tours in northern italy

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Spotlight on northern italy, about this tour.

Unpack once and take in the vineyards, villas, peaks, and prosecco of Veneto. Settle into a suburban villa nearby Treviso, the historic mainland outpost for the island-city of Venice. Savor the Venetian inspiration on terrafirma, solid ground, so you have the flexibility to explore on land and by water, with time to dive into Venice, Verona, and The Dolomites. Take in the artist haven of Asolo and get a taste of Italy’s Prosecco region. Immerse yourself in local culture at a historic villa near Bassano del Grappa, retracing the history of a noble family of Venice. Your opportunity to dive in and truly experience Northern Italy is here.

Your Tour Includes

• 1 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Tiramisu Cooking Class
• Choice on Tour: Verona Painted City or Verona and its Waters Walking Tours

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

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Starting at $75.00

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Best time for travel spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites.

While just about any month is great to visit Italy, there are a few prime times of the year for the Spotlight on Northern Italy tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Winter: If you love the mountains, be sure to visit between January and March. Visiting the Dolomites snow-covered mountains is a magical sight! These months also avoid any scheduled maintenance closures for the Falzarego Pass cable cars.

Spring: Enjoy Italy in the spring season, with fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures. In March, the weather is warm, but not too hot. Just imagine exploring the towns’ cobblestone streets during this quieter time of year.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Get to know the romantic city of Verona.

Cruise the waters around Venice and dive into the island city.

Enjoy an up-close look at The Dolomites, one of the most beautiful mountain chains in the world.

Cultural Experiences:

Discover hilltop Asolo, awarded the title of Italy’s Most Beautiful Village.

Explore Bassano, the hometown Italy’s renowned schnapps called grappa.

Tour a countryside villa belonging to one of the most ancient families of the Venetian Republic.

Culinary Inclusions:

Master a few tips from a pastry chef and try your hand at making tiramisu according to the traditional recipe.

Tour a winery in the Prosecco hills and sample this delectable sparkling wine.

Step back in time at a festive farewell dinner in a Venetian villa.

• Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration
• Prosecco Winery Tour
• The Dolomites
• Bassano del Grappa
• Venetian Villa Visit

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Experience the romance that can only be found in Venice – La Serenìssima – while traveling on its famous waterways. Partake in one of Venice’s most famous pastimes – a gondola cruise. Take a pleasant stroll toward the Grand Canal to board your gondola. As you relax in your elegant watercraft, your gondolier navigates the Grand Canal as well as smaller side canals. Admire the scenery as you listen to the melodic voice serenading you in true Italian style – just like in those romantic Italian movies!

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Country Roads of Northern Italy

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From Mountain Peaks to Lovely Lakes, See Stunning Northern Italy on a 10-Day Guided Tour

See the breathtaking scenery of Northern Italy on this 10-day guided tour. Settle into Cortina d'Ampezzo, an exclusive ski resort nestled in the limestone peaks of the Dolomites; explore designer stores and enjoy panoramic views of the unique mountain range. In Venice, drift along the city’s famous canals as you are serenaded by traditional songs — then sail on to Murano to see a skilled craftsman turn molten glass into a colorful work of art. Meet a local fisherman in Lake Maggiore, where you will tour Isola dei Pescatori, then indulge in a farm-to-table feast featuring fresh-caught fish and delicious local wine.

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Start Milan, Italy. End Lake Maggiore, Italy.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNSECO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Northern Italy Tours

Northern Italy tours are an incredible experience for anyone with a love of culture and mountainous terrain. Home to the breathtaking Italian Alps and the Dolomites, tours in Northern Italy are a bucket list adventure for hiking and mountain bike enthusiasts. With a unique blend of alpine cultures from Italy, France, Germany, and Austria, Northern Italy tours are a wonderful option for an active holiday with a cultural twist.

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Displaying 15 of 28 tours

Southern Italy

Saint Francis Way to Assisi Trek

Embroidered with fascinating tales, ancient medieval architectural wonders, and local delicacies like wine, cheese, and truffles, this self-guided pilgrimage along the Saint Francis Way not only takes you through a pinnacle point in spiritual history but it introduces you to Italy’s quintessential cultural greats in a unique, inspiring way.

St. Francis Way Assisi to Spoleto Walking Tour

Traverse Umbria, “the green heart of Italy,” where mouthwatering local cuisine and medieval remnants dot the lush landscape. While this seven-day self-guided tour from Assisi to Spoleto encompasses Italy’s famed quirks, it also provides a meaningful, thought-provoking spiritual twist.

Walking St. Francis Way, Spoleto to Rieti

The historic path from Spoleto to Rieti takes you along the footsteps of St. Francis, the man that 800 years ago decided to embrace poverty, living in close contact with the animals and leading an errant life, trying to bring joy in other people’s lives. The Walking St. Francis Way, Spoleto to Rieti tour leads you through gorgeous Umbria on the same path that he and many pilgrims in the years since have followed.

Walking & Wine Tour through Barolo and Barbera

Imagine walking through Italy’s famous Piedmont region, enjoying the countryside and then sampling some of the best wines in Barolo and Barbera. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the best in Italian wine and food.

Northern Italy

Piedmont Barolo Hills Wine & Bike Tour

Do you want to combine your cycling with wine tasting, culture and Italian food? If so, then this is the tour for you! This incredible bicycle tour of Italy’s Piedmont wine country takes you through beautiful Italian cities and towns like Alba, Barolo, and Acqui Terme. You’ll sample some of the best wine and champagne produced in the country and dine on gourmet meals.

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The Ligurian Riviera Walking Tour

The Ligurian Riviera is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world and the Ligurian Riviera Walking Tour is one of the most immersive ways to experience it. Walking along the coastal footpaths of the Ligurian Riviera offers striking views of lush Mediterranean vineyards, wildflower and olive groves, while inland there are dense pine and chestnut forests waiting to be discovered. The trip starts with a walk to the unique church of San Fruttuoso and the famous seaside town of Portofino. Then travel by train to the picturesque villages of Sestri Levante, Bonassola and Monterosso, entering the magical land of the Cinque Terre, five unique fishing villages set like gems along the jagged high cliff coastline that runs all the way to the colorful village of Portovenere where you can savor delicious local cuisine and relax with a glass of white wine on a seaside café terrace. Get in touch with the ultimate dreamy location on this unforgettable walking tour.

Piedmont Barolo to Barbaresco Walking Tour

This casual walking tour of Italy’s stunning Piedmont region takes you from Barolo to Barbaresco, where you’ll sip Italy’s finest wines and marvel at world-class views of the Alps.

5-Day Barolo Bike Tour

The rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and historic buildings of Piedmont offer the perfect backdrop for the ideal getaway in the Italian countryside. This incredible 5-Day Barolo Bike Tour will have you living la dolce vita, as you meander through orchards and vineyards, meet locals in charming little villages, and taste some of the best wines Italy has to offer, such as Barolo and Barbaresco. For those who want to slow down and explore the Barolo region at their own pace, the 5-Day Barolo Bike Tour will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.

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Venice to Croatia Cycling Tour

The self-guided cycling tour from Venice to Porec, Croatia is a unique opportunity to ride the Adriatic coastline all the way from Venice to Croatia. This tour offers unbeatable scenery and unforgettable experiences.

Italian Riviera Trek

Experience the wonder and majesty of the Mediterranean and the Italian Riviera as you embark upon this trek across the Ligurian coast from historic Genoa to Sestri Levante and the Gulf of Tigullio. Immerse yourself in nature as you walk the hidden byways of the Portofino regional park and let the stunning scenery restore you.

Road Bike Dolomites to Venice

Explore gorgeous Northern Italy on this one-way road biking tour. The Cycle the Dolomites tour is an 8-day self-guided itinerary that will lead you from the UNESCO designated Dolomite mountains into the romantic canal city of Venice.

Italian Lakes

Alpine Crossing 4: Lake Garda to Venice

This is it, the third and final stage of the epic Alpine Crossing route from Garmish to Venice. This stage is from the north shores of Lake Garda, where you walk along ancient pilgrim routes through the rock deserts of the Sarca-valley down into the Etsch-valley to Trento.

Cinque Terre Pilgrimage to Portovenere

Hike beside the Mediterranean through the Cinque Terre National Park and explore charming Italian villages steeped in history. Experience great food and wine at each stop as you travel the ancient winding footpaths connecting the famous five Cinque Terre villages on this seven-day hiking tour from Sestri Levante to Portovenere.

Highlights of Venice Luxury Cycling Tour

Experience cultural charm, lavish luxury, and beautifully scenic landscapes on the Highlights of Venice Luxury Cycling Tour! Not only will you encounter the lagoon landscape of Venice, but also the fertile fields and river landscapes of the surrounding region of Veneto. Along the tour you can expect white sandy beaches like those in Chioggia/Sottomarina, and in historic cities like Vicenza and Treviso, you will mingle with the locals! In between you will have plenty of time to absorb the breathtaking scenery, and the wonderfully relaxed Italian way of life does the rest to ensure you enjoy your time cycling in Veneto. For those who want a leisurely adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful and romantic regions, the Highlights of Venice Luxury Cycling Tour is the perfect adventure for you.

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Rock Climbing Finale Ligure

Join this guided climbing tour and experience a week of a climbers lifestyle! Stay in a climbers hostel or camp and focus on great climbing in one of the most beautiful places on earth: Finale Ligure.

1-15 of 28 tours

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Northern Italy General Information

Where to go in northern italy.

When planning where to go in Northern Italy for adventure, you'll find countless options nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery. Starting points like Turin, Trento, and Bolzano offer easy access to outdoor adventures, while iconic destinations like the Dolomites and Lake Como beckon travelers with their natural beauty and thrilling activities.

What to do in Northern Italy

From hiking tours in the Dolomites to cycling adventures in Piedmont , Northern Italy offers a wealth of outdoor activities to suit every adventurer's taste. Ski tours are popular in the winter months, while summer brings opportunities for water sports on the lakes and rock climbing in the alpine regions.

When to go to Northern Italy

Choosing when to visit Northern Italy depends on your preferred activities and the season. Spring and autumn are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying mild weather, while summer offers perfect conditions for hiking, cycling, and water sports. Winter is the time to hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding in the Italian Alps.

Top 10 Adventures in the Northern Italy

• Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hiking Tour : Embark on a guided trek to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Dolomites, enjoying panoramic views of jagged peaks and alpine landscapes along the way.
• Barolo Wine Cycling Tour : Cycle through the picturesque vineyards of the Langhe region in Piedmont on a guided tour, sampling world-renowned Barolo wines and indulging in gourmet cuisine.
• Sellaronda Downhill Ski Tour : Experience the famous Sellaronda ski circuit in the Dolomites, skiing or snowboarding around the majestic Sella Massif and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
• Val di Sole Mountain Biking Tour : Explore the rugged terrain of Val di Sole in Trentino on a guided mountain biking tour, tackling technical singletracks, forest trails, and scenic descents through pristine wilderness.
• Venice to Croatia Cycling Tour : Cycle along the stunning Adriatic coast on a guided tour from Venice to Croatia, pedaling through scenic landscapes, historic towns, and picturesque seaside villages, and experiencing the rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine of the region.
• Piedmont Val Maira Walking Tour : Discover the remote beauty of Val Maira in Piedmont on a guided walking tour, trekking through pristine wilderness, lush forests, and charming mountain villages, and experiencing the traditional culture and hospitality of the Italian Alps.
• Alpe Adria Cycling Tour : Explore the scenic route from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea on the Alpe Adria Cycling tour, cycling through diverse landscapes, charming towns, and cultural highlights from Salzburg, Austria, to Grado, Italy, and enjoying the culinary delights and hospitality of the region.
• Cross-Country Ski the Tyrolean Dolomites : Glide through the snowy landscapes of the Tyrolean Dolomites on a cross-country skiing tour, exploring pristine winter trails, enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, and experiencing the tranquility of the alpine wilderness.
• Windsurfing on Lake Garda : Ride the wind and waves of Lake Garda on a windsurfing excursion, enjoying thrilling rides and stunning views of the Italian Alps and picturesque lakeside towns.
• Brenta Dolomites Via Ferrata Adventure : Test your courage on the challenging Via Ferrata routes of the Brenta Dolomites, traversing exposed cliffs, iron ladders, and suspension bridges for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Travel tips for Northern Italy tours

How widely is english spoken in northern italy.

English is widely spoken in tourist areas and major cities in Northern Italy, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, proficiency may vary in smaller towns and rural areas.

How long should I go to Northern Italy?

The duration of your stay in Northern Italy depends on your travel preferences and the activities you wish to experience. A week to ten days is often recommended to explore major cities and scenic regions thoroughly.

Should I bring euros to Northern Italy or use a credit card?

Euros are the official currency in Italy, including Northern Italy. While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it's advisable to carry some cash for transactions in smaller establishments and rural areas.

Is Northern Italy family-friendly?

Yes, Northern Italy is family-friendly, offering a range of activities and attractions suitable for families, including theme parks, museums, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.

What’s the best way to get around Northern Italy?

The best way to get around Northern Italy depends on your itinerary and preferences. Options include trains, buses, rental cars, and taxis. Public transportation is efficient and well-connected, especially between major cities.

What are the accommodation types in Northern Italy?

Accommodation options in Northern Italy range from luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and cozy bed and breakfasts. Additionally, agriturismi (farm stays) offer a unique lodging experience in rural areas.

What is the time zone in Northern Italy?

Northern Italy operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1 during standard time and UTC+2 during daylight saving time (from late March to late October).

Can I do a self-guided tour in Northern Italy?

Yes, self-guided tours are popular in Northern Italy, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace. Detailed maps, guidebooks, and mobile apps are available to assist with navigation and sightseeing.

Can I do guided tours in Northern Italy?

Yes, guided tours are available in Northern Italy for various interests, including cultural sightseeing, outdoor adventures, food and wine tours, and historical excursions. Knowledgeable guides provide insights and enhance the travel experience.

How to get to Northern Italy?

Northern Italy is accessible by air, train, bus, and car. Major airports in Milan, Venice, and Bologna serve international and domestic flights, while high-speed trains connect Northern Italian cities with other regions of Italy and Europe.

What are the major towns in Northern Italy?

Major towns in Northern Italy include Milan, Turin, Venice, Verona, Bologna, Bergamo, Padua, and Trieste, each offering unique attractions, cultural experiences, and culinary delights for travelers to explore.

What are the must-try dishes in Northern Italy?

Northern Italy is renowned for its culinary delights. Some must-try dishes include risotto alla Milanese, tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), polenta with porcini mushrooms, osso buco, and tiramisu for dessert.

Are there any famous festivals or events in Northern Italy?

Yes, Northern Italy hosts several renowned festivals and events throughout the year. Examples include the Venice Carnival, Milan Fashion Week, Verona Opera Festival, Palio di Siena, and the Alba White Truffle Fair.

What outdoor activities are available in Northern Italy during the summer months?

During the summer, Northern Italy offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking in the Dolomites, cycling around Lake Garda, water sports on Lake Como, rock climbing in the Aosta Valley, and exploring the Cinque Terre hiking trails.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites in Northern Italy?

Yes, Northern Italy boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic centers of Florence, Venice, and Verona, the Cinque Terre coastal area, the Dolomites mountain range, and the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

What are the best wine regions to visit in Northern Italy?

Northern Italy is home to renowned wine regions, such as Piedmont (known for Barolo and Barbaresco), Veneto (famous for Prosecco and Amarone), Friuli-Venezia Giulia (notable for Friulano and Ribolla Gialla), and Lombardy (recognized for Franciacorta sparkling wine).

Tours in Northern Italy by Activity

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7 Day Northern Italy Tours & Trips

Find all the best 7 day adventures heading to Northern Italy, stopping at places like Milan and Venice. There are 108 trips that go to Northern Italy, with the most popular time to go being September, which has the most number of tours.

108 Northern Italy 7 day tour packages with 72 reviews

Great Alps- Luxury/Small Group Bike Tour

Beautiful Tours on the Alps, demanding, but with Luca and the van assiatance i could deal with these passes serenely. We had delicious dinner and a confortable accommodation

• In-depth Cultural

7 Days ITALIAN RIVIERA AND PIEDMONT TOUR – from MILAN

Our tour guide/driver Alessandro was excellent. He was informative, courteous, easy to understand, always on time, good driver—-in short, a very pleasant man. The additional 3 guides were good. We would like to suggest that some meals together for guide & tour group would be a good addition. Alessandro was invaluable on our personal side trip to Pratlegoine. We wouldn’t have found this village or communicated with the people if Alessandro hadn’t been with us.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Dolomites Guided Walk

It was a great trip. people were very friendly. Guide paid lot of attention to the safety of the walk. One of the Refugio did not have hot water (should look into it). The other Refugio had too many people in one dormitory. Never the less an excellent trip..

7 Days NORTHERN LAKES AND DOLOMITES TOUR - from Milan

I’m so pleased that I have the opportunity to write a review about our trip. At the end of our trip, I was given just a few lines on a piece of paper to give my opinion, and I told our tour guide there and then, that I HAVE TO make sure and get online to write a detailed review! Our trip was fantastic all thanks to Tour Radar! There wasn’t any day where I felt lost or out of sorts with what to do and how to get about. Even for hiccups like suddenly getting sick, their staff was so kind and understanding. One quick call, and they’re always available for your littlest of questions. Our guides took good care of us and were so gentlemanly! Special thanks to Guido for making our trip extra comfy and easy going, and sharing his tips on finding the best/reasonable restaurants. Also, thank you to Alessandro for tolerating our pickiness and indecisiveness, and allowing us to customize the trip of a lifetime! This was such an amazing and memorable experience, and we’d be sure to retain your services again!

• Sightseeing

Alpine Adventure: Discovering the Dolomites

• Food & Culinary
• Wine tasting

The Northern Lakes

Closer hotel in Verona to meeting point of tour. Change time of train from Verona to Milan. Nice driver and Mercedes to Modena and Mantua, but we didn't know how long we could spend in each place. Perhaps overnight in Mantua. Much more to see. Generally good, conveniently located hotels. City tour in Milan was too large (27 people) and bi-lingual, Should have been split into two groups. We would travel again with Flag.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Alpe-Adria-Cycle Path 2 Villach-Triest 7/6

• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Cinque Terre : Hiking Self Guided Tour - 7 days from Sestri Levante

Tuscany to Cinque Terre: Wines, Villages & Unforgettable Walks

Abano Terme based in one hotel

Alpe Adria Cycle Route II for Families From Villach to Grado

Venice to Milan: 7-Days Alps & Dolomites Tour

Around Lake Garda

Lake Garda – based in one hotel: Trento, Verona, Mantua and Brescia.

7 Days NORTHERN LAKES AND ITALIAN RIVIERA TOUR - from Milan

What people love about 7 day northern italy tours.

Our tour guide/driver Alessandro was excellent. He was informative, courteous, easy to understand, always on time, good driver—-in short, a very pleasant man. The additional 3 guides were good. We would like to suggest that some meals together for guide & tour group would be a good addition. Alessandro was invaluable on our personal side trip to Pratlegoine. We wouldn’t have found this village or communicated with the people if Alessandro hadn’t been with us.

The tour was very much as advertised as far as the locations, activities, etc. There was a good balance of touring and free time. DD did a great job as our guide. She was caring and knowledgeable, and what she didn't know right away she found out and got back with us. She managed the group well (in three languages), kept us on time and made good suggestions for free-time activities.

Other Durations in Northern Italy

• 10 day Tours (124)
• 2 week Tours (13)

Other Regions in Italy

• South Italy (617)
• Central Italy (280)
• Sicily (223)
• Campania (183)
• Amalfi Coast (178)
• Tuscany (169)
• Puglia (125)
• Italian Alps (111)
• Apulia (109)
• Prosecco (109)
• Veneto (69)
• Italian Lakes District (67)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (65)
• South Tyrol (53)
• The Dolomites (47)
• Lazio, Marche & Abruzzo (47)

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Your First-Class Ticket to Experience Italy’s Top Wine Regions!

TRAVEL WITH US

Our mission is to provide a vibrant taste of the Italy that has captured our hearts. Our luxury food and wine tours are focused on celebrating the friends, wines, food, and culture that we have spent years enjoying and love to share with others. 

Joy of Italy Tours - exclusive access to Northern Italy travel

Experience authentic italy through regional wines & cuisine.

Hi, We are Adam & Natalie Richard

Discovering Italy has been our passion for more than 25 years! The people, food, villages, and wines make it a lifelong journey. We own and operate Uva Imports, a US-based wine importing company and have been lucky to call Italy our second home. We spend a part of every year in Italy and our relationships have grown over time. While traveling the United States hosting wine dinners and events at some of the country's most elite restaurants and clubs, people ask for recommendations on our favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations, restaurants, and local wines to try. In 2012, we began taking distributors, sommeliers, restaurateurs, and other wine professionals to join us on our Northern Italy travel experiences, visiting the places we know so well. Over time the excitement and interest in our Northern Italy tours spread and private customers were regularly asking to join our industry tours so today we share our Joy of Italy with everyone.

We invite you to join us as we eat & drink our way through Italy. 

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Italy is so much more than Venice, Florence, Rome, and Amalfi.

We love these cities and have visited them many times, but Italy offers so much more to explore. Throughout our years of travel, a handful of destinations continue to pull us back for their charm, architecture and exceptional wine production. When crafting our luxury tours to Italy, we knew right away the regions we felt were not to be missed. We choose to create a Northern Italy itinerary, highlighting Piedmont, the Veneto, and Friuli for undiscovered tourism while also offering a diverse perspective into what makes Northern Italy so special. Many of our tour guests are wine lovers and passionate travelers having already visited many major sites throughout Italy, they are now seeking a more exclusive and intimate luxury food and wine experience. Our Northern Italy travel experiences deliver this access.

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Relax, explore, learn, and enjoy!  

Join us as we explore a few of Italy’s top wine regions and family producers, learning from the winemakers themselves. Enjoy a selection of our favorite restaurants including fine dining Michelin-rated gems to festive osterias. Savor beautiful pairings of local wines with the native grapes of each region. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with your favorite travel buddy, our luxury tours are a great way to get away, relax and reconnect. We take care of the details, allowing you to simply enjoy your time together while creating memories to last a lifetime. At Joy of Italy Tours we are experts at showcasing the best of Italy to help make your milestone birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, family / class reunion trip even more extraordinary. 

10 Days of Luxurious Northern Italy Travel

TESTIMONIALS

Months planning on your own or take the advice of someone who has never visited these areas of Italy.  Driving around for hours only to end up eating at a bad restaurant with a crappy wine list. Receiving a cookie cutter tasting from a winery where you are just a number. Unable to really enjoy yourself because one of you must be the designated driver.  The frustration of not speaking the language. (In these regions, English is rarely spoken outside the few touristy spots).  Getting the typical American-traveling-to-Italy experience.

But why deal with...

Sure you can visit northern italy on your own, life is too short to eat bad food, drink bad wine, or to waste a day frustrated in italy.

Let us pour you a glass and handle all the details! 

Our goal is to provide you with a stress-free travel experience allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in the culture while personally connecting you with the people, food, and wines of Italy.  We have spent decades traveling through these regions testing and retesting every restaurant, menu, and accommodation to bring you the very best Northern Italy tour.  Every restaurant selection has been made based on the quality of cuisine, service, location, and guest experience. Over multiple visits we have tasted nearly every item on the menu. In preparation for each tour we work with our chefs to create seasonal menus that give a picture of the region and the wines that we will be enjoying.  Plus, we are with you every step of the way to make sure you have an exceptional experience. 

Private Club, Wine Clubs, and Corporate Team Incentive Trips  

Every year we receive requests from private clubs and corporate organizations to plan tours exclusively for their members. To meet this demand we created our Club Tour. This Northern Italy Itinerary is based on our popular luxury food and wine tour with a few optional modifications to accommodate small to medium-sized groups. Contact us with your desired dates and we will work to book a tour based on your specific needs.

Private Club Tours

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TERMS & CONDITIONS

Got Questions? Let's jump on a call! Contact: Natalie 765-490-6972 or Email: [email protected]

Northern Italy

Feb 4, 2024

Northern Italy Tours with Your Own Italy

Discover the Splendor of Northern Italy 

Embark on a bespoke journey through Northern Italy with Your Own Italy, where every tour is a personalized adventure through some of the most stunning and culturally rich landscapes in the world. Our Northern Italy tours are crafted to immerse you in the distinct beauty and heritage of the region, from the alpine wonders of the Dolomites to the historic canals of Venice.

Explore the Diverse Regions of Northern Italy

– The Italian Lakes : Unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore, where elegant villas and lush gardens offer serene escapes and breathtaking views. – The Dolomites : Adventure awaits in the Dolomites, offering world-class hiking, skiing, and breathtaking panoramas of rugged peaks and verdant valleys. – Venice : Lose yourself in the romantic allure of Venice, with its winding canals, historic architecture, and vibrant squares. Experience the magic of a gondola ride and explore hidden gems beyond the main tourist paths. – Milan : Dive into the cosmopolitan spirit of Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital. Marvel at the majestic Duomo, explore cutting-edge galleries, and shop in chic boutiques. – Turin : Discover Turin’s baroque elegance, innovative cuisine, and rich automotive history. Visit the iconic Mole Antonelliana, sample exquisite chocolates, and explore the city’s elegant cafes.

Tailored Experiences for a Personal Touch

Your Own Italy specializes in creating tours that reflect your personal interests and travel style. Whether you’re captivated by art and architecture, enchanted by nature, or eager to explore culinary traditions, we design your Northern Italy tour to ensure an experience that’s uniquely yours.

– Culinary Journeys : From wine tastings in Piedmont to sampling risotto in Milan, Northern Italy’s culinary landscape is as varied as it is delicious. Enjoy personalized cooking classes, market visits, and meals at renowned restaurants. – Cultural and Historical Deep Dives : With private, expert-led tours of museums, galleries, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, gain deep insights into the region’s rich artistic and historical heritage. – Outdoor Adventures : Whether sailing on the Italian Lakes, hiking in the Dolomites, or cycling through the vineyards of Veneto, tailor your tour to include the outdoor activities that excite you most.

Extend Your Adventure with Bespoke Add-Ons

With Your Own Italy, the journey doesn’t end there. Consider incorporating these experiences into your Northern Italy tour:

– Prosecco Road Wine Tasting : Explore the rolling hills of the Prosecco wine region, visiting vineyards and tasting the area’s celebrated sparkling wine. – Cinque Terre Day Trip : Marvel at the colorful cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre, where terraced vineyards and azure seas create a picturesque setting for hiking and relaxation.

Your Own Italy: Crafting Unforgettable Journeys in Northern Italy

Choosing Your Own Italy for your Northern Italy tour means opting for an experience where authenticity, luxury, and personalization converge. Our dedication to crafting bespoke travel experiences ensures that your journey through Northern Italy is as enchanting and memorable as the region itself.

Begin Planning Your Northern Italy Exploration

Are you ready to uncover the wonders of Northern Italy tailored to your preferences? Contact Your Own Italy today to start planning your custom tour. Let us guide you through the spectacular landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and culinary delights of Northern Italy, creating a journey that resonates with your spirit of discovery and passion for travel.

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Bellissima Northern Italy

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• Small Group

Year, Departure Type

Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

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• 2024 Small Group
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• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK'S YELLOW ROADS – Picture-postcard settings await at every turn, dip and bend in the Italian Lakes region – tranquility perfected

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – A private recital at the Museo della Musica, housed in a church that dates back to the 10th century, located in the heart of Venice

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Private Lake Como and Lake Maggiore cruises featuring spectacular scenery & elegant villas

A cooking class in Bologna; learn the secrets from a chef

Tours & tastings in Modena; experience the art behind balsamic vinegar at the source and learn how Parmesan cheese is made

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

"Romancing the senses" is an apt description for the experiences showcased on Bellissima Northern Italy... for the landscapes you'll see and the lifestyles you'll sample take you on a love affair with Italy.

Cooking demonstration in bologna, learn culinary secrets from a master chef at a cooking demonstration in bologna.

From the famous meat-based Bolognese sauce (known locally as "ragù," and only served here atop the traditional pasta known as tagliatelle) to the original Bologna sausage (known the world over, often as "baloney") and much more in between, the ancient northern Italian city of Bologna has been renowned for its culinary traditions for centuries; gastronomic opportunities abound in this gourmet capital! Discover why the city's nickname is La Grassa ("the Fat One") firsthand when an early evening cooking demonstration by a master chef reveals some local culinary secrets...

The Gritti Palace, Venice

Nights 9, 10

Where history and culture are met with renewed Venetian style

A place of exceptional art and elegance, the majestic, recently restored Gritti Palace retains its reassuringly intimate and familiar feel. A former Doge's residence now known for its luxurious comfort, impassioned service, delectable culinary experiences and as an intimate haven for wellness, the Gritti is a reference point for the world's elite. After a meticulous restoration, the hotel's original wooden ceilings and entrance flooring, 18th-century wall lamps (hand-made in Murano) and more have been given new life... as the Gritti Signature Suite Collection showcases the hotel's rich historical past.

Taste Your Way Through Modena

Parmigiano factory visit and the art of balsamic.

What better way to discover Italy than a visit (and tasting) of some of Italy's most notable edible offerings. Learn about the first-hand process of cheesemaking; from the milk delivery to the finished wheels during a visit to Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory in Modena, following the process from start to finish and enjoying a tasting along the way. Later, a guided visit reveals the art of balsamic making — an elaborate process of rendering grapes and decanting must into wooden barrels. Your visit here is memorable, as is the sampling of this aromatic staple of gourmet cooking aged from 18 to 25+ years!

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

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Grand hotel et de milan.

Milan, Italy

Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees

Lake Maggiore, Italy

Due Torri Hotel

Verona, Italy

Grand Hotel Majestic - già Baglioni

Bologna, Italy

Nights 9-10

The Gritti Palace

Venice, Italy

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Italy; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

Venice Visitor Fee – Exemption Request Instructions:

• Go to the Exemption Request page on the City of Venice's website:  https://cda.comune.venezia.it/en/richiestaEsenzione  
• Under "Reason for requesting exemption" select "I am a guest of an accommodation facility located in the municipality of Venice."
• Select "Request exemption."
• Enter the dates you'll be entering and leaving Venice. (These dates can be found in the personal travel documents you received via email from Tauck.) Hit "Next."
• Enter your personal details. (For "Date of birth," click on the blank field. A calendar page showing the current month and year will appear. Click repeatedly in this header area to navigate to the century of your birth, then select the appropriate decade, year, month and day.) You will also enter your place of birth, email and home residence.  For "Residence," enter your home address in the USA
• Under "Accommodation and address name," search for or manually enter the name and address of your hotel in Venice. Please note: The name and address of your Venice hotel can be found in the personal travel documents you received via email from Tauck. Read the Privacy Policy by clicking the link (this will activate the check box), then check the box and select "Next."
• If you are traveling with friends or family, select "Add Holder" and fill out their details. Complete this step for everyone in your travel party, then select "Next."
• On the Contact Information page: If you select PHONE you will need to enter your phone number and then make a toll-free call to the number listed on the subsequent page, within the indicated time. If you select EMAIL you will need to enter your email address, and you will then receive an OTP code via that email address to enter on the subsequent page of the application. 
• Verify that all the information you've entered is correct, then click "Confirm."
• You will then be brought to a page where you can download the required QR code for your visit to Venice. (We recommend emailing the QR code to yourself, to ensure easy access to it later.) Please note that you will need to keep your QR code with you throughout your time in Venice, as failure to do so may result in a fine.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Italy. For complete vaccination and inoculation information please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

This journey is paced to accommodate all our guests, but is, nonetheless, an active and extensive tour. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion. Italy is home to innumerable historic buildings and sites, some dating from antiquity. Therefore, roads, walkways and architecture will present difficulties for some guests with physical limitations. You will encounter cobblestone streets, narrow passageways, and some steep and winding staircases. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate of northern Italy ranges from Alpine near Switzerland to continental along the Po River to Venice. The northern Alpine region experiences harsh winters with plenty of rain and snow and very mild summers. However, the weather conditions vary greatly according to the altitude. The northern Italian plain or Po River region experiences continental weather conditions with fairly cold, snowy winters but warm, mild summers. Northern cities such as Torino, Milan and Venice can become very cold, damp and foggy with temperatures falling to 32-45 °F (0-7 °C) in winter. Most of the rainfall occurs in the spring and summer months.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

When packing for your trip to Italy, it is important to keep in mind the time of year you are traveling and the current weather conditions for that time. The climate of northern Italy ranges from Alpine near Switzerland to continental along the Po River to Venice. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but certainly be comfortable.

Most Catholic churches in Italy require that your knees and shoulders be covered when you enter, even during the hot days of summer.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. By law in Italy, irons and ironing boards are not made available to guests at hotels. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to northern Italy:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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northern ITALY

LUCAfromITALY is a specialist tour operator providing unforgettable Italian Experiences!

Join us for our Tours to Northern ITALY:

Lake Como region, Swiss Alps and Milan!

Bernina Scenic Train ride on the Swiss Alps

The stunning Swiss Alps from the Bernina Train

Lake Como Beautiful Landscapes

The beauty of Lake Como and the nearby off-the-beaten-path area

Highlights walking tour of Milan

The wonderful city of Milan

Wine Tour with the Alps in the background

Tasting of local wines in different wineries

Snow in the Alps

The snow of the Italian Alps

Buongiorno!

We can’t wait to show you around!

LUCAfromITALY is made up of a team of friendly, professional guides and drivers. On our tours we show visitors around the places where we grew up, telling stories of the areas and cultures with which we are familiar and sharing our knowledge of those special spots. We aim also to introduce you, when possible, to some “real” local life. Company founder Luca Martinelli was born and raised in the region of Lake Como. His passion and curiosity for travel and culture brought him to study and work in the tourism field in the United States as well. Luca himself is a licensed driver and guide and has been hosting excursions in his region since 2014. Tours are limited to small groups (maximum about sixteen), and we do our best to provide unhurried, off-the-beaten-path, authentic excursions. Our slogan is “not a guide but your friend!” Benvenuti in Italia!

Northern Italy Tour: Milan & the Italian Lakes

Lake Maggiore – Milan – Lake Garda

Northern Italy Tour: Milan & the Italian Lakes

Welcome to italy.

This Northern Italy Tour is an excellent introduction to the elegance Italy has to offer. Lush landscapes to city shopping, this tour has it all. 

Consult with your Travel Specialist . We will ensure that the highlights of your trip are booked in advance so you won’t miss out on the fun! Plenty of leisure will be built in so you can take the time to explore on your own, and at your own pace. Let the journey guide you.

*Please keep in mind – This is a SAMPLE itinerary and is meant for inspiration only!

Make it Yours

• Accommodation – Italy offers a wide range of accommodation styles including boutique hotels, charming B&B’s, and luxurious castle hotels. Juniper Tours will select where you stay based on your preferences.
• Transportation – All of the dots will be connected based on your preferences and budget.  Airport transfers, car rentals, train passes, even private chauffeurs!
• Day tours and entrance tickets – pre-scheduled tours and experiences for a seamless and enriching travel experience!

Northern Italy Tour: Milan & the Italian Lakes Day-by-day Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in lake maggiore.

Welcome to Northern Italy, the Italian lake district! This trip not only includes impeccable scenery but day trips to charming cities closeby. As you arrive in Italy, a private driver will pick you up and take you to your first accommodation in Lake Maggiore. Here you will have the remainder of the day to explore at your leisure.

Overnight in Lake Maggiore

Day 2: Lake Maggiore

Stresa is an enchanting town with a splendid location on one of Italy’s largest lakes, Lake Maggiore. It touches one Swiss Canton and 2 Italian regions. We recommend spending the day exploring Stresa and then taking a ferry to Isola Bella, one of the three Borromean Islands.

Day 3: Lake Maggiore to Milan

Enjoy your morning taking a tranquil stroll along the elegant lakeside filled with luxury villas and opulent Art Nouveau hotels. A private driver will pick you up and take you to your accommodation in your next spot, Milan. Check-in or leave your bags at the hotel to begin exploring the global capital of fashion and design!

Overnight in Milan

Day 4: milan, day 5: milan to lake garda.

Get an early start for a day trip to Venice or Bologna. A private driver will pick you up and take you to one of your desired destinations. Spend the day exploring and sightseeing before heading to Lake Garda for the evening.

Overnight in Lake Garda

Day 6: lake garda.

Today, you will have the entire day to explore the towns and monuments around Lake Garda. Spend your time exploring Sirmione with its historic Rocca Scaligiera castle or Riva del Garda and the Varone waterfalls closeby. From hilly wine regions to 14th-century castles, you can wander wherever the mood takes you.

Day 7: Depart for Home

As you draw in the last impressions of Lake Garda’s splendor, a private driver will pick you up and take you to the airport Departure Hall where you can catch your return flight home. 

Get Ready to Travel!

Your northern italy tour: milan & the italian lakes at a glance:, northern italy tour: milan & the italian lakes highlights:.

• 6 nights accommodation, 4-star or higher
• Breakfast daily, except on arrival day
• Arrival and Departure airport transfers
• All transportation between cities and towns
• Optional travel protection
• Select activities based on your interests. 

Selected activities based on your interests

• Day trip to Venice, Bologna
• Lake Cruise
• City Walking Tour
• Wine-tasting Tour

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Northern Italy Including Cinque Terre

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8 Day Northern Italy Tour of Milan, Cinque Terre and the Italian Lakes

8 days, 1 country and 8 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 2 Dinners

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The Italian Riviera meets Italy’s beautiful Lake District on a gourmet-filled encounter with the north and its many treasures. All you need to do is live the high life on this most epic of Northern Italy trips, filled with the flavors of prosciutto and parmigiano.

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8 days itinerary trip from Milan to Milan visiting 1 country and 8 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Milan, Parma, Cinque Terre and Genoa with a Local Specialist

Visit a prosciutto factory near Langhirano, cheese factory in Montechiarugolo and Cinque Terre

View the Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan and the Renaissance Palaces in Genoa

Scenic Cruise to Cinque Terre

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Travel Home > Italy > Itineraries > 10 Day Northern Italy

10 Day Guided Tour of Northern Italy

• Officially Licensed Guides

Luxury Vehicles

Flexible rescheduling, ten days in northern italy itinerary.

Starting in Venice, on this itinerary, we will explore some of the finest delights of Northern Italy from the Veneto region to Lombardy, Piemonte, and Liguria.

You may wish to alter a particular aspect of the tour below or ask us to provide a completely new custom itinerary for your vacation, including accommodation and the services of a driver-guide.  We will happily provide a complimentary custom itinerary for you, all you need to do is send us an online inquiry.

Trip Highlights

• Venice Day Tour & Gondola Ride
• Murano & Burano Tour
• St Mark's Cathedral & Doge's Palace
• Venetian Mask-Making Workshop
• Verona Guided Tours
• Lake Garda & Como Tours
• Milan Private Tours

What's Included?

• Luxury Transport
• Private Drivers
• 24 Hour Online Support
• Fully Customizable Tour Itinerary
• Free Cancellation & Rescheduling

Day 1: Venice Day Tour & Traditional Gondola Ride

Starting in one of the most romantic cities in the world,  Venice is a truly magical city . 

Today we will start off by exploring the city on foot – from the  Cannaregio district to Santa Croce & San Marco . After we’ve gotten our bearings, we will  enjoy a traditional gondola ride  through the canals. 

In the afternoon we will explore the  Jewish Ghetto  area and tour the Museum & synagogue.

Stemming from the 16th century when the Jewish population in Venice was forcefully segregated into the district, touring the area with your private guide today allows you a fascinating insight into the history, architecture, and culture of the place. This is a fascinating trip into an ‘alternative’ Venice and you will really enjoy discovering the unique stories, traditions, and of course the authentic delicious Jewish cuisine available in the neighborhood.

After this tour, we will then  be picked up by our luxury water boat and go for a leisurely 1-hour boat ride  through some of the lesser-known canals. Aside from the major canal arteries, your expert local guide will delve into the most enchanting minor canals of the city to discover hidden gems like the  Doges’ Pantheon ,  St. Mark’s School , and  Madonna dell’Orto church .

We will then stop at a local Venetian bar for a traditional aperitivo with the local specialty snacks ‘Cicchetti’.

Accommodation: Venice

Day 2: Murano & Burano Private Tour – Cassanova Tour of Venice

From Venice, we will take a short  private water taxi to the exquisite islands of Murano and Burano  – known as the islands of glass and lace thanks to their history as the center of the respective art forms.

Artisan culture is the name of the game on both of these islands and you will have  the opportunity to view master craftsmen at work and get ‘hands on’ with a glass-making workshop class  and sit with a needlepoint lace master while they hand make the lace in the traditional style.

Then, in the afternoon, we’ll travel back to Venice to learn about one of Venice’s favorite sons: the ‘man about town’ Casanova.

Journey back in time as you stroll by Casanova’s birthplace and the theatre  where his parents worked. See the Campo where he played as a child, the house where he spent his early years, the church where he was baptized (and where he was priest…for only two sermons)! 

See the homes of his noble protectors, the scene of his first “love enterprises”, and the setting of his teenage prank. Then, learn the reasons behind his dangerous fascination for magic, and how this led to his imprisonment in the “Piombi”. 

Be thrilled by the tale of his jailbreak, as you gaze at the corner of the Doge’s Palace whence he escaped. 

Day 3 Morning: St Mark’s Cathedral & Doge’s Palace Tour

Perhaps the most iconic building in Venice,  the 11th century St Mark’s Cathedral is instantly recognizable . On your private tour, your guide will discuss the  stunning Renaissance architecture  and the  innumerable treasures , sculptures, and  priceless artworks displayed inside the Cathedral , including the ‘Triumphal Quadriga’ – the famous bronze horses of Saint Mark.

Next to St Mark’s you’ll find the  Doge’s Palace  – formerly the seat of power in Venice. You’ll uncover tales of scandal and political intrigue that took place within the Palace’s walls.

Stepping inside you will be greeted by artworks from world-renowned masters such as Titian, Veronese, and Tiepolo, and at the end of the tour, you will emerge at the famous ‘Bridge of Sighs’.

Day 3 Evening: Venetian Mask Making Workshop

Venice isn’t just famous for its beautiful canals, it’s also famous for the annual Carnevale!

With a long history dating back to the 12th century, the pre-lent celebrations have become synonymous with beautifully designed masks and elaborate costumes. 

This afternoon you will be  taken to the boutique of a local atelier for a private mask-making workshop with Venetian master , Igor. You will use authentic materials and be able to take your beautiful creation home with you.

You will also have the opportunity to  visit Igor’s wife’s studio . Giulia is the brains behind some of the most beautiful Venetian costumes created for Venice’s annual Carnevale and will  take you ‘backstage’ to see her creations and explain how she makes these magnificent creations .

Day 4: Veneto Countryside & Venetian Villa

Time to say goodbye to Venice and head back to the mainland. This morning we are going to visit one of the finest examples of a “Villa Veneta” a Venetian Villa;  Villa Pisani at Stra .

Originally  built for Doge Alvise Pisani in the 18th century , this beautiful 114 villa houses frescoes by Tiepolo and other important artists of the day but one of its most striking features is its amazing gardens including the Labyrinth of Pisani!  

After our visit to the villa, you will head to the  picturesque City of Padua . Dating back to 1200 BC, this city is now a medieval jewel famous for its patron saint, Saint Anthony. 

In the afternoon you will explore the city and  visit the beautiful Duomo  as well the Scrovegni Chapel frescoes by the early Renaissance master Giotto.

Accommodation: Verona

Day 5: Verona Day Tour

“Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” The words of Shakespeare which made Verona famous to English-speaking audiences. 

The historic city of  Verona  was founded in the 1st century B.C. It particularly flourished under the rule of the Scaliger family in the 13th and 14th centuries and as part of the Republic of Venice from the 15th to 18th centuries. It is a beautiful combination of ancient, medieval & modern. 

This morning you will  visit Juliet’s famous balcony   and explore inside Juliet’s house with your private guide . You will also have the opportunity to stand on the balcony itself!

In the afternoon, you’ll visit  a beautiful Roman amphitheater . When we think of Roman amphitheater we immediately think of the Colosseum however  Verona’s amphitheater is not only older, it is also more intact .  

The location for many spring & summer concerts, you will have the opportunity to explore its vast networks of tunnels and staircases. Feel like an ancient Roman for a day!

Finally, we’ll finish the day by  experiencing a true Italian aperitivo  with some of Verona’s finest wines like the Valpolicella, Amarone & Soave.

Day 6: Lago di Garda & Lago di Como

And we’re off to view Italy’s largest lake,  Largo di Garda   and visit one of its most picturesque towns , Sirmione. 

Originally a Roman settlement with a history that spans the middle ages, the Republic of Venice & the Habsburg rule, today offers  a snapshot of Italy at its best . Famous for the Scagliero Castle & the ancient Roman Grottoes of Catullus, you will love exploring its distinctive streets & fabulous views of over the lake.

Lunchtime: You will stop at another one of Lake Garda’s jewels, Desenzano del Garda for a magical lunch overlooking the lake in one of the area’s finest Michelin starred restaurants. 

Often ignored by visitors to Italy,  Bergamo has a rich variety of architecture, history, and shopping culture  that mean it would be a mistake not to spend at least an evening here.

The upper town known as  Citta Alta  is encircled by huge defensive Venetian walls that date back to the 16th century and are  listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site . Also of note, the  Piazza Vecchia  in the heart of the city has been described as “ the most beautiful square in Italy ”.

Your guide will take you to the 12th-century bell tower that still rings out one hundred times each night at 10 pm to mark an ancient curfew.

Accommodation: Tremezzo, Lago di Como

Day 7: Lake Como Private Boat Trip

Today you are going to  experience Lake Como as it is supposed to be seen,   from the water on a luxury private boat . 

You will pass by many of the lake’s famous villages and houses (yes, you will also pass by George Clooney’s villa and stop to explore one of the region’s most famous towns:  Bellaggio . 

Accommodation: Lake Como

Day 8: Lake Como Villas – Milan

You will visit two of the region’s most famous villas,  Villa Carlotta  and  Villa dei Balbianello .

Villa Carlotta is not only a villa but also  a flourishing botanical garden  where the flora creates a mesmerizing array of colors in the gentle sunkissed ocean breeze. Furthermore, the villa is also an  operating museum with works by famed sculptors  such as Antonio Canova, Bertel Thorvaldsen, and Giovanni Migliara.

Villa dei Balbianello is  famous for its elaborate terraced gardens , and absolutely gorgeous setting atop the Lavedo headland with  simply jaw-dropping views of Isola Comacina  and overlooking Lake Como.

Indeed so captivating is the beauty of the villa and its surroundings that it has featured in several Hollywood blockbusters, including two of the biggest franchises of all time James Bond Casino Royale, and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.

In the afternoon it’s time to head to  one of the world’s most fashionable cities, Milan .

Accommodation: Milan

Day 9: Milan Duomo Guided Tour – Teatro della Scala & Castello Sforzesco

We start our visit by exploring  Milan’s crown jewel: the Duomo  (and the Duomo terraces based on opening). You will skip the lines with your licensed guide and view the Gothic spectacle that is the Duomo.

You will view the special archaeological area of  Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonte  before heading to the very top of Duomo: its rooftop, to experience one of the best views of the city. 

Following this, you will visit the  famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele  before stopping at  an exclusive restaurant for lunch .

Teatro della Scala and Castello Sforzesco

In the afternoon you will visit two of Milan’s most famous locations: The  Teatro della Scala Opera House  and the  Castello Sforzesco .

We will arrange  a completely private tour experience of one of the most famous opera houses in the world allowing you the time and space to fully appreciate the magic of the theatre .

You will also visit the imposing 15th Century Castello Sforzesco. The fortress has a colorful history over the centuries and its defenses were designed by Da Vinci before it was partly destroyed by Napolean!

These days  the castle is famed for housing incredible collections of artwork  including a room decorated by Da Vinci himself, and pieces such as Andrea Mantegna’s Trivulzio Madonna and masterpieces by Canaletto, Tiepolo, Vincenzo Foppa, Titian, and Tintoretto.

Day 10: Last Supper and Brera Design District Tour

The  Church of Holy Mary of Grace  or the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a 15th Century Dominican Convent and  UNESCO World Heritage Site , however, the world will be more familiar with the artwork contained in the refectory walls rather than the church itself – despite its impressive Gothic arch and Titian altarpiece.

That is simply because the  Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie houses perhaps the most recognizable painting in history,   The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci . There’s not much we can say about the masterpiece that hasn’t been said before given that it has been written about, discussed, and held up as one of the highest achievements in art since it was completed in 1490 other than it would truly be a pity to visit Italy and not gaze upon this masterpiece.

In the afternoon it’s time to  visit one of Milan’s most fashionable districts, Brera : known as the design district. 

Brera Artist’s District includes; Fine Arts Academy and its classrooms, the fragrance of oil colors in an ancient stationery shop, a glass of red wine in the bar where once poor artists bartered paintings for a plate of pasta, a  glance at the courtyard where lived  Piero Manzoni famous for his Achrome kept at the Moma.

Evening: Aperitivo along the Navigli district. Designed by Da Vinci, today houses some of Milan’s most fashionable bars & restaurants. 

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We love sharing our passion for Italy with our guests and can’t wait to customize any of our Italian day tours for you to ensure you enjoy an absolutely perfect vacation in Italy. Contact us using the form below and we can get started designing your complimentary itinerary today.

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Northern Italy’s Enchanting Escapes: 12 Unmissable Vacation Destinations

Northern Italy is known for its mountain ranges, beautiful coastlines, rich cuisine, deep history, and gorgeous architecture. Northern Italy cities are simply breathtaking.

Each major region of Italy (northern, central , and southern ) is quite unique. Northern Italy is made up of 8 different sub-regions, which include Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Liguria, Aosta Vally, Veneto, Fruili-Venezia, and Trentina-Alto.

From hiking the Italian Alps and Lake Como boat tours to handmade pasta and vineyards, the northern region of Italy is a diverse vacation destination you shouldn’t miss! Check out our favorite places to visit in Northern Italy– with things to do!

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Cinque Terre, Liguria

Recommended by Pafoua of Her Wanderful World

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” is a charming, must-see UNESCO destination located in Liguria’s capital city, La Spezia, off the Mediterranean coast in Northern Italy. Listed north to south, these beautiful coastal towns are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Each town has its own unique beauty to explore, but all of them offer scenic views of colorful houses that line the hills. The ambiance, culture, and people in the Cinque Terre make a stop here unforgettable even though there aren’t traditional tourist sites such as churches or museums to visit.

Monterosso is the largest of the five and is known for its long stretch of sandy beach. Vernazza is the most beautiful of all the towns, with a smaller beach to swim in and a piazza to view the harbor below.

Sitting as the highest of all five villages, visitors will need to climb over 300 steps to reach the town center of Corniglia. Visit Gelateria Corniglia to find the best gelato. A popular activity in Manarola is sunbathing on the rocks or swimming in the sea since it doesn’t have a beach.

Riomaggiore is known for being the first town introduced to tourism, and nightlife is more lively. There is also delicious fried seafood found here.

A well-maintained train system connects the towns so visitors can easily travel between towns by hopping on and off. To take the scenic route, you can hike the trails and receive even more picturesque views, although keep in mind that some of the trails may be challenging.

Vehicles are discouraged in the Cinque Terre, so the easiest way to arrive is by train. Visitors can also arrive by boat, but schedules can change depending on the weather. The busiest times in the Cinque Terre are June and July, which also offer the sunniest, longest days.

To miss the crowds, visit during September or October to get cooler weather and still enjoy this beautiful area. Whenever you decide to visit the Cinque Terre and Northern Italy, you will not be disappointed!

Genoa, Liguria

Recommended by Sarah of A Social Nomad

Genoa, located in Northern Italy, is really easy to travel to – some buses and trains make it easy to reach this city on the Mediterranean, which is also a major cruise port, which means that a lot of visitors spend one day in Genoa . Genoa has one of the largest harbors in the Mediterranean, which means it sees a lot of yachting traffic too.

Genoa’s most famous son is Christopher Columbus, who spent much of his childhood here, and it is still possible to visit his home in the city. The maze of tiny, narrow streets makes the historic center of Genoa a delight to wander around in, safe from traffic, and the series of UNESCO World Heritage-listed palaces will delight all who visit.

Foodies, too, will love Genoa. The region is the birthplace of pesto and focaccia bread, and it’s also a city where street food is awesome – a paper cone of freshly fried seafood is absolutely not to be missed. To learn more, consider a Genoa food tour .

There are walking tours and open-topped Hop on Hop off bus tours to explore, but this is also a city where it’s easy to wander and discover hidden areas. Endless pavement cafes, bars, and restaurants suit all budgets and rest from the day’s heat. Genoa also caters well with accommodation options from five-star hotels to hostels and apartment rentals – all types and budgets of travelers are catered for.

Portofino, Liguria

Recommended by Alex and Leah on Tour

Portofino is an absolutely beautiful village on the Italian Riviera coastline in northern Italy. It’s extremely popular with celebrities worldwide, and once you visit, you’ll know why!

The best way to get to Portofino is by taking the train from Genoa to Saint Magherita before hopping on a direct bus to the village. The bus trip is an experience; snaking along the cliffside, you’ll see magnificent views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. 

Despite being a small fishing village, there is much more to do than meets the eye. Firstly, if you have the budget or just fancy a nose, you definitely need to pop into all the designer shops that line the cobbled street.

We’d then recommend going for a wander around the harbor before settling down for an alcoholic beverage, coffee, or even some food. Whilst (obviously) expensive, the food is fantastic, and you MUST have an Aperol Spritz!

If you’re more of an adventurer, you definitely need to hike up to Castelletto or Faro di Portofino, as the views are unbelievable.

Don’t worry if that doesn’t appeal to you; you can always sit on the edge of the Marina di Portofino pier, look back at Portofino’s beautiful, multi-colored buildings, and watch the world go by.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto

Recommended by Morgan of Crave the Planet

You don’t have to be a mountaineer and eat dried food to experience out-of-this-world hiking with breathtaking views– even with your kids or mobility-impaired friends and family. Everyone should travel to Italy to experience the magnificent cities, but it’s a hustle and touristic bustle that can leave you or your family well-fed but drained. Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled high in the Dolomites in northern Italy, is a must-see for people who love nature with a dose of good food and wine.

Fortunately, it’s only a 2-hour drive or bus ride from the international airport in Venice to the stunning mountain village of Cortina d’Ampezzo, filled with history, great food, and luxury spas. The incredible thing about Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Italian Dolomites is the chance to walk easily at high elevations with minimal effort and no special training.

Gondolas and chair lifts run in summer for those not inclined to hike to the top so that everyone can experience some of the most spectacular views in the world, like the Cinque Torri Rock formation.

Directly on these trails sit mountain huts called “rifugios,” like Rifugio Lagazuoi. These huts serve delicious cuisine, great local wines, and views that make you think you’re on top of the world.

Best things to do: Rent bikes, people watch in the village center, do an exciting Via Ferrata, do a day hike around Lago di Braies, or do a hut-to-hut hike and feel like a mountaineer without having to rough it by staying in gorgeous huts each night.

Cortina merges Italian and outdoor culture like no other place. It’s a great winter and summer destination for skiing, hiking, or doing a spa on the top of a mountain. Stay at Cristallo’s luxury spa overlooking Cortina d’Ampezzo, which has no details left out. It’s pure luxury.

Venice, Veneto

Recommended by Angela of Where Angie Wanders

Venice is a must-visit destination in northern Italy; once you have experienced its history and beauty, you will want to return time and time again. Italy’s floating city is the only place in the world fully pedestrianized, and the only traffic jams you will find here are caused by boats.

Getting around Venice by water can seem complicated on a first visit; however, with waterbuses, water taxis, and gondolas, you can be sure to get around the city easily and quickly. Arriving in the city center from the airport by water taxi is a fantastic experience reminiscent of a James Bond movie! Looking for somewhere to stay? Click here for places to stay while in Venice .

St. Mark’s Square is the main tourist area in Venice, and visitors arrive to admire the centuries-old Venetian/Roman architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica. In the square, you will also find the Bell Tower and Doges Palace. This area is always busy, but walk away from it, and within 10 minutes, you will find yourself in quiet backstreets where you can wander freely without the crowds.

Finding good Italian cuisine should definitely be on your Venice itinerary . Don’t buy food and drink in St. Mark’s Square – the prices are extortionate – instead, find one of the numerous cafes that sell cicchetti. This is the traditional food of Venice – similar to tapas – and can be accompanied by local wine. It is a cheap and tasty way of eating in Venice, with dishes usually costing no more than €2 each. Here’s a

If you have time, make a day trip from Venice to Burano, the Italian island famous for its incredible rainbow-colored houses, freshly caught fish, and lace-making.

Alba, Piedmont

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

Alba in the Piemonte region should be on your must-visit list when traveling to northern Italy. Just an hour and a half south of Turin, you will find some of the best wines of Italy and, of course, their world-famous white truffles. This picturesque village is easily walkable in an hour or two. This is definitely a foodie town with quaint squares, a pink church, and many restaurants.

The traditional dishes in Alba are not usually marinara sauce based. Think mushrooms, truffles, olive oil, and cream. You should not leave Alba without ordering a mouthwatering truffle dish unless you are allergic.

If truffles make you swoon, visiting the International White Truffle Fair from mid-October to mid-November is like a trip to heaven. Special dinners and tastings of these culinary diamonds abound.

But even if you cannot make it to the festival, truffles will be on offer at any time of year. Make sure to purchase some truffle oil and truffle paste to take home. They make great souvenirs and gifts and will last longer than any you buy at home.

Also, try one of the most famous dishes of Alba and the Piemonte region, Brasato al Barolo—tender beef marinated in Barolo wine with vegetables and herbs. If you think the wine can’t be good if they’re cooking with it, think again!

Alba is a great hub for visiting local wineries and enotecas (wine bars or shops). Barolo is not just a wine varietal; it’s a village and a short drive from Alba. You can easily visit Barolo and Barbaresco, where Nebbiolo grapes are grown in one day. Enjoy a beautiful ride through rolling hills and vineyards. Enjoy sipping the local wine, then stroll through the charming villages.

Val di Susa, Piedmont

Recommended by Linda of Insieme-Piemonte.com

Being the symbol of the Piedmont region, you will have to visit the impressive Sacra di San Michele when traveling in northern Italy. It is also known as Saint Michael’s Abbey. Sound familiar? That is because author Umberto Eco was inspired by the powerful abbey for his bestselling book “The Name of the Rose.” 

Located only 40km from Piedmont’s capital, Turin, the massive Sacra di San Michele is high above Susa Valley. At 962 meters above sea level, it is not only rich in history but also offers fantastic views of the Italian, Swiss, and French Alps—and even Turin. 

Built between 983 and 987, the ancient abbey had its best years in the 13 th century. During that time, there were about 1000 monks living in it permanently, plus pilgrims from the north traveling to Rome. 

Via the QR code on the self-guided tour, you will get all the essential and interesting information on the abbey’s history directly to your cell phone. This will allow you to discover the gigantic building at your own pace. 

You will pass the “stairways of the dead” to reach the main church from the 12 th century. Several members of the Savoy, one of the oldest royal families in the world, are buried in it.  

The Sacra di San Michele area offers some fantastic hiking trails and a via Ferrata for climbers. You will have outstanding views of the abbey, the valley, and the Alps.  

Turin, Piedmont

Recommended by Teresa

The first capital of the Kingdom of Italy was built between 1861 and 1865. Today, Turin is a fantastic city. Turin, located in Northern Italy, is a combination of various European styles and modernity that must be added to your bucket list. In the past, Turin was famous as the house of the Italian monarchy; today, it is famous for industries such as FIAT and many others.

The Chapel of the Holy Shroud is a really important cathedral famous for housing the Holy Shroud. The Pope decides when to expose the Holy Shroud, and the expositions usually last 45 days.

The most critical and principal square of Turin is San Carlo Square. The square is very nice and elegant, with two twin churches at the end, the Equestrian monument wanted by the leader of the Savoy dynasty in the middle and beautiful arcades with historical and chic cafes all around.

If you are looking for a breathtaking view and a splendid church, visit the Basilica of Superga.

The Egyptian Museum houses the most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities. It was founded in 1894 by King Carlo Felice di Savoia and has grown.

The symbol of Turin is the Mole Antoneliana. From the top, you can have a 360-degree view, and inside, there is a stunning and exciting museum of cinema.

The Reggia di Venaria, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautiful day trip not too far away from Turin. You can spend a whole day wandering through rooms and the palace’s beautiful gardens.

Like all of Italy, Turin is known for its delicious food. Find a traditional restaurant and try the Agnolotti or the Vitello Tonnato, all accompanied by wine.

Val Chisone, Piedmont

Recommended by Linda of HikingTheAlps.com

When traveling in northern Italy, you will see several fascinating medieval forts and castles, but none is as impressive as the Forte di Fenestrelle. 

Located in the middle of beautiful Val Chisone, 85km west of Piedmont’s capital, Turin, the powerful fort can be admired from afar. It is the largest Alpine fortress in Europe! 

The fortified complex, covering an area of about 1.3 million square meters, consists of three different forts. They are joined by a tunnel inside the massive fortress wall, which runs the longest covered staircase in Europe. You will have to climb 4000 steps, 3km from Fort San Carlo in the valley to Fort delle Valli at 1800 meters above sea level, and overcome a 635-meter height difference. 

The mighty fortification, which was built starting in 1728, took 122 years to complete. It was intended to defend against foreign invasions, but it was mainly used as a garrison and prison. 

Abandoned after the Second World War, that outstanding construction can be visited today. There are full-day guided tours (only in Italian) or a short self-guided option. To experience and appreciate the dimension of that stunning building, you should combine an inside tour with a fantastic hike to Usseaux , one of the most beautiful villages in Piedmont. 

Lake Como, Lombardy

Recommended by Krisztina of SheWandersAbroad.com

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Italy, don’t miss out on Lake Como! This beautiful destination is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. With its stunning scenery and lovely towns, Lake Como will surely please everyone.

It’s one of the biggest lakes in Italy, and since it’s located only a one-hour train ride away from Milan, it’s a great day trip opportunity. However, if you want to explore the area properly, it’s worth spending at least 2-3 days at Lake Como.

Bellagio is one of the most popular towns on Lake Como, and it’s easy to see why. With its beautiful buildings and stunning views, Bellagio is a must-see when you’re in the area, and it’s also one of the best places for first-timers to stay in Lake Como. Be sure to walk around the town center to admire the architecture, and don’t forget to take a boat ride on the lake for some truly breathtaking views.

If you’re looking for a more low-key town, Tremezzo might be the place for you. This town is known for its pretty gardens, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the scenery. There are also some great restaurants here if you want to try some local cuisines.

Milan, Lombardy

Recommended by Greta of Greta’s Travels

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Italy, add Milano. Milano is known as the City of Fashion; it’s the economic capital of Italy and the capital of the Lombardy region of Italy.

Milan is an iconic destination, both for its historical and cultural aspects and the modern pull of fashion and innovation. From the new trendy skyscrapers of Piazza Gae Aulenti to the cobbled streets of Brera, Milan has something to offer every type of traveler.

You could live in Milan and still not see it all. However, most travelers consider one day in Milan a good amount. In one day, you’ll be able to see all the highlights of the city, starting from Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, going on to Brera neighborhood, Castello Sforzesco, Arco della Pace, and then ending your day with a Milanese aperitivo at Navigli.

The best time to visit Milan is in late spring or early summer when the weather is good, the days are long, and you can easily get around the city on foot. You can still visit at other times of the year, but in summer, it gets very hot, and the weather in winter won’t make for a fun experience.

You can’t miss visiting the rooftop of the Duomo Cathedral . From here, you will get stunning views over the Piazza del Duomo and the rooftops of Milan. Head there at sunset for the most gorgeous golden light!

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Recommended by Lori of Italy Foodies

Bologna, in northern Italy, is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings and the magnificent UNESCO porticoes stretching across the city. But for all that, Bologna is also known as the “culinary capital of Italy” for producing some of the country’s most unique foods, including prosciutto, parmigiano reggiano cheese, and balsamic vinegar, all found locally on every menu.

The city is not as flashy as its neighbors, Florence and Venice, and therefore is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most under-visited cities. But there’s plenty to keep you occupied for a week or more.

A favorite activity is strolling the Piazza Maggiore in the heart of Bologna. Centuries-old medieval buildings, including the main cathedral, Basilica di San Petronio, surround the huge piazza. Here, you’ll find coffee shops and outdoor cafes serving pastries, sandwiches, and, of course, excellent regional wines.

If you’re a foodie, next door to the Piazza Maggiore is the oldest market in Bologna, the Quadrilatero, where you can walk the narrow cobblestone streets and shop for local Italian bread , meats, and cheeses or dine at some of the city’s best eateries.

Bologna once boasted 125 medieval towers, but only about 25 remain. One of the tallest is the Asinelli Tower, the only one you can climb—and you should! The panoramic views over Bologna are worth the climb.

Bologna is also home to fast-performance cars; a day trip to the “Motor Valley” should be on your list. The world headquarters of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati are fascinating places to visit for car buffs or anyone looking for a true Bolognese experience.

Visiting Northern Italy

When planning a trip to northern Italy, there are many different cities and attractions that you must not miss. Milan, of course, is at the top of the list, with its beautiful architecture and buzzing cultural scene. There are also many lovely small towns in this region to explore.

And just outside of Milan is Lake Como, one of the most breathtaking destinations in the region. With its deep blue waters and snow-capped mountains in the distance, it is truly a sight to behold. Whether looking for great food and wine or incredible natural beauty, northern Italy is truly amazing!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel - Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

sell 12 Day Wonders of Northern Italy 2024

12 Days / 10 Nights   Starting at $3995 PP (Land Rate)

On this Perillo tour, you'll experience firsthand the wonders of Northern Italy. This treasure packed tours takes you throughout the celebrated northern gems including Bologna, Rapallo, Stresa, Parma, Venice, Cinque Terre, La Spezia, Portofino, Lugano, Lake Como.

THURSDAY : Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on a journey of a lifetime!

FRIDAY : Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

Enjoy some free time this afternoon—take a walk on Via Veneto, have a gelato or maybe do some shopping. Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

SATURDAY : This morning, we travel ten-minutes to another country—Vatican City. With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, renowned for its Renaissance art, especially the ceiling which was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512.

Next, we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in the world. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

Tonight, we thought you’d enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your guide for a recommendation or venture out and explore. Be sure to try Spaghetti alla Carbonara made with eggs, guanciale (bacon from pig’s cheek), black pepper and pecorino cheese.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on any events planned by the Pope.)

SUNDAY : This morning, after breakfast, we will enjoy a Gelato tasting! It’s never too early for gelato!

After this, we travel to Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Italy. To Italians, Bologna is known as the city of “Two Towers”; worldwide it’s known as the city of lasagna, tagliatelle, tortellini and Bolognese sauce. Good food must boost brainpower because Bologna is home to the oldest university in Europe!

This afternoon is yours to enjoy on your own. Why not visit the market stalls selling beans, tomatoes, and cheeses. Have lunch at a trattoria serving fresh pasta with their signature ragu sauce. The city is a food lover’s paradise!

Tonight, we enjoy a fabulous dinner out with typical local specialties in a local restaurant.

MONDAY : This morning, we travel to Parma, a city in the region of Emilia Romagna famous for its prosciutto, parmigiano cheese, architecture, and gorgeous countryside.

On the way, we’ll stop to visit a cheese factory for a taste of genuine parmigiano cheese — our favorite!

In Parma, we’ll enjoy a visit to a prosciutto (ham) factory followed by a light lunch.

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own. Be sure to try one of Bologna’s signature dishes: tortellini which take their shape from Venus’ navel!

TUESDAY : The Grand Canal is just a short train ride away. You wouldn’t want to miss one of the most unique cities in the world… Andiamo a Venezia!

In Venice, everything and everyone floats. One floats luxuriously with such a sense of freedom, never tormented by traffic or even the sounds of honking horns.

Your guide will show you all the sights—St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Just around the corner from St. Mark’s Square, we’ll enjoy a special Venetian lunch in a city renowned for its seafood specialties.

This evening we return to Bologna for dinner on our own.

WEDNESDAY : Today, we are whisked along the northern Italian countryside, arriving along the famous coast of Liguria.

We will take a short boat ride to Portofino, a picturesque seaside village with brightly colored houses lining the shore. Portofino is also known as the resort of the rich and famous...a perfect place for our guests! Designer boutiques and dozens of cafés and restaurants line the main square, giving guests the chance to experience the real Italian “Dolce vita.” *Weather permitting

You’ll have some free time to visit the main square, the church of San Giorgio, which is said to have relics of St. George. You can also visit the Brown Castle, built in the fifteenth-century, and used for harbor defense over the centuries.

Next, we visit Camogli, another charming fishing village and resort. You’ll have free time to sightsee, have a gelato or just sit back and people watch.

We continue on to Rapallo, a pretty seaside resort town on the Italian Riviera. After a short visit of the city center, we check into our beautiful hotel and enjoy dinner with fine local wines.

THURSDAY : Excitement awaits! Today we visit Cinque Terre, the ruggedly beautiful stretch of coastline inset with five tiny villages perched along the Italian Riviera. These 5 picturesque fishing villages are often the “top places to visit” for most travel magazines.

First, we travel to Sestri Levante to board our train to tiny Vernazza, the jewel of the Cinque Terre. Here the way of life remains simple, unspoiled and without cars. Ah… Tranquility!

Later today, we return to our hotel in Rapallo to enjoy the evening on our own.

FRIDAY : Today is yours to enjoy as you please! Sightsee, shop, and have some gelato!

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for some suggestions – there are many choices in this beautiful town!

SATURDAY : Today we drive to Stresa on beautiful Lake Maggiore. For centuries, Stresa has been a popular retreat for Europe’s aristocrats who have endowed the town with a number of beautiful villas.

On the way to Stresa we’ll enjoy Lugano and and explore the Italian section of Switzerland. Its proximity to Italy makes the city a wonderful blend of Italian charm and Swiss sophistication. Stroll along the charming arcades, admire breathtaking lake views and, most importantly, shop for Swiss chocolate!

Next, we enjoy a boat ride around Lake Como, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. Many celebrities have homes on the shores of Lake Como—George Clooney, Gianni Versace, Sylvester Stallone and Madonna. Real estate offices will be open for your convenience!

After we’ll proceed to Stresa and checking into our beautiful hotel, enjoy one of your last dinners in Italy on your own. Time to really indulge!

SUNDAY : Today we visit Isola Bella, “beautiful island,” one of the Borromean islands of Lake Maggiore. With its wonderful gardens and impressive palace, this lovely island will remain in your memory forever.

Tonight, we have a final dinner in the hotel with our new travel friends. Don’t forget to exchange email addresses and make plans for the future. How about you all meet again on another Perillo Tour—to Hawaii or Greece!

MONDAY : Transfer to Milan Airport in time for your return flight to USA.

• Centrally Located 4 & 5 star Hotels
• More Motorcoach Legroom
• Airport Transfers  (at Scheduled Times)
• Full Breakfast Daily
• 2 Lunches & 4 Dinners
• Full Day Venice Excursion Including Lunch
• Gelato Tasting
• Wireless Headsets To Hear Your Tour Guide Clearly
• Travel Wallet, Baggage Tags and Travel Documents Included
• Baggage Handling Throughout (Except at Airports)
• Hotel Taxes, City Taxes , Hotel Service Charges and all Tips For Hotel and Restaurant Personnel
• Professional Tour Directors and Licensed Local Guides
• Complimentary Wi-Fi On Our Buses

Dates & Rates

Triple room deduct $300 per person from the Double rate. Kids under 12 sharing with 2 adults deduct $1000 from the Double Rate.

Hotel Rose Garden Palace ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Our favorite!  Rose Garden Palace Hotel is a distinctive spa hotel located in a restored historical townhome just off Via Veneto.  Rooms are grand and spacious like American hotels, with all the comforts of home. Experience fine dining at Il Roseto Restaurant and relax in the heated indoor pool and steam room. This is our preferred property in Rome, owned by our very own Steve Perillo. Come and experience our wonderful service and ambiance. 

Starhotels Excelsior

Strategically located opposite the Bologna Train Station and only 2 km from BolognaFiere Exhibition Centre, the Starhotels Excelsior blends classic style and contemporary taste.

Grand Hotel Bristol

The Grand Hotel Bristol enjoys a magnificent location on the lakeshore of Stresa, a true pearl of Lake Maggiore, famous all over the world for the extraordinary way the beautiful landscape merges with the sumptuous dwellings scattered throughout it. Hotel guests can enjoy a privileged view of Isola Bella and the Borromeo Gulf. The prestigious building that is now the Grand Hotel in Stresa was originally a noble residence, and careful renovation work has allowed it to retain its elegance while enhancing it with high profile services. The Zacchera family’s traditional dedication to hospitality at the highest level completes the features that make the Grand Hotel Bristol an ideal place for relaxing and discovering the beauty of Lake Maggiore. Thanks to its meeting rooms, which are equipped with state-of-the-art conferencing technologies, the hotel is an ideal venue meetings and conventions, as well as for hosting events and business meetings.

Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

The Italian Riviera sets a breathtaking background to your stay in the Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa. The location of the Art Nouveau style property in Rapallo puts it opposite Portofino, within a charming seaside enclave. Soak up the idyllic setting while savoring the culinary specialties in the restaurants. 

Italian Riviera

Airfares are unpredictable and impossible to estimate at time of brochure printing. Your airfare can range anywhere from approximately $1,000 to $1,900 depending on your departure city. Additionally, current departure tax and fuel surcharges are approximately $650 per person and are subject to change.

Your exact airfare will be advised within 3 business days of booking your tour. You are under no obligation to accept Perillo's air schedule and quote. However, payment for tickets issued by Perillo Tours is due with "final payment."

Airfares DO include your roundtrip airport transfer in Italy at scheduled times, provided you arrive and depart on scheduled tour dates. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, airport transfers are not included.

We strongly recommend you BOOK EARLY as lowest airfares are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plus, more availability on the most convenient flights and best seats.

Affordable Upgrades

When you purchase your Coach ticket through Perillo Tours, you can upgrade to "Premium Economy" on select flights starting at $550 each way. For ultimate comfort enjoy Business Class/First Class for a surcharge of as little as $4,000 per person.

Security Measures

The Transportation Security Administration requires all passengers to provide the exact name as it appears on the government-issued passport, passport number, expiration date, date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. This information will be requested at time of booking for all flight arrangements made through Perillo Tours.

CRITICALLY IMPORTANT: Name corrections are subject to change fees, so please have your passport in-hand when calling us for flight reservations.

Arranging your own air?

Roundtrip airport transfers are provided at scheduled times if you arrive and depart the same day as the tour begins and ends. Click here for the schedule.

Find Your Airport

Or call and let us help you., optional tour add-ons.

Duration: 35 min City: Venice

Experience the quintessential essence of Venice with an unforgettable gondola ride accompanied by a mesmerizing serenade. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Venice, as you glide through its iconic waterways, serenaded by melodious tunes.

Duration: 1.5 hrs City: Rome

Step into the captivating world of Renaissance Rome on our immersive walking tour, where we'll discover iconic landmarks like Bernini's Fountains, the majestic Spanish Steps, and the legendary Trevi Fountain—be sure to toss a coin and make a wish! (Note: On Monday mornings, the Trevi Fountain may be without water, as maintenance personnel collect coins.) Marvel at the grandeur of the Piazza of the Pantheon and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of the renowned Piazza Navona. Join us as we embark on this fascinating journey through history and art, uncovering the splendors of Rome's Renaissance treasures.

format_quote Testimonials

My husband and I recently returned from the 14 day continental tour of Italy. We picked this tour as our honeymoon and could not be happier with our choice! We had such a great time and our tour guide, Paola was incredible! We saw so many breathtaking sights, learned so much about the history and culture of Italy and ate incredible food. This trip was absolutely amazing and I just want to thank Perillo for all their hard work, awesome tour guides, and showing us the best of Italy. We can't wait to come back!

Mr. & Mrs. M.C.

What can I say about our Vesuvius Tour other than it was amazing. Our tour guide Daniela Senise was exceptional. I had a medical problem on the trip - got on the plane in New York walking - got off the plane in Rome unable to walk. Through Daniela's caring, she arranged for a doctor to see me at the hotel, welcomed me on the parts of the tour I could do and was very honest in telling me which parts of the tour would have been impossible for me to do on the walker and eventually in a wheelchair for the last five days of the trip. She was always helpful, never made me feel like I was an imposition/bother. It is because of her that we can still say we had a marvelous time. She is smart. She is friendly. She is knowledgeable. Everything moved smoothly. Daniela is a pure treasure and Perillo Tours should hold on to her.

Mr. & Mrs. R.R.

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Northern Italy Roadtrip Itinerary | 5, 10 and 14 days

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

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

10-day Itinerary – Northern Italy

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

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

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

Day 1 – 2 Milan – Lake Como

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

Milan Highlights

The highlights in Milan are: 

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

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

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

Recommended places to stay in Milan

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

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

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

Day 2 Milan – Lake Como

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

Lake Como Highlights

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

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

Recommended places to stay Lake Como – Varenna

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

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

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

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

Day 3 Dolomites

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

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

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

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

Day 4 Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 Verona

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

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

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

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

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

Our Venice hotel recommendations:

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

Day 6 Venice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Florence hotel recommendations:  

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

Day 7 Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Roadtrip in Tuscany

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

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

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

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

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

Volterra  is another small village on top of a hill. This walled village with a big cathedral dates back to the 8th century BC! It is one of the oldest places in Tuscany. Many people think this village was the scene for the movie  twilight.  However, the town Volterra in this movie is a fictional village and not the same as the historic Italian village.

Driving west from Volterra, you’ll reach the coastal city of Pisa. Known for its iconic leaning tower. Did you know the famous tower straightens every year?

Our hotel recommendations for Pisa:

• B&B La Corte di Stelio – nice Bed & Breakfast with a local family. Customer review 9.1
• B&B Live design – it is a bit out of the center of Pisa, but they score a 9.6, which is one of the highest in the region

Tuscany region is great to spend more time. You can find more information about Tuscany in this article , where we tell more about the different villages in this region. 

Day 9 Cinque Terre – Genoa – Parma

From Pisa, it is only a short drive to one of the most beautiful coastlines in Italy.  Cinque Terre  is a Unesco world heritage site. It is not a coastal city as many people think, the region consists out of five different coastal towns. The towns in Cinque Terre used the be fisherman towns. Nowadays the most important source of income is tourism. 

Cinque Terre is known for its beautiful coastline, colorful houses that are built into the cliffs, stunning nature and excellent hiking trails. It is fantastic to spend a half-day or full-day in this area. During this road trip, we planned a half-day in Cinque Terre, but if you want to spend more time along these coastal towns, you can skip Genoa or Parma in this itinerary.

We wrote an in-depth guide about Cinque Terre. Check out our article What is Cinque Terre Famous For?

Genoa  is known as the birthplace of Columbus, the renowned sea navigator. The city of Genoa was always an important harbor city for Italy. Nowadays it has the third biggest harbor in the Mediterranean Sea. Genoa is excellent to spend a few days and explore the extensive history. You can read all the details about Genoa in this

We wrote several articles about Genoa which we recommend reading before going to the city. Our recommended articles are: 

• What is Genoa Famous For?
• Beaches in Genoa

Driving from Genoa to Parma is a beautiful road when you skip the tollroads.  Parma  will be the last city on this itinerary before you head back to Milan. Parma is a city that will surprise you. The city is known for its parma ham and renowned parmesan cheese. But also many historic buildings are to find in this city.

We were pleasantly surprised during our visit to Parma, and recommend anyone to stay here and explore this lovely city.  Teatro Farnese  is a theater you should visit while in Parma, it is a 16th-century theater, built entirely from wood. And the first theater with a podium instead of the round square you’ll see in the amphitheaters.

Our hotel recommendations in Parma:

• B&B Bsuites Parma – located in the heart of the center and a customer review of 9.3
• Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati – Apartment/ Hotel located in the historical center. The get a customer review of 9.4, the location is perfect!

Day 10: Milan

The last day of this road trip itinerary is traveling back to Milan. Depending on your departure time you can either explore the city of Milan for a second time or maybe need to go directly to the airport. The drive from Parma to Milan is around 2 hours.

When you still have time for exploring, we recommend dropping your rental car at the drop-off and head to the city center. It is always fun to explore a city for the second time. Or maybe you didn’t have time on your first day to see all the highlights of the city.

Recommended route part 1 – Milan to Florence (Day 1 – 7)

You can use these Google Maps as a recommended route to follow.

Recommended Route Part II – Florence – Milan (Day 7 – 10)

5-day itinerary for northern italy roadtrip.

After reading the itinerary above, you might wonder how to shorten the itinerary to five days. Honestly, we think five days is too short to explore the best parts of Northern Italy. But sometimes you just don’t have more time. 

You’ll need to choose between some highlights when you have less amount of time to spend in Italy. But in five days you still can see a lot.

There are several options to spend five days in the Northern part of Italy. We have three recommendations, where we think you still see a lot of this beautiful part of Italy.

5 days Milan to Venice

In this road trip, we recommend you to start in Milan and leave the country from Venice. This way you’ll spend your time in the most efficient way possible. We will skip the Dolomites during this road trip because the drive is taking to much time. Also, you’ll stay in the northern part of the region. You won’t reach the Tuscany region.

Depending on your departure time you can explore the islands around the historical city of Venice or go directly to the airport.

5 days Milan – Dolomites – Milan

The other option to spend only 5 days in the northern part is excellent for hiking enthusiasts.

We recommend spending two full days to explore the Dolomites and do some hiking. You might even drive to  the Queen of the Dolomites – Marmolada.  It is the highest mountain in this mountain range. The drive is a bit far, around 3 hours from the national park Ademello Breno, but you’ll have the best views from the cable car of the highest mountain peak!  

5 days Milan – Cinque Terre – Florence (Tuscany Roadtrip)

Milan to Florence is a great road trip, where you see the best parts the Tuscany and Cinque Terre region. We recommend booking a departure from Florence because it saves you a lot of time. You’ll be able to use your time in the most efficiënt way.

The total length of this road trip is 388 miles (625 kilometers). You’ll drive around 62 miles (100 kilometers) a day, but that gives you enough time to explore the historical and traditional villages and countryside. 

 Don’t forget to book your sightseeing tickets for Florence in advance. The city is bustling, and if you don’t book your tickets in advance, there might be a chance you miss out on visiting the historic Duomo. Or that you need to wait a long time in line.

5 days Milan – Italian Lakes Roadtrip (Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda)

The northern part of Italy is renowned for its beautiful mountain lakes. Lake Garda is even the biggest lake in Europe, and Lake Maggiore and Lake Como are set in some beautiful environments.

If you’re into hiking, watersports, or just want to experience the beauty of nature, this road trip might be something for you.

In five days you’ll visit the three biggest lakes in Italy before heading back to the vibrant city of Milan. Note; the road from Lake Maggiore to Lake Como takes you a few miles through Switzerland. You can also go around Switzerland and stay in Italy, but that’s a longer drive.

Lake Maggiore is in the second largest lake in Italy, and also crosses the border with Switzerland. The lake is the largest in the southern part of Switzerland.

There are some splendid botanical gardens and excellent hiking trails around the lake. The Borromean Islands are the main attraction at Lake Maggiore. Three rocky islands that were bought by the Borromean family centuries ago. They made these islands in the beautiful botanical gardens which they are now. It’s worth a visit!

The two best lakes for watersports like kite- and windsurfing are Lake Como and Lake Garda. There’s a constant wind blowing from the mountains which makes both lakes favorable for a fun sports day on the water.

This road trip is around 500 kilometers, maybe a bit more depending on where you go around the lakes. Approximately 100 kilometers driving a day should be your maximum, so you have enough time to explore the beautiful lakes.

The drive back from Lake Garda to Milan is around 2 hours, so make sure you plan that properly according to your departure.

14-day Itinerary for Northern Italy Roadtrip

When you have more time for a road trip, we recommend using it. 5 days is very short, and you need to make some choices in what places you’re going to visit. 10 days is great, but also a bit short with so much to see around this part of Italy.

14 days or even longer is perfect for a road trip. 

 So if you’re lucky enough to spend more time on the road and enjoy your holiday, this itinerary is for you. The basics are the same as the 10-day itinerary for Northern Italy, but we added more stops and more time for sightseeing and exploring.

Also, we recommend leaving from another city. So you can use your time in the most efficiënt way.

14 days Milan – Venice – Florence

This itinerary takes you all the way from Milan to Venice, and from Venice to Florence. You’ll see the greatest highlights and have enough time for sightseeing, hiking and learn about the Italian culture. 

In some places, we recommend staying two nights, so it is more relaxed, and you allow yourself to really get to know the city or village.  

Recommended route day 1 – 8

Recommended route day 8 – 14, 14 days milan – venice – florence – rome.

The big Italian big four road trip. Many people want to visit these cities while visiting Italy, but especially Rome is a bit far regarding the other cities. However, if you have more then 10 days for your holiday, it is easier to manage.

We recommend starting in Milan and plan your departure from Rome. You can also choose to do this road trip in the other way around. It just depends on what you feel is more convenient.

From Florence to Rome it is about 3 to 4 hours drive. The road trip to Rome will take up a half-day. If you decide to avoid the toll roads, which is a more scenic route along the western coastline of Italy, it will take you even around 5 hours.

We recommend taking the scenic route, though. You’ll see a lot more of the beautiful countryside of Italy.

Rome is a special city to visit. It is one of our favorite cities in Italy! There is so much to find in Rome, historic building, culture, and great food! Of course, you’ll visit the famous landmarks as  Colleseum,   Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Vatican City.  For drinks and dining, we recommend you to go to the  Trastevere  neighborhood. Here you’ll find many small traditional restaurants, the best place to have a relaxing night after much walking in the city!

You don’t need a car when in the city of Rome. Most of the landmarks are in walking distance, and public transport is excellent. So we recommend dropping your rental car when arriving at the city. You can easily take public transportation from and to the airport.

The bus from or to the airport can take up to 1 hour though.

We wrote some articles about Rome, that might interest you:

• What is Rome Famous For?
• City Guide to the Best of Rome

Planning & Packing tips

There are many options for a road trip in the Northern part of Italy. Our road trip itineraries cover the different highlights in this part of the country. We tried to be as thorough as possible and make different routes for different interests.

Best Time to Visit Northern Italy

The best time to visit the Northern part of Italy is between the months of May and September. During these months you’ll have the best weather conditions, less rain and most chance of sunshine. However, the Dolomites can be cold year-round, especially when you go high into the mountains. Make sure to bring some warm clothes, even in summer!

The months July and August are the high tourist seasons, so it is busier during these months. But for the cities of Venice and Florence, it is busy year-round.

Temperatures on average in the Northern part of Italy are favorable. The below charge are average temperatures in the Milan region. The weather around the lakes and in the mountains can vary heavily day to day.

Planning your trip

It is essential to plan ahead while planning a road trip in Italy. At every place where we recommend staying overnight, we put some recommendations for hotel bookings. If you rather look up a hotel yourself we recommend using the searching tool:

Tip: We only book accommodations on Booking.com that are rated with an 8.5 or higher. This way we make sure we get the best places to stay. 

Renting a car in advance can save you a lot of money. We always use rentalcars.com for booking a car. Their search engine gives the best and most affordable results. We also find that their customer service is excellent.

You can use this link to check the latest prices on rental cars in Italy

We found that insurance can be a tricky thing, but since we’re using Rentalcover.com for our rental insurance, we stopped worrying. Rentalcover offers the best coverage for a rental car, and it is cheaper than insurance via the rental company. We recommend using rentalcover. Use this link or the banner below to get a quote.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for your belongings and healthcare while traveling.  WorldNomads   insurance is what we feel is the most comprehensive and reliable travel insurance you can buy. They cover over 150 activities, even some extreme sports and have 24/7 emergency assistance when necessary. 

Hopefully, you’ll never use it, but when you need it, it is good to know there’s a company out there helping you. Click on the banner to get more information on the website of World Nomads.

Packing tips

We love taking pictures and videos during our travels, but also like to be organized with our stuff. We don’t want to bring too many things, because simply you don’t need that much while traveling. Over the years we tested a lot of stuff, check out our full list of recommendations for packing gear and camera stuff on the recommendations page Here are some things we recommend you to use during your Italian road trip:

• Camera: GoPro Hero 7 (Check the latest price on Amazon) – Easy to use, waterproof, and excellent quality.
• Backpack:  North Face Duffel Bag (Check the latest price on Amazon) – has a lot of space and you can use it as a duffel bag or backpack.
• Packing Cubes:  Eagle Creek packing cubes (Check the latest price on Amazon) – to organize your clothes in your backpack.

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18 Secretly Perfect Places In Northern Italy

• Explore the hidden gems of Northern Italy, including historic towns, architectural wonders, and stunning landscapes.
• Visit Trezzo Sull'Adda for its UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural masterpieces like Visconti Castle.
• Discover the picturesque town of Moltrasio on Lake Como, known for its historical significance and natural beauty.

Italy is home to classic and truly sophisticated places many travelers dream of visiting! Indeed, there are many things to see that are unique to North and South Italy , including handfuls of Italian towns and cities that tourists might have never heard of. This notion becomes particularly apparent when exploring the hidden gems in Northern Italy, though.

The hidden gems Northern Italy has in store for travelers adventuring off the beaten path deserve attention because they offer everything from landscapes to chocolate spreads and race cars. For those hoping to stray away from the crowds and discover a different side of this stunning European country, here's a list of eighteen of the best but hidden gems in Northern Italy that tourists should consider visiting.

UPDATE: 2024/04/24 10:16 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

Go Off the Beaten Path in Northern Italy!

Discover even more of the best hidden gems in Northern Italy! This list has been narrowed down and updated with amazing hidden gems in Northern Italy that should be explored in 2024! These fairytale towns and villages are stretched over lakes, rivers, and the Italian Alps and showcase incredible history and architecture. Plan a vacation itinerary for Italy around these secret spots!

These Are The 10 Best Hidden Travel Gems In Italy

Enjoy the beauty and simplicity of life in this village at the heart of lake como.

The small village of Varenna is considered one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Northern Italy! Varenna is planted right in the heart of Lake Como in the Lombardy region and boasts beautiful lakeside villas, endless walking paths, and peaceful rolling hills on all sides of the lake.

This Italian village is only one hour and 30 minutes away from Milan and can easily be reached by car or train.

Visitors can spend their days exploring the town's historic architecture, such as the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio and the Castello di Vezio , and try the Valtellina region's local cuisine and delicious wines.

• When to visit: May-September
• Attractions: Villa Monastero , Orrido di Bellano , In Vinis Veritas

A riverside village on the Mincio with castles, forts, and old bridges

One of the many hidden gem destinations in Northern Italy, Borghetto is a small village in the Province of Verona, renowned country-wide for its charming beauty.

Many find Borghetto a strong contender for the title of Italy's most beautiful village. Borghetto is a riverside village that sits along the River Mincio and parts of it are even built over the water body.

Visitors will find that Borghetto retains much of its medieval glory; its forts, castles, and bridges have weathered the test of time surprisingly well.

The only word of advice? While the village has cafés and small hotels, Borghetto lacks things like post offices and pharmacies. It is one of the secret places in Italy, after all!

• When to visit: Spring and fall for beautiful weather for sightseeing and outdoor fun
• Attractions: Sigurt Garden Park , Scaliger Castle , Mantova Strada

Visit These 12 Underrated Places In Italy This Summer

Explore this fishing village's colorful houses, promenades, and medieval castles rising from the sea.

Open seas, fresh seafood, colorful buildings, and wide beaches may all seem like things better left to the coastal villages of Southern Italy, but that's only because visitors overlook the lesser-known seaside town of Camogli in the north.

Another one of the secret places in Northern Italy, Camogli, is a fishing village located on the west side of the famous Portofino, close to Genoa. Much like the towns along the Amalfi Coast , Camogli's pastel-colored buildings rise from the sea and are flanked by medieval castles, small trattorias, and breezy promenades.

When searching for lesser-known Italian places to visit, head to Camogli and discover one of the most beautiful towns in Italy that are not on the Amalfi Coast for a change!

• When to visit: May to September for warm weather ideal for hiking and other activities
• Attractions: Basilica Santa Maria Assunta , Portofino Natural Park , Abbazia di San Fruttuoso

Enjoy hot springs, summer skiing, and snow-capped mountains in this ancient spa town

Bormio is the best of both worlds: it offers the icy adventures of the neighboring country Switzerland but with the dolce vita of Italy.

The ancient spa town, with its snow-capped mountains and natural hot springs, is one of the many Northern Italy hidden gem towns nestled between the Alps of the Lombardy region.

Bormio has the rustic charm that is expected of ski towns but with the warmth of Italy, where alpine resorts and spas sit next to pizzerias, trattorias, and aperitivo bars.

• When to visit: June to September and December to February for summer and winter action respectively
• Attractions: Stelvio Slope , Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio , Routes & Trails

Saturnia Hot Springs

Soak in healing warm waters heated by surrounding volcanoes.

The Saturnia hot springs are located in the spa town of Tuscany . It is dubbed Italy's best-kept secret, but it has gained in popularity, and it’s not exactly a secretive spot anymore.

It has streams of sparkling blue water that are heated by the surrounding volcanoes in the area.

The stream of water keeps the spring at 37 degrees. A peaceful dip in one of the many pools of the spring is exquisite, especially if tourists visit at sunrise and sunset. Don't worry; this place is free to visit and open 24/7!

• When to visit: Spring and fall; milder temperatures and serene ambiance
• Attractions: Cascate del Mulino , Terme di Saturnia

This Gorgeous Village May Be Italy's Most Affordable

Passo gardena, a stunning alpine pass connecting val gardena with val badia.

There are plenty of beautiful towns in Italy with amazing views of the Dolomites . However, for fans of driving, the Passo Gardena can rival them all, as it's easily one of the most scenic drives in Northern Italy.

One of the hidden gem places in Northern Italy, "Passo Gardena" translates to "Garden Pass" , which is a road loved by road trippers and bikers. As its name suggests, the road is a mountain pass that provides an overlooking view of mountain ranges, including the magnificent Dolomite mountains.

The Passo Gardena was originally constructed in World War I, but today, on top of the pass, there are accommodations where travelers can stay, along with other shops for convenience.

• When to visit: June to September for vibrant landscapes and perfect weather for outdoor activities
• Attractions: Dolomites Via Ferrata Experience , Sellaronda Ski Tour , Trail Arena Val Gardena

A historic alpine retreat with a vintage feel, medieval buildings, and nearby islands

North of Milan, only a local Milanese would recognize this lake because, just like how the elites pledge to Lake Como, a villa near Lake Orta is a status symbol.

This lake features a vintage and historical vibe amid its surroundings, starting from the Alpine mountains wrapped around it and the buildings in its midst constructed in medieval times.

Classic to lavish, the island of Orta offers various accommodations. The grand palazzos on the nearby islands are often rented by vacationers from Italy and other neighboring countries during summer.

• When to visit: May to September when the weather is mild and blooming landscapes
• Attractions: Sacro Monte di Orta , San Giulio Island , Omegna

Italy Summer Bucket List: 10 Things To Do In This Beautiful Country

A "little venice" with charming canals and preserved 15th-century buildings.

Treviso is another one of Northern Italy's hidden gems; it's dubbed one of the "Little Venices" because of its system of canals mirroring the popular canals of the city.

This town is the definition of vintage because of its well-preserved buildings built in the 15th century. Tourists can stroll through Piazza Dei Signori , where the Renaissance palace, Palazzo Protorio, stands.

There are also plenty more sites to visit in Treviso, including Treviso Cathedral , the City Walls and Gates , and Treviso Casa dei Carraresi .

Just like in Venice, visitors must not skip out on strolling along the picturesque water canals in Treviso.

• When to visit: April to June for lovely weather and fewer crowds
• Attractions: Piazza Dei Signori , Palazzo dei Trecento Treviso , Walls of Treviso Gates , Treviso Cathedral

Aosta Valley

Hot springs, vintage accommodation, ski mountains, and epic hiking.

The Aosta Valley is another one of the many hidden gems in Northern Italy to visit, where vacationers can experience the natural beauty of Valle d’Aosta .

It is easily among the best secret destinations in Northern Italy for anyone seeking a remote vacation with fewer crowds but with hot springs for winter, vintage vibe accommodations, and popular hikes in the Aosta Valley, all topped off with a splendid view of the region's ski mountains.

The Aosta Valley offers world-class attractions and activities all year round; it promises some of the best skiing in Italy in the winter and stunning vistas of mountain ranges on its hiking trails in the summer.

• When to visit: June to September for summer activities and December to February for winter action
• Attractions: Teatro Romano, Aosta , Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso , Osservatorio Astronomico della Regione Autonoma

One of the largest producers of coffee in Italy, filled with Austro-Hungarian Empire buildings

There are many reasons to visit Trieste , one of which is that it's one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Northern Italy. It's known as the country’s forgotten city yet now serves as one of the largest producers of coffee.

Hence, this town oozes coffee shops and houses, and caffeine is a scent that every tourist would naturally associate with the town.

Because of its diversity, the town is also home to various cultural buildings built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. One of the more hidden places in Trieste is Catello di Miramare , a palace built in 1855 that overflows with history.

• When to visit: May to September for the best weather for outdoor activities
• Attractions: Piazza dell'Unita d'Italia , Historical Museum of the Miramare Castle , Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabb

Discover historic art and gothic buildings in the heart of the Italian Alps

This pretty little town is yet another one of the many beautiful hidden gems of Northern Italy; it has some of Italy's earliest art scenes, which date back centuries.

Chiusa also boasts medieval beauty, with gothic churches, vintage accommodations, colorful buildings, and retro landscapes.

What's more, the town flaunts its museum that houses valuable pieces and Loreto treasures, from paintings to ceramic works of Italian and Spanish artists from centuries ago.

Chiusa also offers delicious cuisines, from Alpine to Mediterranean flavors, within its classic to luxurious restaurants, such as Turmmwirt and Walther von der Vogelweide .

• When to visit: May to September for pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes
• Attractions: Chiusa - Klausen , Kloster Sben - Monastero Di Sabiona , Maso Johannser Hof

10 Small Towns In Italy To Visit

An enchanting medieval town with historic buildings and a stunning basilica.

Cities like Bergamo are secret places that Italians like to keep to themselves. The streets in this little town are gorgeous, with vintage facades in the surrounding buildings and alleys.

Overall, there are many reasons to visit Bergamo , one of which is that it features the classic Basilica , which is embellished with gold ceilings and accessories.

Another sophisticated building is the Casa Palma Camozzi Vertova , along with many more to be viewed when strolling the town's historic streets.

• When to visit: May to September for lovely weather and festivals
• Attractions: Colleoni di Solza Castle , Basilica S. Maria Maggiore , Palazzo Agliardi

South Tyrol

A rich cultural appeal and alpine beauty.

South Tyrol is a unique region of Northern Italy. The reason why this region as a whole is a gem of Northern Italy is that it is a German-speaking alpine region.

Up until World War One, this region was part of Austria, and today, it preserves much of its German character and traditions, which is one of the reasons to visit South Tyrol (its beautiful mountain scenery is another).

The stunning mountainous region is a world apart from much of Italy, and it should be on anyone's bucket list. It feels completely different from the rest of Italy and boasts epic hiking, skiing, and many more outdoor adventures.

• When to visit: May to October for temperate weather excellent for outdoor activities
• Attractions: Val Gardena , Bolzano , Merano , Dolomites

Campione d'Italia

A unique enclave surrounded by switzerland, with lake views and a rich culture.

Campione d'Italia is another odd gem of North Italy. It is an Italian exclave in neighboring Switzerland, meaning that it's a small piece of Italy broken off from Italy and is completely surrounded by Switzerland.

Campione d'Italia is less than a kilometer from the rest of Italy, but visitors must travel 14 kilometers along winding roads through Switzerland to get there.

• When to visit: May to September for mild weather and vibrant events
• Attractions: Sanctuary of S. Maria dei Ghirli , The Oratory of San Pietro , Church of S. Zenone

An Instagrammable haven famed for white truffles, Michelin-star restaurants, and Nutella!

Alba, with its historic streets and rolling vineyards, is a retro Instagram filter in reality because of its lovely brownish lands, coupled with the alluring presence of thick hanging fog in the morning and at night.

This town is also popular for its aromatic and garlicky flavor underneath its grounds - Italy’s most popular product, white truffles. Hence, over the years and with its growing white truffle industry, this town and its neighboring areas have unsurprisingly birthed some of Italy’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Moreover, Alba is the home of the world’s most popular chocolate hazelnut spread, Nutella !

• When to visit: May to October when mild weather, festivals, and vibrant landscapes prevail
• Attractions: Abellonio - Cascina Piccaluga , Centro Storico , Langhe landscapes

Trezzo SullAdda

A historic unesco world heritage site just a short drive from milan.

Even though Trezzo sull'Adda is only 19 miles from Milan, it's a charming Italian village that is easy to overlook. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many architectural wonders, including Visconti Castle, a 14th-century citadel.

Villa Cavenago, one of the most exquisite and stunning monuments in Trezzo, is another must-see sight.

• When to visit: Spring and fall for ideal weather and picturesque landscapes
• Attractions: Castello Visconteo , Villa Cavenago , Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant

Known for Bugatti race cars and exquisite Italian cuisine

Racecars and vinegar are two things that one could associate with Modena. Despite being unpopular with tourists, it's widely known for its Bugatti race cars since Bugatti once had a factory in the city.

However, the deserted factory never stops tourists from getting closer looks at the city’s collection of Maserati cars owned by the Panini family. Modena is also the home of some of the best Italian cuisines, like the tagliatelle ragu and the best Frutti di Mare.

• When to visit: April to October for its beautiful weather and a range of festivals
• Attractions: Duomo di Modena , Acetaia Villa San Donnino , Museum Enzo Ferrari Modena

A historic town with medieval watch towers and ancient churches on the Adda River

Located a few kilometers northeast of Milan in the Province of Lecco is the nondescript commune of Imbersago (but it can be considered a hidden gem of Northern Italy). With ancient churches, medieval watchtowers, and 17th-century shrines, Imbersago has a rich artistic and architectural heritage.

The highlight of the town, however, is its location; Imbersago is perched on the banks of the Adda River and is connected to Villa d'Adda on the opposite side via a ferry. This is no ordinary ferry, however.

The Villa D'Adda Reaction Ferry is believed to be the only reaction ferry in Italy. That is, the boat runs on an overhead cable that is adjusted based on the river's currents rather than a motorized engine. Fascinatingly, it's believed that the ferry was designed by the great Leonardo Da Vinci himself!

• When to visit: May to June for moderate weather and blooming landscapes
• Attractions: Villa D'Adda Reaction Ferry , Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Woods , Monsereno Horses

The most amazing ways to experience Italy this year

From a luxurious city break on water to feasting on different regions' foodie attractions, here are the best ways to explore Italy

And then, of course, there's Italy's inimitable food and wine scene – surely the main reason we keep returning time after time. Sample only the freshest burrata, finest olive oil and softest focaccia on a foodie tour of Puglia , sip your way around Veneto's many prosecco houses or tuck into the rustic Ladin dishes found in mountain villages across the Dolomites.

There's so much to see and do in Italy, whether it's heading into the bucolic hills surrounding Bologna, exploring the ancient, world-famous monuments of Rome , or visiting the ornate palazzo gardens of the Italian Lakes - an Italy holiday should be an annual occasion.

That's why we've rounded up the most amazing ways to explore Italy . Whether you're a foodie, an ancient history fan or love nothing more than relaxing by the sea as you watch the world go by, we've got the perfect Italian escape for you...

See Venice during a luxurious city break on water

A maze of atmospheric canals, grand piazzas and ornate palazzos, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Best seen from the water, you can visit her many islands by boat, including Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello. Cruise under the ornate stone bridges along the Grand Canal to St Mark's Square, home to Italy's most famous Byzantine cathedral, and don't miss a peek into 14th-century Doge's Palace, a spectacular example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Of course, one of the best things about visiting Venice is the food. Spend a morning pottering around the Rialto Market or grab an espresso and biscotti in Caffè Florian, Europe's oldest coffee shop, which has been serving Venetians since 1720. As the sun sets, seek out a local bacaro for a spritz and cicchetti, Venetian-style tapas.

Explore the Venetian Lagoon and enjoy a memorable private performance from the world-famous tenor Russell Watson on Good Housekeeping's eight-day boutique cruise of Venice.

Or, you could cruise Venice and the islands, and enjoy a visit to the famous Rialto food market and a cooking demonstration with celebrated chef Angela Hartnett.

FIND OUT MORE

If after-hours tours are your thing, you'll want to know all about a luxury cruise that includes exclusive sightseeing like visiting the jaw-dropping St Mark's Basilica after nightfall to witness a peaceful lighting ceremony.

Feast on the natural attractions of Puglia

Fragrant olive oil, heavenly focaccia and the creamiest of burrata, Puglia is renowned for its incredible produce. Take a trip to Bari and sample the region's famous orecchiette, the ear-shaped pasta made by hand in the streets of the old town. Don't miss a taste of pasticciotti, a sweet pastry tartlet filled with cream and a sour cherry which is a speciality from Lecce.

Puglia has plenty of culture and heritage, too. Stop by Locorotondo , known as Puglia's prettiest town thanks to a tumble of whitewashed cottages. Explore the ancient caves and rock churches of Sassi di Matera, now a Unesco World Heritage Site, or visit Alberobello, the tiny village famous for its quirky trulli houses with coned roofs.

Good Housekeeping has a six-day foodie tour of Puglia, taking in the highlights of this gastronomic region. You'll learn how to make orecchiette pasta, tour an olive oil farm near Ostuni and enjoy a special Italian cookery masterclass.

Experience Tuscany and see Andrea Bocelli perform

With its expansive rolling vineyards, elegant cities bursting with culture, and enchanting medieval villages, no region quite captures the essence of la dolce vita quite like sunny Tuscany. Some of Italy’s best-loved wines, including fruity Chianti, hail from Tuscany, and go down perfectly with traditional Tuscan cuisine, like hearty soups and meaty stews.

Florence is a highlight of any trip to this region. This city, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is home to countless landmarks and attractions, from Michelangelo’s David to the Basilica of Santa Croce. There are many small towns and villages to discover dotted throughout the Tuscan countryside too, including the small medieval village of Lajatico, the hometown of world-renowned tenor, Andrea Bocelli.

Join Good Housekeeping on a trip to Tuscany that takes you to Florence, Prato, Siena, and Lajatico, where you'll have tickets to see Andrea Bocelli's incredible annual concert at the Teatro del Silenzio.

Como over to Italy's legendary Alpine lakes

Chi-chi lakeside restaurants, pastel-hued palazzos and picture-perfect towns - there are a million and one reasons why Lake Como is one of the best-loved of Italy's lakes. Banked by the Alps, there are dozens of pretty towns and villages along its shores. Colico is one of the larger towns, famed for its elegant pastel-hued buildings and charming squares. It's also a good launch pad for a lake cruise under the gaze of the snow-capped mountains.

Close to the border of Switzerland, it's all too tempting to explore the alpine region of Italy and Switzerland a little further, so why not hop on the iconic cherry-red Bernina Express and chug through the scenic mountains over to St Moritz, Switzerland's snazziest resort for fondue?

Good Housekeeping has an eight-day rail holiday which includes a ride to St Moritz on the Bernina Express. You'll spend seven nights in the 19th-century Hotel Risi, located right on the northern shores of Lake Como.

Hit the prosecco trail in northern Italy’s Veneto region

Lovers of fine wine will be wowed by a to visit Italy's glorious Veneto region, where lush green hills are crisscrossed by seemingly endless vineyard terraces, bordered by beech forests and dotted with ancient villages. Many of the finest wineries in the Prosecco hills can be explored on behind-the-scenes tours where you'll get to learn about the region's winemaking traditions and, of course, taste some of the finest vintages.

Driving through these sun-kissed hills is the best way to take in the exceptional views as you travel between historic villages and vineyards. Some of the most picturesque pit stops to add to your route are Pieve di Soligo, with its baroque church and 19th-century Palazzo, and Bassano di Grappa, where you can visit the fascinating Poli Grappa Museum.

Good Housekeeping has a self-driven tour available where you'll visit the finest wineries in Veneto and e-bike along the heavenly ‘Path of Prosecco'.

Discover the delicacies of beautiful Bologna

Bologna has a reputation as one of Italy's best cities for food. In fact, it's even earned the nickname La Grassa - or 'the fat one' - for its famous dishes, including meaty ragùs, hearty homemade pastas and spiced mortadella sausage. If you're feeling energetic, you can burn off the calories by climbing the 498 steps of Torre degli Asinelli to enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the city.

But there's more to Bologna than just food. The countryside surrounding this gourmet city is wonderful, with forests, waterfalls, and nature reserves to explore, offering a haven of serenity away from city life. Foodies will not want to miss nearby Modena either, where fruity balsamic vinegar is produced from the sweet white grapes that grow in peaceful vineyards.

Good Housekeeping is offering a unique gourmet getaway to Bologna and Modena, where you'll visit local producers and enjoy a hands-on cooking lesson.

Whisk yourself away to fair Verona

As the setting of Romeo and Juliet, where could be more romantic than Verona? While many who visit here are charmed by the city's links to Shakespeare's great romantic tragedy - and you'll find plenty of references throughout the city - Verona has more to it than legendary literary status. Within centuries-old walls lies a city known for its history and Renaissance architecture. Explore the city's many historic landmarks, including the ancient Roman amphitheatre, the Ponte Pietra bridge, and the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. Then stroll through the picturesque streets and lively piazzas, pausing to feast on delicious northern Italian cuisine.

Good Housekeeping offers a fabulous week-long escorted tour to Italy, staying near the Lakes. It includes a tour of Lake Garda and day trips to Venice and Verona, with a choice of wonderful lakeside hotels for your base.

Ride in luxury on the Orient Express from Venice to Paris

If you're looking for a rail holiday with a difference, a journey on board one of the world's most famous trains between two of Europe's most culture-packed cities is hard to beat. The Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express is the height of luxury train travel, with meticulously restored 1920s carriages and plush dining cars.

One of the routes you can take on board this historic train is from Venice to Paris, including a seasonal four-course d'hôte menu for dinner before a night spent in a luxurious cabin where you'll sleep soundly between crisp damask sheets and fine blankets as you glide across the continent.

Good Housekeeping has a very special trip available on the Orient Express where you'll enjoy the company of journalist and rail expert Michael Portillo. Before boarding the train you'll have three nights to spend in Venice, exploring the highlights of this enchanting city.

Admire the glittering coast and fascinating history of Sicily

Italy's largest island is a magnet for those wanting sun, sea and sand as well as a whole lot of history. Alongside its exquisite natural landscapes, Sicily is home to a variety of intriguing ancient Roman and Greek ruins standing between exquisite Baroque palazzos.

One of the top spots for history buffs visiting the island is Agrigento, where you'll find the monumental Valley of the Temples, a renowned archaeological wonder including the remarkably preserved Temple of Concordia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And between visits to incredible historic monuments, you can treat yourself to some of the region's fine food and wine, with abundant fresh seafood from the surrounding Mediterranean Sea.

Join Good Housekeeping's eight-day Sicily tour and enjoy visits to the Valley of the Temples, Ragusa, Mount Etna and Taormina. The tour is specially designed for solo travellers, with prices based on single occupancy of a double room.

Taste your way around Tuscany

Another top pick for a memorable foodie holiday in Italy is rural Tuscany, where sun-kissed hillsides are carpeted in vineyards, and where the typical 'cucina povera' centres around simple, homegrown ingredients cooked in traditional recipes. This is true farm-to-table dining with the freshest of Tuscan produce.

As well as classic, homely food, Tuscany has plenty of fine dining to try, with more than 30 Michelin-starred restaurants and a huge range of excellent locally-produced wines to enjoy. Siena, one of the region's best-loved cities, is famous for its sweet treats, and you can pay a visit to a local pasticceria to learn the stories behind traditional Sienese cakes like ricciarelli , cantucci and panpepato, and taste some for yourself. Good Housekeeping is offering an eight-day gourmet tour of Tuscany with farm visits, wine tastings, a cooking class in Cypress and a visit to Livorno's famous Vettovaglie food market.

Tour Italy's glorious northern lakes on a no-fly getaway

With their gorgeous Alpine views, elegant villas and exquisite villages, Italy's northern lakes have been a chic holiday destination since Roman times. It's no wonder they're a celebrity holiday hotspot, with the likes of Richard Branson, Brad Pitt, Madonna, and George and Amal Clooney reportedly owning holiday homes on the lakes.

There is something for everyone here, with glorious hiking routes, water sports on the lakes, and beaches that make a great freshwater alternative to the coast. It's also a haven for gardeners, or anyone with an appreciation for plants, with delightful botanical gardens to be found in the grounds of historic villas.

Explore Italy's lakes with Good Housekeeping on a nine-day no-fly tour. You'll stay in a lakeside hotel on Lake Maggiore, take a boat trip to the Borromean islands and venture to neighbouring Switzerland to see the mighty Matterhorn.

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Every Photo from Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Dreamy Lake Como Vacation

The couple escaped to the celeb-favorite vacation spot in northern Italy for a few days between stops on Swift's Eras tour

Mackenzie Schmidt is the Home and Travel Editor for PEOPLE. She's worked at PEOPLE for over five years as a writer and editor on the Lifestyle team.

Taylor Swift  and  Travis Kelce made the most of a short break between dates on the European leg of her Eras Tour with a romantic rendezvous in Lake Como this week. There they strolled the scenic streets of the celebrity-frequented vacation destination, motored across the pristine waters in a speedboat and even shared a kiss in the rain.

After a few days away, the pair has now departed the hotspot in northern Italy for Stockholm, where the Grammy winner will play her next three shows May 17-19.

See all the photos from their picturesque escape below!

Sweet Escape

Swift and Kelce were first spotted on the streets of Italy on Wednesday, May 15. The sighting came after the pop superstar  wrapped a string of Eras Tour shows in Paris and her beau  supported her from the crowd  alongside  Gigi Hadid  and  Bradley Cooper .

Out on the Town

The pair walked with their arms around one another on an evening outing in the popular summer vacation destination — a regular haunt of stars including George and Amal Clooney , Jay-Z and Beyoncé, and John Legend and Chrissy Teigen, among many others.

Walking in the Rain

A spring shower couldn't interrupt the short tryst. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end held an umbrella over his girlfriend as they walked toward the lakeshore on Friday, May 17.

On the Water

The pair boarded a speedboat — a common form of transportation between the scenic towns that surround Lake Como — and sat close together under cover to avoid the rain.

Romance on Deck

Their boat driver was kind enough to snap a photo for the lovebirds as they shared a sweet kiss on their journey.

An Intimate Moment

In another moment from the boat trip, Swift can be seen reaching for Kelce and seemingly grazing his cheek.

Fashion Fit for a Shower

Swift wore a classic khaki trench for the occasion, while her man donned a graphic black-and-white checked sweater and black slacks.

Layering Look

The weather couldn't put a damper on Swift's fashion moment. At one point during the outing, Swift removed her trench to reveal another stylish look underneath.

Little Black Dress

The singer sported a chic black cocktail dress under her jacket and shiny black Mary Janes, which she showed off topside. She also carried a coordinating black handbag.

Port of Call

Once they arrived at their destination, Kelce exhibited his chivalrous nature and helped Swift safely disembark onto the dock.

The couple safely departed their vessel hand in hand — and seemingly in slightly improved weather.

Swift and Kelce are pros at squeezing in a quick moment away together. Throughout her Eras Tour they managed to share special travel moments in Australia, Southeast Asia, Malibu and the Bahamas .

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Mayor Adams meets pope, tours migrant center on trip to Rome

The mayor went to Rome, saw Vatican City and met the pope on a recent three-day trip.

Mayor Eric Adams was in Italy to attend the World Meeting on Human Fraternity, a global peace conference.

What You Need To Know

Mayor eric adams met pope francis on saturday morning in rome adams went to rome for a three-day trip that included visits to a migrant center and vatican city the mayor was in rome to attend the world meeting on human fraternity, a global peace conference adams also visited the roman colosseum and the sistine chapel on his trip.

The mayor's trip lasted from Friday to Sunday. On Saturday morning, Adams met Pope Francis.

“Clearly there’s something special about Pope Francis, just down to his interactions with you. It was clear how attentive he was,” Adams said.

Adams spoke to the pope for a few minutes and had some specific requests.

“Please pray for us as we deal with the many conflicts globally. The war in Sudan, what is happening in Haiti, what is happening in the Middle East. I discussed Robert Kraft’s organization to end antisemitism,” Adams said.

The mayor said the pope responded in the affirmative and then asked Adams to pray for him.

“I think that some people have a level aura and energy and the ability to just calm people in different situations, and I think that’s what he possessed,” Adams said.

The mayor said ahead of the meeting that he was excited to see the pope.

“In my prayers, I thank God for having the opportunity this morning,” Adams said.

Adams also delivered remarks to the global conference on Saturday. His speech focused on issues facing major cities.

“Mayors say it all the time. It’s a fraternity that many of us understand. It’s the same issues from housing to public safety to economic recovery to educating children to making sure our citizens are employable,” Adams said.

Adams used the last day of his trip to visit local communities and migrant centers.

The mayor started Sunday by visiting a migrant center outside of Rome. Adams said his goal was to see how Italy handled their own influx of migrants.

“Probably the top thing is how fast they are able to cycle the migrants and asylum seekers out of the welcome center. Within two months, they target folks into working, trained, teaching them basic Italian and moving them forward through the system,” Adams said.

The mayor said he plans to potentially use the best practices he saw in Rome back in New York.

On Sunday, Adams also made stops in Jewish and Muslim communities, visits that came as Adams has been dealing with pro-Palestinian protests and antisemitism in the city.

“As I moved from those different houses of worship, there was the same underlying theme. Be kind to your fellow man. Be there to assist them as they move forward. And let your faith be shown through you as you move about your daily life,” Adams said.

The mayor’s trip was funded by the foundation that hosts the conference. Adams returned to New York City on Monday.

Money blog: How to sell your home without an estate agent - and save thousands

How easy is it to sell your home without an estate agent - and how much could it save you? We spoke to industry experts to find out. Read this and our other Weekend Money content below, and let us know your thoughts. We'll be back with live updates on Monday.

Saturday 18 May 2024 09:05, UK

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By Ollie Cooper , Money team

Estate agent fees are one of the big expenses in selling a house - but rule changes and the rise of private sale websites have made it more common for people to go it alone.

But how easy is it - and what do you need to know? We spoke to industry experts to find out.

Firstly, what do estate agents do for their money?

An estate agent will typically charge in the range of 1%-3.5% of the sale price. 

That means for the average house price (£284,691 from December) you could pay anywhere from £2,846 to £9,964 in commission fees.

"When you use an estate agent, their fee includes taking professional photographs, advertising your home, conducting property viewings, and negotiating a price on your behalf," says Jack Smithson  from the home ownership site  Better.co.uk .

In addition, an estate agent will compile comprehensive details of your house, including room sizes and descriptions of fixtures and fittings. 

"They will also provide a concise write-up about the local area, highlighting amenities, schools, and transportation links," Jack adds. 

And they'll conduct checks on buyers for you (more on this later).

It sounds like a lot, but...

"Selling your home yourself can be a manageable process with a few key steps," Jack says.

Preparation 

You should begin by thoroughly researching house prices in your area, using websites like Rightmove and Zoopla - but seek free valuations from local estate agents to ensure you have a realistic asking price in mind.

Next, you want to take high-quality photos of your house.

Jack advises using tutorials on YouTube to learn new shooting and editing techniques that can take you to the next level.

You then want to write down what makes your home unique.

"While browsing other listings for inspiration, take it a step further by emphasising what you love about living in your home and the surrounding area," Jack suggests.

"Whether it's the refreshing scent of the coastline or the tranquil sounds of village life, incorporating these details can help potential buyers visualise living there," he advises. 

Like using YouTube for photography tips, you can use free tools such as ChatGPT and Grammarly if you need help with your writing, Jack says. 

Advertising

This is probably the biggest perk of going through an established estate agent - your home is much more likely to be viewed because they will have an established audience and a market. But it's very possible to do it alone. 

"When it comes to advertising your home, explore a variety of avenues including local newspapers and social media," Jack says.

"Consider using websites like Strike, which allow individuals to list their properties for free on platforms like Rightmove," he suggests.

Viewings 

Once you've secured some viewings, you've got the opportunity to make it a bit more personal than estate agents ever could - a real advantage. 

"Explain the reasons behind your decision to purchase the property, highlight its unique features, and share the aspects of your neighbourhood that make it a desirable place to live," Jack says. 

The small things matter when showing people round - so try to take an objective look around before you bring anyone in.

Do the things you'd do normally - make sure it smells nice and it's clean and tidy.

"Lastly, it's worth knowing that you must legally provide potential buyers with a free Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)."

The sale itself

Perhaps the most daunting aspect is the physical exchange of contracts and money. 

An estate agent would typically oversee the process of the initial offer acceptance to the transfer of keys to the new owner.

However, if you go it alone, you'll need to become the central point of contact - bridging the gap between your solicitor or conveyancer and the buyer and their legal representative.

"Once you've accepted an offer on your property, your first task is to draft what's called a memorandum of sale," Jack says.  

This document is a written confirmation of your acceptance of the offer and details the agreed price along with any specific conditions you've both agreed to.

"It's then recommended to engage the services of a solicitor or conveyancer to ensure all legal obligations are met," Jack says (of course, you'll need to do this even if you have an estate agent).

The cost of hiring one typically ranges from a few hundred to over £1,000, depending on factors such as fixed fees, hourly rates, the complexity of the sale and additional costs like property searches or land registry fees.

"In the absence of an estate agent, you'll be responsible for keeping your buyer informed about the progress of the sale. This involves regular updates on the status of legal procedures and any relevant developments," Jack says, before adding that this can actually be a good thing.

"By taking on these responsibilities independently, you'll have greater control over the sale process. However, it will require you to be exceptionally organised, and you'll need to be very good at communicating too."  

Any risks to be aware of?

Rita Patel, legal director at law firm  Browne Jacobson , tells us the biggest risk for people selling their properties without an estate agent is the lack of a vetting and verification process of the potential buyer.

Estate agents will verify the buyer's identity and check the buyer's proof and source of funds - without this, there's no way to assess the buyer is legitimate and can afford to buy.

"Whilst this process is something lawyers can help with, this is often at an additional cost, and you'll need to start from square one if there is an issue with a potential buyer's identification and/or financial eligibility," Rita says. 

More generally, selling without an agent can extend the time it takes to sell. 

"Zoopla suggests this timeframe is normally around 17-34 weeks, but with no one on hand to consistently promote and drive the property sale at all stages, going solo drags this process out," Rita says. 

"Agents can also help mediate any potential breakdowns in communication between the buyer and seller - reducing the likelihood of having to go back to market and start again."

The advantages

Laura Owen-Brown, a PR manager from Gloucestershire, tells us she is set to sell her house without an estate agent in the near future.

"My disappointment with estate agents stems from their lack of familiarity with the properties they attempted to sell me when I was buying my current house," she says. 

"They couldn't tell me about the details that truly matter, like the optimal times for sunlight in the garden, how much council tax I'd pay, what the roof was made of, the places I could walk my dog off lead or the impact of post-football match traffic on Sundays.

"These types of details can shape the experience of living in a house for years and are just as important as the square footage, EPC rating or how many bedrooms a property has," she adds. 

She says the current "transactional" approach to selling houses feels "impersonal and outdated" to her. 

"Yes, I'll have to handle more admin, but the savings in both money and time will make it worthwhile. Liaising with buyers and solicitors directly without a third party slowing everything down will mean I can be in control and have transparency throughout the process, especially during negotiations," she says.

All in all...

As Laura says, it's very much a case of whether you can stomach the admin and are happy to take the risks on background financial checks. 

If you are aware of all the above and willing to take on the organisational burden, you could save yourself a serious chunk of cash. 

As we've been reporting in the Money blog over the last few months, an increasing number of cities are either imposing or increasing the cost of tourist taxes on visitors. 

Many say they are preventing damages from overtourism, as well as funding local infrastructure and businesses. 

Here are the latest tourist fees for the most popular spots in Europe...

Tourists visiting Venice for the day will have to pay a €5 entry fee to enter the city between the hours of 8.30am and 4pm.

Meanwhile, those staying overnight in Venice are charged a fee between €1 to €5 within the accommodation price for the first five consecutive nights.

People visiting the Spanish city now have to pay €3.25 if they're staying in official accommodation, up from €2.75.

Manchester 

Visitors must pay £1 per room, per night across 73 hotels. 

The scheme, which has raised more than £2m within a year, is for improvements to attract more tourists.

Tourists must pay €2 per person for every night they stay, although this is only applied for a maximum of seven nights.

The Greek government has introduced a Climate Crisis Resilience Fee to charge tourists anywhere from €0.50 to €10 per room, per night.

The amount depends on the hotel category and the time of year.

Visitors to the Croatian city must pay €2.65 per person, per night throughout April to September. 

However, the fee has been temporarily reduced to €1.86 for the rest of this year.

Different amounts are charged depending on the type of accommodation.

The most expensive charge is €14.95 for a stay in palaces, and €0.65 at one or two-star campsites, per person, per night. 

Those staying in a typical four-star hotel are charged around €8.

Those staying in the Hungarian capital are charged an additional 4% each night, which is calculated based on the price of the room.

Tourists in Berlin must pay 5% of the room price, excluding VAT and service fees.

The tourist tax here has increased from €0.82 to €1.97 per day. 

Prices researched by travel insurance site Quotezone.co.uk

The main topics from the Money blog that got you commenting this week were...

Government-funded childcare

• Michel Roux Jr's comments about the future of the restaurant industry 

Nearly 600 new skyscrapers for London

From last Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England have been able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

Those hours can be claimed from September. 

Some readers pointed out the T&Cs... 

This 15 hrs a week is for term time ONLY. So full-time working parents will have to either tell their employer they can't work in school holidays or pro-rata it across the year which is 10 hours a week. Yvonne grandma

Others said it spoke to issues in the wider childcare sector...

Is the government going to give pay rises to nursery staff? They are very low paid staff, and can't get enough staff as it is!! Nurseries may have to close if they don't get staff, so parents won't be able to take up the offer!! What is the government going to do about it? Carol

Chefs or delivery drivers?

Celebrity chef Michel Roux Jr has suggested that restaurants may only open three days per week because young people prefer other jobs - like delivering parcels. 

"Just because I worked 80 hours a week or more doesn't mean the next generation should," he said. 

"Quite the contrary. That is something that we have to address in our industry."

Readers said...

That's because one [job] is on the verge of slave labour and one definitely is slave labour. And the latter I'm referring to is working in a kitchen for a chef.  Realist2024

Spent 35 years working as a chef. Young people nowadays are not willing to do the extra hours (usually unpaid) and work every weekend. Godsends like my generation of chefs did and do.  Bucks

There's been considerable backlash in our comments section after a thinktank said a total of 583 skyscrapers are "queuing up in the pipeline" to be built across central London.

That is more than double the 270 built in the past decade...

"600 new skyscrapers on way for London" while the majority are struggling. When will something serious be done about growing wealth inequality in the UK? A growing economy is useless while the gap between the ultra rich and everyone else increases. Qwerty1

How many unnecessary skyscrapers for London? It's fine, as long as they are not made using steel, glass, concrete or bricks - don't people know there's a climate emergency? Shanghaiwan

Who's paying for it? What about the North? treelectrical

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a respected energy markets researcher has said.

Ahead of next Friday's announcement by Ofgem for the July-September period, Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap will rise again slightly in October, before falling in January next year. 

"A predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years," a spokesperson for Uswitch said. 

Around 100 more prosecutions of sub-postmasters unrelated to the Horizon scandal could be "tainted" , a Sky News investigation has found, as officials worked with now discredited Post Office investigators to secure convictions.

The prosecutions of Post Office staff were led by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) between 2001 and 2006.

It is understood these usually involved the cashing in of stolen order books.

The Post Office itself wrongly prosecuted hundreds of sub-postmasters between 1999 and 2015 - based on evidence from the faulty Horizon accounting system.

Read more from our business correspondent Adele Robinson  by clicking  here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end" , according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

The list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

While the combined wealth of the list's 350 wealthiest individuals amounts to more than £795bn - larger than the GDP of Poland - the guide's compiler says time will tell what impact a drop in billionaires could have.

"This year's Sunday Times Rich List suggests Britain's billionaire boom has come to an end," Robert Watts said.

Read on here ...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

The Body Shop’s administrators are to launch an auction of the chain after concluding that an alternative restructuring of one of Britain’s best-known high street retailers was not viable.

Sky News has learnt that FRP Advisory, which has been overseeing the collapsed business since January, is to begin formally sounding out potential buyers in the coming weeks.

The move raises the prospect of new owners taking control of The Body Shop, which was founded nearly half a century ago.

Read more here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling - in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end", according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

Published today, the list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

"Many of our home-grown entrepreneurs have seen their fortunes fall and some of the global super rich who came here are moving away."

Top of the list is British-Indian businessman Gopi Hinduja and his family, whose wealth of £37.2bn is the largest fortune in the ranking's history.

But other familiar names in the list saw their riches fall, with Sir Richard Branson's total dropping by £2.4bn, which is back to his 2000 level.

Last year's top climber Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who bought a stake in Manchester United this year, fell two positions with a decline of £6.1bn.

Euan Blair, Tony Blair's eldest son, made the list for the first time, as did Sir Lewis Hamilton.

It comes as the UK continues to deal with a cost-of-living crisis, with new figures this week revealing a record 3.1 million food bank parcels were distributed over the course of a year.

The top 10:

• Gopi Hinduja - £37.2bn
• Sir Leonard Blavtanik - £29.2bn
• David and Simon Reuben and family - £24.9bn
• Sir Jim Ratcliffe - £23.5bn
• Sir James Dyson and family - £20.8bn
• Barnaby and Merlin Swire and family - £17.2bn
• Idan Ofer - £14.9bn
• Lakshmi Mittal and family - £14.9bn
• Guy, George, Alannah and Galen Weston and family - £14.4bn
• John Fredriksen and family - £12.8bn

A group of social media influencers have been charged in relation to promoting an unauthorised investment scheme.

The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) original cast member Lauren Goodger, 37, former Love Island star Biggs Chris, 32, and Celebrity Big Brother winner Scott Timlin, 36, also known as Scotty T, are among seven TV personalities alleged to have been paid to promote the scheme to their combined 4.5 million Instagram followers.

The others charged by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) include former Love Islanders Rebecca Gormley, 26, Jamie Clayton, 32, and Eva Zapico, 25 and TOWIE member Yazmin Oukhellou, 30.

The UK's financial watchdog brought the charges in a crackdown on "finfluencers" who use their online platforms to offer advice and information on various financial topics.

It alleges that between 19 May 2018 and 13 April 2021 Emmanuel Nwanze, 30, and Holly Thompson, 33, used an Instagram account to provide advice on buying and selling investments known as contracts for difference (CFDs) when they were not authorised to do so.

The watchdog said CFDs were high-risk investments used to bet on the price of an asset, in this case the price of foreign currencies.

It previously warned that 80% of customers lost money when investing in CDFs.

Mr Nwanze has been charged with running the scheme. He faces one count of breaching the general prohibition of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, and one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

Ms Thompson, Mr Chris, Mr Clayton, Ms Goodger, Ms Gormley, Ms Oukhellou, Mr Timlin and Ms Zapico each face one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

All nine will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 13 June.

The FCA asked anyone who believed they had sustained a loss due to the scheme to contact its consumer contact centre.

A hotel part-owned by Gary Neville and other ex-Manchester United legends has been named one of the best places to work in hospitality. 

Each year, The Caterer releases its top 30 best places for employees in the sector, with the top six featuring some familiar names.

The list is compiled via anonymous employee survey - with no input from managers or owners. 

Hotel Football, the only hotel with a rooftop five-a-side pitch, was among the top six venues selected by employees across the UK. 

The hotel's benefits package was particularly well-praised by those who work there - given that it "prioritises the financial wellbeing of employees during the cost of living challenge".

Management at the hotel, which is situated next to Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium, was also praised for enhanced maternity, paternity, parental and adoption leave policies and a strong belief in diversity and inclusion. 

The other five to make up the top six are The Biltmore in Mayfair, Cycas Hospitality (which has 18 locations across the UK), Dalata (which boasts some 1,000 employees), Gleneagles Hotel in Edinburgh and Nobu Hotel in Shoreditch, London. 

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a leading thinktank has said. 

Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap to rise again slightly in October, before falling again in January next year. 

Reacting to the news, Uswitch said the predicted drop was "clearly good news". 

"The future still remains uncertain, and with the price cap changing every three months – currently expected to rise in October before falling slightly in January –  it's crucial not to be complacent," Richard Neudegg, director of regulation, said. 

However, "a predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years", he said. 

He also urged  households who want to lock in rates for price certainty to run a comparison to see what energy tariffs are available to them.

"There are many 12-month fixed tariffs available at rates cheaper than the current price cap, and even some that are 2% below these new predicted July rates," he said. 

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