Northern Italy

Northern Italy is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With 21 days to explore, you can take your time and really soak in the beauty of each destination. Here’s a relaxed itinerary that balances sightseeing, leisure, and culinary delights.

Day 1-3: Milan

Day 1: Arrival in Milan

• Arrive in Milan and check into your hotel.
• Spend the afternoon strolling through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, enjoying a coffee at one of the historic cafés.
• In the evening, visit the iconic Duomo di Milano. Climb to the rooftop for a breathtaking view of the city.

Day 2: Milan

• Start your day with a visit to the Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper" (make sure to book tickets in advance!).
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Sforza Castle and its surrounding gardens.
• Enjoy dinner in the Brera district, known for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3: Milan

• Take a leisurely morning and visit the Pinacoteca di Brera to admire Italian masterpieces.
• In the afternoon, explore the trendy Navigli district, famous for its canals and artisan shops. Consider a canal-side aperitivo.
• End your day with a relaxing dinner at a local trattoria.

Day 4-6: Lake Como

Day 4: Travel to Lake Como

• Take a train to Varenna (about 1.5 hours).
• Check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring Varenna’s charming streets and the beautiful Villa Monastero.
• Enjoy dinner with a view of the lake.

Day 5: Lake Como

• Take a ferry to Bellagio, often called the "Pearl of the Lake." Spend the day wandering its picturesque streets and gardens.
• Have lunch at a lakeside café and enjoy some local risotto.
• Return to Varenna for a quiet evening.

Day 6: Lake Como

• Spend a relaxing day at the lake. Consider renting a boat or taking a swim.
• Visit the town of Menaggio for a different perspective of the lake.
• Enjoy a leisurely dinner back in Varenna.

Day 7-9: Bergamo

Day 7: Travel to Bergamo

• Take a train to Bergamo (about 1 hour).
• Check into your hotel and explore the Città Alta (Upper Town) with its medieval architecture.
• Have dinner at a local osteria.

Day 8: Bergamo

• Spend the day visiting the Accademia Carrara art gallery and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.
• Enjoy lunch in one of the charming piazzas.
• In the evening, take a funicular ride for stunning views of the surrounding area.

Day 9: Bergamo

• Take a day trip to the nearby Franciacorta wine region. Enjoy wine tastings and a leisurely lunch at a vineyard.
• Return to Bergamo for a relaxed evening.

Day 10-12: Verona

Day 10: Travel to Verona

• Take a train to Verona (about 1.5 hours).
• Check into your hotel and visit the famous Juliet’s House.
• Stroll through the historic center and enjoy dinner in Piazza delle Erbe.

Day 11: Verona

• Spend the morning exploring the Verona Arena, an ancient Roman amphitheater.
• Visit Castelvecchio and its museum in the afternoon.
• Enjoy a leisurely dinner, perhaps trying some local pasta dishes.

Day 12: Verona

• Take a day trip to Lake Garda. Visit Sirmione, known for its thermal baths and beautiful castle.
• Spend the day by the lake, enjoying the scenery and local gelato.
• Return to Verona for the night.

Day 13-15: Venice

Day 13: Travel to Venice

• Take a train to Venice (about 1.5 hours).
• Check into your hotel and take a gondola ride through the canals.
• Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Grand Canal.

Day 14: Venice

• Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace in the morning.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Rialto Market and the surrounding area.
• In the evening, consider attending a classical music concert or opera.

Day 15: Venice

• Take a day trip to the islands of Murano and Burano. Watch glassblowing in Murano and enjoy the colorful houses in Burano.
• Return to Venice for a relaxed dinner.

Day 16-18: Bologna

Day 16: Travel to Bologna

• Take a train to Bologna (about 2 hours).
• Check into your hotel and explore the historic center, including the Two Towers.
• Enjoy a traditional Bolognese dinner, perhaps trying tagliatelle al ragù.

Day 17: Bologna

• Visit the Archiginnasio and the Anatomical Theatre in the morning.
• Spend the afternoon at the Bologna Food Museum or take a cooking class.
• Enjoy a leisurely evening in one of the many piazzas.

Day 18: Bologna

• Take a day trip to Modena to visit the Ferrari Museum or enjoy balsamic vinegar tastings.
• Return to Bologna for dinner.

Day 19-21: Cinque Terre

Day 19: Travel to Cinque Terre

• Take a train to La Spezia (about 3 hours) and then transfer to one of the Cinque Terre villages (Monterosso is a great choice).
• Check into your accommodation and relax on the beach.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner with a view.

Day 20: Cinque Terre

• Spend the day hiking between the villages. The trail from Monterosso to Vernazza is particularly beautiful.
• Stop for lunch in Vernazza and enjoy the local focaccia.
• Return to Monterosso for a relaxing evening.

Day 21: Cinque Terre

• Spend your last day exploring the remaining villages (Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore).
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch and soak in the stunning coastal views.
• In the evening, head back to La Spezia for your departure.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Consider purchasing a regional train pass for convenience.
• Make reservations for popular attractions and restaurants in advance.
• Don’t rush! Take time to enjoy the local culture, food, and scenery.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and relaxed adventure in Northern Italy! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know!