After every trip I take to Italy, I come home and start looking at houses to buy- I just can’t help myself. It’s a country with beauty, history, art, and amazing food. But the best part of Italy is the people- especially once you get out of the major cities- and this 10 day northern Italy itinerary by train (or car) will show you the best places to get a off the beaten path a little bit and connect with the real Italy.
The northern part of Italy is my absolute favorite. One moment, you’re sipping an Aperol Spritz on the shores of Lake Como; the next, you’re getting lost (on purpose) in Verona’s winding streets. The Alps offer adventure, while cities like Florence serve up culture plus the best pasta you’ll ever eat.
This itinerary includes a visit to incredible Roman ruins, jaw-dropping mountain views, test driving fast cars, perusing incredible art, and lots and lots of amazing food. After visiting Northern Italy, you- like me- might be checking out realtor sites. Maybe we can be neighbors! 🏠
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- Day 0- Travel from Home
- Day 1- Milan to Lake Como
- Day 2- Lake Como
- Day 3- Lake Como to Florence
- Day 4- Florence
- Day 5- Florence
- Day 6- Florence to Modena
- Day 7- Modena
- Day 8- Modena to Verona
- Day 9- Verona
- Day 10- Travel Home
- If you have more than 10 days in Italy
- My Favorite Travel Websites
- Questions about Travel in Italy
Day 0- Travel from Home
If you’re coming from somewhere far, you’re going to need to add a day for travel. Flights from the US generally leave the East Coast in the evening and arrive in Italy the morning or early afternoon the following day. Be sure to check times wherever you’re traveling from.
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If you have a total of 10 days including travel, I would remove Modena and maybe do a one night stay in Bologna instead. It’s on the way from Florence to Verona and known for its incredible food scene.
>> Ready to start planning? I have lots of tips for planning, packing, and inspiration for your trip.
Day 1- Milan to Lake Como
You will arrive in Milan in the morning or afternoon then immediately catch a train or pick up your rental car and head to Lake Como.
Although Milan is a great city for shopping, I prefer visiting smaller places so I chose to include those instead. If you’d like to visit Milan, I’d suggest you remove Modena from the itinerary and spend a day in Milan at the end of your trip before you catch your flight home.
>> You could also do Como as a day trip from Milan if you’d prefer.
There are several places you might want to stay on the shores of Lake Como so exactly how far the trip from the airport to Lake Como will be depends on where you’re going:
- Como- 40 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus
- Bellagio-1hour by car, 2½ by bus
- Varenna- 1½ by car, 2½ by bus&train
You can stay in Como, but the prettiest part of the lake is where all the fingers of the lake meet near Bellagio and Varenna so I’d suggest that area instead.
If you are renting a car, you’ll pick it up and head to whichever town you choose to stay but a car is not needed for this itinerary. It’s absolutely doable via train.
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If you’re taking the train, you’ll arrive in Varenna which is a lovely place and probably where I would stay next time. It’s a bit quieter than Bellagio with fewer day-trippers since it’s further from Milan. If your ultimate destination is Bellagio, you can take the ferry there from Varenna.
You could also take a taxi or bus to the town of Como. You can grab a bite eat in town or see some of the place- or even stay there. You’ll likely want to grab a ferry to see the main part of the lake. The view on the ferry as the lake opens up is jaw-dropping.
🚃 Use Omio to figure out your best way to get from here to there
using trains and buses!
I have to be honest, getting around Lake Como is a bit confusing. I never could actually figure out how to buy ferry tickets online. But the good news is that all you really need to do is go to the ticket office and they can help you.
Uber isn’t really an option. Instead, there are taxi boats to get you to the places that aren’t easy with the ferry.
You probably won’t be up to much tonight so enjoy an aperitivo with a gorgeous view, stroll around town, have some dinner, and then head to bed. You have a full day to see everything tomorrow.
Top Hotels in Bellagio and Varenna:
Nenè- La Scalinata
This 2 bedroom apartment in Bellagio is where we stayed and it was super convenient and had the most amazing view. I would absolutely stay there again.
Hotel Du Lac 3✩
You can’t get more convenient or more beautiful than this family run hotel in Bellagio right on the main square. It has its own restaurant and incredible lake views- this is a great option.
>> Bellagio and Varenna are the most popular places to stay but the shores of Lake Como are surrounded by wonderful small towns with hotels and rentals. You can use the map feature at Booking.com to check out all the options.
🏨 Check out Booking.com for more hotel options at all different price points
Hotel Villa Cipressi 4✩
This exquisite hotel in Varenna is surrounded by gardens with direct access to the lake. There is a beach nearby and they serve a wonderful daily breakfast.
Albergo Del Sole 3✩
Right on the adorable Piazza San Giorgia in Varenna, this small hotel has breakfast as well as a restaurant that serves pizza and other dishes for dining options during the day.
Great Restaurants in Bellagio and Varenna:
La Dolce Vita
Located in Bellagio on a side street away from the crowds, this small place has great food and a nice atmosphere.
Bar Pasticceria Rossi
A tiny bakery in Bellagio, this was our go-to for an espresso and a pastry in the morning.
Vecchia Varenna
With delicious food and an unbeatable view of the lake, this is a great place to go in Varenna.
La Passerella
What to do when starts raining while you’re exploring the adorable town of Varenna? Hole up in a gelato shop of course. And you might as well go somewhere with an incredible view.🍦
Day 2- Lake Como
Lake Como is famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery, elegant lakeside villas, and charming towns. Whether you’re cruising across its waters, exploring villas, or dining at a waterfront trattoria, the lake exudes an air of timeless luxury. Lake Como offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and postcard-worthy views.
One of the joys of visiting Lake Como is checking out all the pretty villages on its shores. Pick a couple to visit. Or take a boat tour to see the whole lake.
- Bellagio, the most well-known village on Lake Como, is famous for its elegant streets, beautiful gardens, and scenic waterfront.
- Varenna is a quieter village with colorful houses. While there, you can visit the Villa Monastero and the scenic Lovers’ Walk (Passeggiata degli Innamorati). It also has the train station if you are taking public transportation.
- Menaggio is great for lakeside strolls or do some hiking along its trails.
- Tremezzo is home to Villa Carlotta which has stunning gardens and an art collection worth checking out.
- Como, the main city on the lake, features the Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como), charming streets for shopping, and the funicular (train that runs uphill) to Brunate for amazing views.
Or just take it easy and spend your day lazing around- swim at the beach (lido), enjoy a leisurely glass of wine, explore cobblestone paths, take a passagiatta (walk) along the lake, go in search of the best pasta in town, and shop to your heart’s content. It’s your vacay!
Day 3- Lake Como to Florence
The trip from Varenna to Florence takes about 4 hours by car or by 3 ½ train or bus.
Florence is one of my favorite cities. It’s big enough to have tons to do but not so big that it’s overwhelming. Around every corner is a piece of history- and a great gelato place. I dream of living here.
Strolling along its cobblestone streets, you’ll find world-class museums, charming piazzas, and the famous Ponte Vecchio lined with jewelry shops. With its delicious Tuscan cuisine and stunning sunsets over the Arno River, Florence is a city that effortlessly blends culture, romance, and old-world charm.
Top Hotels in Florence:
Great Apts. Few Steps to The Duomo
My family and I stayed in one of these apartments. It was really nice, had a washing machine and kitchen, and the location can’t be beat. Also, there was this super cool eagle’s nest room with a view over the rooftops that you access through a little doorway in the bedroom and up some stairs. Out one window was the Duomo and another window was the Basilica de San Lorenzo. It was a fun little surprise and really gorgeous at night. Oh, and they gave us a bottle of wine!
Il Tornabuoni 5✩
I stayed here for a girls trip and it was absolute perfection. It’s located near all the fancy shopping (Prada, Gucci, Burberry, etc) and there’s a rooftop terrace to relax on after giving your wallet a workout.
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Brunelleschi Hotel 4✩
The Brunelleschi Hotel is set in a restored Byzantine tower and Medieval Church overlooking Florence Cathedral. It has two restaurants: Osteria della Pagliazza, offering local cuisine, and the 2-star Michelin Santa Elisabetta.
Hotel Pendini 3✩
This family-run hotel dates back to 1879 and features antique furnishings and frescoes. It’s located conveniently close to everything including Santa Croce, Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi.
Great Restaurants in Florence:
Caffè Gilli
A historic place on the Piazza della Repubblica to grab an aperitivo, they also have plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Caffè Scudieri Firenze
This cafe that opened in 1939 is a great place to grab a coffee and croissant right by the Cathedral.
Ristorante Tre Pepi
Wonderful waitstaff, delicious food, and a great atmosphere at this place near Santa Croce.
Oltrarno Ristorante Toscano
This place is known for its Florentine steak and I recall going here back in 1999 with my husband. It’s on the other side of the river, near the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens.
Mercato Centrale Firenze
Near the train station, this historic market is the perfect to shop for leather goods and try out local Tuscan street food.
Day 4- Florence
Today you’ll visit the most famous places in Florence. Start your day at the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) which is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It’s known for its intricate marble façade and stunning, red-tiled dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. And be sure you don’t miss the Baptistery and Giotto’s Bell Tower.
One of my favorite things to do in Florence is climb the dome for breathtaking views over the city. Even my kids said it was worth it. I visit in the morning when there are fewer people and it’s not quite so hot- climbing a million stairs will get your heart pumping.
Once you have your fill of the Duomo, you’re going to walk and check out the Ponte Vecchio– the famous medieval bridge lined with sparkling jewelry shop. If you love fancy clothes, window shop along the way on Tornabuoni Street. The best view of the Ponte Vecchio is from the Ponte Santa Trinita at the base of the street.
After a nice lunch, stroll along the river path to the Uffizi Gallery. This incredible art gallery is home to masterpieces by Botticelli (The Birth of Venus), Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. If you’re looking for the original statue of David, however, you won’t find it here. Instead, it is at the Accademia Gallery north of the Duomo.
But don’t fear. There is a replica of Michelangelo’s David and an open-air sculpture gallery located outside of the Uffizi in the Piazza della Signoria. Grab a gelato and people watch in this lovely piazza even if you don’t visit the Uffizi.
Love art and want a guided tour of the Uffizi? Go with a group, do an audio tour, or hire a private guide to learn all about the works here.
Day 5- Florence
Today you’ll head across the river. It’s a little bit less touristy (I said a little, not a lot) on the other side and has one of my favorite places.
>> If you’d rather do a day trip than spend 2 days exploring Florence, I’d recommend visiting Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, or find another adventure through Get Your Guide.
The Pitti Palace is a grand Renaissance palace that once served as the residence of the Medici family. Today, it houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery, which houses masterpieces by Raphael and Titian.
The best part of it in my opinion, however, is the Boboli Gardens behind it. I am a sucker for a beautiful park. These large Italianate gardens have fountains and sculptures and even breathtaking views of the city. Definitely worth checking out.
There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat in the piazza nearby but I’d suggest you get away from the crowds and explore the Oltrarno neighborhood. This is a quieter, more local neighborhood with artisan workshops, cozy cafes, and authentic trattorias. If you’re craving a gelato post-lunch, a great place is La Carraia by the bridge of the same name.
Then you’ll hop back across the river to visit the Basilica of Santa Croce. This magnificent Gothic church houses the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli as well as many others. Its stunning frescoes by Giotto and intricate marble façade make it a cultural and artistic treasure of the city and one of my favorite places.
If you want, you can visit the leather school that is located in the back of the church- just walk around the outside and follow signs to get there. Or head to a shop named Misuri on the piazza for some beautiful leather handbags and coats to buy as a souvenir.
Oh, and Gelateria dei Neri is nearby if you haven’t had your fill yet (yes you can have two gelati in one day).
Day 6- Florence to Modena
The trip from Florence to Modena takes about 1½ hours by car or train.
A hidden gem in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, Modena is famous for its balsamic vinegar, fast cars, and amazing food. Whether you’re into gastronomy, history, or cars, there’s something for everyone.
I knew my kids and husband would like the Ferraris (and they did) but I didn’t expect just how charming the town itself would be.
Typically, Italian towns have one big piazza that things center on. In Modena, however, I felt like every time we turned a corner there was yet another quaint little piazza with a restaurant or two. I’m glad I stumbled upon it.
Top Hotels in Modena:
Hotel Rua Frati 48 5✩
You will have everything you need at his luxury hotel with a spa and wellness center located near the theatre.
PHI Hotel Canalgrande 4✩
Five minutes walk from the cathedral, this hotel is filled with beautiful antiques and art and offers a nice lounge.
🏨 Check out Booking.com for more hotel options at all different price points
Hotel Cervetta 3✩
This pretty little hotel is steps from everything and offers parking and a nice breakfast.
Mazzini’s Rooms 3✩
These rooms are lovely and in a perfect location right on a quiet piazza. There is no on-site restaurant but plenty of options nearby.
Great Restaurants in Modena:
Osteria Francescana
A small, 3-star Michelin restaurant serving tasting menus as well as a la carte options. Be sure to book in advance!
Mi Piace Trattoria
Good food in a wonderful atmosphere. The tortellini in brodo is especially tasty.
Ciccio
A great little wine bar for a glass and some nibbles.
Mercato Storico Albinelli
By far the best place to get a bite to eat. This historic food market has everything you might need for a picnic- check out all the offerings. But there are also little restaurants there for a meal if you’d like to sit down.
Gioelia Cremeria
Delicious gelato in lots of flavors on a nice little piazza where you can enjoy it.
Day 7- Modena
Car enthusiasts have lots of options here and it seems to be the main draw of the town. I’m not even a car person and I enjoyed the museums.
In town is the Museo Enzo Ferrari which showcases the life of the creator of Ferrari with several cars on view. Then 20 minutes from Modena is the Museo Ferrari (Maranello). You can even book a Ferrari test drive in the small town of Maranello! Just be warned that there are no taxis to get you back to Modena- we had to have the museum call one for us.
But this area isn’t all Ferrari. Twenty minutes southeast of town, you can experience the Pagani Factory Tour. And 30 minutes northeast is the Lamborghini Museum (Sant’Agata Bolognese). This area is truly a car enthusiast’s dream.
If cars aren’t your thing, however, there is still plenty to do. History buffs will be interested in the Modena Cathedral (Duomo di Modena)– a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has stunning Romanesque architecture and the Ghirlandina Tower which you can climb for panoramic views of the city.
Or spend time checking out the Piazza Grande in the heart of Modena which is surrounded by shops and cafes or the piazza at the Palazzo Ducale which was once the home of the Este family.
And while you’re there, don’t forget to sample some of the famous balsamic vinegar and lambrusco (bubbly red wine) that the region is famous for. There are lots of tasting tour options in Modena.
You can also wander the wonderful food market in town. Or maybe splash out and have dinner at the 3-star Michelin (!!!) restaurant Osteria Francescana– just be sure to make reservations far in advance.
Day 8- Modena to Verona
The trip from Modena to Verona takes about 1½ hours by car or train.
Verona, the romantic heart of Northern Italy, is best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Julietbut there is much more to see here. With its vibrant piazzas, medieval castles, and delicious Veneto cuisine, Verona is a perfect blend of history, culture, and Italian elegance.
Especially interesting are its stunning Roman ruins like the well-preserved Verona Arena, which still hosts grand opera performances. This city made me fall in love with its quaint charm and I’ve been recommending it to friends ever since.
Top Hotels in Verona:
Due Torri Hotel 5✩
The wonderful rooftop terrace at this luxury hotel looks out over the old town. Have dinner at the Art Nouveau style restaurant or opt for room service if all that sightseeing has worn you out.
Hotel Accademia 4✩
The property is set in an historic building, once acquired by the world-renowned tenor Giovanni Zenatello, whose guidance brought the Verona Arena in 1913 to the status of world’s greatest opera venue. It’s just steps from the Verona Arena and offers a breakfast buffet.
🏨 Check out Booking.com for more hotel options at all different price points
Hotel Giulietta e Romeo 3✩
Just steps from the Verona Arena and Piazza Brá, this wonderful hotel offers parking, a fitness center, and even room room service.
Hotel Milano & Spa 3✩
This modern and elegant hotel in Verona’s historic center, has both rooms and apartments as well as a rooftop terrace and hot tub that look out over the Arena.
Great Restaurants in Verona:
Casa del Caffé
This place has an excellent croissant filled with hazelnut cream that my son still talks about. Yum. Be sure to check out the ancient city underneath glass in the path nearby!
Caffè Ai Lamberti
Piazza Erbe is a great place to people watch and this is a great place to do it. It also has a decent risotto with Amarone wine.
Ristorante Vittorio Emanuele
On Piazza Brá, this place from the 1800s has seasonal Veronese classics either inside the gorgeous restaurant or at the tables outside. My husband and I love it for an aperitivo with a great view of the Arena.
Re Teodorico
Head across the river and up the till for a drink at this place with hilltop views by the Castel San Peitro.
Day 9- Verona
The Verona Arena dominates this town and for good reason. It’s maybe not quite as impressive as the one in Rome but I loved it even more because it’s not such an ordeal to visit. And it’s still in use for concerts- the Opera Festival is the highlight and runs throughout the summer.
The Piazza Brà is in front of the Arena and is a great place to get a bit to eat before or after, or to grab an aperitivo as the sun goes down.
The other big draw here (with the lines to prove it) is Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) with the famous balcony from Romeo and Juliet. Be sure to get tickets in advance or even book a tour or skip-the-line ticket.
A wonderful place to spend some time is the Piazza delle Erbe– a lively square with colorful buildings, market stalls, and cafes. There is a stand here selling fruit which I can imagine is very refreshing in summer, and there are lots of handbags for sale.
If you’re into castles, you’ll want to check out the medieval Castelvecchio with its museum and a picturesque bridge over the Adige River.
Head across the Ponte Pietra to check out the Teatro Romano which can be seen from the walking path. Or head all the way up the hill to the Castel San Pietro for incredible scenic views, especially at sunset. If you’re not up to walking, there is a funicular that will bring you up to the castle.
Your last full day in Italy so make the most of it!
Oh, and you might want to arrange for a ride to the airport or train station- especially if you’ll be going straight from Verona to the airport. It’s easy to hire a driver in advance which removes the worry about getting there in time.
Day 10- Travel Home
The trip from Verona to Milan’s Malpensa airport takes about 2 hours by car or 2½ by train or bus.
If you’re heading to the US, you will most likely leave Italy in the morning and arrive back home later that day. Be sure to check times for wherever you’re traveling.
And just like that, it’s time to say ciao, bella to Italy. I hope you’re leaving with incredible memories, stunning photos, a belly full of amazing food, and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful corner of the world.
And if the post-trip blues start creeping in? There’s only one cure- time to start planning the next adventure!
(Go to Spain. It rocks. 🇪🇸)
If you have more than 10 days in Italy
Lucky you! I am always talking about renting or buying a house here so I can explore to my heart’s content. One day…
One option is to take some day trips from Florence. Get Your Guide has great options for day trips from Florence without the hassle of trying to plan it yourself.
You could also visit Venice which I have been to several times and absolutely love- just make sure it’s not flooding season.
If you want some beach time, check out the villages of Cinque Terre. Or head to the Ligurian coast and see Portofino or- my favorite base to explore around here- Santa Margherita Ligure. You could even go somewhere a little more lively and visit the city of Genoa.
If you have lots more time, combine your trip to Italy with another of my favorite places- Spain. I especially love the southern Spain with its Moorish history and breathtaking beaches (that are less expensive than Italy). But central Spain took me by surprise and I really enjoyed the small towns near Madrid that I visited.
Or heck, just rent a house and spend a month exploring all the places around here. Seriously, you can! The longer you stay, the more likely the rental owner is willing to go down on price.
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Questions about Travel in Italy
When to go to Italy?
I love Italy in autumn when the weather is nice and the summer visitors are gone. Spring is a good time too for the same reasons but there might be some rain. Summer is good for a beach trip but try to avoid August if you can because it’s hot and all the Europeans are on vacation that month so things are a little more crowded and expensive.
Is Italy expensive?
Italy is kind of in the middle compared to the rest of Europe. It cost a little more than Spain but less than Switzerland.
How to get around Italy?
I love the train system in Europe. You can get pretty much anywhere you want to go without needing a car. But if you love the freedom to come and go as you please, a car might be right for you. This itinerary can be used no matter if you’re traveling by public transportation or car.
Is Italy safe?
Italy is completely safe and great for solo travel. The only thing you need to worry about are pickpockets- as you do in large cities no matter where you are in the world.
I hope this itinerary has helped you come up with a plan to visit this historic and absolutely beautiful part of Italy. I know once you visit northern Italy, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again.
Happy travels… ✈️ 🇮🇹 🇮🇹
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