Travel Tips Northern Italy – Our five-stop Northern Italy Itinerary will take you from the bustling streets of Milan to the small canals of Venice, and everywhere in between! To make your trip as easy and stress-free as possible, we break down transportation, hotel recommendations, and what to do in each city. This Northern Italy travel itinerary is based on our 10-day train trip with a few tweaks to make it perfect for future travelers. So get ready for a magical time of eating, and walking your way through the best cities in Northern Italy!
We chose to take Northern Italy by train and it was super easy and comfortable! All of the major cities on our 10-day Italy travel itinerary were accessible by public transportation, and the train was also a great way to see the beautiful Italian countryside.
Travel Tips Northern Italy
Be aware that there are different prices based on whether you book directly or indirectly. The best options are often indirect trains, but they can take twice as long to reach your destination. If you have the funds to do so, renting a car is another amazing way to see the best cities in Northern Italy!
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Start your Italy travel itinerary by arriving in the giant city of Milan. Italy has an international reputation for being at the forefront of the fashion industry, and Milan is at the heart of it. From the sparkling windows to the stunning historic architecture, this is the perfect place to start before hitting all the best cities in northern Italy.
Northern Italy by Train Tip: When you arrive at Malpensa which is the main international airport of Milan, you will be about an hour away from the city. Buses run every 30 minutes from the airport to Milan’s main train station, and tickets can be purchased on board for 10 Euros.
Bulgari Hotel Milano – Recognized as one of the best luxury hotels in the world, you will stay in an oasis in the heart of the city. The rooms offer views of the gardens and have modern designs with high-tech features.
Nhow Milan – This unique hotel stands out for its fun modern design and comfortable rooms. It serves a wide menu in the restaurant, and it is also only 8 metro stations from the Central Station if you travel in the North of Italy by train.
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Babila Hostel – Great location with all major attractions within walking distance. Rooms and beds in dormitories are available with free breakfast.
Bergamo is a booming city, made unique by the fortified Citta Alta. Sitting on top of a hill overlooking the city, you will be amazed by the beautiful views and architecture. When we visited in early May we were amazed to see the snow-capped peaks of the Italian Alps in the distance. Bergamo also has the perfect small-town feel to soak up the sights after Milan, and change up your fantastic Italy travel itinerary.
For your second day in town consider a day trip to the famous Lake Como which is only an hour away by train. There are only a handful of times the train runs and you need to be on the first one. However, if you think carefully, you can spend the whole day in the Italian sun while sailing on a ferry around the lake.
Itinerary: On the Bergamo to Lecco train transfer to the Varenna Esino train. From here you can explore the city or take the ferries to Bellagio and Menaggio. Just make sure you don’t miss the train back to Bergamo, or you’ll be staying the night!
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GombitHotel – In the heart of Bergamo Alta, this super upscale hotel combines modern luxury with ancient Italian architecture. Enjoy your stay in the heart of the Old Town with beautiful views to match.
Hotel Piazza Vecchia – What could be better than staying near the main square? This authentic 14th century town house will put you right in the middle of all the action in Bergamo Alta.
B&B Entro Le Mura – Nice accommodation close to the main square and many great restaurants in Bergamo. Enjoy the cozy rooms with views of the mountains and the city.
MammaMia – If you’re looking for a little more space then these apartments in Bergamo, Italy may just be your style.
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Verona Italy is a magical city full of small streets, an amazing history, and the home of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The size makes it perfect for exploring on foot! This is great because there are no cars allowed in the main areas.
One of the many highlights is crossing the famous Ponte Pietra bridge (built in 100 BC), and walking up to Verona Castle for a view of one of the best cities in Northern Italy!
Hotel Milano & SPA***S – There are many ways to see a Roman Amphitheater on your 10-day Italy travel itinerary… But how about a rooftop jacuzzi?? This luxury hotel has it all and more right in the city center.
Marconi Rooms and Apartments – Fun medieval atmosphere in the heart of Verona. Spacious rooms and a unique roof terrace.
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Posada Verona Hostel – Just outside the main city, but still within walking distance of all the great restaurants and attractions. Private rooms and dormitory beds are available.
We didn’t originally plan to visit Bologna on our 10-day Italy travel itinerary, but it ended up being one of the best decisions we ever made. Now we’re not just saying that because we had the best pizza of our lives in this city, but it was a huge bonus! Bologna radiates life as home to many students and young professionals.
At any time of the day, you can see people of all ages enjoying the city and feasting on delicious food. By adding this to your Northern Italy travel itinerary, you’ll quickly see why it’s called the country’s culinary capital!
Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni – Located in an 18th century palace with antique furniture and modern luxury. This five-star hotel has an amazing location in Bologna, but it is so beautiful that you will never want to leave.
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Residenza Bianconcini – Stay in a historic Italian building steps away from all the city action. Unique rooms with wooden features, and a wonderful breakfast with homemade cakes!
Dopa Hostel – One of the most popular and stylish hostels in Bologna. You will have your choice of dormitories or private rooms, and be just 800 meters from the Towers of Bologna.
There is no city in the world like Venice! From the maze of small streets to the long canals and large squares, it is one of the only places where being full of tourists will not spoil its charm.
When it rains, the city floods and long plans are installed to avoid the increase of centimeters of water. However, when it’s sunny, the whole city sparkles in the light. This is the most magical place in Italy and will make the perfect end to your 10-day itinerary in Northern Italy.
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The Gritti Palace – Located right on the Grand Canal, this stunning hotel is known as one of the best in the city. Expect nothing but high-end luxury with rooms featuring antiques and Murano glass.
Scalon del Doge – This bed and breakfast is located in a 13th century building overlooking the Grand Canal. Decorated in a typical Venetian style, you’ll feel like you’re right in a Venice fairy tale!
Generator Venice – Just a quick 10-minute water bus ride to St. Mark’s Square, you won’t find a cheaper or more stylish hostel in Venice. Dormitories and en-suite rooms are available, and it is close to the station if you are traveling in Northern Italy by train.
Ready to pack your bags and move to Italy? I recently enjoyed reading “A Dream of Italy” which is the perfect fun holiday book!!
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Do you have any tips for the best cities in northern Italy? How about questions about our trip? Let us know what your ideal 10-day Italy travel itinerary would be in the comments below!
Flights: We always check Skyscanner and Kayak to find cheap flights. That’s how we got from Rome to Venice for less than $30 USD!
Accommodation: Compare several sites to get the best deal like Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld should be your first source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Car Rental: We use Discover Cars to find out when you travel. Consider renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another for an epic trip to Italy!
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Tours: Check Get Your Guide for thousands of activities around the world. Book a Florence winery tour, a boat trip to Capri or a street food tour with a local guide in Rome!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection! We have been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronic and camera equipment, medical essentials and long flight essentials!
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