10-Day Luxury Honeymoon in Northern Italy

Upon arriving in Milan, you’ll immediately feel the vibrant energy of Italy’s fashion and design capital. After settling into your hotel, begin your honeymoon with a visit to the iconic Duomo di Milano. This magnificent Gothic cathedral, with its intricate facade and towering spires, offers an incredible introduction to Milan’s rich architectural heritage. Take your time exploring the interior, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city.

From there, make your way to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. Stroll through its elegant arcades, admire the stunning glass-domed roof and perhaps indulge in a bit of luxury shopping or a coffee at one of the historic cafes.

As evening falls, head to the Brera District, known for its charming cobblestone streets, artistic vibe and cozy trattorias. Here, you can enjoy a romantic dinner, savoring authentic Italian cuisine in an intimate setting, making for a perfect end to your first day.

Start your second day in Milan with a visit to one of the city’s most famous art treasures, Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie. The intricate details and profound expressions in this masterpiece will leave you in awe.

Afterward, continue your cultural exploration at the Sforza Castle, a grand Renaissance fortress that houses several museums filled with fascinating art and historical artifacts. The surrounding Sempione Park offers a peaceful respite, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or relax by the serene pond. In the afternoon, dive into Milan’s fashion scene with a visit to the Quadrilatero della Moda, the city’s luxury shopping district. Here, you can browse high-end boutiques and perhaps pick up a stylish memento of your trip.

As the day draws to a close, head to one of Milan’s chic rooftop bars for an aperitivo, where you can sip on a refreshing cocktail while taking in sweeping views of the city’s skyline as the sunsets.

Leave the urban bustle of Milan behind as you embark on a scenic drive to Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and one of its most stunning lakes. The two-hour journey will take you through picturesque countryside and charming small towns, offering glimpses of Italy’s natural beauty along the way.

Upon arrival at Lake Garda, check in to your luxurious hotel and take some time to unwind. The tranquil setting, with the lake’s crystal-clear waters and the surrounding mountains, provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Spend the afternoon indulging in the hotel’s spa, where you can pamper yourselves with rejuvenating treatments or simply relax by the lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

As evening approaches, make your way to the enchanting town of Sirmione, located on a narrow peninsula jutting out into the lake. Here, you can enjoy a romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where the gentle lapping of the water and the twinkling lights reflecting off the lake create an unforgettable dining experience.

Begin your day with a thorough exploration of Sirmione, a town rich in history and charm. Start with a visit to the Scaliger Castle, an impressive fortress that seems to rise out of the lake itself. Wander through its well-preserved rooms and climb the tower for stunning views of the surrounding area.

Next, make your way to the Grottoes of Catullus, the remains of a vast Roman villa that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, along with breathtaking views of the lake. After immersing yourselves in history, take to the water for a boat tour of Lake Garda. As you glide across the sparkling waters, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the lake’s most picturesque towns, including Limone sul Garda, known for its lemon groves and colorful houses, and Malcesine, with its medieval castle perched on a cliff.

After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for a wine-tasting experience, where you can savor the region’s finest wines, paired with local delicacies, while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the lake at sunset.

Today, set out to explore the eastern shores of Lake Garda, starting with the charming town of Bardolino. Known for its scenic lakeside setting and excellent wine, Bardolino is the perfect place to begin your day. Stroll through the town’s narrow streets, lined with colorful houses and visit the local wine museum to learn about the region’s rich viticulture history.

From Bardolino, take a scenic drive through the Valpolicella wine region, renowned for producing some of Italy’s finest red wines, including Amarone. Stop by a few of the region’s wineries to sample these robust wines and perhaps bring a bottle or two back with you.

After a day of tasting and exploring, return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon. Take advantage of the luxurious spa facilities or simply lounge by the pool, enjoying the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. In the evening, embark on a romantic sunset dinner cruise, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal while sailing across the calm waters of Lake Garda.

Day 6:

After breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Garda and head north toward the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic peaks and stunning landscapes. The drive, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, will take you through some of Italy’s most beautiful countryside, with the mountains gradually coming into view as you approach your destination.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, where you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the towering peaks and lush valleys. Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the area by taking a leisurely walk around your hotel or simply relaxing on the terrace, taking in the fresh mountain air. In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at your hotel’s restaurant, where you can savor gourmet cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients while enjoying panoramic views of the Dolomites, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Day 7: Dolomites

Today, immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of the Dolomites by exploring the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow. This vast expanse of rolling green hills and wildflowers, framed by jagged mountain peaks, is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike. Whether you choose to embark on a leisurely hike along the well-marked trails or take a cable car to one of the many viewpoints, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas at every turn.

After a morning of exploration, make your way to the nearby village of Ortisei, a charming alpine town known for its wooden chalets, vibrant cultural scene and stunning scenery. Take some time to wander through the town’s quaint streets, perhaps stopping for a coffee at a local cafe or browsing the shops for handcrafted souvenirs.

In the evening, return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. Unwind in the spa, enjoy a soothing massage or simply sit back and take in the serene mountain views as the sun sets behind the peaks.

Day 8: Dolomites

On your final day in the Dolomites, embark on a scenic drive to Lago di Braies, one of the region’s most beautiful and iconic lakes. Surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forests, the lake’s turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting for a romantic boat ride. As you glide across the calm waters, take in the stunning reflections of the mountains and enjoy the tranquility of this pristine alpine paradise.

Afterward, continue your exploration with a visit to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most famous landmarks in the Dolomites. These three towering peaks are a sight to behold, and the surrounding area offers a variety of easy hiking trails that provide spectacular views of the mountains. Spend the afternoon taking in the dramatic landscapes and perhaps enjoying a picnic with a view.

In the evening, return to your hotel for a cozy night by the fire, where you can reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days while enjoying a warm drink and the peaceful ambiance of the mountains.

Day 9: Venice

Leave the Dolomites behind as you drive to Venice, a journey that takes approximately 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, drop off your rental car and prepare to immerse yourselves in the magic of this unique city.

After checking in to your hotel, set out to explore Venice by taking a gondola ride through the city’s iconic canals. As you glide through the narrow waterways, passing under historic bridges and alongside centuries-old buildings, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through St. Mark's Square, the heart of Venice, where you can admire the stunning architecture of St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, beautifully illuminated against the night sky. For dinner, choose a restaurant with a view of the Grand Canal, where you can enjoy a romantic meal while watching the gondolas drift by and the lights of the city on the water.

Day 10: Venice

Begin your day with a visit to the Doge's Palace, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of Venice’s most important historical sites. Explore the opulent rooms, adorned with magnificent frescoes and intricate details, and learn about the history of the Venetian Republic. Next, visit St. Mark's Basilica, an architectural marvel with its stunning mosaics, golden domes and intricate facade.

After exploring these iconic landmarks, take some time to discover Venice’s lesser-known treasures. Wander through the Rialto Market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies, or explore the Cannaregio district, a quieter area of the city with charming canals, historic buildings and hidden gems.

In the evening, treat yourselves to a farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Venetian cuisine, paired with fine wines, in an elegant setting. This final meal will be the perfect way to celebrate the end of your romantic journey through Italy.

Day 11: Departure

On your final day, depending on your flight time, you may have the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely morning in Venice. Perhaps take one last stroll along the canals, visit a local cafe for a traditional Italian breakfast or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. As you prepare to depart, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve shared during your honeymoon, from the vibrant city life of Milan to the serene beauty of Lake Garda, the majestic peaks of the Dolomites and the enchanting romance of Venice. This unforgettable journey will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime as you embark on your new life together.