Milan, Venice and Florence in 10 Days: A Family Itinerary
Curated By
Kari Bradbury (Kingfisher Luxury Travel)
Curator’s statement
Northern Italy is a treasure of unforgettable destinations. The region is rich in culture, ready for sharing with family and friends eager to learn, relax, enjoy, and thrive. Milan offers a unique and storied fashion culture. Venice is a mecca for performing arts and architecture, while art and religious history abound in Florence. All of these destinations have local artisans telling stories from centuries past in each hand-crafted ware. And there is something for every family member to absorb and enjoy, from food and wine to art and architecture.
The Fora Difference
Book with Kari to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Hilton Milan
Experience contemporary comfort and exceptional service at Hilton Milan. Located in the heart of the city, this stylish hotel offers modern accommodations, upscale amenities, and a convenient base for exploring Milan's renowned attractions and vibrant culture. Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can enjoy the comfort of spacious rooms, delectable dining options, and impeccable hospitality. Discover the perfect blend of elegance and convenience at Hilton Milan.
Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice
This glamorous Giudecca Island icon is prized for its lagoon views, famed cocktail bar, enchanting gardens and pool.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Riva Lofts Florence
A blend of historic charm and modern luxury overlooking the serene Arno River in Florence, Italy.
Fora Perks
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Kari to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Milan
You’ll likely arrive in Milan mid-morning. I recommend early check-in if at all possible (let me know if this perk appeals to you!) for a 1-2 hour power nap. If you’re the type to keep sleeping, leave your bags at the hotel, skip the nap altogether, and hit the pavement with comfortable walking shoes! Take the afternoon to browse the city center. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect location to eat Gelato, shop luxury brands, people watch, and power through the jet lag. Take this opportunity to twirl on the mosaic Turin bull in the center of the arcade. This traveler’s tradition is not only accepted, it’s encouraged because lore says if you do this while making a wish, your wish will come true and it will bring you back to Milan! Picky eaters will love that there’s a McDonald’s 1 block from the Galleria.
Day 2: Tour the Duomo and Learn to Make Real Italian Pizza
Take a private or small-group tour of the 3rd largest church in the world - The Duomo di Milano. Plan to tour the rooftop as well and learn why the magnificent spires differ so much in thematic concept from the church’s conception in 1386 to its final craftsman’s touch in 1965. A “must do” tour for the architecture enthusiasts in your family.
Allow me to book an authentic Italian pizza-making experience for your family. Learn the secret formula for the perfect crust from an Italian chef and get knead-deep in dough! Enjoy wine, pizza, and getting to know classmates from all over the world. Bonus - take the recipes home with you!
Day 3: Day trip! Make Your Way to St. Moritz by Way of Lake Como
Ok. So…St. Moritz is not in Italy, so consider this day trip a unique opportunity to visit a second country for the price of one! Take a private tour bus from Milan to Lake Como. Here you will board a boat tour of the lakeside town with beautiful views of the pre-Alp region for a hint of what’s to come. After the lake tour, hop on the Bernina Express. Listen to your guide’s expert account of the train’s history as you journey into the Swiss Alps. Once in St. Moritz, deboard the train for time to explore, shop, wine, and dine in town. Trust me, you’ll never forget this beautiful experience.
Day 4: On the Rail to Venice
Travel like an executive on board one of a few Italian train lines straight from Milan to Venice. Enjoy the Italian rail’s luxurious transportation for less than the price of a U.S. city bus pass. Snacks, wine, sodas, leather seats, free wi-fi, and huge windows for spectacular countryside viewing. The kids will love this experience as it offers instant food and media gratification from the comfort of a reclining seat!
If you don’t mind getting to Venice after 8pm local time, consider hopping off the train in Verona for a fine glass of regional wine. Take a look at Shakespeare’s most famous balcony at La Casa di Guiletta.
Day 5: Explore Venetian History and Architecture by Day and Music by Night
Take advantage of local historians leading you through the city of Venice on a private or small-group history tour. Go inside the incredible St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, including the prisons (kids love this part!). If you travel during Carnivale (late January to mid-February), you’ll experience locals dressed in elaborate costumes and masks. It’s an awesome feast for the eyes and a dive into the abundant Venetian culture.
Allow me to make an early dinner reservation (early by Italian standards!) for your family at TEN Restaurant Venezia. Here you’ll enjoy amazing house wine and local live music before you walk a short 5 minutes to experience a unique performance. Vivaldi’s Four Seasons performance in the historical and beautiful Scuola Grande di San Teodoro, where the performers are dressed in 18th-century fashion. My 12-year-old son and 16-year-old daughter loved this experience!
Day 6: Island Hop and Shop
In the morning, visit Murano island to learn the why and how of Italy’s famous glass art. In the afternoon, shop Venice’s quaint boutiques for authentic Italian handbags, shoes, ornaments, linens, and on and on. Eat Italian pastries, gelato, and keep the espresso flowing until it’s time to wine and dine at Rossopomodoro.
Day 7: On the Rail to Florence
Take your seat aboard one of Italy’s premium rail lines for a relaxing trip to Florence. This is about the time in your itinerary when you’ll appreciate a “free” day. I recommend staying at the Riva Lofts, within walking distance to most major sightseeing opportunities. Also providing family rooms with separation space and experiences for well being, fitness and fun!
Day 8: Art for All
Enjoy a “culture-rich must do” activity on my list at the Uffizi Gallery. Perfect for families, the Uffizi displays and educates on ancient paintings and sculptures. Fun for the entire family, the Uffizi Gallery offers two unique kids’ tours with a scavenger hunt-type activity to keep them engaged. Don’t miss the works of Botticelli, Caravaggio, and of course, Michelangelo. Speaking of Michelangelo, head over to the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze to see the original statue of David. All the while on your private or small-group museum tour, you’ll learn about the history and influence of the fascinating Medici family.
Day 9: At Your Leisure
On the last full day of your Northern Italian Cities Tour, relax and walk slowly through Florence. Take a walking tour of the city center or a food tour. Stop and browse the artisan fair and leather market. Alternatively, consider a day trip into Tuscany for wine tasting or to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Do not miss dinner at Trattoria Marione - voted one of the best restaurants in Florence, and I can attest to that. Allow me to make a reservation to ensure your family gets a table. Walk-ins are welcome, but the line to get in stretches around the block!
Day 10: Head Home!
Enjoy a buffet breakfast and lots of water to hydrate and protein up for your trip home. Be sure to check and double-check your hotel room for misplaced souvenirs and travel essentials. Did you leave a shoe in the hotel safe on purpose? Double check - you might find something valuable in there too, like passports or jewelry. Allow me to book a private car or van for your safe, relaxing, no-fuss airport transfer.
![Advisor - Kari Bradbury (Kingfisher Luxury Travel)](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711122329/contentful-migration/advisors/image/20181117_132655_HDR-2_-_Kari_Bradbury.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Kari Bradbury (Kingfisher Luxury Travel)
Get in touch with Kari
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Kari within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Scott Ritter’s guide, Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy.