Italy itineraries: North Italy trips
_main_1693922369982.jpeg "Florence Duomo. Photo: Shutterstock")
Northern Italy is known for its rich culinary heritage, including iconic dishes like risotto, fresh pasta, and delectable cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano. Discover here our expertly crafted Northern Italy itineraries. Whether you are spending weeks or days in this beautiful region, you are sure to love this travel gem.
See more of our Italy itineraries: 5 days - 7 days-10 days - 14 days - South Italy
Itinerary #1: From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy
Northern Italy is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Dive into this comprehensive 16-day Northern Italy adventure and uncover the region's diverse delights.
Itinerary summary
Here’s an overview of this 16-day North Italy itinerary:
Days 1-4: Venice - Arrival, sightseeing, and leisure.
Days 5-6: Milan - Explore the city's cultural wonders.
Days 7-10: Lake Como - Experience lakeside charm.
Days 11-13: Cinque Terre - Discover coastal beauty.
Days 14-15: Florence - Immerse in art and history.
Day 16: Departure from Florence, ending your unforgettable journey.
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Florence Duomo. Photo: Shutterstock
Day One - Arrival in Venice
Your Italian journey kicks off in the enchanting city of Venice. After landing, we'll whisk you away to your cozy hotel in Venice.
Day Two - Sightseeing in Venice
A private guide leads you through the labyrinthine streets of Venice, with highlights including a gondola ride along the iconic canals.
Day Three - Murano and Burano Boat Tour
Hop aboard a boat to the colorful islands of Murano and Burano, known for their glassmaking and lace craftsmanship. Return to Venice for a night of leisure.
Day Four - Free Day in Venice
Today is yours to explore Venice at your own pace. Meander through the charming streets, sip espresso in quaint cafes, or simply soak in the city's unique ambiance.
Day Five - Train to Milan
Embark on a swift 3-hour journey to the fashion capital, Milan. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, either exploring the city independently or partaking in our suggested activities.
Day Six - Sightseeing in Milan
Discover Milan's rich history and vibrant culture on a walking tour that encompasses its historic landmarks.
Day Seven - Train to Lake Como
A short train ride brings you to the stunning shores of Lake Como. Delight in Como's captivating beauty and mild climate.
Day Eight - Lugano and Lakeside Villages
Cross the border to Switzerland and explore the charming lakeside villages, starting with the picturesque Lugano.
Day Nine - Lake Como Boat Tour
Set sail on Lake Como for a guided boat trip, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Day Ten - Free Day in Como
Enjoy a day of leisure in Como, perhaps taking a scenic lakeside stroll or indulging in local cuisine.
Day Eleven - Train to Cinque Terre
Journey to the coastal gem of Cinque Terre, where you'll have the evening to explore at your own pace.
Day Twelve - Exploring Cinque Terre and Beyond by Train
An extensive tour of Cinque Terre awaits, with visits to Riomaggiore, Monterosso, Vernazza, and Manarola.
Day Thirteen - Free Day in Cinque Terre
Another day in Cinque Terre allows you to explore as you wish, whether it's lounging on sandy beaches or hiking scenic trails.
Day Fourteen - On to Pisa and Lucca
Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and the charming Renaissance city of Lucca before transferring to Florence.
Day Fifteen - Sightseeing in Florence
Embark on a private tour of Florence's iconic landmarks, including the magnificent Duomo, historic Piazza della Repubblica, and the famed Ponte Vecchio.
Day Sixteen -Departure from Florence
As your journey draws to a close, we'll ensure a smooth transfer to the airport for your departure.
Manarola in Cinque Terre. Photo: Shutterstock
Itinerary #2: Supercars in the Heart of Northern Italy
Get ready for a thrilling 12-day journey into the world of high-performance sports cars, set against the backdrop of the stunning Italian cities of Bologna and Modena, with captivating visits to Venice and Florence.
Itinerary summary
Here’s an overview of this 12-day North Italy itinerary:
Days 1-2: Venice - Arrival, walking tour & gondola ride.
Days 3-9: Bologna - Lamborghini Factory, Vespa tour, Maserati Museum, Ferrari experience, Pagani factory, and Ducati museum.
Days 10-11: Florence - Walking tour & Uffizi Gallery.
Day 12: Departure from Florence, concluding your incredible journey through Italy.
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Bologna two towers. Photo: Shutterstock
Day One - Arrival in Venice
Your Italian adventure commences with a private water taxi ride to your Venetian hotel.
Day Two - Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
Delve into the charms of Venice with a private walking tour, followed by a quintessential gondola ride through the city's enchanting canals.
Day Three - From Venice to Bologna
Hop on a train to Bologna, where transfers are thoughtfully arranged for your convenience.
Day Four - Lamborghini Factory
Witness the birth of legendary sports cars with a visit to the Lamborghini factory and museum.
Day Five - Vespa Tour on the Bolognese Hills
Experience the thrill of the open road on a small group Vespa tour, exploring the scenic hills outside Bologna.
Day Six - Modena Maserati Museum
Discover the history of Maserati with a visit to their museum in Modena. The day also includes a private walking tour of the city and a delightful wine tasting.
Day Seven - Day at Leisure in Bologna
Enjoy a leisurely day in the gastronomic haven of Bologna, where you an savor delectable Italian cuisine or explore the city's charming streets at your own pace.
Day Eight - Ferrari Experience
Prepare for an exhilarating day dedicated to Ferrari, including a visit to the Enzo Ferrari House Museum, a tour of Maranello town, and a guided exploration of the Ferrari factory and museum. Get behind the wheel and feel the power with a thrilling Ferrari racetrack experience.
Day Nine - Pagani Factory and Ducati Museum
Embark on a journey to the Pagani factory, followed by a delightful lunch in Castelvetro. In the afternoon, explore the world of motorcycles with a visit to the Ducati Museum and Factory.
Day Ten - From Bologna to Florence
Board a short train ride to Florence and spend the day at your leisure, exploring this Renaissance gem at your own pace.
Day Eleven - Florence Walking Tour & Uffizi Gallery
Discover Florence's artistic treasures with a half-day walking tour led by an English-speaking guide, including a visit to the iconic Uffizi Gallery.
Day Twelve - Transfer to the Airport and Departure
Bid farewell to Italy as your private driver ensures a seamless transfer to the airport for your departure.
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Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Photo: Shutterstock
Further reading…
For detailed Italy trip itineraries that bring your dream vacation to life, explore our Insight Guides' expertly crafted plans. Download one now for unforgettable 7-day and 14-day journeys, carefully curated by our Italy guidebook authors.
Itinerary #3: Enchanting Italian Lakes
Set out on an 8-day self-drive adventure through the idyllic lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano, and Maggiore, all while discovering the romantic streets of Verona and Milan.
Itinerary summary
Here’s an overview of this 8-day North Italy itinerary:
Days 1-2: Milan & Lake Garda
Days 3-4: Lake Garda & Verona
Days 5-6: Como & Bellagio
Days 7-8: Lake Lugano, Maggiore & Departure
Milan from rooftop of Duomo. Photo: Shutterstock
Day One - Arrival in Milan
Your Italian escapade begins with the pick-up of your rental car at Milan International Airport. On day one, you'll settle into your Milan hotel and have the freedom to explore this vibrant city at your own pace.
Day Two - Milan City Tour and Lake Garda
Embark on a tour of Milan's iconic sites, commencing at the majestic Castello Sforzesco. After your exploration, hit the road to Lake Garda, with a stop at the charming resort town of Sirmione along the way.
Day Three - Lake Garda Exploration
Day three is dedicated to uncovering the enchanting lakeside towns of Lake Garda, celebrated for their Roman heritage and breathtaking vistas.
Day Four - Verona Walking Tour
Venture to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, for a captivating city tour that will transport you to the pages of Shakespeare.
Day Five - Como and Bellagio Exploration
Embark on a walking tour of Como, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Como. If you wish, catch a boat to Bellagio, another gem adorning the lake's edge.
Day Six - Discovering Lake Lugano
Explore the allure of Lake Lugano, situated between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, and straddling the Swiss-Italian border.
Day Seven - Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands
Delve into the serenity of Stresa, a charming town on Lake Maggiore, and explore the historic beauty of the Borromean Islands.
Day Eight - Departure from Milan
Bid arrivederci to Italy as you return your rental car at Milan International Airport and catch your departure flight.
Want to avoid the travel logistics? Book this trip with our assistance.
Lugano in Switzerland. Photo: Shutterstock
Itinerary #4: Romantic Venice
Savor a charming weekend getaway in Venice, nestled in the heart of Northern Italy. This delightful 4-day excursion promises a captivating walking tour that will immerse you in the city's rich history, art, and architectural wonders.
Itinerary summary
Here’s an overview of thisi 4-day North Italy itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Venice.
Days 2-3: Venice walking tour and exploration.
Day 4: Free day to savor Venice's delights.
Day 5: Departure from Venice, concluding your Venetian adventure
St. Mark's square Venice. Photo: Shutterstock
Day One - Arrival in Venice
Your enchanting journey begins as you touch down at Marco Polo International Airport and are transferred to your hotel. Day one grants you the freedom to explore the enchanting streets of Venice at your own pace.
Day Two - Venice Walking Tour
Embark on a private walking tour, commencing in the Saint Mark's area. Here, you'll delve into the historical tapestry of Venice, once the hub of the mighty Mediterranean maritime empire. The tour unfurls iconic landmarks such as The Doges' Palace, St. Mark's Square, and the Basilica, each a testament to unparalleled beauty and historical significance.
Day Three - Gondola Ride and Exploration
Day three begins with a sumptuous breakfast, followed by a leisurely 30-minute gondola ride through Venice's labyrinthine waterways, allowing you to absorb the city's unique ambiance. The afternoon is yours to wander and discover hidden corners, culminating in a delectable three-course dinner at a centrally located restaurant (beverages not included).
Day Four - Free Day in Venice
Enjoy a day of unfettered exploration, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of Venice, uncovering its delightful secrets.
Day Five - Departure from Venice
Bid adieu to Venice on day five as you check out of your hotel after breakfast. A private transfer will whisk you away to Marco Polo International Airport, leaving you with cherished memories and the longing to return to this mesmerizing destination.
Ensure a carefree vacation - book this hassle-free trip today.
Grand Canal gondola trip in Venice. Photo: Shutterstock
Itinerary #5: Trieste - a combination of hiking and culture
Unearth the authentic essence of Trieste on this immersive 5-day journey through Northern Italy. This experience transcends mere sightseeing, offering a unique perspective from the vantage point of the locals.
Itinerary summary
Here’s an overview of this 5-day North Italy itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Trieste.
Days 2-4: Explore the Karst region, Miramare Castle, Lupica Stud farm, and Rosandra Valley Nature Reserve.
Day 5: Discover the impressive Grotta Gigante before your departure from Trieste.
Trieste. Photo: Shutterstock
Day One - Arrival in Trieste
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the train station or airport. Day one unfolds with a leisurely exploration of the city center, allowing you to soak in the historic streets, lively squares, the enchanting seafront, and the iconic Piazza Unità.
Day Two - From the Karst to Miramare Castle
Day two transports you on a scenic escapade to the Karst plateau. Hop aboard the iconic Opicina tram, ascending to the plateau. Embark on a picturesque walk graced with panoramic views of the city and sea, ultimately leading you to the splendid Miramare Castle Park.
Day Three - Lipica Stud Farm
Day three invites you to discover the serene equestrian park of Lipica, a tranquil oasis and home to the elegant Lipizzan horses. After a guided tour and serene strolls in the estate, venture to the valley of the Blessed Virgin of Lourdes.
Day Four - Rosandra Valley Nature Reserve
Day four commences with a journey to the Rosandra Valley Reserve. Follow in the footsteps of ancient travelers along the salt road, savoring the sights of the Rosandra stream, complete with its waterfall and natural pools.
Day Five - Grotta Gigante
Conclude your remarkable journey on day five with a visit to the awe-inspiring Grotta Gigante, the largest cave in the world. Following your visit, return to the city. Here, after reclaiming any luggage left at your facility's deposit, you can either continue your journey independently or return home.
Rosandra Valley. Photo: Shutterstock
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