travel north to

Travel To North

Welcome to Travel To North, your ultimate guide to exploring the breathtaking destinations of the northern hemisphere. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, our blog is here to inspire and ignite your wanderlust. With a plethora of meticulously crafted travel guides, we unveil the hidden gems and must-visit locations across the northern regions of our planet. From the enchanting landscapes of Scandinavia to the vibrant cities of Arctic, our expertly curated content will ensure you embark on unforgettable journeys. Join us as we dive into the wonders of the North and discover the extraordinary beauty that awaits. Start your exploration now and let Travel To North be your trusted companion in planning your next unforgettable adventure.

Spitsbergen

Discover the Ultimate Adventure: Overnight Stays in Antarctica!

Unlocking the Mysteries: Can You Always Witness Northern Lights in Spitsbergen?

Exploring Norway: All You Need to Know About Schengen Visa Requirements

Discover the Best Age for a Lapland Adventure: Answers for Parents of 7-Year-Olds

Unlocking the Secret: How Many Days Do You Need for Iceland?

Arctic vs. Antarctic: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Polar Adventure

Unveiling the Darkness: Exploring How Long Days in Spitsbergen are Shrouded in the Dark

Discover Norway: Essential Guide to Understanding Visa Requirements

I am a seasoned travel guide with a passion for exploring the wonders of the North. With extensive knowledge and expertise in the northern regions, I specialize in crafting unforgettable journeys for adventurous souls seeking unique experiences. From the frozen landscapes of the Arctic to the breathtaking fjords of Scandinavia, I am dedicated to providing personalized itineraries that showcase the natural beauty, rich cultures, and hidden gems of the North. With me as your guide, you can expect insightful storytelling, local insights, and a seamless travel experience that will leave you with lifelong memories. Let’s embark on an extraordinary expedition together and unlock the secrets of the North!

Subscribe To Newsletter

Most popular posts ​.

Discover the Real Truth: Is Lapland Too Cold for You?

Exploring Lapland: How to Enjoy Finland on a Budget

Planning a trip to Iceland? Here’s why you need an EHIC card!

NATO’s Presence in the Arctic: Understanding its Significance

Exploring the Arctic: Passport Requirements You Need to Know

Discover The Cost of Taking A Train from Oslo to Bergen in Norway

Unraveling the Mystery: Is Drinking Alcohol in Public Allowed in Iceland?

Exploring the Myth: Does Norway Really Experience 6 Months of Darkness?

Discovering the Hottest Spot in the Arctic: Unraveling the Mystery

Complete Guide: Exploring Payment Methods in Iceland

Discover the Wonders: What Makes Norway Famous

Discovering the Limits: How Long Can You Safely Stay in Antarctica?

Subscribe to travel to north newsletter for unforgettable northern adventures.

Texto: Embark on a journey to the captivating North with our Travel to North newsletter! Discover a world of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and remarkable experiences across the northern regions. Stay informed with our expert travel tips, destination highlights, and insider recommendations that will help you plan your next adventure. As a subscriber, you’ll receive exclusive offers and deals on trips to destinations such as the Arctic, Scandinavia, Alaska, and more. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the wonders of the North. Subscribe now and let us guide you on unforgettable journeys through this enchanting part of the planet!

Rocky Mountain Destinations

Warm-Weather Road Trip

The Longest Highway in the US

Car Rental Companies

Best Audio Books

Must-Have Emergency Supplies

Family Road Trip Toys and Games

Car Bike Racks

Getting Your Car Ready

Preparing for the Weather

8 Helpful Apps for a Road Trip

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Taking a Road Trip With Kids

Planning a Solo Road Trip

How to Plan a Camping Road Trip

Planning a Stargazing Road Trip

10 Helpful Budget Tips

Calculating the Cost of Gas

Budget for a 3-Day Road Trip

Best Road Trip Route By Interest

Mississippi River Road Trip

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Southern US Road Trip

Northern US Road Trip

Pacific Coast Road Trip

US Route 12

Northeastern US Routes

10 Top Road Trip Routes in the Northeastern US

The United States abounds with scenic routes and picturesque drives , but the beauty of the Northeast offers landscapes you can't see anywhere else in the country. Chasing rivers and scaling mountains, they wind through the country's most adorable small towns and along its most storied coastline. As the East Coast is famous for its fiery autumn colors, many of these trips are especially striking during the fall . However, each season offers something uniquely enjoyable and you can enjoy these drives at any time of the year.

Read on to find inspiration for your next Northeast road trip.

Upper Delaware River Valley

If you've seen those car commercials that show a slick vehicle navigating a wildly undulating mountain road, there's a good chance it was State Route 97 in the Upper Delaware River Valley of Upstate New York. This twisting highway traces the Delaware River, which forms a natural border between New York State and Pennsylvania. The most famous part is a section known as the Hawk's Nest, which covers the 70 miles from Point Jervis to Hancock. It takes about an hour and a half to complete the route, so even though it isn't the fastest way to travel between the cities, it's undoubtedly the prettiest.

Apart from the stomach-churning turns and breathtaking views, travelers should also stop at landmarks along the route including the Minisink Battleground Park , which hosted a skirmish during the Revolutionary War, and Roebling's Delaware Aqueduct , a canal bridge and engineering marvel built in 1848.

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park in Upstate New York has been nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the East" for its dramatic gorge that drops 600 feet into the Genesee River below. The best place to get into the park is at the southern entrance in the town of Portageville, which is just over an hour from either Rochester or Buffalo . You can drive the length of the entire park and come out at the north end, which isn't even 20 miles long. But factor in plenty of time for pulling over, taking pictures, and hiking around the gorge. You'll see plenty of waterfalls during your trip through Letchworth, but if they leave you wanting more, Niagara Falls is just an hour and a half away by car.

The Adirondacks

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

In the remote northeastern part of New York's Adirondack Park , there are 46 rounded peaks that soar roughly 4,000 feet or more toward the sky, but you don't need to hike them for glorious views. This scenic drive starts in North Creek, New York—about an hour and a half north of Albany. From North Creek, drive on Route 28N as it loops around through the forest and mountains. Once you reach Blue Mountain Lake, Route 28N turns into Route 28S, but continue weaving through the many charming lakes until you reach Old Forge. The entire route is nearly 90 miles and has plenty of opportunities for stopping the car and enjoying nature.

Along the way, allow time for a scenic Gondola Skyride at Gore Mountain. And don't miss the splendid Adirondack Experience, The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake , a sprawling complex that brings to life the people who've explored, settled, and cherished this wilderness. It's one of the top things to do in New York State .

The Vermont Shore

Yes, Vermont has a coast: a freshwater one along Lake Champlain. And the town of Shelburne—just a few miles south of Burlington —is a picturesque spot to start a drive that affords fabulous views of the lake and its majestic backdrop, the Adirondack Mountains across the border in New York.

Start at ​ Shelburne Farms , a 1,400-acre working farm built on Lake Champlain as a model agricultural estate in the late 19th century. Pick up Route 7 South to Mount Philo State Park  in Charlotte, where you can drive to the summit for panoramic lake views. Continue on Route 7 South to Route 22A through Vergennes and out to Button Bay State Park . Once there, you can hike along a bluff overlooking Lake Champlain or even rent a boat and get out on the water. Not including time out of the car, the drive should take just about an hour.

The Mohawk Trail

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism

A path blazed by five Native American tribes became New England's first official scenic route in 1914. Automobiles have come a long way since then, but the 63-mile Mohawk Trail—Route 2 between Williamstown and Athol in Western Massachusetts —still leads to bucolic scenes that seem little altered over the past century. Famous for its sharp Hairpin Turn, which looks out over the Hoosac Valley, it's a drive you'll particularly want to savor in the fall . Allow time to hike a portion of the Mahican-Mohawk Trail that runs through the Mohawk Trail State Forest in Charlemont. It follows the original footpath trod by New England's earliest inhabitants.

The Kancamagus Highway

New England's ultimate scenic route—especially in the fall—is the 34.5 miles of Route 112 between Conway and Lincoln, New Hampshire. Known by its Native American name, the Kancamagus Highway (pronounced kank-ah-MAU-gus but called "the Kanc" by locals) was completed in 1959, connecting these towns on the east and west sides of the 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest . There are overlooks, hiking opportunities, historic sites, and campgrounds along this famed roadway, but even if you just motor through (be prepared to ride your brakes when fall traffic peaks), you'll be thrilled by the views of densely forested mountains and the boulder-strewn Swift River.

Connecticut's National Scenic Byway

Think of this as your "serenity now" route. Connecticut's first National Scenic Byway—Route 169 from North Woodstock to Lisbon—is a supreme leaf-peeping route that glides for 30 miles past farmlands, stone walls, and nearly 200 homes built before the Civil War. Worthy stops on your trip include Historic New England's Roseland Cottage in Woodstock, Mashamoquet Brook State Park in Pomfret for lore and hiking, and Martha's Herbary in Pomfret for aromatic gifts. Time your drive to coincide with the Brooklyn Fair , the oldest continuously-held agricultural fair in the U.S., which takes place in late August each year.

Narragansett Bay

Kim Knox Beckius

Set your GPS for 1460 Ocean Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island, and begin this road trip at one of New England's prettiest lighthouses: Point Judith Lighthouse . Although you can't venture inside, you can stroll the grounds of this still-active beacon built in 1857. From here, you'll follow Ocean Road north to Narragansett Town Beach , where surfers ride vigorous waves year-round. The Towers —all that remains of the Gilded Age Narragansett Pier Casino—provide an enchanting backdrop. Drive Route 1A North, and you'll pass Historic New England's Casey Farm , established in 1750 and still operating and open for tours.

From there, take Route 138 East across the Jamestown Bridge, exit onto Conanicut Island, and follow local roads south to Beavertail State Park on Beavertail Road. Here, you'll see the 1856 stone Beavertail Lighthouse and you can venture inside the museum in the assistant keeper's house. Look east, and you'll bring your lighthouse count up to three: Castle Hill Light is visible in the distance.

Massachusetts' Coastline

If you're a fan of fried clams, lobster, and fresh fish, this is the road trip for you. It starts in Gloucester, Massachusetts —the oldest seaport in the U.S.—and follows Route 127A to Route 127 along the coast north of Boston . It then turns inland toward Essex on Route 133 and north once again on Route 1 to Newburyport . Along the way, you'll see Gloucester's Good Harbor Beach, one of the prettiest in New England, and the petite fishing village of Rockport, where the art scene thrives.

You'll be distracted at practically every turn by seafood shacks, but you may want to save your appetite for Essex, where fried clams were invented by Chubby Woodman. His descendants still prepare them the same way at Woodman's of Essex , and some say the golden beauties at The Clam Box up the road in Ipswich are even better, so you'll want to try both. If you're still hungry when you reach Newburyport, finish with a scenic drive along Plum Island, stopping at the no-frills but delicious Bob Lobster on the way. The entire drive is about 45 miles.

Acadia's Park Loop Road

www.cfwphotography.com/Getty Images

The 27-mile Park Loop Road through Maine's Acadia National Park is as exhilarating a drive as you'll find anywhere. Even though it's not a long route, expect to spend at least three to four hours driving, including stops to get out and enjoy the scenery (it can be even longer during the busy summer months due to traffic). The Atlantic waves crashing against the forests make for a truly dramatic landscape, made all the better by the towering Cadillac Mountain—and you can drive to the summit. This national park does charge an entrance fee, but your admission is good for seven days of visits, so make the most of your visit by staying nearby or even camping in the park.

The Mohawk Trail Association. "More Than a Trail... A Journey." Accessed September 11, 2022.

Best Fall Foliage Drives in the New England States

The Ultimate East Coast Beach Road Trip

20 Best Things to Do in Vermont

Scenic California Drives: 7 Routes That Will Make You Swoon

Acadia National Park: The Complete Guide

15 Epic Fall Foliage Drives With Kids

Guide to an Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Glacier National Park: The Complete Guide

New York Fall Foliage Driving Tours

Science Says This Is the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

The Best Places to See Fall Colors Near Boston

Your Trip to Vermont: The Complete Guide

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

One Week in New York State: The Ultimate Itinerary

Top 5 Scenic New England Mountain Drives

Top Destinations

• Food + Drink

Explore the best of the world. Access insider tips and hotel recommendations from our travel tastemakers

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• 1 Grafton, Vermont
• 2 Sugar Hill, New Hampshire
• 3 Stockbridge, Massachusetts
• 4 Montpelier, Vermont
• 5 Hudson, New York
• 6 Frenchtown, New Jersey
• 7 Bristol, Rhode Island
• 8 Mystic, Connecticut
• 9 Castine, Maine

Northeast Vacations: The 9 Cutest Towns For Your Trip

With lighthouse-scattered coasts, bucolic countryside, rich historical ties, and too many quaint villages to count, the Northeast radiates a relaxed energy no other region could hope to replicate. Here, 9 of the cutest towns to check out next time you’re in the neighborhood.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Grafton, Vermont

One look at Grafton’s historic covered bridges, romantic country inns, family-run farmsteads, and sheep-dotted pastures, and you’ll realize that the village is a representation of small town New England at its finest. Nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains, the charming town is home to less than 600 year-round residents who regularly convene for Town Meetings (see Gilmore Girls’ Stars Hollow, for reference). Tuck your things away at Main Street’s circa-1801 Grafton Inn —right next door to the village’s iconic white steepled church—and make a beeline for Grafton Village Cheese Co. We'd argue that there's no better way to spend an afternoon than nibbling on naturally-aged, handmade variations (there’s more than 80) like truffle cheddar, 18-month emmentaler, and sheep gouda while you watch the company’s cheesemakers in action.

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Tucked away in New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountains, with stunning scenic views (especially come fall), hole-in-the-wall antique shops, and a population that hovers around just 560, Sugar Hill has all the trappings of a quintessential New England town. Swing by in June to catch the annual Celebration of Lupines , when the reborn blooms blanket Sugar Hill’s countryside in a brilliant display of blues, purples, pinks, and whites. From there, extend your outdoor time with an excursion in neighboring Franconia Notch State Park. Take a dip in Echo Lake , listen to the roaring waters of the Flume Gorge , or take a ride on an 80-person cable car at the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. On a clear day, you can see straight across NH to Maine, Vermont, New York, and even Canada.

RELATED : Countdown to Summer: 8 Incredible Trips to Take This Summer

Stockbridge, Massachusetts

In recent years, the Massachusetts Berkshires have been luring more city slickers out of NYC and Boston than ever. Those in search of a picturesque bucolic escape look no further than Stockbridge, a resort town with relative name recognition thanks to famous resident Norman Rockwell. In fact, many visitors make the hike out to the western MA town just to glimpse the largest collection of the prolific artist's work and personal items at the Norman Rockwell Museum . Priceless art aside, it’s also worth spending some downtime at the Berkshire Botanical Garden and window-shopping the bric-a-brac-filled country stores on Historic Main Street. Once you work up an appetite, head 5 minutes down the road to No. Six Depot in West Stockbridge. The rustic small-batch coffee roaster/café/art gallery serves a mean panini (go for the porchetta with truffle aioli, hazelnut gremolata, and lemon-caper aioli) and—of course—the best caffeine fix in town.

Montpelier, Vermont

If you make the trip to Vermont—the maple syrup capital of the United States— and you don’t leave with a stash of the homemade treat, you’re doing something seriously wrong. To remedy this, start your Montpelier stay with a stop by Bragg Farm Sugar House , a family-run business that’s taught eight generations the secret to crafting perfect maple kettle corn, cookies, and candies. From there, it’s over to stylish creperie, The Skinny Pancake , to further indulge with sweet and savory options like the Pure and Simple, with Cabot butter, granulated sugar, local syrup, and the Sass-Squash, with butternut squash, VT chevre and apples, and organic spinach. Before you’re forced to leave the foothills of the Green Mountains, fit in one last food-fueled event. Swing by the Capital City Farmer’s Market so you can pick up farm-fresh produce that supports local growers.

Hudson, New York

Despite being just over two hours outside Manhattan, Hudson feels worlds away. As “Upstate’s Downtown,” the once sleepy, now trendy city is an amalgam of old-world architecture (Federal, Victorian, and Queen Anne), verdant countryside, and lively art and music scenes. If you’re visiting from the city, you have to make good on outdoor options with hikes through the hemlock-forested wilderness of Taconic State Park and Bash Bish Falls (just over the border in MA). When you need to refuel, mosey back into town for a meal in Wm Farmer & Sons ’ handsome, modern-meets-vintage dining room (akin to those you’d find in Brooklyn). Once you’ve stuffed your face with cast-iron burgers and smoked brisket on brioche, retire to Rivertown Lodge . Once a two-story movie theater, you’ll easily spot the stylish stay thanks to its enduring marquee. Inside, the aesthetic is just as pleasing as guest rooms are kitted out with custom-built furniture, white oak floors, brass bathroom faucets, and Americana-style accents.

RELATED : America’s 8 Cutest Airbnbs to Check Into This Spring

Frenchtown, New Jersey

Just a 1.5-hour drive from both NYC and Philly, Frenchtown presents an easy weekend getaway that rivals trips to the Poconos and Hudson Valley. Given its size (tiny), the Delaware River gem is shockingly rife with worthwhile restaurants and boutique shops that run the gamut from home decor to fine jewelry. Since you can’t shop on an empty stomach, make a pit stop at the Lovin’ Oven , a farm-to-table eatery that calls a converted manufacturing warehouse home. On Wednesday’s, they serve a three-course “Welcome Home” dinner full of comfort foods (both traditional and modified) like fish and chips, Nashville fried chicken, and vegan sloppy joes. Post-meal, it's time to peruse eclectic titles at The Book Garden . The indie shop sets up its shelves inside a 19th-century Victorian home on Bridge Street. Pro-tip: if you're looking for a cookbook, head straight for the kitchen.

Bristol, Rhode Island

Bestowed with the nickname “America’s Most Patriotic Town,” colonial-era Bristol has been proudly hosting the oldest, continuous Fourth of July celebration in the US since they threw their first shindig in 1777. Today, the annual affair includes outdoor concerts, soapbox races, an elaborate parade down Hope Street , and more, but you’ll still find plenty to see and do should your visit fall outside of July. Historical sites are a dime a dozen in this neck of the woods. Spend an afternoon at the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum a 45-room, heirloom-filled estate that sits on 33 garden-framed acres overlooking Narragansett Bay, and plan time for a visit to Linden Place , as well. If the historic house museum has you feeling some sort of déjà vu, it’s likely you saw its on-screen debut in Robert Redford and Mia Farrow’s The Great Gatsby .

RELATED : 7 U.S. Cities That Are Hipper Than You Think

Mystic, Connecticut

This destination may no longer be under wraps, but the maritime village of Mystic is still a top-notch option for those looking to relax in the Northeast. Nearly equidistance between NYC and Boston, the quaint community is brimming with B&Bs, seaside restaurants, and a world-class aquarium. Drop your bags at Spicer Mansion , a romantic, clapboard inn with only eight lavish guest rooms (think: high ceilings, four-poster beds, and antique-inspired furnishings). From there, it’s time to explore the historic downtown for small mom-and-pop shops and a slice of surprisingly good pizza from the one and only Mystic Pizza (be prepared for lots of Julia Roberts kitsch).

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Mystic, CT hotels

Castine, Maine

In midcoast Maine, on a peninsula in Penobscot Bay, you’ll find one of the state’s oldest communities: Castine. Rich in seafaring tradition, the harbor town is home to the Maine Maritime Academy, and, perhaps, it’s most easily recognizable feature, the stone Dice Head Light. For classic Maine accommodations, the seaside Pentagoet Inn has you covered. The three-story, turreted Queen Anne Victorian is all about old-fashioned details: vintage lithographs, period antiques, clawfoot tubs, and intricately carved headboards—and its location is ideal, putting you within reach of countless art galleries, flea markets, seasonal fairs, and more. Just a minute down the block, MarKel’s Bakehouse is a must when it comes time to snack. Cinnamon buns, sweet breads, scones, and to-go sandwiches all vie for attention, but once you’ve picked something sweet, retreat back to the inn to relax on the wraparound porch where wicker rockers afford guests stunning views of the bay.

What to Wear in the Northeast

Women’s outfit to wear in the hamptons, shop the look.

Longwear Foundation

Canvas Wedge Espadrilles

Men’s picnic date outfit.

Denim Shorts

Polarized Aviators

Espadrilles

Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket

Women’s classic shorts outfit to wear to florida.

Air Ruched Blouse

Belted City Shorts

Iridescent Headband

3 Chain Earrings

Cozy Adventure in the US Outfit for Men

Fleece Pullover

Slim Fit Shorts

Baseball Cap

Skateboarding Shoes

Women’s swimsuit for international beaches in the fall.

One-piece Swimsuit

Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Lotion

Baltic Bracelet

Heart Sarong

Men’s stylish swimming outfit to wear in florida.

Swim Trunks

Striped Shirt

Leather Fanny Pack

Women’s Chill Romper Outfit for a Getaway from DC

Cutout Hoops

Long Sleeve Romper

Bandana Headband

Chuck Taylor®

Men’s day outfit for the east coast.

Elastic Shorts

Swingarm Sunglasses

Q Explorist Smartwatch

• 18 Stylish Women’s Sneakers for Travel
• 8 Secluded Beaches You Can Escape To This Summer
• The Best Weekender Bags Out There Now

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Jetsetter may earn an affiliate commission.

Become a Jetsetter.

Use our insider connections to know where to go and what to do.

Thanks for Signing Up!

Related Tags

Explore more.

The Ocean House

These Are The Most Romantic Hotels in the U.S., Hands Down

Where to Spend July 4th This Year

Grace Vanderbilt

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Home / The Great Northern

The Great Northern Road Trip: US Highway 2

Though many come close, no other cross-country route takes in the variety and extremity of landscape that US Highway 2 does. Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US-2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Starting in the west near the beautiful Pacific port city of Seattle, US-2 runs steeply up and over the volcanic Cascade Range, climbing from sea level to alpine splendor in around an hour. From the crest, the road drops down onto the otherworldly Columbia Plateau, a naturally arid region reclaimed from sagebrush into fertile farmland by New Deal public works projects like the great Grand Coulee Dam, one of the largest pieces of civil engineering on the planet. From Washington, US-2 bends north, clipping across the top of the Idaho Panhandle before climbing into western Montana, a land of forests, rivers, and wildlife that culminates in the bold granite spectacle of Glacier National Park.

On the eastern flank of the Rockies, the route drops suddenly to the windswept prairies of the northern Great Plains. Though empty to look at—especially when you’re midway along the 1,000-mile beeline across Montana and North Dakota, wondering how long it will be until you see the next tree or peak—this is a land rich in history, where the buffalo once roamed freely, where Plains peoples like the Shoshone, Blackfeet, Sioux, and Cheyenne reigned supreme, and where the Lewis and Clark expedition followed the Missouri River upstream in search of a way west to the Pacific.

Midway across the continent, the Great Plains give way to the Great Northwoods country of Minnesota —birthplace of both Paul Bunyan and Judy Garland—and then to the rugged lumber and mining country of Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Continuing due east, the route crosses the border into Ontario, Canada, running through the francophone environs of Montreal before returning to the United States near lovely Lake Champlain in upstate New York.

From there, US-2 passes through the hardwood forests of Vermont’s Green Mountains and the rugged granite peaks of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, two very different ranges, though only 50 mi (81 km) apart. The route winds down to the coast of Maine, reaching the Atlantic Ocean at Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

Landscapes, rather than cities and towns, play the starring roles on this route. After a few days spent following US-2 through small towns and wide-open spaces, you’ll probably consider Duluth bustling and fast-paced; driving even a short stretch of the Great Northern highway is guaranteed to bring new meaning to the expression “getting away from it all.”

Sights along a US Highway 2 Road Trip

For more insight into each stop along the Great Northern road trip, our content is arranged by state. Here are some major sights along US Highway 2 where travelers aiming to follow only a section of the full cross-country route may wish to use to plan their drive:

• Seattle, Washington – An engaging and energetic combination of scenic beauty, blue-collar grit, and high-tech panache
• Glacier National Park, Montana – Offering incredible scenic beauty and innumerable options for outdoor recreation
• Devils Lake, North Dakota – Home to historic Fort Totten, one of the country’s best-preserved 19th-century military forts
• Duluth, Minnesota – One of the most beautiful and underappreciated travel destinations in the Midwest
• Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin – Take a detour on our favorite summer drive and follow Highway 13 along the picturesque shore of Lake Superior
• Mackinac Island, Michigan – No cars allowed! Park your ride and ferry over to one of the top draws in the Midwest
• Ottawa, Ontario – Canada’s national capital is one of the most peaceable and pleasant of the world’s capitals
• Montreal, Quebec – Charming and cosmopolitan, Montreal is easily the most European city in North America
• Burlington, Vermont – Best known these days as the home of Senator Bernie Sanders and countercultural icons Ben & Jerry’s
• Jefferson, New Hampshire – Featuring one of the state’s biggest tourist draws: Santa’s Village
• Acadia National Park – Explore the natural glory of Mount Desert Island and be sure to get out of the car and head inland on foot on the park’s many hiking trails

Related Travel Guides

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Great Northern Route Travel Maps

Pin it for Later

Kate Abroad

The Ultimate 10 Day Northeast USA Itinerary (+ 1 and 2 week options)

Thinking of visiting the Northeastern Region of the USA? Look no further than this 10 day Northeastern USA travel itinerary.

The Northeast region of the United States is a beautiful and historically rich area that offers a ton of unique travel experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring bustling cities, enjoying the great outdoors, or soaking up some American history, there’s something for everyone in the Northeast.

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning the perfect itinerary can be overwhelming. But don’t stress, in this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of planning your Northeast USA travel itinerary. We’ll cover all the must-see destinations, the best times to visit, and plenty of tips to help you make the most of your trip.

From the stunning fall foliage in New England to the towering skyscrapers of New York City, the Northeast has it all. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoors enthusiast, the Northeast is sure to exceed your expectations. So block out your calendar and get ready to explore the very best that the Northeastern USA has to offer!

First a note: these itineraries all start in New York because for international travellers that’s typically the cheapest place to fly in and out of with the most airports and flight options. However, if you’re already in the USA or not concerned about flight costs, it would make sense to start at Boston (the northernmost point on the itinerary) and work your way south or vice versa.

How to get around the Northeastern USA

This itinerary is designed so that you can do it either as a 10 day Northeast USA road trip or travel by bus or train if you prefer not to drive. I’ve personally done it both ways and can tell you the trains are the easiest and most affordable way to get around in the Northeast.

All of the destinations on these itineraries (including the 1 and 2 week options) are along Amtrak’s Northeast Regional train route so you don’t even need to worry about train connections. Most trains stations in the Northeast are right in the center of each city, so you can walk straight off the train and start exploring.

The 10 Day Northeast USA road/train trip itinerary

Days 1-3: new york.

There’s no better place to start a USA road trip than the Big Apple, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of…. While you can (and I have) easily spend a week or more in NYC, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the highlights and get a taste.

It can be overwhelming to know where to start so to make it easy I recommend dedicating one day to each of Midtown and Downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Day 1 – Midtown Manhattan: Start your day in Times Square, the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan. There’s no better place to take in the bright lights and energy of the city. Here, you can shop at the many stores and boutiques (don’t miss the 3 storey M&Ms store) and grab breakfast or coffee at one of the many cafes.

From there, head to the  Empire State Building , where you can take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Next, visit the iconic Grand Central Terminal, one of the busiest train stations in the world and a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture.

End your day with a visit to Central Park, the iconic park that spans 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan. Here, you can have a picnic, go for a jog, rent a boat, or simply relax and people watch. It’s not advised to do a carriage ride as some horses may be mistreated.

Day 2 – Downtown Manhattan: Start your day in Battery Park, where you can catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You have the option of either the free Staten Island Ferry that goes past Liberty Island or the  paid Statue Cruises that lets you get off on Liberty Island, I’ve done both and the paid version is worth the money.

Afterward, take a stroll through the historic Financial District, where you can see the New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull statue, and the extremely moving 9/11 Memorial.

If you’re keen for more views you can head up the One World Trade Center Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

End your day with a stroll through the trendy neighborhoods of SoHo and Greenwich Village, where you can shop, dine, and people-watch to your heart’s content.

Day 3 – Brooklyn and Uptown: On the last day in NYC, make your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, walk around the waterfront with its panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, get your photos in DUMBO and eat your way through Time Out Market.

If you have extra time, explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden or visit the Brooklyn Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Then spend the afternoon taking in thousands of years of art at The Met and seeing how the other half live on the Upper East Side.

From there, take a subway ride up to Harlem, where you can explore the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage, visit the famous Apollo Theater, and grab dinner at one of the many soul food restaurants.

To help save money on attractions, try a  Go City pass . They have 2 and 3 day all-inclusive passes that would be perfect for this itinerary –  click here to see how you can save .

Finally, don’t forget to make time for plenty of pizza slices, bagels, pretzels and hot dogs!

• Luxury:  Kixby
• Mid-range:  Hotel Indigo Downtown
• Budget:  HI USA Hostel

Click here to compare NYC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 4-5: Boston

Drive: 220 miles – approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Moynihan Train Hall – approx. 4 hours

After the craziness of New York, head up north to the relative calm of Boston, Massachusetts. Boston is a city steeped in history and culture but despite its historic nature the crazy number of universities in Boston means the city has a very young, fun vibe. With world-class museums, delicious food, and beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Start your trip with a walk along the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you through some of Boston’s most important historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution Museum. Along the way, you’ll learn about the events leading up to the American Revolution and the role Boston played in shaping the country’s history.

There are plenty of  walking tours available  but I’d recommend just downloading an audio guide for the Freedom Trail and going at your own pace. And don’t miss the Boston Public Library, it might not be on the Freedom Trail but it was my favourite spot.

Next, head over to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can explore over 450,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collections range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, and there’s something for every taste and interest.

If you’re a sports fan, make sure to catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. And if baseball isn’t your thing, try an ice hockey game, I can promise it will make for a memorable experience.

For foodies, Boston is a paradise with both fresh New England seafood and quality Italian cuisine on offer. Make sure to try the city’s signature clam chowder and lobster rolls as well as Boston cream pie (go to Omni Parker House for the original version), and cannoli from Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry in the North End.

Finally, take a stroll through the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country. With over 50 acres of green space, the park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

On your second day in Boston, head out to Cambridge to see the Harvard campus (students run  walking tours ) and try some of the fun student bars.

If you have extra time, you can take the train out to Salem to explore the witchy museums and filming locations. It’s only a short ride from North Station or you can take a  day tour from Boston . 

• Luxury:  The Liberty Hotel
• Mid-range:  Revolution Hotel
• Budget:  Found Boston Common

Click here to compare Boston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 6: Providence/Newport

Drive: 50 miles – approx. 1 hour

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Back Bay or South Boston and local bus to Newport – approx. 2 hours total

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, might not be on every Northeast itinerary but it’s very much worth a visit.  

Providence itself is quite a small town with a very compact city centre. There are a couple of decent things to do in Providence itself, including visiting the Rhode Island State Capitol – unlike the one in DC, here you’re allowed to just wander around at will and see all the rooms – and the Brown University campus.

However, the number one reason for coming to Providence is because it’s the gateway to Newport, which you’ll want to dedicate most of the day to seeing. 

Newport is a beautiful seaside town full of cute boutiques and restaurants, but its biggest draw is the Gilded Age mansions.  These homes are straight out of The Great Gatsby, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of America’s wealthiest families during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

These grand estates are designed to feel very like European palaces with grand ballrooms, ornate gardens, and stunning ocean views. You can tour these mansions and learn about the families who lived there, including the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Morgans. I recommend picking 2-3 and using the audio tours which are included with your tickets and are super informative.

While you’re in Newport check out the Cliff Walk, a stunning (but windy) hike along the ocean. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or some of the famous New England clam chowder.

• Luxury:  The Beatrice
• Mid-range:  Graduate Providence
• Budget:  Courtyard by Marriott Providence Downtown

Click here to compare Providence accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 7-8: Philadelphia 

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Providence – approx. 5.5 hours

When in Philadelphia, the must-visit attraction is Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. To visit, you’ll need to book tickets through the National Parks website several weeks (ideally months) in advance of your trip as numbers are strictly limited and security is tight.

Even if you miss out on tickets to Independence Hall you can still line up to go see the Liberty Bell across the street and wander through the remains of George Washington’s house.

Next head across town to another of Philadelphia awesome free attractions, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This beautiful neoclassical building boasts works from van Gogh and Monet, among many many others.

Finish the day with a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary, one of the most famous and haunted prisons in the world. The prison’s notable inmates, include Al Capone and the bank robber “Slick Willie”. If you’re brave enough, sign up for the night tour to discover the spookiest stories from the prison’s history.

Start your second day in Philadelphia with a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution , where you can learn about the events leading up to the American Revolution and the impact it had on the country and the world. The museum features interactive exhibits, including a replica of a colonial-era privateer ship and Goerge Washington’s tent. We enjoyed the short talks from the educators explaining the artefacts in each room.

If you’re a really dedicated fan of America history you can also head over to the Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag was allegedly sewn and take a guided tour of the house to learn about the life of Betsy Ross and the history of the flag.

For lunch head to the Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country. This is a food’es paradise and the place to go to try local dishes including Philly cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels, and Amish donuts.

If you haven’t succumbed to a food coma then spend the rest of the day strolling through the historic district and waterfront, where you can see many other historic sites, including Franklin Court, site of Benjamin Franklin’s home.

• Luxury:  The Franklin on Rittenhouse
• Mid-range:  The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
• Budget:  Apple Hostels of Philadelphia

Click here to compare Philly accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 9-10: Washington DC

Drive: 150 miles – approx. 2.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Philadelphia 30 th  Street – approx. 2 hours

There’s no better place to wrap up your vacation in the Northeast United States than in the nation’s capital: Washington, D.C.

One of the best things about visiting D.C. is how much you can do for free. The city is home to countless museums, galleries, monuments, and historic buildings that are open to the public.

However, one important piece of advice: it’s essential to plan ahead and book your visits. Many places will book out months in advance, and even those that allow some walk-ins will often require you to spend a long time queuing outside which is no fun in the heat/wind/rain.

If you’re hoping to tour the White House, don’t expect it to be easy. The booking process requires US residents to apply through their local congressman process. The White House website suggests that foreigners can apply through their embassy, but we found that our embassies weren’t even taking bookings.

The Capitol, on the other hand, is much easier to get into, you do need to book but they can get large numbers of visitors through in a day so it’s not hard to get tickets. The Capitol is a must-do. You can’t see in the actual Senate or House chambers but the beautiful rotunda and National Statuary Hall are well worth it in themselves, we loved seeing the statues each state had chosen to donate.

Continuing on the must-see attractions in D.C., walking along the National Mall is a must. This beautiful parkland features the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and a variety of other monuments and memorials.

If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the National Gallery. This beautiful museum houses tons of amazing artworks including one by Leonardo Da Vinci. Whatever your interests, D.C. is sure to delight and inspire you with its wealth of cultural and historic offerings.

• Luxury:  Eaton DC
• Mid-range:  Lyle DC
• Budget:  Hotel Harrington

Click here to compare DC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Alternative: 1 week Northeast USA itinerary 

This shortened itinerary is very action-packed, suited to fast-paced travellers and those who want to see as much as possible in one trip. 

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC

Alternative: 2 week Northeast USA itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in, while also allowing some extra time in the top destinations for those who prefer to take things at a slower pace. 

• Providence/Newport

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Northeastern USA

True to the name, the Northeast covers the area from the Canadian border in the North down to (depending on who you ask) Washington DC on the Virginia border and inland as far as the Ohio border including 11 states.

To avoid the summer crowds and the freezing Northeastern winters, the best time to visit is in late spring (May-June) and early fall (October-November), these are also good times to catch the cherry blossoms or the fall foliage respectively.

For a first-time visitor, 10 days is enough time to see the highlights of the American Northeast but if you can stay a full 2 weeks you’ll get to see even more.

In Short: 10 Days in the Northeastern USA

It’s hard to narrow down the best parts of the Northeast to a short itinerary as there’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see this part of the USA. Hopefully, these Northeast USA itineraries give you some inspiration to get started!

For more USA travel inspiration, check out these articles:

• East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary
• Best Midwest Holiday Destinations

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

Similar Posts

The Ultimate One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary [2024 Guide]

Spending a whole week in a city is a great way to really get to know it and, in a city as big as Los Angeles, you need at least…

Top 15 Best Midwest Vacations to Book in 2024

Are you looking for some of the best Midwest vacations to start planning a trip this year? Luckily, there are so many great places to travel in this region of…

10 Budget-Friendly Holiday Destinations for Gen Z in 2024

Hey, Gen Z adventurers! Looking for your next vacation spot? We’ve got you covered with 10 affordable holiday destinations perfect for Gen Zers. Forget the clichés; travel is about diving…

5 Days in San Francisco Itinerary for 2024

Wondering what to do with 5 days in San Francisco? This San Francisco 5 day itinerary has you covered and some. Spending nearly a week in an area is a…

Ultimate 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary for 2024

Are you wondering what to do with just 4 days in San Diego? This itinerary will hit all the highlights and ensure that you see the very best that San…

12 Tips You Need For Visiting Disney World On Your Own in 2024

Ever thought about hitting up Disney World on your own? Are you nervous that Disney World is just for families? Don’t worry, this is the post for you. While I absolutely…

North America

The heart of North America beats through towering forests, undulating fields, high-plain deserts, pulsating metropolises and offbeat oases.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Southern USA

The story of the Smoky Mountains began in primordial times when clashing supersized continents created a chain of mountains that are today among the…

Glacier National Park

The rival of any of the United States' most spectacular national parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park is…

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada

Yosemite means "killer" in the Indigenous Miwok language, and in today's parlance it's indeed an impressive, awesome site. Everywhere you look in Yosemite…

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Upper East Side

What started with a handful of paintings brought over from Europe or donated by a coterie of philanthropically minded robber barons in the 19th century…

Pike Place Market

Downtown, Pike Place & Waterfront

A cavalcade of noise, smells, personalities, banter and urban theater sprinkled liberally around a spatially challenged waterside strip, Pike Place Market…

Golden Gate Park

San Francisco

When Frederick Law Olmsted, architect of New York's Central Park, gazed in 1865 upon the plot of land San Francisco Mayor Frank McCoppin wanted to turn…

Central Park

Upper West Side & Central Park

One of the world’s most renowned green spaces, Central Park comprises 843 acres of rolling meadows, boulder-studded outcroppings, elm-lined walkways,…

Ellis Island

Financial District & Lower Manhattan

Located in New York Harbor, Ellis Island is the US's most famous and historically important gateway and is home to one of the country’s most moving…

Latest stories from North America

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Tips & Advice

Apr 16, 2024 • 6 min read

For many, packing is the most stressful part of trip prep. Here are our tips to make sure you bring what you need, nothing more.

Feb 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Dec 26, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 10, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 29, 2023 • 9 min read

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Aug 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Jun 12, 2023 • 7 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in North America

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of North America with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

North America and beyond

Welcome to Travel North, your ultimate guide to the beauty of Northern Norway and Svalbard

Travel north connects you to the heart of the north, where nature’s magic awaits., featured destinations, visit skibotn, visit olderdalen, visit nordreisa, visit kvænangen, visit skjervøy, thanks to our partners.

Latest Articles

Can You Visit The Arctic Circle In Norway?

What Language Is Spoken In North Norway?

Is Norway Good For Seeing Northern Lights?

Is The Train Ride From Oslo To Bergen Pretty?

How Close Is Tromsø To The Arctic Circle?

How Many Days In Tromsø Is Enough?

Is Tromsø Worth Going?

Which Side Of The Road Do You Drive In Norway?

We’re glad that you’re here

Welcome to Travel North, your ultimate guide to the untamed beauty of Northern Norway and Svalbard. From the mesmerizing Northern Lights to the endless landscapes of the Arctic Circle, we provide comprehensive travel information, insider tips, and exclusive deals to make your journey unforgettable.

Explore our curated selection of destinations, tours, and accommodations, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the land of the Midnight Sun. Whether you’re an avid explorer or a leisure traveler, [Your Domain Name] connects you to the heart of the North, where nature’s magic awaits.

Visit North Carolina - For Real - Summer

For Richer Experiences, Get Real Experiences

Tell us what type of traveler you are, and we’ll make suggestions.

Uncharted Enthusiast

Discover new favorite everythings in our central cities.

Discover Your Trip

Refined Relaxers

Find calming retreats both high and low across our mountain towns.

Enrich Your Trip

Outdoorsy Types

The scenery in North Carolina makes enjoying the outdoors only natural.

Get Out Here

Family of Fun

It’s all beach plans and suntans on your family trip to the coast.

Plan for Your Fam

Get Real Trip Tips

We’ll stay in touch with all kinds of ideas and itineraries.

Privacy Policy

Outdoor NC Trip Tips

Inside Scoop on the Outdoors

Check out these real tips from real travelers and our partners that help preserve North Carolina’s natural beauty.

Spring in North Carolina

Bona Fide and in Bloom

Catch the spring season all across North Carolina. From outdoor dining and views for days to unforgettable flower gardens, there’s something authentic for all your senses.

Show Us How You #VisitNC

Share your vacation shots using our hashtag on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook for your chance to be featured.

This Fuji X-T3 camera in RAW format is powerful 😍 it truly is amazing how many details it captures. Do you shoot in RAW or JPG?

Explore the Topsail Area

#VisitNC @VisitNC

Even in the cold windy months, it’s still beautiful on the Crystal Coast. #emeraldisle #emeraldislenc #drone #djimavic #djicreator #visitnc #northcarolina

Explore the Crystal Coast

Nice sunset tonight O’er the Tar River! #greenvillenc #gvlbikeco #getoutside #specializedsworks #cyclinglife #northcarolina #sunsetlovers

Explore the Inner Coastal Plain

Sunrise in Buxton NC on a clear morning. #visitnc #coast #outerbanks #obx #ncbeaches #northcarolinacoast #northcarolina #dji #aerialphotography #sunrise #hatteraslife #hatterasisland

Explore the Outer Banks & Currituck

This little red bridge😍🌳 #dukegardens #dukeuniversity

Explore Raleigh, Durham & the Triangle

Happy New Year!!!! . Here’s hoping that everyone has a great night and a great 2023! . My plan of getting a skyline picture tonight was kind of fogged out, but I hope this sunrise from a few months ago still works! . . . #clt #charlotte #charlottenc #cltnc #cltskyline #discoverclt #charlottesgotalot #cltguide #skyline #sunset #citylife #charlottephotographer #sonyalpha #cltartist #southendclt #uptowncharlotte #uptownclt #mavic3 #dji #aerialimages #mavic #drone #newyear

Explore the Charlotte Region

Took this on the weekend & it’s one of my favorite photos ever. Just gonna let it speak for itself 😍

Explore North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains

what a weekend so far 🤯

Explore Pinehurst & the Sandhills

"There are darknesses in life and there are lights, and you are one of the lights, the light of all lights" - Bram Stoker Capturing this long exposure light trail with the carolinatheatregso turned out the way I visioned it. #througheddieslens #greensboro #visitgso #northcarolina #visitnc #streetshared #aov #weekly_feature #createexploretakeover #shotzdelight #mkexplore #gearednomad #rsa_streetview #imaginatones #hsdailyfeature #longexposure #longexposure_shots #nightphotography #ic_longexpo #global_hotshotz #longexpohunter #magicpict #night_shooterz #dream_image #longexposurephotography #fujifeed #myfujifilm #fujixclub #fujiframez #fujifilmxseries

Explore Greensboro & Winston-Salem

Sometimes waking up at 4am to sit on a mountain is worth it! - - - #photography #photo #photooftheday #nikon #nikonphotography #nikonusa #nikonphotographer #nikonz6ii #sigma #sigmaphotography #sigmausa #nikkor #nikkor50mm #nikkorlens #nature #naturephotography #craggypinnacle #craggygardens #northcarolina #northcarolinaphotographer #sunrise #sunriseoftheday

Explore Asheville & the Foothills

Big things coming soon with a pretty awesome group of people here in Wilmington. 💞🧘🏻‍♀️ 📍 battleshipnc yogavillagers forever_conswalia jesbic photography, yoga, yoga instructors, beauty, zen #photographer #photooftheday #photography #beauty #yoga #battleshipnc

Explore the Wilmington Area

Soo excited for the Spring blooms to arrive this year! Lots of new and amazing places to visit and always so little time. It’s been a long Winter season this year and I do love it but I’m enjoying this Spring like weather and I never want to go back. Ready…for…some… warm…weather. Where are your travels taking you this Spring? #exploreboone #booneview #828isgreat #highcountry #blueridgemoments #visitnc #linvillegorge #springblooms #naturephotography #nature_brilliance #sunsetlovers #discovercarolinas #gameoftones #splendid_earth #earthpix

Explore the High Country

It takes all of us to protect our outdoors. Learn more about how to travel sustainably.

Travel Guide

Request your free official travel guide, highway map and more.

Order Yours

Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

Getty Images

Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

Join the Conversation

Tags: Russia , Ukraine , Travel , Coronavirus , Travel Tips , Israel , Gaza , violence , Civil War , crime , kidnapping

Recent Articles

Best countries.

Education News

Best Countries Rankings

• # 1 Switzerland
• # 5 Australia
• # 5 United States

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

Switzerland is world's best country.

Julia Haines Sept. 6, 2023

Photos: Best Countries Around the World

Sept. 6, 2023

The 25 Best Countries in the World

Elliott Davis Jr. Sept. 6, 2023

US, South Korea Outline Visions for Cost-Sharing on Troops, US Negotiator Says

Reuters April 26, 2024

China to Host Hamas, Fatah for Palestinian Unity Talks

The best winery in North Carolina, according to reviews—plus, see the rest of the top 7

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Highest-rated wineries in North Carolina, according to Yelp

Napa Valley isn't the only travel destination in the United States for a good glass of wine. While California's wine country is known for being a top winery destination (and also home to the award-winning bottle of chardonnay that won top honors at the Judgment of Paris competition in 1976), wine connoisseurs no longer have to travel all the way to California for a good winery experience. In fact, at this point, noteworthy wineries are available to visit in every state, if you know where to look.

As of February 2023, there are 11,691 wineries in the United States , an increase of more than 10% since 2020. A 2022 report from WineAmerica stated the wine industry generates $276 billion in total economic activity and employs over a million people.

With such a booming industry and a plethora of wineries to choose from, how does a vino-lover know if a winery is worth it? First, the location is a big reason why people choose to visit a winery; if they are tucked away next to a sprawling field of grapes for guests to explore, then the wine is likely locally sourced. The tasting experience is also key. Wineries will offer a selection of their wines by the glass, or even tastings where the customer can order smaller pours of a variety of their wines. Some wineries even offer cellar tours with glimpses into their winemaking process. Of course, the ambiance is a big draw. If it's the kind of place that makes guests want to post photos on Instagram to make their friends jealous, then that winery is probably doing something right.

So how do you know which winery to visit that includes some—if not all—of what makes a winery the best of the best? Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated wineries in North Carolina, according to Yelp , so you know exactly where to venture when wine o'clock hits—no trip to Napa necessary. Only businesses that had at least three reviews and are categorized as wineries on Yelp were included. Therefore, it's possible some businesses are miscategorized. Businesses that did not have a photo on Yelp were also not included.

#7. Cougar Run Winery

- Rating: 3.5/5 (22 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 363 Church St N Concord, NC 28025 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#6. Davidson Wine Co

- Rating: 4.0/5 (68 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 121 Depot St Davidson, NC 28036 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#5. Foxcroft Wine - Southpark

- Rating: 4.0/5 (104 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 7824 Fairview Rd Charlotte, NC 28226 - Categories: American (New), Wineries, Wine Bars - Read more on Yelp

#4. Rocky River Vineyards

- Rating: 4.5/5 (60 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 11685 Reed Mine Rd Midland, NC 28107 - Categories: Wineries, Venues & Event Spaces - Read more on Yelp

#3. Cats Paw Winery

- Rating: 4.5/5 (33 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 1567 Fayrene Rd Rock Hill, SC 29732 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#2. Seven Jars

- Rating: 4.5/5 (27 reviews) - Address: 6148-A Brookshire Blvd Charlotte, NC 28216 - Categories: Wineries, Beer, Wine & Spirits, Distilleries - Read more on Yelp

#1. Kefi Vineyards and Winery

- Rating: 5.0/5 (13 reviews) - Address: 3109 Plyler Mill Rd Monroe, NC 28112 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Kiersten Hickman, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 35 states.

More for You

‘A big mistake’: Ex-Trump White House lawyer reacts to Trump’s mention of Charlottesville

28 celebrities you probably did not know are nonbinary

Spacecraft spots "spiders" scattered across surface of Mars

Scientists have discovered the maximum age a human can live to

Kevin Porter Jr. Is Currently Playing In Greece For $10K Just One Year After Losing Majority Of $82.5 Million Contract

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

See the UK destroyer crew that scored the Royal Navy's first missile kill since the Gulf War

What 50 music icons looked like at the very start of their careers

Republicans Given Ultimatum About Trump

Should you leave your laptop plugged in all the time?

Scientists finally confirm what lies inside the Moon

Netflix’s new movie trailer slammed as ‘AI propaganda’

A $100,000 salary no longer buys you a middle-class lifestyle. Here’s why it costs so much more now.

Housing Price Drop Likely In these 20 Cities

Jeff Bezos says work-life balance is a 'debilitating phrase,' and that work and life are actually a circle

The Lord Of The Rings: The War Of The Rohirrim – Release Date, Cast, Plot, And More Info

'10-foot-tall people' discovered by archaeologists in Nevada cave

'We were sold this unachievable dream': Georgia woman explains the 'broken' system that has young Americans fearing for their futures. Is this narrative right?

10 of the best things coming to Netflix next month

Winners & losers from opening night of the NFL Draft

• Netherlands
• Travel Tips

10 Days in Italy – North to South Italy Itinerary

10 days in Italy – the country of pizza, pasta and Aperol Spritz. During 10 days in Italy you can explore the country’s dreamiest places if you plan your trip well.

This itinerary for 10 days in Italy from North to South Italy follows a harsh schedule and might not be the right pace of travel for everyone. When I travel with my friends, we save time by taking night trains, we get up with the sun and we don’t sleep much. For us, to travel is to explore, to experience and to venture – not to relax. If that’s not your way of travel, you might want to spend 1-2 days more in some destinations.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of my links I will receive a small commission which helps me to maintain my site. This has no  extra cost for you and you will make my day!

Table of Contents

Getting around in Italy

Getting around in Italy is fairly easy. No matter if you choose public transport or to drive yourself, with both options you can easily get to most sites.

Public Transport

Italy has a well-developed and affordable train network operating between cities. The two train companies in Italy are Trenitalia and ItaliaRail . You can check the route network and their time schedules on their website.

BUDGET TIP:

Often, the fares differ depending on the time and duration of your connection. For example, going from Venice to Rome usually takes about 4 hours. We took a night train that took 8 hours and we paid almost half of the price than the quicker connection would have cost. By taking a night train you also save one night of accommodation.

Also check the prices on Trainline . Trainline is a search engine for train and bus connections in Europe. If you book your ticket well in advance, you might get it for a lower price on Trainline. Knowing the itinerary of your 10 days in Italy in advance can therefore help you save some money.

The perk of having a car is that you’re more flexible in terms of time and place. With a car you can visit places off the beaten path or stay in an accommodation outside the main tourist area to get more value for your money.

To get a good deal for your rental car I recommend comparing prices of different providers. Discover Cars is a great platform to get an overview of the providers and their rental prices.

Aspects to consider

• Parking can be hard to find and expensive – especially on the Amalfi coast. In Positano you need to pay 7€ per hour if you can’t find a free parking spot on the street.
• Parking tickets: Make sure to only park in the marked places. Policemen are quick to give you a fine if you exceed the time limit or if you park in a wrong place. White marks mean that you can park for free for an unlimited time. Blue marks mean that it’s a pay zone.
• You have to pay a fee for using the highways . Short sections usually cost 2,10€ but from Bari to Naples we paid a total of 16,50€ for a 2 hour drive.
• Fuel is quite expensive compared to other countries in Southern Europe.

Public Transport or Rental Car?

There’s no clear answer to this question as it depends on your priorities and preferences. If you travel solo or if you’re on a really tight budget, it’s probably better to use public transport.

However, if you’re at least 2 persons and you prioritize flexibility and seeing more than just the main sights of an area, it’s more convenient to have a car.

For 10 days in Italy, a rental car can be quite expensive. We did a mix of both and took the train from Venice to Rome and from Rome to Naples . In Naples we rented a car at the airport. From there we drove down the Amalfi Coast, then to Bari and back to Naples.

I think the best way to do it is as we did it, to take the train between major cities and then rent a car to get around within an area.

Day 1: Venice

Venice is one of the most famous and most visited towns in Italy. It was also the first stop of our 10 days in Italy.

First off, I want to mention that Venice struggles a lot with the problem of overtourism and the disrespectful behaviour of tourists.

If you visit Venice, please remember that this is the HOME of locals and not solemnly a tourist attraction. The City of Venice has launched an awareness campaign #EnjoyRespectVenezia that should guide visitors to behave respectfully and responsibly towards the city and its inhabitants.

A further great way to support the local community in Venice is to shop and consume products from local providers instead of illegal street vendors. Please check out Venezia Autentica before your trip to get an authentic Venetian experience while positively impacting the life of the locals.

Have an early morning

The most famous sights of Venice are usually quite crowded during the day. If you want to enjoy them by yourself, there’s no way around than to have an early morning.

Especially the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco are much more impressive without crowds. Be there at around 7-8 am to admire the architecture without any other people.

Breakfast at Niki Bar

Niki Bar is a great place to start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast. The woman who owns it is such a sweetheart. She prepares all meals with love and the fresh fruit juices are amazing. Plus, you get a huge portion for an affordable price.

Aperitivo at Al Remer

Al Remer offers Aperitivo every evening where you simply pay for your drink and you get a buffet with snacks with it. The bar is hidden behind the small alleys of Venice and people who don’t know about it probably wouldn’t find it. It’s located right next to the canal in a calm place.

Eat panini at De Lele

De Lele sells the best paninis for only 1€. Get some paninis and sit by the canal to enjoy them with a lovely view.

Share an Antipasti Platter at Paradiso Perduto

Paradiso Perduto is a great place for dinner. Their antipasti platters are amazing and big enough to share them.

Day 2: Venice and Burano

Burano is a neighbouring island of Venice that you can easily reach via vaporetto (ferry). It takes less than an hour to get from Venice to Burano and a one way ticket costs 7,50€. The ferry number 12 runs from Venice to Burano and back.

Burano is famous for its colorful houses and the Burano lace that is produced on the island.

I recommend visiting Burano in the morning while the streets are still empty. The later it gets, the more people arrive. In the afternoon and in the evening the island can get quite busy.

Burano is full of colorful houses wherever you look. The island is much smaller than Venice and 2-4 hours are enough to explore everything. There’s not much to do besides strolling through the picturesque streets, visiting local stores of Burano lace and having lunch or a Spritz by the canal. Burano used to be a fisher island so you can get great fish and seafood there.

Day 3 and 4: Rome

We took the night train from Venice to Rome, where we had a short stop of only 1 day. However, I suggest a minimum 2 days in Rome. There’s so much to see and to do in Rome. If you’re an enthusiast of Rome’s history and its ancient buildings, I recommend staying even more than 2 days .

To make the most of your time in Rome, check out these experiences with local guides from Get your Guide :

As I had already been to Rome a few years ago, I didn’t mind the short stop of 1 day. Plus, I always prefer coastal towns and nature to cities.

Aperitivo at Meccanismo

If you want to have a proper local experience in Rome, go for an Aperitivo at Meccanismo . When you order a drink, you get a platter of snacks and antipasti with your order. It is an Italian tradition to have an Aperitivo with friends before dinner.

Visit the famous sites

The Colosseum is one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World and should be part of everyone’s visit to Rome. We went there right before sunset and could enjoy the beautiful lighting of the golden hour.

Here are some great guides to Rome:

• The best things to do for 2 days in Rome.
• Guide on the best photography spots in Rome .

Day 5: Naples and Pompei

From Rome to Naples it’s only 2 more hours by train. When we arrived at the train station and made our way to the Airbnb in Naples, we soon realised that Naples is not worth spending much time there. While the port area is pretty and there’s a lovely viewpoint on top of the city, there’s not much to see except for that.

If you only have 10 days in Italy, don’t waste your time in Naples and better look for an accommodation in Pompei , as the town is much prettier.

First off, it’s important to clarify the difference between the historic town Pompeii and the modern city Pompei (yes, it’s extremely confusing and it took me a while to figure this out).

The spelling marks the difference between the ancient town (Pompeii) and the modern town (Pompei) in the English language.

The historic town Pompeii was buried under volcanic ash when Volcano Vesuvius erupted in the year 79 AC. Those ruins are what attracts a great number of tourists to the area. Pompeii is only a part of the city Pompei.

Visit the ancient town Pompeii

Preserved by the ash of Volcano Vesuvius’ eruption, Pompeii is now one of Italy’s most famous tourist attractions and shows an insight of how Roman life used to be in the past.

You can book your skip-the-line ticket and a guided tour in a small group here . Or check out this tour to Pompeii including a wine tasting .

Pompeii has truly impressed me. It’s incredible how this whole town could be so well preserved for such a long time after it had been buried by lava. Besides the insights into the way the Romans lived, also the view of the surrounding mountains is impressive.

Climb Mount Vesuvius

Climbing Mount Vesuvius should be on everyone’s itinerary for Naples or Pompei.

Mount Vesuvius is the only volcano on European mainland that has erupted within the past 100 years. It is even regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes because a high number of people live in great proximity of the the volcano, putting them in danger in case of an eruption.

Check out this tour to Pompeii including a wine tasting.

Then you head back to the parking lot where the mini van waits for you to bring you back to the center of Pompei.

Personally, I wasn’t very impressed by the volcano as I’ve climbed other volcanos that were much more impressive. However, the view from the top is amazing and it should be part of a visit to Pompei or Naples anyways.

Pompeii Window B&B

In Pompei we stayed a night at Pompeii Window B&B . The B&B is in a good location near the center of Pompei and we had balcony views of Mount Vesuvius. Plus, the host even picked us up from the bus stop in his private car.

The sunset views from our balcony were amazing. I highly recommend staying there if you spend a night in Pompei.

Day 6: Capri and Sorrento

The Island of Capri can be reached via ferry either from Naples or from Sorrento. A return ticket for the ferry from Sorrento costs about 40€ and the ferry runs every hour.

If you’re on a budget, I recommend visiting Capri as a day trip because the accommodations there are much more expensive than on the mainland. And one day is enough to explore the beautiful places the island has to offer.

Head to Capri in the morning and spend the day there. The last ferry back to Sorrento leaves at 17:45 which gives you enough time to explore Sorrento on the same day and have dinner there.

Capri Island

Capri is a mountainous island which receives a great number of tourists in the summer months. Arriving to the Grand Marina by ferry, you can either climb the numerous stairs or you take a funicular to get to the center of the island.

Gardens of Augustus and Via Krupp

Gardens of Augustus are small botanical gardens on the island Capri. The gardens overlook the ocean and the impressive rocky coast of Capri.

Keep walking up to the highest part of the Gardens of Augustus to see Via Krupp . Via Krupp is a historic footpath that connects the Gardens of Augustus with the ocean.

You can only look at the path from above as it has been closed due to the danger of falling rocks.

Stroll through the center of Capri

Piazza Umberto is the main square of the island and the heart of Capri. It’s located on a hilltop with amazing views of the coastline. The bustling square provides a lively atmosphere where tourists mingle in overpriced cafés.

In the surrounding area you can find designer stores, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels. If you don’t have a fortune to spend, simply take a walk and enjoy the views.

Blue Grotto

Blue Grotto is the most visited attraction on Capri. A boat takes you to a cave where the water reflects the sun rays, making it shine in an intense blue.

I didn’t go there because I didn’t think it was worth it. Apparently, the Blue Grotto is truly impressive but also extremely crowded.

Back in Sorrento, the coastal town nestled among mountains waits to be explored. Sorrento offers beautiful views overlooking Naples, Volcano Vesuvius and the Island of Capri. The picturesque old town features a variety of traditional craft shops and small boutiques.

Try freshly squeezed lemon juice

I’ve never had freshly squeezed lemon juice as good as in Italy. Those lemons aren’t as sour as the common ones and they taste amazing. There’s nothing as refreshing as freshly squeezed lemon juice with ice on a hot summer day.

Eat ice cream at Raki

The ice cream at Raki in Sorrento was the best ice cream I had during my 10 days in Italy. Definitely try mango-orange, I absolutely loved this flavour. And their dark chocolate ice cream is to die for too.

Day 7: Amalfi Coast

Amalfi is a stretch of coastline that attracts thousands of tourists each year. I have to admit that I had initial doubts about the Amalfi Coast. It’s such a hyped destination with overpriced hotels, crowded streets and lots of traffic . These are characteristics that usually make me want to stay away from a place.

Nevertheless, I gave it a try and I was absolutely amazed by the coast. Driving along the Amalfi Coast is simply stunning. The views of imposing cliffs paired with the blue ocean and the houses built into the mountains are impressive.

Positano & Amalfi

Positano and Amalfi are the most instagrammed places of the Amalfi Coast and are considered as the ultimate must-see towns in the area. Parking spaces are rare, if you find a free one you’ll have to walk a long way to the center or you pay 7€ per hour for parking in the center.

If you have the chance, visit Positano and Amalfi by bus or early in the morning . The bus drops you off right by the center. Taking the bus saves you time, money and effort of finding a parking space.

For a different experience, you could also visit Positano & Amalfi by boat .

Positano is a lovely town with cute boutiques, traditional ceramic shops, narrow stairways and a small beach where you can cool down in the ocean. The view of the imposing mountainous coast is breathtaking.

After a couple of hours of strolling through the center and relaxing on the beach I had enough of Positano – there are too many people in a small place and it’s over-hyped in my opinion.

My personal conclusion is that Positano and Amalfi are worth visiting but I wouldn’t want to stay there for more than 1-2 hours.

Minori and Maiori

I was happy to leave the busy tourist hotspot Positano to head to the less famous coastal town Minori . In Minori and Maiori you can find less crowded streets and lovely restaurants that offer delicious meals at a more affordable price.

I highly recommend checking these villages out if you prefer less crowded places.

The restaurant we had dinner at seems to be quite new as it’s not even shown on Google Maps. It’s located right next to “Bistrot 52” in the centre of Minori. The owners are lovely people and the food is amazing.

Stay the night in Agerola

Agerola is located in the mountains of the Amalfi Coast. The village offers a stunning view of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.

Staying in Agerola gives you the best of both worlds : You’re not far away from the busy coast but you can experience the tranquility of a calm mountain village with sea view.

We decided to stay at the Agriturismo Orrido di Pino in Agerola and it was the best place we could have chosen. During those 10 days in Italy, this was my absolute favourite accommodation.

Orrido di Pino is a family-owned Agriturismo in Agerola and the owners are real sweethearts. They grow their own wine (which tastes amazing) and the rooms are spacious with a big terrace. Every evening they offer a three course menu including wine for 20€.

Besides the amazing food and the great hospitality there are also stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean from above.

Day 8: Agerola and Matera

The next day we had an early morning with Italian breakfast in our Agriturismo in Agerola before we headed out to hike the “Path Of The Gods” (Sentiero Degli Dei). This was our last stop on the Amalfi Coast.

Sentiero Degli Dei – Path of the Gods

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) is the most famous hike of the Amalfi Coast and it attracts a high number of hikers everyday. Starting in the village Bomerano , the trail leads from the mountains towards the coast to Positano .

Agerola is the perfect place to stay if you want hike the Sentiero Degli Dei because the starting point in Bomerano is only a 10 minute drive away.

Make sure to be in Bomerano early in the morning at around 8 am to get a parking space. From there, simply follow the signs towards the “Sentiero Degli Dei”.

If you would like to hike the Path of the Gods with a local guide, you can book your experience here .

The sky and the ocean seem to merge into each other at the horizon, so that you can’t be sure where the ocean ends and where the sky begins. During the hike you can enjoy the peacefulness of nature in the calm mountains above the Amalfi Coast.

Once you arrive to Positano or Praiano you can either take a taxi or a boat and a bus back to the starting point in Bomerano.

We only hiked a small part of the trail and turned back around to Bomerano after half an hour. The views were stunning even at the beginning of the hike and this way we saved some time and also money as we didn’t need transport back to the car.

After hiking the Sentiero Degli Dei, we left Agerola and headed towards Matera, which is about 3 hours by car from the Amalfi Coast.

Matera is an ancient city on a hill located in the South of Italy. In 2019 it was declared a European Capital of Culture by UNESCO . 

In the past, citizens used to live in cave-dwellings that were carved into the river canyon of Matera. The people living in those caves suffered from diseases and poverty until the government has relocated them into modern houses. Only then, the tourism potential of Matera was discovered and the caves were restored.

Now, Matera attracts lots of visitors and is home to many hotels and restaurants. Wander the cobblestone streets and stop for a coffee or an Aperol Spritz on the way.

You can book your guided walking tour through Matera here .

Day 9 and 10: Bari

From Matera, it’s only a 30 minute drive to get to Bari, which is located in Puglia, on the opposite coast of Amalfi. While Bari itself isn’t worth spending much time there, it’s a great starting point to explore the surrounding villages.

Stay the night in Bari and then head from Bari to Alberobello, Ostuni, Monopoli and Polignano A Mare . These 4 towns are not far from each other and if you have a car, you can easily visit all 4 towns in one day. In case you have more spare time, I recommend visiting Trani as well.

Alberobello

Alberobello is the place you should visit first thing in the morning. We got up at 7 am and drove straight from Bari to Alberobello. This town is a huge tourist magnet and it can get extremely crowded later in the day. The earlier in the morning you get there, the better.

Alberobello is one of the most picturesque towns in the South of Italy. My Italian friend told me that basically every Italian wants to visit it once in their lives.

The most striking feature of Alberobello is the unique architecture of the houses that you can see in the picture above. These houses are called “Trulli” . They were built in the past because it was fairly easy to rebuild them in case they got destroyed.

Now, the Trulli in Alberobello are solemnly a tourist attraction and they’re used as souvenir shops. My local friend told me that many people who live in that area still own a Trullo which they use for storage capacities.

Ostuni is another lovely town in Puglia, South Italy. It is also referred to as the “White Town” . There is not much to do in Ostuni, but the old town invites to stroll through its stairways and to have a coffee or a Spritz in one of the various bars. Keep your eyes open to discover cute alleys such as the one on the photo above.

Monopoli is a charming coastal town with numerous restaurants and bars. I recommend a short stop there to explore the old town and to have a drink or a snack in one of the bars.

We had these antipasti platters at Barumba Café . The salmon platter and the cheese platter were amazing.

As a dessert we treated ourselves to a delicious ice cream at Il Capriccio , which is right next to Barumba Café.

Polignano A Mare

Our last stop of the day was Polignano A Mare. This town was another highlight and is a must-see. Houses built right on the edge of the cliffs provide an impressive view and the buildings seemingly melt with the rocks.

Waves clashed against the cliffs while the sun went down and the streets of Polignano A Mare got busier. The last sun rays illuminated the cliffs and the buildings on top of them.

Polignano A Mare is a great place to end the day as you can watch a beautiful sunset before heading to the old town to have some drinks.

Polignano A Mare was the last stop of our 10 days in Italy. We spent a perfect last evening in this lovely coastal town.

The next day we drove back to Naples to return our car and to take our flight back home.

Budget tips

10 days in Italy can become quite expensive. Here are some tips to spend your vacation in a more economic way.

Don’t fall for tourist rip-offs

It may seem obvious, but don’t eat in restaurants near tourist hotspots such as the Piazza San Marco in Venice or the Trevi Fountain in Rome. Those restaurants usually charge extra for the view or for their location in the main tourist area. Step away from these places and look for a Trattoria or an Osteria in a small side street.

Buy food at the market

When you spend 10 days in Italy, having breakfast, lunch and dinner in a restaurant everyday can become a burden on the wallet. Skip the restaurant for some meals and buy some fresh fruits or traditional snacks at local markets or in the supermarket instead. Find a nice place to sit down and have a picnic.

Coperto – No tips

When you sit down in a restaurant in Italy you’re charged a “Coperto” as a service and cover fee. The charge usually ranges from 1 to 3 Euros and additional tipping is not common.

The same thing that applies for the coperto in restaurants also goes for cafés. If you order a coffee for take-away you sometimes pay only half the price of what you pay when you sit down.

The price list often shows prices for takeaway but when you sit down you’re charged more . To save money, Italians often have their coffee while standing at the bar.

Have an Aperitivo with snacks

Having an Aperitivo with friends is an Italian tradition. You meet in a bar for a drink (usually Aperol Spritz) and have some snacks with it. Some bars take the Aperitivo a step further by offering a platter or a whole antipasti buffet included in the drink . This is especially common in the area of Milan and Florence. But also bars further South offer Aperitivo. Here are some bars that offer Aperitivo with snacks :

Venice : Al Remer Rome : Meccanismo

Having an Aperitivo is a great way to save some money for food as the snacks that come with the drink can be quite filling.

Stay in Agriturismos

Agriturismos are farms on the Italian countryside that receive guests in their restaurant and for overnight stays. Those accommodations are often more economic than hotels and they offer beautiful views and spacious rooms.

Depending on where you stay, you often get home-made products and home-grown fruits and vegetables for breakfast. Meals are usually freshly prepared with local products.

My absolute favorite Agriturismo was Orrido di Pino in Agerola on the Amalfi Coast.

The only drawback is that you usually need a car to get to those Agriturismos as most of them are located outside the center in the countryside.

North Italy vs. South Italy

There’s a great difference between Northern Italy and Southern Italy when it comes to safety measures and restrictions. Northern Italy is the area where the situation really got out of hand while in Southern Italy, life wasn’t impacted much.

Therefore, safety measures such as wearing a mask and social distancing are put into practice more strictly in the North than in the South.

In the north of Italy, almost all restaurants and stores provide hand sanitizer at the entrance and shop owners ask you to sanitize your hands before entering. In the South, people seem to care less and some don’t mind if you enter a building without mask.

Here are some more suggestions for summer destinations in Europe :

• Top 4 Hidden Gems of Gran Canaria
• The 6 Most Underrated Places of Lanzarote
• Ericeira, Portugal – Europe’s surf capital

I truly hope that my itinerary for 10 days in Italy from North to South provides some useful tips and helps you plan a memorable trip to Italy.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me – I’d love to help!

Sharing is caring!

July 19, 2020

Europe , Italy

amalfi , Europe , itinerary , north italy , south italy , travel blog , travel guide

33 Comments

July 19, 2020 at 5:07 pm

This is a great Itinerary! I find it very useful because I am thinking about travelling to Italy in August. I’ve heard that Italy can be expensive so it’s amazing to know all these budget tips. Also, those food recommendations look so good 😍 I would love to try the lemon juice and gelato! Thank you for sharing.

July 19, 2020 at 5:18 pm

Thank you for your positive feedback Cristina! I really recommend visiting Italy this summer, you’re gonna have a great time there. And the food there really is a dream!

July 20, 2020 at 12:56 am

Thank you for great information! I cannot wait to visit Rome. Absolutely love all your pictures and the tips you have shared.

July 20, 2020 at 2:34 pm

You’re welcome! I’m glad that you find it useful!

July 20, 2020 at 1:04 pm

Wow what an amazing itinerary Maria! I’m heading to Venice on Sunday and seriously can’t wait. Seeing all your photos makes me even more excited 🙂

July 20, 2020 at 1:47 pm

Thank you Alina! Hope you’ll have a great time in Vencie!

July 20, 2020 at 6:58 pm

This post makes me miss Italy so much! I miss the spritz and the amalfii coast. It’s so beautiful there!

July 20, 2020 at 7:46 pm

I feel you girl! It’s really beautiful and I already miss the food and drinks too!

July 25, 2020 at 10:06 am

Great itinerary and lovely pictures! I’d love to go there right away if I could 🙂 I visited Italy once for a couple of days and only spent a few hours in Venice. Hoping to come back and take my husband there this time as I instantly fell in love with this city!

July 25, 2020 at 11:12 am

Thank you Juliet! Venice rally is lovely city!

July 25, 2020 at 11:05 am

I love your post! It’s funny because my family is from Rome so I’ve been on coubtless day trips to Venice but never to Burano. It looks so cut there so I’ll have to go on my next trip.

July 25, 2020 at 11:15 am

Thank you Linn! Wow it’s so cool that your family is from Rome! I really recommend visiting Burano, I loved it there.

July 25, 2020 at 11:22 am

So many amazing places in one itinerary! There are loads of places here that I’d love to visit, so it’s really good to know that visiting them all in one trip is achievable. Lots of useful tips too, thanks for sharing those.

July 25, 2020 at 4:20 pm

You’re welcome, I’m glad you found it helpful! And yes, those places really are amazing. Italy is so beautiful

July 25, 2020 at 11:37 am

I have so many places still to visit in Italy! This guide is really useful, esp the budget tips!

July 25, 2020 at 4:21 pm

Me too, Katy! With every trip I notice how much more there is still to see. I’m glad you find the tips useful!

July 25, 2020 at 11:59 am

I have been to Italy a few times but there are many cities on your list that I haven’t visited yet! Thank you fir all the tips, I cannot wait to travel there again!

July 25, 2020 at 4:22 pm

I feel the same about Italy. I’ve been there many times but there are still so many beautiful places I haven’t visited yet.

July 25, 2020 at 1:28 pm

I’ve been thinking about doing this exact trip pretty much after I visited Venice before lock down and fell in love, I def need to go back to Italy asap!

July 25, 2020 at 4:23 pm

I hope you get the chance to do that soon. You’ll love it for sure!

July 25, 2020 at 7:46 pm

Really amazing itinerary!! I am going back to Italy next week and finally, I am going to Venice. Can’t wait for it!!!

July 25, 2020 at 10:49 pm

Thank you Alessia! Wishing you an amazing time in Venice, I’m sure you’ll love it

July 25, 2020 at 9:53 pm

Loved this post! I can’t wait to go back to Italy!! Thanks for sharing your tips 🙂

Thank you Faria!

July 25, 2020 at 11:08 pm

Italy is one of my favorite destinations! I also appreciate that your post was able to be current in terms of covid and travel restrictions! I haven’t made it to Venice yet but it is on my list for next time!

July 26, 2020 at 12:17 pm

Italy is also one of my favourite European countries. Hope you get the chance to visit again soon!

July 27, 2020 at 3:58 am

Wow! This is an amazing Italy guide Maria! All of your photos are so beautiful and you definitely have me dreaming of being back in Italy. I’m still hoping I could still go this year. 🙂

August 1, 2020 at 2:06 pm

Thank you Taylor! Hope you get the chance to go!

December 10, 2020 at 3:55 am

I really loved visiting Pompei and Pompeii 😉 confusing for me at first too haha!

December 11, 2020 at 5:40 pm

I felt the same confusion in the beginning haha! And I also loved visiting Pompei and Pompeii!

September 20, 2023 at 10:24 pm

Thank you! We are going to gratefully follow your thoughtful path!

September 20, 2023 at 10:25 pm

What do you think about doing this in the first week of December?

October 17, 2023 at 8:16 pm

You could definitely do that the first week of December. You will have the benefit of seeing the famous places without crowds. Just be aware that the temperatures will be way cooler and you won’t see the sun or a clear sky as much as in summer. Also, some hotels and restaurants might be closed

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Hi!   I’m Maria, an outdoor-active traveler who seeks to go off the beaten track to discover hidden gems.   Most of the time you’ll find me exploring small beach towns or untouched places in the mountains to connect with nature. My goal is to inspire others to go out of their comfort zone and explore this beautiful planet.   During the creation of this blog, uncountable cups of coffee were consumed. If my blog is an inspiration for you in any way, I would appreciate your support by buying me a cup of coffee.   Happy traveling!

Buy Me a Coffee

Privacy Policy

© 2024 a world of destinations — Powered by WordPress

Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑

✉  [email protected]  -  ☎ (+354) 894 1470

ABOUT TRAVEL NORTH

Scandinavia Travel North is a travel agency in Húsavík. The beauty of Iceland fascinates everyone and it doesn’t need help. But with our love and passion and knowledge, we add even more value to your journey. 

VOLCANO SITUATION

Fagradalsfjall: there has been continuous earthquakes for weeks, and the magma is close to the surface, so we are expecting an eruption soon, but nothing has happened yet and the areas at risk have been secured.

TRAVEL WITH US

Húsavík didn’t win at the 93rd Oscars but it sure was celebrated during the show. Now it’s your turn to visit our beautiful hometown! We organise tours with main focus in Húsavík and surroundings.

OUR TOP PICKS

Northern Iceland is a vast region full of incredible wonders, but some gems are simply unmissable. Come discover with us!

Netflix The Story of Fire Saga

Discover The Story of Fire Saga! During this tour, we will explore the set of the Netflix movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. We will visit all the spots where Rachel McAdams, Will Ferrell and Pierce Brosnan performed their roles....

HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE?

Please, share with us feedbacks or any comments. We do care.

Iceland with your eyes

What our clients say about us.

"Ring Road trip organized with great care and professionalism, which fully complied our requests and needs. Invaluable insider tips on what to visit, things to do and places where to eat. Extreme availability and live support whenever needed, for the whole duration of the trip. Takk fyrir Francesco!"

10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary: 2 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Northern Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lombardy & Veneto in 10 Days

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

Day 1 – Milan

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Milan

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Milan

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

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

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

Day 3 – Lake Como

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Lake Como

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Lake Como

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Bergamo

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Bergamo

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

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

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

Day 6 – Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Verona

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Venice

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Venice

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Venice

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

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

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

Day 10 – Venice

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

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

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

Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna & Liguria in 10 Days

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Lake Como or Bergamo

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Modena

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Bologna

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Bologna

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

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

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

Day 6 – Bologna

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Cinque Terre

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

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

Day 9 – Genoa

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Genoa

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

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

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

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

Day 10 – Genoa

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

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

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

Have 14 Days in Northern Italy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Tuscany Itinerary

A Perfect Capri Day Trip from Sorrento, Naples and Positano

The Perfect Day Trip to Orvieto from Rome

About Maggie Turansky

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

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

Solo Vacations: The 29 Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Stephanie Granada is a writer and editor focusing on travel, beauty, home, and health. Her bylines have appeared in Sunset , Outside , Southern Living , Woman's Day , Brit + Co. , National Geographic Traveler , and others.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences. Exciting things just seem to happen when you're traveling solo.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida. There are plenty of ways a solo beach traveler can occupy themselves in Naples. You can check out the beach at Naples Pier, go kayaking in the mangroves , or hit the links at one of the area's 90+ golf courses. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin watching cruise from Marco Island , just 30 minutes south of Naples. Plus, the city was ranked number one in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston may be a big city, but it can often feel like a small town. Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city's historic center on foot and can take the T, the local subway system, across the Charles River to Cambridge. In Boston, you'll find a wellspring of history and culture in museums like the fun Boston Tea Party Museum and the impressive Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , the site of one of the world's most famous art heists.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall , a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

Not everyone feels comfortable eating out at a restaurant alone, especially when traveling solo, but Portland makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food cart scene. There are many food cart parks scattered about the city where you can go and peruse a diverse offering of cuisine, from pizza to Senegalese, and enjoy your meal in a atmospheric and fun shared space. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone. Between the good meals, you can also enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or browse the shelves at the famous Powell's Books .

Asheville, North Carolina

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

If your perfect vacation includes hiking and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb Mount Pisgah (2.6 miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at Wicked Weed Brewing .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why spa destinations like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas: A Spa for You and Sedona's New Day Spa are long-standing favorites.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Art lovers will find themselves in their element in this colorful coastal city in South Carolina. The small city of Charleston is home to over 35 fine art galleries and hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel right at home. If the temperature is right, you can even take a trip out to Isle of Palms to enjoy some quality time on the beach.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to Nashville and let the city of music connect you to others. The Basement​​ , a live music venue known for its cozy vibes and spacious patio, is a must, as is 3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B's . A trip to Nashville is also a chance to try out one of its best hotels like the classic Hermitage Hotel.

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this one has a coastal advantage. From the seaside city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, or eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls at Luke's Lobster . When you're not out enjoying the water or stuffing your face with deliciously fresh seafood, you can meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without hopping in a cab. Surrounded by beautiful bay views and offering easy access to experience a Redwood forest in Muir Woods , there are plenty of things to do in and around San Francisco.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination and one of the loveliest small towns in the U.S. Solo travelers can roam the intimate downtown or head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that freeze during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off California's iconic Highway 1 is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook. However, solo travelers may feel most at ease exploring the many art galleries like the Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture .

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that run right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

 Marje/ Getty Images

Savannah's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a haunted pub crawl through town or book an architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels. The best time to visit Savannah is in the fall and winter, when the temperatures are cooler and you can embrace the spooky spirit during Halloween when the city goes all out with on-theme activities .

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park . In addition to the gorgeous scenery of the park, you can also discover it's unique history as a wellness destination .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole may be home to a world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two. The town itself offers plenty to do when you're not drinking or skiing, like rodeo nights at the Jackson Hole Rodeo and incredible pastries at the James Beard-recognized Persephone Bakery .

Seattle, Washington

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's ), going to the top of the Space Needle , and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an architect if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. The city's love of design is also noticeable in the hotel scene, where sophistication meets Midwestern hospitality. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the famous bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but Salt Lake City doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. Among the many things to do in town, you will also have your pick of exciting day trips to nearby state parks, or you can use the city as a launchpad to explore Utah's stunning geology at national parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon .

Fort Collins, Colorado

dlewis33/E+/Getty Images

If you're a beer lover, head to Fort Collins, a Colorado town with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of New Belgium Brewing (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend Zwei Brewing Co. , Maxline Brewing , and Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. Solo travelers will love the atmosphere of the downtown area, which is so charming it was the inspiration for Walt Disney when designing Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

Austin, Texas

The quickest way to bond with a stranger? Shared musical taste. Austin has plenty of opportunities to bump into fellow music lovers. Stay on or near South Congress Avenue, where trendy properties like the Hotel Magdalena provide the ideal base for visiting the street's iconic venues. Other ‘hoods you can easily get to include East Austin, booming with hipster bars and food trucks; South Lamar with its great shops; and Rainey Street, beloved among college students. Visit March through November to see the bats flying under the Ann W. Richards bridge — it's one of the best things to do in Austin , as is indulging in the city's incredible food.

Islamorada, Florida

Of all the towns in the Florida Keys , Islamorada has the homiest feel. Locals are happy to regale you with tales of family squabbles and fishing exploits at any of the seaside watering holes. For an elevated dining experience, snag a barstool at Chef Michael’s and order the whole lionfish. It's a big but manageable dish, made from an invasive species that Floridians pride themselves on removing from local waters and serving as a tasty dinner instead. When you're done, rest your head at one of the cozy cottages at Moorings Village.

Louisville, Kentucky

Kentucky is known for its hospitality and Louisville for its bourbon , meaning solo travelers can find good friends and good drinks while exploring this Southern city. NuLu is the most happening neighborhood, but Old Louisville is the place to hunker down if you’re a sucker for history and architecture. Downtown offers new hotels and inventive restaurants, while Butchertown and Germantown pair up-and-coming bars and businesses with impressive vintage architecture.

Marfa, Texas

Artists in search of a solitary life have been drawn to Marfa for decades. Today, the population hovers just under 2,000, but there’s enough art, food, and quirk for a city many times that size. El Cosmico offers outstanding glamping and communal spaces, while art houses like the Chinati Foundation keep visitors entertained. Though it's more than three hours from the closest airport, this flatland village offers progressive galleries, mystifying desert skies, and a sparse beauty that makes it one of the best small towns in Texas .

New York, New York

New York City might be full of crowds, but it’s also a welcoming hub for parties of one. There are sleek hotels with bars that draw worldly travelers and locals, some of the best art and shopping in the world, and more food and drink options than you can fit into a month-long trip. If you need help deciding what to do on your visit, take a look at our three-day weekend guide .

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is one of the safest states in the country — and solo travelers wanting to enjoy that security will find a great home base in Portsmouth. This waterfront town is one of the state's most pedestrian-friendly communities, and with a colonial heritage that dates back to the 1600s, it's fantastic for history buffs. Portsmouth knows its food, as is perhaps best showcased in the dozen oyster farms active offshore in the Great Bay. Sample their best bivalves at The Franklin, an upscale seafood joint run by James Beard-nominated chef Matt Louis.

San Diego, California

San Diego combines the laid-back vibes of SoCal with the multicultural energy of a city located right on the Mexican border. From mild weather and great surfing to vibrant West Coast sunsets, it has lots to offer, making it a great place to spend a few days. Opportunities for hiking and watersports abound, while coastal areas like La Jolla and Del Mar offer a bevy of chic hotels where a solo traveler can catch some oceanside R&R.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Solo travelers in search of spiritual healing should look no further than Santa Fe . Book a night at Ten Thousand Waves, an upscale lodge inspired by Japanese hot spring resorts and decked out with secluded soaking tubs. Downtown, you’ll find historical landmarks, handmade tchotchkes, and restaurants serving delectable Southwestern food. Beyond the adobe architecture and unique attractions, the best thing you can do in Santa Fe is meet its colorful characters.

Washington, D.C.

Museums are best explored alone, and in Washington, D.C. , you have more than 20 to choose from—many of which are free. The District also has a hot food scene, and as a solo diner, you'll have the best shot at getting into the most highly coveted spots. To get far away from D.C.’s political crowds, head to a hip residential neighborhood like Shaw, where you can imbibe at Maxwell Park Wine Bar or catch a show at the Howard Theatre.

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

Lovable Michigan Travel Deals: ORV park passes, Up North golf savings

• Published: Apr. 25, 2024, 8:05 a.m.

The Eldorado Golf Course is one of nine courses around the Cadillac area. Photo provided by the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau. CAVB

• Tanda Gmiter | [email protected]

Ready to head outside? With the weather warming up, there’s no excuse to stay indoors. When you’re planning your next vacation, start by thinking about all the fresh air activities you’ve been missing this winter.

Golf, hiking, ORV riding and fishing can be done all across our state. Lots of spots are rolling out spring deals for travelers. So gas up your ride, pack a bag and tap into your sense of adventure.

It’s time to travel and save a few bucks. Here are some of the deals rolling into our in-box this week:

Cadillac Area Golf Deals

For a lot of downstate folks, Cadillac is where Up North begins. There’s great fishing and boating. It’s working hard to be an ORV destination with news coming soon about a new scenic trail network. But already this spring, it’s all about the golf. And there are lots of courses to pick from - and lots of deals to snag.

“The Cadillac area has nine courses to choose from, all within 20 minutes of downtown,” tourism staff said. “Each course has its own unique charm and playability appealing to all skill levels, but they all offer the natural beauty and friendly hospitality that will keep you coming back.

“With two stay and play options, great shopping, and restaurants, as well as dozens more opportunities for fun in the outdoors like ORV trail riding, hiking, biking and fishing - there is so much to see and do in Cadillac.”

Some of the deals are pretty cool. Evergreen Resort (home of the friendly Curly’s Pub) is offering an overnight golf package starting at $155 per person. And the Missaukee Golf Club is letting juniors golf for free. There’s even some Cadillac area ORV deals, and $1 off pints at the downtown Clam Lake Beer Company.

See all the Cadillac area golf deals on the website here.

Drummond Island's ORV and ATV trails are among the most scenic and rugged in the entire state.

Stay and Play on Michigan’s Drummond Island

What if you needed to drive onto a car ferry for a short trip to reach your next vacation? That can happen if you’re headed to Drummond Island at the very eastern edge of the Upper Peninsula. Drummond Island Resort and Conference Center has a few spring travel packages, all bundled with perks for people who make the drive and want to enjoy a lot of fresh air once they arrive. The golf deals are popular right now, but it’s not the only special on deck.

Second Round of Golf is free with Drummond Island Resort’s Stay & Play Package: “Enjoy The Rock Golf Course with our Stay & Play package that includes a discounted rate on your room or cabin, 18 holes of golf for two registered guests and cart. BONUS second round of golf included for each registered guest. Limited time offer. Available until June 3rd, 2024.” Find more details on the resort’s website here.

Other deals include:

• Spring Getaway Deal: Enjoy the best of spring on Drummond Island and save up to 15% off regular room rates. Book by April 30th, 2024.
• Turtle Ridge ORV Park Free Pass Deal: This package is built for the off-roading enthusiast and includes free daily access to Turtle Ridge ORV park for one vehicle during your stay.
• Family Recreation Package: Get 10% off overnight lodging, a 2-topping pizza, a 2-liter bottle of soda and a round at our putt-putt golf course with this family friendly package.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Pressure on Murphy, NJSEA to share details on FIFA World Cup costs, transportation grows

4-minute read.

As FIFA walks back the requirement for free public transportation for the World Cup, calls are growing for Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration to share details about the agreements and investments New Jersey agreed to in order to host World Cup soccer matches in 2026.

Among the outstanding questions is what Garden State taxpayers are projected to pay to host eight matches, including the final.

State Sen. Michael Testa, a Republican on the state Senate budget committee, said it “never hurt to be more transparent.”

Sen. Paul Sarlo, a Democrat who chairs the budget committee and represents the Meadowlands region, echoed Testa and said these issues will be among the topics discussed during budget hearings with the state Treasury Department in May.

Although the tournament is still more than two years away, New Jersey and New York City began the bidding process with FIFA in 2017. The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority partnered with city officials to sign a contract to pursue the bid with FIFA in 2018. An addendum was signed in 2022, but the particulars of those documents were only recently made public.

Free public transportation to World Cup matches?

The NJSEA and New York City both signed on the dotted line to require free public transportation to matches and fan events in that 2018 contract, a provision that came as a shock when it was publicly disclosed last week given a recent budget decision that will increase NJ Transit fares 21% before the World Cup final.

FIFA, the multibillion-dollar international soccer organization that oversees the tournament, appears to be walking back the free public transport requirement, officials said.

"FIFA can confirm that the hosting requirements across all host cities for the FIFA World Cup 26 have been updated as follows: All Match Ticket holders and accredited individuals shall be able to access transport (public or additionally planned transport) at cost on matchdays to allow travel to Stadiums on match days. This change has been communicated to all host cities," a spokesperson for the organization said in an emailed statement Thursday.

Statements from the host committee, Murphy spokesperson Natalie Hamilton and NJSEA spokesperson Brian Aberback were identical, and they said, "Since the original contract was drafted in 2017, FIFA has advised the host committee that providing free public transit is no longer a requirement of the host cities" and that there are "no plans to provide free public transportation."

Beyond the emailed statement from FIFA, nothing has been produced in writing to show if there is a change to the language in the legally binding agreements.

Alex Ambrose of New Jersey Policy Perspective noted the provision shows the state and FIFA recognize that “one of the best ways to get people out of cars and onto safer, cleaner modes of transportation like transit is to get more affordable and more accessible.”

“We do need as many people as possible using transit, but we need that 100% of the time, not just for big events like this,” Ambrose said.

Earlier: Free transit? No tax collection? We got NJ contract to host World Cup. Here's what it says

Testa hasn’t looked at the contract yet, but the idea of free public transportation was something that concerned him.

“Public transportation is so severely lacking in South Jersey. I have a real problem with public transportation being free for a sporting event when we should be focusing on … utilizing public transportation to move people in more rural counties,” he said.

He noted NJ Transit is “operating at about a billion-dollar deficit ” and thinks the focus should be expanding its operations into South Jersey where transportation is needed to “move bodies to where the jobs are.”

Questions remain on state's agreements with NYC, FIFA

Murphy has been a staunch advocate for hosting the global spectacle in East Rutherford. The eight matches set to take place at MetLife Stadium will span a weekslong period in June and July of 2026, after he leaves office.

June 2026 will be the end of Murphy's final budget, and July 2026 will mark the start of his successor’s first. Ambrose pointed out the change in leadership is among the reasons transparency is so important.

“We keep hearing about all these huge economic benefits, that this will be great for New Jersey, but if that's true, then it shouldn't hurt the state at all to be more transparent about these costs,” she said.

Ambrose also noted FIFA and the administration are touting the job creation the tournament will bring but the “reality is that those jobs are also short-term jobs.” And while the state is dedicating time, resources and money to the improvements necessary for FIFA, she said, “we still don't know if we, as New Jersey residents, are going to see any of those benefits."

The Murphy administration has said there are currently no tax breaks for the international organization , but ultimately the decision to provide such relief would be in the hands of the Legislature anyway.

Testa expressed concerns about the economic boon that the tournament is supposed to bring.

“I've looked into how cities that host the Olympics have turned out and fared after they hosted the Olympics, and it seems to me that it's not the economic boom that it's supposed to be for those municipalities,” he said. Testa did say other cities have had to build whole stadiums to support hosting bids, which is not the case here.

Ambrose said FIFA and other big corporations stand to benefit from this event as opposed to “New Jersey residents, most of whom won't even be able to afford a ticket to the game,” and that if the state is going to invest more in public safety, transportation and infrastructure, “we should be able to make those improvements 100% of the time, not just because we have one big event that's coming.”

There is still no projected or estimated cost for the tournament, either. The host committee, Hamilton and Aberback all said the "vast majority of costs associated with the FIFA World Cup will be paid for through private and corporate sources through fundraising managed by the host committee" and the state "will pay for specific public services during the FIFA World Cup." Examples of what could be funded by public dollars, according to the host committee, Hamilton and Aberback, include security, waste management, city beautification and stadium renovations.

The state will also be on the hook for the work done by NJ Transit to improve accessibility via public transportation to the stadium. The design stage alone for those projects is projected to cost more than $35 million. And while New Jersey is sharing hosting duties with New York City for the matches to be played at MetLife, there is still no contract with the city to split the costs — though New Jersey officials have said such an agreement is a work in progress.

• Latest News
• Fact Sheets
• Executive Leadership Team
• Board of Directors
• Introducing Amtrak Airo TM
• Amtrak Connects Us
• New Acela Trains
• New Era of Rail
• Long Distance Service Upgrades

April 22, 2024

Amtrak completes upgrades at durham station.

Customers will experience more accessible path to travel

WASHINGTON – Amtrak is excited to announce renovations at the Durham Station are now complete. The $1.5 million project to improve the station is part of the ongoing and companywide commitment at Amtrak to ensure a safe, efficient, and comfortable travel experience for customers.

The Amtrak Carolinian and Piedmont provide daily service to the station at 601 W. Main Street. The services are sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Transportation and operated by Amtrak and paid for through state funding and passenger fares. The trains operate between Raleigh and Charlotte, with the Carolinian continuing service to New York.

“Providing an accessible travel experience is a priority and we’re actively advancing construction, renovation, repair, and upgrade projects at stations across our national network,” Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility Dr. David Handera said. “We are pleased we delivered these improvements to the Durham station and for our customers and community.”

The renovation project included the installation of new doors and an automatic system for customers to enter and exit the station, and upgrades to the men’s and women’s restrooms. A new fire alarm system and signs were installed. A cane detection rail, a horizontal bar, was installed at the bottom of the ticket counter. The bar is detectable by a person who uses a cane, and it will alert them the counter is within their path.

Customers will access new accessible pathways extending from the parking lot to the station and platform, and accessible parking spaces. The station features new signs along the platform, parking lot and customer drop off area.

“The Federal Railroad Administration is excited about the upgrades completed at Durham Station, and we are proud of our work with Amtrak to ensure more Americans have access to the passenger rail service they need and deserve, which very much includes Americans with disabilities, our aging population, and others who rely on and benefit from accessible and convenient passenger rail,” FRA Administrator Amit Bose said. “As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and with funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the federal government is investing well over a billion dollars in rail projects and planning activities across North Carolina, and we will continue to invest even more across the country.”

Amtrak has invested more than $850 million since 2011 in accessibility upgrades and improvement projects at 120 stations across the national network to ensure a safe, efficient, and comfortable travel experience for customers with disabilities. The improvements include repairs and upgrades to platforms, ramps and sidewalks, and renovations to entranceways and restrooms, with 20 stations brought into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act last year. Another 35 stations are targeted for completion this fiscal year at a forecasted investment of $165 million.

Our program is advancing 140 station designs and 43 station construction projects as part of Amtrak’s ongoing commitment to providing accessibility by working toward 100% completion by 2029.

“Accessibility to everyone is an important part of the total passenger experience,” Jason Orthner, NCDOT Rail Division director said. “Working with Amtrak and local partners to ensure safe, accessible and convenient travel guarantee future growth and success of passenger rail in North Carolina and beyond.”

Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC)

“The upgrades at Durham Station will make North Carolinians experience traveling on Amtrak easier, safer, and more accessible,” Senator Thom Tillis said. “Amtrak’s investment in Durham is another example of their commitment to improving customer experience and rail service across our state.”

Leonardo Williams, Durham Mayor

“The Durham Station provides many of our residents an alternative mode of transportation across the state and beyond. I am excited about these renovations, as these upgrades will increase accessibility and enhance rail travel for those in need here in Durham,” Mayor Leonardo Williams said.

Comments are closed.

For More Information

Kimberly Woods [email protected] Amtrak Contact 202 906.3860

Related Posts

• Amtrak’s Harrisburg Line Track Renewal Project Moves to Second Phase on Monday, April 29 April 26, 2024
• Statement from Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner on the Passing of Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. April 24, 2024
• Amtrak Publishes Guide for West Baltimore Community Investments Funded by the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program April 18, 2024

About Amtrak®

For more than 50 years, Amtrak has connected America and modernized train travel. Offering a safe, environmentally efficient way to reach more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada, Amtrak provides travelers with an experience that sets a new standard. Book travel, check train status, access your eTicket and more through the Amtrak app . Learn more at Amtrak.com and connect with us on X , Instagram , Facebook and LinkedIn .

At Amtrak, Earth Day isn’t just one day. 🌎 Throughout April, employees volunteered their time to take care of our planet. We hosted events across the country to plant trees, clean up, and preserve Amtrak-served communities. #AmtrakGivesBack

46% more energy efficient than driving. Just saying. #EarthDay 🌎

Take a look at our Net Zero strategy and join the #AmtrakSustains mission:

Sustainability at Amtrak

Amtrak embraces sustainability as a way to operate our passenger rail business. Our company-wide Sustainability Policy ...

Media members should contact the Media Relations Office for their region (see the map and listings here ).

Nights, Holidays & Weekends: (800) 562-1904 . A representative is available by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide information regarding railroad operating matters. Phone calls are preferred if the request is urgent.

If you have a FOIA request, please click  here .

© 2024 Amtrak Media. National Railroad Passenger Corporation

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.