A 14-Day Northern Italy Odyssey: From Venice to Milan

Welcome to the breathtaking region of Northern Italy, a land of rich history, cultural wonders and stunning landscapes, and some of my favorite lakes. This 14-day itinerary is crafted especially for first-time visitors, taking you on a memorable journey through iconic cities, enchanting lakes and the majestic Dolomite Mountains. From the romantic canals of Venice to the scenic beauty of Lake Garda, and from the historic charm of Verona to the cosmopolitan allure of Milan, each destination offers a unique experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Let's embark on this northern Italy odyssey!

Your adventure begins in the magical city of Venice, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of romance and beauty. Stroll through the narrow alleys and charming squares, and cross the iconic Rialto Bridge.

If you're visiting Venice, we always recommend a few nights instead of just a day trip since it’s so popular with day trippers to infuse money into the local economy.

Classics to explore are St. Mark's Square and its stunning Basilica, known for its Byzantine architecture and glittering mosaics. Don't miss the opportunity to take a gondola ride along the meandering canals, allowing the city's enchanting atmosphere to embrace you. The trendier neighborhood of Dorsoduro is also worth a walk as well as exploring the islands of Murano and Burano with a local tour guide meeting artisans and seeing how they work along the tour.

If you want to see some of the less traveled canals of the area, take the train to the town of Treviso, just a 45 min ride away. For a Luxe classic stay in the heart of it all, check in at the Aman Venice.

From Venice, head to Verona, a city renowned for its romantic ambiance and connection to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Juliet's House which you’ve well heard of is very touristy and a pass in my opinion, but there are some other gems worth seeing in the city.

Explore the ancient Roman Arena, still used today for opera performances and concerts. Wander through the historic center, filled with elegant palaces, charming squares and picturesque bridges.

For modern luxury accommodation in Verona, check in at Butterfly Boutique Rooms.

Venture into the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Dolomites offer breathtaking scenery, with towering peaks, lush valleys and crystal-clear lakes.

Hike along scenic trails, take cable cars to the highest vantage points, and capture the stunning beauty of the landscapes with your camera. Visit iconic spots like Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Seceda and the Alpe di Siusi.

For a traditional authentic five-star wellness-focused stay, check in at Alpenroyal Grand Hotel.

Continue your journey to Lake Garda, my favorite less-traveled by Americans lake in Italy. It’s surrounded by picturesque towns like Sirmione, a stunning peninsula with thermal baths and a medieval castle. You’ll also find one of the 50 Best restaurants, Lido 84, which was well earned its Michelin Stars on the west side of the lake.

Visit the charming town of Riva del Garda, known for its beautiful beaches and watersport activities, and surrounding hikes. Enjoy leisurely boat rides across the lake, with views of the surrounding mountains and lush vineyards.

If you’re into adventure travel stay on the north side of the lake at Lido Palace where history meets luxury in Riva del Garda.

En route to Lake Como, make a stop at the Franciacorta wine region. Known for its exceptional sparkling wines that rival Champagne, there are great wineries to taste at from small producers that never leave Italy to more established spots like Berlucci .

Discover the picturesque vineyards and learn about the traditional winemaking process. Franciacorta is a hidden gem, offering a more intimate and relaxed wine experience compared to other wine regions.

For a winery-focused stay, check in at The Albereta Relais & Chateaux.

Arrive at Lake Como, the epitome of elegance and natural beauty. Explore the charming towns of Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, each offering their own unique charm and stunning lake views.

Take a private boat ride across Lake Como, with the majestic Alps providing a breathtaking backdrop. Visit Villa del Balbianello, a historic villa with magnificent gardens and Villa Carlotta, known for its art collection and botanical gardens.

Before heading home, make a stop in Milan, a cosmopolitan city that seamlessly blends modernity with history. Visit the magnificent Duomo di Milano, an architectural masterpiece that dominates the city's skyline and taste the delicious foods fo the region.

Explore Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Discover Milan's fashion and design culture at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Brera district.