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Northern Italy by Train Itinerary: Where to Go + How to do it + Info

by Drifter Planet | Jan 29, 2020 | Italy , Most Popular Blog Posts

An epic Northern Italy Itinerary that has everything – lakes, mountains, historical towns,

Italy has always been the centre of attention because of its beauty and culture. Year after year, it ranks in the top 10 as one of the most visited countries in the world . Italy is where you can really experience it all – the best food, beaches , mountains, canals, art, architecture, luxury cars, and history. Can you believe Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage sites in the world?

Italy’s amazingness isn’t just due to its rich culture or fascinating history, or even the scenic beauty. It is more than that.

It is about experiencing the mediterranean climate, the joy of sitting on a chair along the street in one of the cafes while sipping espresso, tasting the simplicity of food that’s cooked with just 3-5 ingredients, seeing the locals communicate with energetic gestures and listening to the musical sound of Italian chatter. 

An outdoor restaurant in Tuscany, Italy – CC0 by Nina Evensen from Pixabay

If you look at the map of Italy, you will notice the country is shaped like a boot. It is surrounded by water on almost all sides, except the top of the boot. As you go down from the top of the boot to the toe, you will see how the landscape changes from mountains and alpine lakes, to vineyards, and to the beaches. 

Broadly speaking, the regions can be divided into the below sections, and in brackets are the most famous destinations of the regions so that you can get an idea – 

• Northeast Italy, (the Dolomites, Trentino , Venice, and Bologna) 
• Northwest Italy, (Cinque Terre, Milan, and the Alps)
• Central Italy, (Tuscany region and Rome)
• Southern Italy, (Naples, Puglia , Amalfi , and Capri)
• The islands – Sicily and Sardinia.

Each region of Italy offers something completely unique, and there is so much to experience in this incredibly exciting country. You don’t even need to go to the most popular destinations to enjoy the beauty of Italy. 

Beautiful village Tavon in Val di Non , Coredo, Italy

Even if you’re in one of the most unknown towns that doesn’t have a single person who speaks English, you will have an incredible time. Italians have a skill of communicating well with their exaggerated hand gestures, so language isn’t usually a barrier.

Moreover, almost all the towns have pretty streets and lovely town squares with something historic. Most of the city centre also have a free water fountain where you can fill up your bottles.

No doubt all the regions of Italy have something to offer, but the north of Italy is where you will find many of the country’s famous destinations and that’s what this post is all about. Yes, I’m talking about the Lake Como, the Renaissance city of Florence, the canals of Venice, Cinque Terre’s colorful coastline, the majestic Dolomites and the fashionable Milan. 

You can travel internally in the North of Italy in many ways but getting around by road is the best option to experience the natural beauty. 

In particular, getting around by rail is easy and convenient. You can sit back and relax as you gaze out from your window and see the beauty of the country. This is why rail holidays to Italy are super popular . They are relaxing, and luxurious and can provide you a good value for money.

Another option is to arrive in Italy by air and rent a car from the airport. You can check and compare the car rental prices here from many different car rental companies.

Northern Italian Train Destinations + Itinerary

Northern Italy has an amazingly extensive train network that connect many of the country’s top destinations. We have made a train itinerary for you that can be shortened or lengthened based on your preferences. You can start this itinerary from top to bottom – Venice to Rome , or the other way round from Rome to Venice. 

The below map is just a very broad depiction of this route map. At this time Google Maps doesn’t let users create a route map with multiple train stops and this is why I have selected a driving map to give you a general idea.

We have mentioned 5 main parts of Northern Italy and optional destinations around those parts that are worth visiting. For instance, if you’re more into art or history and are super short of time, then you can just do Venice, Florence, and end your trip in Rome. However, we suggest you do a mix of both – the big cities and smaller towns so that you can experience Italy’s true natural beauty.

Here are some of the places that you can visit on a rail itinerary in this part of the country. 

Venice (Optional: Trento, Lago di Grada, Lago di Braies) – 3 – 4 Days

Grand Canal in Venice – Northern Italy by Train – CCO via Pixabay

When thinking of Italy, Venice is always one of the first destinations that spring to mind. This floating city is known for its network of canals and bridges. Because of its geographical placement, it is the perfect way to start (or end) your Italy by train itinerary. You can explore the northeastern and northwestern parts of Italy very easily with your starting point as Venice. 

Being a major tourist destination, Venice is well connected by train routes. In fact, the easiest way to reach this city surrounded by water is by train, and you can take one from Austria, Slovenia or Germany. You can also arrive here on a ferry from Pula in Croatia . Or, you can just fly to Venice airport to start your Italy train trip. 

A bridge over a pretty canal in Venice, Italy – CCO – by travelspot via Pixabay

Forget about cars here – Venice is all about getting around via boat. There really is no place in the world quite like Venice, and it should definitely be added to any Italian travel itinerary. 

Besides the beautiful canals and gondolas, Venice is also known for many famous landmarks and attractions.  These include the Doges Palace, St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Campanile di San Marco, and many more. The buzz and energy experienced when walking around Venice is unlike any other city. After you spend around 2 days in Venice , then consider getting out to see the mountains.

Lago di Braies or The Pragser Wildsee, North Italy – CC0 by vaiunruh via Pixabay

Venice can is a good starting point for you to see Italy’s mountains to see the Lake Grada or Lake Braies or the Dolomites. You can start off in Venice, head to Lake Grada (stations are Desenzano del Garda / Sirmione). If you have more time on your hands, then you can extend this part of your trip to experience the scenic towns around Lake Garda . Or go further up to Trentino.

If you’d like to see the Dolomites, then we suggest you take a train to Trento and consider going further up north to experience the Trentino region. You can include places like Val di Non , the spectacular lesser known Lake Tovel and also Alpe Cimbra . This part of Italy has some of the best lakes in Europe . We actually drove here from Venice with our rental car in 2018 and loved it.

Lake Como ( Optional Lake Orta & Milan) – 2 Days

The lovely Lake Como in Italy – CC0 – by EzPzPics via Pixabay

Italy has some amazing lakes and you can find the most famous ones in the north. These lakes are big, beautiful with the perfect alpine backdrops. They have been attracting travelers for many years.

Thanks to their stunning natural scenery, pretty lakeside towns, ancient villas, perfect gardens, and 19th-century hotels, a holiday along the Italian lakes is all about a luxurious and laid back experience. In the last part we spoke about Lake Grada and Lake Tovel, that are in Trentino region but here we will tell you how to visit Lake Como and Lake Orta.

Don’t let Italy’s more famous destinations like Rome and Venice make you leave out Lake Como in your itinerary. Lake Como (or Lago di Como) is awesome and it will make you fall in love with Italy.

Stay for a few days in one of the little towns along Lake Como and you wouldn’t want to leave. Remember the idyllic Naboo from Star Wars II Attack of the Clones ? It was filmed along Lake Como. 

Varenna, Lake Como, Northern Italy by Train itinerary – CCO Image by travelspot via Pixabay

Lake Como is the most well known of the lakes in Italy. This enormous body of water is speckled with the most charming towns, speedboats, grand hotels, and phenomenal views. This far northern part of Italy is very close to Switzerland, so it offers a completely different atmosphere altogether. 

Lake Como has a shape of an inverted “Y”, so the legs are towards the south. The most scenic villages along Lake Como are up in the north because of the mountains.

Lake Orta, Italy by train – CC0 by Fabio Valeggia via Pixabay

If you would like to experience the magnificent lakes, then taking a rail holiday is one of the best ways to do it. You can experience the Lake Como by taking a train to Como Nord Lago, Como Nord Borghi or Como San Giovanni . You can extend this part of your trip to also visit the Lake Orta by taking a train to Pettenasco .

Depending on your route, you may have to stop at Milan or change trains here. Why not stay for a day in Milan and experience the country’s fashion capital?

The Cinque Terre (Optional Turin) – 3 Days

The colorful houses of Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy – CCO by heidi_ziller via Pixabay

The Cinque Terre is one of the most impressive coastal destinations in Italy. This stretch of scenic coastline is dotted with five of the most magnificent little towns in Italy. These are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso. Out of all these towns, Manarola is the one that you see on most of the pictures. 

Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre – CC0 by Zotx via Pixabay

The Cinque Terre is best known for its beach, harbors, hiking trails, local wines, and perfect pastel-coloured villages. There are no cars in the Cinque Terre, and each town is connected via train. This makes rail travel the best way of reaching this area. If you are planning a railway itinerary in northern Italy, including a stop at the Cinque Terre is easy.

Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre – Northern Italy by train – CC0 by Felix Wolf from Pixabay

From Milan or Como Nord Lago train stations, you can head to Turin. Either stay here or get on a train to Rapallo . From Rapallo, you can take a ferry to experience the Cinque Terre villages. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Rapallo to Monterosso .

Another option is to take a train directly from Germany to Cinque Terry by travel via the Rhine Gorge and Gotthard Pass to experience the best of Cinque Terre. 

Florence, Tuscany (Optional Umbria) 3 – 5 Days 

Sunset in Florence, Tuscany, Italy – CC0 by Mark Gilder via Pixabay

Tuscany and Umbria are two Italian regions that cover some of the most attractive sights and points of interest in the country. Did you know that the Renaissance art movement started from Italy? It happened right here in Tuscany.

Both Tuscany and Umbria form a part of Italy is that’s very green. In fact, Umbria is also called the “green heart of Italy”, so you will get to experience the nature, the history and the art scene in Tuscany and Florence together.

The real beauty of this area is outside the cities and town – that’s where you will get the typical picture postcards style landscapes.

Tuscany’s famous rolling hills – Italy by train – CCO by monica_valladares from Pixabay

Nestled in the rolling green hills and scenic landscapes of these areas, you will find cities like Florence, Siena, Assisi, Pisa, and Perugia. Between the art, food, wine, history, and natural beauty – there are so many things to experience around here. 

Suggested: Visit Lecc e, the Florance of South Italy [Puglia]

These regions are conveniently located, being within easy reach of major cities. This makes a train journey around these regions very easy.  To experience this region by train, you need to arrive in either Perugia (for Umbria) or Florence (for Tuscany).

Tavernelle – Perugia – Umbria, Italy

If you’re arriving here from the Monterosso or Rapallo train stations because you were visiting the Cinque Terre, then you can take a train directly to Lucca , make a quick side trip to see the leaning tower of Pisa and then head to Florence – a city where it all began.   To experience the best of Tuscany, you can stay for a few days in Florence and then take a train to Siena to explore the Chianti vineyards . You may want to read this Florence travel guide to gather more information about this legendary destination.  

If you have some time on your hand then you can visit Umbria right after Tuscany. From Siena, you can enter the Umbria region by taking a train to Perugia and head to Assisi and Spoleto from there. You can also make a trip to Lake Lucerne or visit Capri from Florence. If you don’t want to spend too much time in Tuscany, you can just visit Florence for a quick visit from Rome.

Rome (Optional Castel di Tora or Naples, Pompeii ) – 2 Days

The bejeweled Rome in Italy – CC0 by Nimrod Oren via Pixabay

Rome is Italy’s capital and most well-loved destination. I fell in love with Rome and I was overwhelmed by its beauty. I have written a 5-day itinerary for Rome , check it out.

This ancient city has so much going on, and any holiday to the country should definitely include a stop here. Every single thing in Rome has a history, even a bench along the street.

Rome is characterized by its world-famous landmarks and history , delicious cuisine, vibrant streets, and architectural beauty.

Wherever you walk in this city, you will be faced with postcard-perfect scenes.  With its renowned museums, churches, Colosseum, Vatican City, piazzas, fountains, and more, Rome offers the ultimate Italian experience.

Being the capital city, Rome is very well-connected and easy to travel to. 

Even the streets in Rome are lovely – CC0 by djedj via Pixabay

While in Rome, you can also easily visit the Vatican City. You don’t even have to make a day trip because it is right there.

Just 50 KMs away from Rome is the stunning Castel di Tora along the Turano Lake. It is a medieval village with lovely narrow streets and stunning viewpoints. The best part is that it is next to the water. Include Castel di Tora in your itinerary if you have a little more time in Rome and you’d like to get away from the maddening crowds.

Rome is also a good starting point to see Northern Italy if you want to start this itinerary from reverse, that is, from south to north. Start at Rome, head to Perugia, then Florence, then to Bologna and finally Venice. You can also alter this route by heading to the Cinque Terre villages at the end instead. Rome can be a part of many different kinds of train itineraries and you can also consider starting in Switzerland.

In case you want to take a peek at the gems of southern Italy, then you will be happy to know that they’re not far from Rome. It will take you just 3 hours to reach Naples and the Pompeii ruins.

Northern Italy Train Travel

The destinations above are some of the most popular stopping grounds in northern Italy. However, you can still customize your trip by adding stops at places like Milan, Bologna, San Gimignano, Verona, and Trentino.  Starting your trip in either Venice or Rome, and traveling between these destinations is easy to do. 

Final Thoughts about Northern Italy by Train Itinerary

If you are planning to explore Italy, then getting around by train is one of the best ways to do it. Italian rail holidays are convenient, and they offer fantastic views and experiences along the way. Traveling by train in Italy is quick and comfortable so it makes a lot of sense. The northern Italy is full of incredible places to visit and varied regions. Visiting some of the above mentioned destinations will give you an excellent taste of Italy that you will remember for life.

Did follow our Northern Italy itinerary?

Tag  @drifterplanet  on Instagram and hashtag it  #drifterplanet . We will be happy to share your journey with our audience.

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Related Posts:

The Pragser Wildsee is stunning! Would love to visit it. So many other beautiful places in Northern Italy!

Oh wow, I had no idea that the train connections in northern Italy are well developed. I love traveling by train and haven’t seen these lakes yet 😏

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Last Updated on July 17, 2024 by Drifter Planet

Northern Italy Train Itinerary: 14 Days By Rail

Seeing Italy by train is the trip of a lifetime. On this Northern Italy train itinerary we give you all the tips you need to plan an exciting and successful trip though one of our favorite parts of the country.

• 1 When Should I Visit Northern Italy?
• 2 What Is The Most Beautiful City In Northern Italy?
• 3 Why Should I Choose The Train Over Other Modes Of Transportation?
• 4 How Long Should I Spend In Northern Italy?
• 5.10 Day 10
• 5.11 Day 11
• 5.12 Day 12
• 5.13 Day 13
• 5.14 Day 14

When Should I Visit Northern Italy?

I recommend planning your Northern Italy Train Itinerary in the fall or spring. If possible, you should avoid straight up summer or winter. July and August are hot and muggy, not a good combination for walking in cities and villages. In addition, July is the month when Italy has the most visitors, and the crowds are often difficult to navigate.

Late August is the time many Italians will take vacation, causing many businesses and restaurants to be completely closed during the last two weeks of the month. Winter, or generally the months of November through March, can be cold and therefore not as enjoyable for walking and exploring. Also during winter, many places shorten their hours or close altogether.

The perfect time to plan your Northern Italy Train Itinerary is from April to June or in September or October. The weather is generally mild and perfect for walking around. The crowds are typically not as bad as in July and early August.

What Is The Most Beautiful City In Northern Italy?

What a question! The most beautiful city in Northern Italy is perhaps a matter of opinion. In my experience, Venice and Florence are both high on the list. If I were to choose Venice, it would be because of the canals and gondolas. However, of these two, Florence is my top pick. The rich culture and history packed into a smaller space give Florence a cozy feeling for me, adding to its beauty.

The lack of public transportation and fewer vehicles give a nod to a time gone by. Of course, there are countless other cities, villages, and towns to choose from in Northern Italy. Any of them could win the prize for being the most beautiful on any given day. That is why I suggest planning your Northern Italy Train Itinerary to see as many of them as possible.

Why Should I Choose The Train Over Other Modes Of Transportation?

Train travel in Italy is really the way to go. You will enjoy seeing the countryside as you travel from each place to the next. The excitement of going to a new city makes the train ride even more enjoyable. Not to mention, you will have a chance to relax a bit and unwind as the train moves along.

The train seats are quite comfortable, and someone else is in charge of getting you to your destination. It is possible to see most, if not all, of the places you want to see without driving or flying simply by using the rail system. In regards to rail systems, I suggest sticking with Trenitalia, as it has more options than Italo.

When purchasing tickets, Italiarail can be a helpful service to use . It is a more user friendly way to book trains on Trenitalia. You may want to check into the Italiapass, offered by Italiarail. I have not purchased it, as we were only visiting three cities by train during our visit, but it is worth checking out. It also includes entrance into the Italiarail lounge while you wait at train stations. For more details on purchasing tickets, visit our How To Buy Train Tickets In Italy post.

How Long Should I Spend In Northern Italy?

If you have a month or longer to devote to a northern Italy train itinerary, you will not run out of train stops or things to do. However, most of us are not able to spend that long on a train trip. To see a good sampling of northern Italy, I suggest a fourteen day itinerary. However, if you have more time available, I highly recommend visiting some smaller towns and villages in between the cities on this itinerary. If you are looking for a suggestion of cities in the entire country of Italy to visit by train, check out our Best Cities To Visit In Italy By Train post.

Fourteen Day Northern Italy Train Itinerary

Begin your Northern Italy Train Itinerary in Florence. You can easily make it everywhere in Florence by walking, but public transportation is available if you need it. Take the time to purchase the Firenze card right away. Check online for details. The card lasts for 72 hours, but you can reload it when you return to Florence at the end of this itinerary. I suggest buying the card at The Bargello, and, while you are there, spend some time taking in Donatello’s David, the competition pieces for the Baptistery (Ghiberti won the contest, by the way!), and more.

Find some lunch at one of the restaurants on the Piazza della Signoria (I suggest Osteria dell’Orcagna). After lunch, go to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome and then explore the city. Be sure to make it to the Ponte Vecchio, the famous bridge. Buy souvenirs from shops along the way so you can relive your trip when you get home. Dinner tonight will be at Gustapizza, known to many as the best pizza in Florence. It is probably a good idea to get gelato before going in for the night.

Start the day with some caffe, and then head to The Accademia. There is plenty to see there, but, of course, Michelangelo’s David is the highlight. As you turn the corner and see the David for the first time, it will take your breath away to think of the hours of work and attention to detail. Don’t miss Michelangelo’s unfinished works as you walk towards the David. Head to The Central Market for lunch and maybe a little shopping. After lunch, explore some chapels. My personal favorite to visit is The Medici Chapel.

I found it fascinating that it is dark and sinister, just like The Medicis. My husband and I like to read about a destination before we visit. He reads non-fiction and shares all of his newly learned facts with me. I lean towards historical fiction, and I had read two novels about The Medici before we went.

I loved seeing the places I had experienced in the books I read. For dinner tonight, befriend a shop owner or gelato server (because you probably should get gelato again today) and ask your new friend where he or she likes to eat. We always do this, and we have found some of our favorite restaurants this way.

Wake up slowly today and have a leisurely breakfast or brunch. Take the train to Venice which will take about two and a half hours. Remember, you are returning to Florence at the end of the Northern Italy Train Itinerary, so, during your train ride, you could make note of anything you would still like to visit or perhaps revisit in Florence. When you arrive in Venice, take some time to get settled and then make your way towards The Rialto Bridge. Walking is the primary mode of transportation in Venice.

When you are at The Rialto, you will also be close to Doge’s Palace, The Bridge of Sighs (fascinating to read about!), and St. Mark’s Square and Basilica. Enjoy some gelato while sitting in St. Mark’s Square watching all of the people. Do some shopping all along the way. I highly suggest Rivoaltus Legatoria, a family-owned leather shop on The Rialto Bridge.

My husband bought more leather journals than he will ever fill, and we do not regret it a bit. For dinner tonight, enjoy Ristorante Florida Venezia. Eat outside, and you will have a beautiful view of The Rialto Bridge.

Enjoy some caffe and perhaps a pastry before you begin your day. Take a boat to Murano to see the famous Murano glass. You can choose to take a private boat or The Public Vaporetto (water taxi). Have lunch in Murano and then return to Venice after lunch.

This afternoon, take a gondola ride. You can book this ahead of time or simply make your way to a gondola stand and wait in line. Once again, I suggest finding a dinner idea from a shop owner or your gondolier. You will not be disappointed.

Before you leave Venice today, get pizza for lunch at Antico Forno. It may be standing room only, but it’s worth it! Board the train from Venice to Verona. It will take between an hour and an hour and a half to get there. Once again, walking is the main way of getting around this city, but there are city busses available. Another good option is the hop on hop off bus for tourists. While we have not used the hop on hop off bus in Verona, we have taken advantage of it in several other cities, and we are always pleased.

The Verona card is available and offers skipping the line at popular destinations, entrance to many places, and use of the city busses for free. It certainly is worth checking out! When you arrive in Verona, head to the Piazza Bra, a square with outdoor cafes and plenty of people watching. On one side of the the piazza is The Verona Arena, a must-see in Verona. It dates back to the 1st century, making it older than The Colosseum in Rome. It is still used for operas and concerts. Take plenty of time to see the Arena. Next, check out Castelvecchio, a castle, now museum. Choose a restaurant on the Piazza for dinner.

Wake up a bit early this morning and, after some caffe, head to Juliet’s House. It can get crowded if you go later. Of course, there is no real connection to Shakespeare’s play, as Juliet is a fictional character, but the balcony is a great photo opportunity for tourists.

The courtyard is also fun with a statue of Juliet and a wall of love notes. Next, visit the Piazza della Erbe, a busy square with shopping and restaurants and the Torre deli Lamberti (Lamberti Bell Tower) which you can go up in by steps or a glass lift. Nearby, the quieter Piazza die Signori is a nice spot to sit and relax. It boasts a statue of the Italian poet Dante as well as the Tombs of the Scaliger family who ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries.

I suggest pizza for lunch at nearby Pizzeria Du de Cope. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring or maybe head back and rest a bit after a busy few days. For dinner, visit Osteria del Bugiardo, also near Piazza della Erbe.

Today, visit the Verona Cathedral, or Duomo Santa Maria Matricolare. Inside, you will find beauty everywhere, including frescoes and the famous painting “The Assumption of The Virgin” by Titian. Outside the cathedral, it’s just a short walk to the Ponte Pietra. Before crossing the bridge, you may want to also take in The Basilica di Santa Anastasia.

The Ponte Pietra, over the Adige River, is simply gorgeous. Take a lot of photos!! After crossing the bridge, head to The Roman Theatre. This theatre, built in the 1st century BC, is even older than the Verona Arena. Only parts of the theatre remain, but its rich history and culture cannot help but draw you in.

Come back across the bridge and take a short walk to Osteria Dogana Vecia for lunch. Spend this last afternoon in Verona shopping and visiting any spots you haven’t yet seen but want to. True to form, I suggest asking a local for his or her suggestion for dinner.

Ride the train today from Verona to Milan, a nearly two hour ride. You will be staying in Milan just one night before leaving for Lake Como. However, you will return to Milan for some more sightseeing after your visit to Lake Como. You will arrive in Milan at the Milano Central train station. I suggest staying near the train station tonight and eating somewhere close by.

At the Milano Central train station, take the train to Lake Como. It will take less than an hour to get there. Como is the main town on the shore of the lake, but there are other small towns as well. I recommend researching the choices for accommodations and choosing one that fits your travel personality.

Getting around Lake Como is easy, whether by boat or bus. Take boats and ferries whenever possible. In Como, just as with any town around the lake, you could easily spend your time walking along the lakeshore or simply taking in the view while enjoying some caffe or gelato. However, I will give you some things to do in case you decide to explore. First, in Como, visit the Piazza Duomo and the Como Cathedral. The Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic style architecture. As you are exploring, choose a lunch spot along the way.

The Como-Brunate Funicular is a unique experience and one I suggest. This steep ride up an incline will take you to some shops and sights, but most people simply appreciate the view of Lake Como from the top. You may also want to check out the many villas in Como. For dinner tonight, go to Trattoria La Costa, a family-owned restaurant where you will find authentic Italian fare.

Choose some other small towns to visit along the lakeshore today. Some popular destinations are Bellagio, Nesso, Menaggio, and others. Belaggio will likely be the most crowded with tourists, so you may want to choose it or avoid it, depending on your preferences. If you do get to Belaggio, I suggest finding Ristorante Bilacus, a great spot for a meal. No matter which little towns you include in your day, the boat rides and the views will be a highlights of your day.

Board the train and head back to Milan today. Milan is an easy city to see by walking, but public transportation is also available. Begin your time in Milan by seeing the Brea District, known as the artistic area of the city. You will find an art gallery, library, gardens, the beautiful Santa Maria del Carmine church, and much more.

For lunch, head to Luini and try a panzerotti, similar to a calzone. Yum! After lunch, visit the Scala Opera House and the Duomo di Milano, or Milan Cathedral. It is worth booking a ticket online to go inside the Duomo and up to the rooftop. The views of the city are incredible. Next, head to Castle Sforzesco.

You can explore the grounds at no cost or pay to go inside. Then, make your way to the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This is where you can see DaVinci’s famous painting, “The Last Supper”. I highly recommend getting tickets or booking a guided tour ahead of time. Have dinner at Stendhal Milano.

A visit to Milan would not be complete without some shopping. Whether or not shopping is your thing, it simply must be included on your itinerary. Start in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest shopping mall in Italy that is still open for business. Next, visit Quadrilatero d’Oro and Corso Vittoria Emanuele II.

Have lunch along the way as you carry your many purchases (or few purchases, as the case may be). Tonight, have dinner at Berberé, if you’re feeling like pizza, or at Trattoria Mirta, if you’re wanting something a little fancier.

Today, take the train from Milan back to Florence, where we will wind down this Northern Italy Train Itinerary. The train ride will take about two hours. When you arrive in Florence, choose a spot for lunch, and then visit The Uffizi Gallery. There is so much famous artwork to see in The Uffizi. I recommend taking advantage of an audio guide to direct you as you take it all in. Have dinner at Del Fagioli, a family-owned cozy spot.

On this last day of your Northern Italy Train Itinerary, the plans are up to you. Perhaps you still have some shopping to do before your visit ends. Alternatively, you could spend the whole day visiting churches and basilicas. Be sure to include the Basilica of Santa Croce where you can see the tombs of Dante, Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and others.

I would also enjoy a day in Florence people-watching on the Piazza della Signoria and strolling the streets. End your day at Da Ruggero. This small, traditional restaurant is off the beaten path, but it’s worth the trek. Da Ruggero is the perfect ending to your fourteen day Northern Italy Train Itinerary.

Jennifer Wood

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Northern Italy by train: 2-week itinerary

In this 2-week Northern Italy by train itinerary, you’ll visit the most beautiful cities and you’ll see some scenic landscapes in Northern Italy.

How do you get to Northern Italy?

If you don’t want to travel to Italy by car, there are two options: by train or by plane.

Taking the train to Italy

This Northern Italy itinerary starts in Milan and this city has several major train stations. Milan is very accessible by train from most European cities. You’ll probably arrive at either Milano Porta Garibaldi station or Milano Centrale station. Depending on where you’re traveling from, the journey can be quite long. For example, from Utrecht (The Netherlands) the journey takes about 12 to 14 hours and you have to change trains several times.

Depending on your departure station, you travel to Milan via Germany or France (with a transfer in Paris). Check Rail Europe for your travel schedule and to order international train tickets.

By airplane

Do you think the train journey is too long? Then you can always take a plane to Milan. From all over Europe, there are daily flights to Milan. Milan has several airports and a return ticket is usually not that expensive. Check Skyscanner to compare prices and book the cheapest plane ticket to Milan.

Northern Italy by train: the itinerary

Do you have about two weeks for your trip to Northern Italy by train? Then this is a great itinerary:

Day 1 to 4: Milan

Milan is one of the largest cities in Italy and you can enjoy yourself here for a few days. Visit the impressive Duomo, view The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci, and discover the most impressive shopping street in Europe: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.

From Milan, you can also go on a couple of great day trips by train:

• Bergamo : a beautiful old city center on a hill.
• Lake Como : beautiful views, hiking trails, and beautiful villas.

Where to stay in Milan

• Hostel: Babila Hostel & Bistrot – cozy hostel in the center of Milan.
• Hotel: B&B Hotel Milano Central Station – a beautiful hotel in a pleasant neighborhood, near Milan Central Station.

Day 5 to 7: Cinque Terre

From Milan, you travel by train to La Spezia in about three hours. There is not much to do in La Spezia itself, but it is the perfect base to visit the Cinque Terre National Park . This park consists of five beautiful small villages along an impressive coastline. You can visit the villages by train or go hiking between the villages.

Where to stay in La Spezia

• Hostel: Grand Hostel Manin – great hostel with a communal kitchen.
• Hotel: The Poet Hotel – modern decorated and cozy hotel.

Tip! If you’re short on time or can’t find affordable accommodation in the Cinque Terre region, it’s possible to check out Cinque Terre in one day. Check this article for tips: How to see Cinque Terre in one day? Itinerary & tips .

Day 8 and 9: Bologna

From La Spezia, you take the train to Bologna (usually with a change in Parma or Florence). The train journey takes about three to four hours. Bologna is a pleasant student city with an impressive historic center full of towers. This is also one of the best cities to taste the best dishes of Italian cuisine.

Where to stay in Bologna

• Hostel: Dopa Hostel – cozy hostel within walking distance of the city center.
• Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan – in the city center with a beautiful roof terrace.

Day 10 to 14: Verona

The train journey between Bologna and Verona takes only 1.5 hours, so you’ll be in the city of Romeo and Juliet in no time. Verona has a beautiful historic city center. Here you’ll find one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the world, which is still in use for concerts and operas. There are also many special frescoes in the city, for example in Piazza Delle Erbe and in Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore.

From Verona, you can go on some great day trips, for example:

• Venice : one of the most impressive places in the world.
• Padua : a pleasant university city with the largest square in Italy
• Peschiera del Garda: go on beautiful walks along Lake Garda

Where to stay in Verona

• Hostel: Posada Verona Hostel – modern furnished hostel, near the station.
• Hotel: Hotel Milano – hotel with spa facilities next to the Verona Arena.

From Verona, you can easily continue your trip through Europe. You might even want to visit Austria or Germany! But you can also easily take the train to Milan (the journey takes about 2 hours) and travel back home from there.

Map: Northern Italy by train itinerary

Below you see a map with the destinations in Northern Italy that you can visit by train. The blue cities are great destinations to use as a base and the green places are nice to visit as a day trip.

About this Northern Italy by train itinerary

To create some tranquility in this Northern Italy by train itinerary, I chose to stay longer in some places and make day trips from there. This way, I had to travel less with all my luggage and I also liked to come “home” every now and then. If you don’t feel like relaxing a little during your trip, you can of course choose to stay shorter everywhere and add extra stops.

Do you have more time? Then you can also consider visiting these places:

• Add Pisa and Florence between La Spezia and Bologna. This way you also visit two beautiful cities in Tuscany .
• From Bologna, you can go on day trips to other places. I can recommend visiting Modena, Parma and Ravenna.

Want to visit and explore more cities? Check out this post: 10 amazing cities in Northern Italy to explore .

Traveling by train in Italy

The train connections are good in Italy and trains run on a regular basis. Keep in mind that you are taking the right train at the right time. Your ticket is only valid for that train.

You can buy tickets at the station, at a machine or at the ticket office. You still have to validate this ticket before boarding the train, this is possible at one of the many machines. You can also buy an e-ticket via Omio .

Where to stay

At every destination in this itinerary, I’ve added some great options on where to stay. Are they no longer available or do you prefer something else? During my trip to Northern Italy (September 2020), I booked all my accommodations last minute and that was easy to do. I used Booking.com for hostels and hotel rooms and Airbnb for apartments. There was always plenty to choose from for a reasonable price via both platforms.

Want to read more about Italy?

Order one of these travel guides to get inspired:

DK Eyewitness Italy

Whether you want to explore the evocative ruins of the Roman empire, traverse Tuscany’s vineyard-cloaked hills, or simply sip espresso and watch the world go by, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all that Italy has to offer.

Frommer’s Italy

With helpful advice and honest recommendations from Frommer’s expert authors, you’ll walk among the ancient ruins of Pompeii, float along the canals of Venice, appreciate Renaissance masterworks in Florence, explore off-the-beaten-path Puglia and live  la dolce vita  in Rome―as well as discover timeless wonders such as the vineyards of Tuscany and cliff-top towns perched along the Amalfi Coast and the Cinque Terre.

As I travel to Italy regularly, you can read more about a trip to Italy on this website. Check out these articles as well:

• 16 Most beautiful cities in Italy
• Bucket list: these are the most beautiful places in Italy
• The best things to do in Tuscany

Looking for more travel inspiration?  Sign up for my newsletter  for great travel stories and tips on the most beautiful destinations.

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As a girl from a small town in the Netherlands, I always dreamed of traveling . I thought it would always be a dream, but nowadays, I travel 6 to 8 months a year and I hike thousands of miles on the most beautiful hiking trails. On this website you can read all about my favorite destinations.

Related posts

10 amazing cities in Northern Italy to explore

How to see Cinque Terre in one day? Itinerary & tips

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10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary: 2 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Northern Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lombardy & Veneto in 10 Days

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

Day 1 – Milan

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Milan

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Milan

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

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

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

Day 3 – Lake Como

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Lake Como

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Lake Como

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Bergamo

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Bergamo

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

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

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

Day 6 – Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Verona

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Venice

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Venice

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Venice

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

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

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

Day 10 – Venice

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

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

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

Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna & Liguria in 10 Days

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Lake Como or Bergamo

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Modena

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Bologna

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Bologna

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

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

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

Day 6 – Bologna

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Cinque Terre

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

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

Day 9 – Genoa

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Genoa

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

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

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

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

Day 10 – Genoa

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

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

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

Have 14 Days in Northern Italy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts:

The Essential Guide to Visiting Rome in Winter

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Genoa Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Lake Como Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

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

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

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

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Three Cities from which to explore Northern Italy by train

Take holidays in northern Italy by making taking day trips by train from Milan, Bologna or Vicenza

Why the suggestion of Milan, Bologna or Vicenza

Top of the selection criteria is how easy it will be to make the journeys by train to explore multiple other must-see destinations, from one fabulous location. Also when SMTJ is on holiday a leisurely beginning to a day is essential, so having to race to the station to board a must-catch train, is a scenario best avoided. Hence frequent trains are ideal because they minimise the need for advance planning, enable spontaneity; and provide confidence that it will be easy to manage the return trip towards the end of the day. Keeping the ticketing nice and simple, by avoiding the need to book in advance to save money, also helps.

Why the north?

Northern Italy’s denser population compared to the south requires fairly regular train services, so that's why these three suggestions are all located there.

Another destination further south, which has fairly frequent trains to multiple beautiful places, is Florence/Firenze ; ideal if you want to spend time in Lucca, Siena, Assisi and Perugia on a single holiday. But Florence is already a popular holiday locale and this guide is an attempt to spotlight less obvious locations in which to linger while in Italy.

Though something to keep in mind is that the local and regional trains in Italy tend to head away from cities less frequently between 09:00 and midday. So confirming a departure time with a quick check on the ItaliaRail website , before heading off to the station in the morning, is highly recommended.

Top image - clockwise from top left: Milano Centrale station; Parma; Venezia S. Lucia station, Venice; Parma station; Lake Maggiore on a train from Stresa to Milan

Second image - clockwise from top left: Lake Lugano on a train heading to Colico; Parma; on the Centovali Railway; Lugano; Lake Maggiore north of Arona; Milano Centrale station.

Third image Views on the train journey from Tirano to St Moritz

Fourth image - clockwise from top left: Parma; Parma (again); Florence; Parma; Venice and Modena

Unfortunately the holiday in Vicenza was taken more than five years ago and despite an extensive search through the archives, the images taken can't be found, but trust me, it was incredible!

From Milan:

For a destination for an extended Italian holiday, Milano tends to be overshadowed by Italy’s multitude of more beautiful cities, but as a base for seeing the best of northern Italy by train, Milan is a second to none location .

Stunning locations within easy reach of Milan by train

Regionale trains can transport you from the centre of Milano, on journeys which take under 90 minutes, to the likes of Bergamo , Brescia and Piacenza . If you’ll be willing to make a journey of under two hours by Regionale train, you can also make spontaneous day trips to the likes of Parma , Torino and Verona .

Taking the Regionale trains is recommended because when making journeys by them, the tickets won’t be any more expensive if booked at the station just before boarding. The ticket machines scattered around Milano Centrale station are also comparatively easy to use. Though it’s best off to look up the departure times before heading off in mid-morning, as the Regionale trains tend to depart less frequently between 09:00 and noon.

Though when travelling to the suggested cities (Bergamo excepted) you will reach your destination faster if you take a high speed Frecce or Italo train . However, journeys by those high speed trains will be (much) cheaper if you book ahead and commit in advance to taking specific trains, so you will then have to travel by them, even if the weather is poor.

Simnple access to other Italian cities

Because Milano is the hub of the network of Italian high speed lines , it’s feasible to see the likes of Bologna , Firenze/Florence , Padova/Padua and Venezia/Venice on day trips by train from the city – setting off after breakfast on the Frecce or Italo trains . Though even if you book tickets a day or two before making these journeys, you will still save money compared to booking at the station just before boarding.

To the Italian Lakes

But what makes holidaying in Milano particularly special is that you can experience additional attractions than other beautiful cities, because its railways also offer multiple options for accessing the lovely Italian lakes by train.

Within 1hr 45 mins from Milan by train you can be on the shores of Lake Maggiore by taking Regionale trains to Arona or Stressa.

Or head to Lake Garda by taking a train to Desenzano or Peschiera.

There are also multiple options for accessing Lake Como, hourly local trains from Milano Cadorna station will take you a station in the town of Como, which is located right by the lakeside. Or head to the eastern shore of Lake Como in around 70 minutes by taking a Regionale train from Milano Centrale to Lecco , or to Colico , or Varenna-Esio – from Varenna it’s possible to take ferry services on multiple routes across Lake Como. When heading to Colico or Varenna by train, take a seat on the left hand side for the stunning views over the lake from the railway.

Lake Lugano is also an easy day trip from Milano, thanks to an improved service of direct Regionale trains, branded ‘Ticino’, which complete the journey in under 80 minutes.

Experience beautiful Switzerland on day trips from Milan

Taking the train to Lugano involves heading over the border to Switzerland, so Milano is also a great location for seeing the best of southern Switzerland by train. Those trains to Lugano also call at Capolago Lago station, where easy transfers are available to the stunning Monte Generoso railway . They also carry on beyond Lugano to Bellinzona, where easy connections are available on to Locarno . From Locarno it’s possible to take a journey on the wonderful Centovali Railway .

Though this railway also has as connection with direct trains from Milano at Domodossola station; and the railway between Domodossola and Milano also offers wonderful views over Lake Maggiore. So a Milan > Bellinzona > Locarno > Domodossola > Milan round trip by train is a fantastic day out.

Trains heading to Tirano from Milano Centrale station travel a spectacular route along the shore of Lake Como.

This is a prelude to the most beautiful train journey which can be easily accessed from Milan, namely a ride on the Bernina Railway from Tirano on to St. Moritz. The journey from Milan to St Moritz will take around five hours, but the ride is an absolute treat!

For those with deep pockets or a Eurail or InterRail pass, it’s possible to make a second-to-none day trip by train. Take the train which departs Milano Centrale for Tirano at 09:20 and with simple as can be connections in Tirano, Pontresina, Samedan and Chur, it’s possible to be in Zurich in time to take a EuroCity train back to Milano. During these journeys, you’ll experience more than 10 hours of near continuous beautiful views from the train windows.

When planning a trip, finding convenient accommodation can be trickier than working out which train to take. Hence ShowMeTheJourney has partnered with the innovative accommodation portal, Stay 22, to offer three options for discovering your optimum accommodation:

1: Use the map above to see which hotel rooms and Vrbo rentals, with easy access to Milano Centrale, are available.

2: Or click on these cherry-picked properties, offered by Stay 22 partner Booking.com , which are by Milano Centrale and have been selected on the basis of high guest ratings:

B&B Hotel Milano Aosta

Ostello Bello Milano Centrale

Spice Hotel Milano

HD8 Hotel Milano

Smart Hotel Central

Glam Milano

Hotel Colombia

AV Hotel Milano

3: Or see what's available with Stay 22's accommodation partners; which include, Expedia, Hotels.com and Trivago - by clicking here . Stay 22 will 'shuffle' the booking services so that you can be automatically directed to its partner that currently has the optimum availability at this location.

From Bologna:

Despite its many charms, Bologna tends to be eclipsed by the likes of Firenze, Napoli, Roma and Venezia as locations of where to stay in Italy; though its reputation as a food lover’s paradise has been gaining prominence in recent years. But despite being very partial to Italian cuisine, that’s not why ShowMeTheJourney chose to holiday in the city .

Bologna Centrale is the busiest junction station on the entire Italian railway network , so it’s possible to spend more than a week in the city and head off to some different magical destination by train every day.

Bologna Centrale also benefits from a plethora of quality hotels that are within a 5 min walk of the station. It can pay off to target these in more ways than one, as the station is on the northern edge of the city centre and buses are the only public transport option in Bologna. Though the heart of the city is only a 20 -25 minute walk from the station .

Easy access to Italy’s stunning beauty

Many of northern Italy’s most beautiful towns and cities including Ferrara , Modena , Padova , Parma , Prato , Ravenna , Rimini , Venezia and Verona, can all be accessed on direct journeys from Bologna by fairly frequent Regionale (REG/RGV) trains on journeys which will take between 30 mins and two hours.

Because of the fairly short distances, it’s also relatively simple to experience multiple locations in a single day. For example, Modena can be combined with Parma, while Ravenna also has trains to both Ferrara and Rimini, which makes for an easy round day trip to three, or even four, locations.

The tick in the box for taking the Regionale (REG/RGV) trains is that the tickets won’t be any more expensive if you book them last minute at the station. So you can be spontaneous and react to your mood or the weather, when choosing where to go each day.

Most of those destinations listed also have faster express trains from Bologna, but tickets to travel by those Frecce, InterCity and Italo trains will only be cheaper if you book ahead before arriving in Bologna; and if you do you’ll also then be committed to travelling by specific departures. So, if for example, you take the Regionale Veloce train to Venezia instead of the Frecce train, the journey time will be around 30 mins longer, but you’ll save money when booking at the station and won’t be committed to returning by a specific train.

Using Italia in Tour Passes

ITALIA IN TOUR 3 and ITALIA IN TOUR 5 passes can be used for travel solely by the slower Regionale (R) and Regionale Veloce (RV) trains operated by Trenitalia. They allow for unlimited travel by these trains for three or five consecutive days from the first day of travel and can be purchased on the Trenitalia website or from the ticket office in Bologna and atTrenitalia ticket machines. They can be used on all of the R and RV trains which travel to and from Bologna.

Though plan ahead for a trip to Florence

You can be experiencing the wonders of Florence/Firenze less than 45 minutes after departing from Bologna Centrale , thanks to the high speed trains which rush through the tunnels between the two cities, providing the only direct city centre to city centre service. So if you want to take a day trip by train from Bologna to Firenze, the balance tips in favour of taking the Frecce or Italo trains, despite the need to book ahead to save money.

If you’d rather leave booking the trip to Florence until the last minute, you will typically save more than €20 each way, by taking the Regionale trains, but you will need to make a connection in Prato and the journey time in each direction will be more than an hour longer than the high-speed trains. Or if you will be booking last minute at the station and want to take the high speed services, compare the prices of the Frecciarossa trains you will see on the Trenitalia ticket machines, with the prices of the Italo tickets on the Italo ticket machines.

A day trip from Bologna to Rome

Leave Bologna early in the morning and return late in the evening by high-speed train and it’s also possible to spend more than 10 hours in Rome; though if you book this journey at least a couple of weeks ahead, you will typically save more than €50 on the price of tickets.

1: Use the map above to see which hotel rooms and Vrbo rentals, with easy access to Bologna Centrale, are available.

2: Or click on these cherry-picked properties, offered by Stay 22 partner Booking.com , which are by Bologna Centrale and have been selected on the basis of high guest ratings:

Starhotels Excelsior

UNAHOTELS Bologna Centro

NH Bologna De La Gare

Galliera Residence B&B

Hotel Atlantic

From Vicenza:

Beautiful cities are strung along the railway which connects Milano to Venezia/Venice, with wonderful Verona roughly at its mid-point, so ShowMeTheJourney considered it as an ideal location for an extended break.

A great alternative to Verona

But finding somewhere to stay with easy access to Verona Porta Nuova station proved a tad tricky, because the station is cut off from the city centre by busy a ring road and the remnants of the city walls. So there are comparatively few ideally situated hotels by Verona’s main station and they were fully booked, which provoked a re-think.

On the day trip destination wish list were Desenzano on Lake Garda , Padova/Padua , Treviso , Venezia and Vicenza. So then the realisation began to kick in that the gorgeous city of Vicenza was actually the better base location for the explorations. The journeys to Padova and Venezia would be 40 minutes shorter and Vicenza station has direct trains to Treviso, but Verona doesn’t; plus the journey from Vicenza to Verona would only take around 35 minutes.

Easy journeys by train

Direct Regionale trains could be taken to all four of these destinations, which meant no need to book in advance in order to save money for journeys by these trains. Though on the Verona – Vicenza – Padova – Venezia route there are also faster Regionale Veloce (RV) services , which cost the same price as the slower Regionale services, but are worth targeting because they skip some stations, so are faster.

Taking the Regionale trains from Vicenza to Desenzano, required a connection in Verona and this was easily managed on the way there, but coming back a direct Frecce train was a better, but more expensive option.

Though generally there’s little point in booking ahead to save money on the more expensive tickets required when taking a Frecce or Italo train from Vicenza to the likes of Padova, Verona or Vicenza/Venice. The journey times will only be around 10 minutes faster and those cheaper Economy tickets for the express trains commit the traveller to taking specific trains, so money can’t be refunded if the day you happen to have chosen has bad weather.

1: Use the map above to see which hotel rooms and Vrbo rentals, with easy access to Vicenza station are available.

2: Or see what's available with Stay 22's accommodation partners; which include, Expedia, Hotels.com and Trivago -over a wider area - by clicking here Stay 22 will 'shuffle' the booking services so that you can be automatically directed to its partner that currently has the optimum availability at this location.

The 22 locations that are great bases for taking day trips by train:

Basel l Bellinzona l Bologna

Cologne l Erfurt l Frankfurt

Gent l Glasgow l Innsbruck

Leeds l Machynlleth l Manchester

Marseille l Milan l Munich

Olten l Offenburg l Penzance

Reading l Rotterdam l Stirling

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help. We’re striving not to let anything get in the way of providing the most useful service possible, hence a facility has been set up with DonorBox which can be used to support the running costs and make improvements.

Instead of advertising or paywalls, your financial support will make a positive difference to delivering an enhanced service, as there’s a lot of ideas which we want to make happen.

So if you have found the info provided here to be useful, please go here to say thank you .

Simon Harper

I wanted to share my passion for train travel and explain how anyone can take the fantastic journeys I have taken.

This is one of more than 100 train travel guides available on ShowMeTheJourney , which will make it easier to take the train journeys you want or need to make. As always, all images were captured on trips taken by ShowMeTheJourney.

Help keep us advertising and paywall free!

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help.

We’re striving not to let anything get in the way of providing the most useful service possible, hence a facility has been set up with DonorBox which can be used to support the running costs and make improvements.

So if you have found the info provided here to be useful, please consider saying thank you.

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Touring Northern Italy By Train

Italy is one of the most popular countries in Europe to visit because of the variety of destinations within its borders . Northern Italy is a premier hotspot when it comes to Italian culture, with so much for travelers to see and do. Whether sampling fine wine and dining on world-class cuisine or exploring ancient castles and churches , this region offers unique experiences that you will love. There are plenty of destinations to explore in Northern Italy, so if you have a week or two to spend in Italy, you are bound to find some places to captivate you. Here are a couple of suggestions for places to visit when touring Northern Italy by train.

• This article was written to educate about Train Travel and was made by Save A Train, The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

Begin your Touring Northern Italy By Train  in Milan

Begin your visit to Northern Italy in Milan, the fashion capital of the world. The city is full of stunning Renaissance architecture, incredible cathedrals and world-class works of art. Visitors can also take a day trip to the Italian lakes and Southern Alps region from this fabulous metropolitan. Milan is also home to Milan Central , and is considered to be one of the most beautiful European train stations . This is the perfect place to begin your tour of Northern Italy.

Turin to Milan Trains

La Spezia to Milan Trains

Parma to Milan Trains

Salerno to Milan Trains

Train to Venice

The train journey from Milan to Venice is typically two and a half hours, with plenty of  scenery train travelers can admire from your carriage window. From the moment you leave the train station in Venice, you can catch a glimpse of the great Grand Canal, where every type of watercraft can be seen sailing by. Venice is made up of 118 islands connected by bridges and separated by canals. This magnificent city is renowned for its beauty, architecture, artworks and cobblestone streets . Traveler can’t help but fall in love with this enchanted region. Touring Northern Italy by train is not complete without a visit to Venice.

Genoa to Venice Trains

Turin to Venice Trains

Parma to Venice Trains

La Spezia to Venice Trains

Florence, the famous renaissance city , is located just three hours by train from Venice . Once you reach this destination, almost every major site is within walking distance from the train station. As the capital of the Tuscany region, Florence boasts amazing food and wine , along with world-class museums . Visit iconic sights, including the stately Ponte Vecchio also known as the ‘Old Bridge’, the towering Florence Duomo and Michelangelo’s sculpture of David.

Reggio Emilia to Florence Trains

Genoa to Florence Trains

Sestri Levante to Rome Trains

Parma to Florence Trains

Cinque Terra – Touring Northern Italy By Train

Make Cinque Terra your final stop – this stunning region is only a few hours by train from Florence. Cinque Terra has no museums or notable historic sites but it is a striking section of the Italian Riviera that has been left untouched. After days of touring Northern Italy by train , this is the perfect place to enjoy Italy’s natural landscape . The hilly coastline is a mixture of rock cliffs and pretty vineyards with five beautiful and remote fishing villages .

Reggio Emilia to Levanto Trains

Genoa to Levanto Trains

Sestri Levante to Levanto Trains

Parma to Levanto Trains

The towns are connected only by ferry, hiking paths and of course train lines. Explore the cliffs and beaches and refuel at one of the gorgeous cafes perched on rocky headlands overlooking the harbor. This idyllic region is truly breath-taking – the perfect place to re-energize. From here you can take a train back to Milan where you can begin your journey home.

Did you tour Northern Italy by train? Let us know the favorite places that you have visited by tweeting us at  @SaveATrain !  we are also active on all social channels, check out Saveatrain

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• If you want to be kind to your users, you can guide them directly into our search pages. In this link, you will find our most popular train routes – https://www.saveatrain.com/routes_sitemap.xml . Inside you have our links for English landing pages, but we also have https://www.saveatrain.com/fr_routes_sitemap.xml and you can change the /fr to /de or /it and more languages.

Niamh Waters

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Northern Italy Itinerary – A Charming and Unusual Journey

Of all the countries that we have visited, Italy is probably our favourite. We return there time and again and are always amazed that there are so many amazing places to visit.

Architecturally the country is something else, there are of course the famous places that we have all heard of and seen in a million pictures.

But away from the tourist hotspots almost every town and village seems to be designed like something out of a storybook with medieval towns and villages dotting the landscape. And what a landscape! Italy has it all, from snow-capped peaks to white sandy beaches, it is no surprise that Italy is known as the ‘Bel Paese’ or ‘Beautiful Country’.

This northern Italy itinerary will really help if you are planning a trip to northern Italy. We will pass on some top travel tips for visiting the north of Italy by public transport and share what we think is a pretty awesome 2-week itinerary.

We did this two week trip with our 8-month-old daughter and travelled by train and bus but you could easily do it by car if you prefer.

We went at quite a fast pace and this route could easily keep you busy for 3 weeks or longer. Our route incorporated overnight stays in Bergamo , Torri-del-Benaco, Verona , Ortisei in the Italian Dolomites , and Venice .

We feel that this gives a perfect blend of nature and culture with the chance to get out hiking plus soaking up some of the nicest towns in the north. It is very easy to do by public transport and we show you how below.

If you have only one week you will need to drop some of these places. It is a tough decision but we would probably go choose to visit Bergamo, Garda and Venice.

Travelling with a baby or toddler? Check out our post of the most essential baby and toddler travel gear and our guide to Italy with young kids

Our 14 Day Northern Italy Itinerary

The delightful town of Bergamo is often overlooked on itineraries for the north of Italy but is a great destination full of historic atmosphere and Italian charm.

Perched high above the surrounding lowlands, the old part of town is known as the Citta Alta and is characterised by old cobblestone streets and shuttered properties, while an impressive Venetian wall encircles this old district.

As with most Italian towns, our favourite thing to do is just walking around the town, popping into the interesting looking churches and finding a nice piazza to sit in.

When we were there buskers created a magical atmosphere around the Piazza Vecchia and as ever there was a great gelateria on hand with some wonderful Italian ice cream (maybe this is the real reason we love Italy so much).

You can ride the Funicular up to the Rocca di San Vigilio for fantastic views over the city, or down to the lower town which is newer than the upper town but still dates back several hundred years.

Other must do’s in the town include walking the Venetian Walls which are listed by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

This gives you a great introduction to the town with small parks and restaurants dotted along the walls, each with great views over the lower town and back to the Citta Alta with its ornate city gates.

For this itinerary, we recommend 2 nights in Bergamo, check out our full guide to visiting Bergamo . If you have any extra time you might like to spend a day in Milan , it is an easy day trip.

Getting to Bergamo

Arrival: Fly to Milan Bergamo airport and catch bus No1 to Citta Alta. This departs every 30 mins. The bus also stops at the train station and other points in the lower town if this is where you choose to stay.

Where to Stay in Bergamo

Both the upper and lower towns are worth a visit but it is really the perfectly preserved medieval upper town that is the big draw for tourists and this area makes the ideal place to stay.

Looking to book a room in Bergamo ? Check out these great options!

Bed & Breakfast A Casa Mia – Where we stayed. A lovely B&B just outside the walls of the upper town. There are fabulous views from the balcony and a delicious breakfast. Recommended.

Bergamo Alta Apartment – Great for Families . Good value 2 bedroom apartments in the heart of the upper town.

Relais San Lorenzo – Top rated on Booking.com. Enjoy a relaxing stay at this elegant hotel where you can indulge yourself at the spa with Finnish sauna, Turkish bath and sensory showers.

Bergamo to Lake Garda: Take bus No1 back to train station and catch a train heading to Treviglio and then to Peschiera Del Garda Station, the journey takes just over an hour and a half. Walk the short distance to the bus stop and catch Bus 483 to Torri Del Benaco.

Timetables for buses and ferries around Lake Garda can be found here .

Torri del Benaco is the ancient capital of Lake Garda and is a lovely town well worth a visit, it is situated about halfway up the east coast of Lake Garda where the rolling hills start to grow into towering mountains.

It makes a great base to explore Italy’s largest lake, with ferries and tours going to pretty much everywhere.

The town offers lovely views across the lake which can be enjoyed from one of the many lakeside restaurants in the beautiful port area where hotels and boutique shops rest up against the old castle walls.

There is a very small beach here that will entertain your little ones, but the main attraction is the town itself and using it as a gateway to other towns around the lake.

We took the ferry up the east shore of the lake to the famously picturesque town of Malcesine. Along the way you will get great views of the entire lake and to the mountains that rear up behind to pretty towns that dot the shore.

Malcesine is charming with a beautiful setting and a maze of historic alleys leading up to the castle. It is very popular with day-trippers so do not expect to have the place to yourself.

If you are following our north Italy itinerary over 2 weeks, we suggest 3 nights at Lake Garda. Check out our in-depth guide to things to do in Lake Garda and guide to visiting Lake Garda with a baby or toddler

Where to stay at Lake Garda

There are some great places to stay in Lake Garda, we always book through Booking.com they have great prices and free cancellations if your plans change.

Our top picks are:

Hotel Al Castello – This is where we stayed. They do a great breakfast, are very family friendly and it is well located near everything (including the bus stop). We enjoyed our stay here.

Residence Ca Del Lago – Lovely apartments with lake views. Has a nice swimming pool.

Hotel Riel – A great option for families, Hotel Riel has clean modern rooms and a lovely swimming pool.

Torri del Benaco to Verona: There is a direct bus to Verona (X05) but this only leaves at 06:35. At other times take bus 483 to Peschiera del Garda and then catch the train to Verona.

Nestled on a tight curve of the Adige River, Verona has been an important town since Roman times. Today smart shops and cafes fill the attractive and vibrant old town.

It is a popular place with tourists but doesn’t quite enjoy the international renown of towns like Venice and Florence.

It’s easy to spend time simply exploring the narrow streets lined with handsome palazzi that make up the historic centre. The town’s museums and churches contain fine works of art, while the views over the river from the ruined Roman theatre are well worth the climb up.

Just inside the town walls is Piazza Brà, a large open space dominated by the ruins of the Roman Verona Arena, which now hosts open-air opera in the summer months. We found some great restaurants in the small streets just off Piazza Brà, but the true heart of the town and its most majestic buildings can be found at Piazza Erbe.

I’m not sure anyone has ever written about Verona without mentioning that it was the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet so I won’t be the one to buck that trend.

It seems to be something that is being heavily pushed for the benefit of tourists but the links are tenuous at best. We had a quick look past the crowds at the famous ‘Juliet’s Balcony’ but chose not to post the dead, fictional character a letter at ‘Juliet’s Tomb’, this is an option if you feel inclined.

We took a day trip to the often-overlooked historic city of Mantua , again taking the train. It is a picturesque town surrounded by water with a skyline dominated by ancient towers, turrets and domes.

The town is an architectural gem that has scarcely changed since medieval times (the defensive lakes that surround the city don’t allow room for expansion). It is a quiet but charming place to visit and is free from the crowds of tourists and tacky souvenirs stalls that you will find elsewhere.

We suggest spending 3 nights in Verona which should give you enough time to check out all the best things to do in Verona which will take you past the midpoint on this northern Italy itinerary 14 days.

Where to Stay in Verona

Click here to find the best deals for accommodation in verona.

Verona to Ortisei: Take the train from Verona to Ponte Gardena then catch bus 350 to Ortisei. Remember to check the latest bus timetables .

The Dolomites

The rocky peaks of the Dolomites are iconic and spectacular so we were keen to include some time in the mountains despite them being slightly out of the way on our northern Italy travel route.

By staying in the Val Gardena area, we were able to enjoy stunning views and some great hiking territory that was very accessible by public transportation. Not only was it easy to get to, but there is a good network of buses and cable cars that will help you get around once you have arrived. Val Gardena is part of the massive Dolomiti Superski and is well worth visiting in winter for excellent skiing and snowboarding .

If your hotel in the valley is a member of the Tourist Association in Val Gardena (ours was), they will be able to provide you with a free bus pass, the Val Gardena Mobil Pass, for use on buses in the valley. This card also allows you to use a nice public swimming pool for free.

The cable cars were great for allowing us to see a bit more of the mountains with our daughter. Carrying an 8-month-old on a hike isn’t so bad ( with a good baby carrier) , but we don’t like to keep her cooped up in the harness for too long, so we were keen to find some hikes that were spectacular but not too epic.

We stayed in pretty little Ortisei, one of four main villages in the 25 km Val Gardena. All are surrounded by impressive and powerful mountains and would make a good base for a few days in the area.

We did 3 hikes in the area, one straight from our hotel, and two where we took the cable car up before hiking at higher altitude. Before we came I knew that I wanted to see the classic dolomite rocky peaks, but I wasn’t too sure where they actually were and if this was a good place to see them from.

Well, I wasn’t disappointed coming here, our first short hike out from Ortisei gave us stupendous views like the one below. It can get hot so remember your hiking shorts !

Where to Stay in Val Gardena

There are a few nice towns in the valley but we were very happy with our choice of Ortisei and we couldn’t fault our stay at B&B Villa Angelino ,  the room was great with amazing views across the valley and the breakfast was also excellent which is quite rare in Italy.

We suggest 3 nights here before you continue on your north Italy travel itinerary.

>>> Click here for the best accommodation deals in Ortisei

Ortisei to Venice: Catch bus 170 to Bolzano then catch a train to Venice. We spent a couple of hours walking around the charming town of Bolzano before continuing on the train. It is a lovely riverside town with a great atmosphere and we recommend doing this to split up your journey.

Stepping out of the station at Venice is a moment that will stay with me always. You walk out and it is right there, the Grand Canal that you will recognise from so many movies and photos.

Boats and gondolas busily travel back and forth whilst tourists grab their cameras to take the first of many photos of this floating city. It is hectic and amazing all at once.

Venice needs no introduction. Even if you have never been, the name itself will instantly conjure up images of ornate bridges, cathedrals, and palaces overlooking watery streets lined with gondolas. It is a place that has inspired awe in travellers for centuries and is surely one of the world’s great treasures.

Having said that, I wasn’t too sure if we would like Venice. We had always liked to stay off the tourist trail and visit out of the way places, but Venice has a reputation for being crazily busy, and we were here in July at the peak of tourist season.

I can safely say that we absolutely loved it and it was a highlight of this trip to Italy. We are world travellers always on the lookout for new places and new experiences, and there is nowhere in the world like Venice.

It truly deserves its fame and popularity. It is unique and stunningly beautiful.

Yes, it is busy but other than one or two hotspots this doesn’t detract from the majesty of the town and it is somewhere that we think everyone should visit.

No matter how many photographs or films you may have seen, it is still a jaw-dropping experience seeing Venice’s canals and palaces for the first time, and a trip down the Grand Canal is one of the great travel experiences. The buildings are sumptuous and the atmosphere is extraordinary as gondolas, taxi boats and vaporetto’s vie for space along the waterway whilst passing under balconies that display the Italian flag .

All of Venice is beautiful and if you wander the back streets and canals away from the main sights, it is easy enough to get away from the crowds. We spent very little time at the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco but the city is blessed with so many sights around every corner that you do not need to focus on these famous places.

One of the best things to do in Venice is simply traveling around using Vaporetto’s. These are water buses that go back and forth along the canals, carrying tourists and locals to all parts of the city.

Venice looks its best from the water so this is a great, low-cost way to see the facades of wonderful, crumbling palaces that line the waterfront. You can buy a ticket that allows for unlimited journeys and you can even visit some other towns on the nearby islands, like Murano, Torcello and Mazzorbo on day trips.

We have written a detailed guide to things to do in Venice with kids , and if you are travelling with very young kids be sure to read our guide to Venice with a baby or toddler . We suggest spending the final 3 nights of your Italy tour in this magical city, this is about the right amount of days to spend in Venice.

Where to Stay in Venice

Looking to book a room in  Venice ? Check out our favourite places on  Booking.com

Hotel Palazzo Stern – Spectacular Location : For a truly memorable stay try this old palace right by the Grand Canal. The canal side terrace is an unbeatable place to have a meal or drink whilst the interior is opulent enough to make it feel like you are staying in a palace (which you are!).

Ca’ Due Leoni – Where we stayed : This is a hidden gem located in a quiet residential area at the heart of the Cannaregio District. It is a small hotel that is great value with a pleasant courtyard for breakfast and antique furnishings for a touch of glamour.

B&B San Firmino – Top rated on Booking.com : Overlooking the Santa Maria Formosa church’s baroque façade and the canal this B&B offers wonderful breakfasts and comfortable rooms.

For more ideas of where to stay in Venice, check out our guide to the best hotels with swimming pools

Venice to Venice Treviso airport: Catch the ATPO or Barzi shuttle bus. If you have time for an extra place, Treviso itself is well worth a visit and you can get there easily by train.

How to Travel Northern Italy

Northern Italy is an easy place to tour and you have the option of using public transport to visit all of the places covered in this post. In this section, we pass on our top tips for travelling Italy by public transport. If you prefer to hire a car, check out our guide to renting a car in Italy .

Public Transport in Italy

Italy has a great train network that reaches the majority of towns that you might want to visit. Tickets are reasonably priced and train services are efficient on modern trains. The price of your ticket varies depending on the class of the train and the speed of the service.

In most cases, it is best to book tickets in advance as seat reservations are required, and it will ensure that you get the best price. You can do this online and get an electronic ticket sent to your phone or you can print them out.

If like us, you aren’t always good at planning ahead you can buy tickets at the station. It’s best to check online first so that you know which trains are best for you considering the overall journey time and cost.

If you are booking online, Trenitalia is the official Italian Railways site. It can be slightly tricky to use as you will need to use the Italian place names (e.g. Venezia for Venice). ItaliaRail has a far more user-friendly system that is all in English with the English-language place names used.

Both sites have similar prices and even though Italiarail charges a small booking fee it can sometimes work out to be cheaper, especially for more than one traveller.

Overall ItaliaRail is the best system and is the easiest one to use it can also help you to find the best tickets as it displays trains and prices for the whole day rather than a narrow window.

Planning Your Route Using Public Transport

A great way to plan your route on public transport it to use the route planning feature on Google Maps. This is particularly useful if your destination is not on the train line.

If you click on the public transport option for your journey it will show you the available options using a bus/train combination and show you the journey times and where you need to go.

Local bus tickets should be purchased before you get on board and can usually be bought at a kiosk or shop near to the bus station, they must be validated once you are on the bus.

Northern Italy Itinerary – The Bottom Line?

We hope you have enjoyed reading our Northern Italy itinerary by public transport, it was a great trip to some lovely places with a good mix of sights.

Travelling by bus and train proved to be very easy and it is worth considering this as an alternative to a northern Italy road trip. We hope that we have inspired you to head over to Italy, if you have any questions please ask below. You may also like to check out our Italy itinerary for some other ideas on how to spend your time in Italy. If you travel with little ones be sure to read our Italy with a baby and toddler guide .

20 thoughts on “Northern Italy Itinerary – A Charming and Unusual Journey”

This is a really good review. Italy has always been a place I’ve wanted to go for a long time, like many I’m sure. Even though I had pictured Italy numerous times, I failed to think of the mountain areas. This is somewhere I now have to visit as well as the cities. The pictures you added were beautiful to say the least. Thank you for sharing about transport as well, I know that can be tricky to a new comer like myself.

Thank you for your kind words. I am actually back in Italy as I type this and I keep finding more and more lovely places to visit. Please do try and visit Italy, it is a wonderful country and the itinerary in this post would be a great introduction to the country for your first visit.

Very informative article. We’re planning on going to Lake Garda and Venice next year so thanks alot for the tips

Thank you! I am sure that you will love your trip! They are both lovely places to visit and it is great that it is so easy to get around this area of northern Italy.

Hey there! Thanks for taking the time to write this detailed bus/train route for anyone travelling to Italy. I always love taking the bus because it is slower pace than driving myself and I can take in the scenery or get lots of pictures since I’m not focused on driving. It looks breathtakingly beautiful there!

Thanks for sharing,

I agree, the train or bus are great ways to travel. You can calmly watch the changing scenery through the window without any of the hassle of driving or parking. Glad you enjoyed this post.

What a wonderful country! Italy is one of the country i always want to visit when i get money. With your wonderful review i am eagerly to go there. Lovely views . It is a blessing to have such a lovely nature , great buildings.

Thank you for sharing this post

Thanks! Italy has it all, wonderful landscapes, amazing history, and great food on top. You cant go wrong choosing it for a holiday! It is also cheaper there than you might imagine, you can get great pizza for only 4 euros, and you can find apartments for a whole family for around 45 euros per night.

Thanks so much for this. We leave for Florence in two months and we try to research EVERYTHING that we can think of! It was extremely difficult to find good info about how the public transport works in Italy. At least in English!

By the way, from the way you describe Venice, I feel like we’ll do a stop there as well. It looks beautiful!

Thanks! I am glad that you found our post useful! You are right there isnt that much information out there about using public transport in Italy, we aim to fill that gap! Yes, you should try and make it to Venice one day, but dont worry, Florence is lovely too! You can get to Venice from Florence in 2-3 hours (depending on the train type), so you could combine the two quite easily.

Yay! Thanks a lot!

No problem, have a great trip!!

Dear Chris, Thank you for this wonderful article on Italy. I am planning a trip to Italy for next year and am using you as a resource. I have been to Florence before and loved it but I would really like to see the Dolomites. They seem incredible. I love the idea of traveling by train, as it would tremendously cut down on the cost of renting a car and it seems as if train travel is so easy in Europe. Thank you so much for the tips and information. By the way, what is your favorite, must-see place in Italy?

That is a really good question, there are so many places in Italy that are must see places!! I have given some thought to the absolute must see if you can only go to Italy once and have only managed to narrow it down to 2 places: Rome and Venice.

Both are amazing, when I went to Rome I was really impressed by how many ancient Roman ruins there are scattered about the city, and this is combined with the Italina piazza atmosphere that I love. As I have written above, Venice is just incredible, and probably just edges it as my absolute must see due to it being completely unique. They are about 3 and a half hour apart by train so can be combined quite easily.

My other favourite places include Sicily, Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast and Matera.

Good luck planning you trip next year, I am sure you will have a great time. Feel free to message me if you have any questions.

What a good idea this is, seeing a country via public transport allows you to see the real side of that country and oral has some terrific scenery . 

Your post has just simplified how to plan a journey through Italy using their rail network. Italiarail makes it easier by having an English to me it easier to plan your trip. 

The train network seems highly useful and efficient with phone storage for your train ticket. 

I’ve bookmsrked your review to go back To as this really appeals to me. 

Thank you for your comment. Yes, the ItaliaRail site is probably the easiest one to go for, especially if you are not familiar with the Italian place names, many of which are quite different to the english versions. Enjoy your trip to Italy and please feel free to message us if you need any more advice.

I’ve always wanted to go to Italy, it’s a dream of mine since I was a little girl. How amazing it is to be able to visit Italy by public transportation. This was an amazing read and very inspirational. Maybe one day when I can visit Italy, I will considering traveling it by public transportation. The experience would be very different.

I am glad you enjoyed this post. I think that public transport is a great way to see a country and in Italy it is very easy to get to some of the best places just by using public transport.I have also done a nice route of Rome, Florence and Pisa by train that I may cover in a future post. 

Italy here WE come. Myself and my wife have been planning to go to Italy for some time, but didnt really know much about it to put the booking in. But you’ve given enough information to make our minds up. So we are going….YESSSSS

A great decision! I hope you have an amazing trip – I know you will, you can’t go wrong visiting Italy!

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The Perfect Northern Italy Itinerary: 5 Ideas For The Trip Of Your Dreams

Last updated on March 24th, 2024 at 11:06 am

All of Italy’s regions offer something unique, and in this guide the spotlight is on the north. If you are having trouble narrowing down the top places to visit for you or you’re starting from scratch seeking inspiration, you’ll find the perfect northern Italy itinerary for you in this post, along with tips for visiting this part of the country.

I live in northern Italy, so the area not only has a special place in my heart, but I’ve also traveled all around it!

There is truly so much to do and see that one trip may not be enough, which is why I have curated 5 northern Italy itineraries that play to certain strengths: one for those who want to see the most famous locations, one for outdoor adventurers, one for city-lovers, one for couples, and one for foodies, so you experience a little bit of everything.

Hopefully all these options make clearer what is at the top of your northern Italy bucket list!

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Creating The Perfect Northern Italy Itinerary

Before we get into the fun part (the destinations!), I must let you know all the practicalities of planning a northern Italy itinerary.

How Long Should A Northern Italy Itinerary Be?

The big question when planning a trip is always: how long you should spend in northern Italy?

Ideally, a robust northern Italy itinerary falls somewhere between 10 and 14 days.

If you have longer, great! You can go more off-the-beaten-path and deep dive into the culture, taking the slow travel route.

If you have less time and want to see a lot, plan out your transportation well and get ready for days jam-packed with things to do and breathtaking places to see!

I’ll be recommending the stops on the itineraries in a certain order, but not necessarily saying you should be spending one day here and two days there. That is up to you and the flexibility of your travel dates!

I will sprinkle in extra tips and suggestions based on my own experience (so you don’t have to make the same mistakes I have) and extra destinations as well, so you can play with how much extra time you have and be informed about other places in the area well-worth seeing.

Want specific help planning your northern Italy itinerary? Check out my trip planning services , where I give you a personalized itinerary with all the suggestions and tips specific to your desires and needs!

When is the best time to visit Northern Italy?

As a resident of northern Italy, I can share with certainty that the best time to visit is either June or September. In these two months you get the best weather, the very beginning or the tail end of the busy summer tourist season and, if you book ahead, you can get great deals on reservations for rental cars and accommodation.

For those adventure seekers and outdoor lovers, you may also enjoy traveling through the Italian Alps in winter during peak ski season , which is early December to late February.

Read my guides to Italy in Spring , Italy in Summer , Italy in Fall , and Italy in Winter to dive deeper into which season may be a better fit for you.

How To Get Around Northern Italy

Another necessary and important element of visiting northern Italy is knowing how you’ll get around. Northern Italy is the mostly well-connected by public transportation that can take you just about anywhere.

Northern Italy is, however, partially composed of the Italian Alps which presents a challenge for train travel. While you’ll easily be able to get from city to city and even town to town using regional trains, going through the mountains will mean there are less stops and train options, or there may just be no options at all.

I recommend for anyone visiting the Italian Alps either rent a car or plan to book a tour that handles transportation throughout the day’s activities.

Bus travel is also an option, but comes with its own challenges: one, understanding regional bus routes in a short period of time, and two, using coach buses means you’ll get dropped off in one spot and you don’t have much freedom to travel around.

Here’s a more in-depth look at how to get around northern Italy:

There are both national train lines and regional train lines, meaning you are well-connected between the major cities and there are also options to reach smaller towns. Trains are generally easy to navigate, so tourists shouldn’t be intimidated.

They aren’t as cheap as buses, but they’re less expensive than renting a car.

If you’re planning on taking a train around northern Italy, read all my Italy train travel tips so you know exactly how to prepare.

• Mid-range price compared to bus and rental car travel
• Well-connected between cities and towns (regional trains)
• Can be less flexible

I use Omio for purchasing train tickets or go straight to the Trenitalia website .

Italy does not have a national bus line, so most buses are only regional or city. However, coach bus companies like Flixbus operate throughout the country and Europe, so you could travel between regions using their service.

Read about all of your options and how to navigate bus lines in my guide on buses in Italy .

Buses are usually the cheapest option for getting around , as Flixbus tickets are as low as $5. However, the travel time is the longest.

With regional buses you can typically reach small towns, while with Flixbus, you’ll mostly be limited to cities.

If you’re thinking of using regional or city buses, the real challenge is understanding the routes and planning your itinerary around the timetables.

I would only use the bus option if you are opting for a slow travel itinerary and have lots of time to spend in Italy, this way you save money but aren’t wasting half your vacation trying to figure out the buses.

Bus can also be a flexible and inexpensive option for airport transfer.

• Can be super cheap & is overall less expensive
• Least flexible
• Takes time to understand routes of regional or city buses
• Longest travel time

What’s more exciting than an Italy road trip ? It truly is the best way to visit the country and enjoy just how vastly different the landscapes are across the peninsula.

Renting a car in Italy is the most flexible yet most expensive option for traveling around northern Italy. If you’re hoping to visit many places that aren’t major cities or tourist spots, then I would absolutely recommend renting a car.

Any of these itineraries can be turned into a road trip itinerary – like I said, the country is best experienced by road trip!

• Most flexible
• Most comfortable
• Most expensive
• Have to get used to driving in Italy

5 Northern Italy Itineraries You Should Steal

The bucket list northern italy itinerary.

If you’re someone who’s embarking on their once-in-a-lifetime trip to Italy, this itinerary is for you. Hit the 5 major areas on everyone’s northern Italy bucket list.

• Cinque Terre

There is an airport in both Venice and Milan so you could start your itinerary in either place. Both these cities will be your home base on this itinerary.

Book your stay in Milan and spend time exploring the city, while using the next few days to visit Cinque Terre and Lake Como as day trips. Curious about more spots to hit? Discover more day trips from Mi lan to beef up your itinerary.

Then you’ll head to Venice, from which you can do a day trip to the Dolomites.

If you’re working with a 10 day northern Italy trip, you can make it simple by spending two days in each place, or do as I’m suggesting using Milan and Venice as your home bases to explore more with day trips.

Here are some in-depth guides to help you plan exactly what to do in each destination:

• Milan in 24 hours
• One Day Cinque Terre Itinerary
• Lake Como in One Day: Varenna & Bellagio
• 3 Day Dolomites Itinerary
• Where to Stay in the Dolomites
• Unique Things To Do in Venice

Check out this Google Maps Trip Planner with extra itinerary suggestions:

Explore the Italian Alps

Outdoor enthusiasts will fall in love with the Italian Alps. Whether you like hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, the mountains are paradise.

The great thing is that even this itinerary is worthwhile for people who aren’t nature lovers but love the mountain landscape. You could engage in sports or you could visit to admire the views!

Here are the itinerary stops:

• Western Alps: Courmayeur, Gran Paradiso National Park, Breuil-Cervinia
• Central Alps : Lake Como, Bergamo, Val Brembana
• Eastern Alps: Dolomites

This epic northern Italy itinerary begins in Valle D’Aosta, the smallest and most underrated of Italy’s regions. The entire area is made up of the Western Alps. You’ll find both French and Italian are spoken here because of how close the two countries are. But the true draw is the landscape!

Start as far west as possible in Courmayeur to visit Mont Blanc and the Val Ferret. Then explore Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso , the oldest national park in Italy, before heading north to the tiny town turned ski haven Breuil-Cervinia to see Monte Cervino – otherwise known as the Matterhorn !

Making your way from the Western Alps, you’ll cross Milan, Lake Como, and Bergamo in the Central Alps . Lake Como is a must stop also for mountain lovers: the peaks soaring above the lake are breathtaking. Dive deeper into the Val Brembana to the north of Bergamo to visit the villages of Branzi and Cornello dei Tasso.

Then head over to the Dolomites: the most unique of mountains with jagged grey peaks surrounded by the absolutely stunning valleys and green hills of Trentino Alto-Adige.

Check out the map to see this sample itinerary and extra suggestions on where to visit:

North Italy City-Breaks

Some travelers can’t get enough of a historic, bustling European city and Italy is rich with them.

From metropolitan Milan to the medieval hilltop city of Bergamo, the major cities in Italy all offer a different landscape to be explored.

The stops on this north Italy itinerary include:

You’ll probably start this itinerary in Milan, given that the most major airports are located just outside the city. However, if you’re flying from within Europe, you may want to consider flying into Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, which is a hub for Ryanair flights.

Regardless, these two sister cities are only 40 minutes apart by car, but exhibit completely different landscapes. Milan is bustling, crowded, the energy is always high.

Bergamo is big in size, but quaint in spirit. Life moves just a little bit slower, especially up in Città Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the medieval, historic old town that rests on a hilltop overlooking the more economic center, Città Bassa.

Head west to Turin , a financial and cultural hub like Milan, stylized by Baroque-style architecture and the famed Mole Antonelliana.

Head east and end your itinerary in Venice. There’s not much I need to explain as to why Venice is a good city-break: the uniqueness of its landscape and how it affects every aspect of life from transportation to food is crazy to experience in person.

Check out more in-depth locations for the perfect city-break itinerary to northern Italy on the map:

Most Romantic Places for Couples

It’s no secret Italy is one of the most romantic countries in the world to visit, so I’ve also curated a North Italy itinerary perfect for couples, whether on honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a romantic trip.

Between wine, fairytale villages, and intimate vistas, you’ll be feeling the Italian romance.

Here are some of the most romantic places in Italy :

• Portovenere
• Franciacorta

Portovenere is an underrated hidden gem on the coast of Liguria. From the views to the quiet harbor to the unreal swimming spots like Lord Byron’s Grotto and the untouched beaches of Palmeria Island , it’s a lover’s paradise and exudes Italian charm. Nearby Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure are a few extra stop ideas.

It’s no secret Lake Como is one of the most luxurious destinations in Italy and its exclusivity, plus the incredible views of villas and alpine peaks, makes it an intimate retreat. Make it easier to visit using my Lake Como budget tips , but don’t be afraid to indulge in visiting its most romantic places like Villa del Balbianello and the town of Bellagio .

The Tuscany of northern Italy? Franciacorta . Franciacorta is a territory between Bergamo and Brescia that produces sparkling wine or “spumante”, mostly Prosecco, Italy’s version of Champagne. If you love the idea of vineyard views on end and wine tasting with your partner, it must be added to your romantic itinerary.

Not far from Franciacorta is the region of Veneto, where the next half of the itinerary lies. Verona is the ultimate city of romance in Italy: the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, made up of rose-hued buildings and castles nestled over the Adige River.

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, but its small, cascading hillside towns make the atmosphere intimate. Visit Sirmione for its enchanting castle and Limone sul Garda for its quiet charm. Curious for more ideas? Read about all the best towns on Lake Garda .

Last stop for lovers: Venice! You can’t take a romantic trip to Italy without enjoying the swoon-worthy, picturesque atmosphere of Venice. Gondola ride for two?

Discover more specific destinations for loved-up travelers on the map:

A Foodie’s Northern Italy Itinerary

Italian food is in a league of its own, but you’ll soon find out when visiting northern Italy that the traditional dishes are not pasta and pizza.

Instead, the meals are heartier, which reflect the lifestyle of the historic types of people living here: industrial workers or those living in the Alps having to face long winters.

People in northern Italy also love their local ingredients. Here are some foods to try in every region on this itinerary:

• Truffles in Piemonte
• Seafood, Focaccia, & Pesto in Liguria
• Polenta in Bergamo
• Spaghetti alla bolognese in Bologna

Starting in Piemonte, the speciality is one of the most expensive and luxurious foods in the world: truffles ! The best time to visit is in the fall, also when the White Truffle Festival takes place in Alba. I highly recommend booking a tour with a local guide for the unique experience of hunting for truffles and do a Barolo wine tasting.

Next stop is Liguria for fresh seafood, focaccia, and pesto ! You can pretty much walk into any bakery in Liguria and get an amazing piece of focaccia. I love simple focaccia, made with just oil, but the bread is so versatile that you’ll find many different versions. The other dish I ordered at every restaurant in Liguria: Trofie al Pesto.

After heading to the sea, return to the mountains around the area of Bergamo. Here you’ll find two specialties: polenta and pizzoccheri. Polenta is a versatile grain made plain, with cheese or as Polenta Contadina, made with cheese, spinach, and local sausage. Pizzoccheri are a mix of short buckwheat tagliatelle pasta, potatoes, cheese, and greens. It comes from Valtellina, a valley in Lombardy bordering Switzerland.

Your last stop on this itinerary is tapping into a bit of central Italy territory, but it is a must stop for foodies. Bologna is the origin of many Italian food favorites : Parmigiano Reggiano, Mortadella, Ragù Bolognese, Balsamic Vinegar and Lasagne. Arrive on an empty stomach and take a traditional food tour !

Check out the map with extra suggestions:

The SGTD Take

I could go on and on about all of the beautiful places to visit in northern Italy, but this post would then be at least 10,000 words. I highly suggest taking a look at the embedded maps to discover places worth adding to your itinerary based on the amount of time you have available.

Also take advantage of the linked posts within this article to discover individual destinations in depth and ultimately allow you to plan your trip better.

Northern Italy is a diverse landscape: mountains, sea, lakes, floating cities, metropolitan centers, food-rich countrysides. It’s hard to fit it all into one trip, but hopefully you’ve found the perfect itinerary for your trip to northern Italy or at least sparks of inspiration!

Which itinerary is on your bucket list? Leave a comment!

Italy Trip Planning Resources

• Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
• Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
• Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
• Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
• Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
• Accessories : I always travel with this portable charger to stay connected and with a universal adapter to accommodate Italy’s plug types.
• Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

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If you head out on your adventure using one of these itineraries or have questions for curating a totally customized itinerary, share with me – I’d love to hear how your trip has gone or help you further plan your dream northern Italy itinerary !

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and memorable itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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Hi Michela, I would love some suggestions on a 14 day itinerary to Northern Italy. We are coming from the West Coast of the US (California). This is our second trip. Our first trip we visited Rome, Florence, Bologna, Venice, Genoa/Cinque Terre. We would really like to visit Bologna and Florence again and have to add Verona for sure due to business (just 1 day business meeting). I’d also like to see Lake Como, Lake Guardia, Dolomites and Piedmont but know we can’t fit it all in and I’m ok with making another trip some day. I was thinking of flying into Rome due to convenience and cost and flying out of Milan mostly due to convenience. We are not opposed to flying in and or out of any airport as long as it makes sense. I would love to hear your suggestions for an itinerary and how long to spend in each place

Those are all amazing places to visit! Since they are very concentrated in northern Italy, I would suggest flying roundtrip in and out of Milan. But if the price is better in Rome, you could always take a train to a major northern Italian city or find a cheap flight with RyanAir, for example.

As far as how long to spend in each place, here are my recommendations for a minimum amount of stay based on how much there is to do in each place (& my personal favorite spots!):

– Piedmont: at least 2 nights (Piedmont is a large region, so depending on how much you want to see, you could easily extend this a couple of nights) – Lake Como: at least 1 night – Bologna: at least 1 night – Florence: at least 2 nights – Verona: at least 1 night – Lake Garda: at least 1 night (or even a day trip from Verona & you stay in Verona 2 nights) – Dolomites: at least 2-3 nights

Planning the best order of visiting these places will depend on what airport you end up flying into, as well as what day your business meeting falls on! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out again!

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October 20, 2021

2 Weeks Northern Italy by Train

Italy is one of my favourite countries in Europe , there are such gorgeous cities, beaches and countryside to see, so when my plans for two weeks spent between Portugal and Morocco fell through, I decided instead to head to northern Italy for the two full weeks. I’ve been to Italy loads throughout my childhood, we used to drive down to Lake Orta from England with family friends every year, but I’d NEVER been to any of the main cities! So I wanted to make the most of my two weeks, and see as many places as I could! Below is my itinerary for the two weeks and which places to visit in Italy .

Getting around

As I was pretty flexible on destination, I found super cheap flights with British Airways flying one way to Milan from London Heathrow, and then back from Venice. Whilst in Italy, I travelled between each city by train – not only was this a really affordable way to get around, it also means you get to see the beautiful views as you travel across the country.

I find that Italy can be as cheap or as expensive as you make it – it really varies! Of course, it will depend on the type of accommodation you choose, where you eat, how much wine you drink (and so on). The flights cost me £35 each with British Airways, and the trains (8 in total) cost just over £120.

The Interrail or Eurail pass makes travel by train throughout Europe extremely affordable! They offer a one month pass, specific to Italy which starts from €105. On the Interrail website, you simply choose how many travel days you want to use within one month, and voila. If you fly in and out of different cities in Italy, you can use the cheapest option (3 days within 1 month) and visit a total of 5 cities!

Bellagio – Lake Como

Although I  flew into Milan, I  got the train to the city, then switched trains to Varenna (Lake Como) which took about an hour and a half, and then hopped on a ferry from Varenna to Bellagio. Obviously there are loads of places to visit in Lake Como, and Varenna itself was beautiful, but I’d had my eyes set on Bellagio, and for good reason!

I definitely recommend staying here for a night or two, it is quite quiet so don’t expect too much in terms of nightlife, but its full of really cute shops and great restaurants. You could even hope back on the ferry and spend a day exploring a few other towns on the lake. You can also easily do a day trip here from Milan if you don’t want to spend on a hotel (it was quite expensive compared to the other places I went to in Italy)

After two nights in Bellagio and a day spent back in Varenna, I headed back to Milan for two nights. To be honest, Milan was my least favourite out of each place I visited, I just felt like aside from seeing the main square with the Duomo and visiting the shopping centre, there wasn’t loads to do..

Next stop was Bologna, and it was a very welcome surprise! I hadn’t spoken to anyone who had visited before, so other than seeing lots of pictures of gorgeous orange-roofed buildings, I had absolutely no preconceptions. Honestly, I fell in love with Bologna and feel like it is such an underrated city! I only spent one night in Bologna, which was enough, but you could stay for longer and explore a bit more for sure!

I jumped on a train from Bologna to Florence at about 2pm and it took less than an hour, which was great as it meant I had a lot of time to see a bit more of Bologna, without arriving late into Florence. Florence was probably the city I was most excited for, and it did not disappoint! It is gorgeous everywhere, and I loved it so much I’ve already been back since.

Read more: A Weekend Guide to Florence, Italy

There are loads of great restaurants, my favourites are Acqua Al 2 (order the pasta tasting menu – you get 5 different pastas), and L’Ortone – both are really reasonably priced and serve incredible food. I also recommend heading up to the Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset (or sunrise if you’re an early bird). Bring food, wine, sit on the steps and enjoy the gorgeous views of Florence. Get there slightly early though, it gets busy in the summer months!

My next stop after Florence was Pisa, of course I had to tick off seeing the leaning tower! I stayed overnight in Pisa but as it’s only an hour on the train from Florence, I would recommend just spending half a day and then moving on, as there is not much to do here. Once you’ve seen the tower, you can walk the 3km city walls, but aside from that I didn’t feel like the city had much to offer. I would recommend going purely to see the leaning tower though:

Another city I absolutely loved! I was worried that Rome would be over-hyped and over-crowded, but I actually really liked it. I stayed nearer the Vatican, but easily walked everywhere, only getting the Tube from Roma Centro to my apartment. I’m not going to lie, even in the middle of September there were masses of crowds, especially at the Colosseum and the Vatican, but it doesn’t take away from all of the amazing things there is to see in such a historic city.

One tip: if you really want to see the Trevi Fountain (which I did) go early on in your stay – I left it until my last day in Rome (I think it was a Tuesday or Wednesday) and it was switched off for cleaning so there was no water in it – I was gutted! So if you go early in your stay, you can re-visit if the same happens to you.

My final stop was Venice, which was where I was flying home from. I’d heard very mixed things about Venice, some love it, others hate it, some think it’s beautiful and some think it smells. So, I really had no idea was to expect and to be honest I was expecting to hate it! But it was probably the most surprising for me out of all of my stops, because I loved it. Despite the terrible weather (it rained the whole time I was there) I couldn’t get bored of walking down all the tiny streets and crossing all the canals. The only thing that let me down about Venice was the food – so if you have any good recommendations for restaurants in Venice let me know!

Maybe I was just high on pizza, pasta and wine for my entire trip because I realise I’ve said I loved pretty much every place I visited, but Italy is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world, especially when it comes to cities, which are usually grey and ugly. I’m glad I saw Milan and Pisa, but I wouldn’t go back to them, and to be honest I’m still itching to see sooo many more places in Italy, so I’m sure you’ll see another Italy guide in the future – hopefully a little further south (I’m dying to visit the Amalfi Coast).

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Northern Italy itinerary (10 days)

Veneto Region Last Updated · Aug 12th, 2024 · Maddy [post_comments before=""] -->

Welcome to this comprehensive guide featuring my 10 day Northern Italy itinerary.

Whether you’re embarking on your first journey around this side of the country, or are a seasoned traveller looking to have the most refined experience, I believe this itinerary is perfect if you want to visit the main cities and towns in north east Italy .

This itinerary is designed to take you away from Venice, where the tour starts, and lead you through the picturesque landscapes of Veneto and Lombardy .

If your travel dreams include going for morning strolls along the shores of Lake Garda and discovering the charming mediaeval streets of Verona, then look no further!

This itinerary is just what you’re looking for. Join me, a girl born and bred in Veneto, on a journey that promises to unveil the beauty and charm of Northeast Italy .

What's in this guide?

In this northern Italy itinerary guide, I’ve tried to include the top destinations to not miss in northern Italy , especially if you’re interested in exploring the Veneto region .

I created a handy map that shows every stop of this itinerary. I’ll also explain how you can get around northern Italy , share some transportation tips, and finally my suggested itinerary with ideas on things to do and see for every destination .

Northern Italy itinerary map

I have created an itinerary map below. To download this Northern Italy itinerary map, simply click on it and Google Maps will automatically save it to your maps .

Keep it handy and use it as a resource to refer back to whenever you need, before and during your trip. To help you even more, I also included the must-see attractions for every single destination , so you have everything in one place!

How to get around Northern Italy

Getting around Northern Italy by car and public transport is as easy as can be. If you prefer to have flexibility and complete freedom , the best option is a car rental .

Completing this itinerary in low season or during the shoulder seasons is more convenient because you can find good deals with several car rentals. Highways in northern Italy are well-maintained but you pay tolls to access them.

As you can imagine, the main perk of driving is to stop as many times as you want and make some detours if you feel like it (or even stop off for snacks).

I also want to encourage renting a car to explore the Dolomites and Lake Garda . There are many lovely villages in both locations and all close one the other.

Despite their closeness, it can take some time to get from one place to the other by public transport. That’s why the car is the best option for these specific destinations.

Northern Italy by Train

For my readers that are not considering driving in Italy, you can still reach every location mentioned on this itinerary. Trenitalia and Italo high-speed trains can take you from Venice to Verona and then onto Lake Garda and Milan in no time.

From Venice, I recommend joining a tour or getting the bus to the Dolomites and arriving in Cortina. You can easily get to Lake Garda from Verona and vice versa by train or by bus . The positive side of travelling by train is that you don’t have to think about parking once you get to the destination, and just start your exploration!

For this itinerary I suggest combining both modes of transport as you can quite easily rent a car in Venice that will allow you to reach the Dolomites in 2 hours.

Once there, you can explore alpine villages at your own pace and then drive down Lake Garda. Here you can continue your road trip along the scenic Gardesana Orientale road and stop along the way to visit different lakeside villages and towns.

You can drop the car in Verona, visit the city and then get a high-speed train to Milan. After exploring Milan, you can simply get another high-speed train and travel back to Venice where this itinerary ends.

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10 days in Northern Italy itinerary

With no further ado, let’s dive straight into this 10 days in Northern Italy itinerary and find out how you can spend your time in this magical part of the country!

Before getting into this, I’d like to clarify that this itinerary starts and ends in Venice so you can plan your travel around one of the airports near Venice if you choose.

However, feel completely free to readapt it based on your arrival and departure airports that could alternatively be Verona or even Milan (see examples below):

• Milano Malpensa,
• Milano Linate,
• Milano Bergamo.

As always, if you need my help and another pair of eyes to look at your itinerary/plan, or need more personalised plans, just email me at [email protected] .

Now…Let’s go!

Venice (Day 1 & 2)

For the first two days (day 1 and 2) of this northern Italy itinerary you’ll explore the unique streets and piazzas of Venice to get yourself acquainted with the region.

The city of canals and bridges is packed with things to do and see and 2 days are definitely not enough but you can certainly get a glimpse into its timeless beauty.

Since you’re currently planning your trip to northern Italy, I invite you to read my popular 2 days in Venice itinerary which contains a full schedule and personal tips.

While in Venice, don’t miss:

• St. Mark’s Basilica: the religious heart of Venice, you can marvel at the outstanding Byzantine architecture and intricate golden mosaics covering its facade. For just 3 euros, you can get to visit the inside too.
• Doge’s Palace: the former residence of Venice’s doge, the chief magistrate of Venice. It’s adorned with masterpieces by Titian and Tintoretto. No visit is complete without crossing the Bridge of Sighs. I recommend booking a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace and skip the lines.
• Gondola ride on the Grand Canal: a gondola ride lasts around 30 minutes so you can easily fit one in. I recommend getting the gondola from less touristy locations but with scenic routes, like from the pier Santa Maria del Giglio.
• Rialto Bridge and market: one of the best places to take pictures of the Grand Canal! The Rialto bridge and market are the most vibrant places in Venice and the best to find fresh fish and seafood for your meals.

With 2 days in Venice you can indulge in some of the must-eat Venetian foods , visit the famous Libreria Acqua Alta and other lesser known gems, but also go for a stroll around the neighbourhoods of Dorsoduro and San Polo.

Where to stay in Venice

Here’s my personal selection of recommended places to stay in Venice:

• Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel ($$$) : a stunning 16th-century palace inside and out, overlooking the Grand Canal with a in-house 2 Michelin star restaurant.
• Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo ($$) : a 3 star hotel housed in a Venetian palace, only 10 minutes walk from the train station and Piazzale Roma.
• Alla Corte Rossa ($) : this lovely B&B is only 2 minutes walk from the vibrant Campo Santa Margherita, in Dorsoduro. The perfect neighbourhood to enjoy the most authentic side of Venice.

There are so many other options, as you can imagine. See my guide that looks at where to stay in Venice in more detail to review more types of accommodation.

The Dolomites (Day 3 & 4)

The following stop of this itinerary are the beautiful Dolomites. This mountain range extends for nearly 16000 km in north east Italy , more precisely in the Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige regions.

From Venice, you can either join one of the organised day trip tours to Dolomites that will take you back to Venice once finished.

Alternatively, you can get the Cortina Express bus from Piazzale Roma that takes between 2 to 3 hours to get to Cortina . The bus stops in different places along the way such as Valle di Cadore, Borca di Cadore and San Vito di Cadore.

I suggest hiring a car in Venice (or Mestre) and driving to a village of your choice in the Dolomites. Any village near Cortina d’Ampezzo is perfect to explore the entire area. See my guide to driving in Venice for more ideas on how you can plan ahead.

These are some of the unmissable things to do in the Dolomites:

• Trek the Tre Cime di Lavaredo: this group of mountains never fails to mesmerise people. I went hiking around the area a couple of times in the past and absolutely recommend it!
• Get the cable car to Cinque Torri: take a scenic ride up to Cinque Torri for panoramic views of the Dolomites. If you’re into rock climbing you can embark on this activity too.
• Marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Sorapis: I also completed this hike in the past and have a vivid memory of this glacial lake. Over the years, tourists have taken over this place, but it’s still worth planning a trek to visit it (avoid the crowds by travelling on weekdays).
• Visit Lake Misurina: It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks and to take in the beauty of this side of the Dolomites.

Where to stay in the Dolomites near Cortina d’Ampezzo

Here’s my personal selection of places to stay in or near Cortina d’Ampezzo:

• HOTEL de LEN $$$ : it’s a 4-star hotel only 200 metres away from Cortina’s city centre. Check out the spectacular views you can enjoy from this property!
• B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina $$ : this cosy B&B is near Misurina Lake, the Tre Cime of Lavaredo, the Sorapis Lake. It’s basically the perfect place to stay to start exploring the side of the Dolomites.
• Albergo Chalet Lago Antorno $ : the property overlooks the Antorno lake offering lovely views. It blends perfectly the typical alpine style with stylish and modern furniture.

Lake Garda (Day 6 & 7)

From the Dolomites, drive down to Lake Garda, your next destination of this northern Italy itinerary. By car you drive along the Gardesana Orientale road and visit a couple of villages and towns of your choice.

Some places you can stop by along the way arriving from the Dolomites are:

• Torri del Benaco;
• Lazise sul Garda;
• Peschiera del Garda;

Lake Garda, which is also called Lake Benaco (did you know?) is located in north east Italy and it’s the largest lake in the country . Its coasts belong to 3 different regions: Veneto, Trentino Alto Adige and Lombardy.

By following this itinerary you’ll cover the main locations worth visiting on Veneto’s side . If you happen to have more time on your hands, you can also take a look at my Lake Garda itinerary if you want see how I recently spent my time here.

Here’s some ideas on what you can do in each place:

• Malcesine: Take the cable car up to Monte Baldo to enjoy spectacular views over Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.
• Torri del Benaco: Visit the Scaliger Castle, the mediaeval castle and stroll around the streets and piazzas of this charming village.
• Bardolino: this town is famous for its wine production. You can visit a local vineyard to taste Bardolino wine and learn about the traditional wine-making process.
• Lazise sul Garda: spend a day at the Thermal Park at Villa dei Cedri or simply visit the picturesque Lungolago Marconi, the promenade from where you can capture incredible sunset pictures.
• Peschiera del Garda: this town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for the impressive fortifications and charming canal-lined streets.
• Sirmione: here you can visit the Scaliger Castle, the Grotte di Catullo and the thermal baths.

Where to stay in Lake Garda

Here’s my personal selection of recommended places to stay in Lake Garda:

• Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme $$$ : this 4 star hotel in Bardolino is a brand new retreat space perfect for anyone looking for a luxurious stay and to make the most of the extensive spa facilities.
• Bardoliners $$ : this lovely guest house is just in front of the beach of Bardolino and you can find good deals even if booking last minute!
• Hotel Castello S. Antonio $ : is only 1.6 km from Lazise sul Garda. From this top rated property you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the lake and the surrounding hills.

Verona (Day 5)

From the southern shores of Lake Garda, you can reach Verona in less than 30 minutes and start your exploration of the famous City of Love.

Verona is known for:

• The beautiful Roman amphitheatre called Arena di Verona ;
• The vibrant Piazza delle Erbe where you can stroll among the lively market stall and admire the towering Torre dei Lamberti, and Piazza dei Signori with at its centre the monument to Dante Alighieri;
• Castelvecchio, Verona’s castle and most important defensive construction of the Scaliger family;
• The Scaliger tombs , just a few steps away from Piazza dei Signori.

After dropping off your car, you can spend the rest of your time exploring all these attractions during your day 5.

Everything in Verona is within walking distance and you can get the Verona city card and skip the line access to the Arena and visit Juliet’s house and other city museums.

I also recommend going for a walk along the Adige river , crossing the Ponte Pietra and getting the cable car or walking up to Castel San Pietro . From there, you can admire incredible views of Verona from above and it’s a popular spot around sunset.

Milan (Day 8 & 9)

From Verona Porta Nuova, you can get a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train to Milano Centrale , where you’ll spend 2 days.

Milan is a cosmopolitan city, also called the Fashion capital city and you’ll pretty soon understand why, simply walking around its streets.

Despite its modern look, there’s a lot of history and architectural masterpieces to explore during your time here.

Here’s what you can do in 2 days in Milan:

• Duomo di Milano: visit the impressive Gothic cathedral that stands at the heart of Milan. You can also get to its rooftop terrace from where you can enjoy amazing panoramic views of the whole city and beyond.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: the 19th-century arcade features majestic glass and iron roofs and it happens to be one of the world’s oldest shopping malls in the world too!
• Sforza Castle: this is Milan’s castle that houses museums and art collections.
• Santa Maria delle Grazie: this church that looks like many others is actually home to Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important artistic sites in the world.
• Navigli district: no stay in Milan is complete without indulging in the much beloved Milanese’s happy hour. Just go for a stroll down the Navigli promenade and stop for a drink (or two) along the way.

The rest of your time, I suggest going for long walks in the Brera district , in the Sempione park and do some (window) shopping in the Quadrilatero district and Corso Venezia.

Where to stay in Milan

Here’s my personal selection of recommended places to stay in Milan:

• Sonder Missori $$$ : only a few minutes walk from Duomo, the 4 star property features modern apartment that blend contemporary style with comfort.
• Zebra Naviglio $$ : located in the Navigli neighbourhood, Zebra Naviglio is a boutique 3 star guest house with artistic flair and modern amenities.
• Hotel Repubblica $ : located near Milan’s central train station and major shopping districts, this 2 star hotel is the ideal choice for budget travellers.

Venice (Day 10)

From Milano Centrale, you can travel back to Venice, the starting point of this 10 day itinerary by high-speed train. You’ll arrive at Santa Lucia train station .

Depending on what time your flight is, you can either get a bus or water bus to Marco Polo airport or spend some extra time in Venice , exploring the neighbourhood of Cannaregio .

I like to recommend that visitor to Venice go to Cannaregio because it is one of the closest districts to the station and one of the best to explore with limited time.

Here in Cannaregio neighbourhood you can:

• Walk past the Ponte delle Guglie ;
• Visit the Jewish Ghetto , the oldest ghetto in the world;
• Do some bacari hopping along Rio della Misericordia. Take a look at my Cannaregio walking bacari map to learn more!

To make sure you have all in order for the airport, check my guides to find out how to get from Venice city centre to Marco Polo airport or from Venice to Treviso airport .

This Northern Italy itinerary is perfect if you have 10 days to explore this side of the country, and even better if have a special interest in the Veneto region.

The good news is that you can choose to complete it by train, by car or ideally, combining these 2 modes of transport . What I like, and I think you will like about it too, is all the diverse landscapes that you get to visit in such a short span of time.

With it’s starting point in Venice, then heading up on over to the majestic Dolomites, then to some of the charming villages that surround Lake Garda and the rich cities of Verona and Milan, this itinerary has literally it all!

Feel free to complete the itinerary in reverse and change the arrival or even the departure airport (if necessary) to make it fit to your exact needs.

Also, if you have more time in Italy to spend, why not see this list of some of my favourite cities in Veneto for ideas on places that you can visit while in the region?

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I love to share tips, advice and resources to help visitors explore Venice and the Veneto region like a local. Learn more about me here.

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10 Day Italy Itinerary: See the Best by Train

You have just 10 days to explore Italy and want to make the most of your time.  The perfect 10 day Italy itinerary will have you seeing as much as possible but not heading home feeling like you need another holiday to get over the holiday.

This is where touring Italy by train is the perfect choice for you!

If you’re from the US, Australia or maybe other parts of the world, you will know that our countries long distance rail systems are not what you would call efficient, time or money saving. Visit Europe or Asia and you will wonder why we just can’t seem to get it right because really it seems so simple over there.

Europe is perfect for train travel and Italy is no exception. In my option train travel is the best way to see Italy because services are fast, efficient, reasonably priced and generally run on time.

Being able to hop on the train in the centre of one place and arrive in the centre of another in a matter of hours is much more convenient and less stressful that negotiating busy airports. The seats and carriages are clean and comfortable plus you get to spend some time relaxing and gazing out the window watching the stunning scenery pass by.

Italy’s train network runs to every major city and most smaller cities and towns making it easy to get from place to place. There is a lot to see, but with only 10 days in Italy you will need to be selective in the places you visit.

So, I’ve put together what I think is the perfect itinerary for Italy in 10 days by train.

This Italy train itinerary takes in three of the country’s major cities, and offers plenty of time for day trips to nearby regions. It gives you just enough time to see the major sights in each place without making you rush around from place to place.

Day 1 to 4 – Rome

Day 1 arrival in Rome. This Italy itinerary assumes that you arrive in the morning (or ideally the evening before) giving you most of a day to start seeing the sights.

Start off your Italy in day 10 days itinerary in Rome, the capital of Italy and once capital of the Roman Empire. This sprawling city is famous for its Roman ruins, incredible architecture, collection of world class artworks and home to the worlds smallest country, Vatican City.

What to See & Do in Rome

Vatican City – The home of the pope and catholic church. Inside you will find incredible architecture and world class art including Michelangelo’s famous painted ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Take a small group guided tour of the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica to save you time queuing for hours. The Vatican is not to be missed on your Italy in 10 days itinerary.

The Colosseum –  Not to be missed on your 10 day trip to Italy, the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire and the world. While not still in tact today, it still gives a fascinating glimpse into its past. Book a guided tour (which includes the Forum below too!) to skip the queues and learn from an expert.

Roman Forum – As the heart of ancient Rome, the Forum was, and still is, one of the most celebrated meeting places in the history of the world. Your ticket to the Colosseum also includes entry to the Forum where you can wander around the ruins and take a walk up Palatine Hill for views over the Forum and the city.

The Pantheon – One of the best preserved Roman buildings remaining in the world. What is most incredible about the Pantheon is that most of its original features remain including the marble floors.

Spanish Steps – The worlds most famous staircase is constantly abuzz with people day and night.

Trevi Fountain – Do as the legend says and throw a coin in the fountain to ensure you one day return to Rome.

Piazza Navona – On this Italy trip itinerary you’ll find lots of square to visit, but this one, in my mind, is the best. Rome’s most beautiful square, Piazza Navona, features three spectacular fountains and surrounded by some of the city’s best baroque architecture.

Rome’s Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is one of the best I’ve taken around the world. The routes cover everything you could possibly want to see in Rome and passes last for 24, 48 or 72 hours giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Pre-purchase your tickets here to avoid the queues and save.

Where to Stay in Rome

Here are three accommodation options in Rome to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Casa Totti

Mid-Range – Al Viminale Hill Inn and Hotel

Luxury – Bio Hotel Raphael Relais and Chateaux

Read More About Rome

30 Things to Do in Rome

Day 5 to 7 – Florence

Train : Rome to Florence – from 1.5 hours with over 100 direct services per day. Take an early morning departure from Rome to maximise your time in Florence.

Next stop on your 10 day Italy trip is Florence. This Renaissance city in the heart of one of the most beautiful regions in the world, Tuscany. It is home to some of Italy’s most incredible churches and some of the worlds most famous works of art.

What to See & Do in Florence

Duomo, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – This massive cathedral in the heart of Florence is a must see for it’s pink and green marble exterior, interior that holds 20,000 people and bell tower which you can climb for views over Florence.

Piazza della Signoria – The heart of Florence’s old town. Visit to see the free open-air sculpture gallery including a copy of Michelangelo’s David and to check out the impressive medieval Palazzo Vecchio.

Pont Vecchio – The best Italy itinerary has to include Florence’s first bridge, built over the Arno river in 1345 and the only one that survived WWII bombing of the city. It is lined with shops selling gold and silver jewellery. Make sure you view it from one of the adjacent bridges as well as walk over it.

Galleria delgi Uffizi – As you travel around Italy you’ll likely come across lots of incredible and famous works of art, but no where is in Italy can you see so many in one place than you can at Uffizi. Home to the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art including painting, sculptures and tapestries from medieval times up to the modern day. (Don’t miss out, with a timed entry ticket !)

Galleria dell’ Academia – If you want to see the original Michelangelo’s David, then this is where you will find it. Along with this famous statue are paintings and sculptures from the 13th to 16th centuries as well as a collection of instruments started by the Medici family. (Pre-book a timed entry ticket to avoid the massive queues!)

Mercato Centrale – If your looking to do a bit of shopping in Italy then this market in Florence is the perfect place to purchase genuine leather goods, souvenirs, antiques and food.

Day Trip to Tuscany – One of the best day trips from Florence is to Tuscany. Enjoy a day outside of the city visiting some of the wineries and hill towns this region is famous for. Check out these tours offered on GetYourGuide . All the best itineraries for Italy will include this spectacular day trip.

Where to Stay in Florence

Here are three accommodation options in Florence to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel Por Santa Maria

Mid-Range – B&B Cimatori

Luxury – Portrait Firenze

Read More About Florence

Things to Do in Florence

Day 8 to 10 – Venice

Train: Florence to Venice – approx. 2 hours with over 15 direct services at day. Take an early morning train from Florence to optimise your time in Venice.

Next up on your Italy travel itinerary is Italy’s sinking city, Venice. Made up of 118 islands connect by bridges and separated by canals, and is literally sinking into the marshy ground it was built on. This northern Italy city is renowned for it’s beauty, architecture and artworks and is best experienced without a map, getting lost in the maze of cobblestone streets.

What to See & Do in Venice

Piazza San Marco – The city’s largest square and main meeting place. It is surrounded by cafes, shops, museums and some of the city’s best architecture. Beware of the very tame pigeons, as you travel around Italy, you’ll see them everywhere but more so here.

Basilica San Marco – Located in Piazza San Marco, this basilica is one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the city. Inside you will find incredible mosaics and paintings by some of the areas best artists. Avoid the queues and book your timed entry ticket in advance here .

The Grand Canal – This is the main and largest canal that snakes it way through the centre of the main island. It’s always busy with boats and barges running up and down carrying goods and people from dock to dock. A great way to do a quick sightseeing tour is by jumping on a vaporetto (Venice’s public transport) at one end and hopping off at the other.

Doge’s Palace – Once the residence of Venetian leaders, now a museum where you can get a glimpse at some of the rooms used in it’s day including stately reception rooms, offices, living quarters, prison cells and torture chambers. (Skip the long queue’s, buy a priority entry ticket !)

Rialto Bridge – This ornamental stone bridge spans the Grand Canal and is the most popular of Venice’s bridges. It’s a very lively spot where you will find shops and markets lining the bridge.

Take a Gondola Ride – While prices for a private gondola ride are close to €100.00 these days, to me, it is still worth the cost for this quintessential Venetian experience. If your lucky to get a chatty gondolier, he will entertain you with stories and maybe even serenade you as you punt along the canals. Most gondola’s seat 6-8 people, so sharing with others is a great way to save money (and so is booking in advance !).

Explore the Islands – Just a short boat ride away from the main island of Venice are a number of popular islands you can explore. Murano is know for it glass makers, Burano it’s canals lined with coloured houses and lace making and Lido is lined with beaches, restaurants and shopping. You can reach all of these islands from the ferry terminal near Piazza San Marco or you could join this three-hour guided tour to see it all with a local!

Where to Stay in Venice

Here are three accommodation options in Venice to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel ai do Mori

Mid-Range – Ca’Dei Dogi

Luxury – Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Read More About Europe

First Timers One Month Europe Itinerary

Train Tickets

While travelling Italy by train is never going to be as cheap as taking a bus, or in some cases flying with a budget airline, it is going to be more comfortable, scenic and time saving.

There is a lot of debate about whether purchasing a rail pass is the most cost effective option when travelling by train in Europe. Really, it all comes down to the amount of travel days you plan on taking during your trip.

For this exact itinerary above (not including day trips), you will have two travel days, Rome to Florence, Florence to Venice, or three travel days if you choose to return to Rome at the end of the trip to fly out. Here are the average prices based on one adult travelling alone for both point to point tickets and rail pass.

Point to Point

Two Travel Days – Adult point to point tickets including seat reservation fee where applicable – €60.00*.

Three Travel Days – Adult point to point tickets including seat reservation fee where applicable – €110.00*.

Adult Italy Rail Pass for up to three days of travel in a one month period – €133.00* plus seat reservation fees where applicable.

The cheapest option by far for this Italy in 10 days itinerary is to purchase point to point tickets .

Visit the Rail Europe website in your country using the links below to purchase tickets.

• Rail Europe USA
• Rail Europe Canada
• Rail Europe Australia
• Rail Europe New Zealand
• Rail Europe – Rest of the World

Alternatively, tickets are available at all Trenitalia train stations across Italy on the day or in advance but prices will likely be higher and there may not be availability for specific trains, especially high speed services.

For a comprehensive guide to Europe train travel I recommend The Man in Seat 61 . Or for an accurate one stop shop of Europe train timetables check out the German Bahn website.

* Prices correct as at time of publishing.

A few things to note:

• Flying into one city and out of another will save you time rather than having to double back to your original destination to fly home. The way airlines work in terms of pricing these day you should not be penalised for doing this.
• Pack light. A backpack or light weight soft case is a good option as it makes getting on an off trains much easier.
• Discounts are available on train tickets when traveling in groups of 2 or more, as a family unit, or for people aged under 26. Prices for point to point tickets above are averaged and may be cheaper or more expensive depending on how far in advance you book and whether there is a sale on at the time.
• Got more than 10 days? Check out my two week Italy itinerary by train .

Over to you!

What is your favourite part of Italy or where are you most keen to visit?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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3 thoughts on “10 Day Italy Itinerary: See the Best by Train”

Thanks so much for posting this.

I am taking my family (daughters 8 and 12) on the train to explore northern italy in April and this has influenced my route.

We are going for two weeks – this is my plan so far. We are nor wanting to stay over in Milan or go to Rome during this trip

The plan is Paris (2nights) to Milan- Lake Guarda (4 nights)- Venice (1) -Florence 2 nights)- Cinque Terre- (3night) – Milan (or Turin) paris home…

Thinking it sounds really busy and alot of travelling. Would love to know your thoughts. Perhaps we could do a day trip to venice or get the train to paris home from there.

Did you do this trip? I want to travel around Italy by train in July. Where would you recommend/avoid? Thanks Sandra

Hi Sandra, Yes I did do this trip and have travelled extensively through Italy. Everything I recommend is in this itinerary and the others on my website. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to get in touch. Cheers Jen

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Do you have a map of train routes in Italy?

Italy's rail network is extensive , reaching nearly every corner of the country. A comprehensive map of Italy's train routes, then, would be prohibitively large, which is why a useful paper map of every single Italian rail line doesn't exist.

The map on this page shows Trenitalia's high-speed rail lines in Italy*, which are the trains most visitors use. There are a few cities not included on this map in the northern part of the country, where the dots are already close enough together to prohibit any further additions, but most destinations served by  Italy's Frecce trains  - the  Frecciarossa ,  Frecciargente , and  Frecciabianca  - are included on this map.

When you're planning a trip through Italy by train, the best way to determine whether a city or town is connected to Italy's rail network is by typing your route into  ItaliaRail's search boxes . Our system recognizes both the English and Italian names for stations and cities, so no matter which you use you'll see an auto-fill option if your destination is served by Trenitalia.

If you do  not  see an auto-fill option for your destination, you can often find an entry for the city or town on Wikipedia. Sometimes, those include a "Transportation" entry, where you may see that a place is not on the rail lines.

If you need further assistance in determining whether your chosen route is possible via train, please  contact our customer service department .

*  It's important to keep in mind that routes change regularly, particularly when it comes to the constantly-expanding high-speed train lines.

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Setting the Scene for Your Italian Adventure 

Are you an adventure traveler yearning for the picturesque landscapes and historic charm of Italy ? Dreaming of hiking through the rolling hills of Tuscany , exploring the rugged coastlines of Cinque Terre , or wandering along the Path of Gods in Amalfi ? For hikers and adventure seekers, Italy offers a unique blend of challenging trails and spectacular scenery that promises an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about traveling to Italy from the US and Canada and getting around once you’re there—perfectly tailored for self-guided hiking and biking adventurers like you.

Traveling to Italy 

The best ways to travel to italy from the us .

Flying to Italy from the US can be done directly or with layovers, depending on your home gateway and budget.  

Direct flights are available to Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence and Naples from major cities including: 

• Atlanta (ATL)  
• Boston (BOS) 
• Charlotte (CLT) 
• Chicago (ORD) 
• Dallas (DFW) 
• Detroit (DTW) 
• Los Angeles (LAX) 
• Miami (MIA) 
• New York (JFK) 
• Philadelphia (PHL) 
• San Francisco (SFO) 
• Washington D.C. (IAD) 

You can often find cheaper options through European hubs such as London, Paris, or Frankfurt. And once you're there, for those looking to reduce their airtime, you can consider alternative modes of transport to take you the rest of the way to Italy. While it may be more time-consuming, traveling by train or bus through Europe can be a scenic and enjoyable experience. Check out some flight-free travel options . 

Choosing Flights from the US to Italy 

Italy is well-connected with international flights from the US. Major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United offer direct flights to various Italian cities. Depending on your destination within Italy, you might land in Rome, Milan, Venice, or Florence. Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the busiest and often the most convenient entry point for travelers planning to explore multiple regions. 

The Best Ways to Travel to Italy from Canada 

Traveling to Italy from Canada can be done directly or with layovers, depending on your home gateway and budget. 

Direct flights are available to Rome and/or Milan from major cities including: 

• Montreal (YUL) 
• Calgary (YYC) 

Choosing Flights from Canada to Italy 

Italy is easily accessible with numerous international flights from Canada. Major airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Alitalia offer direct flights to Italian cities like Rome and Milan. Depending on your destination within Italy, you might land in Venice, Florence, Rome or Milan. Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the busiest and often the most convenient entry point for travelers planning to explore multiple regions. 

Best Airports for Each Region 

Choosing the right airport can save you time and money. For exploring Northern Italy , Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is ideal. If you’re heading to the central regions like Tuscany , Cinque Terre or Umbria , Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Pisa (PSA) or Florence (FLR) will be your best bet. For Southern Italy and the islands, Naples International Airport (NAP) and Palermo (PMO) and Catania-Fontanarossa (CTA) airports in Sicily are the most convenient.  

Refer to the Travel & Transfers section on the individual trip pages on our website for more details on the best way to get to the start of your Macs Adventure trip.

Preparing for the Journey 

Visa requirements and travel documents .

Before you start packing your bags, ensure you have all the necessary travel documents.

• US Citizens: No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Check the US Department of State website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations. 
• Canadian Citizens: Also exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90 days. Check the Canadian Government website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.
• US Citizens: Six months validity recommended, at least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area . Check your passport validity .
• Canadian Citizens: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area . Check your passport validity . 

You’ll be required to show your passports at each accommodation and it’s wise to keep photocopies of your important documents, including your passport and travel insurance, with you at all times. 

Check the US Department of State website or the Canadian Government website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.   

Packing Essentials for All Seasons 

Packing for Italy can be tricky due to its diverse climate. If you’re hiking or biking, comfy and durable footwear is a must. In the summer, lightweight and breathable clothing will keep you cool, while in the spring and fall, layering is key. Don’t forget essentials like a rain jacket, sunscreen, a universal power adapter, a portable battery pack to keep your devices charged and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on your adventures. Many Italian towns and cities are dotted with mountain spring water fountains that are safe to drink from – no need to buy the bottled stuff! 

Check out our hiking packing guide or our biking packing guide for a more thorough, in-depth checklist.

How to Travel Around Italy 

The best ways to travel around italy .

Italy offers numerous ways to get around, each providing a unique perspective of the country. Trains are one of the most popular methods, offering scenic routes and efficient service. Buses are another cost-effective option, especially for reaching smaller towns and rural areas. For those looking for flexibility, renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace. 

Navigating Italy by Train 

Italy boasts an extensive train network that makes it easy to explore from region to region. There are three main categories of trains: regional, national, and high-speed. Regional trains offer a more leisurely way to journey through smaller towns and coastal areas, perfect for soaking in the scenery. National trains connect major cities at a steady pace, while high-speed trains are the star of the show, significantly reducing travel time. The fastest Frecciarossa trains zip between major hubs like Turin, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome, Naples, and Salerno. For slightly slower travel, the Frecciargento trains connect Rome to beautiful destinations like Venice, Verona, Bari, and even the southern regions of Lamezia Terme and Reggio Calabria. When at large train stations, remember to check the departure boards using your train number (instead of your arrival city) to find your platform. Also, double-check your ticket for the correct train car if you've reserved a seat—this little tip will make your travel experience as smooth as possible!

How to Buy Train Tickets in Italy 

Buying train tickets in Italy is straightforward. You can purchase tickets online through platforms like Trenitalia or Italo . We recommend downloading their app for paper-free travel and where you can validate your ticket prior to boarding (required to avoid fines). You can also purchase directly at the train station via automated ticket machines, which usually offer instructions in multiple languages, making the process easy for non-Italian speakers. Booking in advance can save you money and secure your seat, especially on popular routes. 

Navigating Bus Tickets and Local Transport 

For bus travel, websites like FlixBus and local operators provide schedules and ticketing options. Keep in mind that not all buses accept credit cards, so having some euros on hand is advisable. In cities, local transport options like trams, metros, and taxis are readily available. Apps like MyCicero can help you plan routes and purchase tickets for various modes of transport. You can also buy bus tickets from some local Tabacchi shops, which are similar to a 7-Eleven or a small convenience store.  

We always recommend checking for transportation strikes and ensuring your train tickets are valid before traveling. If there are any bumps in the road, our on-trip support team are only a phone call away to lend a hand with any last-minute changes. 

Taxis in Italy 

When it comes to hailing a ride in Italy, traditional taxis are your best bet, as Uber doesn’t operate in most of the country. Taxis are usually available at designated taxi stands, or you can call one to pick you up!  

Here are some top taxi app suggestions that are user-friendly and allow you to book rides conveniently from your smartphone. So, whether you're heading to a train station or exploring a new city, rest assured that getting around will be easy and hassle-free! 

• FreeNow : one of the most popular taxi apps in Italy, it operates in Milan, Naples, Rome, Turin, Catania, Palermo, and Cagliari.   
• ItTaxi : operating in over 95 cities across Italy, its drivers are very knowledgeable and can get you from A to B, no problem! 
• WeTaxi : Operating in over 20 Italian cities, it can find a taxi nearby based on your geolocation. 

The Cinque Terre Travel Card 

For those eager to explore the stunning coastal villages of Cinque Terre, our Cinque Terre hiking trips come with a 3-Day Cinque Terre Train & Trails Card included! This convenient card grants you unlimited access to the trains and hiking trails connecting the five picturesque towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, as well as the bordering villages of Levanto and La Spezia. With incredible views at every turn, you can easily hop from one charming village to the next, all while enjoying the incredible scenery. The card also includes benefits like discounted entry to local attractions and free use of some local buses, making it an empowering way to experience the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace. 

  Sustainable Travel 

Responsible tourism practices .

Being a responsible tourist means respecting local cultures and minimizing your environmental footprint. Avoid single-use plastics, support local businesses, and follow the Leave No Trace principles when hiking. 

We’re working hard to lower our trip’s carbon emissions by collaboration with our local partners. Find out how we calculate our trip’s carbon score and discover more about our sustainable travel journey . 

Italy is a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered. From its bustling cities to its tranquil countryside, there’s something for every type of traveler. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Italian escapades.  

Our Italian adventures are super popular and typically sell out 6-9 months in advance, so we recommend booking a call with one of our travel experts to plan your perfect hiking trip in Italy pronto! 

Remember, whether you’re biking through blissful Puglia , hiking through the Italian Alps or savoring gelato on the Amalfi Coast , Italy promises an adventure of a lifetime. Happy travels! 

To discover more about our Italy hiking and biking trips , head to our Guide to Hiking in Italy for tips, advice and inspiration. 

Amalfi Coastal Trails

Walking Portofino and the Cinque Terre

Hill Towns of Tuscany

Walking in Umbria

• Explore Italy’s Cinque Terre National Park
• Pathways through lemon groves and vineyards
• Chilled limoncello, and freshly caught seafood
• Walk through Umbria, the green heart of Italy
• Remarkable hill top towns of Montefalco and Spell
• An unspoilt region of old-world traditions

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Italy Launches New Sleeper Train Routes From Rome

I taly is redefining the concept of beauty sleep. Ferrovia dello Stato (FS), the country's national railway agency, has expanded its FS Treni Turistici Italiani (Italian tourist trains) lineup with three stunning overnight sleeper routes, connecting Rome with some of the country's most incredible landscapes-the Dolomites, Puglia, and soon, Piedmont. These vintage-styled trains, steeped in history, offer travelers a chance to sleep through the journey and wake up in gorgeous mountain and sea destinations.

The Espresso trains

Announced in 2023 , the Treni Turistici offers three categories of service: Lusso (luxury), Espresso e Storici (express and historic), and Omnibus–Regionali (regional). All three categories are part of a cross-country network that is using older trains on new routes that combine both familiar and lesser-known destinations for day trips and overnight experiences.

The new sleeper trains that travel to vacation hot spots are part of the Espresso lineup, a fleet of refurbished trains from the midcentury through the '80s and '90s. The historic trains have been meticulously restored to offer modern comforts while preserving their nostalgic charm. For instance, train enthusiasts will go wild for the renovated FS E444 Tartaruga, an electric locomotive developed in the 1960s with a unique rounded design and streamlined shape.

The overnight routes

Dreaming of a seaside escape? Some mountain air? Or a lot of barolo? From Rome, you can now embark on overnight Espresso journeys to the serene and striking peaks of the Dolomites, the sun-kissed shores of Puglia, and, starting in October, the rolling hills of Piedmont-just in time for truffle season.

The Espresso Salento train operates from Rome to Lecce, Puglia, through August 31, and the Espresso Cadore , the Rome–Dolomites sleeper route, launched in December and is running through August and will operate again during the forthcoming ski season. The Espresso Langhe Monferrato train will connect Rome to Alba in Italy's northern Piedmont region overnight beginning in October; it is the latest in Treni Turistici's Espresso overnight offerings. FS will be launching additional routes to other regions in Italy in the coming months.

Winter sports enthusiasts will want to book the Espresso Cadore as soon as ski season begins in mid-December. The overnighter whisks travelers from Rome to Cortina d'Ampezzo, one of Italy's most recognized ski resorts and famously depicted in the 1980s spy film For Your Eyes Only. Departing on Friday evenings, the train arrives early Saturday in Calalzo-Pieve di Cadore, which is followed by a dedicated bus transfer to Cortina d'Ampezzo. The train departs back to Rome on Wednesday evenings and arrives in the capital at 7 a.m. the following morning. (Read our full review of the Dolomites Espresso train experience.)

Daytime routes

Not interested in an overnight ride but still want to explore sought-after Italian locales? Treni Turistici offers Espresso day routes, such as the Espresso Riviera, which links Milan to the Riviera, traveling to Nice every Saturday and Sunday through September 1, and trailing along the Italian coast with stops at Varazze, Savona, Albenga, Alassio, Sanremo, Bordighera, and Ventimiglia every Sunday through September 30. The Espresso Versilia runs from Milan to Livorno (with stops including the Cinque Terre and Forte dei Marmi) every Tuesday and Thursday through September 26, and it includes lunch for first-class passengers. Launching this fall is the Espresso Assisi, linking Rome to the medieval Umbrian city every Saturday and Sunday from October 5 through November 30.

The experience

On the evening of the departure (typically Friday nights for weekend and long weekend getaways), passengers are greeted at Roma Termini train station by uniformed FS attendants who welcome them aboard before they follow red carpeted hallways to their cabins. The overnight Espresso trains are composed of updated sleeping cars that offer a range of accommodations, including single- and double-berth sleeper cabins and four-bunk cabins. Each cabin includes amenities such as FS-branded linens, blackout curtains, and a welcome kit with earplugs and slippers. Rooms have interior door locks, air conditioning, volume control for train announcements, and ample overhead storage space, as well as a wash basin. There are no en suite bathrooms, but communal bathrooms are located at the end of each car.

Meals are included in the sleeper cabin price for the overnight trains and in first class for the Espresso Versilia daytime route. The dining cars evoke a vintage vibe with 1980s decor-diner-like four-top tables with red vinyl chairs and white tablecloths. The offerings includes a prix fixe menu (starter, main, and dessert) and à la carte options that highlight regional specialties like tortelloni with porcini mushrooms and saltimbocca alla romana. There's also a children's meal available of tomato and basil pasta and grilled chicken breast. Breakfast is a generous affair, featuring everything from cornetti to gluten-free options, ensuring all passengers start their day well-fueled.

You can book tickets for any of the Espresso trains online at FS Treni Turistici Italiani . The round-trip cost for exclusive use sleeper cabins for the overnight trains are approximately 300 to 500 euros (US$333 to US$555, based on current conversation rates), depending on the route. Couchettes (the bunked cabins) are approximately 200 (US$222) to 400 euros (US$444), depending on the route and the occupancy. (They are more expensive if you book the entire couchette.) Espresso day trips start at 88 euros (US$98) per person for a second-class round-trip ticket.