Get ready to uncover the enchanting beauty of Northern Italy! From the stylish streets of Milan to the serene canals of Venice, this weeklong adventure is packed with stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich history. Picture yourself savoring risotto in Milan, wandering the colorful streets of Burano, and hiking through the breathtaking Dolomites.
Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, this itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable Italian escapade that promises to delight your senses!
Itinerary of Your Weeklong Northern Italy Tour
Ready to embark on a memorable adventure through Northern Italy? This seven-day itinerary blends cultural landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and the charm of Italy’s most iconic cities.
| Day | Activities |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Milan- Visit the attractions and enjoy an evening in the Navigli district |
| Day 2 | Day trip to Lake Como: Explore Como, or visit Bellagio, ferry to Varenna |
| Day 3 | Travel to Verona: Explore Verona’s top attractions and end the day with a vibrant night |
| Day 4 | Day trip to the Dolomites: Hike in Val Gardena or Alpe di Siusi and stay overnight |
| Day 5 | Relax in the Dolomites in the morning, and in the afternoon, head for Venice |
| Day 6 | Trip to Murano and Burano for the full day, back to Venice for dinner and night stroll |
| Day 7 | Last day in Venice: explore and end the day with a relaxing dinner by the Grand Canal |
This itinerary is just a glimpse of a sample plan of what a 7-day trip to Northern Italy looks like. Feel free to adjust it to the destinations you prefer. For now, we’ll stick to the itinerary and explore more below.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration in Milan
Your journey through Northern Italy begins in the cosmopolitan city of Milan, known for its blend of modern fashion and ancient history. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or just excited to see iconic landmarks, Milan sets the tone for the incredible adventure ahead.
From its awe-inspiring cathedral to shopping and fashion hubs and stark outlet malls and markets, day one in Milan promises a captivating introduction to the north of Italy.
Morning:
Start your Northern Italy adventure with a visit to Milan’s Duomo, a stunning Gothic cathedral. Be sure to take a rooftop tour for an amazing view of the city.
Stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, located next to the Duomo.
Afternoon:
Visit Sforza Castle and its surrounding park, Parco Sempione. The castle houses various museums, including Michelangelo’s final sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà.
Enjoy a light lunch at a local trattoria and try authentic Milanese risotto or cotoletta alla Milanese.
Evening:
Wander around the Navigli district, known for its canals and vibrant nightlife. This is a great spot to enjoy dinner by the canal, where you can indulge in classic Italian dishes paired with local wines.
Day 2: Day Trip to Lake Como
After soaking in Milan’s vibrant city life, it’s time for a day trip to one of Northern Italy’s most scenic destinations—Lake Como.
Known for its tranquil waters framed by towering mountains, Lake Como is a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. Today, you’ll discover charming lakeside towns and stunning villas that make this destination so enchanting.
Morning:
Take an early morning train from Milan to Lake Como (about 30-40 minutes), or you can drive there for scenic views and flexibility. Upon arrival, head to Como town for a walk along the lakefront and explore the quaint streets.
Hop on a ferry to Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como”, to soak in the beauty of this famous town. Stroll through the gardens of Villa Melzi and enjoy the panoramic views.
Afternoon:
Continue your lake exploration with a visit to Varenna, a peaceful town filled with charming villas and stunning vistas. Visit Villa Monastero and walk along its scenic promenade.
Take the ferry back to Como and return to Milan by train. Or you can just stay the night in Lake Como, but in that case, book your stay beforehand as places fill up, especially during peak seasons.
Evening:
Relax in Milan, or at Varenna town of Lake Como, with a quiet evening, perhaps enjoying an aperitivo. If you’re back in Milan, visit the Brera district for a dinner and night stroll or vibrant atmosphere, known for its artsy vibe and great restaurants.
Day 3: Head to Verona
Next, you’ll make your way to Verona, a city brimming with romance, history, and charm. Known for its ties to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a destination where ancient Roman ruins meet Renaissance architecture.
Today is all about exploring the timeless beauty of Verona, from Juliet’s famous balcony to the city’s bustling piazzas.
Morning:
After breakfast, catch a train from Milan to Verona (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, explore the romantic streets of Verona, starting with Juliet’s Balcony for a bit of Shakespearean history.
Wander around Piazza delle Erbe, a beautiful square lined with cafes, and climb the Torre dei Lamberti for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Afternoon:
Visit the ancient Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater where operas are still performed today.
Walk along the Adige River and visit the Castelvecchio Museum to discover more of the city’s history.
Evening:
Enjoy a lovely dinner in a traditional osteria, perhaps sampling Risotto all’Amarone or other local delicacies, while soaking in Verona’s charming ambiance.
Day 4: Day Trip to the Dolomites
Get ready for a change of pace as you head into the heart of the Dolomites. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in Europe, one of the perfect destinations for hiking and outdoor exploration in Northern Italy.
Whether you’re up for a challenging trail or prefer a more leisurely walk through alpine meadows, today is all about soaking in the natural beauty of Northern Italy.
Morning:
Rent a car or join a tour and head to the Dolomites for a hiking adventure. Drive to Val Gardena or Alpe di Siusi, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque trails.
Start a gentle hike around the Seiser Alm plateau, ideal for panoramic views of the mountains and alpine meadows.
Afternoon:
Continue your adventure by hiking to Lago di Carezza, a small alpine lake known for its emerald green water.
Spend the night in one of the prominent villages such as Ortisei or Selva di Val Gardena, where you can enjoy a relaxing dinner with mountain views.
Day 5: Explore the Dolomites and Travel to Venice
After yesterday’s hike, enjoy a relaxed morning in the charming village where you stayed. Take it slow with a leisurely breakfast, explore the village, or simply bask in the stunning mountain views.
Morning:
Spend the morning at a relaxed pace, either exploring more hiking trails or simply enjoying the tranquility of the village. You could also visit the Seceda mountain for stunning views or indulge in a leisurely breakfast.
Take a stroll through the village and perhaps visit a local spa or enjoy an Italian coffee while soaking in the mountain atmosphere.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, you’ll bid farewell to the Dolomites and make your way to Venice, where the enchanting canals await.
Depart for Venice (around 2.5–3 hours drive or train). Upon arrival in Venice, settle into your hotel and head out for a peaceful evening walk around Piazza San Marco, one of the top places to visit in Venice.
Evening:
Take in the beauty of Venice at night. Wander through the alleys and across the small bridges, enjoying the quieter side of the city. Have dinner at a canal-side restaurant, perhaps trying sarde in saor or fresh Venetian seafood.
Day 6: Murano and Burano Day Trip
Today it’s time to escape the bustling streets of Venice with a full-day excursion to the islands of Murano and Burano. Famous for glass-blowing and colorful houses, these islands provide a picturesque and tranquil experience away from the city.
You’ll wander through artisanal shops, learn about Venetian craftsmanship, and enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
Morning:
Take a vaporetto (water bus) to Murano, famous for its glass-blowing workshops. Visit a glass factory to see artisans at work and perhaps purchase a handmade glass souvenir.
Stroll through Murano’s streets and visit the Glass Museum to learn about the history of glass making in Venice.
Afternoon:
Head to Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making traditions. Explore the island at your leisure and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.
Evening:
Return to Venice in the late evening and enjoy a romantic dinner near the Grand Canal, followed by a leisurely nighttime walk.
Day 7: Last Day Exploration of Venice
Your final day in Northern Italy will be spent exploring the magical city of Venice. From the majestic churches to hidden alleyways and historic bridges, Venice is filled with history, art, and mystery.
Spend the day wandering through this floating city, savoring the last moments of your Italian adventure before enjoying a relaxing dinner by the canal as the sun sets.
Morning:
Spend your last day fully immersing yourself in Venice. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and climb the Campanile di San Marco for a panoramic view of the city.
Wander through the Doge’s Palace, marveling at the intricate architecture and art.
Afternoon:
Walk through the Rialto Market and across the Rialto Bridge, stopping at local shops for souvenirs.
For a unique activity, consider a cicchetti tour, tasting small bites at traditional Venetian bars along the way.
Evening:
End your trip with a relaxing dinner by the canals, savoring Venetian classics such as baccala mantecato and reflecting on the memories you’ve created over the past week.
Additional Tips for Your Trip
Don’t get lost in the charm of Northern Italy; rather, enjoy every moment you have here. Here’s some tips to help you through:
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while summer can be hot and more crowded, especially in cities like Milan and Venice.
Transportation:
Trains: Use Italy’s efficient train system to travel between cities (Milan, Verona, Venice). For shorter journeys, book in advance for better prices.
Car Rental: For exploring the Dolomites and more remote areas like Lake Garda, renting a car is highly recommended.
Vaporetto in Venice: Use the public water buses for convenient and scenic travel across Venice and its islands.
Packing Essentials: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, pack layers for varying weather, and bring a travel adapter for Italy’s Type C, F, and L plugs.
Food & Dining: Enjoy Italy’s aperitivo tradition in Milan or Verona with drinks and small bites before dinner, sample local specialties like risotto alla Milanese, Amarone wine, and Venetian seafood, and plan meals as many restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
Language Tips: While many Italians speak English in tourist areas, learning a few basic Italian phrases (like “grazie” for thank you) can go a long way in making a good impression.
Booking Tips: For popular sites like Milan’s Duomo and Venice’s Doge’s Palace, booking tickets in advance can save you time in line. Book your stays early, especially in Venice and the Dolomites, as prices can rise closer to your travel date.
Hiking in the Dolomites: Check weather forecasts before embarking on any hike, and bring appropriate gear like a water bottle and sunscreen. Trails can be long, so plan your routes ahead.
Venice Tips: Be mindful of Venice’s unique geography—explore the small streets and quieter neighborhoods for a more local experience. Avoid sitting down at cafes in major tourist spots if you’re on a budget, as they can be pricey. Instead, find a small local eatery off the beaten path.
Cheers to Your Trip
As your Northern Italy journey comes to a close, you’ll leave with a heart full of memories and a camera brimming with stunning shots. Whether it’s the taste of fresh pasta, the awe of majestic mountains, or the charm of canal-side strolls, each experience adds a dash of magic to your travel tale. So, pack your bags, and get ready for your next Italian adventure—arrivederci!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many days do you need in Northern Italy?
A minimum of 7 to 10 days is recommended to explore Northern Italy effectively, covering major cities and attractions.
What is the best base for exploring Northern Italy?
Milan is often considered the best base due to its excellent transportation links to other cities like Venice, Verona, and the Dolomites.
What are the best months to travel to Northern Italy?
The best months to visit are June and September, offering great weather and fewer tourists compared to peak summer months.
How to get around Northern Italy?
The most convenient ways to get around include using Italy’s efficient train system for city travel, renting a car to explore the Dolomites and lakes, and using Vaporetto (water buses) in Venice.
What are the best cities to visit in Northern Italy?
Key cities include Milan, Venice, Verona, and Bergamo, each offering unique cultural and historical attractions.
Which is better, Lake Como or Lake Garda?
Both lakes are beautiful, but Lake Como is often favored for its stunning scenery and charming villages, while Lake Garda offers more recreational activities.
