northern italy winter trip

25 Things to Do, Eat and Enjoy This Winter in Northern Italy

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Italy , Lists , Veneto

Winter is a great time to find yourself in Northern Italy.

Free of the dense summer tourist crowds and with a rich calendar of events, the larger northern italian cities as well as the smaller local towns are a delight to explore. on most days the sun shines brightly and the skies are blue..

It’s true, it may get rather chilly and a bit foggy every now and then but it’s nothing that a thick jacket and a nice cup of Italian hot chocolate can’t beat.

A nice snowfall is guaranteed in the Alps and the Dolomites. And while you can’t swim in the sea and the many Northern Italian lakes, numerous spa resorts tempt you with gushing mineral springs feeding large swimming pools and whirlpool tubs.

In terms of major events, you have Christmas, New Year’s, St. Valentine’s, Carnival and International Women’s Day. All of this is intertwined with many large art exhibitions and cultural events.

So, the three months of winter in Northern Italy offer a lot to see and enjoy. Not to mention the many truly scrumptious (and sometimes even healthy) things to eat – from Carnival frittelle with creme patisserie to the tender local leafy green –  broccolo fiolaro  – the season of which starts in January.

As such, here is a nice and tidy list with twenty-five exciting things you can do this winter in Northern Italy. I hope that you find it helpful when you plan your weekend break, your family trip or your solo exploration of this beautiful part of the world.

For ease of reference, all of the suggestions below apply to the astronomical season of winter starting at the end of December and ending in the second half of March each year.

The lists with 25 things to do, eat and enjoy in Northern Italy in  autumn  and  spring are just a click away. Please, have a look at them, too as many of the suggestions in them are applicable to any season. The list for summer will be ready soon, too.

One more thing to get out of the way before we dive in. Geographically, all of the suggestions below refer to the eight Italian regions that together comprise the body of Northern Italy. They are Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige (South Tyrol).

Now, let’s start!

1. tick several christmas markets off your list.

Northern Italy has many great Christmas markets offering lots of fab shopping, vats of mulled wine, and lashings of festive atmosphere. Particularly famous are the Christmas markets in the autonomous region of Trentino-Alto Adige (South Tyrol). Yet, anywhere from Turin to Verona and all around the Northern Italian lakes, you are bound to come across many Christmas markets – some being set up for a day and some lasting almost two months from the middle of November to Epiphany on 6th January.

Click here for more information:

• Christmas Markets – Best 5 Things to Buy This Festive Season
• Christmas Guide 2018 for Northern Italy – The Complete List of Christmas Markets, Events, and Happenings

2. Delight in festive sweets and cakes

From panettone to pandoro , from torrone to panpepato  and from marron glace to tronchetto di Natale , winter comes to Northern Italy bringing at least a dozen seasonal sweets and cakes. Make sure that you have a slice or two of each in order to decide which one you love the most. Try both the supermarket versions (from the simplest to the most luxurious ones) and the ones made in local artisan patisseries. This will help develop your appreciation for the Northern Italian festive sweets and cakes.

• Points 41, 42, 43, 44 and 48 for a detailed explanation of Northern Italy’s festive sweets and cakes: Christmas in Italy – 50 Fun Facts About the Italian Holiday Season

3. Enjoy a white Christmas

Spending a white Christmas is a deeply entrenched Western European dream. You may have never thought that Italy (famous for its sun and beaches) could be the country to help you live your snowy dream. Yet, if you head to the small picturesque villages and the ski resorts of the Northern Italian Alps and the Dolomites, it is perfectly reasonable to expect a Christmas snowfall. The price tag will match. If it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience though, then why not treat yourself?! Look into Trentino-Alto Adige, the Aosta Valley and the Venetian Dolomites.

4. Celebrate Capodanno in the piazza

Capodanno is Italian for New Year’s Eve/New Year’s Day – from capo (head, boss) and d’anno (of the year). New Year’s Eve celebrations in Italy are traditionally held on the central squares of large cities and smaller towns. People get together for loud music and impressive firework displays.

Particularly famous is the Capodanno event in Ferrara  which attracts thousands of people each year. At midnight large fireworks literally seem to set on fire the majestic Castle of Este in the centre of the Rennaissance city.

5. See a New Year’s swim-off

Italians can be a bit pazzi . That means ‘crazy’ in English. In the best possible way, though! They come with some crazy ideas and then make them happen. Like the New Year’s swim-offs that take place in the icy waters of the Venetian Lagoon and Lago di Garda !

If on 1st January you find yourself either on the Venetian island of Lido or in the town of Riva del Garda which is on the shores of Italy’s largest lake, head over to the beach. As this is where the local club of Ibernisti  (or ice-swimmers in English) will take a cold, cold dip to celebrate the start of the New Year.

Be warned! You may need an extra glass of mulled wine to warm up after simply watching them having their fun in the icy waters.

• Check the New Year’s Eve / New Year’s Day category for details about the New Year’s swim-offs – Christmas Guide 2018 for Northern Italy
• Check point 8 for more information about Riva del Garda – Best 12 Towns to Visit Around Lago di Garda – Italy’s Largest Lake

6. Go on a Nativity Scenes trek

Nativity Scenes are a central part of the Christmas celebrations in Italy.  Also known as a manger scene or a crib in English, they are called  presepio  or  presepe  in Italian and are carefully arranged in churches, city squares and private homes all over the country.

The Nativity scenes represent the Holy Family in the stable. They can be small with tiny figurines or human-size. In many places, the whole town of Bethlehem is recreated in minute detail around the stable – from the marketplace with all sorts of stalls and craft workshops to many different animals, houses and even people going on about their daily lives.

Italians really pull out all stops in terms of Nativity Scenes. Between December and January, you can spend a happy afternoon in a large Northern Italian city like Turin, Milan or Venice simply traipsing from church to church to admire the Nativity Scene lovingly set-up in each one of them. Or you can head to a medieval village in the mountains of Northern Italy where dozens and hundreds of Nativity Scenes have been dotted all through the cobbled streets, in the roots of large trees, in the stone walls of the gardens and any other possible place you can imagine.

• Photos from the Nativity Scenes exhibition in the abandoned village of Campo di Brenzone, Lake Garda
• Check the Nativity Scene Displays and Exhibitions category in Christmas Guide 2018 for Northern Italy – The Complete List of Christmas Markets, Events and Happenings

7. Meet Befana and learn more about this unique Italian Christmas gift-bearer

If you happen to be in Northern Italy on Epiphany – 6th January – head to the central square of the town or city you are in. Chances are, there will be a large event for kids at which an old lady riding a broom and having a rather unfortunately large nose will be the guest of honour. This is Befana – a Christmas gift-bearer unique to Italy. She visits the good and not-so-good Italian children on the night of the 5th to the 6th January bringing sweets and presents for the former and a piece of coal for the latter.

• Point 5 in Italy’s Five Christmas Gift Bearers
• The Good Witch Befana

8. Celebrate Leonardo da Vinci’s life and genius

In 2019, Italy marks the 500th anniversary of the death of one of its most renowned sons – Leonardo da Vinci. Events and happenings dedicated to his genius will be taking place all over the country all throughout the year.

In Northern Italy and, most importantly, in Milan, there will be a rich palette of events officially starting on 2nd May 2019. After all, Leonardo spent 17 years in Milan – the most productive period of his life.

Even though the bulk of initiatives will be held come late spring and then summer 2019, this winter you can still get close to Leonardo in Milan. Head over to the city’s National Museum of Science and Technology to see Leonardo da Vinci Parade – an exhibition of real-life models constructed following Leonardo’s designs.

Also, don’t miss the Leonardo3 Museum and trace Leonardo’s footsteps all over Milan with the help of the detailed information and apps prepared by the city’s tourist board.

9. Attend a festival, a fair or an exhibition

There are dozens if not hundreds of festivals, fairs and exhibitions taking place all over Nothern Italy this winter. From the Motor Bike Expo in Verona in January to the International Record and CD Fairs in Genoa and Bergamo in February, from the Fair of Sant’Orso that has been held in the Aosta Valley for more than a thousand years to the Live Wine artisan wine event in Milan in March, Northern Italy is brimming with exciting happenings vying for your attention.

• Events in Italy – 6 Ways to Find the Best Italian Festivals, Fairs and Happenings for an Experience of a Lifetime

10. Treat yourself to a classical concert in a church or an opera performance

Italy is the country of music and Northern Italy is the birthplace of many composers whose names we all know no matter how big or small our knowledge of classical music is. For example, Monteverdi and Vivaldi.

In addition, the acoustics offered by the numerous churches and specially built opera houses are parallel to none. Enjoy a concert during your time in Northern Italy. It could be a lunchtime performance in a church in a medieval walled town or a lavish opera in the worldwide known Teatro alla Scalla in Milan or Teatro La Fenice in Venice.

You will leave with a new appreciation for classical music and a memory to last you a lifetime. By the way, if your budget doesn’t really stretch to purchasing a ticket for the Northern Italian opera houses (they can be very expensive, I know!), look into visiting them during the day when they open their doors to tourists for a very reasonable fee.

• Teatro La Fenice in Venice, Italy – The Opera House with the Phoenix Factor
• Exploring Venice – The Museum of Music
• Video from the museum at  Teatro alla Scala in Milan

11. Indulge in a cup of Italian hot chocolate

The Italians have come up with a genius solution to keep the winter chill at bay. During the cold months of the year, they indulge in cups of hot chocolate. Known as cioccolata calda in Italian, this is a seriously thick and gooey drink which, if you wish, can be crowned with a mound of freshly whipped cream. It’s heaven after a long day of sightseeing around churches and museums.

• Italian Hot Chocolate or 3 Cosy Places to Enjoy a Proper Cioccolata Calda in Vicenza Now

12. Shop in the winter sales

The retail sales are a big thing in Italy. They happen twice a year – once in January and once in July – and can last up to six-eight weeks each time.

As you can imagine, Italy has some of the best shopping in the world. With the home-grown high fashion designers and the myriad of local artisans, there is a never-ending stream of opportunities here to buy some lovely stuff.

Clothes, ceramics, jewellery… Anything your heart desires you will find it in Italy. If you can wait until the sales (called Saldi in Italian), you can get it all at a snip of the original retail price. Especially towards the end of each sales period.

13. Head to the mountains to ski, sled, snowboard and for lots of apres-ski fun

Flanked by the Alps and the Dolomites, a great part of the winter appeal of Northern Italy lies in the opportunities it gives to winter sports aficionados to practice their sport. Opportunities for skiing, sledding and snowboarding abound. From expensive resorts to cheap pistes and sledding hills, there is something for everyone no matter how deep his pocket is or what is his level of snow skill.

14. Skate on an ice rink set up on a historical square

You don’t have to trek all the way to the mountains in order to practice a winter sport in Northern Italy, though. In all its largest cities and smaller towns, temporary ice rinks are set up in December and remain there until the end of January. Or even until the beginning of March as it is the case with the ice rink at Campo San Polo in Venice in 2019.

Skates can be rented on site. There are even supports shaped like cute polar bears and penguins to help the newbies in the sport. Glide away!

The best bit is that these temporary ice rinks are set up on some of the most beautiful Northern Italian historical piazzas. So, you can skate and admire world-class architecture at the same time.

15. Eat at a sagra

A sagra  (pl. sagre ) is a food festival dedicated to a particular foodstuff which is locally cultivated or produced. It could be peas , a particular type of salami or even cherries . All the food served at the festival will be based on the foodstuff to which the  sagra  is dedicated.

If you find yourself in Northern Italy in winter, don’t miss to tick a sagra  off your bucket list. These food festivals are a lot of fun. The food is very reasonably priced and very tasty to eat. Plus, you will be surrounded only by locals.

In the Veneto, a particularly popular winter  sagra  is the one dedicated to the  broccolo fiolaro – a leafy green which is cultivated in the area of Creazzo in the province of Vicenza .

• The Veg That Rocked – for a description of the sagra dedicated to the  broccolo fiolaro
• Point 9 in Italian Food – 13 Ways to Eat Well in Italy Without Breaking the Bank

16. Celebrate the Day of St. Anthony the Abbot

On 17th January Italy celebrates the day of St. Anthony the Abbot. Also known as St. Anthony the Great and the Father of all Monks, he was a Christian monk and hermit from Egypt who lived an ascetic life renouncing all worldly temptations.

St. Anthony the Abbot is often depicted with a pig at his feet. Some believe that this is because he spent several years of his life working as a swineherd. Others think that the pig is a symbol of all the temptations that the devil sent to the saint to test his faith and resolve.

Nowadays, the Saint is venerated as a protector against the devil and as the patron of all farm animals. A legend from the Northern Italian region of the Veneto states that on the night of the 17th January the animals acquire the skill to speak. On this night, the farmers had to stay away from the stables as overhearing the animals talking was believed to be a sign of bad luck.

The Day of St. Anthony the Abbot is celebrated by rural communities all over Italy. In the northern part of the country, the Saint is widely celebrated in the region of Lombardy where bonfires and other events are organised in his name.

Some of the most well-known celebrations take place in Barni (a town in the province of Como), and Lonato del Garda (a town in the province of Brescia). In Barni, people give gifts to the Saint in the form of local agricultural products like salami, vegetables, fruit and cheese. The gifts are sold at an auction held on the 17th January and the proceeds are donated to the parish.

In Lonato del Garda, the Day of the Saint is marked with a fair which has been held there since ancient times. An integral part of it is the Blessing of the Animals which takes place at the square in front of the Church dedicated to St. Anthony the Abbot.

17. Feel the love on St. Valentine’s Day

Italy is one of the world’s most romantic countries. There are no two opinions about that! Spending St. Valentine’s Day here is a no-brainer if you want to impress a special someone.

On one hand, you can choose from a wide palette of experiences like:

• stays at luxury hotels in one of Northern Italy’s large cities ,
• spa days in one of the many resorts where naturally hot mineral waters gush from the earth and feed sprawling swimming pools and whirlpool tubs,
• jewellery shopping in the Italian Meccas of gold- and silver-working like Vicenza in the Veneto and Valenza in Piedmont.

On the other hand, you can head to Verona – the City of Love – and live your own Romeo and Juliet story with, obviously, a happy-end. Every year, in the days leading to the 14th February, Verona stages a city-wide festival under the slogan of Verona in Love. There are lots of romantic events taking place all over the beautiful historical centre of the city. It’s definitely a festival to experience holding the hand of a loved one.

And, thirdly, you can do something even more original on the 14th February here in Northern Italy. Namely, you can head to the small Church of St. George ( Oratorio di San Giorgio ) in the town of Monselice, Veneto. You will find it attached to the splendid Villa Duodo on top of a rolling hill overlooking the medieval walled town below.

Inside the Church of St. George and among relics of the first Christian protomartyrs, you will find what the locals assume to be the remains of St. Valentine himself. Every year, on 14th February, the town stages a large celebration dedicated to the Saint. An important part of it is that each child receives a golden key which is believed to protect him or her from the bad eye and epilepsy.

• Letters to Juliet or What Happened When I Visited the Juliet Club in Verona
• Point 11 in 20 Family-Friendly Walks and Hikes Up to an Hour and a Half from Vicenza – for information how to reach the Church of St. George in Monselice, Veneto

18. Enjoy Carnival

Spending a Carnival season in Northern Italy should be on the bucket list of every traveller who wants both to have fun and to learn more about centuries-old traditions preserved to these days. Obviously, the Carnival in Venice is the one attracting the most column inches with its phantasmagorical costumes and lavish balls which cost a pretty penny to attend. Yet, the Carnival Season lasts between two and three weeks and takes over the whole of Northern Italy.

Happy, loud celebrations take place under clouds of confetti. Huge floats adorned with colourful paper-mache figures parade through the central streets and squares of small towns and large cities. In addition, the Carnival period brings up to the surface centuries-old traditions which are still honoured in small mountain villages. If you find yourself in Northern Italy during Carnival, make sure that you experience its many facets in as many different towns and places you can visit. The links below will give you some inspiration.

• Bagolino Carnival – An Italian Experience You Mustn’t Miss
• Ciao, Carnevale or 9 Authentic Italian Carnival Experiences You Should Have
• Photographing the Carnival in Venice
• E Carnevale (about the Carnival in Verona)

19. Stuff yourself with traditional Carnival fritters

One of the big pleasures of Carnival season in Italy is the ability to stuff yourself with traditional Carnival fritters. Called f rittelle, crostoli  and  bugie, they  are sold strictly for the duration of the festivities:

• Crostoli  are thin crisps of fried dough generously sprinkled with icing sugar.
• Bugie  are small pieces of crisp fried dough which are stuffed with chocolate, jam or creme patisserie.
• Frittelle,  are balls of fried dough studded with raisins and served either as they are or stuffed with creme chantilly, chocolate,  zabaione  or creme patisserie. They can be as small as a cherry or as big as a tennis ball and cost anything from 15 to 30 euros per kilo depending on where you buy them from – the local supermarket or a refined patisserie where everything is baked on the premises following recipes passed down from generation to generation.
• Fritella – The Taste of the Venetian Carnival

20. Celebrate the Venetian New Year

Did you know that for hundreds of years the Republic of Venice celebrated the beginning of the New Year not in January but in March? This was in direct reference to the traditions of the Veneti – an Indo-European tribe which used to populate the lands of the Northern Italian region of the  Veneto  as far back as the 8th century BC. The Veneti used the ancient Indo-European calendar according to which the year had only ten months and started in March with the re-birth of the earth after the long winter.

Curiously enough, in  Venice  and Veneto, the tradition to celebrate the New Year in March survived through the centuries and against two major calendar reforms (the Julian and the Gregorian). Initially, the Venetians celebrated the arrival of the New Year on 25th March – to commemorate the day on which Venice was founded in 421. Later on and in order to simplify their calculations, the Venetians moved their New Year celebrations to the 1st March. This continued until the fall of the Republic of Venice in 1797.

Nowadays, attempts are made by grass-roots organisations in and around Venice to revive the old tradition of celebrating the beginning of the New Year in March with a large get-together around a huge bonfire signifying the end of the old and the beginning of the new. The ritual is called Batimarso .

Celebrating Batimarso – The Thousands of Years Old Ritual of the Venetian New Year

21. Throw oranges at each other

Head to Ivrea in the Northern Italian region of Piedmont at the beginning of March for the most surreal experience of your life. This is where and when a worldwide known festival takes place. Based on an ancient tradition, for the four days of the Ivrea festival, people throw oranges at each other. Yes, oranges. Like, in the fruit. Whole oranges at that, with the peel et al. Definitely not for the faint-hearted. Click here to see what I mean.

22. Visit hundreds of state museums, archaeological parks and art galleries for free

From January to March, every first Sunday of the month gives you free entry to over 480 state museums, archaeological parks and art galleries all over Italy. In addition, entry to them will also be free for a whole week in March 2019 (from the 5th, Tuesday, to the 10th, Sunday).

This means that for a day in January and February and a whole week in March, you won’t have to pay to visit such fab collections of art, archaeology, and culture in Northern Italy as:

• The Ducal Palace in Mantua;
• The Civic Museums of the Sforza Castle in Milan; and
• Villa Pisani in Stra.

Click  here  to check the full list with participating museums and cultural establishments.

23. Celebrate the Festa della Donna

International Women’s Day on 8th March is widely celebrated in Italy. On this day, Italian ladies receive mimosa sprays covered in tender yellow blooms. You will see mimosas everywhere in Italy in the days leading to the 8th March. Even cakes in the local patisseries are adorned with them.

At the same time, Italian women are increasingly fighting for their rights and against several deeply entrenched forms of gender discrimination. This article gives you a good idea as to what it means to be a woman in Italy nowadays.

24. Eat zeppole  on Father’s Day

Father’s Day is celebrated on 19th March in Italy. It coincides with the Feast Day of St. Joseph ( San Giuseppe in Italian) who was, obviously, the husband of the Virgin Mary and a father figure to Jesus.

Traditionally, on this day, people treat themselves and their father to  zeppole . This is an Italian pastry with a deep-fried or baked choux pastry base which is then filled with pastry cream (or custard, jam, or a mix of butter and honey) and crowned with a sugared cherry or a small dollop of chocolate spread. It’s rather yummy! You will find  zeppole  being sold in every self-respecting patisserie and bakery in Italy on Father’s Day.

If you find yourself in the region of Emilia-Romagna around the Feast Day of St. Joseph, head over to Trebbo di Reno in the province of Bologna . This is where the Feast of the Raviola takes place on the third Sunday of March. Raviola being a type of pastry filled with mostarda bolognese  (a type of marmalade with a mustard kick).

25. Explore a brand new museum or two

A brand new museum opened its doors in Ravenna in December 2018. Its name is Classis Ravenna Museum of the City and the Territory . The museum explores the history of the Fleet of Ravenna ( Classis Ravennas ) which was the second most senior fleet of the Imperial Roman Navy.

Another new museum opens its doors in Northern Italy in December this year. It’s called Lumen and it is dedicated to the art of mountain photography. Lumen is quite an extraordinary museum as it is located at a height of 2275 m on top of Mount Kronplatz-Plan de Corones in the heart of the South Tyrolean mountains and the Dolomites.

In Conclusion

Winter is a great time to find yourself in Northern Italy! From centuries-old Christmas traditions to sparkling New Year’s celebrations, from snowy mountains to cities full with events to enjoy, from seasonal sweets and pastries to indulge in to lively Carnival events, there is a wide palette of experiences for everyone to choose from in accordance with his or her tastes and expectations.

Enjoy Northern Italy in winter! ‘Tis the season to be happy!

Let me know which of the above suggestions you would like to experience yourself this winter in Northern Italy. Also, have I missed something? An event, a festival, an idea for a great winter happening in one of the eight Northern Italian regions? Let me know in the Comments below!

More Helpful Links

• 25 Things to Do, Eat and Enjoy This Spring in Northern Italy
• Top 15 Places to Visit in the Veneto, Italy – The Ultimate Guide
• 18 of the Best Cities to Visit in Northern Italy (With Travel Tips and Nearest Airports)
• Day Trips from Padua, Italy – Over 35 Unmissable Destinations in the Veneto, Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna
• Day Trips from Verona – 16 Destinations to Fall in Love With (With Travel Times and Train Tips)
• Day Trips from Vicenza, Italy – Over 90 of the Best Destinations
• 11 of the Best Day Trips from Venice (With Lots of Photos, Travel Times and Italy Train Tips)
• 10 of the Best Views in Italy (Totally According to Me)

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Mirco Piazzi

Sunday 31st of December 2023

Thank you very much for the article, some very good information! One question, what is the location of the first image of the article? Looks like a restaurant deck overlooking some sort of a castle with a bridge? I would appreciate if you could share the info:)

Thank you for your kind words! This is in Borghetto sul Mincio - a small medieval hamlet famous for the local delicacy, tortellini nodo d'amore. The fortified bridge was built in the 14th century and is still in use. You can read more about this beautiful place in my blog post here. Best wishes,

Bernice marzullo

Wednesday 16th of January 2019

Thank you so very much for sharing these stories about italy it is very interesting to me I never knew some of these things I need to get a book on italy

Thank you for your kind words! I am glad to be of help. Best wishes, Rossi :)

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All Destinations , Europe

15 incredible places to visit in italy in winter.

Winter in Italy might not bring sun-soaked beaches and fun boat trips, but there’s still plenty to enjoy in this cultural European country.

With beautiful scenery, ample history, plenty of culture and – of course – worldly renowned food, here’s a guide to spending the winter in Italy!

Things to do in winter in Italy

Granted, you probably won’t be sunbathing on a beach if you’re in Italy in cold weather! However, some of the southern destinations can still be warm during this time, so don’t think that you’ll be bundled up with coats, hats and scarves everywhere you go. Likewise, in the north, there are plenty of cold-weather activities to enjoy. 

Winter Sports

The winter season in northern Italy – and many other European winter destinations – is perhaps most synonymous with skiing. Ski season runs from mid-November until late March, and there are popular slopes all over the country.

Whether you fancy trying cross country skiing, snowshoeing or downhill skiing, the Italian Alps have plenty of options. I’ve personally been to Sestriere which is like a winter wonderland in the colder months! 

Exploring touristy places

It’s quite well known that it’s just not really worth visiting Venice at peak season. The city is constantly rammed full of tourists, and it can negatively impact local life and even the economy.

However, if you visit in winter, you’ll find much fewer tourists and you’ll be able to appreciate local businesses more. What’s more, prices for accommodation and many other things will be much lower!

You could even maximise seeing the touristy sites without the crowds by checking out the Around walking tours in Venice (or elsewhere in the city!).

Around offers self-guided walking tours by professional guides; you get the full tour, with all the information, with none of the restrictions of normal walking tours!

In the winter, the weather isn’t guaranteed to be as good, but it may well be worth it for how quiet it can be.

This is the same for tourist destinations throughout Northern Italy and the rest of the country, like the Amalfi Coast !

Eating tonnes of Italian food

It’s no secret that one of the best reasons to visit Italy is the food. You can find pizza and pasta all over the world, but the real authentic Italian dishes are often entirely different from what popular culture eats – and the best place for authentic food is, of course, Italy itself!

Italian food is just as delicious in the winter as in the summer, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste some seasonal dishes.

Here’s some of the vegan options in Venice!

Enjoy a traditional Christmas

Italy comes alive in the festive season. The Vatican City – which is a country completely surrounded by Italy – is the home of Catholicism, so nowhere is quite as traditional!

Italy celebrates Christmas for a month from the 8th December to the 6th January each year, and most major cities and small towns are awash with decorations and festive cheer.

Make sure you try a Vin Brûlé, which literally means ‘burnt wine’ (in French, but it is a traditional Italian drink!). 

Sun seeking

Yes, parts of Italy can be sunny in the winter! If you head to the far south, particularly anywhere further south than Naples, you’ll be able to enjoy much sunnier, warmer weather than many other European destinations.

While it may still be a bit too chilly to go sea swimming or spend all day sunbathing, you’ll be surprised at how pleasant the weather can be! 

You could even go on a road trip around Southern Italy – click here for more information!

Places to visit in winter in Italy

Cagliari, sardinia.

A lovely place to spend spring and summer months, Cagliari – the capital of Sardinia – is also one of the most charming places to visit in Italy in winter.

Cagliari enjoys mostly pleasant sunny days with an average daytime temperature of 15°C (though it does get occasional rain and wind, and cold fronts may bring temperature downs) throughout the winter months. 

But don’t think the city is quiet then! While most tourists will be gone, locals certainly enjoy the city, which has a thriving nightlife with a great restaurant scene and many bars. 

There are many interesting places to visit in Cagliari. The starting point of your visit should be the historic hilltop quarter of Castello, where you will find the fantastic museum of archaeology, Santa Maria Cathedral with the adjoint bell tower, the Vice Palazzo Regio, and the two watchtowers. That’s also where the Santa Croce terrace is located – it’s a prime spot to admire the sunset. 

Other historic districts you should explore are:

• Stampace, where you’ll find the Roman Amphitheater and other Roman ruins
• the Botanic Gardens
• colourful Villanova
• La Marina, home to many small bars and restaurants

Make sure to head to  Poetto Beach , Cagliari’s main urban beach. It’s a lovely place for a walk, with a nice biking/ running/ skating lane. From there, you can access Molentargius Nature Reserve, where you can admire various bird species, including pink flamingos. 

For bird’s eye views of the city and of Poetto beach, hike up Sella del Diavolo promontory – you can reach it from Calamosca Beach, Cagliari’s second beach. Not far from there, another trail will take you to Fortino di Sant’Ignazio, a 17th century fortress from where you can enjoy views across the Gulf of Cagliari.

By Claudia Tavani from Strictly Sardinia

As one of the world’s most important historical sites, the excavated  ancient city of Pompeii  has millions of visits from tourists each year.

Most of these tourists visit during the European summer when the sun at the archaeological site can be intense. They also visit during the late morning and middle of the day, as many tour companies run day trips from the Amalfi Coast and Rome, as well as cruise ship shore excursions.

The crowds mean long queues to see frescoes in villas, for example, and for admission to individual sites and for food and drinks.

In winter, however, you can have many of the ruins of Pompeii to yourself! In addition, the public transport (trains and buses) to Pompeii is relatively quiet. At other times of the year, you need to get on at the very first station to get a seat on the Circumvesuviana line trains.

The archaeological site closes earlier in winter because the days are shorter (and Pompeii is closed December 25 and January 1). If you are doing a day trip from Rome, it’s worth noting that the beginning and end of your trip will be in darkness.

The weather is variable in winter, so choosing a day when the forecast is for sun and mild winds means that you will have wonderful weather for wandering through the ancient city without the crowds!

By Monique from Trip Anthropologist

Italy is a country known for its food, culture and of course, wine. It’s also a place where you can find some of the best beaches in the world.

Puglia, located in the south of Italy, is one of the most visited regions during the summer months, but it’s actually beautiful in the wintertime as well. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, great food and, of course, its historical sites. In winter, the beaches are empty, and the sea is still warm enough to swim in.

Puglia has many beautiful towns to explore , like Bari with its wonderful Borghi or ‘narrow’ streets, Alberobello with its unique Trulli homes and Lecce a Baroque masterpiece, Gallipoli with its beautiful beaches, and the city of Taranto, which is filled with history.

Puglia is one of the best places to go during winter. It’s warm but not too hot, and there are lots of things to do!

If you’re looking for something delicious to eat while you’re holidaying here, make sure to try some local delicacies like delicious wines from Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro grapes, lots of fresh seafood from the Adriatic sea, cheeses from Castel Del Monte and some other mouthwatering specialities.

By Ania from The Travelling Twins

Skiing or snowboarding in the Alps is on top of any list of ways to spend a winter holiday in Italy. Not a fan of winter sports? Don’t worry, Northern Italy still has you covered. Just head to  the Dolomites !

Book a place in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the main town in the region, and be ready to indulge. If you’re into sports, you can spend your days up and down the many ski resorts. Faloria, Pocol and Tofana are the closest to town, but there are 80 pistes with more than 75 miles of slopes (the Dolomiti Superski pass will give you access to all).

If you’re just interested in sightseeing, a stroll around town will give you gorgeous views of the mountains around – but if you want to get up close with the peaks, you can take the cable cars and gondolas, and grab a cup of coffee or mulled wine in the refugios while you watch the skiiers pass by.

If you want to get seriously pampered, go to one of the spas the town features and experience winter from a warm and comfortable environment. Or go to one of the many fantastic restaurants and do as the Italians do – enjoy one of the best cuisines and wine scenes in the world.

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

If you’re visiting Italy in winter, don’t overlook the northern gastronomic city of Bologna. Although winter can get quite chilly, there is very little snow, so getting around is as easy as summer. 

Even in winter, there are still many wonderful  things to see and do in Bologna , and it’s easy to enjoy the weather outside. This is because most of the historic city centre is covered by Bologna’s famous porticoes, which were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. On a winter’s night they are softly lit, quiet, and  oh so romantic .

Climb the Asinelli Tower on the weekend for the best panoramic view of the city, or visit the University of Bologna — the oldest University in the Western world — with its 15th-century Archiginnasio amphitheatre.

Bologna is a working city that rarely feels overcrowded, but it is renowned the world over for its food. It’s easy to spend your days exploring the indoor food markets and trying the neighbourhood eateries, and a bowl of tortellini en brodo or plate of tagliatelle bolognese hits the spot on a chilly day.

You can even take a guided food tour or find a cafe near the Piazza Maggiore and hang out with locals over an espresso and pastry.

Bologna makes a unique and relaxing winter destination.

By Lori from Travlinmad

Syracuse  on Sicily’s east coast is a great destination for a wonderful Italian city break in the winter sunshine.

Located under an hour by car from Catania international airport, Syracuse is a small city but offers plenty of interesting attractions.

Its location in Sicily means that Syracuse is much warmer than many other European city destinations so while great weather isn’t guaranteed, it should be milder than much of Europe in wintertime.

The old town of Syracuse – Ortigia – is located on a small island. On a clear day, the surrounding sea is a wonderful sparkling blue and the white limestone Baroque buildings in the city are aglow.

Many of the streets are pedestrianised – perfect for exploring by foot. There’s a particularly lovely central square – Piazza del Duomo – which is perfect for a stroll or a coffee.

Surrounding much of the island is an attractive promenade – ideal for a winter stroll in the sunshine. At the tip of the island is Castello Maniace, looking out to sea. It’s an atmospheric spot where the waves of the Mediterranean lap against the 13th century stone walls.

Just outside the city centre is the impressive Archaeological Park where you’ll find the remains of both Ancient Greek and Roman amphitheatres along with an artificial cave shaped like an ear which has powerful acoustics – apparently, it was carved out by slaves whose captor enjoyed listening to their wails.

By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Cinque Terre

Located along the coast of Italy lie these five colourful villages that are a major tourist attraction in Italy. Cinque Terre, or 5T as it is popularly called, boasts of lush vineyards, colourful houses perched on cliffs overlooking the sparkling sea, mouthwatering gelatos and some adventurous trekking paths.

Usually these five villages are packed with tourists during the summer months, however, if you prefer a quiet time with less crowded streets then visiting the 5T in winter is the best.

While you can’t swim in the sea in the winter months, you can always opt for  trekking in the Cinque Terre  National Park (may be closed due to rains), exploring the 5 villages on foot, striking a conversation with the locals and learning about the history of the villages, visiting the churches in Corniglia or enjoying a cozy dinner at one of the restaurants. My personal favourite was Nessun Dorma at Manarola, delicious food with a breath-taking view of the sea.

Also, the hotel prices would be lower than the summer months, which is an added bonus! Be prepared to pack some winter gear and some waterproof jackets to save you from the rain.

Pro Tip: Restaurants and stores mostly shut down on Sundays, so make sure to store essentials in advance.

By Jess from Tourist to Travellers

One of the best places to visit in Italy in winter is the iconic city of Venice. Venice is often packed with tourists in the warmer months, but the narrow alleyways are empty in the cooler months. The elegantly decorated city is yours to explore.

At the center of the city is St. Mark’s Square, a great place to start exploring the city. You’ll find the Campanile di San Marco and Basilica di San Marco in the heart of the plaza.

Throughout the plaza (and in Venice as a whole) you’ll find small shops selling Italian coffee and hot chocolate to warm you. Get it in a to-go cup so you can enjoy a gondola ride throughout the city.

An added benefit of visiting in winter is that the prices of tourist attractions significantly decrease. For example, you can enjoy waterfront views of the city as you float by Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.

Once you’ve explored the city, grab a glass of locally sourced wine and enjoy some Cicchetti as you enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Venice.

Whether you visit in December for the holiday season, or celebrate Love at  Venice’s New Year celebration , or party in February at Carnival – Venice in the winter won’t disappoint! 

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Naples is the third-largest city in Italy, and one great thing about visiting during the winter is that you are guaranteed to find lower prices and much fewer tourists than the rest of the year.

Due to its southern location, it also has warmer weather than a lot of other Italian cities in winter!

It is no secret that  Italy is known for Pizza  and Naples is the ultimate place to try an authentic Italian pizza – it’s where it originates from!

If you are visiting closer to the magical season of Christmas, Naples has a famous nativity street known as ‘Christmas Alley’. Here, you’ll find intricate nativity displays and Christmas decorations. There are more decorations and nativity displays dotted around the squares and churches.

By Dan from Urban Abroad

If snuggling up with a glass of bicerin, and traversing the Christmas markets against the backdrop of an Italian Royal Palace sounds like your kind of thing, then you will love  Turin  in the wintertime.

This beautiful city in Northern Italy is only an hour on the high-speed train from Milan, yet almost entirely free of English-speaking tourists. On a trip here, you can visit countless museums like the impressive Cinema Museum with a trip to the top of the Mole for a view over the whole city that takes in the Alps.

Or you could visit the Egyptian Museum which holds the largest collection of artifacts outside of Cairo.

There are also countless castles, palaces from the Savoy dynasty, market shopping (including the biggest open-air market in all of Europe at Porta Palazzo) and lots of good food and wine. It is the region of Barolo after all!

Wander down the oldest part of the city, the Quadrilatero, and make a beeline for Caffe Al Bicerin. Here you can enjoy the Torinese speciality drink of warm chocolate coffee topped with whipped cream.

The bar itself is beautiful, dating back to 1763, and if you’re very lucky, you might even get a dusting of beautiful snow outside as you relax in the warmth of the candlelight at Al Bicerin.

By Liv from Live Guine

The island of  Burano  resembles a box of Crayola crayons. Fishermen’s homes are painted yellow, green, rust, and blue. Some boast contrasting white windowsills and doorjambs. Behind the homes hang laundry. This Venetian island is the perfect winter city break.

Visit for a weekend getaway or simply for one day. It is a quick 40-minute trip from Venice via the vaporetti (water taxi). After disembarking, head straight to the town center and walk down the long street next to the canal.

Pose at the leaning bell tower next to the Chiesa di San Martino – Murano’s version of the Tower of Pisa. Next, stop at the lace shop to watch a lacemaking demonstration.

At the height of its fame, Burano ran a lacemaking school in the late 1800s. If there is room in your suitcase, you could buy a Murano lace item at one of the many shops.

In the afternoon, visit the Murano glass factory for a demonstration. I especially enjoyed watching the artisan create the island’s world-famous glass vases.

For lunch, book your reservation in advance at the Trattoria al Gatto Nero (Black Cat restaurant. Finally, I suggest you try to find the Mayor of Burano (a black cat). He might be hiding in an alley or under a bush. 

By Terri from Female Solo Trek

One of the cosiest spots to enjoy winter in Northern Italy is its fashion capital, Milan, known as ‘Milano’ in the local language.

Best visited during a long weekend to see all of the attractions on offer, Milan makes for the perfect city break and is especially worth visiting during the winter because there are fewer and smaller lines to see all of the city’s top attractions, monuments, and museums.

Some of the best things to do in Milan include: 

• enjoying Italy’s coffee scene in one of the city’s many cosy cafés
• going luxury shopping (or just window shopping) in the ornate covered shopping arcade of Shop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
• heading out of the city for a short excursion to go skiing in the nearby mountains!

Personally, one of my absolute favourite things to do when I visited Milan in late January was to head onto the Duomo di Milano rooftop terrace, which is easily one of the best-kept secrets of the city. Other  hidden gems of Milan  worth visiting include heading to the nearby charming medieval city of Bergamo and the trendy Navigli district.

Better-known places that are also well worth discovering include the interior of Milan’s cathedral and Bar Luce, designed by film director Wes Anderson.

By Sophie from Solo Sophie

Rome is a magical place to visit and you can skip the crowds if you plan your trip for winter. Go back in time and see some of the most famous Roman buildings, eat at some of the best restaurants in Italy, enjoy the comfortable temperatures and avoid having to wait in line for hours.

Located in the Southern part of Italy, Rome is extremely hot during summer. Just imagine strolling through the ancient ruins of the  Colosseum  or the Roman Forum without a trace of shade!

Visiting Rome during winter will offer you the chance to be more connected to the local life while saving on accommodation and other activities. Temperatures rarely drop below 5 degrees during winter, and snow is very rare.

Another great reason for planning your trip to Rome during winter are all the unique events you can be part of and try, such as:

• the Christmas Market and Rome decorated with bright lights
• seasonal concerts
• winter delicacies
• and much more!

By Ingrid   from Ingrid Zen Moments

Lake Como is often overlooked as an Italian winter destination, however, this magical lake is even more romantic during the colder months!

Being the 3rd largest lake in Italy, Lake Como never freezes, so even though you may not get to enjoy the balmy summer temperatures, you can still bask in the peaceful atmosphere of the low season. 

While winter probably isn’t the best time to visit Italy if you are hoping to spot celebrities like George Clooney , the backdrop of snow sprinkled mountains against colourful quaint towns make up for it!

One of the biggest advantages of visiting the incredible lake during the winter months is that the crowds have dispersed and the  top Lake Como hotels  often have significantly discounted rates. 

Being under an hour’s drive from Milan, Lake Como is the perfect city escape for those needing a breath of fresh air.

Don’t think that because it’s winter, the only thing to do is relax with a glass of wine; the mountains surrounding Lake Como offer visitors the chance to ski and snowboard in one of the most picturesque settings in the area!  

By Yulia from Miss Tourist

There are so many amazing places to enjoy in Italy in winter – whether you are after sun or snow, you’ll love a trip to this country in December, January or February!

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Italy in Winter: Everything You Need to Know for the Perfect Italy Winter Trip

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2024

Are you planning a winter trip to Italy, but aren’t sure what to expect? Then this is the guide for you! In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about visiting Italy in winter.

Being Italian, I have spent my fair amount of winters in Italy, and can confidently say it’s a great off-the-beaten track decision.

When visiting Italy in winter you won’t get the picture perfect idyllic Italian summer experience, but you can get something better!

While not exactly being a winter sun destination, Italy has a milder winter compared to many other European countries.

And from a tourist point of view, it also means less crowds. You can see all the main attractions in Italy, with less people around and for a cheaper price.

Piazza del Duomo in Milan at Christmas, with Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Milan Cathedral behind it

Italy also offers a huge variety of destinations, which can suit different type of winter trips. Some travellers might want to hit the slopes of the Italian Alps, whilst others might want to enjoy the winter sun in Sicily.

Regardless of how you picture your Italian winter trip, you’ll need the information listed in this guide to help you make the most of it! In this guide I have included all the most important information to visit Italy in winter.

Including what weather to expect in different parts of the country, what to pack for winter in Italy, the best destinations to visit in Italy in winter, what holidays to plan for and much more.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and plan the perfect Italy winter trip!

• 1.1 Weather in Italy in December 
• 1.2 January weather in Italy
• 1.3 Weather in Italy in February
• 2 Holidays to expect in italy in winter
• 3 What to pack for Italy in winter
• 4.1 Rome & Milano
• 4.2 Trentino & the Alps
• 4.4 Puglia, Amalfi Coast & Matera
• 4.5 Tuscany
• 4.6 Sicily 
• 5 Is winter a good time to visit italy?

The beautiful facade of the Trevi fountain in Rome

Weather in Italy in winter

First things first, what kind of weather can you expect to find in Italy in winter? Despite summer in Italy being known for its hot climate, Italy can get very chilly throughout winter.  

It might be easy to imagine this blissful Mediterranean peninsula and its islands being a land of perpetual sun and turquoise seas, but that’s not the case in winter. It also depends on where in Italy you plan on going.

When you visit the north of Italy in winter you can expect to find rain, wind, cold temperatures and sometimes even snow.

The south of the country is a bit more clement, but is still far from the European winter sun destinations you might hit for a tanning beach holiday.

Enjoying the views from Ghiacciaio Presena with my friends Laura and Ramis, on our first Italy ski trip together

Weather in Italy in December 

There’s a huge difference between the south and north, for example between  Rome and  Cinque Terre , but generally speaking December throughout Italy is usually cold.

Depending on where you are, you can expect snow, and there are often rainy days. There’s not much in the way of long, sunny days, so you’ll want to come prepared to wrap up warm against the elements.

December is a great time of year if you want to see what Italy looks like during the holiday season around Christmas.

The huge Christmas tree of Piazza del Duomo with Milan Cathedral behind it

January weather in Italy

On average, January is the coldest month of the year in Italy. That means you can expect low temperatures across the board, with many rainy days and – in some places – snow.

There won’t be many crowds, so if you’re not a fan of sharing sights with lots of tourists, it’s a good time of year to come. But it’s definitely not the nicest weather-wise!

Weather in Italy in February

Things start to warm up (a little bit) in February. It’s a changeable month, with sunnier, milder days towards the end of the month, but temperatures can still be very low throughout February.

And snow can still fall – especially in mountainous regions (it’s a popular time for skiing trips). In short, you’ll still need your winter clothes when visiting Italy in February.

Sunset over the perched colourful houses of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, Italy

Holidays to expect in italy in winter

Despite being a cold time of year, there are many festivals throughout the late autumn and winter periods that make Italy an interesting place to visit in this chillier time of year.  

In early November, for example, there’s Giorno dei Santi – otherwise known as All Saints Day. The day before, known as Dei Morti, falls on 31st October and basically matches up with Halloween celebrations abroad.

Don’t expect many full-on American-style Halloween festivities, but do expect plenty of seasonal food and other religious observances.

Next up is, obviously, Christmas. It’s a magical time of year anywhere in the world, and even more so if you’re heading to Italy for Christmas .

Wherever you are in Italy, you can expect to find Christmas trees, lights and decorations everywhere, but especially so in the big cities like Milan and Rome .

The Christmas tree and lights in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Milan

Christmas in Italy runs pretty much all the way to Epifania on 6th January (also a national holiday).

Epifania is a good witch that brings candy to good children and coal to bad children, and marks the end of the Christmas festive period in Italy.

Carnival is a big deal, too. This occurs usually at the end of February, maybe the beginning of March, depending on when Easter falls that year.

Expect great food and amazing costumes, especially if you plan to visit the Carnival of Venice . These are the holiday you’ll need to plan your trip around when visiting Italy in winter.

If you visit Italy on these holidays you’ll probably need to book accommodation in advance (some may be more expensive), and be aware that on public holidays some services and amenities may be closed.

Wandering along the canals of Navigli in Milano, Italy, by night

What to pack for Italy in winter

Packing is essential for making sure you have a good time in Italy in winter. Bringing along the wrong wardrobe will just not cut it! 

It’s a good idea to bring plenty of layers. That way you can stay warm when you’re outside, but strip off a layer or two when you head indoors where there’s heating.

And with rainy weather expected throughout the country, bringing along a raincoat and an umbrella is a good idea. 

A good pair of shoes , ideally with some level of waterproofing, will help for when you’re strolling around sightseeing or shopping. And even though it’s not summer, keeping hydrated is still important!

For that reason, bring along a refillable water bottle and refill at places like the nasoni (public drinking fountains) in Rome . Not only does this save money, but it saves on plastic too.

For more useful packing tips, make sure to check out my Italy packing list and my travel essentials !

Enjoying the view from the peak of Monte San Primo in Lake Como, Italy

Best places to visit in italy in winter

After having gone over some key information about visiting Italy in winter, it’s time to dive into what the best destinations to visit in Italy are, with some average temperatures you can expect to find in each place.

Rome & Milano

Average high: 13°C (55.4°F)

Average low: 3°C (37.4°F)

Rainy days average: 7

Italy’s two largest cities are great places to visit during the winter season.

The beautiful Trevi fountain in Rome

I always suggest visiting Rome and Milan in winter , since you can still do all the same activities you would in summer, but with less people around and for a cheaper price tag.

Rome is packed full with incredible museums and historic sights, and with fewer tourists this time of year, you’ll have the city to yourself to explore on cold winter days.

And if you come around the Christmas period, you’ll be treated to a great atmosphere. Plus, it’s less expensive than visiting Rome in summer or spring .

Especially if you want to stay in one of those cool hotels near the Colosseum or Pantheon , or those luxurious Rome AirBnbs , it will be much cheaper to do so! Rome by night tours will also be less busy.

READ MORE: DISCOVER HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY OR THREE DAYS IN ROME !

The Colosseum in Rome at sunset

Sunset over the rooftops of Rome

Average high: 7°C (44.6°F)

Average low: 2°C (35.6°F)

Rainy days average: 5

The same goes for Milan . Although not chock full of the same ancient sites as Rome , Milan still packs a punch and is an enchanting city in the winter months.

As well as chic shopping opportunities and stylish hotels , Milan oozes culture – attending the opera here, one of the oldest in the world, is an amazing wintry event.

There’s also ice skating and Christmas markets to enjoy in Milan , too.

From Milan you can also go on a day trip to Lake Como . This famous Italian lake is very popular in summer, but in winter you’ll be able to enjoy your Lake Como itinerary and boat tours without the crowds!

Piazza del Duomo in Milan, Italy

Sunset over Milan from the rooftop of the Duomo, Italy

Trentino & the Alps

Average high: 8°C (46.4°F)

Average low: 4°C (39.2°F)

Rainy days average: 2

For those who like winter sports and getting cosy at the apres-ski, then Trentino (or the Alps in general) is where you should be heading.

The city of Trento, capital of the region Trentino , is also packed full of history and culture, with art museums and plenty of restaurants to indulge in.

Hitting the slopes here means swinging by renowned ski resorts such as Madonna di Campiglio – and you don’t have to be an expert to make the most of the powder.

There will be plenty of chances for you to embark on a ski or snowboard lesson at many of the Italian Alps’ ski resorts .

This region is all about enjoying the mountain air, getting into the great outdoors, but also getting warm and snuggly over a long meal after you’ve been skiing – or heading to a spa to soak in a hot tub.

Skiing at the top of Ghiacciaio Presena close to Passo del Tonale

Skiing in Courmayer

Average low: 1°C (33.8°F)

Venice in winter may not be the place of sunny piazzas and glistening canals that you’d get in summer, but Venice in winter is a beautiful place to spend your time.

For one thing, during winter you won’t get the extreme summer heat, which is a big plus – and the crowds that go with it also won’t be there. Being less touristy really helps, as visiting major sights will mean almost no queues.

Our gondola ride took us close to Rialto Bridge

Sunset in Venice, Italy, a popular Mediterranean cruise destination

However if you are interested in visiting with the crowds, then you should plan your trip to Venice to coincide with Carnival. Here it’s all about elaborate masks, dressing up and hitting the streets to admire the spectacle.

Another spectacle is the acqua alta or high tide. This usually occurs in late November and sees Venice’s piazzas and streets flooded by seawater.

Though inconvenient, it does look cool. Places that do get flooded have raised pedestrian walkways so you can still access the city.  

Even if it is a bit chilly during winter in Venice, it’s nothing a few good warm layers of clothing won’t cure.

You’ll love walking around Piazza San Marco and other iconic sights – they look as breath-taking as ever bathed in crisp winter sun.

Exploring the side streets, canals and bridges of Venice, Italy

Puglia, Amalfi Coast & Matera

Rainy days average: 4

If you’re looking for winter sun, then any one of these coastal destinations will do the job for you. Puglia in winter is fairly mild, though it’s not exactly beach weather, and is great for a winter getaway.

The quaint streets in this region’s towns make for a great place to explore – particularly over Christmas, when they’re fabulously decked out with decorations; local markets and live music make Puglia even more special at this time of year, too.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 7 DAYS IN ITALY |

The famous trulli of Alberobello in Puglia – Photo by Holly Farrier on Scopio

Amalfi Coast

Average high: 14°C (57.2°F)

Average low: 9°C (48.2°F)

Rainy days average: 3

The Amalfi Coast may be better known for the sun-drenched days of summer that many tourists spend here, but this iconic destination is still a gem in winter.

One thing to note is that, because of rough seas, ferries don’t always run in the winter. It’s best to pick one Amalfi Coast town to stay in , and spend time relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

At Christmas, streets along this stretch of shoreline are decorated with lights. There are big celebrations for New Year as well. On the whole, days are still nice and sunny: perfect for exploring the practically deserted towns here.

While you might not be able to go on that idyllic Positano boat tour or boat trip to Capri , you’ll still be able to see the ruins of Pompeii , hike the Path of the Gods , explore Positano and beyond.

However bear in mind that because of the lack of tourists, many eateries and hotels catering for them are shut at this time of year.

Enjoying drives along the beautiful Amalfi Coast, with Positano behind me

Matera  

Average high: 11°C (51.8°F)

Average low: 7°C (44.6°F)

Rainy days average: 6

Elsewhere, Matera is cold, and sometimes sees snow, but it’s good for a bit of winter sun.

The major draw here are the cave dwellings in the Sassi area, which are usually crawling with tourists, but in winter you’ll basically have them to yourself.

Matera is lively during the winter, and hosts big celebrations in its piazzas.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 WEEKS IN ITALY |

The view over Matera from the viewpoint of the Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

The view over the Sassi of Matera from Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio

Average low: 5°C (41°F)

People might talk about the Tuscan sun (have you seen that awesome travel movie ?), but in the winter this region is no less special.

From its charming villages to its famous cities like Florence , there’s no end of sights and experiences that will make your trip amazing.  

Sunset over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo

View over the Tuscan countryside

Minus all the crowds of the high season (and there are a lot in Tuscany in summer), you can expect cheaper room rates and transportation costs, which means a much cheaper overall Italy trip cost !

Exploring Pisa , Florence and Siena without huge crowds is a breath of fresh air when compared to what it’s like in summer.  

Visiting these cities’ big sights and museums packed with culture is much more fun when there aren’t hundreds of people all trying to do the same thing!

You’ll get to see a more local slice of life in these iconic cities, whereas road tripping around the Tuscan countryside means sharing the road with locals rather than day-trippers and tourist traffic.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

Sicily  

Average high: 16°C (60.8°F)

Sicily is much warmer than the rest of Italy during winter. It’s a good time of year to come to soak up the island’s architecture, history and natural scenery minus tourist crowds.

But things still do get very lively, especially around the holidays. Christmas markets in its major towns, not least the principal city of Palermo, are a major attraction.

The Greek amphitheatre of Taormina at sunset

Ragusa Ibla seen from the neighbouring hill

Sicily has a lot of amazing food, which you can enjoy during the winter months, spending hours over a long lunch. The winter oranges in Sicily mean delicious freshly squeezed orange juice wherever you go.

There’s a lot of history on this island.

From ancient sites such as Motya, a Phonecian settlement founded in the 8th century BC, to ornate Norman palaces and imposing cathedrals, history buffs will have an awesome time lapping it all up during winter (no day-tripping crowds to share it with!).

Piazza del Duomo in Catania, Sicily

The main cathedral in Noto

Is winter a good time to visit italy?

Of course! Yes, it won’t be the stereotypical trip to Italy in summer, riding Vespas into the sunset and throwing coins into fountains, but it will be amazing.  

You can have an atmospheric, unforgettable time anywhere you go, whether you choose to spend your time making the most of the ski season in mountain areas, or if you prefer to see what Italy’s cities – Rome , Florence, Milan – look like without tourists.

And then there’s Christmas: Italians do it well, so it’s a great time of year to come and join in the fun.  

Last but not least, for those looking for winter sun, heading to the south of the country can yield some great results.

I wouldn’t recommend going to Sardinia , especially not if you plan on island hopping , or hiking in Cinque Terre , but other southern regions in Italy like Sicily can still offer a lot also in winter.

You won’t exactly be sitting on the beach, but you can still tick off some unique historical attractions from your Italy bucket list , and more than likely you’ll be experiencing something milder than your own country can offer in the depths of winter!

Watching the sunset over the Vatican and Ponte Sant’Angelo from Ponte Umberto in Rome

Final thoughts on visiting Italy in winter

There you have it, the ultimate winter in Italy guide! Have you been to Italy before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

In this article I tried to include everything you need to know about visiting Italy in winter, as well as highlighting where exactly in Italy you should be going in winter, to make the most of your trip.

Winter in Italy is great. Obviously the weather isn’t perfect, but it’s still better than many other European countries. Pair that with less tourist crowds and cheaper prices, and you have a winner!

Whether you choose to hit the slopes in the Alps, or wander around Italian cities, I hope you find this Italy winter guide useful in planning your own Italian winter vacation.

If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Before you go, make sure to check these 10 things Italians want you to know before travelling to Italy ! And these great quotes about Italy to inspire your Italy in winter trip even more!

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in winter in Italy? Pin it!

22 of the Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter

From big cities to small hidden towns to islands, the list of the best places to visit in Italy in winter is diverse and includes all types of destinations.

Whether you want to escape the crowds of the spring and summer months, get into the holiday spirit, or just see a different side of this incredible country, here’s a wanderlust-fueling Italy winter travel bucket list.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Weather in Italy in the Winter

It goes without saying that different regions offer different weather.

While the average highs in many northern Italian cities can be 0°C-8°C (32°F-50°F), temperatures in the southern part of the country can get to 15°C (59°F) by day.

Some days can be sunny and others rainy or snowy, so it’s best to check the forecast for a specific destination.

Is It Worth Visiting Italy in Winter?

Wait, should you even travel to Italy in winter? YES!

Let’s be honest, it’s always worth visiting Italy. Sure, spring and summer are the obvious choices for traveling through this stunning country, but winter has its advantages too.

Since the weather varies from north to south, you have an opportunity to plan different types of trips.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Italy in the winter, you can engage in winter sports, visit some Christmas markets, have a laid-back trip to winter sun destinations, unwind at some spa towns, and the list goes on.

Plus, cities that are normally crowded can be enjoyed without as many people, so visiting places like Rome or Venice in winter is a great idea.

Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter: Northern Italy

If you’re looking for cities that host Christmas markets, skiing areas, and other cold-weather destinations, northern Italy is a perfect choice.

By Catherine from  Nomadicated

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the dramatic mountain range of the Dolomites features 18 jagged peaks and picturesque valleys.

Now imagine a winter trip to the beautiful snowcapped landscape glistening against the hues of sunset.

South Tyrol and the Dolomites is one of the best Italian winter destinations for winter sports enthusiasts, foodies, and those looking to snuggle up after a spa day.

Considered one of the best ski resorts globally, the Dolomiti Superski network offers 1 ski pass to more than 1,200 kilometers of slopes across 12 ski resorts.

Before ending any ski day, indulge in the Italian tradition, stopping for an Aperitif at one of the huts.

If you’re not a skier or snowboarder, try any number of other winter sports, such as sledding, snowshoeing, or going for an enjoyable winter hike in the mountains.

A trip to the Dolomites wouldn’t be complete without going to an alpine lake. Lago di Braies is a forerunner for one of the best lakes to visit, even if frozen.

After soaking in all the beauty of South Tyrol and wearing yourself out with winter activities, enjoy the Alps’ unique culinary delights.

This area combines Italian and Germanic influence with traditional alpine dishes to form one of the most distinctive regional cuisines. Make sure to try specialties like cured meats, polenta, and apfelstrudel.

By Mary from Wanderu

One of the best times to visit Milan, the capital of the Lombardy region , is during the off-peak season, winter. Even if you stumble upon a rainy day in Milan , you’ll have plenty to do.

It’s much easier to see sights that usually have hours-long lines, like the Duomo and The Last Supper in Santa Maria Delle Grazie Church, as well as enjoy Milan’s hidden gems .

And without crowds at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, you can shop through this gorgeous Renaissance building and score deals on some of its high-end offerings.

In December, it hosts several Christmas markets and wears a festive look with decorated shops and streets. Don’t miss the markets near the Duomo and the Sforza Castle, which must be included in your Milan itinerary .

Consider planning your trip to coincide with the Carnevali Ambrosiani in February. Decorated masks, music, and parades characterize this lively event that takes place in front of the Duomo.

Milan is also the perfect home base for some truly incredible skiing in the Alps.

Within a few hours’ drive, you can reach world-famous winter sports destinations like Courmayeur on Mont Blanc, Cervinia near Zermatt, and Bormio, with some hot springs as a bonus!

And while you might need a rental car to go skiing, traveling to and from Milan is cheapest by bus.

If you’re combining a couple of destinations in one trip, you can reach  Florence from Milan by bus  for under $10, and many other cities throughout Italy are connected by trains, so you can take plenty of winter day trips from Milan .

By Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

Venice is one of the best places to visit in Italy during winter.

Not only is it the perfect time to avoid the crowds (especially at the  popular Instagram spots ), but prices can also be more affordable this time of year, making it ideal for budget travelers.

In winter, there’s so much to do in Venice. Be sure to visit Doge’s Palace, stand in awe of the beauty at St. Mark’s Square, and spend time getting lost and exploring some of the lesser-visited neighborhoods in the city. 

Should you be visiting in December, you may even be able to see the giant Christmas tree in St. Mark’s Square, which is miraculous.

If you’re feeling up to it, a gondola ride is also so much fun in Venice, but just know that it is a bit of a heftier cost than other activities in the city.

For food, be sure to get out of the touristy areas near St. Mark’s Square to find spots that the locals are more likely to visit. Not only will this allow you to get better prices, but you’ll also potentially meet some locals while dining.

Pro tip: Even in the winter, it’s best to wake up early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Most people don’t necessarily stay on one of the islands, so Venice tends to get a lot busier as the day goes on. It tends to be less crowded until around 10 a.m.!

By Lori from Travlinmad

One of the very best places to see in Italy in winter is the  Bolzano Christmas market , considered the largest and best Christmas market in Italy.

It’s a festive time of year in the Italian Alps and is guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit! The festivities start in late November and last for nearly a month.

Located in northern Italy’s South Tyrol or Trentino-Alto Adige region, just 160 km (100 miles) from the border with Austria, Bolzano is very easy to get to by train from major northern cities like Milan, Venice, Verona, Bologna, and Florence.

Held in the Piazza Walther, the market is warm and festive with brightly lit decorations and the aromas of pastries, cinnamon, and holiday sweets in the air.

You can enjoy South Tyrolean specialties like big soft pretzels with assorted toppings, an array of pastries, seasonal favorites, warm mulled wine, and crunchy flatbread called schüttelbrot.

You’ll also find all sorts of small traditional Christmas gifts to jump-start your holiday shopping. There are small carved wooden toys, knitted hats and gloves, candles, sweets, Magi scenes, and much more.

If you’re lucky, you just might experience it in the snow!

By Natalie from Voyage Scribe

Aosta is a small city in northwestern Italy that most people probably haven’t heard of, but it’s one of the best places to visit in the country during the winter and one of the best areas to stay in Aosta Valley .

That’s because it is located right in the middle of some of Italy’s best skiing areas. One of them, Pila, can even be accessed from the city center of Aosta.

You’ll find a cable car just a few minutes walk from the train station, making Aosta one of the  best places in all of Europe to go skiing without access to a car .

Pila is a mountain for intermediate skiers, but there are other ski area options in the Aosta Valley for all levels, like Courmayeur, for which Aosta makes a great base.

Beyond skiing, there is a lot to see in the city itself if you want a day off from the slopes. Aosta was an important city in the Roman Empire, so it has a long history with lots of fascinating ruins that you can still visit today.

These include the ruins of a Roman theater (currently closed until May 2025), ancient churches, and the forum, along with an archeological museum with other historical finds, all making Aosta worth visiting and a must-visit destination in Aosta Valley .

If you’ve yet to travel to Verona, known as the city of love or the city of Romeo and Juliet, consider visiting it on your next Italian winter break.

Apart from visiting famous landmarks like the Verona Arena, Juliet’s House, and Castelvecchio (“Old Castle”), you can enjoy the decorated streets, Christmas markets, and other seasonal events.

Absorb the Christmas spirit at the markets in Piazza dei Signori and the Courtyard of the Old Market (Cortile del Mercato Vecchio), check out the Star of Bethlehem   in Piazza Bra, and try a local Christmas cake called  Pandoro .

You can also take a short bus ride to marvel at the Flover Christmas Village in the town of Bussolengo or hire a car for a day to enjoy the Christmas markets and festivals taking place in some of Lake Garda’s towns, including Bardolino, Malcesine, and Arco.

Known as one of the best cities in Italy for foodies, Bologna is the intriguing capital of the Emilia-Romagna region.

During the winter, not only does it wear a festive look but also hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Italy, the Ancient Fair of Saint Lucia.

The fair takes place under the portico of the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi in Strada Maggiore, and its history traces back to the 16th century.

While you’re wandering through the stalls, you can buy ornaments and gifts or try some seasonal sweets like nougats and candied almonds.

If you’re looking to explore the city beyond the winter events, you can take a food tour, climb the Asinelli Tower, and admire the Basilica of San Petronio.

Be sure to also visit the 16th-century Archiginnasio building, explore the Museum of Modern Art of Bologna (MAMbo), grab a bite at the Mercato delle Erbe, and take one of these foodie tours in Bologna .

However you choose to spend your time here, it won’t take you long to understand why it’s one of the best cities to visit in Italy in winter.

The capital of the Piedmont region , Turin, is an underrated northern Italian destination that has so much to offer.

It is the birthplace of brands like Fiat and Lavazza, the Italian chocolate capital , and home to countless fascinating museums and UNESCO-listed royal palaces of the House of Savoy.

While the temperatures are very low in December, January, and February, there’s a good chance you’ll get to enjoy some sunny days alongside snowy ones.

If you’re visiting Turin in winter , check out the Christmas markets at Piazza Castello and Piazza Santa Rita, enjoy the Christmas edition of the vintage Bunker Big Market, and marvel at the decorations and twinkling lights adorning the historic center’s streets and shops.

Even if the weather gets too cold or rainy, you’ll have enough indoor things to do in Turin .

From sipping a cup of  Bicerin  (a local chocolate-coffee hot drink) at historic cafes to visiting the National Museum of Cinema to wandering through the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), you won’t get bored.

Need more info to plan your winter vacation in Italy’s 4th-largest city? Read:

• Where to stay in Turin
• Turin travel tips
• Hidden gems in Turin
• Long weekend in Turin
• Is Turin worth visiting?
• Milan or Turin

By Una from Wandernity

Winter is the perfect time to visit Lake Como, one of the most visited in the northern Italian lake district . The snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the crystal-clear waters, and the air is crisp and fresh.

The small towns that dot the shoreline are full of charm, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

There are many  things you can do in Lake Como  in winter without having to pay the higher accommodation costs of the summer season.

During the winter, there are fewer crowds in Lake Como, so you might enjoy a stroll through some of the more popular towns, such as Bellagio or Varenna, without hundreds of people around.

If you are feeling more active, the nearby mountains offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

And, of course, no visit to Lake Como would be complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine.

From hearty pasta to melt-in-your-mouth polenta, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget about the tasty Italian wine!

So if you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s both beautiful and delicious, look no further than Lake Como.

Best Winter Destinations in Italy: Central Italy

By Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

As the third most visited city in Europe, a trip to Rome usually comes with hordes of tourists. Being a popular destination for the summer months and shoulder seasons, the colder winter months tend to be significantly quieter.

Visiting Rome  in winter is, therefore, the best way to avoid the crowds. It offers a different and wonderfully refreshing perspective of the “Eternal City”. 

There is no better time of year to soak up the main tourist attractions than in winter.

Wander the Vatican City and visit the Sistine Chapel at a leisurely and peaceful pace. See landmarks like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain without rows of people obstructing your view.

It also means you don’t have to book tickets for every single attraction in advance. Be a little more spontaneous and soak up the dolce vita lifestyle.

The weather in winter is chilly and a little rainy at times. Although it’s cold, it’s not freezing – so just pack accordingly, and it won’t be a problem.

If you’re visiting around Christmas time, you can see the city lit up with Christmas sparkles and decorations for a truly magical atmosphere.

Plus, be sure to visit the Christmas markets in the piazzas throughout the city.

Check out this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary !

By Chris from Around The World With Me

Often overlooked for Florence to the north,  Siena  is a charming medieval city that will pleasantly surprise you. The entire wall-enclosed city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can easily be explored in one or two days. 

Winter can be an ideal time to visit this beautiful Tuscan city. While it won’t be as warm as south Italy, it hardly ever gets below freezing, and winter highs can be pleasant for a walk around town.

Exploring the sites of Siena on foot is the ideal way to spend your time in the city.

Siena is extremely hilly, and a visit during the colder months will make walking around the city more comfortable, while summers will leave you drenched in sweat and in dire need of water breaks. 

The downside of the weather in winter is that rain is more likely than in summer, and the days are far shorter. But this is worth it to avoid the crowds of tourists that visit in the warmer months.

Winter is also an ideal time to avoid the crowds in arguably the world’s most famous wine region of Chianti, just north of the city. So book a wine tour and enjoy that Chianti Classico! 

By Annabel Smudged Postcard

Gubbio is a delightful hillside town in northern  Umbria  in central Italy . 

With its wealth of history – dating back to Etruscan times, its truffle-infused cuisine, and its strong cultural traditions, Gubbio is a brilliant Italian town to visit at any time of year. However, wintertime is a particularly intriguing period to travel to Gubbio.

Each year, since 1981, a group of local volunteers construct a giant Christmas tree made from lights.

This structure – not a real tree – lies against the steep slopes of Mount Ingino, and by night it creates the illusion of a vast illuminated tree.

Visitors come to the town during Christmas time to see this unusual sight that entered the Guinness World Record books in 1991. The tree is 750 meters in height, and it lit on 7th December, remaining alight for around a month.

Gubbio is also an excellent base for exploring the wider region of Umbria – wintertime sees far fewer tourists at important destinations such as Assisi, Perugia, and Urbino.

By Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

Perugia is the capital of off-the-beaten-path Umbria and a quintessential medieval wonderland.

Think secret passageways, forts, and who knows, perhaps even a knight in shining armor, though he might be coveted away in one of the many museums the city holds.

Those visiting Perugia in the winter better bring some warm clothes, as with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (42.8°F), it tends to get cold, but with ample sunshine!

The best thing to do in Perugia is get lost in the Historical Center, find yourself a nice bar, and order an Aperol Spritz and pasta with truffle shavings. In fact, truffles grow in abundance in the Umbrian region and, as such, are very affordable.

Pop into the 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori, which holds the National Gallery of Umbria on the third floor and the impressive Cappella dei Priori. 

Next, head over to the impressive Piazza IV Novembre and dart into the 15th-century Perugia Cathedral, impressive even in its perpetual unfinished state.

If churches are your jam, the round Sant’Arcangelo Church should be your very next stop.

End the day in one of the many little restaurants located in the various tiny streets around Piazza IV Novembre. As the sun starts to set, you will experience the true charm of a medieval  Umbrian village .

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Winter is a wonderful time to visit Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance.

Not only will you encounter fewer crowds at popular spots, but you’ll find that accommodations are cheaper and that there are many events around the holidays.

Although it’s cold in Florence in the winter, bundle up, and you can enjoy a magical time in this beautiful Tuscan city.

One of the  best things to do in Florence  around Christmas is simply to wander around the historic center, which is dressed up with twinkling yellow lights and traditional red and green holiday decorations.

Stop to admire the nativity scenes you’ll find as you stroll, as well as the large Christmas trees decorated with ornaments and lights.

There are several Christmas markets in the city, but a convenient one you won’t want to miss is right in front of the Basilica di Santa Croce. Buy a souvenir or sample goodies on offer in the stalls.

Florence’s most famous sights are easier to access during the winter. Climb to the top of the Duomo for fantastic views over the city, admire Michelangelo’s  David  at the Accademia Gallery, or take in the many masterpieces at the Uffizi.

Whatever you choose to do, you will definitely find that Florence is one of the most beautiful places in Italy in winter!

By Lisa from Travel Connect Experience

Winter is the perfect season to enjoy long baths in the thermal pools that abound from north to south of the Italian peninsula.

One of the most popular spa destinations in Italy is Viterbo, where there are thermal baths to suit all tastes and budgets.

From the fancy spa Hotel Terme Salus, where daily admission costs €45, to the Terme dei Papi, which boasts a 2-km square pool and offers a daily admission of €18, to the more rustic “Bagnaccio” with 6 thermal pools (admission is €6).

The pools and spas are fed by the “Bullicame” spring, the most famous  hot spring near Rome , from which the sulfurous water rich in healing properties flows out at 58°C (136.4°F).

After spending hours in the thermal waters, the ideal continuation is to take a walk in the historic center of Viterbo, enclosed by intact medieval walls.

In the most picturesque neighborhood, San Pelligrino, there are many restaurants, such as “Il Gargolo”, that offer typical dishes of northern Lazio, but for an even more enjoyable dinner, let yourself be seduced by the excellent pizza of “Il Labirinto”.

The hospitality in Viterbo is excellent, and the prices are much more affordable than in other Italian cities that are more well-known and visited – one more reason to explore this city!

Best Places to Visit in Winter in Italy: Southern Italy and the Islands

If you’re looking for winter sun destinations, here are some must-visit places in southern Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia.

Baroque Towns of Val DI Noto, Sicily

By Soumya from Stories by Soumya

The Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto in southeastern Sicily are one of the best places for winter holidays in Italy. 

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, these 8 towns – Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, Noto, Palazzolo, Catania, Militello Val di Catania, and Caltagirone – are the finest example of Sicilian Baroque architecture.

They were all rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1693 and flaunt richly-sculpted Baroque facades, wrought iron balconies, grinning masks and cherubs, and exquisitely colored marble and mosaics. 

It is a good idea to begin your tour in Ragusa, a beautiful hilltop town that provides stunning views of the valley and the old town called Ragusa Ibla, filled with Baroque edifices. 

Head next to Modica for a taste of their dark chocolate, which has been produced for centuries using the same old traditional techniques. Visit the city of Catania, from where you can also book a day tour to the infamous Mount Etna.

Be sure to add Noto, the Capital of Baroque Art, to your  Sicily itinerary  because this small town has some of the most fascinating Baroque balconies in the world.

Winters are a great time to visit because the weather is relatively mild. Temperatures hover between 5°C-15°C (40°F-60°F).

Also, the absence of crowds and big tour groups gives you ample time to explore the architecture and wander the streets on your own.

By Agnes from  The Van Escape

Ostuni, la Città Bianca, is the white city of Puglia, rising majestically on a hill 218 meters above sea level.

The whitewashed city stands out clearly against the blue of the sea and the sky. It is located in southern Italy, between Bari and Brindisi.

Time flows differently here. It slows down. And you also slow down and absorb the charm of the city.

Winter is a good time to visit because the weather is still favorable for walking and sightseeing, and there are few tourists.

During the day, the temperature is around 14°C-15°C (57°C-59°C), and the days are sunny. At night, the temperature does not drop below 8°C (46.4°F).

The best way to enjoy Ostuni is to walk through the medieval old town, beautifully perched on a hill.

Get lost in the countless narrow cobbled streets, take in every corner, and admire the colorful doors and windows and the many arches that connect the buildings. You should also take a stroll along the city walls.

Be sure to visit Ostuni’s 15th-century Gothic cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. You’ll be impressed by the facade, an exciting mix of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Piazza Della Libertà is the largest square in the city, an ideal place for lunch or a drink. Here you will find the town hall, the church of San Francesco d’Assisi, and the column of Sant’Oronzo.

Only a few kilometers separate you from Ostuni to the beautiful Italian beaches. It is worth going for a winter walk, but remember to bring warmer clothes, as it can get windy at the seaside.

The most beautiful beaches in the area are Villanova, Lido Morelli, and Quatro di Mote.

By Laura from Travelers Universe

Matera, Italy’s cave city, is pretty no matter what time of the year you might visit. However, in winter, Matera can be blissfully quiet, and if you’re in luck, you might even see it covered in snow.

Being located in the south of Italy, in the region of Basilicata, temperatures tend to be quite mild even in the cold season, while sunny days are still the norm.

Up until not so long ago, the people of Matera were living under the poverty level.

But nowadays, this is changing rapidly, and the once humble cave dwellings are being converted into luxury boutique accommodations and fancy restaurants.

The old city of Matera was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Called the Sassi di Matera, it’s characterized by narrow labyrinthine streets dotted with rupestrian churches that you cannot miss.

However, one of the  best things to do in Matera  is to just get lost on purpose and let your feet take you places.

Most memorable corners are not in the guidebooks and don’t necessarily have a historical value, but they do speak volumes about the local way of life and the day-to-day struggles and joys of the locals.

Amalfi Coast

By Izzy from The Gap Decaders

The  Amalfi Coast  is a wonderful place in Italy to visit in winter.

Known for its famous stretch of road, which clings to the cliff face and twists from Sorrento to Salerno, this beautiful stretch of coastline has much to offer the winter visitor.

Positano, Italy , is a cascade of pastel-painted houses that step down from the road to the beaches below, lapped by turquoise waters in all seasons.

With a maze of charming cobbled streets connecting pretty Italian squares in the old town, Positano really is  la dolce vita .

Amalfi, the namesake of the coast, has some wonderful architecture and easily accessible beaches to enjoy.

Swimming won’t be possible in winter (unless you like cold water!), but boat trips to pretty Capri and the fascinating caves dotted along the coast will get you out on the water.

Ravello is considered the most romantic town in Italy and is located high in the hills above the coast, giving unsurpassed views of the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea.

It’s easy to see the whole coast in a day, but it’s best to spend longer here to really enjoy the laid-back vibe, get under the skin of each town and enjoy the mild winter weather.

By Richa from MyTicklefeet

If you are visiting either Naples or the Amalfi Coast, you must take a day trip to  Capri in the winter . You need to take a boat ride to get to Capri, and boats run from Naples, Sorrento, or Amalfi at regular intervals.

In winter, being a low tourist season, you may be sharing the boat ride with just a handful of people, so booking the tickets in advance may not be necessary.

The positive side of visiting Capri in winter is that you avoid the summer crowds and get this pretty island all to yourself.

The downside is that you won’t get to swim in the Mediterranean and most of the famous Capri shops are closed for the season.

A few must-do things here are visiting the Gardens of Augustus, from where you get gorgeous views of the Faraglioni rocks in the Mediterranean.

On the way, you will cross the famous Capri perfume shop, Carthusia. Even if you don’t buy anything, definitely stop by for window smelling.

You could also take the bus to visit the other side of the island and enjoy the views of Mt. Vesuvius from Villa San Michele.

Right behind this villa, you’ll find the chairlifts that will take you to the top of Mount Solaro, which also serves breathtaking views of the Italian coastline. 

By Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel

Naples is one of the best places to visit in winter if you want to experience authentic Italian culture without the crowds.

Firstly, Naples is extremely well-connected to the rest of the world with its major international airport. It is also quick and easy to get into the city center and is often used as a base to explore other parts of Italy.

Day trips to famous landmarks and historical sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, or Mount Vesuvius are easy to arrange and do not require hot summer weather to enjoy them.

Temperatures in winter will normally reach about 15°C (59°C), so the weather is still mild and comfortable, but there is an increased chance of rain.

That said, these activities are perfect for rainy days, and a simple train journey is all it takes. You can also book one of the many tours available.

There are many other  things to do in Naples, Italy , such as exploring the medieval Castel del’Ovo or several of the monuments and piazzas throughout the city.

The main square is Piazza Plebiscito, with several beautiful buildings and market stalls.

This square is THE place to be on New Year’s Eve, where you can enjoy spectacular fireworks displays.

If you’re traveling near Christmas, then be sure to check out the Christmas market in Via San Gregorio Armeno in the Spacca Napoli neighborhood.

Finally, don’t forget that Napoli is the home of famous Italian pizza! A visit wouldn’t be complete without a stroll down Pizza Alley, taking in the aromas and choosing which pizzeria to dine in for the evening.

You can even take it one step further and take a pizza-making class. Not only will you learn new culinary skills, but you can also enjoy your creations. Win-win, right? 

Cagliari, Sardinia

By Daniel from Urban Abroad

Cagliari is the capital city of the Sardinia region in Italy. It’s located on its southernmost side, facing the homonymous gulf.

Cagliari is a great destination to visit during the winter months because temperatures are warmer than in many other cities in the Italian boot. From November to February, the temperatures can range between 5/6 C° and 14/15 C°.

You’ll find there is a wide range of  things to do in Cagliari , and you can easily spend 3 or 4 days of your time exploring the inner city.

For example, in the historical center, start your itinerary from the Castello neighborhood.

From there you can find the Bastione Saint Remy and Torre dell’Elefante, plus don’t forget to make a stop at the most important cathedral of the city: Santa Maria Assunta and Santa Cecilia.

Get a glimpse of the local life by visiting the San Benedetto market and trying local foods such as  malloreddus ,  fregula , or  culingionis !

Between the neighborhoods of Castello and Stampace, you can also find a Roman amphitheater, representing the heart of social life back in the Roman era. 

If you love the ocean, why not go to the beach? Even during the winter months, they are pleasant, and you can visit some of Cagliari’s most popular beaches, including Poetto and Chia.

Other Italy Travel Guides

If you’re thinking of touring Italy in winter, you might also want to read:

• Best places to visit in October in northern Italy
• Best road trips in Italy
• Is Bari worth visiting
• Best things to do in Bari
• Where to stay in Bari
• Places to visit near Bari
• 5-day Puglia itinerary without a car
• Hidden gems in Puglia
• Visiting Puglia in March
• Hidden gems in southern Italy
• Road trips from Milan
• Things to do in Vicenza
• Gifts for Italy lovers
• Romantic novels set in Italy
• Books set in Tuscany
• Italy travel quotes
• Best winter city breaks in Europe
• Vienna in winter
• Best area to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “22 of the Best Places to Visit in Italy in Winter”

We are Americans who will soon retire and want to spend Jan-March 2025 in Europe. We are with you on the addiction to coffee and pastries! And wine, too. I would appreciate your thoughts on where we might find a welcoming place to stay with milder temperatures, relatively easy travel access, and moderate rental prices. We speak only English and a little French. Our initial thoughts are maybe one place for a base or maybe one per month and go from there.

Hey Mike! Always a pleasure to meet a fellow lover of coffee, pastries, and wine! For milder temperatures in these months, look for places like southern Portugal, southern Spain, and southern Italy. You won’t be able to sunbathe, some businesses might be closed because it’s the off-season, and there are some rainy days, but these areas are still warmer than other parts of Europe. Southern Spain might be a great place to start because it’s also fairly easy to get around by public transport (the main cities in the region are well-connected).

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

Fearlessly Italy

Italy In Winter – Top Destinations to Visit + What to Expect

Are you planning to visit Italy in winter for a quiet vacation? You couldn’t pick a better time.

In winter in Italy, you can either opt for busy days like Christmas and Carnival or quieter periods when you will find fewer crowds.

Apart from the holidays, in Italy in winter you can enjoy cheaper prices, so if you are free and don’t mind cold weather, this is the right time to book your ticket.

This guide to Italy in winter is aimed at helping you plan a great trip and tell you what to expect.

Table of Contents

Weather in Italy in winter

Winter runs from December 21st to March 20th. Even though December for the first three weeks is officially fall, due to the festive spirit and the somehow cold weather, it feels like winter.

Moreover, it’s a pretty busy holiday season so I didn’t feel like skipping it all together.

Weather in Italy in December

If you are looking for anywhere warm in Italy in December , you will be disappointed. Even though some regions are warmer than others, winter in Italy is not a beach season.

December gives us cold temperatures overall, more so in the northern regions rather than in the south.

In general, from Rome southward, the weather is milder than in regions like Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Valle d’Aosta. In central Italy, it rains quite a bit in winter but there are also many sunny days. Heading north, the weather becomes colder, and in mountain areas definitely biting.

The temperatures can vary from near 0°C in northern cities to around 15°C in the south.

Weather in Italy in January

Across Italy, January is one of the coldest months . Temperatures go from below 0°C in some areas in northern Italy to 13°C the maximum of some cities in the southern regions.

Even though there will be a big difference between north and south, warm winter clothes will be needed everywhere in January.

Weather in Italy in February

Along with January, February is the coldest month of the year in Italy, and just like January, you will need a coat, a jacket, a scarf, and a hat to stay warm.

Temperatures in February in Italy range from around -2°C the minimum in the north to around 13°C the maximum in the south.

Weather in Italy in March

On March 21st, spring it officially starts, but for the first three weeks of the month, it’s still winter. March is quite rainy. in Italy, we call it a “crazy” month ( Marzo pazzo ) because it’s unstable and showers can start unexpectedly at any time.

Temperatures are still cold even though not as cold as January and February and sunny days start sneaking in more often.

Which part of Italy is warmest in winter?

If you are looking for the warmest areas of Italy in winter, head deep south. Think Sicily, Puglia, or even Sardinia , especially Cagliari or San Pietro and Sant’Antioco islands in the south.

Is it worth going to Italy in the winter? 5 reasons to plan your trip

• Fewer crowds. Apart from Christmas and the biggest Carnival parties, Italy in winter is pretty calm. While major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice will still have lines at the entrance of their landmarks, most towns and cities will have fewer crowds.
• Cheaper. Winter in Italy is somehow off-season so hotels and flights will have better rates, especially in the months of January and February (excluding New Year’s Eve and the days of Carnival).
• The weather. If you are anything like me, you will prefer walking in the cold with a coat rather than sweating under the scorching summer sun.
• Festive atmosphere. Between Christmas, New Year, and Carnival, winter in Italy is full of holidays and parties. On each occasion, there are different traditions and types of foods to try.
• Traditional foods. If you are in Italy in winter, don’t miss the delicacies made with pumpkin, mushrooms, and all types of cabbages, including cozy soups and comfort food. And obviously, tuck into the addictive Christmas cakes such as panettone, pandoro, and panpepato!

What to do in winter in Italy

Enjoy the christmas spirit.

Probably the reason number one for visiting Italy in winter, the Yule spirit is magic all across the country. From north to south, you will be surrounded by festive decorations, beautiful streetlights, and shimmering shop windows.

From the 8th of December, you will see decorated trees and nativity scenes around every corner, the most iconic images of Christmas in Italy . Whether you are religious or not, this is a magic time to visit Italy.

Skiing enthusiasts will love to discover the Italian mountains in winter. From the Alps of the Valle d’Aosta to the Dolomites of Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, you will be spoiled for choice.

If you planned your holiday in central Italy, don’t worry, the Apennine mountain range of the Lazio and Abruzzo regions offers great ski resorts and breathtaking snow-covered peak views.

Do some cultural sightseeing

I know that winter in Italy can give us some rain, but this shouldn’t stop you from sightseeing. Italy is packed with museums . From art galleries to archaeological museums to notable palaces, there’s plenty to see and do.

When it rains, ducking into a museum is the first thing to do, but since it doesn’t rain all the time, the cold weather makes it pleasant to walk around the cities without having to sweat like in summer.

Attend Italy’s Carnival

Apart from Christmas, another popular reason to travel to Italy in winter is to attend one of its Carnivals. From the colorful masks swanning about the canals and bridges of Venice to the ancient rituals of Sardinia, the Italian Carnival is always full of surprises.

If you are into wild parties, don’t miss the Battle of the Oranges of the Ivrea Carnival in Piedmont, while for huge satirical floats, the Carnival of Viareggio in Tuscany is one of the most famous. Even though less famous, Carnival in Rome is also very interesting and worth attending if you are around.

Go shopping

One of the most awaited times of the year for shopaholics, right after the Christmas holidays, usually starting on January 7th is one of the biggest sales events.

From clothes to shoes to accessories, you will find the big “Sconti” signs in every shop and store luring customers in with discounts starting from 30% off all goods.

Stores will be quite crowded but if you are looking for some trendy shopping at convenient prices, this is the perfect occasion.

Best places to visit in Italy in winter

Trentino-alto adige.

Winter is the peak of the season in Trentino-Alto Adige and there must be a reason for that. This beautiful northern Italian region is the perfect winter destination in Italy thanks to its snow-capped mountains, fantastic and well-equipped ski resorts, and obviously top-notch organization all around.

From the bigger cities like Trento , Bolzano , and Merano to smaller towns like the quaint Bressanone, Levico, and Rovereto, the Trentino-Alto Adige region offers a diverse range of experiences and activities.

Apart from skiing, in fact, you can visit its beautiful castles such as Castel Thun , the off-road sanctuaries like San Romedio , its wonderful parks like the Trauttmansdorff Gardens, and sample its heavily German-influenced cuisine.

There is hardly a bad time to visit Rome, but if you are in Italy in winter, the capital is a top destination to include in your itinerary. Like in many other cities, spending Christmas in Rome is magic. The city lights up with shimmering water reflections, Christmas trees in every piazza, and nativity scenes in every church.

Apart from Christmas, though, across the winter months, Rome is quite calm, making it a perfect time to visit otherwise crowded landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums.

If you are used to Sardinia as a beach destination , you will be quite surprised to visit during the cold season. If you are a party person, you are going to love the vibe during the Sardinian carnival, from the Sartiglia races of Oristano to the rhythmic dance of Mamoiada’s Mamuthones .

Apart from the carnival, however, Sardinia is a great place to include in your Italy itinerary in winter because it’s the perfect season to explore the inland. In summer, in fact, it’s way too hot to travel around the island and visitors mainly stick to the coastline. This is a pity because exploring Sardinia’s towns and villages is a fascinating way to get to know this offbeat Italian region .

The Carnival of Venice is the biggest reason to visit this Italian city in winter. Cold and misty, Venice is stunning any time of the year. Apart from the carnival days, during the cold season, there is the perk of seeing fewer crowds.

Rains can cause floods and Venice city center might get inundated. This, however, never stopped tourists from visiting and locals from enjoying their city. Actually, a flooded Piazza San Marco is incredibly photogenic.

Valle d’Aosta

Similar to Trentino-Alto Adige but smaller, the northern region of Valle d’Aosta on the border with France and Switzerland offers beautiful mountain views and well-equipped ski resorts.

Ski fans on a trip to Italy in winter will love the quaint and traditional vibe of this region.

L’Aquila and the Abruzzo region

If you are looking for mountains not far from Rome, the peaks of Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso are very popular among locals. From some offbeat traveling, you can stay one day in L’Aquila , the capital of the Abruzzo region, and from there reach Campo Imperatore, the closest ski resort where you can also enjoy scenic hikes.

L’Aquila is a nice city to visit and since it’s much less touristy than others, it offers less expensive holidays with cheaper accommodations and restaurants.

Those who want to enjoy a vacation in winter in Italy with mild weather should head to Sicily. The southernmost and largest Italian island boasts a long history and a rich culture, so wherever you go, you will enjoy a wide array of fascinating experiences.

From local festivals to delicious foods, from stunning cities to archaeological sites, Sicily is perfect to explore in winter. Don’t miss important hubs like Palermo, Catania, Taormina, Ragusa, and Agrigento’s Valle dei Templi that you will enjoy with fewer crowds than in spring and summer.

South from Rome and easy to reach with a one-hour train ride, you should spend at least two days in Naples to see at least the main attractions. Apart from exploring Naples’s city center and main landmarks, you can also organize a day trip to Pompeii and Ercolano.

Given the weather not so apt for beach holidays, the tourist organization of the Amalfi Coast will be mainly shut down, so this is not an ideal destination to visit in Italy in winter.

I won’t deny it here, the Emilia-Romagna region in winter is cold. Its capital, though, is always a charming city to explore.

Your Bologna itinerary should include its famous Quadrilatero, the main central streets, the famous Piazza Grande square, and famous churches such as San Petronio Basilica and the fascinating Santo Stefano Basilica also known as the “church of the 7 churches”.

While in Bologna, you can also plan some cool day trips such as the UNESCO-listed Ravenna, one day in Parma , the coastal towns of Rimini, and Modena.

What to pack for Italy in winter

• Travel documents. National ID or passport depending on your country of origin. If you are going for a sporty winter trip, you should also consider travel insurance.
• Hydrating face cream. Wind and cold are challenging for the skin, so a good moisturizer is a must.
• Sunscreen. In the mountains, sunscreen is needed in winter, too.
• Backpack. Perfect on many occasions, I would recommend carrying a backpack especially if you are spending your winter Italy trip in nature, hiking, skiing, or trekking.
• Reusable travel bottle. Whether you travel to Italy in winter or summer, a reusable bottle to fill up with tap water is essential to be more eco-friendly and to save plenty.
• Sling bag. Either a funny pack or a crossbody bag, they are safer and less bulky than backpacks. These are especially handy in the city. Check out this handy sling bag by Tortuga .
• Smartphone.
• Power bank. Essential to charge your phone on the way.
• Camera. Whether compact or DSLR, don’t forget your camera for postcard pictures.
• Tech organizer. Chances are that between phone and camera, you will be carrying plenty of tech stuff such as cables, chargers, flash drives, and SD cards. For this, I love Tortuga’s tech organizer , compact and tidy.

Traveling with your family? Check out this guide “ How old does a baby have to be to fly? ” to know the requirements of the most popular airlines.

What to wear in winter in Italy

• Jumpers and sweaters. Italy in winter requires warm clothes so jumpers and sweaters are recommended all across the country.
• Long-sleeve tops. Perfect for layering.
• Thermals. If you are going to the mountains or to cold northern cities like Venice, Milan, or even Florence, you might want to pack a pair or two of thermal leggings and underwear tops.
• Wool trousers. Loose and comfortable for the day out, tighter and fancy for the night out.
• Winter jacket. A sporty winter jacket is essential to go out in Italy in winter.
• Coat. A longer coat is more elegant so pack one if you are thinking you are going out on some fancy dinner.
• Walking shoes. A pair of warm and comfortable walking shoes is essential anywhere you are going in Italy in winter. If you are going to the mountains, you might consider also hiking and trekking shoes.
• Ankle boots. These are very handy because they can be comfortable enough to go sightseeing and also elegant to go out in the evening with a skirt.
• Hat, scarf, and gloves. I wear a scarf from November through March, on the coldest days, also a hat, and when it’s particularly rigid, also gloves. Even though in Rome, it’s not always necessary to wear gloves, in northern Italy you will find them handy.

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

17 Best Places To Visit in Italy in winter

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Are you thinking about visiting Italy in winter? Then, this article is for you!

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and it should be on everyone’s travel bucket list !

While most visitors chose to come to Italy in summer, the country has also a lot to offer during the winter months.

Italy is blessed with several climates which means that depending on where you chose, you can either get some snow or some winter sun .

⏱️ IN A RUSH? Here is what you need to know about Italy in Winter

🌡️ Average temperature : 13°C – 55°F

🌞❄️ Climate : Winter sun in the South – Snow in the North

TOP 3 Places to visit in Italy in winter:

🏛️ Rome 🌋 Catania ⛷️ Courmayeur

It’s also a much better time if you like to stay away from the crowds. Most tourists have left and you get to enjoy all the attractions without having to queue for hours.

In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know about the weather at this time of the year and the best places to visit in Italy in winter.

🔎 Table of Contents

Weather in Italy in winter

Italy is one of the best European countries to visit in winter.

The temperatures and weather vary a lot between the South and the North which means that you can get pretty much anything you want.

Northern Italy is known for its cold and snowy weather. That’s where you’ll find most of the ski resorts. 

For example, the average temperature in Turin and Milan is between 3°C and 8°C (37°F to 46°F).

In Southern Italy, you will get to enjoy some winter sun and mild temperatures (up to 16°C / 61°F).

This is an excellent place if you want to escape the cold of the winter.

No matter what, you should always plan to take a good coat and winter clothes.

Best places to visit in Italy in winter

Now that you know everything about the weather and temperatures, it’s time to discover where to go!

Visiting Italy during the winter is always an excellent idea.

It’s one of the most touristy countries in the world and it can get incredibly crowded in summer.

If you choose to visit in winter, you will get to discover some of the most famous spots without the crowds. This means no hassle and no waste of time!

Also, accommodation is usually much cheaper in winter (though this is not applicable for Christmas or in the ski resorts)

You can find below the best places to visit in Italy in winter.

The capital city, Rome , is one of the most famous cities in Italy (and in the world).

While most people choose to visit during spring or summer, winter is actually an excellent season to discover the Eternal City as well.

Most tourists have gone home which means you will get to spend more time with the locals and discover what the city is really like!

It will also be much easier to visit the famous landmarks and museums as it’s less crowded and the queues are much shorter.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Rome in winter:

• Christmas celebrations. As you can imagine, Christmas is a big deal in Rome. That’s where you can find the Vatican so it’s only normal that there is a lot going on in December and January. The Christmas masses in Rome are a beautiful thing to see. As there are hundreds of churches around the city, you’ll find plenty! There are also a lot of things happening on the 6th of January, for the Epiphany.
• Nativity scenes. Rome is the perfect place to find beautiful nativity scenes. The largest is located in St Peter’s Square and is well worth a visit.
• Christmas markets . You will find loads of small Christmas markets and lights all around the city. Piazza Navona is a particularly good spot for that.
• Ice skating. There are many ice skating rinks that pops up around the city centre of Rome. The most famous one is located by Sant’Angelo Castle.
• Visiting the Colosseum . This is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks so it won’t be surprising it made the list! In winter, the queues are much smaller so it makes it easier to visit. You should still book your ticket online to avoid wasting time.
• Vatican museums . This is the perfect winter activity in Rome. Firstly, it’s indoor which means that you will escape the cold. Secondly, it’s nowhere as crowded in winter as it is in the summer, which makes the experience more pleasant.

READ MORE: The Perfect Rome 3 day itinerary: exactly how to spend 3 days in Rome, Italy

Located in Northern Italy, Venice is known as the most romantic city in the world.

Entirely built on water, Venice is incredibly unique. There is nothing quite like it.

Unfortunately, it’s also known for being a place overrun by tourists. This is not the case during the winter months! 

While in spring and summer, it can get very crowded, Venice in winter is very pleasant.

It will be a bit cold so you need to make sure to pack a good coat and hat but you will get to enjoy the place (almost) to yourself.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Venice in winter:

• Visiting the Doge’s Palace . This is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. Located by St Marks Square, the Doge’s Palace is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Venice and its previous rules. It’s also a great place to escape the cold as you will be mainly inside. To do that, make sure to book your ticket in advance . You can also opt for a guided tour.
• Visiting La Fenice Opera House . This is another indoor activity that is perfect for a winter visit. It’s one of the most beautiful opera houses in Italy. Make sure to book your ticket online.
• Walking tour . The best way to explore a city is to start with a walking tour. This is the case while visiting Venice in winter as well. The local guide will tell you everything you need to know about the history of Venice and the famous landmarks. He will also give you some insider tips to enjoy your visit. 
• Day trip to Murano and Burano . These colourful islands near Venice are popular day trips. You can easily get there by taking one of the local vaporettis. Once on the islands, have a stroll around to discover the beautiful houses and go see some artisanal glassblowing. You can also book a day tour from Venice for this.

3. Florence

Last but not least: Florence.

Located in Tuscany, this sumptuous city is known for being the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

If you love art and culture, Florence will be your paradise!

It’s a great place to visit in Italy during the winter because most tourists have left. This means you get to discover what the Tuscan capital is really like! Fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation… winter is the perfect time!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Florence in winter:

• Discovering the Christmas decorations. Florence is very well decorated in December and you will enjoy discovering all the lights. If you head to the Duomo, you’ll also find beautiful Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
• Christmas markets. Italy is also home to some wonderful Christmas markets. If you’d like to get some festive food and mulled wine, head to Weihnachtsmarkt in Santa Croce Square.
• Visit the Duomo of Florence . The cathedral is the most famous landmark in Florence and no matter what, you have to visit it. To do so, make sure to book your ticket in advance.
• Visiting the Uffizi Gallery . This is one of the most famous museums in the world and a must-do while in Florence. It’s a particularly good activity in winter as it’s indoor (you’ll escape the cold) and it’s not as busy as during the summer months. You will find incredibly famous paintings such as The Birth of Venus (Botticelli). Make sure to book your ticket in advance here.
• Going to see Michelangelo’s David . David is the most famous sculpture realised by Michelangelo and you’ll get to discover it in Florence. It’s located in the Accademia Gallery. You have to book your ticket in advance to be sure to get to see it.

Looking for a place to visit in Southern Italy in winter? Naples will be the perfect destination.

Known for its culinary culture (it’s the birthplace of the pizza after all!) and its friendly inhabitants, Naples is perfect for people who want to enjoy some winter sun and have an interest in history.

Naples was founded by the Greeks and later on became a very important Roman city. It also played an important role during the unification of Italy, the enlightenment and WWII.

Its historic centre has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Naples in winter:

• Walking tour of the historic centre . With all the civilisations that built Naples, the city is an absolute paradise for history buffs. There is so much to discover! The local culture is also particularly interesting. If you want to discover more about this, make sure to join the local guided tour of the historic centre.
• Discover the food . Neapolitan food is known as the best food in Italy. That says a lot about how good it is! The best way to experience the local delicacies here is to eat street food. Not only is it cheap but it’s also delicious. Make sure to get a pizza fritta for lunch and a Sfogliatelle for breakfast or afternoon snack. The Neapolitan Baba is also a must-try!
• Day trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum . It would be impossible to visit Naples without going to Pompeii. Located only 1 hour away from Naples, Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. It’s literally an open-air museum. A must see!
• Day trip to the Amalfi Coast. This popular summer destination is also a great place to visit during the winter. Of course, it’s unlikely you’ll go swimming at this time of the year but you can still discover the beautiful landscapes and colourful villages without the crowds.
• Naples Underground. Located in the heart of the historic centre, Naples Underground is the perfect place to visit if you like unusual sights. It has played a very important role as an air raid shelter during WWII. You will also get to discover a Greek-Roman aqueduct that was found in one of the flats nearby.

READ MORE:  Day trip from Naples to Pompeii

5. Courmayeur

Italy is widely known for its endless amount of skiing during the wintertime and that’s exactly what you will get in Courmayeur.

This small alpine resort is located in the Aosta Valley, at the foot of the famous Mont Blanc.

While it is the best place to go for snow skiing, Courmayeur offers more than a winter ski experience. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Courmayeur in winter:

• Skyway Experience . The most famous attraction in Courmayeur is the Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco in Italian). No matter what, you cannot leave this town without taking a trip there. It’s the highest mountain in Western Europe! You can take the cable car to Punta Helbronner station and enjoy the stunning views! Click here to see the latest prices.
• Skiing and Snowboarding. Courmayeur is home to one of the best ski resorts in Italy. You can get a ski pass and hit the slopes!
• Warm-up in a cute café. Courmayeur has adorable cafes located throughout with fresh coffee and pastries. Experience a true Italian cafe breakfast that will leave your taste buds watering!
• Enjoy the local cuisine . The dining choices are endless and if you are a foodie, you’ll want to plan ahead. If you don’t you’ll find yourself mindlessly scrolling through endless delicious options. If you are planning to go to a high rating restaurant you can always call to plan out when the best time would come to get in. 
• Shop on Via Roma , a vintage-style street full of name brand shops and items. It is located in the historic centre and has some great merchandise, food and drinks to purchase. 

Located on the Eastern coast of Sicily, Catania is the perfect destination if you are looking for some winter sun!

It’s the second-largest city on the island and there are so many things you can do here!

Catania is mainly known for its location, at the foot of Mount Etna.

It’s a great destination for people who want to go on a city trip while still getting the opportunity to take some more nature day trips.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Catania in winter:

• Walking tour of the city centre . There are many things to discover in the city centre of Catania including the beautiful cathedral of Sant’Agata, the Piazza del Duomo and the Castello Ursino. Joining a walking tour is a great way to discover all these sites as well as interesting facts about Catania.

Did you know? Part of the city was covered by the lava from Mount Etna in 1669. The new city was rebuilt on top of the old one. Unfortunately, Catania underground cannot be visited anymore but you can see parts of it around the city.

• Street food tour . The local food in Catania is absolutely delicious. There are so many things you should try. Arancini, granita… Catania truly is a paradise for all foodies out there! If you want to make sure to get the best dishes and bites, join this food tour.
• Day trip to Mount Etna and Taormina . These are two of the most beautiful places to visit in Sicily and you can easily get there on a day trip.

READ MORE: Catania Food Guide: what to eat in Catania and authentic culinary experiences

7. Cagliari

Located in the southern part of Sardinia , Cagliari is a beautiful spot that many tourists haven’t discovered yet. 

When you go, you’ll find fewer crowds of people, and this isn’t from the lack of things to do here. 

This city is rich in culture and architecture. 

It has a historical beauty to it that you can view yourself with minimal distractions. 

Cagliari is also a main port for cruises in the Mediterranean, in fact, it’s one of the best!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cagliari in winter:

• Walking tour of the Old City . This is an excellent way to discover more about the city and its history. The local guides are very friendly and will give you loads of tips to enjoy this little city on foot. There are Four City Districts for you to explore in Cagliari. Each has its own unique architecture, dining, shops, and outdoor activities.
• Bike tour of Cagliari . If you don’t fancy walking, you can opt for a bike tour. It’s good fun!
• Underground City . Many Italian cities have underground cities (Naples, Catania and more…), Cagliari is no exception and the great thing here is that the Underground can actually be visited.
• Discover the local cuisine. As Cagliari City centre is quite small, shops and restaurants are all within a short walking distance. There are many restaurants where you can get traditional Sardinian food.
• Pasta cooking class. If you’d love to be able to make delicious pasta back home, you can book a cooking class with a local. You’ll learn plenty, have fun and of course, get to eat pasta!
• Wine tour of Sardinia . There are a lot of wineries in Sardinia and if you are foodie, you can join this cool day tour.
• Check out the nightlife! If you aren’t exhausted from a full day of exploring the city, check out the great nightclubs and bars open throughout the evening. It is full of life, fun, and music. 

8. Alberobello

Located near Bari, in the Puglia region, Alberobello is one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy . 

Mostly known for their little white huts, named Trulli, Alberobello makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie scene. 

The houses are uniquely designed with whitewashed colours. In the wintertime, it is even more magical. 

With snow filling the ground, and the rooftops, it is a winter wonderland.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Alberobello in winter:

• Just explore! This is a city to walk around and look at the buildings throughout. It is the perfect place to grab some incredible photos and see historical landmarks. If you are interested in learning more about the Trulli and the history of Alberobello, you can join a walking tour . It’s well worth it!
• Discovering the beaches. The city is located in Puglia, which is one where you can find a beach with crystal blue water ( I mean it is picture-worthy). 
• Food tour of Alberobello . Puglia is known as one of the best places in Italy in terms of food so if you want to discover all the local delicacies and listen to some folklore stories, joining a food tour will be the perfect thing to do.
• Visit the Gargano National Park while you are here. You will find white rocks all around and a large white rock castle. Once you’re done exploring the National Park you can lay out of the white sandy beach until the sun goes down. 
• Cooking class. If you love local activities, join this cooking class in a local farmhouse. You’ll learn how to make a 4-course meal and of course, will eat plenty!

Lecce is also another town in Puglia that is known as one of the “ Most Beautiful Cities ”. 

Lecce is located in the southern part of Italy and it’s a great place to enjoy some winter sun! 

There are historical museums and landmarks throughout but the majority of this town will be soaking in the beauty and history. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Lecce in winter:

• Lecce Cathedral. If there is one landmark to visit here it is the Lecce Cathedral. This magnificent church dates back to the 1100s and the 17th century. The detail and history have been kept up for years to keep the beauty of this Cathedral going. 
• Roaming around town. The piazzas are a must here in Lecce. Those picture-perfect European alleyways you see on social media and wonder to yourself “where is that?”, this is where you will find them. Not only will you grab some great pictures but you’ll also find some great coffee and food here.
• Walking tour. If you want to learn more about the history of Lecce, join the local walking tour. It’s super interesting! You can also opt for a food tour during which you will try some of the best local specialities and learn about the city too!
• The Roman Theatre is another historical landmark not to miss here. It dates back to the 2nd century, with an indoor and outdoor area to explore. Inside you will find a museum-going over the history of the theatre.
• Take day trips. There are a lot of cute towns and beautiful beaches near Lecce and winter is a great time to explore them. The crowds have left and you can fully enjoy the places. You can for example opt for this day tour that includes Alberobello, Polignano and Ostuni.

10. Madonna di Campiglio

This is another very large ski resort in Italy, that is highly popular with locals and tourists for high-end snow skiing. 

It is located in the valley of Brenta Dolomites Mountain. 

You can choose from miles and miles of different slope trails in this ski resort. 

The trails mostly range from intermediate skill to expert skill level. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Madonna di Campiglio in winter:

• Skiing and snowboarding. This goes without saying but obviously the very best thing to do in Madonna di Campiglio in winter is hitting the slopes! You’ll find over 150km of slopes, mainly red but also loads of blue and black ones.
• Go out in town and try out the restaurants and bars in Madonna di Campiglio. This town is accessible by walking, gondola or bikes. It is car-free, so enjoy the outdoor area, scenic views, and people around you. 
• Guided tour. Find a guide to take you through the best trails and around the mountain ski resort. You can always choose to ski without a guide but guides will know the ins and outs of the trails, shortcuts, and even tell you a bit of history during your tour. 
• Paragliding. If you aren’t afraid of heights, paragliding is a must-do in Madonna di Campiglio. Soar across the tops of the mountain and terrain below. You’ll get to see Italy from a whole new angle from above!

11. Val di Funes

Val di Funes is a beautiful town in Italy known for its rolling hills. 

Those beautiful green hills you see in the Sound of Music, well they aren’t these exact ones but the landscaping is almost identical. 

It is a quiet valley full of churches all around. 

Many walk from the villages into the valley where the churches are located throughout. 

Some steeples are so high that they can be seen over the rolling hills.

This town turns into a small snowy escape during the wintertime, enough to enjoy the outdoors and walk through the snow. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Val di Funes in winter:

• Snowshoeing in the Dolomites . There are 9 different trails and hikes to choose from all ranging in difficulty and length. If you are an outdoor lover or love a good scenic hike, these trails will surely not disappoint. You can rent your snowshoes from a local shop or opt for a guided tour (this is recommended)
• Skiing. Downhill skiing is not the main activity here as there is only 1km of slopes however it is an option. If you’d like to ski though, backcountry skiing will be a much better option. There are loads of trails that you can take and it’s a great way to discover the stunning views of Sud Tyrol.
• Tiso Mineral Museum. There is a great Museum in Val di Funes highlighting the history of the alpine minerals. It is open to the public daily and is a great little taste of Italian history. 
• Enjoy a picnic on the hill. The landscape of this valley is the perfect area to grab some picnic items and take them up to a spot of your liking. Of course in winter, there is snow everywhere so you need to be dressed according but if you have ski clothing, you’ll enjoy it! Relax on the hilltop, soak in the views, snap a few pictures and notice the relaxing calm this valley has. 

12. Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and has some of the oldest tombs located in its cathedrals. 

It is a beautiful city filled with history and unique architecture. 

Locals in Sicily are known as being very friendly and welcoming to others, including tourists. 

It is the largest luxury city in the world with elegant landscaping, large mansions, and palaces throughout. 

The weather during the wintertime stays pretty mild. It rarely gets cold enough here to snow. There are a lot of sunny days and opportunities to be outside and enjoy the city. 

It’s also a much quieter time to visit. Most tourists have gone and you really get to discover what the local life is like. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Palermo in winter:

• Street Food tour. Street Food is huge in Sicily and it’s definitely something you need to experience. Arancini, granite… there are so many delicious things to try! If you are a foodie and want to discover the best local street food, you should consider joining a local food tour. The local guide will make you try some delicious sicilian foods and tell you story about the city.
• Old Town Bike Tour . If you are a bit of a history buffs who loves to have fun then opt for a bike tour around the Old Town. It’s such a fun way to discover the city while learning plenty!
• Walk around in the Botanical Gardens of Palermo. This is a semi-large space in Palmero shaped in a square and designed for walking paths in all different directions. 
• Capo Street Markets. Palermo is known for its amazing markets. Here you’ll find delicious fresh products and local products. No matter what, make sure to visit at least one of them. The markets on Capo Street are particularly well known. If you want to learn more about the markets, you can also choose to join a market tour of Palermo.
• The Palermo Cathedral is an obvious must-see. With intricate detail, rich history, and artifacts this building is captivating. 
• Archaeological Museum . Many people go to Italy to experience the rich history, beautiful cathedrals, old palaces, and large mansions. Italy is truly a place for history nuts. When visiting Palermo, you need to check out the Archaeological Museum. This museum holds artifacts from decades before and ancient Greek Art. 
• Day trip to Agrigento . Palermo is located a couple of hours from Agrigento and the Valley of Temples. This is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Europe and is a must-see in Sicily. If you have a spare day, make sure to go on a day trip to Agrigento.

13. Amalfi Coast

Located near the beautiful city of Naples, the Amalfi Coast is a hot tourist area year-round in Italy but winter is definitely the best time to visit if you want to stay away from the crowds.

Most tourists come here in summer, spring or even autumn but in the wintertime, you get to enjoy a bit more of an authentic experience. 

The Amalfi Coast is a coast surrounded by large mountainous terrain. Along the coast are some small towns and beaches to explore with great restaurants, bars, and shops. 

There is no limit to luxury or high-quality items along Amalfi Coast. You can find high-quality hotels, restaurants, and shopping. 

Here are some ideas of things to do on the Amalfi Coast in winter:

• Visit the town of Positano and look at the picture-worthy homes on the mountainside. You can capture the draw-dropping view of the pastel homes staggered alongside the mountainside. It is the picture-perfect moment you only see in photos. 
• The town of Amalfi is another town along the coast to explore. It is larger than the other towns along the coast, with the only town to have its own Cathedral. Find dining options here to enjoy the views and the fresh Italian food. 
• Tour the Emerald Cave ( Grotta dello Smeraldo) located just outside of Amalfi. The guide takes you around the cave in a boat pointing out historical and geographical landmarks. The cave is lit up by natural emerald light which is beautiful in and of itself. 
• Sorrento. Sorrento is the main town on the Amalfi Coast and a great place to visit if you like to roam around cute towns. You can easily get there from Naples with the circumvesuviana train.
• Day trip to Capri. Capri is one of the most famous islands in Italy and you can easily get there from the Amalfi Coast. You can book a boat tour here.

Turin is the capital of Piedmont Italy but used to be the capital of Italy itself. 

This city has a large military history dating back to the Romans. 

It is known for its delightful cuisine and world-class dining areas. The Swiss Alps are located off in the distance towards the Northside of the city. 

It is a remarkable sight to see when the sun starts to set.

It gets quite cold in Turin in winter. After all, it has hosted the Winter Olympics before so it is definitely a snowy place but it’s still a great destination for people looking for a winter city break.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Turin in winter:

• The Turin Egyptian Museum is a fun way to learn the historical and educational background of the Egyptians. It has display cases of artefacts and collections from hundreds of years. It’s the most famous museum in the city and well worth a visit if you are interested in Ancient Egypt. Make sure to book your ticket in advance.
• Royal Palace . As previously mentioned, Turin used to be the capital city so it’s only normal you’d find a royal palace here. It’s absolutely stunning and a great place to discover beautiful examples of Italian art.
• Walking tour of the city. Turin was a very important city in Italy and there are so many things to know about it. The best way to discover more about Turin and its role is to join a walking tour. The local guide will also give you many tips to enjoy the rest of your stay. Make sure to wear a hat and a good coat though as you’ll be outside and it can be a bit cold.
• The National Cinema Museum is located in the Mole Antonelliana tower. This museum houses large collections of movie reels, props, books, and other miscellaneous objects. This museum is five stories high with a different theme on each level. 
• Palace of Venaria . This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most famous landmarks in Turin. It is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a must-see!
• Food tour . If you love Italian food and want to try the very best dishes, you could choose to join a food tour , patisserie tour or even take a cooking class !
• Discover the wine bars in town. The delicious wine tastings are a must-do in Italy. Turin has great choices of wine cellars and tastings to choose from. The wine is made fresh every day from the grapes of Italy. 

15. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is located in the Dolomites and is a large ski resort for locals and tourists to visit. 

It is known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites” due to the beauty of this area and where it is located in the Dolomites Heritage Center. 

This destination offers sporting activities, skiing, and history. The snow is abundant during the wintertime, which is why this is the perfect destination to ski.

It will also host the 2026 Winter Olympics so that gives you an idea of how great this place is if you are looking for a skiing holiday in Italy.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo in winter:

• Winter sport. Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the best ski resorts in Italy so winter sports are the main activities here. You’ll find hundreds of kilometres of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. If you’d rather explore at a slower pace, you can also opt for cross-country skiing.
• Take a guided tour through the Dolomites . Snowshoeing in the Dolomite Mountain with a guide is an amazing way to discover the area. They will take you through the valleys and the peaks, all while soaking in the living nature surrounding you. 
• Shop around in the Cooperativa di Cortina. You can find everything from fancy wines to winter gloves here. This shopping area has been open for over 100 years giving shoppers a high-quality experience every time. 
• Take a bus tour along the Dolomites and sightsee on your way up the mountainside. This is a fun ride to take up the mountain with gorgeous views and a bit of a drop-off on one side. Don’t be scared, these are professional tours and enjoyed by many.
• Discovering stunning views. The best viewpoints in the area are Lagazuoi, Monte Cristallo and Tofana di Rozes. They boast breath-taking views of the Dolomites.

16. Livigno

Livigno sits right on the border of Italy and Switzerland. 

The snow is endless here during the wintertime, the beautiful ski town is one to enjoy year-round with family or friends, but in the wintertime, the abundance of white snow fills the ground. 

Here are some ideas of things to do in Livigno in winter:

• The Mottolino Gondola takes you up the mountain to the top of the ski slopes. If you haven’t ridden a Gondola, I encourage you to take this fun trip up the mountain for fun or to ski. 
• Take a ski tour through the mountains with a professional guide to show you the Livigno experience.  
• Chiesa di San Rocco is a religious and historical part of Livigno. It is a small church with a lot of rich history to experience. 

Located in Northern Italy, Milan is one of the best cities to visit if you love fashion or are looking for a girls trip in Europe!

Milan is home to two airports and there are a lot of low-cost flights that go there. For this reason , it’s an excellent destination if you are on a budget and looking for a cool winter city break in Italy.

Unlike other destinations mentioned here, Milan is quite a cold place in winter. It’s very close to the Alps (which is why you can also visit it on your way to a ski resort) so temperatures tend to be under 10C.

That having been said, there are loads of indoor activities you can do and it’s nothing a good coat and hat can’t fix.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Milan in winter:

• Visiting the Duomo of Milan . Located in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Milan is the most iconic landmark in the city. As you stand in front of it, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of this unique white gothic building. To visit it, you’ll need to buy your ticket in advance . It also includes access to the rooftop terrace that boasts some of the best views of the city.
• Visiting La Scala Theatre. This is one of the most famous Opera houses in the world and no trip to Milan would be complete without visiting it. The interior is absolutely stunning!
• Discovering the Last Supper , one of Da Vinci’s most famous paintings. Yes, you’ve read that right! If you love art and are looking for the ultimate experience in Milan, then this should be on top of your bucket list. Make sure to book your ticket in advance though. It doesn’t get too crowded in winter but better to be on the safe side.

You may also be interested in:

• 15 Best Books about Italy
• What is Italy famous for? 19 Extraordinary Things Italy is known for
• 19 Best Places to Visit in Spain in Winter
• 18 Best Winter Vacations in the USA (including both snowy and warm US destinations)
• 20 Best Places To Visit in December In The World (including Winter Wonderlands & Warm destinations)

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

The Ultimate Northern Italy Itinerary: Must-See Destinations

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: November 4, 2023
• Post category: Italy

When it comes to exploring Italy , each of its regions offers something unique and captivating. In this comprehensive northern Italy itinerary guide, we’ll cast a spotlight on the enchanting northern part of the country. Whether you’re struggling to narrow down your travel options or starting from scratch in search of inspiration, this post is designed to help you craft the perfect itinerary, complete with valuable tips for navigating this fascinating region.

As someone who visits northern Italy on a regular basis, this area holds a special place in my heart. Over time, I’ve had the privilege of traversing its picturesque landscapes, savouring its delectable cuisine, and immersing myself in its rich culture. There is so much to see and do in the North of Italy that a single trip for sure may not suffice. To address this delightful dilemma, I’ve curated five distinct northern Italy itineraries (plus a suggested itinerary at the end), each catering to different interests and preferences. These itineraries are tailored for those who wish to explore the most famous locations, outdoor enthusiasts, city lovers, couples seeking romance, and avid foodies. With these options, you can experience a bit of everything that northern Italy has to offer, making it easier to compile your northern Italy bucket list.

How long should a northern Italy itinerary be

Before delving into the itineraries, let’s address a crucial question that often plagues traveler’s: How long should a northern Italy itinerary be? Ideally, a robust northern Italy itinerary should span between 10 and 14 days. If you have more time at your disposal, that’s even better. You can delve deeper into the local culture, take the slow travel route, and unearth hidden gems. On the other hand, if you have a shorter timeframe and still want to explore a variety of places, careful planning of your transportation and a jam-packed schedule of activities await you.

While I’ll recommend a particular order for the stops on the itineraries, I won’t prescribe a fixed number of days for each location. The flexibility of your travel dates and the pace of your journey should guide your choices. I’ll also sprinkle in additional tips and suggestions based on my own experiences to ensure you don’t encounter the same hiccups I did, and I’ll introduce you to extra destinations in the region that are well worth your time.

The Best Time to Visit North of Italy

Now, let’s consider the best time to visit northern Italy. As a frequent visitor of this region, I can confidently tell you that the optimal times to explore northern Italy are during the months of June and September. These months offer the perfect blend of pleasant weather, the beginning or tail end of the busy summer tourist season, and the opportunity to secure great deals on rental cars and accommodations if you book in advance. For adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, winter in the Italian Alps , during the peak ski season, is a thrilling option.

How to Move Around

Now, let’s turn our attention to the essential aspect of moving around northern Italy . This region is the most developed part of the country, making transportation readily accessible and convenient. However, northern Italy is not without its challenges, particularly when it comes to navigating the Italian Alps. While you can easily travel between cities and even towns using regional trains, crossing the mountainous terrain may limit your train options. In some cases, there may be no train connections available at all. For those planning to explore the Italian Alps, I recommend either renting a car or booking a tour that takes care of transportation during your daily activities. Another option is bus travel, which comes with its own set of challenges, such as understanding regional bus routes within a limited timeframe and a lack of flexibility when using coach buses.

Here’s a more detailed look at your transportation options in northern Italy:

Northern Italy boasts both national and regional train lines, ensuring well-connected travel between major cities and smaller towns. Trains are generally easy to navigate, making them an attractive option for tourists. While trains may not be as cost-effective as buses, they are more budget-friendly than renting a car.

Italy lacks a national bus line, so most buses are regional or city-specific. However, companies like Flixbus operate throughout the country and Europe, providing options for interregional travel.

Buses are often the most economical choice for transportation, with Flixbus tickets available for as low as €5. Nonetheless, they tend to have longer travel times. Regional buses offer access to smaller towns, while Flixbus primarily serves cities. Navigating regional or city buses can be challenging, requiring careful planning around timetables.

Opting for buses is ideal for a slower travel itinerary when you have ample time to explore Italy. This approach allows you to save money while immersing yourself in the local experience.

Embarking on an Italian road trip is a thrilling adventure, providing the opportunity to experience the country’s diverse landscapes. Renting a car in Italy offers maximum flexibility but comes at a higher cost compared to other modes of transportation.

If your itinerary involves visiting many places outside major cities or tourist hotspots, renting a car is highly recommended. Any of the itineraries discussed here can easily be transformed into a road trip, allowing you to relish the scenic beauty of Italy at your own pace. Now, let’s dive into the five enticing northern Italy itineraries designed to cater to your distinct interests and preferences:

• The Bucket List Northern Italy Itinerary:

If you’re embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Italy, this Northern Italy itinerary is tailored to your aspirations. This comprehensive route covers the five major areas on everyone’s northern Italy bucket list, including Milan , Lake Como, Cinque Terre, Venice, and the Dolomites. You can start your journey in either Milan or Venice , with both cities serving as excellent home bases for exploring the region. Spend time in Milan, venture to the enchanting Cinque Terre and Lake Como, and consider exploring additional day trip options. Subsequently, make your way to Venice, from where you can embark on a day trip to the stunning Dolomites. With a 10-day itinerary, you have the flexibility to allocate two days to each location. However, you can adapt this itinerary according to your preferences and the time you have available.

• Explore the Italian Alps:

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Italian Alps offer a breathtaking and invigorating experience. This itinerary delves into the Western Alps, including Courmayeur, Gran Paradiso National Park, and Breuil-Cervinia, followed by a journey through the Central Alps, covering Lake Como, Bergamo, and Val Brembana, and concluding with the Eastern Alps in the Dolomites . The Western Alps in Valle D’Aosta offer a unique blend of French and Italian cultures, with the stunning Mont Blanc and Matterhorn as prominent highlights. Moving through the Central Alps, you’ll be captivated by the picturesque Lake Como and the charming towns that grace its shores. A deeper exploration of Val Brembana reveals hidden treasures in the form of villages like Branzi and Cornello dei Tasso. Finally, the Eastern Alps, with their jagged grey peaks and lush valleys, make the Dolomites a must-visit destination for mountain enthusiasts.

• City-Lovers’ Paradise:

For travellers who relish the hustle and bustle of historic European cities, this itinerary presents an array of vibrant urban centers. From the bustling metropolis of Milan to the medieval charm of Bergamo, the major cities in northern Italy offer diverse landscapes and captivating experiences. The itinerary covers Milan, Turin, Bergamo, and Venice. You can choose to start in Milan, home to major airports, or consider Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport , a hub for Ryanair flights. Milan and Bergamo, while just 40 minutes apart by car, offer entirely distinct atmospheres. Milan exudes energy and excitement, while Bergamo, with its historic Città Alta, boasts a more relaxed pace of life. Continuing westward, Turin awaits, adorned with Baroque-style architecture and the iconic Mole Antonelliana. Finally, journey east to the enchanting Venice, known for its unique water-based transportation system and picturesque alleyways that beckon travelers to get lost in their beauty.

• Most Romantic Places for Couples:

Italy has long been celebrated as one of the world’s most romantic destinations, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking an amorous getaway. This Northern Italy itinerary takes you to the most enchanting and intimate locales, including Portovenere, Lake Como, Franciacorta, Verona , Lake Garda, and Venice. Portovenere, a hidden gem along the Ligurian coast, offers stunning views, a tranquil harbor, and romantic spots like Lord Byron’s Grotto and Palmeria Island. Lake Como, renowned for its luxury, features villas, alpine peaks, and the picturesque town of Bellagio. Franciacorta, nestled between Bergamo and Brescia, is a haven for wine lovers, with its sparkling wine and vineyard vistas. Further exploration in Veneto reveals Verona, the city of love, immortalized in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Lake Garda , the largest lake in Italy, boasts small, charming towns, including Sirmione and Limone sul Garda, offering an intimate atmosphere. Venice, the ultimate romantic city, beckons with gondola rides and timeless charm.

• A Foodie’s Northern Italy Itinerary:

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide, and northern Italy’s traditional dishes are a departure from the stereotypical pasta and pizza. The meals here are heartier, reflecting the lifestyles of industrial workers and the challenging winters faced by those in the Alpine regions. Additionally, northern Italy is passionate about local ingredients, resulting in a delectable array of regional specialties. Here are some of the delightful foods you can savor in each region on this itinerary:

Piemonte: Truffles Liguria: Seafood, Focaccia, and Pesto Bergamo: Polenta Bologna: Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, Parmigiano Reggiano, Mortadella, Ragù Bolognese, Balsamic Vinegar, and Lasagna , Tortellini in Brodo

The northern Italy foodie itinerary commences in Piemonte, renowned for its exquisite truffles. A fall visit is ideal, coinciding with the White Truffle Festival in Alba. To make the most of this experience, consider booking a truffle hunting tour and indulging in a Barolo wine tasting. Liguria , with its fresh seafood, delectable focaccia, and iconic pesto, awaits your palate. Don’t miss out on the trofie al pesto, a Ligurian pasta favorite. Venturing into Bergamo, you’ll encounter two regional specialties: polenta and pizzoccheri. Polenta, a versatile grain dish, comes in various forms, including Polenta Contadina, which combines cheese, spinach, and local sausage. Pizzoccheri, a unique blend of short buckwheat tagliatelle pasta, potatoes, cheese, and greens, hails from Valtellina, a valley bordering Switzerland. The final stop on this delectable journey is Bologna, the birthplace of Italian food favorites such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Mortadella, Ragù Bolognese, Balsamic Vinegar, and Lasagna. Arrive with an empty stomach to fully savor these culinary delights of this wonderful city.

If you are not sure where to start on planning your Northern Italy itinerary I have a solution for you with a suggested itinerary if you are a first timer visiting the North of Italy.

Exploring Northern Italy: A 10-Day Itinerary

Northern Italy, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for travelers. From the romantic canals of Venice to the art-filled streets of Florence, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian Lakes, Northern Italy offers a diverse range of experiences. In this article, we will take you on a 10-day journey through this enchanting region, providing you with a comprehensive Northern Italy itinerary packed with 10 incredible ideas for an unforgettable trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Milan

Your Northern Italy adventure begins in Milan, the fashion and financial capital of Italy. Upon arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport , settle into your accommodation and spend your first evening exploring the city. Take a stroll through the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, where you can admire the iconic Milan Cathedral. Don’t forget to visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , a 19th-century shopping gallery with luxurious boutiques and restaurants.

Day 2: Milan Exploration

Start your day with a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper” located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Book your tickets in advance, as this is a popular attraction. In the afternoon, explore the historic Sforza Castle and its beautiful surrounding park. Milan is also known for its fashion, so indulge in some shopping along Via Montenapoleone or Corso Buenos Aires.

Day 3: Venice – The City of Canals

Leave Milan behind and take a train to the enchanting city of Venice and begin your exploration of this unique city built on water. Start with a visit to St. Mark’s Square and the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica. Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and explore the charming streets of Venice.

Day 4: Venice Islands

Spend a day exploring the beautiful islands surrounding Venice. Take a Vaporetto (water bus) to Murano , famous for its glass-blowing traditions, and then proceed to Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making heritage. Finally, visit Torcello, home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Attila’s Throne, where you can enjoy the tranquility of this island paradise

Day 5: Verona and Juliet’s Balcony

Leave Venice and travel to Verona, the city of love. Explore the well-preserved Roman arena, where you can catch an opera performance if you visit during the opera season. Don’t miss a visit to Juliet’s House, with its iconic balcony. Take a romantic stroll along the Adige River and enjoy a meal in one of Verona’s charming restaurants.

Day 6: Lake Garda

Head to Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, surrounded by picturesque villages and stunning landscapes. Spend your day in the town of Sirmione, known for its thermal baths and Scaliger Castle. Take a dip in the lake’s crystal-clear waters and savor delicious Italian gelato as you enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Day 7: Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Say goodbye to Lake Garda and board a train to Florence, the heart of the Renaissance. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo and Botticelli. Stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, don’t miss a visit to the Florence Cathedral.

Day 8: Florence’s Art and Culture

Dedicate a full day to Florence’s art and culture. Explore the magnificent Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and its stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David, and then wander through the Boboli Gardens. In the evening, savor Tuscan cuisine in a local trattoria.

Day 9: Tuscany Day Trip

While in Florence , you can’t miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Take a day trip to the charming towns of Siena and San Gimignano. In Siena, visit the Piazza del Campo and the stunning Siena Cathedral. In San Gimignano, admire the medieval towers that dot the skyline and enjoy local wines and cuisine.

Day 10: Milan Departure

End your 10-day Northern Italy itinerary by returning to Milan for your departure. If time allows, visit the Brera district to explore its art gallery and charming streets. Before leaving, savour a last Italian meal, perhaps in one of Milan’s top-rated restaurants.

A trip to Northern Italy offers a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling city life of Milan to the romantic canals of Venice, the cultural richness of Florence, and the serene beauty of Lake Garda. This 10-day itinerary provides a perfect balance of history, culture, and natural beauty, allowing you to make the most of your visit to this enchanting region.

In conclusion, northern Italy is a captivating and diverse region, offering a rich tapestry of experiences, from breathtaking mountains and tranquil lakes to vibrant cities and delectable cuisine. While it’s challenging to encompass all of its wonders in a single trip, I hope these itineraries provide you with the inspiration and guidance you need to craft your dream northern Italy adventure. You can customize these itineraries based on your interests, time frame, and preferred pace of travel. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a romantic at heart, northern Italy has something special to offer, and these itineraries are your key to unlocking its treasures.

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How to Plan an Incredible Northern Italy Trip

Would you like to plan a northern Italy trip? Well, you’re in for a trip of a lifetime!

With so much to see, do, and experience, though, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about how to spend your precious days in northern Italy!

This guide has everything you need to plan northern Italy travel, from the beginning research steps to the necessary pre-departure steps to take for a successful trip.

Ready to start planning? Andiamo!

1. Planning Northern Italy Travel: What to Do First

As you think of planning a trip to Italy, you may be wondering if it’s worth visiting only northern Italy.

After all, “il Bel Paese” has so many incredible places to visit from north to south!

Northern Italy has a rich history, culture, and so many beautiful places to explore, experience, and enjoy. You can hardly go for more than a short drive or distance without passing local restaurants serving the most amazing specialty you’ll ever taste or charming towns with can’t-miss historic centers!

Spectacular panoramic views stretch as far as you can see from the Adriatic Sea to the mountain ranges of the Alps, the Mediterranean, and the beautiful cities in Emilia Romagna. Major cities from Turin to Milan and Venice and the surrounding areas have historic buildings like the Palazzo Madama and Palazzo Reale in Turin to the numerous castles and historic sites waiting to be discovered in the hills, alongside the lakes, and in the mountains.

The best way to plan a trip to Italy is to focus on specific regions instead of trying to crisscross the country. In addition to the amazing sites, food, people, art, and natural beauty, you don’t want to miss out on “la dolce vita!”

You want your itinerary to include time to enjoy simple moments, like the pleasure that comes with sipping a cappuccino in a quiet piazza overlooking a lake, strolling through a market with a gelato cone, or sitting seaside as the day trippers leave watching the sun dip closer to the horizon.

Northern Italy allows for all of this and more! You can check off must-sees, discover hidden gems, and experience a small slice of the Italian lifestyle.

Travel in northern Italy is always a good idea!

It depends more on your preferences, where you’d like to visit, and what you’d like to do. For example, a city-hopping sightseeing trip can be better in the spring, fall, and even winter because the temperatures (even chillier winter temps) are more pleasant for walking around than during what can be the sweltering heat of summer. Not to mention sights and museums tend to be less crowded and great spots to escape an off-weather day. Whereas if you want to ski in the Alps or lounge beachside in the Italian Riviera, the season to visit will be more fixed.

If you don’t have travel flexibility (i.e. we must travel in summer because the kids are on summer break), consider the general weather of each season and plan your perfect northern Italy itinerary accordingly. Traveling in summer but want to avoid the heat? Plan time in the mountains of the Dolomites or the Valle d’Aosta. Prefer water to mountains? Retreat to the sea in the Italian Riviera or northern Italy’s beautiful Lakes Region.

I’ve spent time in Italy during every season, multiple times. I would recommend you consider spring or fall if your schedule allows. These seasons offer the best combination of pleasant weather, pricing, and the number of visitors.

Below is an outline of each season. I’ve included a sampling of the things you can see and do in northern Italy during these months, as well as some general tips to help as you plan your trip.

December-February: Generally, winter in northern Italy comes with cooler temperatures and fewer travelers sightseeing. This makes it easier to book tickets for popular attractions like the Doge’s Palace in Venice or the Last Supper painting in Milan and less expensive to book flights and hotels.

In December, lights and decorations sparkle in cities like Turin, while the Christmas markets in places like Bolzano and Milan add to the festivities. Carnevale is celebrated in February and is most famous in Venice. Not only do prices rise during this time, but it also may not be the best time to visit the city if you don’t intend to take part in the festivities. Snow sports abound in Italy’s stunning Alps in the Dolomites and the Valle d’Aosta while the beach towns in the Cinque Terre will be quiet with some restaurants and hotels closed for the season.

March-May: As spring arrives so do more pleasant temperatures. Keep in mind that Alpine resort towns and the surrounding mountains are chillier than lower elevations and largely still in winter ski mode. But elsewhere, flowers begin to bloom and the rolling hills once again turn to green.

That being said, spring is an ideal time to visit northern Italy, especially if you’re hoping to blend time between city sightseeing and natural wonders. Hotels and restaurants re-open along the Ligurian coast and in the Lakes Region. In particular, it can be a great time to visit the Cinque Terre to hike the famous coastal trail because the temperatures are moderate and the trails still largely quiet compared to the crowds of summer.

It’s smart to prepare for any potential rainy days, but typically these days are mixed in with plenty of days of sun.

June-August: Summer is Italy’s peak travel season, and the north is no exception. With high season, expect pricing for flights, hotels, and rental cars to match the demand, as well as for popular sights and places to be at their busiest. Temperatures will be warm to hot so it’s best to pace any city explorations and better yet, mix in days near the water or in the mountains.

The summer months are also the time of year when many Italians take time off for vacation. Coastal towns are a hive for beachside activities and lounging. Hotels and other accommodations, especially, book up quickly in these areas. Aside from beaches along northern Italy’s eastern and western coastlines, places like Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore also offer a waterside retreat and outdoor activities. It’s also the best time to road trip and hike in the spectacular Dolomites in Italy’s northeastern corner.

September-November: Similar to spring, fall can also be a perfect time to plan a trip to northern Italy. Temperatures are mild, with crisp nights as you get deeper into the season. If you love Italian food and wine (and who doesn’t?!?), fall is for you! In Piedmont, the grapes are ready to harvest and truffles are in season. The oranges, reds, and yellows of fall can be enjoyed whether you’re visiting the Lakes, city hopping through Emilia-Romagna, or visiting castles and Roman ruins in the Aosta Valley.

September is also nice for a little bonus beach time. The waters of the Mediterranean Seas are still warm and the days have plenty of sunshine. Even better, accommodation prices cool and the crowds begin to thin in many of these coastal regions

As with spring, rain is possible but with enough blue-sky days to make your time in northern Italy unforgettable.

What’s on Your Travel Northern Italy Bucket List?

In this beginning phase of travel planning, determine which regions and places you’d like to visit during your northern Italy trip. It’s not necessary to limit yourself yet or make any final itinerary decisions. Use resources like travel blogs, northern Italy guidebooks , Pinterest, and Instagram to inspire you. Facebook Groups are good for asking questions and getting tips and ideas.

Spend time getting to know the 8 regions of northern Italy . Each one has its own history, culture, dialect, cuisine, and landscape to discover!

Discover the best places to visit in northern Italy through lists like these and then spend time looking up the places that catch your eye. Even if you already have an idea of the places you’d like to go to in northern Italy, take a little time to research. Oftentimes, hidden gems are hiding in plain sight just near some of the area’s most famous towns and sights! Including a few of these gems is the key to eventually planning a one-of-a-kind trip to northern Italy.

Visas & Passports

Italy is part of the European Union and is a member of the Schengen Area. If you aren’t a citizen of the European Union, you will need a passport to enter Italy. Now is the time to make sure your passport is valid and not damaged if you don’t have a passport or haven’t used yours in a while. If need be, apply or renew now.

Please beware that your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months from when you enter Italy. It may be possible to enter Italy with slightly less passport validity (i.e. 5 months), however, it’s not something to be left to chance. In addition, you should have at least 2 blank pages in your passport booklet.

If you are a citizen of the U.S, Canada, the U.K, Australia, or New Zealand, you are allowed to stay in Italy for 90 days in any 180-day period. Through 2022 and into 2023, citizens of these countries can enter Italy with just a valid passport. Beginning in November 2023, citizens of these visa-free countries will need to apply for an ETIAS, which is not a visa, but rather a travel authorization application.

The form will be filled out online and processed immediately. You need a valid passport, an email address, and a debit or credit card to pay the 7 Euros for the application fee. Once issued, your ETIAS will be valid for 3 years or when your passport expires, if that occurs first.

Passport and visa information is always subject to change. Please use this website to confirm the requirements for your country. If you are a citizen of one of the countries below, I’ve included your country’s travel guidelines page which is also good to look at for the latest entry requirements.

• U.S. Citizens
• Canada Citizens
• U.K. Citizens

Northern Italy Trip Budget

Travel budgets are subjective, based on each person’s travel style, must-sees and dos, as well as seasonality. Obviously, the number of days you plan to spend in northern Italy also plays an important role in understanding how much money you can spend each day.

The cost of flights tends to be closely linked to seasonality and holidays. Busier seasons like summer or around school vacations tend to bump up the cost of airfare. But with a little flexibility, even traveling just a month out from the summer season, you can find airfares for much less during these times when the demand has gone down.

Airfare sites like Google Flights , Momondo , and Skyscanner do a great job of finding the best-priced flights. Google Flights also has a calendar view when you click on the field to enter your travel dates. The calendar will drop down and show the lowest price fares across many months so you can get an idea of what flights to northern Italy cost compared to the dates you’re considering.

You can find a range of accommodation pricing in Northern Italy, from extravagant luxury hotels on the shores of Lake Como or in the Italian Riviera’s Positano to budget-friendly B&Bs in the many small towns and villages that dot the countryside.

Once you move away from bigger cities, food costs also tend to be more affordable.

As you work out what your Italy trip budget might be, it’ll also help you better focus on the things you really want to see and do. While this may not sound great, it definitely is! Budgeting helps you manage your trip money and helps you avoid a very typical travel mistake…an overpacked itinerary!

2. Northern Italy Itinerary Planning & Booking

This is the time to decide where in northern Italy you would like to go and to outline how long your itinerary will be.

As tempting as it is to try and see “everything,” think of it this way. North Italy is more than 46,000 square miles, with countless cities, towns, sights, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And don’t forget the Alps, the lakes, the beaches along the Italian Riviera, and the rolling hills of vineyards. For a visual, check out this detailed map of northern Italy complete with lakes, cities, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

If you’re planning a 7-day northern Italy itinerary, then you’ll want to try to limit yourself to 2 places as “bases.” You can certainly day trip from these places to see more but you’ll have a much more comfortable pace, as well as time to adequately experience a place, by not changing accommodations each day.

With extra time, like 10 days in northern Italy, 14 days in northern Italy, or more, your options for what’s possible expand.

Instead of day tripping to Lake Como or Lake Garda, you can stay in one of the many beautiful lakeside towns and perhaps also discover Lake Maggiore, Isola Bella, and Lake Orta.

One day to the Cinque Terre villages like Monterosso al Mare can become multiple days to enjoy the more off-the-beaten-path (but no less spectacular) villages along the Mediterranean coastline.

A day in the Italian Alps can become a mini road trip to drool over the breathtaking mountain scenery.

For a quick reference, consider these northern Italy itinerary tips. The suggested number of days is the minimum in order to avoid really rushing from place to place. Add more days if you plan to day trip from these points.

Venice : 2 days to explore and enjoy the city, more if you’d like to see any of the small islands or take a day trip to nearby places like Verona or Lake Garda.

Milan : 2 days in Milan to explore beyond the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Last Supper painting.

Lake Como or Lake Garda : At least, 2-3 days at each lake to village-hop and enjoy the countless sights and activities around the lakes.

Cinque Terre : With 2 days, you can move at a comfortable pace among the 5 villages. If you stay longer, you can visit hidden gems like Portovenere.

Turin : 2 days in Turin gives you the chance to see the city’s top sights, including the Royal Palaces and the view from the top of the Mole.

Bologna : You’ll need at least 2 days to see and eat your way through Bologna!

Dolomites : At least 3 days, if you plan to hike, and base yourself in 1 area like in the Val Gardena/Ortisei area. It’s possible to road trip 5-7 days in just the Dolomites, if you’re also hoping to hike and enjoy the mountain villages and lakes into the Cortina d’Ampezzo area.

Regardless of how long your northern Italy itinerary is, the area’s food, culture, history, landscapes, people, and language will absolutely capture your heart!

Getting to Northern Italy

There are several major airports in northern Italy . Milan’s Malpensa Airport is the busiest, with flights arriving from within Italy and from many points around the world. Venice’s Marco Polo airport also has international flights, including seasonal routes operated from cities in the U.S. and Canada.

There are also airports in cities like Turin, Bergamo, Genoa, Bologna, Verona, and even another Milan airport that services flights from many European cities.

The great thing about so many airports in the north of Italy is the ability to fly into 1 airport and out of another airport. This not only maximizes your time by avoiding needless backtracking to your original airport but also the price usually isn’t that much more when you factor in transportation costs to return to your original airport.

When to Book Your Flight to Northern Italy

Generally, for flights to Italy you want to book 4-12 months in advance. If you’re traveling in summer, around a holiday period, or have no flexibility with your travel dates, book as far in advance as you can.

Tools like Google Flights have the calendar view mentioned above and airlines generally open their schedules 331 days in advance. That means at the end of August, can see prices for flights to Milan the following June. Google Flights also has helpful tools like their “Date Grid” and “Price Graph” to help you see which dates are the cheapest to fly. Sometimes one small change can result in big savings.

Skyscanner and Momondo are also great places to search. They are flight aggregators, which means they are looking for the cheapest prices and not favoring results they themselves are selling.

Hopper is a travel app that also has great flight data. Hopper analyzes data and will tell you whether you should book now or wait.

Regardless of where you search, be sure to use an incognito or private browser tab and clear your cookies and computer cache regularly. If you’ve searched often and noticed that prices have gone up, consider switching devices. For example, use a spouse’s computer or your phone instead to see if the original price will re-appear.

Lastly, it’s typically cheaper to fly into Milan compared to Rome. So even if your trip to Italy includes places further south, it likely makes sense to start your itinerary in northern Italy.

Train Travel to Northern Italy

The northern regions of Italy are well-connected by trains from cities all over Europe. A potential benefit to arriving by train is not having to position yourself from an airport but rather to start in the exact place you need, like Turin or Trieste.

If you are coming from another point in Europe, use a tool like Omio to help piece together your route. Keep in mind that the further out you book your train tickets, the less the price will be. Prices rise the closer to the departure date you are. In addition, some popular train routes can also sell out. So, if you need to travel by train on a specific day, book in advance to ensure the seats are available.

Traveling in Northern Italy

Trains are also a convenient way to get around Italy. High-speed rails connect cities like Turin, Milan, Bologna, Venice, and Trieste. Regional trains make it easy to reach places like Lake Como, Asti, Modena, Trento, Brescia, and Bergamo. If your northern Italy itinerary is solely in cities and bigger towns, it’s not only possible to rely solely on trains to travel through the region but the most hassle-free option.

Once again, Omio makes it easy to search and book train tickets. Download their app and store all your tickets on your mobile device. You can access the ticket with its barcode for the conductor to scan regardless of whether you have an internet connection or not.

Renting a Car in Italy

With a car, you’ll have more flexibility to explore the countryside and dictate your own timetable. And if you have your sights on road tripping in the Dolomites or through the Aosta Valley or enjoying the wines and truffles in Piedmont’s rolling hills , you will absolutely need to rent a car.

Driving in Italy is relatively simple. Highways and roads are well-maintained and fueling stations can be easily located.

Here are a few Italy driving tips to keep in mind.

To drive in Italy, you need to have an International Driver’s License . For U.S. citizens, you can easily get one through AAA by showing your U.S. driver’s license and having a passport photo taken. The license is good for 1 year and is valid in many countries around the world.

To be clear, rental car agencies will allow you to rent a vehicle without this international license. However, if you get stopped on the road and don’t have one, you may incur a steep fine. In my experience, it’s arbitrary and depends on who pulls you over.

Manual transmissions are the norm so when renting a car be sure to select an automatic transmission if you need it. Automatic transmission vehicles typically cost more to rent.

When choosing a car, go with the smallest option that makes sense for your needs. Even in cities, roads can be no more than the width of an alley, not to mention it’s much easier to find parking for a smaller car, too.

To save the most money on a car rental, track your reservation with Autoslash . They will search for a better price (whether you booked through Kayak or directly with a rental car company) right up until the day you pick up the car. If they find a better price, you can cancel your first reservation and rebook at the better price. For this rental car hack to work, make sure your original reservation has free cancellation.

Autostradas charge tolls. Typically, you take a ticket from the toll booth when you enter the highway. Upon exiting, you insert your ticket into the toll booth machine and pay the amount on the screen. You can pay in Euros or by credit card. Lanes have symbols for coins and credit cards so you know which form of payment is accepted.

If you’re driving in a city, beware of ZTLs, or Zona Traffico Limitato. These are areas regulated by cameras and local authorities where only cars with a specific permit can drive in these areas. These are often historic city centers and tight residential areas where the municipality wants to control congestion. Driving in these ZTLs comes with a fine so avoid them at all costs.

Where to Stay in Northern Italy

You’ll find all manners of accommodations in northern Italy, from hotels, B&Bs, apartment and house rentals, as well as unique agriturismo countryside properties. Fortunately, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets. And while not all northern Italy accommodations need to be booked months and months in advance, hotels, in particular, do raise prices the closer it gets to the check-in date.

In larger cities, like Milan, Turin, and Venice, you’ll have plenty of accommodation options. Unless you have a specific property where you want to stay, you can comfortably book stays with less lead time.

It’s much more important to book your accommodation in advance in smaller towns, especially in touristy areas. Villages along Lake Como and Lake Garda, as well as in the Italian Riviera (Cinque Terre, Portofino, etc.) have only so many available places to stay. Book in these places as early as you can!

The same is true if you’re traveling to northern Italy for a particular event or holiday. For example, if you want to be Piemonte for the fall wine and truffle season events, then you’ll want to book at least a few months in advance.

Use sites like Hotels.com , Booking.com , VRBO , and Plum Guide to research and find the right properties for your trip.

Sightseeing and Day Tours

It’s also important to plan how and when you’ll visit the sights and places on your northern Italy itinerary. While it’s possible to book some things as you go, there are popular sights and tours that need to be booked in advance. You’ll also avoid long lines that eat up time and are no fun to stand in, especially in the sweltering summer heat.

Get Your Guide makes it super easy to search for tours, activities, and entry tickets. Plus, you can store all of your activities in the Get Your Guide app for easy access to your booking. Even better, all bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For northern Italy specifically, Milan and Venice have a few specific sights to get tickets to in advance.

Milan Cathedral and Rooftop Ticket : Get access to all areas of Milan’s famous Duomo without needing to wait in long ticket lines.

Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper Painting: To see this painting, you must book ahead of time. Slots are limited and fill up sometimes months in advance. While you can get Last Supper tickets directly, this tour is much easier to book and gives you skip-the-line access with an expert guide. More info in this guide about all the ways to get tickets for the Last Supper.

Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Day Trip : This popular day trip from Milan gives you the opportunity to spend a full day at Lake Como exploring a few of the beautiful villages along the shores. While this trip may not sell out as quickly as the activities above, if you have a specific day slotted for a day trip to Lake Como in your itinerary, be sure to book it in advance.

Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Admission Ticket : Skip the line by heading straight to the entry for those with reserved tickets and explore this incredible palace.

St. Mark’s Basilica : There are several options for getting tickets to St. Mark’s including going to the official website , as well as a popular combination tour together with the Doge’s Palace. Either way, you want to book in advance because this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see while in Venice!

3. Pre-Departure Checklist

With all of the big things like flights and accommodations booked, this phase is all about the things you’ll want to plan in the weeks leading up to your trip to northern Italy.

Pay attention to the tips about packing and money discussed below. If there’s anything you need to get, allow for the time it will take for those things to arrive.

The season you travel to Italy will, of course, determine the types of clothes you need for your trip. Be mindful that Cathedrals and other religious sites often require shoulders and legs to the knee to be covered. If you’re traveling in summer, a simple scarf or wrap will suffice. Knee-length skirts or dresses, as well as convertible pants, are also easy ways to stay cool and respect the rules.

And it is certainly easier said than done, but when you’re packing less is truly more. Maneuvering big, heavy bags on and off trains, along cobblestone, and into small B&Bs with perhaps no elevator is not fun. If you’re renting a car, larger suitcases can be too big for small cars.

This is the suitcase I use for trips to northern Italy up to 2 weeks long. With the help of rolling my clothes and storing them in these compression packing cubes , I can pack everything I need.

My carry-on backpack has some personal essentials and my electronics like my laptop, camera, and lenses.

No matter what season visit northern Italy, here are a few things you’ll want to pack.

Plug Adapter – Pack type “C” adapters. Type “F” adapters may also come in handy in some older buildings. A universal plug can convert both. Power Strip – Great for charging multiple devices at the same time. The best ones also include USB ports. Perfect if you already have a single plug adapter and want to be able to charge multiple devices. Battery Pack – Make sure your phone or camera has enough power to get through a full day with heavy use. Comfortable Walking Shoes – Regardless of the season, you’ll be walking a lot! Historic towns and cities have cobblestones and a lot of uneven pavement. Water Bottle – You can safely drink the water in Italy. There are refilling points in cities, towns, and popular tourist areas like the Cinque Terre. Day Bag/Pack – Easy to tuck into your suitcase or carry-on and perfect for carrying around the day’s essentials. Face Mask – In Italy, you still must wear quality masks like a KN95 or better on public transportation like trains and buses. You may also be asked to wear one in other situations, as well.

Airport Transfers

The northern Italy airports are well-connected so whether you want to take a train , bus , private car, or even water transfer (from Venice’s Airport), you have options. You can also rent a car and begin a northern Italy road trip. Whichever transportation suits your plans best, research all the details and book ahead whenever possible to make the transfer from the airport to the city as smooth as you can.

For many international arrivals, Milan’s Malpensa Airport and Venice’s Marco Polo Airport are likely to be the entry point into northern Italy. Below, there are some quick at-a-glance tips, as well as links to detailed guides for arranging your airport transfer.

Milan Malpensa is 30+ miles from the center of Milan. The Malpensa Express is a train that runs between Terminal 1 at the airport to Piazza Cadorna and Milano Centrale. Piazza Cadorna is in central Milan, not far from Castello Sforzesco and Santa Maria delle Grazie, the place where Da Vinci’s Last Supper painting is displayed. Milano Centrale is the main train station with high-speed and regional trains running to cities and towns throughout Italy.

The Malpensa Express train is the best option for your time and budget. As you make your plan to get from Milan Malpensa to the city center, use this guide to learn more about the Malpensa Express and all of your options in fuller detail.

Venice’s Marco Polo Airport is a few miles north of Venice’s city center. It’s important to figure out the details of your transfer from the airport to the city center particularly if your hotel is not on the Grand Canal. Venice can be very confusing to walk around and the signs sometimes are more frustrating than helpful, especially when you’ve got your luggage…in the heat of summer!

The Alilaguna water buses run from the airport to Piazza San Marco. Overland express ATVO buses and taxis run to Piazzale Roma and from there you can take the vaporetto (water bus) to the city center. You can also book a private water taxi directly to your hotel. Keep in mind this is the most expensive of the options. To split the difference between cost and comfort, you can arrange a shared water taxi instead.

Use this guide to plan your transfer from Venice’s Marco Polo Airport to the city center .

Learn a Few Basic Italian Phrases

It always helps to know a few basic phrases in the local language when you travel and Italy is no different. No one expects travelers to speak fluent Italian but when you try, it signals respect which is always appreciated.

Here are some Italian words and phrases to start with.

Buongiorno = Hello Ciao = Hello or Goodbye (informal) Grazie (mille) = Thank you (very much) Per favore = Please Prego = You’re welcome (Italians also use this word to mean “please,” as in please, come in or please, sit down.) Il Conto = the bill/check Non parlo l’Italiano = I don’t speak Italian Si/No = Yes/No Arrivederci = Goodbye Tutto a posto / Tutto bene = Everything is fine/good.

If you’d like to learn more, download the Google Translate app and download the Italian language to your phone. You’ll be able to make translations even if you’re offline. It can also be helpful to have a good Italian phrase book to help with specific situations.

Italy uses the Euro as its currency. It’s best to withdraw Euros with your Debit Card once you’re in Italy, just not at your arrival point like at an airport. These usually have some of the worst exchange rates. Once you arrive at your accommodations, find a bank with an ATM to take cash out.

Debit cards with a pin can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs. In some cases, like at a self-pay gas station, you can only use a card that is PIN-enabled. If your credit card doesn’t also have a PIN for these instances, your Debit Card can serve as the backup.

ProTip: For extra bank account security when you travel, consider opening a Schwab bank account. Not only does it reimburse you for ATM fees, but you can also use this account to put just some money for travel. If your debit card gets stolen or skimmed, the thief only has access to the money in that account instead of everything in your regular account.

In many places, especially in cities and larger towns, credit cards are also widely accepted. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express cards are typically ok, however, it’s best to travel with more than 1 type of credit card. For example, bring a Visa card and an American Express card to ensure you have a backup in case one isn’t accepted.

In addition to the types of cards, be sure your credit card does NOT charge foreign exchange fees. For example, the popular Chase Sapphire Preferred does not charge these fees but the Chase Freedom Unlimited does.

When using your credit card, always opt to pay in Euros instead of your local currency. You’ll avoid the worst exchange rates and baked-in convenience fees by doing so.

In small towns and villages, it’s best to have some cash on hand in case there’s a cash-only shop or cafe.

ProTip: It’s a good idea to alert your bank that your Debit Card may be used overseas. However, many traveler favorite credit cards like the Sapphire Preferred or an American Express Gold Card can be used internationally without any advance notice.

We all know how important cell phones and connectivity are, whether it’s to look up directions to a location, access online tickets and reservations, or send a text message. So it goes without saying, you need to stay connected even when you’re traveling in northern Italy whether you’re in a big city or the countryside.

Wireless carriers often have international data plans but these are pricey, often charging a flat rate per 24-hour period and slowing your speed if you go over a set amount of data.

If you have an unlocked cell phone, you can purchase a SIM card intended for travelers. I’ve used TIM & Vodafone while traveling in Italy. You can typically find them at transportation hubs like airports and train stations, but you can also buy them in cell phone shops and even online prior to your trip. Expect reliable 4G coverage with some 5G in larger cities.

Depending on your phone model, you may also be able to get an e-SIM. Providers like OneSim sell both physical and e-SIM cards. The great thing about the e-SIM is that you don’t need a physical card. Instead, you download the e-SIM just as you would for an app. Only newer model phones are compatible so be sure to check you have the right phone.

Regardless of what type of SIM you buy, if you purchase it through a company outside of Italy, make sure Italy is included in the list of countries with coverage.

Another option is a portable Wi-Fi device. This allows you to create your own hotspot and connect multiple devices. This can be a great solution for families or if you want a secure connection for your laptop. If you’re staying in a countryside rental home, a portable Wi-Fi brings peace of mind that you’ll have a connection.

Some car rental companies, like Hertz, rent these devices for a flat rate per day. And while this may seem not much better than your wireless carrier’s international plan, it actually is. For starters, data isn’t capped so there’s no slow down of speeds. Second, you can connect multiple devices.

If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s more cost-effective to purchase your own portable Wi-Fi device. Companies like GlocalME and Huawei products are solid options to consider.

Time Zones & Jet Lag

Italy has only 1 time zone, Central European Time. Central European Summer Time is used when Daylight Savings is in effect. With only a couple of exceptions, this means Italy is 6 hours ahead of New York City’s Eastern Standard Time. Italy’s Daylight Savings calendar is slightly different than the U.S. so for a couple of weeks in the year, the 6-hour time difference is affected.

Chances are you have just 1-2 weeks for your northern Italy trip. You don’t want jet lag to cost you precious days.

Here are a few basic tips to help you manage, and possibly, avoid jet lag.

24-48 hours before your trip, start to be aware of what time it is in Italy. If you can, eat a meal as if you are already in Italy.

Get up early on your departure day. It’s likely your flight to Italy (when coming from the U.S. or Canada) is at night. The more tired you are when you finally board the plane, the more likely it is you’ll sleep on the flight.

Try to sleep even a little bit on the flight. Even a couple of hours will help!

Plan a full and active first day, preferably with walking and outdoor activities like visiting the roof of Milan’s Duomo or getting lost on foot in Venice’s labryinth of alleyways. Take rests to eat when the locals do and stay up as late as you can, but at least to a regular bedtime hour.

Plan Your First Day in Full

When you’re planning an itinerary for your northern Italy trip, it makes sense to leave some flexibility for when you stumble upon the cutest countryside village ever or just want to have a few extra cappuccinos at the cafe in the piazza.

But that’s not for the first day.

From the moment you land, you need a plan. Know where you will go once you’ve collected your luggage and how you’re getting there. If you need train tickets or to arrange a private airport transfer, have this pre-arranged (if possible).

After this, have a plan for what you want to see and do. If you need to get tickets or arrange an activity, book it in advance.

Consider making a reservation for dinner, too. Reach out to your hotel for assistance if you need or use a website like The Fork to make restaurant reservations online. (Not all restaurants are available for online booking so if you don’t find what you’re looking for, do a broader search for your area using Google.)

Having a solid plan for your first day reduces stress, helps to maximize your time, fights jet lag, and gets your northern Italy vacation off to a successful start! It’s an absolute win-win!

Traveling Northern Italy…

…is an absolute dream! With research and time, you can plan a trip to northern Italy that includes must-see sights, hidden gems, and unique local experiences.

By specifically focusing on the regions in the north, your northern Italy travel itinerary will be about sightseeing, of course, but also about the amazing discoveries and experiences that only come from a one-of-a-kind itinerary away from crowded touristy hotspots.

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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Italy in Winter: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

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Morning scene of Dolomite alps in Italy

Winter in Italy is an exciting time to explore the variety of landscapes, cities, and towns, and we share insight into the weather, the best places to visit, and the top experiences you can enjoy.

Whether visiting the country in December or looking for ideas on Rome in winter, you can settle into its exciting ambiance and treasured traditions as you uncover skiing in the north, hiking in the south, or seasonal cuisine in the famous culinary center.

Find information on the weather or discover what to do in Italy in January so you know what to expect on a trip personalized to your preferences.

Weather in Italy in December, January, and February

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Domes of the Twin Churches in Rome, Italy

Average Temperatures in Rome, Italy: 55°F High • 39°F Low

Winter in Italy can be cold, but the weather varies greatly between the mountainous northern terrain of the alps and the Mediterranean climate of the south, especially around Sicily and Puglia’s southern heel.

The diverse climate offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities when enjoying an Italy vacation in December to view the best Christmas markets in Italy or when embracing the hot springs around Tuscany in February.

From vineyards to snow trekking, skiing to discovering seasonal truffles to try during your Italy trip , the country’s weather is diverse and welcoming, with endless activities to enjoy.

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View of Mount Etna from Taormina in Sicily, Italy

Naples • Best Place for Great Weather

Naples is a sensational place to visit in Italy, often used as a gateway to renowned Amalfi Coast tours or visits to Pompeii. Journeying to the region in winter removes the summer crowds, turning the iconic destination into a quiet seaside escape brimming with historic charm.

While not great for lounging on the sand, Naples and the surrounding bay offer consistent and comfortable weather in which you can embrace the museums, walk along the cobblestone streets, visit the fabled and colorful towns, trek the infamous Path of the Gods trail for incredible views across the water, or bask in seasonal festivities celebrating the wonders of Christmas.

Learn more: How to Spend 2 Weeks in Southern Italy

Rome • Best Place for Families with Children

On a fun and unique Italy Christmas tour , travelers can embrace the excitement of Rome, especially in December and January, when the Christmas markets are at their peak in the lead-up to the Epiphany on January 6.

With fewer visitors than in summer and fall, winter offers a great time to navigate the ancient ruins, wander the cobblestone boulevards, and visit the famous museums, from the Sistine Chapel to the preserved sculptures in the Capitoline Museums.

Enjoy the comfort of restaurants, embrace the flavors of local dishes, and learn the art of training like a gladiator when you visit Rome as a family .

Learn more: Rome Travel Guide • Italy Family Vacations & Tour Packages

Bologna • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Bologna is filled with exciting history and tantalizing flavors, giving it the nickname La Grassa , or The Fat One. While not completely off the beaten path, the city is a great escape from its popular counterparts and in winter demonstrates an enticing ambiance.

With aromas of delicious seasonal cuisine often found in the best dishes to try while in Bologna to grand Christmas markets, opulent porticoes, and outgoing locals interacting on an evening stroll, Bologna is enticing in winter.

Learn more: 3 Exclusive Itineraries to Emilia Romagna

Venice • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Venice is iconic and one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. In winter, the summer crowds are gone, the cool air offers a more comfortable ambiance in which to explore, and the seasonal festivities stretch from Christmas traditions to Carnivale.

From gondola rides to exploring Piazza San Marco, shopping to glass-blowing demonstrations, the city feels much more open in winter, making anything possible. Embrace the romance of an opera, capture the perfect image of your trip with a private photo shoot, or delight your taste buds with a celebrated cioccolato caldo as you indulge in the timeless romance of Venice in winter.

Learn more: Venice Vacations & Tour Packages • Venice Travel Guide

Sicily • Best Italian Island to Visit

Sicily is Italy’s largest island and its southern position makes it comfortable to visit in winter. While not necessarily warm enough to lounge on the beaches, the island offers an incredible array of places to discover and activities to enjoy.

Whether viewing the gilded Byzantine mosaics of the Norman Palace or walking beneath the towering figure of a Greek temple at Agrigento, sampling the delicious chocolate in the hilltop town of Erice or skiing on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, Sicily is a marvel of experiences in winter.

Learn more: Sicily Tours & Vacation Packages • Sicily Travel Guide

Italian wine tasting in Tuscany

Explore Ancient Rome Deeply

The ancient world and contemporary life converge in Rome, the capital of the former empire and modern-day Italy. Embrace the journey through time as you wander through iconic monuments to the past like the Colosseum, uncover hidden Raphael frescoes at the edge of a chic neighborhood, or indulge in cuisine that embodies the culinary traditions of Italian heritage.

From old-world wonders to trendy boutique shops, you can find the right experience for you with our top things to do in Rome .

Learn more: Rome Vacations & Tour Packages

Enjoy the Flavors of Regional Cuisine

Italy is famous for its cuisine and during your trip you can quickly find how each region celebrates its history and seasonality with local flavors, recipes, and ingredients. From Veneto to Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna to Sicily, the diverse landscapes and weather patterns affect the historical crops grown near the main cities, giving way to exquisite dishes known for their powerful flavors.

Whether eager to sample mouthwatering ravioli or a traditional bistecca fiorentina, ready for a traditional plate of cacio e pepe or searching for an authentic gelato, embracing the regional cuisine is one of the joys of a trip, especially when explored during an Italy food tour and vacation .

Learn more: Types of Italian Food by Region

Discover the Joys of a Christmas Market

Italy’s Christmas markets have become famous for their jovial ambiance, celebratory nature, and reflection of traditional culture. The market vendors may change based on the region, with woodwork and strudel more common in alpine towns and cities, contrasting the roasted chestnuts and customary charcuterie of southern towns.

During your Italy winter tour, you can visit the markets to enjoy the thriving cultural representation of the season and traditions like La Befana , a witch who brings good children treats on January 6, the day of the Epiphany, marking the end of the Christmas season in Italy.

Learn more: Top 5 Reasons to Spend Christmas in Italy

Sip Delicious Wines with Local Vintners

Wine is part of the heritage in Italy, with a history dating back to before the Roman Empire. With over two millennia of grape cultivation and wine production across the peninsula, discovering the country’s vineyards, vintners, and cellars offers fabulous results, defying singular definitions of the flavors, textures, and characteristics you can find along the way.

From small coastal villages to medieval hillside towns, sampling wine in Italy is a revelation of experiences, where the panorama may have as much effect on the taste of the wine as the soil in which the grapes are grown. Discover your favorite experiences with our Italy food and wine travel guide or look for inspiration with ideas from our sample Italy food and wine tours .

Cruise the Slopes with Winter Activities

Italy’s northern border is shaped by the alps, creating a dynamic escape for lovers of winter activities. Whether passionate about skiing the world-famous slopes or drawn to the prospect of a cozy drink beside a roaring fire, Italy is a celebrated winter destination everyone can enjoy.

Enjoy exclusive excursions while snowshoeing on a luxury Italy tour , indulge in the romance of snowy peaks surrounding beautiful Lake Como , or delight in the variety of art, culture, and cuisine as you explore the season during a Northern Italy tour to uncover the breadth of tradition and excitement on the slopes, in the chalets, and around the festive villages.

Winter season in Florence, Italy

Italy is remarkable in winter, when the temperatures are cool, the cities are filled with light, and the culture and heritage feel authentic. With charm and glamour, you can enjoy traditional sites like the Colosseum or revel in the thrills of luxurious ski resorts, depending on your preferences, interests, and travel goals.

Start planning your trip and consider exploring more ideas, with helpful tips, advice, and information found in our Italy travel guide or sample Italy tours and vacations .

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Italy in winter: 10 reasons to visit + 11 best places to visit in Italy in December

Last Updated on October 25, 2023 by Ingrid & Alex

Are you considering visiting Italy in winter? If yes, you should read this article, because I will tell you everything you need to know: from useful tips and tricks, things worth knowing when you travel to Italy, to the reasons why you should visit Italy in December, and all the best places to visit in Italy in December. 

My first encounter with Italy was during winter, when, on a cold January day I moved to Trieste. Years later, I spent some winter months in Rome and visited Sicily during winter . 

While the weather differs a lot from the Northern part of Italy to the Southern part, both areas are worth visiting during the cold season, for different reasons. 

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Table of Contents

Important things to know & travel tips for when you visit Italy in winter

I will try to include some tools I always find useful when traveling to Italy, together with some information about the weather in Italy in December or any other month of winter. 

How is the weather in Italy in winter? How cold is it in Italy in the winter?

While temperatures start dropping in December, you must remember Italy is long and seasons differ from the North to the South. 

You can expect colder days in places like Venice , Milan, or Florence , with average temperatures of around 7-11 degrees Celcius in December. However, as you move to the South, and get to places like Rome, Naples, Sicily, or Sardinia , average temperatures will be anywhere between 14 and 17 degrees Celsius. 

How long does winter last in Italy?

Like in most European countries, winter officially debuted in December and lasts until the end of February. 

At least that’s the official calendar, but with the current climate changes you never really know what to expect. In the past years, December hasn’t been so cold and it is not that common to see snowfalls during this month, but if you are a snow lover you can head to the Italian Alps and Apennines. 

On the other hand, that means that winters are even milder in Sicily or Sardinia, where you can run for some winter sun. 

How to get around Italy in winter?

The best way to get around Italy is always the same, no matter the season.

Depending on your budget, the area you choose for your vacation, and how much time you prefer to spend on the road, you have a few options: 

• Traveling by train –   this is my favorite way of traveling in the Northern and Central parts of Italy. With great connections, fast trains, and cheaper options, it couldn’t be easier to move from one place to another. Just don’t forget to validate your ticket before you get on the train, and you will be ok. Bookaway   is your getaway from trains, buses, and flights . All in one place.  Calculate your train fare here!
• Renting a car – there are certain areas where I strongly suggest renting a car because it will make your life easier and you can focus on the itinerary, and not on the way to move around. You can definitely drive on the Amalfi Coast , get around in Puglia , wander around Tuscany , and see the best of Sicily . However, I wouldn’t suggest renting a car for Venice , or the Cinque Terre.

My go-to car rental company is always  Discover Cars.  It is a great aggregator that will help you find and book the best option for renting a car during your trip, helping you  save up to 70%  on your car rental. They have a pretty good  cancellation policy  that would give you options in case your flight or travel plans change.   Get your best offers here!

Other things worth knowing when you rent a car: 

• make sure you have a credit card
• the name on the credit card needs to match the person with the driver’s license
• opt for insurance, especially in Italy

Is it worth going to Italy in winter?

Italy in winter? Absolutely! The scenery transforms into a literal winter wonderland, particularly in the northern regions where the snow-covered Alps provide a breathtaking backdrop.

Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice become less crowded, allowing you to enjoy museums, historical sites, and local cuisines without the usual tourist hustle.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the world-class skiing resorts!

To top it all off, you’ll find some phenomenal deals on accommodations during this season.

What to pack for Italy in winter

Packing for an Italian winter requires careful consideration to ensure comfort while exploring these beautiful cities.

Start with a warm winter coat and a few layers underneath such as thermal tops and bottoms. Consider packing a few versatile items like sweaters or long-sleeve shirts that can be mixed and matched.

Jeans are a staple too, as they’re perfect for strolling around cities and blending in with the local fashion.

Don’t forget your accessories. A beanie or a hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential for those chillier days and nights.

Waterproof, comfortable walking shoes are a must for those cobblestone streets, and maybe an extra pair for evenings out.

Lastly, an umbrella or a raincoat is necessary for those unpredictable rains, especially in Venice. Remember, Italian winter is all about layering.

Other things worth knowing

Because the winter season is not so long in some areas in Italy, and because temperatures aren’t so low, it is worth knowing that houses might not have heating or such great insolation.

Older buildings have wooden windows, and even in Trieste where I used to live, during the strongest winds (also known as Bora), we could feel the wind blowing inside with the windows and the shutters closed. 

You will need heavy jackets only if you visit the mountains, or go skiing. 

Some important restaurants and hotels might not be open during the winter months in certain destinations such as Positano , or even the smaller towns of Puglia. On top of that, ferries might not function during this time, and the bus schedules might be stretched. 

Travel insurance  – Our go-to travel insurance is  E KTA  – they offer great deals for people who travel. Everyone between the ages of 3 and 85 can buy it online on their website and save lots of time (and money). Your policy will be sent to your inbox within 2-3 minutes, and you get 24/7 multilingual client support.  Get the best deal for your travel insurance here! Moreover, they also have luggage insurance so you don’t waste any money, even if you luggage gets lost.

10 reasons to visit Italy in December

Christmas Markets and other celebrations

While the Christmas Markets in Italy don’t compare to the ones in Germany , Austria, or even France, there is still a special vibe to them. You will understand that Italy is a catholic country by the many nativity scenes on display, especially in towns of Southern Italy, like Naples. Here, Christmas is a holiday spent with your family.

Also, the main streets and squares in larger cities are covered in lights, a Christmas tree is set, and you can taste different delicious seasonal treats. 

Even on the smaller hidden streets of towns like Alberobello or Locorotondo, you will find beautiful Christmas decorations and flowers. 

If you are looking for the perfect Christmas Market experience in Italy, forget about Milan, Rome, or Venice, and head for the small mountain villages close to the border with Austria, in South Tyrol. 

Also during wintertime, many other world-renowned festivals take place all over Italy. If you don’t feel like being part of the crowds at the Venice Carnival, head to less popular destinations such as Taormina in Sicily, or Muggia close to Slovenia’s border, for charming and entertaining costumed carnivals. 

Taste some traditional sweets

Every country has its own traditions and traditional food for the holidays. And Italy is no different, with its famous and delicious panettone, typically eaten as a dessert for Christmas. 

A sweet bread, filled with dried fruit, that originates from Milan, the panettone is something worth tasting while in Italy during winter. 

Another variety of traditional sweet is the “pandoro” – a Veronese sweet bread, without the added fruit and nuts you get in the panettone. 

Don’t leave without trying “panforte” – a rich, chewy cake, packed with almonds and nuts. 

You can skip the crowds

While many people head to Italy during summer or warmer seasons, winter is perfect for those who want to skip the crowds and have some of the most popular Italian towns all to themselves. 

Important tourist attractions won’t have lines of people gathering to buy tickets, and you will also be able to explore the Uffizzi or the Vatican Museums at your own pace. 

Another important advantage is the prices, which are not so high in low seasons. That means that you can choose to stay in the heart of the city, without breaking the bank. 

Do some shopping and hunt for the winter sales!

The period for winter sales in Italy depends from one region to the other, and if you plan carefully you can catch some pretty nice discounts. 

However, you will have to travel during January or February, and I strongly suggest visiting towns with outlet stores nearby. 

Serravalle Outlet Village is located close to Genoa , and it is one of the largest outlets in Europe with brands ranging from Fendi, Gucci, and even Prada. 

Further south, in Puglia, not far from Bari, stops at the Puglia Outlet Village or drive for less than an hour from Florence and head to the Outlet of Barberino. 

The perfect destination for winter sports

Italy in winter is also the perfect destination for sports lovers. With countless ski resorts operating from December all the way to April, it is easy to find a place that you will like. 

The Dolomiti Superski (with Corina D’Ampezzo as one of the most popular resorts) covers 1200 km of slopes and is the place where you can find something for anyone. 

Val Gardena is another great option in South Tyrol, with 400 kilometers of slopes, while Alta Badia is popular for families and beginners. 

Additionally, the region has plenty of SPAs and thermal waters , offering the best options to relax after a day on the slopes, in the cold. 

Some of these hotels are stunning and can easily get on anyone’s Italy bucket list :

• Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti – an exceptional hotel with a heated infinity pool, a SPA center, sauna, and jacuzzi. See more here!
• Castel Hörtenberg – a 5* hotel with a heated outside pool, located in a castle. See more here!
• Gloriette Guesthouse – a place rarely available, within easy reach of the sports activities. See more here!
• Abano Grand Hotel – is located in Abano Terme, a historic thermal village located in the Padua area, less than one hour away from Venice. See more here!
• Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort – The Leading Hotels of the World – one of the most popular sights in Tuscany, I’m sure you have seen the above picture of this place at least once. See more here!

You can live like a local

And understand how Italians really live, when the crowds of tourists are not around. 

Wake up, go for breakfast at the bar on the corner of the street, have your strong coffee and your cornetto standing at the bar (al banco), and simply enjoy the slow life in Italy’s countryside. 

Enjoy the weather

Even though Northern Italy can get cold and windy, when you choose to visit the Southern part, you will take advantage of sunny days, and beautiful weather for exploring. 

Budget-friendly accommodation

Winter is off-peak season, which means better deals on hotels and vacation rentals.

Winter Festivals

Experience Italy’s rich traditions by participating in unique winter festivals such as the Venice Carnival.

Winter food

Try some hearty Italian winter dishes like pasta e fagioli or polenta.

What to visit in Italy in winter: 10 best places to visit in Italy in December

I visited Sicily in February and I think it was the perfect time to go!

Flights and accommodation were cheap, the weather was nice, and all the places we visited weren’t crowded. On top of that, we were part of the carnival in Taormina, which made the trip even nicer. 

Choose to spend one week in Sicily and visit the eastern part of the island, moving from Catania to Syracuse, Mount Etna, Taormina, Isola Bella, Messina, Noto, and Ragusa.

The other option is to go to the north-western part of the island, stay in Palermo , and make your way to Cefalu’, San Vito lo Capo, Trapani, and Marsala. 

Of course, you can always choose to spend more time on the island and drive around without missing any of its most important tourist attractions .

Popular Sicily activities

Where to land in Sicily

There are 2 airports you can choose to land in, depending on your best connections: Palermo, or Catania . 

Where to stay in Sicily in winter

I personally enjoyed Catania and all the other towns on the eastern part of the island much more than Palermo. That’s why, I would suggest staying in Catania, or even in Taormina. 

See accommodation options in Catania here!

However, when you want to visit the Palermo region, you can always stay in Cefalu! I absolutely adored that small village, set on the cliffs, overlooking the sea. 

See accommodation options for Cefalu here!

They say “vedi Napoli e muori” – “see Naples and you can die”, because you have seen the most wonderful landscapes in Italy. 

While I don’t totally agree with this, the area surrounding Naples is incredibly beautiful and offers so many activities to choose from. Apart from the fact that you will be set close to the Amalfi Coast , the islands of Ischia and Procida, Sorrento is only a short train ride away, and the historic sites of Pompei or Herculaneum are the same. 

I can safely say that you can spend weeks and even months in the region without getting bored. 

Temperatures in Naples during winter are just right, and in my opinion, it is much better to visit the area during the cold season than during summer.

If you would like to explore Naples as well, here is my complete guide for one day in Naples .

Popular activities in Naples

Where to stay in Naples in winter?

While Naples can offer more affordable accommodation options and has great connections for visiting the region, I would strongly suggest moving a bit to the south, and choosing to stay in the Sorrento area. 

Sorrento is much more charming and more tranquil. 

See accommodation options in Sorrento

See accommodation options in Naples

Italy’s capital, la Cita Eterna, Rome was my home for a few months a few years back. 

Vibrant, and packed with tourist attractions, Rome is for sure one of the best places to visit in Italy in December. 

Even if you are not one of the people who comes to the Vatican for Christmas mass, you can still take advantage of the low season and enjoy staying in stunning hotels for less and skipping the crowds at the Vatican Museums, or at the Colosseum and the Imperial Forum. 

From Rome , you can easily go on countless day trips, and even spend some time by the sea at Ostia Antica.

Popular activities in Rome

Where to stay in Rome in winter?

I strongly suggest you take advantage of the low season prices and choose an accommodation option in the Old Town area, anywhere around Piazza del Popolo, Villa Borghese, the Spanish Steps, or even close to the Vatican. 

Why not choose to stay with a view of the Fontana di Trevi from your window ?

Unlike its bustling summer months, Venice in winter presents a calm and enchanting experience. The city shrouded in a misty allure, takes on a poetic charm that is as captivating as it is serene.

As you traverse the city’s winding canals and narrow paths, you’ll find fewer tourists and more opportunities to engage with the local culture.

If you want to live like the locals, visit during one of the many events and celebrations that take place in Venice in winter. Of course, you will have the chance to experience Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Venice in December, but also the famous La Befana – when an entertaining boat race takes place on the Canal Grande.

Let’s not forget that February hosts the world-famous Venice Carnival.

Popular activities in Venice

Where to stay in Venice in winter?

For accommodation, the luxurious Hotel Danieli delivers Venetian elegance with a view of the Grand Canal.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider Generator Venice Hostel located on the island of Giudecca, offering chic, minimalist rooms with a lively social scene.

Another unique stay is the intimate Ca Maria Adele , a boutique hotel situated in the quieter Dorsoduro district, offering a mix of Venetian tradition and modern design.

Italy’s food capital, Bologna is also known as “The Red, The Fat, The Wise”, that’s because of its delicious food, the red buildings, and because it hosts one of the older universities in Italy. 

Located less than 2 hours away from Venice, Bologna has milder weather, and when I visited in February cherry trees were in bloom! 

Spend at least one day in Bologna , make your way to the Santuario San Luca, eat your heart out, and go on countless day trips to some of the most popular destinations in Italy.

Popular activities in Bologna

Where to stay in Bologna

The old town with its beautiful arches and towers is the perfect place to stay especially if you are planning to explore the region and be close to the train station. 

See accommodation options in Bologna

One of the most charming towns in Italy, Florence is packed with history and one of the perfect destinations for a honeymoon in Italy. 

I spent a long weekend exploring Tuscany’s capital, on a sunny November, and while it wasn’t wintering yet, I think December could be as perfect. 

Spend your time visiting the Uffizzi Museum ( book your skip the line priority entrance ticket online ) , walk on the Ponte Vecchio, see David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, eat a mouthwatering bistecca alla fiorentina, and climb to the top of the Duomo and see the city from above ( book a priority ticket for a Dome climb ).

Also, Florence in winter hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Italy, making it the right place to go when you want to feel winter’s spirit.

Get the most out of one day in Florence with this guide and itinerary!

Popular activities in Florence

Where to stay in Florence in winter?

When it comes to staying in Florence during winter, there are several cozy and luxurious options that offer a warm retreat from the chilly weather.

Hotel Lungarno is a charming option with an extensive art collection and a fantastic view of the Ponte Vecchio.

If you’re after something more modern, Gallery Hotel Art is a boutique establishment boasting a contemporary design. For those seeking the utmost luxury, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze provides opulent rooms set in a restored Renaissance palazzo, surrounded by an enchanting garden.

Budget travelers can consider B&B La S ignoria di Firenze in the heart of the city, a stone’s throw away from major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery.

Each of these accommodations ensures a comfortable and restful stay, letting you explore the magic of Florence in winter to the fullest.

No matter if you only spend one weekend in Puglia , winter might be the perfect time to head down south. The region is starting to become Italy’s top destination, not only for locals, and you must jump on the train fast if you want to catch it without the crowds. 

While you might not have the chance to explore all the magical beaches around Puglia, simply driving from one small town to the other will make you fall in love.

Temperatures during winter are mild in Puglia, and while many touristic spots might be closed you can live the authentic life in the region and blend in with the locals. 

Bari is the most important town, and the place with the largest airport in Puglia, but I suggest you look for accommodation in some of the smaller cities like Alberobello , Locorotondo , or even Martina Franca . 

Get your full guide to Puglia here!

Popular activities in Puglia

Where to stay in Puglia in winter?

Because winter in Puglia is still quite chilly, I would choose to stay in one of the bigger towns such as Bari , Brindisi , Taranto , or Lecce .

One of the most perfect places to run to for winter sun, Sardinia has plenty to offer during winter as well. 

With maximum temperatures during winter going between 14 and 15.5 degrees Celsius, you might not head directly to the beach, but I still believe this might be the perfect weather to stroll around Cagliari and deep dive into the island’s rich history. 

If you don’t like the cold, avoid the mountains and Tempio Pausania, since these are the places that get the coldest during winter, and where you can even find snow. 

That being said, while you might not be able to go for a swim, you could still spend time on the beach, enjoying the mild temperatures Sardinia has to offer. 

Rent a car and drive around the island, explore Cagliari, Bosa, Alghero, and much more with this perfect one-week in Sardinia itinerary . 

Popular activities in Sardinia

Where to stay in Sardinia?

Staying in Sardinia during winter allows you to experience the tranquility of the island outside of the bustling summer season.

If you’re after luxury and relaxation, the Eliantos Boutique Hotel & Spa in Santa Margherita di Pula offers beachside accommodations and a world-renowned spa.

The charming town of Alghero has a number of accommodations like the Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa which boasts beautiful views of the sea.

For a mix of culture and comfort, consider staying in the city of Cagliari, the island’s capital, where UNAHOTELS T Hotel offers contemporary accommodations in the heart of the city.

Cinque Terre

I’ve been to the Cinque Terre in early May and while it was not as crowded as during the peak season, some places were still crazy packed. 

Head to the colorful small town of Liguria during winter and you can still enjoy the stunning sights, go hiking, and eat delicious food, without having to worry about the crowds. 

On top of that, during December, in Manarola, you can see the largest nativity scene, and enjoy fireworks once night falls. 

Plan your trip for the end of February and come prepared for “Carnevale” – get your camera ready and just sit back and admire the colorful costumes you will see children running around town in. 

Plan your perfect Cinque Terre itinerary with my guide!

Popular activities in Cinque Terre

Where to stay in Cinque Terre in winter?

Staying in one of the villages may get windy, however, you can still choose to stay close, in places like La Spezia or even in Monterosso .

Cortina D’Ampezzo

As mentioned before, this is the right destination for the most active tourists, looking to enjoy nature and winter sports. 

Of course, you can mix an active vacation with a sightseeing one, when you rent a car and drive around Belluno, a region neighboring Friuli Venezia Giulia. 

Popular activities for Cortina D’Ampezzo

Where to stay in Cortina D’Ampezzo in winter?

Often referred to as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Cortina D’Ampezzo offers a plethora of accommodation options fitting every budget and preference, especially during winter.

For those who value luxury and comfort, Cristallo Wellness Mountain Living is a top choice with its panoramic views and comprehensive wellness services. The historic Hotel Bellevue Suites & Spa , located in the heart of the town, offers traditional charm coupled with modern conveniences.

For budget-conscious travelers, Hotel Olimpia offers a cozy and affordable stay, complete with stunning mountain views.

Adventure lovers may enjoy a stay at Rifugio Averau , a remote mountain refuge accessible by snowmobile or skis that provides a truly immersive Dolomites experience.

Even though in my mind Milan is not the real Italy, there is something about visiting Italy’s fashion capital during the cold season. 

Visit the Duomo on a guided tour , admire the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its high-end stores perfectly decorated for winter, indulge in some discounted shopping, take part in the Ambrosiano Carnival when you want to skip the crowds of Venice, and simply go on a stroll if you are lucky to see the snow in Milan.

Popular activities in Milan

Where to stay in Milan in winter?

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, offers a range of accommodations to suit every style, season, and budget, particularly in the winter.

If you’re looking for a high-end stay, you might consider the palatial surroundings of the Armani Hotel Milano, where sleek, contemporary design meets unparalleled luxury.

For a more boutique experience, Senato Hotel Milano offers elegance and charm in the heart of the city. Conveniently located near the iconic Duomo, it’s an ideal base for both shopping and sightseeing.

Budget-friendly options include Ostello Bello , a hip and social hostel with a lively bar, not just a place to sleep but a hub of cultural activity.

For those seeking a unique stay, the eco-friendly Hotel Milano Scala focuses on sustainability without sacrificing comfort, boasting a green philosophy and a rooftop garden with a striking view of the city.

Other Italy Travel Resources

• Choose the best Italy subscription box idea for when you don’t travel
• Read the best books about Italy , with the action taking place in Italy
• Make the best traditional Italian gifts for Italy lovers

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Ingrid & Alex

11 responses to “Italy in winter: 10 reasons to visit + 11 best places to visit in Italy in December”

[…] German fruit bread – a sweet bread filled with dried fruit, very similar to the panettone you must try when visiting Italy in winter. […]

[…] is an alternative for anyone who is short of time. If you prefer a peaceful holiday, come over to Italy in the winter and stay on the islands for a few […]

[…] Here’s a link to get you a gondola ride for a cheaper price. Beware, if you decide to visit Italy in the winter, there is a chance that there could be some rain. If rain hits Venice, this could result in extreme […]

[…] Christmas morning with delight and contentment. I was as merry as a schoolgirl. Joy knows no age! Visiting Italy in December and spending a beautiful Christmas in the cathedral complex of Pisa was one of the best decisions […]

[…] there during all seasons, I can help you decide when would be the best time to see Italy (and if winter is that time for […]

[…] of the most enchanting places to visit in Italy in winter is Aosta. In fact, the valley is a stunning place to visit at any time of the year, but December is […]

[…] dismiss Italy in Winter– there's still plenty to do. Northern Italy does get cold and snow in winter. Obviously, the […]

[…] Italy in spring might be my favorite one. Of course, all the others have their charm, especially winter and fall are perfect as well when you want to skip the crowds, but spring is simply […]

[…] where you could easily spend your whole honeymoon. Perfect for nature lovers, you can come here during winter for some skiing, extreme sports, and even thermal water SPAs in Cortina […]

[…] Winter in Italy – destinations & events […]

[…] is also a great destination for Italy in winter because of its mild temperatures. All in all, Puglia is a great destination year round, it only […]

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Detailed Northern Italy Itinerary For 7-14 Days

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting some brand new destinations in Europe including several in Italy . In this guide, I’m going to share my Northern Italy itinerary for those with limited time. There are SO many wonderful destinations in Italy but many are spread between the south and centre of the country, requiring extra time and planning. I decided to save them for a future trip, instead focussing on the north. With vibrant cities, abundant history, delectable regional cuisine, mountain ranges and breathtakingly beautiful lakes, you’ve picked a great destination!

How many days for Northern Italy?

7 days in Northern Italy is enough to see the main cities like Milan, Verona and Venice. If you also wish to visit the Dolomites, Lake Garda and Lake Como, you’ll need at least 10 days in Northern Italy but 2 weeks is better, in my opinion. However long you have, I have a North Italy itinerary to help you out.

NORTHERN ITALY ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com Getting there: flight / car / bus / train Getting around: car / bus / train Activities: GetYourGuide Food experiences: EatWith

When to visit Northern Italy?

Summer in Italy is a popular time to visit but expect it to be crowded and expensive. In my opinion, the best time is shoulder season : March-May or September-October. If you can brave the colder weather, winter is of course less crowded with better deals to be found on accommodation. It’s also a good time for skiing in the Dolomites.

Getting around during 10 days in Northern Italy

By car: a North Italy road trip is a fantastic way to explore. Although you won’t need a car in cities like Verona, Milan and Venice, it’s useful if visiting the Dolomites. Use Rentalcars.com to browse prices and book. For solo travellers in Italy , I recommend the following options instead… By train: these are affordable and efficient in Northern Italy. I use RailEurope and Trainline to compare prices and times. By bus: admittedly, it’s the less scenic way to travel but I’m a fan of the FlixBus because it’s regular and cheaper than the train.

North Italy itinerary for 7 days

• Days 1-2 – Milan
• Day 3 – Lake Como day trip
• Day 4 – Verona
• Day 5 – Lake Garda day trip
• Days 6-7 – Venice.

North Italy itinerary for 10 days

• Days 4-5 – the Dolomites
• Day 6 – Trento en route to Verona
• Day 7 – Verona
• Days 8 – Lake Garda day trip
• Days 9-10 – Venice.

North Italy itinerary for 14 days

• Day 3-4 – Lake Como
• Days 5-6 – Dolomites
• Day 7 – Trento en route to Verona
• Day 8 – Verona
• Days 9-10 – Lake Garda
• Days 11-14 – Venice.

Public transport adaptations

The above itineraries include exploring the Dolomites by car then driving to Verona with a stop in Trento. If you’re travelling by public transport, take the train from Bolzano to Verona directly or add an extra night in Trento (carrying all my luggage always stops me from seeing somewhere en route to somewhere else).

Milan – 2-3 nights

As the second-biggest city in the country, Milan is worth visiting during your Northern Italy itinerary. Italy’s fashion capital never stops moving. Although it can be busy, hectic and expensive, Milan is well worth a visit. I’d suggest spending 2-3 days here depending how much you like big cities.

Read next: how to spend 2 days in Milan

Day 1 in Milan – hit the highlights

On your first day in Milan, I’d recommend exploring Milan’s core. Duomo Square is where you can see Milan’s most famous buildings, join walking tours and reach other key attractions on foot.

• Take a free walking tour with City Walkers . I learned so much from our informative guide. The tour lasts 2 hours 45 minutes, departing daily from Duomo Square. Give a tip if you enjoy it.
• Venture inside the famous Duomo Cathedral that took 600 years to complete. Boasting more statues than any other building in the world (around 3,500), a local law prohibiting any Milan building to be taller was only recently lifted. There are several ticket options: I took the skip-the-line stair climb including access to the interior, museum and archaeological area.
• Wander through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – this 19th-century arcade is an architectural masterpiece housing designer Italian brands. The prices are sky-high but it’s a must-see.
• Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa – this 13th-century church is not for the faint of heart! Human skulls and bones line the walls of the ossuary chapel.
• Sforzesco Castle – walk through Milan’s 15th-century medieval castle for free or pay to visit the Art Gallery, Archaeological Museum (prehistoric and Egyptian) and other libraries and exhibitions. Closed Mondays.
• Sempione Park – by the castle lies a 47-hectare park with a lake and wide array of bird life. At the back, you’ll find Arco della Pace. Construction began to mark Napoleon’s victories and it was finally completed to celebrate Italian reunification following Austro-Hungarian rule.

Where to eat (affordably) in Central Milan:

• All’Antico Vinaio – truly one of the best sandwiches I’ve eaten in my life! Although the line stretches around the corner, it’s worth it. I paid €7 for a sandwich named ‘the boss’ with black truffle spread, prosciutto, hard cheese and rocket/arugula
• ALDENTE Pastabar – although it’s a budget, no-frills cafe, they offer an excellent package deal of pasta, dessert, a drink AND coffee for €10. Choose from various types of pasta and sauces
• Panzerotti Luini – brave the long line for delicious panzerotti (similar to empanadas) filled with cheese, meat, spinach and other ingredients.

Day 2 in Milan

With a second day in Milan, you can get past the highlights. Explore other neighbourhoods or try a fun class or activity.

• Pasta making class – the best experience of my Northern Italy itinerary was this fantastic workshop hosted by Pietro in his home. We made different types of egg pasta and tiramisu for dessert, learning about Italian food from Pietro and enjoying our creations together with wine
• Relax in Navigli neighbourhood – this part of Milan is more relaxed and affordable than the centre with cool cafes and bars beside the canals
• Monumental cemetery – one of the more unusual Milan attractions is this grand cemetery where the tombs look more like temples, many built by famous architects. Within walking distance is…
• Isola – this quirky neighbourhood is known for its street art and Bosco Verticale, two skyscrapers covered with hundreds of plants, reminding me of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.

Where to stay in Milan

I can vouch for Porta Romana as a central neighbourhood with great food. Milano Roastery is a fantastic cafe to start your day with coffee and stuffed croissants (the pistachio cream one was phenomenal) while Il Trapizzino serves pizza cones oozing burrata cheese. Pastamadre and Dongiò are lovely pasta restaurants. Another popular neighbourhood is Navigli , all set around a canal network. With lots of outside cafes and restaurants, it’s a cool hood not far from central Milan. Accommodation suggestions:

• Backpackers hostel : YellowSquare Milan in Porta Romana is a great hostel with two restaurants, a bar and yoga classes. Although it’s a social place, the dorms (each bunk with its own light and plug socket) remain quiet at night. Check availability from €30 per night .
• Budget hotel: BioCity near Centrale Station includes Wi-Fi, TVs in each room, free daily breakfast, biodegradable toiletries and easy access to public transport connections. Check availability from €118 per night .
• Browse all Milan accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Day 3 – Lake Como

Lake Como in the Lombardy region is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe , attracting celebrity guests from around the world. The 146-kilometre lake is shaped like the letter Y, the three branches lined with picturesque villages drinking in views of the Alps. How to visit Lake Como as a day trip from Milan: The train from Milano Centrale takes 30 minutes to reach Como San Giovanni. Use Trainline to book from €4.80 . For ease and convenience, companies like GetYourGuide offer Lake Como day trips from Milan from €80 including a guide, transport and boat trip. How to get around Lake Como: by water, of course! An all-day ferry ticket will enable you to visit as many places as you want. At the time of writing (2022), a day pass costs €25.80 (individual tickets cost €4.80).

Stay overnight in Lake Como (for longer Northern Italy itineraries)

With two days in Lake Como , you can get past the highlights and explore the many idyllic and charming places surrounding the lake. As an extra benefit, you’ll avoid the crowds by visiting outside of the typical tourist daytripper hours. Day 1 in Lake Como:

• Bellagio – often dubbed the ‘pearl of Lake Como’, this village is known for its colourful houses and cobbled backstreets… And receiving frequent visits from George Clooney! Villa Melzi and the Basilica of St. Giacomo are two of the most impressive places to visit.
• Villa del Balbianello – if this 18th-century villa looks familiar, it may be because it’s been used for the filming of major productions such as Star Wars and James Bond. The manicured gardens with sea views are some of the most beautiful you’ll see. Arrive by ferry (followed by a 20-minute hike) or the more expensive water taxi. Entry costs €20.

Day 2 in Lake Como:

• Varenna – just 20 minutes from Bellagio, Varenna is one of the most well-photographed places in Northern Italy. After exploring the beautiful town, you can visit natural attractions including waterfalls and Orrido di Bellano gorge and canyon.
• Menaggio – this beloved town is known for its lakeside promenade where you can admire the views, relax in the many cafes and restaurants, or hire a small boat
• Tremezzina   – also easily accessible from Bellagio, this village is full of grand villas such as Villa Carlotta with impressive botanical gardens.

Where to stay in Lake Como:

• Budget – Hotel Borgo Antico is just a 10-minute walk from the centre of Como town with a rustic vibe, air conditioning and homemade breakfast. Check availability from €150 per night .
• Splash out – Le Luci sul Lago di Como is an entire apartment with exquisite lake views from a private balcony, fully equipped kitchen with coffee machine & more. Check availability from €200 per night .
• Browse all places to stay in Lake Como on Booking.com .

Additional day trip from Milan – Bergamo

If your Northern Italy itinerary allows, another worthwhile day trip from Milan is to Bergamo, a small yet charming city just an hour away by train. Visiting the ancient Città Alta (Old City) is akin to stepping back in time thanks to its cobbled streets and Venetian walls surrounding the city. Things to do in Bergamo include visiting Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, Cappella Colleoni (a shrine to the Italian war hero), riding the funicular and eating at the many authentic snack bars and gelato cafes. Use Trainline to book a ticket from €4.80 .

Dolomites – 3 nights

An undeniable bucket list destination for your North Italy road trip is the Dolomites. This UNESCO-protected mountain range in Northeastern Italy entices visitors with its jutting cliffs, otherworldly green-blue waters and opportunities for hiking, skiing and boat trips. For the ultimate contrast to big and busy Milan, the Dolomoties can’t be missed! Bolzano is the largest town in South Tyrol region and where many people choose to base. A car is highly recommended for this section of our North Italy itinerary because there’s little public transport connecting the various points of interest. The Dolomites region boasts fantastic cuisine, not to mention some of Italy’s best wine from the Eisack Valley.

Days 4-5 – explore the Dolomites

1-3 days in the Dolomites is an optimum amount of time to spend. There are many incredible places to see including:

• Tre Cime – these three striking peaks are almost a symbol for the Dolomites. For an unforgettable hike, take the 10km Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop
• Lago di Braies – as one of the most iconic Dolomite locations after Tre Cime, there’s a 0% chance you’ll have this lake to yourself! Escape after on a nearby hike
• Val di Funes – this vast valley with dramatic mountains towering above the Church of St Magdalena is another of the Dolomites’ most photographed destinations, for good reason.
• Val Gardena region – this is your one-stop for skiing in winter and hiking and rock climbing in summer. There are several hikes with jaw-dropping scenery that can be reached via the cable car.

Day 6 – Trento en route to Milan

Assuming you’re travelling by car in the Dolomites, consider visiting Trento en route to Verona. This mid-sized city of 100,000 takes a little over an hour to reach. After being immersed in nature for several days, Trento provides the perfect dose of culture and history. What to do in Trento during one day :

• Tour Buonconsiglio Castle built in Romanesque-Lombard style (€10 entry)
• See Trento Cathedral built upon the original 4th-century basilica 
• Enjoy the cuisine that takes influence from central Europe (the region was part of Austria for 100 years)
• Take the cable car for panoramic views of the city and mountains
• Visit museums such as MUSE (Science Museum), the Museum of Modern Art and the Diocesan museum
• Attend the Trentino Film Festival  in April if your Northern Italy trip itinerary coincides with the dates.

Verona – 2 nights

Verona is a beautiful stop for any Northern Italy travel itinerary. Gone is the hustle and bustle of fast-paced Milan. Verona is small and charming although it gets very busy during peak season.

Day 7 – Verona highlights

Things to do during one day in Verona :

• Verona Arena – this Roman amphitheatre in Piazza Bra (Verona’s central square) dating back to 30 AD was once used for gory gladiator fights. These days, it holds more peaceful performances: pop concerts and opera in the summer months.
• Romeo & Juliet tourism – Juliet’s Balcony attracts crowds who either visit the courtyard for free and take photos with a golden bust of Juliet OR pay to enter the museum which includes access to the famous balcony. Although Romeo and Juliet probably weren’t real, it’s well documented that their families lived in Verona.
• Summit Castel San Pietro – the castle overlooking Verona can be accessed by a (very) steep climb or a quick cable car ride costing $1.50 each way.
• Find frescos – admire beautiful murals dating back to the 1500s. Since the population was largely illiterate, the frescos visually tell stories with moral and biblical significance.
• Climb Torre dei Lamberti – the best views of Verona, the countryside and castle can be seen from the top of this ancient tower. Pay €6 to climb the stairs or ride the elevator.

You could consider leaving Verona after the day’s sightseeing, arriving in Venice the same evening. Getting to Verona: the city is well connected to other destinations in Northern Italy by train and Flixbus .

Eat & drink in Verona

I had the fantastic opportunity in Verona to partner with Original Travel and experience one of their tailor-made travel experiences. They create travel itineraries based on individual likes and dislikes, ensuring every detail is carefully considered. Based on my insatiable love of food and travel , we embarked on a wonderful tour of Verona, learning how the culinary history has shaped the city and vice versa. From salami-themed frescos to cake-shaped statues and a wine, cheese and meat tasting feast to remember, you’ll need to read my Verona food guide for all the details! Learn more about Original Travel & browse their Italy holidays here .

Where to stay in Verona

• Hostel – the Hostello is one of the best hostels I’ve stayed in with spacious rooms, a garden, modern kitchen and relaxation area. Check availability from €25 per night .
• Budget hotel – SALUS Locazione Turistica is near to all the main attractions with comfortable rooms and a lounge area. Check availability from €65 per night .
• Splash out – Theatrum Rooms and Suites have individually-designed arty rooms themed around the city of Verona, alongside all your desired amenities. Check availability from €170 per night
• Browse all Verona accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Lake Garda – day trip or overnight

The largest lake in Italy doubles up as one of the most beautiful places to visit. Like Como, there are numerous towns flanking the Lake, each seemingly more picturesque than the last, but none more lovely than Sirmione . Although you could easily spend a whole week in Lake Como, if you have just 7 or 10 days for your North Italy itinerary, you’ll probably want to visit Lake Garda as a day trip from Verona . To do this, either take the train or a guided day trip inc Sirmione with GetYourGuide (€70) .

How to spend 2 days in Lake Garda

There are plenty of villages to spend the night such as Garda and Malcesine. Using one as your launching point, enjoy the following places and activities in Lake Garda :

• Sirmione – as the most popular destination beside the lake, it’s best to visit early or late. You’ll miss the tour groups and see the village slightly less crowded. Wander the castle, churches and excavated Roman villa
• Malcesine is another of the most beautiful towns on the north banks of Lake Garda alongside Riva del Garda and Limone Sul Garda
• Bardolino – what’s the only thing that could make an Italian village in the foothills of the Monte Baldo mountains more perfect? Ah yes, a wine festival !
• Other southern towns including Lazise and Torri del Benaco
• Marvel at Cascata del Varone waterfall and Arco Castle north of the lake
• Market hop: different towns hold weekly markets selling food, crafts and other goods.

Itinerary suggestion: for 2 days in Lake Garda , explore the northern lake towns during one day and the southern towns during the next.

Where to stay in Lake Garda:

• Budget hostel – for a basic but clean stay close to Garda town, Albergo Napoleone hotel is a steal from €71 a night.
• Splash out – sunny yellow Hotel Bardolino is within walking distance from the lake and beaches, many rooms with balconies and lake views. Check availability from €123 a night .

Venice – 2-3 nights

Although Venice can be insanely crowded (to the extent that a fee to visit the island is being established from summer 2022), it’s a wonder of our world and a must for your North Italy itinerary… Provided you visit outside of peak tourist season!

Accommodation on Venice island can be expensive so, if you’re travelling on a budget , stay on the mainland and catch the bus or train over the bridge (€1.50). Since vehicles aren’t allowed on the island, public transport leaves you at Tronchetto requiring a 40-minute walk (or a boat ride) to St Mark’s Square. Luckily, getting lost down atmospheric side streets is half the charm of Venice. Getting to Venice: From Verona, take the train from €10 or the Flixbus from €5.

Read next: 2 day Venice itinerary for first-timers

Day 9 – Venice highlights

What to do during one day in Venice (the main attractions):

• Take a free walking tour of Venice (booking mandatory)
• Go inside Saint Mark’s Basilica . Entry is free or book a ticket for the full shebang (rooftop access, museum, skip-the-line entry and guide)
• Go up the campanile tower for panoramic views
• Wander St Mark’s Square (but don’t eat or drink anything there – the prices and coperto fees are ridiculous!)
• Go inside Doge’s Palace and cross the Bridge of Sighs named after the sound prisoners would make when seeing Venice for the last time. Entry also includes the Correr Museum, National Archeological Museum and Biblioteca Marciana. Arrive early and queue or get a skip-the-line ticket
• Cross Rialto Bridge and wander Rialto Market.

Delicious affordable eats in Venice:

• Tiramisu at I Tre Mercanti – at this iconic deli shop you can see fresh tiramisu being made. Try flavours from original to pistachio, Nutella and salted caramel. Well worth the €4.50
• L’ Bacaro de’ Bischeri – what dreams are made of! With 4.9 stars on Google, this tiny deli in Rialto serves phenomenal sandwiches for affordable prices. I forget which one I ordered but it had spicy pistachio cream, ham and sundried tomato. They also serve €1 wine!
• Farini – there are a bunch of these pizza cafes serving delicious, fresh pizzas by the slice, best washed down with an Aperol Spritz
• Gelato at Gelatoteca Suso – this place is the bomb! You’ll have to queue but it’s worth it
• We Love Italy (fresh pasta to go)   – perhaps pasta connoisseurs would turn up their nose at this takeaway cafe but in my opinion, it’s a great place to grab try different types of pasta and sauces including famous duck ragu from €6
• Bacarando Corte dell’Orso – nearby the above two places is this casual restaurant with excellent cicchetti. I had three pieces and wine for €11
• Frito Inn – fresh squid for €10? Yes, please! This takeaway stand serves fresh food in cones
• Dolce Vita Venezia – if you’re on a budget, you can’t do better than 3 cicchetti and Aperol for €5!

Day 10 – visit the Venetian islands

• Murano island – known for producing colourful Venetian glass, this is a wonderful island to browse gift shops (which aren’t outrageously expensive), watch glass-making demonstrations and visit Murano Glass Museum. Entry is €11 but it’s well worth it; the arty glass creations are out-of-this-world!
• Burano island – the rainbow-painted houses of Italy’s most colourful island must be seen to be believed. There are a few things to do like visit the Lace Museum but the highlight is wandering and snapping naturally-saturated Insta pics
• Lido – using our daily transport pass, we spontaneously tagged on a visit to this 11km-long island where we strolled the town and visited the beach. We hadn’t expected there to be time after visiting Murano & Burano but thanks to long summer days in Europe, we visited around 6pm.

How to visit the islands: the islands are connected to Venice island by boat. Either get a daily transport pass (€21) from a ticket vending machine or ticket point at a bus/boat station or book a small group Murano & Burano tour inc guide (€30 with GetYourGuide) .

A third day in Venice (optional)

Depending how much time your North Italy itinerary allows for, 2 days in Venice may be enough. However, I enjoyed having a third day to visit the hidden gems and soak up more of beautiful Venice (and eat more cicchetti naturally!)

• Libreria Acqua Alta – if you can’t afford a gondola ride, visit this quirky bookshop with a door leading directly to a harnessed gondola parked on the water. The name translates to ‘high water bookshop’ and, appropriately, the books are stored in bathtubs and waterproof bins in preparation for the regular foods that plague Venice
• Giardini Reali – despite being right beside St Mark’s Square, these hidden gardens are a lovely place to escape the crowds and rest on a bench surrounded by beautiful foliage
• The Jewish Quarter – the Venetian word ‘geto’ evolved to the word we know today as ghetto, originally referring to Cannaregio where the Jewish people of Venice were exiled in the 1500s. It’s now a vibrant area filled with galleries, synagogues and restaurants.

Where to stay in Venice

• Hostel – you can’t do better than AO Hostel Venizia Mestre2 moments from the bus stop transporting you to the island. It’s a clean, modern base with dorms from €29 and private rooms from €50.
• Budget hotel – Hotel Al Malcanton has a grand, retro style within walking distance from all the important Venice attractions. Check availability from €122 a night .
• Splash out – Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal is a beautiful 4* hotel with a rooftop cocktail bar. Check availability from €175 a night .
• Browse all accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Thanks for reading!

Read my other Italy posts:

• How to spend 2 days in Venice, Italy
• The perfect Milan itinerary for 2 days
• Reasons to visit Milan, Italy
• A complete guide to Verona food
• Solo female travel in Italy

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Liked this Northern Italy itinerary? Pin it for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING ITALY Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Driving in Europ e – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Italy (and all around the world). For trains , both RailEurope and Trainline offer excellent service in Italy. The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use FlixBus . Find journeys from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s some of the most affordable insurance out there but still covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . For Italian food experiences from cooking classes to market visits hosted by locals, use EatWith . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

1 thoughts on “ Detailed Northern Italy Itinerary For 7-14 Days ”

We spent some time at Lago di braies at sunset with very few people and are aware of our luck. What a beauty!

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Northern Italy Tours & Trips

Whether you are dreaming about a gondola ride in Venice or searching for inspiration in the fashion capital of Milan, Northern Italy boasts cities that will enthrall you. Take an adventure to explore hidden gems and live like a local in the Dolomites , or discover the big cities and experience la dolce vita right before your eyes. From here, you can also visit  Swiss Alps .

250+ Northern Italy tour packages with 984 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking in the Dolomites

Great value for money. Good tour guide. Excellent travel company. Some days the hiking was a bit light. Would have given it 5 stars if the hiking was every day. Also tourradar/intrepid could also consider providing a higher cost tour where we stay at different refuges every day. This will reduce the transportation constraints and time and increase the Dolomites amazing experience.

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre

We had a great trip to Italy. Excellent communication while we were traveling. They really made us feel like they were with us every step of the way. Made things very easy so that we could just enjoy the experience.

• Food & Culinary
• Wine tasting

Italy Real Food Adventure

Italy Real Food Adventure tour is amazing! I'm happy to travel around the cities in Italy and eat all of the food there!

• In-depth Cultural

Lakes & Lagoon: Como, Lake Garda & Venice, 6 days private tour

This tour needs to experienced to be believed. Every day of the tour was simply great!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

4 Days NORTHERN LAKES TOUR - from Milan

Overall the tour arrangement was fine, in particular the hotel accommodations for the three nights are fine.

• Mountain Hikes

A simply fantastic experience from so many perspectives. Andy was a brilliant guide… both in terms of hiking and integrating the group. The mountains were extraordinary. What an awesome landscape… and the hiking difficulties were challenging at times but not undoable. Came away with a great sense of achievement. Hoyle very comfortable. Good, solid Tyrolian food. Well organised and lovely company. Totally recommended.

Italian Tour Gondola Ride & Cinque Terre Visit

My 10-year-old son and I just came back from Rome-Florence-Venice and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was our first time in Italy and first time using a tour. There were a couple of minor hiccups but our tour operators, Hannah, Barbara, Rose, Wendy, Alberto, Sam were extremely helpful and pleasant to work with. They were super responsive via WhatsApp. I thought our itinerary was very reasonable. We mostly travel independently but the travel logistics were all arranged for us. Thanks again for the top-notch customer service.

• Photography
• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus

European Discovery (Start Amsterdam, 27 To 35, 12 Days) (11 destinations)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Milan & Lake Como - 3 Days/ 2 Nights

Our guide, Ned, was great. The hotel Meininger was clean and comfortable in a college dormitory way, but not very friendly. I asked to reduce the centrally controlled thermostat because I sleep better when it’s cooler, and they said no. The hallways are not air conditioned at all. The rooms get hot during the day and the air conditioning won’t stay on without the key in the slot. I’d rather pay a few dollars more and adjust the temperature to my own needs. The tour has lots of walking but it was enjoyable to see Milan’s highlights. Lake Como was gorgeous scenery, perfect weather, and we had enough time for a nice meal in Bellagio and a drink in Varenna. The train ride back to Milan was standing room only, and hot and stuffy, followed by a long wait in line at the taxi stand. I’d rate the tour guide higher than the accommodations. I suppose that the name of the tour agency (Italy on a Budget) should give a warning that all is not going to be first class.

Let's Go North - 9 Days/ 8 Days

Me and my friend had an amazing experience on the Let's Go North tour. Every one of the guides were friendly, accommodating, and insightful. They definitely went above and beyond to make sure we were getting the best out of the experience. I loved everything about the places we visited and the hotels we stayed at. I wholeheartedly recommend this tour for anyone looking to experience Italy the true Italian way!

Tuscany to Cinque Terre: Wines, Villages & Unforgettable Walks

From Lake Garda to Venice

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

The Magic of the Italian Lakes

The food was not very good

Best of the Italian Lakes (9 Days)

A great trip in all respects. Thank you, Sarah. There was one aspect prior to the trip itself that we were not happy about....... We were unable to get a flight into Milan Malpensa Airport on the arrival day and could only get an early flight into Milan Bergamo Airport. We contacted you twice the month before and on being told a pick up from Bergamo Airport was not possible requested that we could get to Malpensa Airport ourselves and thus meet your pick up to Baveno. We were refused and were told only passengers with air tickets to Malpensa were eligible. As a result we were left with a very difficult and stressful and costly day especially as there was a train strike. To make matters worse, on arrival at Baveno, we found that a number of other people on the tour who had not flown in to Malpensa Airport had gone out to the airport byway and were able to get the shuttle to Baveno. We feel that your decision to exclude us from the Malpensa to Baveno shuttle was unreasonable and very disappointing especially in the light of the fact that we were penalised when we had tried to be honest and responsible about our transfer problem. I would suggest a more flexible and accommodating approach in future. Otherwise, a great trip. Regards Bernard and Janet Healy

Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2024) (Venice to Venice, 2024)

What people love about northern italy tours.

TourRadar was excellent. The tours they scheduled were well-run by knowledgeable and amiable guides. Of course, the Italy locations were superb. The office staff kept in constant contact, but unobtrusive. And when I changed plans on the fly, the staff was responsive and thorough. I definitely cannot wait to book my next adventure with TourRadar!

Italy Real Food Adventure tour is amazing! I'm happy to travel around the cities in Italy and eat all of the food there!

Northern Italy Destinations:

• Prosecco (68)

Northern Italy Tours starting in:

• Venice (45)
• Bolzano (13)
• Merano (12)
• Reschen am See (12)
• Innsbruck (9)
• Florence (7)
• Villach (6)
• Explorer (219)
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• Family (184)
• Fully Guided (156)
• Personalized (145)
• Private (131)
• Self-Guided (121)
• Bicycle (98)
• Hiking & Trekking (59)
• Partially Guided (50)
• In-depth Cultural (46)
• River Cruise (40)
• Coach / Bus (22)
• Food & Culinary (22)
• Active (21)
• Custom (10)
• 7 Day Tours (108)
• 10 Day Tours (125)
• 2 Week Tours (13)
• Spring 2024 (162)
• Summer 2024 (218)
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• Winter 2024 / 2025 (30)
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• November 2025 (11)
• December 2025 (10)

Other Regions in Italy

• South Italy (621)
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• Amalfi Coast (177)
• Tuscany (168)
• Puglia (124)
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• Lazio, Marche & Abruzzo (47)

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Italy in Winter: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

For people who don't mind cold weather, winter can be a great time to travel to Italy. Most of Italy has fewer tourists in winter, meaning less crowded museums and shorter or non-existent lines to get into major sights. During the winter, opera, symphony, and theater seasons are in full swing. For winter sports enthusiasts, Italy's mountains offer lots of opportunities.

There are several reasons it's worth making the trip to Italy in winter, during what is traditionally the off-season for tourism:

• It will be much less crowded at some of the popular and historic spots than it is during the summer months, particularly in major cities like Florence, Rome, and Milan.
• Other than the Christmas and New Year's holidays, you'll find bargain prices on airfares and hotels in most Italian destinations, apart from ski resorts.
• Italy has great places for  winter sports and skiing , including the Piedmont venues used in the 2006 Winter Olympics, the Alps and Dolomites, and Mt. Etna in Sicily. Note that these are locations where winter hotel bargains might be scarce, other than towards the beginning and end of the ski season.

Winter Weather

Winter weather in Italy ranges from relatively mild along the coasts of Sardinia, Sicily, and the southern mainland to very cold and snowy inland, especially in the northern mountains. Even popular tourist destinations like Venice, Florence, and the hill towns of Tuscany and Umbria can get a dusting of snow in winter.

For most of Italy, the highest rainfall occurs during November and December, so winter may not be as rainy as fall. Although you'll probably encounter some rain or snow, you may also be rewarded with crisp, clear days where the only outerwear you need is a light jacket and a pair of sunglasses.

What to Pack

If you decide to visit Italy during the winter months, definitely pack layers of clothing, so that you can add or remove sweaters and jackets as the weather changes. While snow is always a possibility in most parts of Italy in winter, you're more likely to find chilly-to-cold, rainy weather. Be sure to pack a medium-weight waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes (or boots) that can be worn in rain or snow, gloves, a scarf, a warm hat, and a good umbrella.

The highlights of winter in Italy are, of course, the Christmas season , New Years , and Carnevale season. Italian national holidays during winter include Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Epiphany on January 6 (when La Befana brings gifts to the kids). On these days, most shops, tourist sites, and services will be closed, as will many restaurants. If you want to dine out, be sure to confirm with your hotel which restaurants are open on these holidays. Carnevale , the Italian Mardi Gras, is celebrated throughout Italy (starting ten days to two weeks before the actual date, which is 40 days before Easter). The most popular Carnevale celebration is in Venice , while Viareggio in Tuscany is known for its elaborate and humorous Carnevale floats.

Many saints' days are celebrated during winter, and may result in some closings. Read about the top festivals that take place in Italy during  December ,  January ,  February , and  March .

Travel Tips

Early winter sunsets mean more time to enjoy cities after dark. Many cities light their historic monuments at night, so strolling through a city after dark can be beautiful and romantic. From late November until early January, most cities and towns are decorated with Christmas lights, which often lend a wonderland effect to already picturesque streets and piazzas. Winter is also a good time for cultural events and performances in Italy's elegant historic theaters.

• Rome and Naples have the mildest winter climates of Italy's major cities . Naples is one of the top cities for Christmas nativities and many people visit Rome for the popular midnight mass on Christmas Eve in Vatican City .
• While you'll find smaller crowds and lower hotel prices during most of the winter, Christmas and New Year's are considered the high season in many cities, so bargains will be few and hotels will book up well in advance.
• Carnevale in Venice is also a huge tourist draw, so book early if you plan to join in the festivities.
• ​Many museums and attractions have earlier closing times during winter, but since the crowds are less dense, this shouldn't affect your sightseeing. Outside the cities, museums and other sites are often only open on weekends or may be closed for part of the winter.
• Hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and some restaurants may close for all or part of winter in seaside resort towns and popular summer countryside destinations. But a lot of hotels that are open will offer winter discounts (again, except in ski resorts). 

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The Best Time to Visit Tuscany

Tips for Going to Carnevale in Venice

Autumn in Italy: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Celebrating Carnevale in Italy

The Best Time to Visit Milan

What Is Italy In Winter Like? Everything You Need To Know To Plan The Best Trip

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

While most vacationers flock to Italy in summer for some warm Mediterranean sun, the winter seasons may be the perfect time for you to go on your dream Italian getaway. From weather and packing essentials, to can’t-miss events and earn everything you need to know to prepare for a trip to Italy in winter.

Winter sports, the holiday season, fewer tourists – there are compelling reasons to bear the colder weather to have a unique trip to Italy.

Since fronting the weather is one of the biggest factors in deciding if winter in Italy is for you, it’s worth noting that the difference between northern and southern Italy’s winter climate is huge. You can have sunny days in the south and snow in the north – or on the most random of days, the exact opposite! We’ll get into the details in the month-to-month breakdown.

Why Visit Italy in Winter

So what are the pros to visiting during the coldest season?

Outdoor Sports

Northern Italy is a paradise for winter sports lovers – skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, ice climbers. The Italian Alps have some of the best slopes in the world, from Breuil-Cervinia and the Matterhorn to Foppolo in Val Brembana to Cortina D’Ampezzo in the Dolomites. In fact, Italy is hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics.

That being said, these mountainous areas are also typically the most crowded places to visit in winter . Italians love their ski holidays, and this is peak tourism season for famous areas like the Dolomites .

Holiday Festivities

One of the biggest draws to visiting Italy in winter is to experience the local customs and charming events of the holiday season – namely, Christmas, New Year’s, and Epiphany.

Italy is a traditionally Catholic country, so you will see local Christmas celebrations take place from the tiniest villages to the biggest cities. These include charming Christmas markets and elaborate nativity scenes.

Discover all the details about Christmas in Italy , from traditions to things to do and the best destinations to visit.

Fewer Tourists

Generally, in the winter season, there are fewer tourists (excluding the Alps.) It’s an especially perfect time to get bucket list cities crossed off – Venice , Rome, Florence .

Lower Prices

Again, besides in the mountains, accommodations tend to cost less during the winter season – but always book as far in advance as you can for the best deals.

Winter Sales

Another reason to visit in winter? The sales! Stores around the whole country slash prices of goods, starting from the beginning of January.

Italians are known for being some of the best-dressed Europeans, so if you love designer, a good deal, and Italian style, this is the best time to visit.

Month-By-Month Breakdown: Weather, Events, Tips & More

While it starts to get cold near the end of November, the winter months in Italy are December, January, and February.

Italy in December

In northern Italy, November’s rainy season can extend into the first week of December. Things start to take a very cold turn by the first week! It’s also common to have days of rain and snow mix. However, snow is most common in the mountains, and not necessarily in the plains that make up the rest of northern Italy. Same goes for central Italy.

Temperature highs are usually in the low 40s, while the lows most often hang around the high 20s (°F.)

While it’s not as cold as northern Italy in December, southern Italy also starts to get colder in December. Temperatures are as low as the low 40s and as high as the low 60s.

The biggest draw to visiting Italy in December are the holiday events and festivities. Nearly every large city, and many small towns as well, set up characteristic Christmas markets made of little wooden houses.

Here you’ll find a variety of locally-made goods like Christmas decorations, souvenirs, and of course, food. Many sell food to eat on the spot, like pretzels, chocolates, and chestnuts, as well as regional delicacies to pack in your suitcase and take home like cheeses, honeys and jams, and much more!

Some of the most famous Christmas markets are in Bolzano, Bressanone , Milan , Merano, and Rome. They usually run until Epiphany, in the beginning of January.

The other main holiday event are the Presepi , or nativity scenes, mostly popular (and originating) in southern Italy. The decorations that make up these scenes are elaborate, the most famous being in Naples on Via San Gregorio Armeno.

The 8th of December is the Immacolata Concezione or Festa dell’Immacolata , which celebrates the immaculate conception of Mary.

It is a national public holiday in Italy, meaning everyone gets off work, so plan your travels accordingly! Try to avoid traveling, as roads will be busier, and keep in mind many small shops will be closed. More commercial shops should be open, but it is still best to double check.

The 26th of December is Santo Stefano , another national public holiday that all workers have off.

Italians also love to celebrate the new year, or Capodanno .

Italy in January

January is Italy’s coldest month.

Lots of bare trees and bitter chills, it’s also the emptiest time of the year to visit as a tourist. So there are pros and cons to everything!

In northern Italy, temperatures usually range from low 20s to low 40s.

In southern Italy, temperatures range from high 30s to low 50s.

The 6th of January is Epiphany , where again many towns will have celebrations about the Three Wise Men arriving to Jesus’ crib.

The central figure of Epiphany in Italy is La Befana, a good witch who brings children presents on Epiphany Eve, similar to Santa Clause.

Also around this time (January 8th usually), the stores will begin the winter sales that typically extend until the end of February.

Italy in February

During February, the weather begins to fluctuate a bit more, with periods of slightly warmer, sunnier days and colder, gloomier days.

Northern Italy temperatures vary from low 20s to mid-50s.

In southern Italy, temperatures are similar to January, from high 30s to high 50s.

The most famous event in Italy during February is Carnevale . Carnevale is a week-long celebration before the beginning of Lent. Venice is the most famous city to experience Carnevale, where people get dressed up in elaborate costumes and masks.

Even if you can’t attend the celebrations in the most famous cities, you’ll find the traditional foods of Carnevale in nearly every Italian bakery during the month of February. More info on that below!

Italians also celebrate San Valentino , or Valentine’s Day, on February 14th, which makes sense since it’s one of the most romantic countries in the world! Plan your trip to one of the most romantic places in Italy.

And calling all fashionistas! Milan Fashion Week for the Spring season typically takes place the last week of February.

The Best Places to Visit During Winter in Italy

It may be busy, but this unique mountain range is worth the waits and the crowds. Many flock to the Dolomites during winter for its beauty and for its wide range of slopes, like the Alpi dei Suisi.

The towns also feel like true winter wonderlands, with the cozy wooden houses covered in snow.

Good to know: One of the sweetest things to do in the mountains during winter is visit thermal spas. QC Terme is a luxury spa brand (with attainable prices) that has picturesque locations in the Dolomites, the Western Alps, and in the Central Alps at San Pellegrino for the ultimate winter spa experience.

Valle D’Aosta

All mountain lovers should not overlook the small region of Valle D’Aosta. Courmayeur is a must visit village, a cozy chalet town at the foot of the highest mountain in Western Europe, Monte Bianco. Breuil-Cervinia is another mountain-town that can’t be missed by winter sports-lovers.

Venice and Viareggio

There are no two better places to experience Carnevale in Italy. Visit Venice for the classical celebrations of masked characters strolling the city and Viareggio, a town in Tuscany, for its famous Carnevale parades.

Both of these Carnevale celebration towns can work as day trips from Milan.

Just remember to book these trips for mid-late February!

Rome during winter typically experiences a more temperate climate (but remember it can snow as south as Sicily, so you never know), but the best part about visiting during this season is skipping the crowds at its most famous attractions.

Naples and the Amalfi Coast

For reasons similar to visiting Rome, the climate is often more temperate in Naples. This city, plus the Amalfi Coast, are buzzing with nearly unbearable crowds during the summer months, which can make them more pleasant to explore during winter. But, you won’t be hitting the beach, so you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons.

This also applies to areas like the Cinque Terre – empty towns, but too cold to jump in the sea!

Good to know: If you plan on driving in Italy , there is a law that you must have snow chains in your car during the winter months.

If you’re looking for the warmest escape possible, try Sicily, but keep in mind – it snows here too! The weather can be way more all over the place in the south compared to the north, so I would still pack winter essentials with you.

What to Pack for Winter in Italy

Whether you travel to northern or southern Italy, you will likely experience the cold. One of the best tools to help you pack for the weather during your trip is the PackPoint app. It will provide you a packing list based on the weather forecast for your trip and the activities you want to do.

In any case, pack these cold weather essentials for your winter trip to Italy:

• Gloves (Opt for touchscreen gloves!)
• Consider boots made of more durable materials (not soft fabric) in case you need to trudge through snow or get caught in cold rain.
• Long-sleeve shirts

The most important thing you can do to combat winter weather in Italy is wear layers ! Bring some long sleeve shirts and tank tops that fit to your body to easily go under sweaters. I also recommend layering tights under your pants and wearing two pairs of socks to keep your feet warm.

If you’re planning on skiing or engaging in winter sports, remember to bring snow pants or a full ski outfit.

Italian Food To Try During Winter

During winter, Italian cuisine goes from light, fresh pastas to heartier, heavier meals like stews. There are also traditional desserts for the various holidays, from Christmas to Carnevale.

• Pizzoccheri – A buckwheat pasta local to northern Italy, in the area of Valtellina, is traditionally cooked with potatoes, spinach, and carrots. It is the perfect carby, comfort food!
• Polenta – This grain is traditional to northern Italy in the regions of Veneto and Lombardy and is often paired with meat, like braised meat or Brasato , or is cooked alone as a first course with cheese or other ingredients like sausage and spinach.
• Panettone – The most famous Christmas dessert, Panettone is a domed, sweet bread traditionally made plain, with chocolate, or with candied fruit (there are more adventurous flavors available as well, like pistachio.) It’s often given as a gift throughout the holiday season.
• Pandoro – Less famous but still a traditional Christmas dessert, Pandoro is another sweet bread, but a bit more cake-like.
• Chiacchiere – Popping up in bakeries throughout the month of February, Chiacchiere are one of the famous treats of Carnevale. It is sweet dough dusted with powdered sugar, a little crunchier but of similar taste to a funnel cake.
• Frittelle – Frittelle are also a Carnevale dessert, a type of fried doughnut that can be plain or filled with different flavored creams.
• Blood Oranges – Grown in Sicily near Mount Etna, these citrus fruits are at their peak season during January and February!

The SGTD Take: Is Visiting Italy In Winter Worth It?

Absolutely, yes!

Whether you are a budget-conscious traveler, an outdoor sports enthusiast, or trying to see Italy with as few crowds as possible, winter is the perfect time to visit. Traveling in the cold is not always the most pleasant experience, so if you’re not used to cold weather, I would save your Italy trip for the summer.

However, the benefits of saving money during this season and avoiding the huge, sweaty crowds of summer, is definitely a one-of-a-kind, winter in Italy perk.

What are you most looking forward to during your trip to Italy in winter?

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 !

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I hope this guide to Italy in winter has helped you plan your trip, or if you’re a fellow expat , know what to expect during the cold season!

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:

21 hidden gems in italy for an unforgettable alternative itinerary, bolgheri, italy travel guide: your best itinerary to the tuscany coast.

How great that you mention frittelles and what they are. My son’s birthday is this weekend and he loves trying new sweets. I will find a great Italian bakery creations place for us to visit.

I am so glad! I hope he has a great birthday and that you find some delicious frittelle 🙂

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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

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

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Money latest: Gameboys, Sindy dolls, designer shoes, 1950s furniture - the items in your attic that could be worth a small fortune

Gumtree's most popular items include rare stamps, Gameboys and Pokemon cards. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment or submit a consumer dispute or money problem in the box.

Monday 29 April 2024 19:46, UK

• Three of UK's biggest lenders up mortgage rates
• Annual mortgage repayments have increased by up to 70% since 2021
• Higher food prices and shortages warning - as new Brexit checks begin this week
• People on disability benefits could receive vouchers rather than cash

Essential reads

• Gameboys, Sindy dolls, designer shoes, 1950s furniture: The items in your attic that could be worth a small fortune
• Money Problem : 'A company isn't abiding by written warranty for dodgy building work - what can I do?'  
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches
• The world of dark tourism - what is it, is it ethical and where can you go?

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Strikes at Heathrow Airport are taking place over the next few weeks, with the first one already under way.

Staff at the UK's biggest airport are set to walk out during the early bank holiday in May, with their union warning planes could be "delayed, disrupted and grounded".

Click here to find out when all the strikes are, what disruption is expected and which airlines are affected...

The average price paid for comprehensive motor insurance rose 1% in the first quarter of the year, according to industry data indicating an easing in the steep rises seen last year.

The latest tracker issued by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) showed a 1% increase on the previous three months to £635.

That was despite the average claim paid rising 8% to reach a record of £4,800, the body said.

The ABI said the disparity showed that its members were "absorbing" additional costs and not passing them on.

Nevertheless, the average policy was still 33%, or £157, higher between January and March compared to the same period last year.

Read the full story here ...

Getir , the grocery delivery app, has abandoned a European expansion that is set to result in the loss of around 1,500 jobs in the UK.

Sky News had previously revealed that the Turkey-based company, which means "to bring" in Turkish, had  successfully raised money from investors to fund its withdrawals  from the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.

It had already departed other countries including Italy and Spain.

The exits were prompted by growing losses linked to the company's rapid expansion.

Waitrose is launching an exclusive range of products with popular chef Yotam Ottolenghi today. 

The Israeli-British chef is famous for his Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired food, and has worked with the supermarket to release products including a pasta sauce, spice blend and shawarma marinade. 

It is the first time Ottolenghi has partnered with a supermarket in such a way. 

The full range will be available in Waitrose shops, Waitrose.com and Ottolenghi.co.uk from today, while a selection of products will be available from the supermarket on Deliveroo and Uber Eats. 

An introductory 20% off offer is being launched until 18 June. 

The range includes: 

• Ottolenghi Miso Pesto 165g (£4)
• Ottolenghi Kalamata Olive & Harissa Sauce  350g (£4.50)
• Ottolenghi Pomegranate, Rose & Preserved Lemon Harissa 170g (£5)
• Ottolenghi Green Harissa 170g (£5)
• Ottolenghi Aleppo & Other Chillies Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Sweet & Smokey Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Citrus & Spice Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Red Chilli Sauce (£4.50)
• Ottolenghi Shawarma Marinade (£4)

Ottolenghi said he had "always been super eager to get our flavours onto people's dinner plates nationwide, not just in London, without having to cook it from scratch every single time". 

He added: "I hate to admit it but the pasta sauce already features heavily in my home kitchen, when no one is looking."

The cost of bread, biscuits and beer could increase this year due to the impact of the unusually wet autumn and winter on UK harvests.

Research suggests that production of wheat, oats, barley and oilseed rape could drop by four million tonnes (17.5%) compared with 2023.

The wet weather has resulted in lower levels of planting, while flooding and storms over winter caused farmers more losses.

The predictions come just as the rate of price increases on many food items begins to slow as inflation falls.

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) analysed forecasts from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHBD) and government yield data.

It found a "real risk" of beer, biscuits and bread becoming more expensive if the poor harvest increases costs for producers, according to its lead analyst Tom Lancaster.

Beer prices could be affected because the wet weather is still disrupting the planting of spring crops such as barley, the ECIU said.

And potatoes might also see a price hike in the coming months, with growers warning of a major shortage in the autumn due to persistent wet weather.

By Emily Mee , Money team

When I think about the toys of my childhood - my pink Barbie car, my Gameboy Micro, my collection of Pokemon cards - I can't tell you where they went. 

Maybe they were shipped off to a charity shop at some point... Or perhaps they're in the attic? 

While my hot pink Gameboy Micro is lost to the void of time (or a cardboard box somewhere in my mum's house), other versions of it are selling on eBay for £100 or more. 

And there are Pokemon cards selling for anything from a tenner to hundreds or even thousands of pounds. 

It's possible you also have items at home that are a collector's dream. 

Gumtree says its collectables category is already proving to be a "hotbed of activity" this year, with listings up 22% in 2024 so far. 

Its most popular items include rare stamps, coins, war memorabilia and Pokemon cards. 

Spring is often the most popular time for buying and selling collectibles, with demand spiking in March and April. 

We've enlisted the help of TV presenter and collectables expert Tracy Martin to give an idea of what could make you an easy buck. 

Old toys making a 'retro comeback'

Tracy explains that while trends change, vintage toys tend to stand the test of time. 

"Toys are always going to be popular because they tap into nostalgia, our childhood memories," she says, explaining that adults like to buy the toys they used to have. 

Perhaps you were into cars, and you've got some old diecast vehicles from Matchbox, Corgi or Dinky Toys. 

A quick look on toy auction site Vectis.co.uk shows a Corgi Toys "James Bond" Aston Martin estimated to sell for between £600 to £700 - while others are likely to fetch £50 to £60. 

Sindy dolls are also particularly sought after - particularly those from the 1960s - and Barbie dolls from the 1990s too. 

Pokemon cards have seen a "massive surge", Tracy says, with people paying "thousands and thousands of pounds" for good unopened sets. 

She's even seen examples of people paying £16,000 upwards. 

Another up-and-coming market is games consoles, such as Gameboys, vintage consoles and PlayStations, which are making a "retro comeback".

What else could earn you some cash?

Tracy says there's currently a surge in people wanting to buy "mid century" furniture, which is dated to roughly 1945 to 1965 and typically uses clean lines and has a timeless feel. 

Vintage Danish furniture is sought after, particularly tables and chairs with good designer names such as Wegner, Verner Panton and Arne Jacobsen.

Prices range from the low hundreds into the thousands.

People will also look out for vintage framed prints by artists such as Tretchikoff, J.H. Lynch and Shabner - these can range in price from £50 upwards to a few hundred pounds plus. 

Vintage clothes, handbags and shoes can fetch a good price - but you can also invest in modern pieces. 

Tracy suggests looking out for good classic designs with high-end designer names such as Gucci, Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton. 

Modern designers such as Irregular Choice, Vendula and Lulu Guinness are also collected. 

Collaborations with designers and celebrities can do well as they're often limited edition. 

For example, Tracy says the H&M x Paco Rabanne maxi silver sequin dress retailed at £279.99 last year but now sells for in excess of £600. 

When it comes to shoes, "the quirkier the design the better" - so look out for brands such as Irregular Choice and Joe Browns. 

Converse and Dr Martens collaborations also do well, depending on the design and condition, as well as Adidas and Nike limited edition trainers. 

What's the best way to sell?  

Tracy recommends to always research before selling your items, as they might perform better on different platforms and you can also get an idea of how much they sell for. 

For example, Vinted can be a good place to sell clothes and shoes, while other items might be better suited for sale on Gumtree, eBay or Etsy. 

Tracy's favourite way to sell is through auction - especially if there are specialist sales. 

Vectis is one of the biggest and most popular for toy selling. 

Interests in different periods and items can go up and down, but for the time being vintage pieces from the 1980s and 90s are popular. 

How much you'll be able to get from an item often takes into account its rarity, condition, whether it reflects a period in time, and if it's got a good name behind it. 

You never know - you might be sitting on a treasure trove. 

Annual mortgage repayments have increased by up to 70% since 2021, according to new data from Zoopla .

The biggest impact of rising interest rates has been in southern England where house prices are higher.

Across the South West, South East and East of England, the annual mortgage cost for an average home is £5,000 higher than previously. This rises to £7,500 in London.

But the universal uptick in mortgage costs has been less pronounced in other parts of the UK, with the North East seeing a £2,350 increase.

In a bid to tackle inflation, the Bank of England has raised the base rate from 0.1% in December 2021 to a 16-year high of 5.25% now.

The Zoopla research looked at the average home buyer taking out a 70% loan-to-value mortgage.

This week seems to be starting where last week left off - with three major lenders announcing further hikes in mortgage rates.

Amid uncertainty of the timing of interest rate cuts from the Bank of England  this year, swap rates (which dictate how much it costs lenders to lend) have been rising in recent weeks.

Financial markets currently see two rate cuts by the Bank of England this year.

We've reported on a string of rate bumps from the high street over the last 10 days, and this morning NatWest, Santander and Nationwide moved.

In its second hikes announcement in less than a week, NatWest laid out increases across its full range of residential and buy-to-let fixed deals of up to 0.22%.

Santander, meanwhile, announced increases for both fixed and tracker deals across their residential and buy-to-let products - up to 0.25%.

The same hikes are being imposed for a range of Nationwide deals.

All of these will kick in tomorrow.

Amit Patel, adviser at Trinity Finance, told Newspage it was "not a great start to the week". 

"This is not good news for borrowers," he said.

Where will the base rate go this year?

The majority of the bets, according to LSEG data, are on the first cut coming in August (previously this was June) and the second in December.

This would take Bank rate from the current level of 5.25% to 4.75%.

Disabled people could receive vouchers instead of monthly payments under proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

The changes could see people being provided with either one-off grants for specific costs such as home adaptation, or being directed to "alternative means of support" rather than financial support.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride is set to announce plans today to overhaul the way disability benefits work.

In a Green Paper due to be published alongside Mr Stride's statement to the Commons, ministers will set out plans to reform Personal Independence Payments (PIP), the main disability benefit, through changes to eligibility criteria and assessments.

The plans also include proposals to "move away from a fixed cash benefit system", meaning people with some conditions, such as depression and anxiety, will no longer receive regular payments but rather get improved access to treatment if their condition does not involve extra costs.

Speaking to Sky News earlier, Mr Stride said: "I want us to have a grown-up, sensible conversation about a benefit called PIP that has not been reviewed in over a decade.

"And I want to ask the question, is it fit for purpose given the world that we're in today, in which mental health issues sadly present more of an issue than they did a decade ago."

By James Sillars , business reporter

A fresh high for the FTSE 100 to start the week.

The index of leading shares in London was 0.5% up at 8,179 in early dealing.

The gains were led by miners and financial stocks.

Dragging on the performance were some consumer-facing brands including JD Sports and Flutter Entertainment.

One other development of note to mention is that stubbornly high oil price.

A barrel of Brent crude is currently trading almost 1% down on the day.

But it remains at $88 a barrel.

The market has been pulled by various forces this month, with hopes of a rebound in demand in China among them.

The latest decline is said to reflect peace talks being held between Israel and Hamas.

A demand for smaller homes has driven growth in UK property prices early in 2024, according to research by Halifax.

Data from the bank's house price index suggests annual property price growth hit 1.9% in February this year - a significant rise from -4.1% just three months prior.

That equates to a rise in prices of £5,318 over the past year.

It follows interest rates stabilising, Halifax says, after a sharp rise over the past two years which squeezed mortgage affordability.

A key driver behind rising prices, Halifax says, has been first-time buyers, who made up 53% of all homes bought with a mortgage in 2023 - the highest proportion since 1995.

And it's smaller homes that have recorded the biggest increases in price growth in the early part of this year - with buyers adjusting their expectations to compensate for higher borrowing costs.

Flats and terraced houses made up 57% of all homes purchased by first-time buyers last year.

This varies by region - for example, in London, flats and terraced homes accounted for 90% of all first-time buyer purchases.

Challenges remain

However, Amanda Bryden, head of Halifax mortgages, said "it's important not to gloss over the challenges" facing the UK housing market, given the "impact of higher interest rates on mortgage affordability" and "continued lack of supply of new homes".

"But scratch beneath the surface and there is a more nuanced story, one which shows that demand for different property types in different parts of the country can vary hugely," she added.

"As interest rates have stabilised and buyers adjust to the new economic reality of owning a home, one way to compensate for higher borrowing costs is to target smaller properties.

"This is especially true among first-time buyers, who have proven to be resilient over recent years, and now account for the largest proportion of homes purchased with a mortgage in almost 30 years."

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