Destinations

Planning a trip to Northern Italy and only have a week to explore? No worries! Northern Italy is packed with beautiful cities, rich history, and stunning landscapes that you can experience in just seven days. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time.

Day 1-2 in Milan: Exploring Italy’s Fashion and Cultural Hub

Must-See Attractions:

1. Duomo di Milano:
Kickstart your Milan adventure by visiting one of its iconic landmarks – Duomo di Milano is the city’s iconic landmark and largest cathedrals worldwide, taking nearly six centuries to complete with intricate detail from statues to stained glass windows adorning its facade and roof terrace. Don’t miss a climb (or take an elevator) up to its rooftop terrace for breathtaking panoramic views across Milan. Plus you’ll get to take a closer look at its incredible architecture as well as see its iconic Golden Madonnina statue up close!

2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Just steps from Milan’s Duomo lies one of the world’s oldest and most luxurious shopping malls – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is home to some of Prada, Louis Vuitton, Versace boutiques as well as its glass vaulted ceilings and ornate mosaic floors create a regal shopping experience – even if shopping isn’t your thing it is worth walking through this architectural wonder; take in its elegance while taking in its elegance while maybe enjoying one of Biffi or Camparino cafes or simply taking in its elegance.

3. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie Church: No visit to Milan would be complete without viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic masterpiece “The Last Supper,” located in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie church and depicting Jesus announcing which apostle will betray him. As this masterpiece’s fragile condition and immense popularity mean tickets often sell out months in advance – the experience of witnessing this iconic painting in person will leave an everlasting memory!

Insider Tips

As night falls, head out to Navigli, Milan’s historic canal area. Here, lively bars and restaurants line its streets – ideal for experiencing Milan’s beloved tradition of Aperitivo from 6-9 PM! This popular tradition involves drinking something refreshing like a spritz or negroni while snacking on complimentary bites from a small buffet of Italian bites in an environment which combines energy with relaxation; locals as well as visitors come together here to unwind after a busy day!

Discover Brera District: For an artistic and boho experience, venture into Brera. Famous for its charming streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafes – Brera makes for an enjoyable afternoon excursion. Be sure to stop by Pinacoteca di Brera (one of Italy’s premier art galleries) which boasts works by greats such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian! For its bohemian feel and charming streets it makes Brera an ideal neighborhood; perfect for coffee stops or souvenir hunting adventures!

Bonus Experiences

If time allows, visit Sforza Castle, an historic fortress housing numerous museums and art collections including works by Michelangelo.
Fashion enthusiasts should visit Milan’s high-end shopping district – Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrilateral). Here they will get to experience how Milan has earned its status as an international fashion capital.
By the time your first two days in Milan have come to an end, you’ll have experienced its unique blend of historical grandeur, artistic treasures and vibrant local culture.

Day 3-6 in Venice: Exploring the Magic of the Floating City

Must-See Attractions

1. Begin your Venice journey at St. Mark’s Basilica, a symbol of its grandeur and history. Renowned for its extravagant design and stunning mosaics, this Byzantine masterpiece will not disappoint your senses. Amongst its interior is intricate gold mosaics adorning walls and domes for an air of reverence and prayerfulness. Don’t miss climbing to its terrace for breathtaking views of St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and lagoon; don’t miss discovering Pala d’Oro; an altarpiece covered in precious gems that awaits discovery within!
2. To experience Venetian culture at its finest, ride down the Grand Canal on a vaporetto – Venice’s water bus service. This spectacular waterway serves as the main waterway through Venice, passing iconic landmarks like centuries-old palazzos, bridges and churches as you pass them. Take the slowest but most picturesque Vaporetto Line 1 for an unforgettable sightseeing journey on this breathtaking waterway!
3. Once in Venice, be sure to stop at the Rialto Bridge – one of its most iconic and photogenic landmarks. Dating back to 16th-century construction, this spectacular stone bridge spans the Grand Canal and makes for great photo opportunites as well as being architecturally impressive. Plus, nearby markets offer souvenirs, produce, and fresh seafood to shop from! The Rialto Market comes alive each morning for visitors looking for authentic Venice culture!

Insider Tips

1. Get Lost in Venice’s Narrow Streets: to fully experience Venice, one of the best ways is to wander aimlessly through its labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways. Allow yourself to become disoriented as you venture beyond its main tourist hubs–you will come upon charming squares (called campi), hidden churches and cafes where locals go about their daily lives as well as lesser-known architectural gems can be discovered.
2. Take a Gondola Ride at Sunset: for an unforgettable and romantic experience, embark on a gondola ride through Venice’s canals just as the sun begins to set. Gondola rides are iconic throughout the day; however, when illuminated by soft light from setting sun reflecting off water surfaces in Venice at dusk is even more captivating! Gliding effortlessly along canals while passing under historic bridges creates an intimate, tranquil ambiance hard to replicate elsewhere – while quieter canals off Grand Canal offer peaceful escape from crowds.

Bonus Experiences

Adjacent to St. Mark’s Basilica lies the Doge’s Palace, an opulent Gothic masterpiece which once served as the political and judicial hub of Venice. Filled with lavish rooms such as the Hall of the Great Council, visitors can walk across its famous Bridge of Sighs where prisoners would be taken directly to their cells.

If time allows, consider visiting the nearby islands of Murano and Burano for a day trip. Murano is well known for its glassmaking traditions while Burano stands out with its brightly painted houses and lace-making.
By the time your two days in Venice are up, you will have experienced its breathtaking landmarks, explored its intimate streets, and reveled in its romantic charm – hallmarks of its status as one of the world’s most captivating cities.

Day 5-6 in Verona: Uncover the Romance and History of Italy’s Iconic City

Must-See Attractions:

1. The Verona Arena should be your first stop when exploring Verona. Originally built during Roman rule in the first century CE, its original grandeur can still be appreciated today with concerts and opera performances still taking place today! Located near Piazza Erbe and hosting concerts as recently as last month! Get lucky and catch one of its rare live shows to fully experience its timeless grandeur!
2. No visit to Verona would be complete without visiting Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), made infamous by Shakespeare’s tragic love story Romeo and Juliet. While this house may only exist fictionally, its popularity with romantics and literature lovers alike is legendary; take your camera for an iconic balcony picture and leave a love note on one of its walls outside; tradition calls!
3. Next, make your way over to Piazza delle Erbe – an active marketplace packed with history and culture. Lined by stunning frescoed buildings, cafes, and historic monuments – this lively square has long been at the core of Verona since Roman times – perfect for taking in some local atmosphere while enjoying coffee or traditional Italian street food!

Insider Tips

Whilst in Verona, take time to climb to the top of Torre dei Lamberti for breathtaking panoramic views of Verona’s red rooftops, surrounding hills, and river Adige snaking through town. Take the stairs or use an elevator if a quicker ascent is preferable.

Forget about the tourist spots and take time to discover Verona’s quieter, less tourist-packed side streets, where you will discover charming local eateries, artisan stores and hidden corners that showcase its true essence – away from its main squares! These hidden gems offer delicious meals and unique souvenirs far from their hustle-and-bustle.

Bonus Experiences

For an exciting bonus experience, make your way to Castelvecchio and Ponte Scaligero; this medieval fortress boasts its own bridge – Ponte Scaligero. Today it serves as home to an impressive museum displaying medieval, Renaissance, and modern art collections; you can stroll along this fortified bridge for stunning river and city views.

For an idyllic escape from city life, head over to Giardino Giusti – a beautifully landscaped Renaissance garden featuring cypress trees, fountains and sculptures, making this serene spot perfect for relaxing walks while offering stunning views of Verona from its upper terraces.

Your visit to Verona will bring together romantic charm, historical sophistication, and local authenticity that this city is famous for.

Day 6-7: Florence

Must-See Attractions:

1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo): Begin your trip at Florence’s most iconic landmark, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo). Designed by Brunelleschi himself, its magnificent dome dominates Florence’s skyline and invites exploration. Take a tour inside to admire intricate frescoes or climb 463 steps up the dome for panoramic views over Florence!
2. Art lovers will be amazed at what awaits them at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s premier collections of Renaissance art. Visit iconic masterpieces from Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli – as well as da Vinci’s “Annunciation”. Be sure to book tickets early to avoid long queues!
3. Cross the historic Ponte Vecchio, an iconic medieval stone bridge renowned for its intricate design and selection of jewelry shops. As you walk along this picturesque bridge, stop to take in views of Arno River as well as colorful houses lining its banks.

Insider Tips

1. Head to Piazzale Michelangelo at Sunset for an incredible panorama of Florence: here, an unobstructed view includes Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio and Arno River all visible at once. Sunset provides especially breathtaking illumination as the city becomes bathed in warm golden light – ideal for photography or simply appreciating the moment!
2. Florence is known for its delightful culinary scene, so visit a traditional trattoria for an authentic dining experience. Be sure to order signature dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), ribollita (hearty vegetable and bread soup), or pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup). Finish it all off with a glass of Chianti wine for the complete Tuscan dining experience

Bonus Experiences

If time allows, be sure to explore the grand Renaissance palace Palazzo Pitti that once housed the influential Medici family. Behind it lies Boboli Gardens, an exquisite example of Italian garden design which provides an ideal opportunity for relaxing afternoon strolls.

Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, home of notable figures like Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli who rest there. Renowned fresco artist Giotto also left stunning frescoes here that make this basilica well worth seeing.

By the time your time in Florence is done, you will have experienced all its artistic and cultural treasures that make this city one of Italy’s top travel destinations.

Bonus Tips:

• Transportation: The train system in Northern Italy is efficient and scenic. Consider purchasing a Eurail Pass for flexibility.
• Accommodation: Book your hotels in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Local Culture: Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.

Enjoy your adventure through Northern Italy! From the fashion-forward streets of Milan to the romantic canals of Venice, each city offers its unique charm and countless memories waiting to be made.

Buon viaggio!