Northern Italy Itinerary: A Journey Through Iconic Cities and Lakeside Charm
This 7-day Northern Italy itinerary takes you through the vibrant cities of Milan, Verona, Venice, and Bologna, with a delightful day trip to Lake Como. Travel efficiently by train and bus, experiencing diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
- 1Milan
- 2Verona
- 3Venice
- 4Bologna
Day 1: Arrive in Milan and City Exploration
Begin your Northern Italian adventure in Milan, arriving at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). After transferring to the city centre, immerse yourself in Milan's iconic landmarks and grand architecture.
Highlights
- Transfer from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to the city centre by Malpensa Express train or shuttle bus, taking approximately 50 minutes.
- Marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture of the Duomo di Milano, Milan's iconic cathedral.
- Stroll through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historic shopping arcade, and experience the bustling Piazza del Duomo.
Day 2: Day Trip to Lake Como
Take a scenic train journey from Milan to Como for a captivating day exploring the picturesque lakeside town and its historic heart.
Highlights
- Catch an early train from Milan to Como, with services starting from 00:01, for a journey that can take as little as 41 minutes and tickets starting from €5.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Lungolago di Como, the city's beautiful lakeside promenade.
- Discover the grandeur of Como Cathedral and soak in the lively atmosphere of Piazza Cavour, Como's main waterfront square. Return to Milan by train, with the last departure from Como at 23:58.
Day 3: Travel to Verona and Roman History
Relocate from Milan to Verona by train, then spend the afternoon discovering Verona's ancient Roman heritage and romantic allure.
Highlights
- Travel from Milan Centrale to Verona Porta Nuova by train, with tickets starting from €13 for a journey of around 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Explore the magnificent Arena di Verona, a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre.
- Wander through Piazza Bra, Verona's grand main square, and visit Casa di Giulietta, the legendary Juliet's House.
Day 4: Journey to Venice and Grand Canals
Take a bus from Verona to the enchanting city of Venice, where you'll begin your exploration of its world-famous canals and landmarks.
Highlights
- Board a bus from Verona, St. di Autobus to Venice, with tickets starting from €2 for a journey averaging 1 hour 33 minutes.
- Arrive at Piazzale Roma, the gateway to Venice, and take a vaporetto into the heart of the city.
- Experience the iconic St. Mark's Square, admire the Doge's Palace, and cross the famous Rialto Bridge.
Day 5: Art and Culture in Venice
Dedicate a full day to Venice's rich artistic and cultural offerings, from Renaissance masterpieces to modern art, all set against the backdrop of its unique waterways.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in art at the Gallerie dell'Accademia, home to Venetian masterpieces.
- Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection to see an outstanding array of modern art overlooking the Grand Canal.
- Enjoy the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere along the Grand Canal, perhaps with a gondola ride or a vaporetto journey.
Day 6: Relocate to Bologna and Culinary Delights
Travel by bus from Venice to Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy, and spend your afternoon exploring its historic squares and vibrant food scene.
Highlights
- Take a bus from Venice to Bologna, with tickets starting from €5 for a journey of approximately 2 hours 1 minute.
- Discover Piazza Maggiore, Bologna's main square, surrounded by impressive historic buildings.
- Admire Le Due Torri, Bologna's iconic medieval leaning towers, and explore the Quadrilatero, a historic market quarter known for its food.
Day 7: Depart from Bologna
Enjoy a final morning in Bologna, perhaps with a visit to a significant landmark, before departing from Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ).
Highlights
- Visit the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca, a major pilgrimage church offering panoramic views from its hilltop location.
- Transfer to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) via the Marconi Express monorail, a quick 7-minute journey from Bologna Centrale railway station.
- Depart from Bologna, concluding your Northern Italy tour.
