive.

Lake Maggiore is in the second largest lake in Italy, and also crosses the border with Switzerland. The lake is the largest in the southern part of Switzerland.

There are some splendid botanical gardens and excellent hiking trails around the lake. The Borromean Islands are the main attraction at Lake Maggiore. Three rocky islands that were bought by the Borromean family centuries ago. They made these islands in the beautiful botanical gardens which they are now. It’s worth a visit!

The two best lakes for watersports like kite- and windsurfing are Lake Como and Lake Garda. There’s a constant wind blowing from the mountains which makes both lakes favorable for a fun sports day on the water.

This road trip is around 500 kilometers, maybe a bit more depending on where you go around the lakes. Approximately 100 kilometers driving a day should be your maximum, so you have enough time to explore the beautiful lakes.

The drive back from Lake Garda to Milan is around 2 hours, so make sure you plan that properly according to your departure.

14-day Itinerary for Northern Italy Roadtrip

When you have more time for a road trip, we recommend using it. 5 days is very short, and you need to make some choices in what places you’re going to visit. 10 days is great, but also a bit short with so much to see around this part of Italy.

14 days or even longer is perfect for a road trip. 

 So if you’re lucky enough to spend more time on the road and enjoy your holiday, this itinerary is for you. The basics are the same as the 10-day itinerary for Northern Italy, but we added more stops and more time for sightseeing and exploring.

Also, we recommend leaving from another city. So you can use your time in the most efficiënt way.

14 days Milan – Venice – Florence

This itinerary takes you all the way from Milan to Venice, and from Venice to Florence. You’ll see the greatest highlights and have enough time for sightseeing, hiking and learn about the Italian culture. 

In some places, we recommend staying two nights, so it is more relaxed, and you allow yourself to really get to know the city or village.  

Recommended route day 1 – 8

Recommended route day 8 – 14, 14 days milan – venice – florence – rome.

The big Italian big four road trip. Many people want to visit these cities while visiting Italy, but especially Rome is a bit far regarding the other cities. However, if you have more then 10 days for your holiday, it is easier to manage.

We recommend starting in Milan and plan your departure from Rome. You can also choose to do this road trip in the other way around. It just depends on what you feel is more convenient.

From Florence to Rome it is about 3 to 4 hours drive. The road trip to Rome will take up a half-day. If you decide to avoid the toll roads, which is a more scenic route along the western coastline of Italy, it will take you even around 5 hours.

We recommend taking the scenic route, though. You’ll see a lot more of the beautiful countryside of Italy.

Rome is a special city to visit. It is one of our favorite cities in Italy! There is so much to find in Rome, historic building, culture, and great food! Of course, you’ll visit the famous landmarks as  Colleseum,   Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Vatican City.  For drinks and dining, we recommend you to go to the  Trastevere  neighborhood. Here you’ll find many small traditional restaurants, the best place to have a relaxing night after much walking in the city!

You don’t need a car when in the city of Rome. Most of the landmarks are in walking distance, and public transport is excellent. So we recommend dropping your rental car when arriving at the city. You can easily take public transportation from and to the airport.

The bus from or to the airport can take up to 1 hour though.

We wrote some articles about Rome, that might interest you:

• What is Rome Famous For?
• City Guide to the Best of Rome

Planning & Packing tips

There are many options for a road trip in the Northern part of Italy. Our road trip itineraries cover the different highlights in this part of the country. We tried to be as thorough as possible and make different routes for different interests.

Best Time to Visit Northern Italy

The best time to visit the Northern part of Italy is between the months of May and September. During these months you’ll have the best weather conditions, less rain and most chance of sunshine. However, the Dolomites can be cold year-round, especially when you go high into the mountains. Make sure to bring some warm clothes, even in summer!

The months July and August are the high tourist seasons, so it is busier during these months. But for the cities of Venice and Florence, it is busy year-round.

Temperatures on average in the Northern part of Italy are favorable. The below charge are average temperatures in the Milan region. The weather around the lakes and in the mountains can vary heavily day to day.

Planning your trip

It is essential to plan ahead while planning a road trip in Italy. At every place where we recommend staying overnight, we put some recommendations for hotel bookings. If you rather look up a hotel yourself we recommend using the searching tool:

Tip: We only book accommodations on Booking.com that are rated with an 8.5 or higher. This way we make sure we get the best places to stay. 

Renting a car in advance can save you a lot of money. We always use rentalcars.com for booking a car. Their search engine gives the best and most affordable results. We also find that their customer service is excellent.

You can use this link to check the latest prices on rental cars in Italy

We found that insurance can be a tricky thing, but since we’re using Rentalcover.com for our rental insurance, we stopped worrying. Rentalcover offers the best coverage for a rental car, and it is cheaper than insurance via the rental company. We recommend using rentalcover. Use this link or the banner below to get a quote.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for your belongings and healthcare while traveling.  WorldNomads   insurance is what we feel is the most comprehensive and reliable travel insurance you can buy. They cover over 150 activities, even some extreme sports and have 24/7 emergency assistance when necessary. 

Hopefully, you’ll never use it, but when you need it, it is good to know there’s a company out there helping you. Click on the banner to get more information on the website of World Nomads.

Packing tips

We love taking pictures and videos during our travels, but also like to be organized with our stuff. We don’t want to bring too many things, because simply you don’t need that much while traveling. Over the years we tested a lot of stuff, check out our full list of recommendations for packing gear and camera stuff on the recommendations page Here are some things we recommend you to use during your Italian road trip:

• Camera: GoPro Hero 7 (Check the latest price on Amazon) – Easy to use, waterproof, and excellent quality.
• Backpack:  North Face Duffel Bag (Check the latest price on Amazon) – has a lot of space and you can use it as a duffel bag or backpack.
• Packing Cubes:  Eagle Creek packing cubes (Check the latest price on Amazon) – to organize your clothes in your backpack.

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The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip! 

When it comes to road trips, a journey through northern Italy offers some of the most varied scenery. One minute you’re faced with a view across a tranquil lake, the next you’re learning about the Romans with a trip around an ancient amphitheatre. 

There’s a variety of cuisines to sample too, with amazing fresh truffles in Turin and Alba, venetian cicchetti (snacks) in Venice and the delights of ‘appy hour’ (aperitivo hour) in Milan . You could even visit Emilia-Romagna, often referred to as the food capital of Italy, with cities like Bologna an absolute must-visit!

Oh and you’ve got a mix of activities on offer too. You can swim on the beaches of Cinque Terre, climb across the rooftop of Milan’s impressive Duomo, take a gondola ride in Venice or trace Romeo and Juliet’s love story in Verona.

And the best part about a road trip through northern Italy? The freedom to veer off course from time to time! While I’ve suggested an Italy itinerary on the map below, I’d encourage creating your own route between places. It’s often when you find super special spots that aren’t in the guide books!

So rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided the country in two! Read on for my northern Italy road trip or check out my route for an amazing  southern Italy road trip . 

Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

If you’ve got time on your side, then this northern Italy road trip is a great option. I’ve started it in Milan and ended in Rome, as they’re easy for flights. From the beauty of Lake Como to the gorgeous coastline in Cinque Terre, to impressive, historic cities including Venice, Florence and Rome, this Italy road trip has a bit of everything. It’ll definitely show you some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

If you’d rather break it up into smaller chunks, you could visit Milan, Lake Como and Cinque Terre across a week. I’d recommend taking a look at my guide to the best hidden gems in Italy too – you might find a few other stops to add to your route! 

Northern Italy Road Trip Map

I’ve used a map to plot the perfect route for your Northern Italy road trip . I recommend opening it another window to study in detail!

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list. I’ve also included lots of must-haves at the end of this post, to make the process much easier!

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 1 – Milan

Milan, in Italy’s Lombardy region, is a unique blend of historical architecture, contemporary skyscrapers and well-known as a fashionista’s Italian city of choice. The icon of the city is the Duomo Cathedral. It’s the world’s largest gothic cathedral and is absolutely stunning!

I’d recommend heading up to the roof in the lift. I remember how stunning those views were, and you can literally wander all over the rooftop, taking in the details of the architecture and some vertigo-inducing views of the main piazza.

There are plenty more sights to see in Milan including the famous La Scala Opera House, a 15th century castle and Leonardo Da Vinci’s painting of The Last Supper. While you might associate Milan’s shopping scene just with high end designer stores, there’s actually something to suit every budget. One place you must go though is Galleria Vittorio Emanuale II – one of the oldest and most beautiful shopping malls in the world. It was constructed in 1867 to celebrate the unification of Italy and is decorated with stunning mosaics symbolising the different cities in the country.

On my last visit I learned all about the city’s love of ‘appy hour (the Italian version of happy hour!) Head to Navigli (Milan’s pretty canal area) and you’ll find plenty of great bars specialising in ‘appy hour! It’s not just about drinks – once you order a drink you get access to a buffet of small bites.

Milan is a great starting point for your northern Italy road trip. You can collect your car rental at one of the cities two airports, and after spending a couple of days exploring the city, you can head up to Lake Como or down to Cinque Terre.

READ MORE: One Day In Milan: A 24-Hour City Guide

Northern italy road trip: stop 2 – lake como.

Lake Como is just over an hour and a half from Milan , so you could easily visit for a day if you don’t fancy the overinflated prices of the area. It boasts spectacular alpine scenery, narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional pizzerias and boat trips across the lake. It’s a lovely contrast to Milan, so perfect if you want a variety of places on your Italy itinerary.

READ MORE: How to get from Milan to Lake Como

I visited a few years ago and while there are dreamy hotels like Grand Hotel Tremezzo where you could splurge your entire Italian road trip budget, you can also visit Lake Como on a budget !  There’s a hostel, some cheap pizzerias and well… looking at the lake is free!

Como is the largest town and has a lively café culture, gothic-style cathedral and museums. Meanwhile, the famous town of Bellagio is a great place to shop for souvenirs, stop for a gelato or enjoy a romantic waterside dinner.

You can reach Bellagio from Como by boat for around 9.50 EUR (£8, $11) per person. If you’re visiting for a special occasion, I’d recommend stopping for lunch or dinner at Villa d’ Este , the location of many celebrity weddings and events over the years!

For a thorough plan, I’d recommend reading my guide to the top things to do in Lake Como – it’s full of handy travel tips.

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 3 – Verona  

Continuing from Milan or Lake Como you can travel east to Verona in the Veneto region, or southwest towards Genoa and Cinque Terre. If you choose the Verona route as part of your Italy itinerary you can look forward to exploring 1st century AD Verona Arena , Piazza Bra with its gelaterias and fine restaurants and the house which inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

For the best views of the city, climb to the top of Torre dei Lamberti in the heart of the Verona. I’d also recommend a walking tour of the city to learn all about its history.

While you can drive to Venice, I’d say a less stressful option is to leave your car in Verona and catch the train to Venice. Otherwise you’ll find yourself paying for overpriced car parks, and negotiating some pretty chaotic roads! In comparison, the train journey takes just over an hour and costs approx 9.50 EUR (£8, $11) per person. 

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 4 – Venice

No Italy road trip planner would be complete without a trip to Venice. Spend your days floating under the Bridge of Sighs, browsing handmade Venetian masks, learning how gondolas are built in Dorsoduro, or exploring the magnificent artwork of Doge’s Palace.

For the best photos head to the top of St. Mark’s or Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, consider taking a water taxi across the lagoon to Murano to see skilled glassblowers in action. In the evenings you can soak up Venice’s romantic vibes, with a drink in a wine bar, an evening at a jazz club or a delicious dinner right by the water. 

Venice is hard to do on a budget, so if you’re lacking funds, consider my idea of basing yourself in Verona and taking a day trip to Venice by train.

READ MORE: The Best Day Trips From Venice

Northern italy road trip: stop 5 – cinque terre.

This picturesque coastal area of Liguria, Italy is famous for its boldly-coloured cascading houses, rugged coastlines and picture-postcard views. It looks too perfect to be real and has been on my dream Italy itinerary for a long time. I hope I make it there soon!

Cinque Terre translates as ‘five earths’ and consists of five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Manarola. As the villages are difficult to drive in with narrow winding streets, I’d recommend enjoying some hiking in Cinque Terre . Alternatively, head for La Spezia or Porto Venere and jump on a ferry or train from there. Once there, enjoy the food, stunning views, take a dip in the sea, hop on a boat and enjoy some world class sunsets!

It’s a magical part of Italy, and while it gets busy during the summer, if you can time your visit for just out of the peak seasons, you’ll have a great time. 

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 6 – Florence

Florence sits in the heart of Tuscany, and is within easy reach of Cinque Terre or Venice/Verona depending on what route you decide to take on your Italy road trip. The city is famous for its striking medieval cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, with its distinctive red-brick cupola.

Other must see landmarks in Florence include 13th century Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Galleries and Ponte Vecchio bridge, which is lined with jewellery shops. If you’re travelling to Florence on a budget start with a look around open-air Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria where you can check out some iconic sculptures of mythical legends for free. Feeling hungry? Don’t miss San Lorenzo Market – a great place to pick up some tasty Italian delicacies, including meats and cheeses.

Then for the best panoramic city views, walk to Piazzale Michelangelo across the Arno River. Photos from there are truly breathtaking.

Want to see a bit more of the region? Why not book a stay at one of these incredible vineyard hotels in Tuscany . They’re ideal locations for a couples break in the region.

Or if you fancy getting off the beaten track, I’d recommend planning some days out to see some of these beautiful towns and villages in Tuscany .

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 7 – Rome

Take the scenic route from Florence to Rome , and you could divert from your road trip itinerary to squeeze in a lunchtime stop in romantic Siena or Grosseto. We’ve all heard our fair share of stories about the crazy drivers in Rome, so make sure you’ve packed your nerves of steel!  I’d also recommend checking if your hotel has parking, and consider walking or hopping in a bike to get around the city centre.

If you have one day in Rome , you can’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain. Sit on the Spanish steps and mingle with locals or venture to Trastevere on the western banks of the Tiber River and enjoy its cobbled streets, charming tavernas and laid-back vibe.

To explore one of the world’s religious hubs, take the metro to Vatican City and marvel at Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sistine Chapel. After dark, Rome comes to life with bars, cabaret shows, live music, nightclubs and plenty more entertainment! Before visiting, I’d recommend reading these interesting facts about Rome – you’ll be amazed by what you learn! 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Northern Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit northern Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

Packing List For Northern Italy

Now you’ve got your route planned out, it’s time to decide what to pack! Here are a few quick suggestions of what to take, with some links to specific items I’d rate picking up before you travel.

Women’s packing list for Northern Italy

Women’s lightweight trousers – It’s good to have some conservative items and not flash too much skin. These are practical, lightweight but a bit cute too! Women’s sundress – Something pretty and not too short for when it’s appropriate. Women’s maxi dress – I quite liked having a longer item or two. If you pair it with a cardigan it’s more conservative too. Women’s midi skirt – I live in items like this in warm countries and have them in multiple colours and patterns. They’re comfortable and not revealing.

Women’s shorts – I packed a few pairs. I’d recommend something loose and comfortable like these shorts , and then perhaps some classic denim shorts too. Women’s summer top – I wore a lot of things like this. Neutral colours work best as you can mix and match with shorts and skirts. Plus, you can dress them up or dress them down! Women’s zip up hooded jacket – A few places get chilly, so you’ll want to be able to layer up occasionally. A zip up hoody like this will come in handy. Women’s bikini – You’ll need to pack a couple of items of swimwear. There are so many cute bikinis out there to choose from! Women’s rash guard – Not essential, but if you burn easily (or plan to surf) I’d recommend one of these. This one is great as it has a built-in bra and comes with a pair of matching shorts. Women’s sports vest – I’d recommend one or two sweat-absorbing vests like this for adventurous activities. Women’s sports bra – Ideal for sporty or adventure activities. I prefer sports bras like this Under Armour one which has some built in padding for extra support. Women’s leggings – Leggings are great for active adventures. These Under Armour ones are great as they’re very lightweight. Sarong – A really useful item for any travels in warm countries! Use it as a towel, a cover up, to sit on, to lie on or for a cute addition to an outfit! Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat to protect yourself. Sunglasses – I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Men’s packing list for Northern Italy

Men’s casual shorts – I’d recommend several pairs of comfortable shorts for everyday use. Men’s chinos or jeans – I’d recommend a few pairs of chinos, jeans or cargo pants. Men’s T-shirts – Pack a few options of t-shirts too. Men’s shirts – A few shirts (long or short sleeved) are a good idea. I personally love these linen shirts . They look very cool!

Men’s vests – If you sweat a lot, you might find vest tops more comfortable in the heat. Men’s zip up hooded jacket – You might want to layer up if it gets chilly in the evenings. Men’s jumper – A smarter option for keeping warm.   Men’s sports tops – For active days, something like this is really useful as it’s super-absorbent. Men’s sports shorts – If you’re doing some adventurous hikes or activities, you’ll want shorts you can move freely in. Swimming trunks – The more fun the pattern, the better! These ones have pockets and are quick dry too. Baseball cap – Look for one with a mesh back like this one , so it’s more breathable. Sunglasses – You can’t beat a classic pair of these Ray Bans !

Other general items to pack for Northern Italy

If you’re planning your trip, you should think about more than just clothing when you start packing. Here are a few items I’d recommend adding to your suitcase…

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy on your trip. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat like this to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Be prepared for those sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Umbrella – I’d also recommend an umbrella for rainy season. I’d been looking for a super compact option for ages, and finally found this one which fits in my small handbag and is nice and sturdy.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. I also took a small shoulder bag to use for going for dinner in the evenings. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality! I also really like these bottles with straws . They’re really easy to drink from, they have a strap, never leak and hold a good volume.

Power bank – It depends how much you use your phone on holiday, but I used mine a lot during my trip, snapping photos and videos along the way. A portable battery pack is a great idea so you don’t have to worry about running out of charge at an important moment.

I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges multiple items at once, using plugs or USB and can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets!

Dry bag – I’m really happy I invested in a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my northern Italy road trip! Looking to explore more of the country? Check out my southern Italy road trip itinerary ! 

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

Italy is one of my favourite places to visit! I’m desperate to visit Milan, Cinque Terre and Lake Como! So many beautiful places to explore!

Thank you Jess! I hope you get to visit soon. I absolutely adore Italy – esp the food!

What about Lake Garda and the Dolomite area? There is so much to see there but only Italian and Germans seem to know about this area.

Love that area too! So many places to choose from but this felt like a great route to pack a lot in!

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Amazing Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary (With Map)

Planning the ultimate northern Italy road trip, and have no idea yet where to go? Then I got you covered!

My husband and I have taken the perfect 10-day Italy road trip and I can tell you – the planning was a hassle! Since the trip turned out to be so perfect, I would say it was worth it!

So you can skip all the tedious planning, I will share all the details about our road trip in this post.

This includes an amazing 10-day Italy road trip itinerary and a two-week Italy trip itinerary, hotel recommendations, and the best things to do in each town.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Important information for your italy road trip, how to get around northern italy, the best time to go on a northern italy road trip, 10 day northern italy road trip itinerary at a glance, 2 week italy road trip itinerary, milan things to do, milan food lovers tour, historic milan tour with skip-the-line last supper ticket, milan duomo, archaeological area & rooftops private fast-track guided tour, treasures of milan: fashion and design private tour, where to stay in milan, lago di garda, things to do in verona, best tours in verona, where to stay in verona, where to stay in venice with a car, things to do in venice – northern italy road trip edition, best day tours in venice, things to do in florence, where to stay in florence, best tours and excursions in florence, where to stay in pisa, best tours in pisa, cinque terre, last stop on our northern italy road trip: milan, making it a two week northern italy road trip, conclusion: northern italy road trip itinerary, faq: 10 day northern italy road trip itinerary, about the author.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my  disclaimer  for further information.

🚗 Plan your route and destinations. I suggest picking the hotels below because they have great on-site parking and are very centrally located. This saves a lot of stress

🚗 Pack essential supplies for the drive, including water and snacks. Make sure your car has a first-aid kit and an extra wheel.

🚗 Get your vehicle serviced before hitting the road. If you have a rental car, you don’t need to worry about that one. The company will take care of it. I suggest booking with DiscoverCars, we had great experiences with them always.

🚗 Bring a physical map or have offline navigation options. Sometimes there is no phone reception, so unless you have GPS in your car, I suggest bringing a travel guide with a map.

🚗 Carry emergency supplies like a first aid kit.

🚗 Enjoy the journey and embrace unexpected detours. Don’t get worked up about detours, they can be fun!

🚗 Italy requires you to pay tolls on the road, keep that in mind while budgeting! Usually, they take credit cards but make sure to bring some cash.

🚗 In case of an emergency, for immediate medical attention or to call an ambulance dial 112  from any telephone in Italy.

🚗 Make sure you have an international driving permit.

🚗 Make sure to inform about the country in detail, there are a lot of useful things you need to know about Italy before you go.

🚗 Check out this list of 20 Italy travel apps to download from my friend Jade.

We booked a rental car with DiscoverCars and picked it up in Milan. This is a great way to get around Northern Italy for your road trip.

DiscoverCars offers amazing deals and is super reliable. Make sure to check it out for your road trip.

Do you need travel insurance in Italy? Yes, travel insurance in Italy is highly recommended. Avoid nasty surprises and travel worry-free with EKTA.   EKTA offers worldwide travel insurance  with 24/7 service and no hidden fees or restrictions.

The best time to go on this road trip is definitely off-season. All of the cities on this trip are quite busy, so it is best to avoid peak travel times.

We went during the Christmas holidays and over New Year’s Eve – which made the trip extra special! If you have the chance to go in winter, I can highly recommend it! Everything is beautifully decorated and it is not too cold to explore.

However, it can also be great to go during different times of the year. I have made a small breakdown of the seasons in Northern Italy and the weather!

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to explore Northern Italy as the weather gradually becomes warmer. The landscapes come to life with blooming flowers and it is an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the intense summer crowds. It might be too cold for swimming, so if you want to jump in the ocean, go at the end of May.
• Summer (June to August): Summer in Northern Italy is the peak tourist season, I would avoid that if possible. The weather is generally hot and sunny, especially in July and August. This can be quite uncomfortable. However, if you don’t mind the crowds, summer offers longer days and the opportunity to enjoy festivals, outdoor markets, and outdoor dining.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time for a road trip in Northern Italy. The temperatures start to cool down, and the landscapes show stunning fall foliage. September and October are particularly pleasant, with mild weather and fewer tourists. It’s a great time to explore vineyards, taste local wines, and visit picturesque towns. It is too cold for swimming after September, so keep that in mind.
• Winter (December to February): Northern Italy experiences colder temperatures and occasional snowfall during winter. Cities like Milan and Venice, have a quieter atmosphere. Winter can be a good time to experience the holiday season and enjoy attractions without the usual crowds. I prefer winter for the Northern Italy road trip.
• 2 nights in Milan
• Quick stop in Lago di Garda
• 1 night in Verona
• 3 nights in Venice
• 1 night in Florence
• 1 night in Pisa
• 1 day in Cinque Terre
• 1 night in Milan

For the 10-day Northern Italy road trip itinerary, I definitely suggest visiting famous cities such as Milan, Venice, and Florence. But also the smaller cities, such as Verona and Pisa are worth visiting.

As for beautiful scenery, we have added Lago di Garda as well as Cinque Terre to the itinerary. Both destinations are extremely beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

We have started and ended our road trip in Milan. Milan has the best airport connection in the area. Also, rental cars are cheaper if you return them to their original destination, so we planned this as a round-trip.

• 1 night in Lago di Garda
• 2 nights in Venice
• 2 nights in Florence
• 1 night in Cinque Terre
• 1 night in Genoa

10 days is a good time for this road trip itinerary. However, we felt like we could have used some additional days at some of the stops.

I don’t recommend adding more stops to the already busy itinerary, but I would add some more nights to Florence, Lago di Garda, and Cinque Terre.

Milan – Begin of the Northern Italy Road Trip

We chose Milan as a starting point for our ultimate Northern Italy road trip. The city is easy to reach by plane and we could easily find a rental car there. We decided to sleep in Milan for two nights, so we would have enough time to explore the city.

Milan is a vibrant city in Northern Italy and it is known for fashion, design, and finance. The city is a shopper’s paradise, there are many high-end fashion boutiques and the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Milan is also renowned for its culture and arts scene. The city has also a rich historical and cultural heritage, so there are many beautiful sights you can visit. Stunning Gothic churches and castles are awaiting you!

Milan hosts major international events, like Milan Fashion Week and the Milan Furniture Fair. If you are interested in these, make sure to check out the dates before you plan your road trip.

Food enthusiasts will absolutely love the traditional Italian cuisine. Make sure to check out risotto alla Milanese and panettone.

The city’s also has a great nightlife scene. There are lots of trendy bars, clubs, and rooftop terraces. Make sure to not stay out too long – otherwise driving is not safe the next day!

Milan is a beautiful city and has many great things for you to see. First and foremost, I suggest a nice walk through the city to pass by some famous landmarks. My three favorite things to see in Milan were the Duomo di Milano, the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele, and the Sforzesco castle.

If you are planning this stay ahead of time, you might want to reserve a spot to see the famous Last Supper painting.

Football fans will be drawn to the San Siro Stadium, which is the home of AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The famous La Scala opera house is the place to be for lovers of the theater. You should also explore world-class museums such as the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology.

The Santa Maria Delle Grazie is an amazing place to visit as well, this is where Leonardo Da Vinci painted The Last Supper.

If you are not sure where to go, I have a couple of great suggestions for tours and day trips in Milan you that you can choose from. Booking some day trips or tours ahead of time can save a lot of hassle and is a convenient way of exploring a city.

Guided Day Trips and Tours in Milan

My favorite tour in Milan is the food-lovers tour. You will tour Milan for two hours and be tasting local delicacies along the way. The tour is private and guided by a local, so this is a great way for Slow Travelers, that are more interested in learning about the culture.

The historic Milan tour is a great way to experience the city and its most important historical landmarks in three hours. Additionally, you will get to see the famous Last Supper painting without having to wait. This tour is definitely worth it – as you will see so much!

This private Milan tour is everything you need if you want to see some stunning archaeological sites as well as hang out on some impressive rooftops. I always recommend booking private or small-group tours for a more in-depth experience. This is definitely one of my favorite tours in Milan.

Fashionistas will absolutely love this private Treasures of Milan tour. Y ou will explore the Navigli district and see its canals as well as discover a few hidden fashion gems – and of course major international brands. Your informative guide will tell you everything you need to know about fashion in Milan.

We stayed in the AC Hotel by Mariott in Milan . The location is great and the service is amazing. Also it has a downstairs parking garage, so it was very convenient for our rental car.

We mainly chose to stay in the Mariott hotel chain on this trip, because they all have car garages and we could book them one day in advance without paying extra.

After leaving Milan early in the morning we headed towards Verona. On the way, we stopped at the Lago di Garda for lunch and to explore a bit. We loved this small pit stop because everything was lovingly decorated and very quiet at the time.

Lago di Garda is the largest lake in Italy. It offers stunning natural beauty with crystal-clear waters. I absolutely loved the picturesque landscapes. Garda’s shoreline is dotted with beaches, promenades, and waterfront restaurants, perfect for a lunchtime snack on the water.

Lago di Garda is surrounded by charming towns and villages, such as Sirmione and Malcesine. Both of them are great places for a lunch stop.

In summer, the lake is ideal for water activities like swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. Historical sites like the Scaliger Castle and Roman ruins should definitely be on your list!

If you are wine enthusiasts, like us, you can explore the nearby vineyards and taste the local wines, such as Bardolino and Lugana. I also suggest bringing some wine home with you, it is usually cheaper when buying directly at the vineyard.

We only stayed there for a couple of hours, but if you have the time, make sure to book a full-day Lake Garda tour.

We did not stay overnight on this Northern Italy road trip. If you have time available, I suggest staying at least one night at the Lefay Resort and Spa – the view from their terrace is to die for!

Verona – Home of Romeo and Juliet

Our second (actual) stop on our 10-day northern Italy road trip was Verona. The small city of Verona is famous for being the home of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. We arrived late in the afternoon in Verona and strolled around the city. There were beautiful Christmas decorations everywhere.

• Visit the iconic Verona Arena! It is an ancient Roman amphitheater that hosts opera performances and concerts. It looks also super stunning from the outside
• Explore Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) and its famous balcony! It is a popular spot for lovers and fans of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” It was my favorite thing to do in Verona.
• Wander through Piazza delle Erbe. This is a vibrant square surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and a lively market. A great spot for an Aperol Spritz!
• Take a stroll along the Adige River and enjoy the picturesque views of Verona’s bridges and historic architecture.
• Visit the stunning Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore. This is an impressive Romanesque church with beautiful frescoes and a beautiful courtyard.

If you are not comfortable with exploring by yourself or would rather have a guide, I suggest taking a guided tour. I love small-group or private guided tours, so I can learn a lot about the history and culture of a place.

Take a food tour or cooking class to learn about the culinary customs of the city!

I have hand-picked a couple of great guided tours in Verona for you:

• Verona City Sightseeing Walking Tour of Must-See Sites with Local Guide
• Verona Highlights Walking Tour in Small-group
• Verona Gelato Making Class
• The Verona Food, Wine & History, Lunch/sunset aperitif & skip the line cable car
• Fascinating Verona: in the Footprints of Romeo and Juliet

We stayed for one night at the Hotel Leon d’Oro in Verona. The hotel was within walking distance of all major sights, we got free breakfast and the rooms were very nice and spacious.

The Due Torri Hotel in Verona is also a great option.

From Verona, we headed on straight to Venice. Including Venice in the road trip was slightly difficult, because you can not bring cars into the city. However, we still desperately wanted to spend New Year’s Eve in Venice, so we made it happen! And it was much better than I could have imagined.

Venice is a unique and enchanting city in northeastern Italy. Venice is commonly known as the “Floating City.” It is built on 118 small islands, and they are connected by a network of canals and bridges.

Venice is especially famous for its picturesque canals, gondolas, and beautiful architecture. You can find many charming streets in Venice, and see hidden gems, cute little shops, and local restaurants.

The city is also renowned for its art and culture. Every year, Venice hosts the Venice Biennale art exhibition. Venice is above all famous for its annual Carnival. There is an impressive parade with colorful masks and stunning costumes.

Sadly, Venice is also facing some challenges. Rising water levels and over-tourism impact the island. They are trying to fight both, sadly to not much avail. However, it is still one of my favorite cities in the world – one you absolutely need to see.

The best option to stay in Venice with a car is on the Lido di Venezia. That’s a small island just off the coast of Venice city. You can reach it by ferry, which is super easy and cheap. We stayed at Hotel Villa Laguna and it was in my opinion the best stay on this trip.

The small boutique hotel is designed like a luxurious little Inn, with just a few suites. From our suite, you could see right over to the famous San Marco Square.

We watched the New Year’s Eve fireworks right from our bed and it was amazing!

The hotel offered free parking and a big breakfast buffet. I can totally recommend New Year’s Eve in Venice.

We spent our first day in Venice exploring the famous sights of the old city center. Strolling alongside the canals, walking over the Rialto bridge, and eating a pizza to go.

We checked out the bridge of sighs, took a gondola ride , and marveled at the Campanile and the San Marco Square. We visited the Doge’s palace and had a coffee in one of the oldest cafes in the world, Caffe Florian.

Venice is pretty easy to explore on foot. You can just dive right in and walk around the little island. The charm of Venice lies definitely in the picturesque little alleys with a mystical feel to them.

On the last day of the old year, we spent touring the small islands of Murano and Burano. They are famous for their colorful houses and their arts and crafts, such as glass blowing.

You can take a water taxi or a guided tour to the islands, or simply catch a ferry! This is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Venice and on this 10-day northern Italy road trip!

Taking a guided tour or a day trip is always a good idea. I have taken many tours and trips in Venice in the past, and I can recommend the experience. I have selected a couple of my favorite day tours in Venice for you here:

• L egendary Venice St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace
• Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano, and Torcello
• Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour

Our next stop on the 10-day northern Italy road trip was Florence. After a bit of a drive, we arrived in the beautiful city and checked into our hotel. There are many amazing things to do in Florence .

Florence is located in the heart of Tuscany. The city is renowned for its rich history, art, and architecture. It is also considered the birthplace of the Renaissance.

Florence’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with stunning architecture, charming streets, and lively piazzas. It is an amazing place to sit outside and enjoy a glass of Italian wine.

The city is also known for its culinary delights, including traditional Tuscan cuisine, world-class wines, and gelato.

We explored the beautiful city center on foot and checked out the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , the famous Ponte Vecchio , and the Galleria Uffici. Uffizi Gallery is home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. You can see Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and da Vinci’s “Annunciation.”

Another great thing to explore in Florence is the famous David statue from Michelangelo. Make sure to book a tour for this part of the trip, so you can skip the endless lines and see the statue with a guide.

Explore the Pitti Palace and its Boboli Gardens. They are a stunning oasis of beautiful lawns, fountains, and sculptures.

Also make sure to discover the beauty of the Basilica of Santa Croce, the final resting place of renowned figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.

Florence is only a short trip away from Rome, in case you are looking for day tours from Rome.

Our hotel experience in Florence was somewhat of a surprise. We booked the AC Hotel Firenze by Marriott and we got upgraded to their best suite because of our Marriott Members Status.

Our suite had a private sauna and hammam, a rooftop terrace as well as a super fancy bathroom. We will never forget that stay. If you feel like treating yourself – make sure to book that suite!

Even without the upgrade, it is an amazing hotel and something I can recommend. It is within walking distance of all major sights and has a great parking space.

• David & Accademia Gallery Tour – Florence 
• Skip the line: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Hidden Highlights Walking Tour
• Uffizi Gallery Small Group Tour with Guide

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

We continued our 10-day northern Italy road trip towards Pisa. This is also great for any Tuscany Road Trip.

Pisa is a historic city in Tuscany. It is mostly famous for its iconic Leaning Tower but there is a lot of other cultural heritage to see as well.

Aside from the Leaning Tower, the Piazza dei Miracoli is also home to the magnificent Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery. Both are extremely impressive to see.

The city’s historical center is also a great spot to check out. It features medieval architecture, including the well-preserved Piazza dei Cavalieri. This used to be the political center of Pisa.

Make sure to stroll along the Arno River and enjoy the atmosphere of the Lungarni, the picturesque waterfront promenades. Try some typical Tuscan dishes, such as Cecina (chickpea flatbread) and Cacciucco (a seafood stew).

This is a relaxing stop on the road trip itinerary, but one we enjoyed immensely.

We opted for the AC Hotel Pisa by Marriott again because of its great location and parking spaces.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable and we enjoyed some Gin & Tonics in their amazing bar downstairs.

The hotel is only a short walk away from the city center and all of the attractions, which makes it a great place to stay for a road trip.

Pisa Food Tour – Do Eat Better Experience

Private Pisa Discovery Walking Tour with Leaning Tower Access

A dream of mine was visiting the famous five villages of Cinque Terre. So we added the stop at the last minute to the itinerary.

Cinque Terre , the five towns, is a string of five old fishing villages perched high on the Italian Riviera in the region of Liguria. The towns are called Riomaggiore , Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso .

We did not stay overnight, but we had a full day to explore since the drive from Pisa is very short.

During the summer months, these villages are incredibly touristy and impossible to explore. We were grateful to have them almost to ourselves. Make sure to bring good shoes, there is a lot of walking down steps involved.

I have also visited Cinque Terre on my Western Mediterranean Cruise, in case you feel like exploring the area on the water.

After visiting Cinque Terre, we drove back to Milan. Because the drive was quite long, we stopped for dinner in Genoa. I

In Milan, we stayed one last night at the AC hotel, before heading to the airport on the next day.

This brought our amazing 10-day northern Italy road trip to an end.

If you have a bit more time on your hands, then I suggest making this a two-week northern Italy road trip. We felt slightly rushed with our itinerary, and we would have loved to spend an extra night in Cinque Terre, Florence, or Genoa.

In my opinion, two weeks is a great amount of time for this northern Italy road trip and if I had to do it all over again, I would stay even longer!

Not ready to end your time in Italy just yet? After Northern Italy, you should check out the beautiful Puglia region .

I really hope that this Northern Italy road trip itinerary will help you have the trip of a lifetime. All of the stops on this itinerary are incredibly interesting and beautiful.

The typical Italian cuisine, stunning architecture, and history make Northern Italy a great place for a road trip. The streets are in great condition and driving is luckily very easy. This Northern Italy itinerary covers all the highlights you need to see!

If you love Italy, speak Italian, and are looking for employment opportunities, check out such job listings on  Jooble .

If you don’t have enough of the road trips just yet, make sure to check out my Austria Road Trip Itinerary

Yes, driving in Italy is generally safe. However, it is important to be aware of certain factors. Italian drivers can be assertive and the traffic can be hectic, particularly in larger cities. It is advisable to follow traffic rules, be cautious while navigating narrow streets, and be prepared for parking challenges. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local driving laws and consider purchasing insurance coverage for your trip.

No, Italy does not drive on the opposite side of the road. Like most of mainland Europe, Italy follows right-hand traffic, where vehicles drive on the right side of the road.

If you are looking for a Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary, I suggest starting in Milan. Go from there to Verona, Lake Garda, Venice, and Florence. You can also visit Pisa, Cinque Terre, and Genoa on the way back to Milan.

Driving in Italy can be challenging, particularly in busy cities with narrow streets and aggressive drivers. However, if you are an experienced and confident driver, it can be manageable. Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules, be prepared for heavy traffic, and exercise caution while driving. Consider using GPS navigation and allow extra time for parking, as it can be difficult to find parking spaces in some areas.

I suggest taking at least 10 days to explore Northern Italy. Two weeks is the perfect time to explore Northern Italy and see the most famous cities, such as Venice, Milan, and Florence. This also gives enough time to see Lake Garda, Tuscany, and other beautiful spots

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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Northern Italy by Train Itinerary: Where to Go + How to do it + Info

by Drifter Planet | Jan 29, 2020 | Italy , Most Popular Blog Posts

An epic Northern Italy Itinerary that has everything – lakes, mountains, historical towns,

Italy has always been the centre of attention because of its beauty and culture. Year after year, it ranks in the top 10 as one of the most visited countries in the world . Italy is where you can really experience it all – the best food, beaches , mountains, canals, art, architecture, luxury cars, and history. Can you believe Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage sites in the world?

Italy’s amazingness isn’t just due to its rich culture or fascinating history, or even the scenic beauty. It is more than that.

It is about experiencing the mediterranean climate, the joy of sitting on a chair along the street in one of the cafes while sipping espresso, tasting the simplicity of food that’s cooked with just 3-5 ingredients, seeing the locals communicate with energetic gestures and listening to the musical sound of Italian chatter. 

An outdoor restaurant in Tuscany, Italy – CC0 by Nina Evensen from Pixabay

If you look at the map of Italy, you will notice the country is shaped like a boot. It is surrounded by water on almost all sides, except the top of the boot. As you go down from the top of the boot to the toe, you will see how the landscape changes from mountains and alpine lakes, to vineyards, and to the beaches. 

Broadly speaking, the regions can be divided into the below sections, and in brackets are the most famous destinations of the regions so that you can get an idea – 

• Northeast Italy, (the Dolomites, Trentino , Venice and Bologna) 
• Northwest Italy, (Cinque Terre, Milan and the Alps)
• Central Italy, (Tuscany region and Rome)
• Southern Italy, (Naples, Puglia , Amalfi and Capri)
• The islands – Sicily and Sardinia.

Each region of Italy offers something completely unique, and there is so much to experience in this incredibly exciting country. You don’t even need to go to the most popular destinations to enjoy the beauty of Italy. 

Beautiful village Tavon in Val di Non , Coredo, Italy

Even if you’re in one of the most unknown towns that doesn’t have a single person who speaks English, you will have an incredible time. Italians have a skill of communicating well with their exaggerated hand gestures, so language isn’t usually a barrier.

Moreover, almost all the towns have pretty streets and lovely town squares with something historic. Most of the city centre also have a free water fountain where you can fill up your bottles.

No doubt all the regions of Italy have something to offer, but the north of Italy is where you will find many of the country’s famous destinations and that’s what this post is all about. Yes, I’m talking about the Lake Como, the Renaissance city of Florence, the canals of Venice, Cinque Terre’s colorful coastline, the majestic Dolomites and the fashionable Milan. 

You can travel internally in the North of Italy in many ways but getting around by road is the best option to experience the natural beauty. 

In particular, getting around by rail is easy and convenient. You can sit back and relax as you gaze out from your window and see the beauty of the country. This is why rail holidays to Italy are super popular . They are relaxing, luxurious and can provide you a good value for money.

Another option is to arrive in Italy by air and rent a car from the airport. You can check and compare the car rental prices here from many different car rental companies.

Northern Italian Train Destinations + Itinerary

Northern Italy has an amazingly extensive train network that connect many of the country’s top destinations. We have made a train itinerary for you that can be shortened or lengthened based on your preferences. You can start this itinerary from top to bottom – Venice to Rome, or the other way round from Rome to Venice. 

The below map is just a very broad depiction of this route map. At this time Google Maps doesn’t let users create a route map with multiple train stops and this is why I have selected a driving map to give you a general idea.

We have mentioned 5 main parts of Northern Italy and optional destinations around those parts that are worth visiting. For instance, if you’re more into art or history and are super short of time, then you can just do Venice, Florence, and end your trip in Rome. However, we suggest you do a mix of both – the big cities and smaller towns so that you can experience Italy’s true natural beauty.

Here are some of the places that you can visit on a rail itinerary in this part of the country. 

Venice (Optional: Trento, Lago di Grada, Lago di Braies) – 3 – 4 Days

Grand Canal in Venice – Northern Italy by Train – CCO via Pixabay

When thinking of Italy, Venice is always one of the first destinations that spring to mind. This floating city is known for its network of canals and bridges. Because of its geographical placement, it is the perfect way to start (or end) your Italy by train itinerary. You can explore the northeastern and northwestern parts of Italy very easily with your starting point as Venice. 

Being a major tourist destination, Venice is well connected by train routes. In fact, the easiest way to reach this city surrounded by water is by train, and you can take one from Austria, Slovenia or Germany. You can also arrive here on a ferry from Pula in Croatia . Or, you can just fly to Venice airport to start your Italy train trip. 

A bridge over a pretty canal in Venice, Italy – CCO – by travelspot via Pixabay

Forget about cars here – Venice is all about getting around via boat. There really is no place in the world quite like Venice, and it should definitely be added to any Italian travel itinerary. 

Besides the beautiful canals and gondolas, Venice is also known for many famous landmarks and attractions.  These include the Doges Palace, St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Campanile di San Marco, and many more. The buzz and energy experienced when walking around Venice is unlike any other city. After you spend around 2 days in Venice , then consider getting out to see the mountains.

Lago di Braies or The Pragser Wildsee, North Italy – CC0 by vaiunruh via Pixabay

Venice can is a good starting point for you to see Italy’s mountains to see the Lake Grada or Lake Braies or the Dolomites. You can start off in Venice, head to Lake Grada (stations are Desenzano del Garda / Sirmione). If you have more time on your hands, then you can extend this part of your trip to experience the scenic towns around Lake Garda . Or go further up to Trentino.

If you’d like to see the Dolomites, then we suggest you take a train to Trento and consider going further up north to experience the Trentino region. You can include places like Val di Non , the spectacular lesser known Lake Tovel and also Alpe Cimbra . This part of Italy has some of the best lakes in Europe . We actually drove here from Venice with our rental car in 2018 and loved it.

Lake Como ( Optional Lake Orta & Milan) – 2 Days

The lovely Lake Como in Italy – CC0 – by EzPzPics via Pixabay

Italy has some amazing lakes and you can find the most famous ones in the north. These lakes are big, beautiful with the perfect alpine backdrops. They have been attracting travelers for many years.

Thanks to their stunning natural scenery, pretty lakeside towns, ancient villas, perfect gardens, and 19th-century hotels, a holiday along the Italian lakes is all about a luxurious and laid back experience. In the last part we spoke about Lake Grada and Lake Tovel, that are in Trentino region but here we will tell you how to visit Lake Como and Lake Orta.

Don’t let Italy’s more famous destinations like Rome and Venice make you leave out Lake Como in your itinerary. Lake Como (or Lago di Como) is awesome and it will make you fall in love with Italy.

Stay for a few days in one of the little towns along Lake Como and you wouldn’t want to leave. Remember the idyllic Naboo from Star Wars II Attack of the Clones ? It was filmed along Lake Como. 

Varenna, Lake Como, Northern Italy by Train itinerary – CCO Image by travelspot via Pixabay

Lake Como is the most well known of the lakes in Italy. This enormous body of water is speckled with the most charming towns, speedboats, grand hotels, and phenomenal views. This far northern part of Italy is very close to Switzerland, so it offers a completely different atmosphere altogether. 

Lake Como has a shape of an inverted “Y”, so the legs are towards the south. The most scenic villages along Lake Como are up in the north because of the mountains.

Lake Orta, Italy by train – CC0 by Fabio Valeggia via Pixabay

If you would like to experience the magnificent lakes, then taking a rail holiday is one of the best ways to do it. You can experience the Lake Como by taking a train to Como Nord Lago, Como Nord Borghi or Como San Giovanni . You can extend this part of your trip to also visit the Lake Orta by taking a train to Pettenasco .

Depending on your route, you may have to stop at Milan or change trains here. Why not stay for a day in Milan and experience the country’s fashion capital?

The Cinque Terre (Optional Turin) – 3 Days

The colorful houses of Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy – CCO by heidi_ziller via Pixabay

The Cinque Terre is one of the most impressive coastal destinations in Italy. This stretch of scenic coastline is dotted with five of the most magnificent little towns in Italy. These are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso. Out of all these towns, Manarola is the one that you see on most of the pictures. 

Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre – CC0 by Zotx via Pixabay

The Cinque Terre is best known for its beach, harbors, hiking trails, local wines, and perfect pastel-coloured villages. There are no cars in the Cinque Terre, and each town is connected via train. This makes rail travel the best way of reaching this area. If you are planning a railway itinerary in northern Italy, including a stop at the Cinque Terre is easy.

Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre – Northern Italy by train – CC0 by Felix Wolf from Pixabay

From Milan or Como Nord Lago train stations, you can head to Turin. Either stay here or get on a train to Rapallo . From Rapallo, you can take a ferry to experience the Cinque Terre villages. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Rapallo to Monterosso .

Another option is to take a train directly from Germany to Cinque Terry by travel via the Rhine Gorge and Gotthard Pass to experience the best of Cinque Terre. 

Florence, Tuscany (Optional Umbria) 3 – 5 Days 

Sunset in Florence, Tuscany, Italy – CC0 by Mark Gilder via Pixabay

Tuscany and Umbria are two Italian regions that cover some of the most attractive sights and points of interest in the country. Did you know that the Renaissance art movement started from Italy? It happened right here in Tuscany.

Both Tuscany and Umbria form a part of Italy is that’s very green. In fact, Umbria is also called the “green heart of Italy”, so you will get to experience the nature, the history and the art scene in Tuscany and Florence together.

The real beauty of this area is outside the cities and town – that’s where you will get the typical picture postcards style landscapes.

Tuscany’s famous rolling hills – Italy by train – CCO by monica_valladares from Pixabay

Nestled in the rolling green hills and scenic landscapes of these areas, you will find cities like Florence, Siena, Assisi, Pisa, and Perugia. Between the art, food, wine, history, and natural beauty – there are so many things to experience around here. 

Suggested: Visit Lecc e, the Florance of South Italy [Puglia]

These regions are conveniently located, being within easy reach of major cities. This makes a train journey around these regions very easy.  To experience this region by train, you need to arrive in either Perugia (for Umbria) or Florence (for Tuscany).

Tavernelle – Perugia – Umbria, Italy

If you’re arriving here from the Monterosso or Rapallo train stations because you were visiting the Cinque Terre, then you can take a train directly to Lucca , make a quick side trip to see the leaning tower of Pisa and then head to Florence – a city where it all began.   To experience the best of Tuscany, you can stay for a few days in Florence and then take a train to Siena to explore the Chianti vineyards . You may want to read this Florence travel guide to gather more information about this legendary destination.  

If you have some time on your hand then you can visit Umbria right after Tuscany. From Siena, you can enter the Umbria region by taking a train to Perugia and head to Assisi and Spoleto from there. You can also make a trip to Lake Lucerne or visit Capri from Florence. If you don’t want to spend too much time in Tuscany, you can just visit Florence for a quick visit from Rome.

Rome (Optional Castel di Tora or Naples, Pompeii ) – 2 Days

The bejeweled Rome in Italy – CC0 by Nimrod Oren via Pixabay

Rome is Italy’s capital and most well-loved destination. This ancient city has so much going on, and any holiday to the country should definitely include a stop here. Every single thing in Rome has a history, even a bench along the street.

Rome is characterized by its world-famous landmarks and history , delicious cuisine, vibrant streets, and architectural beauty. Wherever you walk in this city, you will be faced with postcard-perfect scenes.  With its renowned museums, churches, Colosseum, Vatican City, piazzas, fountains, and more, Rome offers the ultimate Italian experience. Being the capital city, Rome is very well-connected and easy to travel to. 

Even the streets in Rome are lovely – CC0 by djedj via Pixabay

While in Rome, you can also easily visit the Vatican City. You don’t even have to make a day trip because it is right there.

Just 50 KMs away from Rome is the stunning Castel di Tora along the Turano Lake. It is a medieval village with lovely narrow streets and stunning viewpoints. The best part is that it next to the water. Include Castel di Tora in your itinerary if you have a little more time in Rome and you’d like to get away from the maddening crowds.

Rome is also a good starting point to see the Northern Italy if you want to start this itinerary from reverse, that is, from south to north. Start at Rome, head to Perugia, then Florence, then to Bologna and finally Venice. You can also alter this route by heading to the Cinque Terre villages at the end instead. Rome can be a part of many different kinds of train itineraries and you can also consider starting in Switzerland.

In case you want to take a peek at the gems of southern Italy, then you will be happy to know that they’re not far from Rome. It will take you just 3 hours to reach Naples and the Pompeii ruins.

Northern Italy Train Travel

The destinations above are some of the most popular stopping grounds in northern Italy. However, you can still customize your trip by adding stops at places like Milan, Bologna, San Gimignano, Verona, and Trentino.  Starting your trip in either Venice or Rome, and traveling between these destinations is easy to do. 

Final Thoughts about Northern Italy by Train Itinerary

If you are planning to explore Italy, then getting around by train is one of the best ways to do it. Italian rail holidays are convenient, and they offer fantastic views and experiences along the way. Traveling by train in Italy is quick and comfortable so it makes a lot of sense. The northern Italy is full of incredible places to visit and varied regions. Visiting some of the above mentioned destinations will give you an excellent taste of Italy that you will remember for life.

Did follow our Northern Italy itinerary?

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The Pragser Wildsee is stunning! Would love to visit it. So many other beautiful places in Northern Italy!

Oh wow, I had no idea that the train connections in northern Italy are well developed. I love traveling by train and haven’t seen these lakes yet 😏

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Last Updated on February 26, 2023 by Drifter Planet

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Places to Visit in North Italy

15 Best Places to Visit in North Italy

The northern region of Italy is known locally as Il Nord or Settentrione and consists of eight separate regions – Peidmont, Liguria, Aosta Valley, Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto. In terms of population, this region of Italy has an estimated population of at least 27.2 million inhabitants. Northern Italy has a diverse geography due to its two coastal regions, and the mountainous region of the Alps and Apennines. Parts of the region are packed full with dramatic mountain landscapes, whilst other areas particularly on the eastern coast are flat on entering the Adriatic Sea. This part of Italy is actually the most economically productive and has a host of important manufacturing regions that help give it one of the highest GDPs per capita in Europe.

For the budding tourist, this region of Italy is simply bursting with historical cities waiting to be explored. In the far north, you can explore the Alps, try your hand at skiing and visit some of the quaint mountainside towns. On the east coast you can visit the enchanting island city of Venice or the historical port of Trieste. Furthermore in the central regions of Northern Italy you have several magnificent and immense cities such as Milan, Turin and Bologna that have a myriad of interesting sites and attractions. Due to the regions varied landscape, rich history and plethora of fine cities, there is something for everyone’s tastes.

Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Northern Italy :

Milan is one of the largest cities in Italy and is renowned for its culture, history, economy and also its plethora of high-end designer shopping outlets.

This vast metropolis boasts some absolutely sublime architecture and a myriad of historical buildings that have played an important role in the shaping of Italy.

Notable sites include the unbelievable gothic Duomo with its intricate façade and gorgeous stained glass windows, the epic Sforzesco castle with its huge grounds and gardens, the infinitely interesting Da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology, and the opulent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This city has something for everyone – from shopping to sight-seeing and museums.

Venice is dubbed as one of the most romantic cities in the world and it is easy to see why when you walk through its many narrow cobbled streets and canals.

Located in the Venetian lagoon, Venice is an island city that is formed from hundreds of individual islands all joined together by a network of canals and bridges.

The central Grand Canal is a magnificent site and the buildings that line it look simply beautiful.

Furthermore, St. Mark’s Square is an absolute must see with the opulent cathedral, the immense bell tower and the flocks of pigeons.

Alternatively, if you want to relax and soak up the sun you can travel via water taxi to the Venice Lido and enjoy the long stretch of golden beach.

Don’t forget to visit the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs and Doges Palace too!

Although an economic powerhouse and one of the main industrial centres in Italy, Turin still retains much of its history and charm and has an amazing amount of sites and attractions.

Located in the western part of Northern Italy, Turin was once the capital of the country and has always been an important cultural and economic stronghold.

Today you can see some amazing sites such as the decadent Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama, the gigantic and domineering Mole Antonelliana and the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista.

Additionally ensure to take a trip to the fascinating Turin Egyptian museum and see the face of Jesus in the fabled Turin Shroud.

Bologna is one of the largest cities in Italy and is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region.

This city has a strong economic presence in the manufacturing and financial industries and is also a major transport hub.

In terms of tourism, Bologna is known as the city of towers due to its plethora of historical high-rise structures.

The leaning towers of Bologna and Torre Prendiparte for example are fascinating and beautiful structures that dominate the skyline of the city.

Aside from the towers, Bologna also has some amazing Piazzas and religious buildings such as Piazza Maggiore and the Cathedral of San Petronio.

Finally, for those who enjoy the arts and culture, Bologna has a selection of fine museums and galleries such as the Archaeological Museum and the National Gallery.

Genoa is a magnificent city located on the southern coast of Northern Italy on the Ligurian Sea.

As the 6th largest city in the country, and as a major port, Genoa has major significance for the economy of the country and has always played a prominent role in the history of Italy.

The city walls of Genoa were once expansive and the Porta Soprana is one of the remaining gates from this once impenetrable fortress.

In the city centre you can admire some fine architecture in public spaces such as the Piazza Ferrari and the Piazza Matteotti.

Moreover the Aquarium and Maritime Museum are fantastic for those who want to learn about marine life and the history of Genoas port.

Don’t forget to walk around the immense port and see the hectic hustle and bustle of commercial shipping activitiy!

This northern city is located in-between Bologna and Milan and is renowned for its beautiful Prosciutto Ham and cheese varieties.

Due to the cities long history and involvement with various factions and wars throughout the years it has a range of impressive structures, beautiful Piazzas and intriguing museums.

Parma Cathedral is considered one of the finest Romanesque structures in Italy and the adjoining Baptistery is just as opulent.

This city also has several fantastic theatres such as the Teatro Farnese and the Teatro Regio that offer the perfect venue to see a show.

Also consider visiting the national gallery that contains an immense collection from individuals including Da Vinci and Van Dyck.

Verona is often overshadowed by other major Italian cities but it has one of the finest historical centres in the country and some absolutely stunning sites.

The main site of Verona is undoubtedly the Arena – this huge structure rivals the Colosseum of Rome and is just as spectacular.

Furthermore the Castle Vecchio and the connecting Ponte Vecchio are amazing structures to visit and provide a look at the history of Verona.

This city also features some impressive religious structures such as Verona Cathedral and the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, but also a myriad of gorgeous Piazzas such as the Piazza Delle Erbe and the Piazza Bra.

Finally, Verona lies in close proximity to Lake Garda which is a brilliant region to explore.

8. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is a hugely popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The landscapes and scenery surrounding Lake Garda are simply jaw dropping – the combination of forest covered mountains and small terracotta roofed villages create an idyllic setting.

Towns such as Sirmione and Bardolino provide perfect venues to explore the lake from and offer a myriad of sites and high quality eateries.

Consider taking a boat trip on this immense lake and travelling between some of the gorgeous lakeside villages whilst taking in the sublime scenery.

Trieste can be found in the eastern part of Northern Italy on the coast of the Gulf f Trieste – this city lies in close proximity to Slovenia and the border can be reached in under 20 minutes.

Due to its close proximity to Slovenia, Trieste actually has a different feel and culture to the rest of Italy and has been influence greatly by its close ties to its neighbouring country.

The harbour of Trieste is a fantastic place to explore and the connecting Canale Grande has some beautiful surrounding architecture.

This city also features a series of castles, Roman ruins and opulent religious structures.

When exploring the Harbor, don’t forget to take a stroll down the Molo Audace which is a 300m long promenade that juts out into the sea.

10. Alessandria

Alessandria can be found in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy and is a fantastic place to visit despite its smaller size.

With great transport links to Milan, Turin and Genoa the city serves as a transport hub and is easily accessible.

The impressive Cittadella di Alessandria sits proudly on the banks of the River Tanaro and can be reached by crossing the modern Ponte Meier footbridge.

If you like military history and displays, the Museo delle Divise Militari provides a fantastic insight into the operations of the Italian Military.

Alternatively, if you enjoy walking and architecture, the Piazza Garibaldi and the Piazza della Liberta are great places to explore in the centre of the town.

11. Brescia

Only a stone’s throw from Lake Garda and Verona, Brescia is a beautiful city in the heart of Lombardy.

This city is one of the main industrial regions of the country and contributes a great deal to the GDP of Italy.

Brescia combines fantastic historical sites together with some gorgeous areas of natural beauty to create a city that everyone can enjoy.

In terms of architecture, Brescia boasts the ancient Roman Tempio Capitolino, the impressive Duomo Nuovo, and the historic Broletto.

Furthermore, in terms of natural sites, Brescia is located in close proximity to Lake Iseo which contains the beautiful Monte Isola, and also only a short distance away is the magnificent Mount Maddalena.

Brescia is also ideally located to venture to Lake Garda and the neighbouring city of Verona.

12. Ferrara

Ferrara has a favourable location between Bologna in the south and Venice in the north.

This city offers the perfect base to explore the eastern side of Northern Italy and also contains some beautiful structures and historical sites.

The main site of Ferrara is the Estense Castle – this gorgeous wooden castle sits on its own lake and has become a symbol of the city.

Also found within the city centre is the interesting Archaeological museum, the Palazzo dei Diamanti and the Cathedral of Saint George.

Finally, Ferrara was once a medieval city and had a complete defensive network – today you can see sections of the city walls and admire their design.

Located within the greater metropolitan area of Milan, Monza is a fantastic tourist destination in its own right and has some amazing sites.

If you are located in Milan and want a day trip, Monza offers the perfect location.

Possibly the best known attraction of Monza is the historic Formula One Racing Track and the immense Parco di Monza.

The park covers a vast area and as some beautiful villas, gardens and wooded areas – you could spend hours walking through its many trails.

Inside the park, the Autodromo is also a great place to visit and if you are lucky enough, watching a Formula One race here is a true treat.

Aside from the park, Monza also features the opulent Duomo di Monza and the gorgeous Ponte dei Leoni.

Como and the lake of the same name is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in Italy and is known for its jaw-dropping mountainous landscapes.

Como itself features some grand architecture such as the 14th century Cathedral and the Basilica di Sant’Abbondio.

If you want to see some epic mountain landscapes then take the Brunate funicular to look down onto the expanse of the majestic lake.

When you have seen all the city has to offer, take to the waters of Lake Como and enjoy a sublime boat ride or visit one of the lakeside towns such as Bellagio, Lierna and Dervio – these towns offer some amazing views across the lake and the chance to relax in a fine restaurant or café.

Udine is located in the eastern part of Italy near the Slovenian border.

This city has been influenced greatly by other cultures crossing the Italian border and has an extensive history.

The castle of Udine is a mighty structure created in the 16th century and sits as a major landmark in the historic town centre.

Other interesting structures of note include the Loggia del Lionello, the Cathedral of Udine and the Chiesa di San Giacomo.

Aside from the architecture, Udine has several important museums, a selection of beautiful public parks, and several gorgeous Piazzas.

15 Best Places to Visit in North Italy:

• Alessandria

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Tori Pines Travels

creating action-packed and culture rich vacations

International , Italy · November 6, 2023

25 Best Towns & Cities in Northern Italy to Visit

Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Tori Pines

Italy might be one of the highest tourist countries, for good reason, central Italy is the part that gets the most attention. But there are so many incredible towns and cities in Northern Italy worth exploring as well. Sure, you’ve heard of Milan and Venice, which will definitely be included here, but there are so many other fabulous destinations that you should include on your Italian itinerary as well!

Learn all about these beautiful destinations full of charm, history and of course delicious food. And find the spots that call your name to add to your next Italian getaway.

I have personally been to Northern Italy and enjoyed some of what it has to offer, but I wanted to give you even more options to explore. So, I’ve recruited travel bloggers who have personally visited each of these destinations to tell you all about their favorite towns and cities in Northern Italy. They explored the cobblestone streets and enjoyed the food. Met the locals and learned the history.

This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!

Map of the Towns & Cities in Northern Italy

Table of Contents

Val di funes.

• Cortina D'Ampezzo

Region of Liguria, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Kim of Traveling Swansons

Manarola is one of the best cities to visit in Northern Italy.  Nestled on Italy’s stunning Cinque Terre coast, this tiny village is the perfect blend of charming and breathtaking. With its vibrant buildings clinging to rugged cliffs and the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea below, you’ll have to pinch yourself to believe it’s real.

It’s very easy to get to Cinque Terre.  If you’re coming from a larger city in Italy, hop on a train to La Spezia and then switch to the Cinque Terre line.  It is not recommended to drive to Cinque Terre because the streets are narrow and there is nowhere to park. 

Spring and early fall are the golden times to visit. The weather is just perfect, and you won’t be bumping elbows with as many tourists as you would in the summer.

Once you’re there, there’s no shortage of awesome things to do. Marvel at the ancient beauty of the Church of San Lorenzo.  Take a walk through the terraced vineyards that are iconic to this region and enjoy a glass or two of the local Sciacchetrà wine. A boat tour of the five villages is also a must-do adventure to soak in the beauty of Cinque Terre.

And for the perfect end to your day, grab a seat at Nessun Dorma. This open-air restaurant sits high on a cliff, giving you the most stunning views of the village and the sea while you enjoy a drink and some light bites.

Where to Stay:   Hotel Marina Piccola

Recommended by Chris of Around the World with Me

One of the most beautiful small towns in northern Italy is the old fishing village of Portofino on the Ligurian Riviera . In modern times, the sleepy little coastal fishing village has evolved into a getaway for Italy’s rich and famous. Seeing luxury yachts docked in the small bay is not uncommon.

For the average traveler, however, Portofino still offers plenty of affordable and exciting things to do. While wining and dining in Portofino is expensive, walking around the small village and along its historic promenade is totally free.   

Portofino is located on the coast of Liguria, near Genoa, and the best way to get there is by car. There is no train to Portofino, so if you’re using public transportation, you’ll have to take the train to Santa Margherita Ligure and then take the bus to Portofino from there. 

The best time of year to visit Portofino is April – October, with the exception of August, which, as everywhere else in Italy, is jam packed for the Italian summer holiday. The village is small and can easily be seen in half a day.

I recommend the following points of interest for your day in Portofino:

• Baia Cannone (small bay lined with massive villas that you can swim in)
• Castello Brown (a short hikes takes you to a little castle with an amazing view of the village)
• Cala Marconi promenade (a coastal promenade lined with restaurants and shops)  

Where to Stay: Olives Bay Terrace in Portofino

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Recommended by Sarah of Life Part 2 and Beyond

Many tourists visiting Italy bypass Genoa and head straight to the more popular destinations along the Ligurian coast, like Cinque Terre and Portofino. But I’m telling you, Genoa is a great place to visit , and one of the best cities in northern Italy.

You can easily get there by train, bus, or plane, and it is a beautiful city with fewer tourists, so it feels so much more Italian and authentic. 

To explore the city, I’d recommend either taking a walking tour to get your bearings and learn about the city’s history or simply just wander around the historic center, the largest in Europe. 

You should visit the stunning cathedral and see its unusual interior. Take a peek at the simple home of Christopher Columbus (he was born in Genoa) and the fancy Palazzi de Rolli on Via Garibaldi, which were once homes for Genoa’s most affluent citizens. 

For a fantastic view of the city and the harbor, take the Art Deco elevator up to Spianata Castelletto.

Be sure to also explore the old harbor, visit the fantastic aquarium and museums and ride the Bigo Panoramic Lift for another excellent harbor view. 

If you have an extra day, I’d suggest going to the nearby colorful fishing village of Boccadasse or take a train to Nervi, a suburb of Genoa, where you can enjoy a stunning two-kilometer walk along the coast on Anita Garibaldi’s promenade.

Genoa is a beautiful city to explore any time of the year, but Spring and Autumn are my favorite months to visit as the weather is perfect for exploring. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Astoria

Region of Piemonte, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Carly of Fearless Female Travels

I spent several years living in Northern Italy, and my favorite town to visit for the day was always Rivoli . Located about twenty kilometers west of Turin, Rivoli is easy to reach from the busy city center but still retains its medieval, small-town charm.

You can get to Rivoli by bus from Turin’s city center (while you can take the metro halfway, it doesn’t save much time) or you can easily drive in less than half an hour. Once you arrive in Rivoli, park or get off the bus near the entrance to the historic center and then begin wandering up the hill, along the narrow pedestrian streets that lead to scenic views of the Italian Alps and, eventually, the Castello di Rivoli. Formerly one of the Savoy dynasty’s many palaces, today it is one of Europe’s best contemporary art museums. 

You can visit Rivoli year-round, although the walk down from the castle can be a bit slippery in the snow. Regardless of season, I recommend visiting on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, as the museum is open and you’ll avoid the weekend crowds. 

Where to Stay: Casa Piolti

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Recommended by Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Cannobio is known for its beautiful waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants where one can enjoy local dishes, while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore. It’s one of the best cities in northern Italy. The village’s cobblestone streets are a popular place to visit among tourists, but also has a strong homely vibe for locals. 

It’s worth visiting on a sunny warm day so that you can walk around and explore best. You can get there easiest by car or a local bus, else you can arrive by boat (weather permitting) from many villages around the Lago Maggiore, such as Verbania in Italy or Ascona in Switzerland .

For things to do, there is a Sunday market where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses. It’s also a great opportunity to buy something local such as a piece of clothing, leather bags and accessories. Otherwise you can join a local food and wine tasting tour!

For the adventurous types, hike up to Monte Giove at elevation 1298 meters or to the Orrido of Saint Anna scenic nature spot. Else to go swimming in the lake!

For those looking for Italian dishes, we recommend a table at Oggi Pasta . It’s a small, hidden restaurant down one of the streets, but super cozy, fast service with delicious pastas and pizzas. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Pironi

Region of Valle D’Aosta, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Merryl of Merryl’s Travel & Tricks

Nestled in the picturesque Aosta Valley of northern Italy, Courmayeur is among the prettiest towns in the region. This delightful destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of mountain landscapes. The town can easily be reached from the city of Turin by both train and bus routes. While having a car provides flexibility, it’s not a necessity, as public transit, such as buses and cable cars, efficiently connects visitors to the town.

The best time to visit Courmayeur largely depends on your interests. Winter draws skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, while the summer months reveal lush hiking trails, making it a year-round gem. When in Courmayeur, a visit to the famous Skyway Mont Blanc cable car is a must, offering breathtaking views of the Alps. Here, you can take a cable car from Italy into France and even spend a day visiting the charming French hamlet of Chamonix.

Additionally, explore the charming streets of the town, filled with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants serving delectable Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to take in the stunning Mont Blanc massif, which provides a spectacular backdrop to this mountain paradise.

Where to Stay: Auberge de La Maison

Region of Lombardy, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child

One of the most beautiful cities to visit in Northern Italy is Como. Located at the southern tip of Lake Como in the Lombardy region, which runs parallel to the majestic Swiss lake, Lugano, visiting the city of Como must be included in a Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary !  

Como is a thriving city with picturesque views from all around. It also has a Gothic cathedral, renowned restaurants, museums, a waterfront promenade, and luxury hotels. Because it offers a lot, it makes for a great base while you explore everything surrounding one of Northern Italy’s most beautiful lakes.

The best way to get to Como is by taking the train to Como San Giovanni station. You can easily get there from Milan. While in Como, it’s easiest to get around by walking. If you plan to explore other towns and villages around the lake, there is a ferry you can take.

Since you’ll want to spend a lot of time on the lake, visiting Como between late April and early October is best. Please note that the lake will still be too cold to swim in during the shoulder months, and you’ll need a jacket during the evenings.

One of the best things to do in Como is to book a private boat tour around the lake where you can explore the different villages like Bellagio and Varenna, along with celebrity homes like George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, Richard Branson’s Villa La Cassinella, and Gianni Versace’s Villa Fontanelle. You must also take a cooking class in the city and ride the Como-Brunate funicular that overlooks the beautiful lake and surrounding mountains. 

Where to Stay: Hilton Lake Como

Recommended by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

If you’re craving a taste of Italian city life, a vibrant place to visit is Milan, the largest of the cities in northern Italy. Located in the Lombardy region, Milan is home to an efficient public transportation network that makes viewing all the sights and wonders easy! For example, the most famous landmark is the Duomo di Milano, which reveals stunning Gothic architecture. I remember seeing it for the first time and being speechless by the Duomo’s sheer size and beauty. Or, if you’re looking to do some luxury shopping, pass through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which offers all kinds of high-end designer stores! It was out of my budget, but the architecture is still worth admiring. When you’re ready to delve into the mouthwatering world of Italian dishes , take the metro to the Navigli district. This is the perfect spot for a leisurely dinner or to grab drinks with friends.

In terms of when to visit, August or September is ideal. This is when the weather is best, and the crowds start to die down. Those interested can fly into one of the three nearby airports or arrive via the regional train. Thus, if you’re looking to experience the magic of the fashion capital of Europe, then consider visiting Milan!

Where to Stay: AC Hotel Milano

Recommended by Kenny of Knycx Journeying

Lombardy is one of the most visited regions in Italy with a rich history, classical art, great food, and fashion. The capital city, Milan has a lot to offer with a number of charming small towns in its surroundings. Like Tirano, a small town in north Lombardy adjacent to the Alps bordering Switzerland – it’s considered a great destination for a day trip or a short getaway from Milan. 

Tirano is about 166 kilometers away from Central Milan. It is home to many impressive attractions and outdoor experiences for worldwide tourists. To get there, the train ride takes about 3 hours. The train ride from Milan to Tirano itself is a scenic train journey because it runs along the famous Lake Como, a well-known resort area at the foothills of the Alps. 

Tirano’s old town is very walkable. Take a half-day to check out the old architecture on the cobbled road and tranquil river, and a highlight would be the Catholic shine of the Madonna di Tirano.  

Tirano is also famous for being the starting point of the popular scenic train Bernina Express, operating all year round and connecting with Chur in Switzerland. 

If you are visiting in winter, Tirano is located close to a number of ski resorts in the Alps. Winter is also a wonderful time to kick start or complete the train journey from Switzerland because passengers will be witnessing how the train makes its way through the steep and rugged terrain, passing over 196 bridges and 55 tunnels in the snow. 

Where to Stay: Ostello del Castello Tirano

Recommended by Jenny of TraveLynn Family

Sitting on the eastern shores of Lago Maggiore , Laveno is a picturesque town with a direct train from Milan for those traveling on public transport. Here the foothills of the Alps tower over the glistening lake and the scenery is breath-taking.  One of the best cities in northern Italy.

To truly appreciate the views, ride the cable car up to Sasso del Ferro (altitude approx. 1,100 m) from Laveno in what looks like a big green bucket. The 10 minute journey isn’t for the faint hearted, as it’s quite steep in places. However, you can opt for a closed ‘bucket’ if you feel this will make for a less hairy ride. At the top there is a restaurant, café, and playground, as well as a footpath to lead you even higher up the mountain.

Back down in the town, meander along the lakeshore or dine in one of the characterful restaurants, before hopping on a ferry across the lake to visit other lakeside towns ; Intra is directly opposite, and the ferry runs every 30 minutes throughout the day.

The summer months are a time for swimming in the lake. Though if you visit in the Spring and Autumn, you can escape the crowds, there’s cooler weather for hiking, and mountain tops may have a sprinkling of snow, adding to those picture-perfect views. Come winter, Laveno is very quiet. 

Where to Stay: Hotel del Conte

Recommended by Lauren of The Traveling Moore

My favorite area in Northern Italy is hands-down Lake Como. Specifically, the super cute and charming town of Bellagio. It’s easily one of the best cities in northern Italy to visit.

Bellagio is the most popular town on Lake Como and is nicknamed the “Pearl of the Lake.” It’s also the area that the famous Las Vegas resort was designed after.

To get to Lake Como, first take a train from Milan to Varenna, another lakeside town. From Varenna, take the lake ferry to Bellagio. The ferry runs every hour and only takes around 15 minutes.

The best time to visit Bellagio is from May-September. This is when the weather is warm enough for lake activities. In the winter, most of the restaurants and shops in town close.

Some of the best things to do in Bellagio are take a wooden boat tour of the lake, tour famous villas, or simply shop around town.

There are many wooden boat tours that start in Bellagio and visit popular areas of the lake for swimming and villa viewing. These tours are expensive but worth it to explore the lake.

There are also villas you can see directly in Bellagio, such as Villa Carlota. Finally, you can spend up to a full day exploring the charming cobblestone streets, stopping in local boutiques and luxury stores for some amazing shopping. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Du Lac & SPA

Recommended by Helen of Helen on Her Holidays

Sirmione, on Lake Garda in northern Italy, is one of the most romantic and magical towns anywhere in Europe, let alone cities in northern Italy. The town sits on a narrow peninsula that juts out into the southern edge of the lake. The peninsula is actually an island, thanks to Sirmione’s 14th century Scaligero Castle which added a defensive moat right across the entrance to the town. We loved climbing the castle’s towers and walking the ramparts for stunning views across the town and Lake Garda.

The castle is just one of a range of things to do in Sirmione. The picturesque narrow streets of the old town are car-free and packed with interesting corners. You can bathe in hot springs at one of Sirmione’s thermal spas, or take a walk to the end of the peninsula where you can see the ruins of a luxurious Roman villa.

Sirmione is car-free; you can park your car at the beginning of the peninsula, but the best way to get to the town is by boat. You can catch ferry services from Desenzano (which has train connections to Milan and Verona) at the bottom of the lake; the approach by water is particularly beautiful, with the castle above the roofs of the old town. Any time of year is a great time to visit Sirmione, but ferries may be less frequent during the winter months; we visited at the end of September and it was perfect – not too hot but still with the summer ferry service.

Where to Stay: Hotel Eden

Recommended by Imee of Italy In Focus

Bergamo is located in the Lombardy region in the Northern part of Italy. This town is worth a visit, with its scenic beauty and stunning architecture and landmarks , which I found remarkable. Additionally, the delectable local and traditional dishes in Bergamo are delightful.

There are many ways to get to Bergamo; from the Milan- Bergamo airport, we took a bus, and it took us approximately 45 minutes to reach Bergamo. You can also take a car or a van, or you can also try to take a train, there are many options to reach the town depending on how you choose to travel. 

When we visited Bergamo in September last year, I felt it was the perfect season to visit the town. I enjoyed the very pleasant weather and a very relaxing day exploring the surroundings with a few visitors.

Though it was just a short visit, we explored the upper city and visited Piazza Vecchia, where I was amazed by the stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture of the town. Perhaps this is one of the best things to do in Bergamo if you come and visit this lovely town. 

Another fantastic thing to do in Bergamo is to experience and enjoy a funicular ride; the funicular provides amazing panoramic views of the city, and the surrounding landscape is also perfect for sightseeing.

These are just a few of the best things to do and must-see in Bergamo. And I must say, Bergamo is indeed an off-the-beaten-path cities in Northern Italy. It is an excellent destination to visit and create a memorable journey.

Where to Stay: Locanda Mimmo

Region of Trentino Alto Adige, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Laura of Laura the Explorer

Nestled under the peaks of the Dolomites in the Sud-Tirol region, the Val di Funes (also known as Villnoss) is one of the most picturesque locations in all of Northern Italy.

It’s famous for its Sud-Tyrolean alpine culture, panoramic mountain views, and some of the best hiking in the Dolomites.

Located about an hour east of Bolzano, the Val di Funes is accessible by public transport (bus), however, it’s much easier to visit by car. It’s best to arrive early in the peak summer season to nab a parking spot.

The valley is best visited in the warmer months of June through November, where you see the highlights of this breathtaking location such as visiting the iconic Chiesetta di San Giovanni, taking in sunset over Santa Maddalena, and hiking one of my favourite trails in the Dolomites, the Adolf Munkel Trail to Geisleralm.

Be sure to take a break in your hike and try the unique Sud-Tyrolean cuisine at one of the charming mountain huts that dot the countryside. A mug of the local wheat beer and a slice of apple strudel will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to Germany or Austria!

Where to Stay: Viel Nois Guest House

Recommended by Joanna of The World in My Pocket

Trento is one of those hidden gem towns in the North of Italy. Trento is the capital of the Trentino region , and it is worth visiting for its medieval city center with beautiful painted palaces, the frescoes in the Buonconsiglio Castle, the delicious Italian-German fusion food, the local wine, as well as the breathtaking mountain backdrop.

I visited Trento in June, a few years ago, and spent a week here. The weather was beautiful, warm, with plenty of sunny days. I arrived here with a Flixbus from Verona. However, Trento is very well connected by public transport to many major cities in Italy. The nearest big airports are in Venice, Treviso, and Bergamo.

One great thing to do in Trento is take the cable car up to the peak across the river, and have an Aperol spritz with a view of the town and the beautiful mountain scenery behind it.

Another great thing to do in Trento is to take a walking tour to discover all the palaces with their painted facades, as well as some of their interior courtyards.

Trento is located near Valle dei Laghi , where the native Nosiola grape grows. This grape is used to make DOC Trento wines and the traditional Vino Santo, which is considered to be one of the best sweet wines in Italy. You can go wine tasting at many of the vineyards in Valle dei Laghi. 

Where to Stay: Torrione Trento

Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop

Cembra is a gorgeous town located in the Cembra Valley. It is in the Trentino region of Italy. It has breathtaking natural beauty, rich traditions, and flavorful local wines. This is the perfect destination if you are looking for an authentic Italian vacation , and one of the best cities in northern Italy.

Cembra lie­s 20 kilometers northwest of Tre­nto and it is easily accessible. A 12 days Italy itinerary will help you explore Cembra and the rest of Italy. 

Traveling by car allows you to explore at your own speed. However, you can also use public transport, such as buses and trains, to travel from Trento to Cembra.

Cembra is most enjoyable in the spring and summer, from April to September. The weather during these months is mild and perfect for outdoor activities and experiencing the local culture and festivities.

Cembra is known for its wine and wine-making, particularly adored for the Müller-Thurgau and Schiava wines. You can indulge in wine tasting and take tours of the local wineries to savor the unique flavors of the region.

Cembra boasts an exhilarating landscape which includes rolling hills, gorgeous vineyards, and the glorious Lagorai mountain range. You can take leisurely walks to explore this scenery. You can also partake in some adventure such as hiking or mountain biking. 

Cembra has beautiful antique buildings, historical churches, and traditional festivals. Explore the town’s attractions like the Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Cembra Castle. Attend local festivals to get a glimpse of the town’s vibrant culture and local life.

Where to Stay: Agriturismo Maso Besleri

Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Rich of RJ on Tour

Trieste is a beautiful city on the Adriatic coast of Italy, and I really enjoyed visiting. The city is pretty easy to reach by train with direct trains from Ljubljana and Venice. Once in the city it’s all pretty walkable, however they have an excellent bus system.

There are many options for things to do in Trieste. The central areas are beautiful, with a combination of Italian and Austrian architecture, making it quite unique. The grand canal in the city is a beautiful place to explore, which is lined with palaces and churches.

Overlooking the city is a castle, Castello di San Giusto, which is a fantastic viewpoint. The highlight of the castle visit was the Roman artifacts, including mosaics. Other things to see, including a small amphitheater and Trieste Cathedral, a unique place inside.

We enjoyed our summer visit and since it’s located by the coast it was wonderful. Sitting on the pier during a summer sunset was special. There are many restaurants serving both Italian and Austrian cuisine, most of which have outside tables with a view. Overall, Trieste is unique compared to other places I visited while in Italy.

Where to Stay: Elisabeth Boutique Rooms

Region of Veneto, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Me!

A small island in the Venetian Lagoon, Burano is most well known for being the brightly colored island off of Venice. Each home is painted a different bright color, making for a rainbow along the canals. It’s beauty alone makes it one of the best cities in northern Italy to visit.

The city was once known for their lacemaking, and was one of the primary sources of income for the people there. Lace is still made on the island, and you can visit the lace factory to see the women making the lace and to learn more about the history.

However, today the main source of revenue for the island is tourism. And for good reason, the island is stunning and honestly the best place to visit in the entire Venetian Lagoon (in my opinion). It is fun to just wander the canals and enjoy the beauty of the island. Shop in the little stores for lace, and eat some incredible seafood at a restaurant right on the canal. We absolutely loved spending the day in Burano. I mean how can you not fall in love with this place?!

Where to Stay: Tiffany Home

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

Venice is a city that tops many people’s bucket list, and for good reason – Venice is ridiculously charming and is definitely worth visiting . With over 150 canals that crisscross the city, you’ll constantly be crossing bridges and admiring the scenic, narrow waterways. And of course, there’s the Grand Canal, the main, large waterway that winds through the middle of the city, and is full of gondolas and gorgeous buildings featuring Venetian architecture .

Besides wandering the passageways and bridges of the city, there are really quite a lot of things to see and do in Venice. San Marco Square has the San Marco Basilica, the Doge’s Palace (the doge was the ruler of the city when Venice was at the height of power), and the St Mark’s Bell Tower. You should definitely stop by the Teatro La Fenice, one of the most important opera houses in Italy, and of course, take a gondola ride on the canals.

Venice is located on the coast of northeastern Italy, along the Adriatic Sea. You can easily arrive via the international airport, or by train. Driving is not recommended – you would have to park your car on the mainland before taking a water taxi or bus into Venice. Once you’re in Venice, the only transportation options are water taxis or water buses.

Spring and early fall are the best time to visit – crowds are a little bit lower and the weather isn’t too hot. In summer, crowds are very high, and in winter there is a chance of flooding in the city.

Where to Stay: Hotel Olimpia Venice

Cortina D’Ampezzo

Recommended by Taylor of No Trace Travel

Cortina D’Ampezzo, located in the heart of the Dolomites is a haven for outdoor adventurists year round. You can easily reach this alpine town by bus from nearby major cities, like Venice or Milan. Once there, the town is easily walkable, giving you a chance to window shop the luxury boutiques and take in the mountains surrounding the area. While you don’t need a car to get there and around the town center, you certainly will want one to freely explore the mountainous landscape at your own pace.

The best time to visit is during the summer months of June to September, providing comfortable weather to hike nearby trails such as Cinque Torri or the famous Cadini Group. However, if you can brave the cold weather then this town turns into a winter wonderland! Explore Cortina D’Ampezzo in winter to experience the most scenic ski slopes in Europe on the world-class Sella Ronda. 

The town is gearing up for its second round of hosting the Winter Olympics in 2026, so mark your calendars and plan ahead to be there for all the action! 

Where to Stay: HOTEL de LEN

Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

Treviso is a medium-sized city in the region of Veneto, in northern Italy, and a unique place to visit on a day trip from Venice . Located just about 40 km and an easy train ride under 40 minutes, Treviso will give you a completely different feel compared to Venice. Still unknown to mass tourism, Treviso has very much remained true to its local spirit .

Make sure to go for a walk around the historic center of town, where you can spot the walls and ramparts that were built to defend the city when it joined the Republic of Venice at the turn of the 13th century. It’s also fun to spot the many canals.

A favorite thing to do in Treviso is actually eating! There is a large fishing market which means fish and seafood are always on the menu. Stop for an aperitif before heading back to Venice and try fried calamari – best if accompanied by a glass of Prosecco wine, which is produced in this very region.

The best time to visit Treviso is in the spring. Summer can be terribly hot and humid here, whereas it can be regularly cloudy and foggy in the winter.

Where to Stay: B&B Villa Romano

Recommended by Adrienn of Travel Tip Zone

Verona is an excellent Northern Italian destination that offers travelers captivating experiences. This Northern Italian city is known for its rich historical tradition and vibrant cultural life, making it a must for anyone interested in history and culture.

Verona is easily accessible whether you’re traveling by car or public transportation. Regardless of the direction you’re coming from, Verona is well-connected by an excellent network of highways to cities like Milan, Venice, Bologna, and South Tyrol. Moreover, there are train and bus options available from other major Italian cities to reach Verona.

Like most Northern Italian cities, Verona has cold winters and hot summers. For this reason, it is most recommended to visit in the spring and fall when the temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing.

Verona’s most popular attractions include the well-preserved Roman Arena, Juliet’s House with its famous balcony, the bustling Piazza delle Erbe, and the stunning Castelvecchio. For the best views, visit Castel San Pietro or take a walk along the banks of the Adige River.

Verona is famous for its delicious cuisine. Try traditional dishes such as risotto al Amarone and enjoy local wines at cozy trattorias and osterias.

Beyond Verona, you’ll find picturesque landscapes, including the nearby Lake Garda, which offers wonderful views and the opportunity for swimming and water sports.

Overall, Verona, as an attractive city in Northern Italy, is an excellent travel destination. With its rich historical heritage and pleasant surroundings, this charming city has something to offer for everyone.

Where to Stay: Hotel Giulietta e Romeo

Recommended by Milene & Paul of Surf & Unwind

Explore the hidden gem of Vicenza, a charming town nestled perfectly between Verona and Venice. One of the best cities in northern Italy to visit.

Just a short train journey away, Vicenza offers an authentic Italian experience without the bustling crowds and hefty price tags of its popular neighbors.

Vicenza might not have Verona’s medieval allure and Venice’s intricate canal systems, but it boasts architectural beauty.

The town is home to twenty-three UNESCO Heritage buildings such as Teatro Olimpico, Pallazzo Chiericati and Basilica Palladiana, and it’s renowned for the Palladian Villas of the Veneto, designed by the celebrated Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio.

On summer evenings, there’s nothing better than to enjoy a delicious fresco meal at Piazza dei Signori (we recommend the pizza at Angolo Palladio) followed by an Aperol Spritz at Una Spiaggia per Vicenza, an urban beach bar with a vibrant atmosphere.

To end the night with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, head to Monte Berico where you can see Vicenza aglow under the starlit sky.

With its rich history, exquisite architecture, and delightful culinary scene, Vicenza offers a wonderful escape, waiting to be discovered.

Where to Stay: Relais Santa Corona

Region of Emilio Romano, Towns in Northern Italy

Recommended by Francesca of Little Lost Travel

Modena is a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy. It’s famous for being the home of traditional balsamic vinegar and the opera singer Luciano Pavarotti. 

The city is also regarded as the world’s ‘Supercar Capital’ as some of the biggest luxury Italian car brands such as Lamborghini, Ferrari and Maserati are right on its doorstep. 

One of the first things I recommend doing is checking out the UNESCO World Heritage Torre Civica and Piazza Grande. The 12th-century cathedral and bell tower are an incredible example of early Romanesque art and a real feast for the eyes. 

Afterwards, get a (quite literal) taste of history by sampling traditional balsamic vinegar at La Consorteria 1966. Tastings are about €15 per person. You’ll learn about the vinegar’s Protected Design of Origin status and why it takes a minimum of 12 years to mature. 

If you’re a car lover, make sure you also visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum with its collection of iconic Ferrari supercar models and the story behind the man who made them.  

My favorite time of year to visit Modena is September as the peak season crowds start to die down but the weather is still a pleasant 25 degrees Celsius. I would still recommend bringing a jacket as evenings get cool. 

Modena is well connected by public transport links so you don’t need to drive. There’s a bus network to get around the area and a train station which links other major cities. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Castello

Recommended by Martha of May Cause Wanderlust

There are two main (and persuasive) reasons to visit Bologna, a city in northern Italy.

The first is that its location in the heart of the Emilia Romagna region means it’s a foodie’s paradise . All the world-class produce from the region can be found here: Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiana Reggiano and Aceto Balsamico de Moderna. And it has its own traditional pasta dish. Not Spaghetti Bolognese, as many would assume (although you will be able to find a version of this, made with tagliatelle, on restaurant menus); the dish of Bologna is actually tortellini in broth.

Lots of the things to do in Bologna involve food! Top of the list is to take a food tour to learn about the food traditions, to discover the best markets and restaurants and, of course, to taste some delicious delicacies.

The second reason to visit Bologna is its sumptuous architecture. This medieval university city is known for the red-orange palette of its buildings and for its attractive porticoes, which are arched covered walkways.

There are 40 km of porticoes in the center of Bologna and they are an UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s almost a rite of passage to walk the Portico of San Luca, which goes from the city center out to a church in the surrounding hills. It’s hard work, though!

Bologna is well-connected by its airport and train station and there’s no need to hire a car to explore the city itself. It’s also a great stop on your way south for some time in Rome ! Come in the shoulder season to avoid the heat (especially if you plan to walk the uphill San Luca Portico!).

Where to Stay: Savhotel

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