The Ultimate 10-Day Northern Italy Travel Itinerary For Adventure

Italy is one of the most stunning places in Europe. This northern Italy travel itinerary will show you the best of Italy with the most popular cities in the north.

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Northern Italy is very different and unique than southern Italy. Northern Italy is full of lakes, cliffs, mountain ranges, and so much more. In comparison, southern Italy has many cities located along the coast with lots of cliff villages and beaches. Both are extremely beautiful in their own ways.

This Northern Italy travel itinerary will take you through the fashion capital of Milan, the luxury of Lake Como, the wine country in Tuscany, the canals of Venice, the mountain ranges in the Dolomites, and so much more.

Northern Italy has so much to offer and so many great experiences from visiting iconic landmarks to indulging in works of amazing art, exploring so much history, taking in the natural beauty, and more. Now, let’s dive into this ultimate northern Italy travel guide.

This post is all about the best northern Italy travel itinerary.

The Ultimate Northern Italy Travel Itinerary

Days 1-2: Milan – The Fashion Capital

Milan is known as the fashion capital of Italy and there are so many things to see and so here. There is no better way to start your northern Italy travel itinerary than in Milan. Start by exploring some of Milan’s iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano. The architecture of this building is spectacular. Head to the top to see the best views in Milan. Next visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a shopping mall, and a architectural wonder. Walk the mosaic floors, take in the iron and glass ceilings, do some shopping at the world’s finest boutiques, and enjoy. After doing some shopping head to the Teatro all Scala which is the world’s most prestigious opera house and check out the museum.

On day 2 in Milan explore some unique art and culture throughout the city. First, go visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie which is home to the famous painting The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Next, go to the amazing Pinacoteca di Brera which is one of Milan’s best art museums. Here you can see art from Italian artists like Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. After spending the morning exploring art and history it is time to do some shopping at the Fashion Quadrilateral in Milan which has many high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Armani, Chanel, and many more. For the evening head to the Navigli District for a great nightlife experience. The Navigli District has many trendy and hip bars, restaurants, and cafes.

For more information on Milan check out the blog post “THINGS TO DO IN MILAN ALONE: THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE“.

Where To Stay In Milan

Milan is a beautiful city and there are so many wonderful places to stay. A great place to stay in Milan is Castello Guest House Milano. This guest house is located in the center of Milan and has amazing city views, and also daily housekeeping, It is just a 10-minute walk from the Milan Cathedral, the perfect area for shopping, food, drinks, walking, and sightseeing.

Stay at the NYX Hotel Milan by Leonardo Hotels. This hotel is located in the fashion district. it has a fantastic restaurant and lounge bar. The rooms are very clean and the staff is amazing.

Another great place to stay in Milan is BB Hotels Smarthotel Duomo. This hotel is located in Milan’s city center and has great cozy and comfortable rooms for a great price.

Days 3-4: Lake Como – Italy’s Most Scenic Lake

The next stop on your northern Italy travel itinerary is the beautiful Lake Como. Lake Como is Italy’s best enchanting lakeside retreat that is full of nature and luxury. No better way to spend day 3 than exploring the finest little towns throughout Lake Como. Some of the most stunning towns to visit in Lake Como are Bellagio which has beautiful streets, lakeside views, and majestic villas. Varenna, has beautiful colorful houses, a beautiful harbor, and many lush gardens. And Tremezzo, which is known for its Villa Carlotta with stunning lush gardens and beautiful sculptures.

On day 4 of this amazing northern Italy travel guide, you need to enjoy some must-do activities in Lake Como like a scenic boat ride. Explore the lake and the crystal clear water while taking in the stunning picturesque towns from the center. Next, visit the famous Villa Balbianello. Made famous from the Star Wars and James Bond movies this villa has wonderful manicured gardens and stunning lake views. Check out the Artisan Shops in Lake Como and do some shopping before heading to dinner at one of Lake Como’s delicious restaurants. La Punta in Bellagio, and Locanda La Tirlindana in Sala Comacina both are great restaurants that are right on the lake and have stunning lakeside views. Finally, enjoy the Brunate Cable Car for amazing views of Lake Como.

Where To Stay In Lake Como

This apartment Near Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio is a great place to stay to get the truly authentic experience of Lake Como. This amazing property has a terrace where you can enjoy the mountain and lake views and is located in a perfect spot with access to hiking trails.

Days 5-6: Florence – The Best Of Renaissance

On day 5 head to Florence to experience one-of-a-kind art and culture. First, explore Florence’s iconic cathedral Duomo di Firenze. The iconic dome and the bell tower Campanile di Giotto for the best panoramic views of Florence. Then head to the Uffizi Gallery where you can explore some must-see art in Florence. See works from Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. Finish the day by heading to the one-of-a-kind Ponte Vecchio bridge. This historic bridge is filled with jewelry boutiques and other little shops. Stunning to see at sunset. Walk the bridge and take in the views of the Arno River.

On the next day head to the Accademia Gallery where you can explore some more famous artworks like the David statue by Michaelangelo. This museum houses many Renaissance artworks that are amazing. Explore the popular piazzas of Piazza della Signoria and Piazza della Michelangelo to experience the true culture of Florence. Florence is also known for its one-of-a-kid leather markets. Finish off the day by doing some leather shopping at the markets. For dinner enjoy a delicious Florentine steak at Trattoria Mario followed by some gelato by the Arno River.

For a more in-depth review of Florence check out the post “9 THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE OFF THE BEATEN PATH“.

Where To Stay In Florence

There are so many great places to stay in Florence. One of these places is the Florence Feel Apartment. This luxurious apartment offers a kitchenette, washing machine, safety deposit box, and wifi, and is also located right in the center of Florence. This is an excellent apartment accommodation in the city.

Another great place to stay in Florence is the Hotel Leonardo da Vinci. This hotel has classic rooms, a buffet-style American breakfast, and also has a great location.

Day 7: Tuscany – Rolling Hills and Amazing Vineyards

A great day trip from Florence is Tuscany, the ultimate wine region. Just 20 minutes from Florence is Tuscany which is home to over 400 wineries and is known as one of the most famous wine regions in Europe. Spend a day in the main regions of Tuscany like Chianti, Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano. The most famous wine region is the Chianti Classico Region where you can enjoy a Chianti wine tasting tour and relax. You can also try a cooking class in Tuscany for a truly unique experience.

Where To Stay In Tuscany

A good place to stay in Tuscany, Italy is T he Hotel Certaldo which includes breakfast and is located right in the center of the town. There is also a beautiful pool for guests to use and also has a terrace and fitness center. The Hotel Certlado is located within walking distance of the train station.

Day 8: Verona – The City of Romance

On day 8 of your northern Italy travel itinerary visit Verona. Verona, Italy is a medieval old romantic town that is famous for the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet play. The Casa di Giulietta also known as Juliet’s House is the residence of the balcony overlooking a small courtyard from the play. The Piazza Bra is one of the city’s squares where you can see gardens, and historical landmarks, and enjoy cafes. The Piazza delle Erbe is the other main square that has shopping and more terraces and cafes. Walk the Via Mazzini which is the marble street that connects the two main piazzas.

Other major attractions in Verona are the Verona Arena which is a huge amphitheater that still has shows at night and during the day you can explore the architecture for a small fee. Also, check out the Ponte Pietra which is a beautiful bridge across Verona. The Agiage River has stunning views of the Ponte Pietra bridge. And Lamberti’s Tower to see the best panoramic views of Verona.

For more unique places in Italy see the blog post “21 HIDDEN GEMS IN ITALY: UNIQUE PLACES OFF THE BEATEN PATH“.

Where To Stay In Verona

There are a few options for accommodations in Verona. One is the Palazzo di Giulietta – Royal Welcome which is a guest house that is within walking distance from the city center and the Verona Arena. Another great accommodation option is the Verona Journeys Apartment which is also located in the city center.

Day 9: Venice – The Floating City

For your 9th day of the best northern Italy itinerary head to Venice. This one-of-a-kind city is surrounded by canals. The main transportation is by boat through the canals. The Venice Grand Canal is one of the largest canals in Venice and also one of the most famous canals. It separates one half of Venice from the other. Along the canal you will see beautiful buildings and amazing architecture, there are also lots of boats and gondolas always going through the canal.

Visit some of the top attractions in Venice like St. Mark’s Basilica which is the famous cathedral and amazing piece of architecture, Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge and Market, which is the oldest bridge in Venice. Explore the iconic Grand Canal to see Venice’s famous palazzos and landmarks. Also, take a gondola ride through the canals. This is truly a magical and amazing experience. Finish your day by having dinner at a popular restaurant like Trattoria Al Gatto Nero or Osteria Al Testiere. After dinner enjoy some souvenir shopping at the Rialto Market.

For more information on famous things to see in Italy check out the blog post “THE MOST FAMOUS THINGS IN ITALY YOU NEED TO SEE WHEN VISITING“.

Where To Stay In Venice

Venice is a small town and doesn’t have too many places for visitors to stay. The most popular place would be the Generator Hostel. It has many locations all over Europe but the Generator Hostel in Venice, Italy is one of the best hostels in Europe for adults. With clean, classy, and sophisticated rooms you can choose if you would like a shared room or a private room. Also on site is a beautiful cafe with wifi and a bar with views of the Grand Canal.

Day 10: The Dolomites – Alpine Peaks And Scenic Adventures

The perfect way to end your northern Italy travel itinerary is by visiting the beautiful Dolomites. The Dolomites is a mountain range located in northern Italy and is famous for its cute little villages, its snow-capped mountain tops, and its great place to enjoy nature and adventure. Some of the best attractions in the Dolomites are Tre Cime di Lavaredo which is the iconic 3 peaks of the mountains, you can explore these on stunning hikes. The Lago di Braies, which is known as the Pearl of the Dolomites, with its stunning lake with turquoise waters that is surrounded by a lush forest. Also, the Alpe di Siusi also known as Seiser Alm, is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, the most stunning views from this area and some of the best hikes in this area as well.

The Dolomites are famous for their skiing and snowboarding hills. But there are many other adventurous activities to enjoy here as well like hiking, cycling, walking the likes, enjoying spa retreats, and so much more.

Where To Stay In The Dolomites

Hotel Vil la Madruzzo is a great hotel to stay in while in the Dolomites. It is located in Trento and very close to the city center and also has breakfast included. This hotel offers many amenities for guests and the staff can help you with transportation, tours, passes for attractions, dining options, and much more.