Itinerary

Northern Italy and Tuscany are such beautiful regions, and you’re in for a treat. With a focus on food, romance, and a little adventure for the third wheel, here’s a delightful 6-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and, of course, delicious cuisine!

## Day 1: Arrival in Milan

Morning:

• Arrive in Milan and check into your hotel. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a quick breakfast at a local café—try a cornetto (Italian croissant) and a cappuccino.

Afternoon:

• Head to the iconic Duomo di Milano. Climb to the rooftop for stunning views of the city. Don’t forget to snap some photos!
• For lunch, indulge in a classic Milanese dish: Risotto alla Milanese at a nearby trattoria.

Evening:

• Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some window shopping.
• Dinner at a cozy restaurant in the Navigli district. Try some Ossobuco paired with a glass of Barolo. The canals are lovely for a post-dinner walk!

## Day 2: Lake Como Day Trip

Morning:

• Take an early train to Lake Como (about an hour from Milan). Enjoy breakfast at a lakeside café in Varenna.

Afternoon:

• Explore the charming town of Bellagio. You can take a ferry from Varenna. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and visit the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi.
• For lunch, enjoy some fresh fish at a lakeside restaurant.

Evening:

• Return to Milan and freshen up. For dinner, try a local pizzeria. Pizza Margherita is a must!

## Day 3: Florence

Morning:

• Take a train to Florence (about 2 hours). After checking in, grab a quick breakfast of schiacciata (Tuscan flatbread) and coffee.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo.
• For lunch, try a panino with porchetta from a local deli.

Evening:

• Head to the Ponte Vecchio for sunset views.
• Dinner at a traditional Florentine steakhouse. Don’t miss the Bistecca alla Fiorentina—it’s a carnivore’s dream!

## Day 4: Tuscan Countryside

Morning:

• Rent a car and drive into the Chianti region. Stop at a vineyard for a wine tasting and tour. Enjoy a light breakfast with local cheeses and cured meats.

Afternoon:

• Visit the charming town of San Gimignano. Explore its medieval towers and enjoy gelato from the world-famous Gelateria Dondoli.
• For lunch, try some Pici cacio e pepe at a local trattoria.

Evening:

• Drive to Siena for dinner. Enjoy a meal in the Piazza del Campo. Try the local specialty, Pici cacio e pepe, and finish with a glass of Vin Santo.

## Day 5: Pisa and Lucca

Morning:

• Head to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower. Climb to the top for a unique view!
• Grab a quick breakfast of brioche and coffee at a nearby café.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Lucca. Rent bikes and cycle around the city walls. It’s a fun way to see the sights!
• For lunch, enjoy a slice of Torta di Ceci (chickpea flatbread) at a local eatery.

Evening:

• Return to Florence. For dinner, explore the Oltrarno district and find a cozy trattoria. Try some Ribollita, a hearty Tuscan soup.

## Day 6: Return to Milan

Morning:

• Head back to Milan. If you have time, visit the Castello Sforzesco and its beautiful gardens.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in the Brera district. Try some Pasta alla Puttanesca.
• Spend your last afternoon shopping or visiting any sights you missed.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, treat yourselves to a fancy meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Savor the flavors of Northern Italian cuisine one last time!

Tips:

• Make reservations for popular restaurants in advance, especially in Florence and Milan.
• Don’t forget to try local wines in each region!
• Enjoy the moments, take lots of photos, and savor the food and scenery!

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Northern Italy and Tuscany! Enjoy your trip! 🍷✨