Last Updated on July 7, 2024 by Tori’s VA
Italy might be one of the highest tourist countries, for good reason, central Italy is the part that gets the most attention. But there are so many incredible towns and cities in Northern Italy worth exploring as well. Sure, you’ve heard of Milan and Venice, which will definitely be included here, but there are so many other fabulous destinations that you should include on your Italian itinerary as well!
Learn all about these beautiful destinations full of charm, history and of course delicious food. And find the spots that call your name to add to your next Italian getaway.
I have personally been to Northern Italy and enjoyed some of what it has to offer, but I wanted to give you even more options to explore. So, I’ve recruited travel bloggers who have personally visited each of these destinations to tell you all about their favorite towns and cities in Northern Italy. They explored the cobblestone streets and enjoyed the food. Met the locals and learned the history.
This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!
Map of the Towns & Cities in Northern Italy
Region of Liguria, Towns in Northern Italy
Manarola
Recommended by Kim of Traveling Swansons
Manarola is one of the best cities to visit in Northern Italy. Nestled on Italy’s stunning Cinque Terre coast, this tiny village is the perfect blend of charming and breathtaking. With its vibrant buildings clinging to rugged cliffs and the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea below, you’ll have to pinch yourself to believe it’s real. You’ll be so glad you included Manarola on your Italy trip itinerary!
It’s very easy to get to Cinque Terre. If you’re coming from a larger city in Italy, hop on a train to La Spezia and then switch to the Cinque Terre line. It is not recommended to drive to Cinque Terre because the streets are narrow and there is nowhere to park.
Spring and early fall are the golden times to visit. The weather is just perfect, and you won’t be bumping elbows with as many tourists as you would in the summer.
Once you’re there, there’s no shortage of awesome things to do. Marvel at the ancient beauty of the Church of San Lorenzo. Take a walk through the terraced vineyards that are iconic to this region and enjoy a glass or two of the local Sciacchetrà wine. A boat tour of the five villages is also a must-do adventure to soak in the beauty of Cinque Terre.
And for the perfect end to your day, grab a seat at Nessun Dorma. This open-air restaurant sits high on a cliff, giving you the most stunning views of the village and the sea while you enjoy a drink and some light bites.
Where to Stay: Hotel Marina Piccola
Portofino
Recommended by Chris of Around the World with Me
One of the most beautiful small towns in northern Italy is the old fishing village of Portofino on the Ligurian Riviera. In modern times, the sleepy little coastal fishing village has evolved into a getaway for Italy’s rich and famous. Seeing luxury yachts docked in the small bay is not uncommon.
For the average traveler, however, Portofino still offers plenty of affordable and exciting things to do. While wining and dining in Portofino is expensive, walking around the small village and along its historic promenade is totally free.
Portofino is located on the coast of Liguria, near Genoa, and the best way to get there is by car. There is no train to Portofino, so if you’re using public transportation, you’ll have to take the train to Santa Margherita Ligure and then take the bus to Portofino from there.
The best time of year to visit Portofino is April – October, with the exception of August, which, as everywhere else in Italy, is jam packed for the Italian summer holiday. The village is small and can easily be seen in half a day.
I recommend the following points of interest for your day in Portofino:
- Baia Cannone (small bay lined with massive villas that you can swim in)
- Castello Brown (a short hikes takes you to a little castle with an amazing view of the village)
- Cala Marconi promenade (a coastal promenade lined with restaurants and shops)
Where to Stay: Olives Bay Terrace in Portofino
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Genoa
Recommended by Sarah of Life Part 2 and Beyond
Many tourists visiting Italy bypass Genoa and head straight to the more popular destinations along the Ligurian coast, like Cinque Terre and Portofino. But I’m telling you, Genoa is a great place to visit, and one of the best cities in northern Italy.
You can easily get there by train, bus, or plane, and it is a beautiful city with fewer tourists, so it feels so much more Italian and authentic.
To explore the city, I’d recommend either taking a walking tour to get your bearings and learn about the city’s history or simply just wander around the historic center, the largest in Europe.
You should visit the stunning cathedral and see its unusual interior. Take a peek at the simple home of Christopher Columbus (he was born in Genoa) and the fancy Palazzi de Rolli on Via Garibaldi, which were once homes for Genoa’s most affluent citizens.
For a fantastic view of the city and the harbor, take the Art Deco elevator up to Spianata Castelletto.
Be sure to also explore the old harbor, visit the fantastic aquarium and museums and ride the Bigo Panoramic Lift for another excellent harbor view.
If you have an extra day, I’d suggest going to the nearby colorful fishing village of Boccadasse or take a train to Nervi, a suburb of Genoa, where you can enjoy a stunning two-kilometer walk along the coast on Anita Garibaldi’s promenade.
Genoa is a beautiful city to explore any time of the year, but Spring and Autumn are my favorite months to visit as the weather is perfect for exploring.
Where to Stay: Hotel Astoria
Region of Piemonte, Towns in Northern Italy
Rivoli
Recommended by Carly of Fearless Female Travels
I spent several years living in Northern Italy, and my favorite town to visit for the day was always Rivoli. Located about twenty kilometers west of Turin, Rivoli is easy to reach from the busy city center but still retains its medieval, small-town charm.
You can get to Rivoli by bus from Turin’s city center (while you can take the metro halfway, it doesn’t save much time) or you can easily drive in less than half an hour. Once you arrive in Rivoli, park or get off the bus near the entrance to the historic center and then begin wandering up the hill, along the narrow pedestrian streets that lead to scenic views of the Italian Alps and, eventually, the Castello di Rivoli. Formerly one of the Savoy dynasty’s many palaces, today it is one of Europe’s best contemporary art museums.
You can visit Rivoli year-round, although the walk down from the castle can be a bit slippery in the snow. Regardless of season, I recommend visiting on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, as the museum is open and you’ll avoid the weekend crowds.
Where to Stay: Casa Piolti
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Cannobio
Recommended by Zoe from Together In Switzerland
Cannobio is known for its beautiful waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants where one can enjoy local dishes, while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore. It’s one of the best cities in northern Italy. The village’s cobblestone streets are a popular place to visit among tourists, but also has a strong homely vibe for locals.
It’s worth visiting on a sunny warm day so that you can walk around and explore best. You can get there easiest by car or a local bus, else you can arrive by boat (weather permitting) from many villages around the Lago Maggiore, such as Verbania in Italy or Ascona in Switzerland.
For things to do, there is a Sunday market where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses. It’s also a great opportunity to buy something local such as a piece of clothing, leather bags and accessories. Otherwise you can join a local food and wine tasting tour!
For the adventurous types, hike up to Monte Giove at elevation 1298 meters or to the Orrido of Saint Anna scenic nature spot. Else to go swimming in the lake!
For those looking for Italian dishes, we recommend a table at Oggi Pasta. It’s a small, hidden restaurant down one of the streets, but super cozy, fast service with delicious pastas and pizzas.
Where to Stay: Hotel Pironi
Region of Valle D’Aosta, Towns in Northern Italy
Courmayeur
Recommended by Merryl of Merryl’s Travel & Tricks
Nestled in the picturesque Aosta Valley of northern Italy, Courmayeur is among the prettiest towns in the region. This delightful destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of mountain landscapes. The town can easily be reached from the city of Turin by both train and bus routes. While having a car provides flexibility, it’s not a necessity, as public transit, such as buses and cable cars, efficiently connects visitors to the town.
The best time to visit Courmayeur largely depends on your interests. Winter draws skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, while the summer months reveal lush hiking trails, making it a year-round gem. When in Courmayeur, a visit to the famous Skyway Mont Blanc cable car is a must, offering breathtaking views of the Alps. Here, you can take a cable car from Italy into France and even spend a day visiting the charming French hamlet of Chamonix.
Additionally, explore the charming streets of the town, filled with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants serving delectable Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to take in the stunning Mont Blanc massif, which provides a spectacular backdrop to this mountain paradise.
Where to Stay: Auberge de La Maison
Region of Lombardy, Towns in Northern Italy
Como
Recommended by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child
One of the most beautiful cities to visit in Northern Italy is Como. Located at the southern tip of Lake Como in the Lombardy region, which runs parallel to the majestic Swiss lake, Lugano, visiting the city of Como must be included in a Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary!
Como is a thriving city with picturesque views from all around. It also has a Gothic cathedral, renowned restaurants, museums, a waterfront promenade, and luxury hotels. Because it offers a lot, it makes for a great base while you explore everything surrounding one of Northern Italy’s most beautiful lakes.
The best way to get to Como is by taking the train to Como San Giovanni station. You can easily get there from Milan. While in Como, it’s easiest to get around by walking. If you plan to explore other towns and villages around the lake, there is a ferry you can take.
Since you’ll want to spend a lot of time on the lake, visiting Como between late April and early October is best. Please note that the lake will still be too cold to swim in during the shoulder months, and you’ll need a jacket during the evenings.
One of the best things to do in Como is to book a private boat tour around the lake where you can explore the different villages like Bellagio and Varenna, along with celebrity homes like George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, Richard Branson’s Villa La Cassinella, and Gianni Versace’s Villa Fontanelle. You must also take a cooking class in the city and ride the Como-Brunate funicular that overlooks the beautiful lake and surrounding mountains.
Where to Stay: Hilton Lake Como
Milan
Recommended by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
If you’re craving a taste of Italian city life, a vibrant place to visit is Milan, the largest of the cities in northern Italy. Located in the Lombardy region, Milan is home to an efficient public transportation network that makes viewing all the sights and wonders easy!
For example, the most famous landmark is the Duomo di Milano, which reveals stunning Gothic architecture. I remember seeing it for the first time and being speechless by the Duomo’s sheer size and beauty. Or, if you’re looking to do some luxury shopping, pass through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which offers all kinds of high-end designer stores! It was out of my budget, but the architecture is still worth admiring.
When you’re ready to delve into the mouthwatering world of Italian dishes, take the metro to the Navigli district. This is the perfect spot for a leisurely dinner or to grab drinks with friends.
In terms of when to visit, August or September is ideal. This is when the weather is best, and the crowds start to die down. Those interested can fly into one of the three nearby airports or arrive via the regional train. Thus, if you’re looking to experience the magic of the fashion capital of Europe, then consider visiting Milan!
Where to Stay: AC Hotel Milano
Tirano
Recommended by Kenny of Knycx Journeying
Lombardy is one of the most visited regions in Italy with a rich history, classical art, great food, and fashion. The capital city, Milan has a lot to offer with a number of charming small towns in its surroundings. Like Tirano, a small town in north Lombardy adjacent to the Alps bordering Switzerland – it’s considered a great destination for a day trip or a short getaway from Milan.
Tirano is about 166 kilometers away from Central Milan. It is home to many impressive attractions and outdoor experiences for worldwide tourists. To get there, the train ride takes about 3 hours. The train ride from Milan to Tirano itself is a scenic train journey because it runs along the famous Lake Como, a well-known resort area at the foothills of the Alps.
Tirano’s old town is very walkable. Take a half-day to check out the old architecture on the cobbled road and tranquil river, and a highlight would be the Catholic shine of the Madonna di Tirano.
Tirano is also famous for being the starting point of the popular scenic train Bernina Express, operating all year round and connecting with Chur in Switzerland.
If you are visiting in winter, Tirano is located close to a number of ski resorts in the Alps. Winter is also a wonderful time to kick start or complete the train journey from Switzerland because passengers will be witnessing how the train makes its way through the steep and rugged terrain, passing over 196 bridges and 55 tunnels in the snow.
Where to Stay: Ostello del Castello Tirano
Laveno
Recommended by Jenny of TraveLynn Family
Sitting on the eastern shores of Lago Maggiore, Laveno is a picturesque town with a direct train from Milan for those traveling on public transport. Here the foothills of the Alps tower over the glistening lake and the scenery is breath-taking. One of the best cities in northern Italy.
To truly appreciate the views, ride the cable car up to Sasso del Ferro (altitude approx. 1,100 m) from Laveno in what looks like a big green bucket. The 10 minute journey isn’t for the faint hearted, as it’s quite steep in places. However, you can opt for a closed ‘bucket’ if you feel this will make for a less hairy ride. At the top there is a restaurant, café, and playground, as well as a footpath to lead you even higher up the mountain.
Back down in the town, meander along the lakeshore or dine in one of the characterful restaurants, before hopping on a ferry across the lake to visit other lakeside towns; Intra is directly opposite, and the ferry runs every 30 minutes throughout the day.
The summer months are a time for swimming in the lake. Though if you visit in the Spring and Autumn, you can escape the crowds, there’s cooler weather for hiking, and mountain tops may have a sprinkling of snow, adding to those picture-perfect views. Come winter, Laveno is very quiet.
Where to Stay: Hotel del Conte
Bellagio
Recommended by Lauren of The Traveling Moore
My favorite area in Northern Italy is hands-down Lake Como. Specifically, the super cute and charming town of Bellagio. It’s easily one of the best cities in northern Italy to visit.
Bellagio is the most popular town on Lake Como and is nicknamed the “Pearl of the Lake.” It’s also the area that the famous Las Vegas resort was designed after.
To get to Lake Como, first take a train from Milan to Varenna, another lakeside town. From Varenna, take the lake ferry to Bellagio. The ferry runs every hour and only takes around 15 minutes.
The best time to visit Bellagio is from May-September. This is when the weather is warm enough for lake activities. In the winter, most of the restaurants and shops in town close.
Some of the best things to do in Bellagio are take a wooden boat tour of the lake, tour famous villas, or simply shop around town.
There are many wooden boat tours that start in Bellagio and visit popular areas of the lake for swimming and villa viewing. These tours are expensive but worth it to explore the lake.
There are also villas you can see directly in Bellagio, such as Villa Carlota. Finally, you can spend up to a full day exploring the charming cobblestone streets, stopping in local boutiques and luxury stores for some amazing shopping.
Where to Stay: Hotel Du Lac & SPA
Sirmione
Recommended by Helen of Helen on Her Holidays
Sirmione, on Lake Garda in northern Italy, is one of the most romantic and magical towns anywhere in Europe, let alone cities in northern Italy. The town sits on a narrow peninsula that juts out into the southern edge of the lake. The peninsula is actually an island, thanks to Sirmione’s 14th century Scaligero Castle which added a defensive moat right across the entrance to the town. We loved climbing the castle’s towers and walking the ramparts for stunning views across the town and Lake Garda.
The castle is just one of a range of things to do in Sirmione. The picturesque narrow streets of the old town are car-free and packed with interesting corners. You can bathe in hot springs at one of Sirmione’s thermal spas, or take a walk to the end of the peninsula where you can see the ruins of a luxurious Roman villa.
Sirmione is car-free; you can park your car at the beginning of the peninsula, but the best way to get to the town is by boat. You can catch ferry services from Desenzano (which has train connections to Milan and Verona) at the bottom of the lake; the approach by water is particularly beautiful, with the castle above the roofs of the old town. Any time of year is a great time to visit Sirmione, but ferries may be less frequent during the winter months; we visited at the end of September and it was perfect – not too hot but still with the summer ferry service.
Where to Stay: Hotel Eden
Bergamo
Recommended by Imee of Italy In Focus
Bergamo is located in the Lombardy region in the Northern part of Italy. This town is worth a visit, with its scenic beauty and stunning architecture and landmarks, which I found remarkable. Additionally, the delectable local and traditional dishes in Bergamo are delightful.
There are many ways to get to Bergamo; from the Milan- Bergamo airport, we took a bus, and it took us approximately 45 minutes to reach Bergamo. You can also take a car or a van, or you can also try to take a train, there are many options to reach the town depending on how you choose to travel.
When we visited Bergamo in September last year, I felt it was the perfect season to visit the town. I enjoyed the very pleasant weather and a very relaxing day exploring the surroundings with a few visitors.
Though it was just a short visit, we explored the upper city and visited Piazza Vecchia, where I was amazed by the stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture of the town. Perhaps this is one of the best things to do in Bergamo if you come and visit this lovely town.
Another fantastic thing to do in Bergamo is to experience and enjoy a funicular ride; the funicular provides amazing panoramic views of the city, and the surrounding landscape is also perfect for sightseeing.
These are just a few of the best things to do and must-see in Bergamo. And I must say, Bergamo is indeed an off-the-beaten-path cities in Northern Italy. It is an excellent destination to visit and create a memorable journey.
Where to Stay: Locanda Mimmo
Region of Trentino Alto Adige, Towns in Northern Italy
Val di Funes
Recommended by Laura of Laura the Explorer
Nestled under the peaks of the Dolomites in the Sud-Tirol region, the Val di Funes (also known as Villnoss) is one of the most picturesque locations in all of Northern Italy.
It’s famous for its Sud-Tyrolean alpine culture, panoramic mountain views, and some of the best hiking in the Dolomites.
Located about an hour east of Bolzano, the Val di Funes is accessible by public transport (bus), however, it’s much easier to visit by car. It’s best to arrive early in the peak summer season to nab a parking spot.
The valley is best visited in the warmer months of June through November, where you see the highlights of this breathtaking location such as visiting the iconic Chiesetta di San Giovanni, taking in sunset over Santa Maddalena, and hiking one of my favourite trails in the Dolomites, the Adolf Munkel Trail to Geisleralm.
Be sure to take a break in your hike and try the unique Sud-Tyrolean cuisine at one of the charming mountain huts that dot the countryside. A mug of the local wheat beer and a slice of apple strudel will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to Germany or Austria!
Where to Stay: Viel Nois Guest House
Trento
Recommended by Joanna of The World in My Pocket
Trento is one of those hidden gem towns in the North of Italy. Trento is the capital of the Trentino region, and it is worth visiting for its medieval city center with beautiful painted palaces, the frescoes in the Buonconsiglio Castle, the delicious Italian-German fusion food, the local wine, as well as the breathtaking mountain backdrop.
I visited Trento in June, a few years ago, and spent a week here. The weather was beautiful, warm, with plenty of sunny days. I arrived here with a Flixbus from Verona. However, Trento is very well connected by public transport to many major cities in Italy. The nearest big airports are in Venice, Treviso, and Bergamo.
One great thing to do in Trento is take the cable car up to the peak across the river, and have an Aperol spritz with a view of the town and the beautiful mountain scenery behind it.
Another great thing to do in Trento is to take a walking tour to discover all the palaces with their painted facades, as well as some of their interior courtyards.
Trento is located near Valle dei Laghi, where the native Nosiola grape grows. This grape is used to make DOC Trento wines and the traditional Vino Santo, which is considered to be one of the best sweet wines in Italy. You can go wine tasting at many of the vineyards in Valle dei Laghi.
Where to Stay: Torrione Trento
Cembra
Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop
Cembra is a gorgeous town located in the Cembra Valley. It is in the Trentino region of Italy. It has breathtaking natural beauty, rich traditions, and flavorful local wines. This is the perfect destination if you are looking for an authentic Italian vacation, and one of the best cities in northern Italy.
Cembra lies 20 kilometers northwest of Trento and it is easily accessible. A 12 days Italy itinerary will help you explore Cembra and the rest of Italy.
Traveling by car allows you to explore at your own speed. However, you can also use public transport, such as buses and trains, to travel from Trento to Cembra.
Cembra is most enjoyable in the spring and summer, from April to September. The weather during these months is mild and perfect for outdoor activities and experiencing the local culture and festivities.
Cembra is known for its wine and wine-making, particularly adored for the Müller-Thurgau and Schiava wines. You can indulge in wine tasting and take tours of the local wineries to savor the unique flavors of the region.
Cembra boasts an exhilarating landscape which includes rolling hills, gorgeous vineyards, and the glorious Lagorai mountain range. You can take leisurely walks to explore this scenery. You can also partake in some adventure such as hiking or mountain biking.
Cembra has beautiful antique buildings, historical churches, and traditional festivals. Explore the town’s attractions like the Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Cembra Castle. Attend local festivals to get a glimpse of the town’s vibrant culture and local life.
Where to Stay: Agriturismo Maso Besleri
Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Towns in Northern Italy
Trieste
Recommended by Rich of RJ on Tour
Trieste is a beautiful city on the Adriatic coast of Italy, and I really enjoyed visiting. The city is pretty easy to reach by train with direct trains from Ljubljana and Venice. Once in the city it’s all pretty walkable, however they have an excellent bus system.
There are many options for things to do in Trieste. The central areas are beautiful, with a combination of Italian and Austrian architecture, making it quite unique. The grand canal in the city is a beautiful place to explore, which is lined with palaces and churches.
Overlooking the city is a castle, Castello di San Giusto, which is a fantastic viewpoint. The highlight of the castle visit was the Roman artifacts, including mosaics. Other things to see, including a small amphitheater and Trieste Cathedral, a unique place inside.
We enjoyed our summer visit and since it’s located by the coast it was wonderful. Sitting on the pier during a summer sunset was special. There are many restaurants serving both Italian and Austrian cuisine, most of which have outside tables with a view. Overall, Trieste is unique compared to other places I visited while in Italy.
Where to Stay: Elisabeth Boutique Rooms
Region of Veneto, Towns in Northern Italy
Burano
Recommended by Me!
A small island in the Venetian Lagoon, Burano is most well known for being the brightly colored island off of Venice. Each home is painted a different bright color, making for a rainbow along the canals. It’s beauty alone makes it one of the best cities in northern Italy to visit.
The city was once known for their lacemaking, and was one of the primary sources of income for the people there. Lace is still made on the island, and you can visit the lace factory to see the women making the lace and to learn more about the history.
However, today the main source of revenue for the island is tourism. And for good reason, the island is stunning and honestly the best place to visit in the entire Venetian Lagoon (in my opinion). It is fun to just wander the canals and enjoy the beauty of the island. Shop in the little stores for lace, and eat some incredible seafood at a restaurant right on the canal. We absolutely loved spending the day in Burano. I mean how can you not fall in love with this place?!
Where to Stay: Tiffany Home
Venice
Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast
Venice is a city that tops many people’s bucket list, and for good reason – Venice is ridiculously charming and is definitely worth visiting. With over 150 canals that crisscross the city, you’ll constantly be crossing bridges and admiring the scenic, narrow waterways. And of course, there’s the Grand Canal, the main, large waterway that winds through the middle of the city, and is full of gondolas and gorgeous buildings featuring Venetian architecture.
Besides wandering the passageways and bridges of the city, there are really quite a lot of things to see and do in Venice. San Marco Square has the San Marco Basilica, the Doge’s Palace (the doge was the ruler of the city when Venice was at the height of power), and the St Mark’s Bell Tower. You should definitely stop by the Teatro La Fenice, one of the most important opera houses in Italy, and of course, take a gondola ride on the canals.
Venice is located on the coast of northeastern Italy, along the Adriatic Sea. You can easily arrive via the international airport, or by train. Driving is not recommended – you would have to park your car on the mainland before taking a water taxi or bus into Venice. Once you’re in Venice, the only transportation options are water taxis or water buses.
Spring and early fall are the best time to visit – crowds are a little bit lower and the weather isn’t too hot. In summer, crowds are very high, and in winter there is a chance of flooding in the city.
Where to Stay: Hotel Olimpia Venice
Cortina D’Ampezzo
Recommended by Taylor of No Trace Travel
Cortina D’Ampezzo, located in the heart of the Dolomites is a haven for outdoor adventurists year round. You can easily reach this alpine town by bus from nearby major cities, like Venice or Milan. Once there, the town is easily walkable, giving you a chance to window shop the luxury boutiques and take in the mountains surrounding the area. While you don’t need a car to get there and around the town center, you certainly will want one to freely explore the mountainous landscape at your own pace.
The best time to visit is during the summer months of June to September, providing comfortable weather to hike nearby trails such as Cinque Torri or the famous Cadini Group. However, if you can brave the cold weather then this town turns into a winter wonderland! Explore Cortina D’Ampezzo in winter to experience the most scenic ski slopes in Europe on the world-class Sella Ronda.
The town is gearing up for its second round of hosting the Winter Olympics in 2026, so mark your calendars and plan ahead to be there for all the action!
Where to Stay: HOTEL de LEN
Treviso
Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World
Treviso is a medium-sized city in the region of Veneto, in northern Italy, and a unique place to visit on a day trip from Venice. Located just about 40 km and an easy train ride under 40 minutes, Treviso will give you a completely different feel compared to Venice. Still unknown to mass tourism, Treviso has very much remained true to its local spirit.
Make sure to go for a walk around the historic center of town, where you can spot the walls and ramparts that were built to defend the city when it joined the Republic of Venice at the turn of the 13th century. It’s also fun to spot the many canals.
A favorite thing to do in Treviso is actually eating! There is a large fishing market which means fish and seafood are always on the menu. Stop for an aperitif before heading back to Venice and try fried calamari – best if accompanied by a glass of Prosecco wine, which is produced in this very region.
The best time to visit Treviso is in the spring. Summer can be terribly hot and humid here, whereas it can be regularly cloudy and foggy in the winter.
Where to Stay: B&B Villa Romano
Verona
Recommended by Adrienn of Travel Tip Zone
Verona is an excellent Northern Italian destination that offers travelers captivating experiences. This Northern Italian city is known for its rich historical tradition and vibrant cultural life, making it a must for anyone interested in history and culture.
Verona is easily accessible whether you’re traveling by car or public transportation. Regardless of the direction you’re coming from, Verona is well-connected by an excellent network of highways to cities like Milan, Venice, Bologna, and South Tyrol. Moreover, there are train and bus options available from other major Italian cities to reach Verona.
Like most Northern Italian cities, Verona has cold winters and hot summers. For this reason, it is most recommended to visit in the spring and fall when the temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing.
Verona’s most popular attractions include the well-preserved Roman Arena, Juliet’s House with its famous balcony, the bustling Piazza delle Erbe, and the stunning Castelvecchio. For the best views, visit Castel San Pietro or take a walk along the banks of the Adige River.
Verona is famous for its delicious cuisine. Try traditional dishes such as risotto al Amarone and enjoy local wines at cozy trattorias and osterias.
Beyond Verona, you’ll find picturesque landscapes, including the nearby Lake Garda, which offers wonderful views and the opportunity for swimming and water sports.
Overall, Verona, as an attractive city in Northern Italy, is an excellent travel destination. With its rich historical heritage and pleasant surroundings, this charming city has something to offer for everyone.
Where to Stay: Hotel Giulietta e Romeo
Vicenza
Recommended by Milene & Paul of Surf & Unwind
Explore the hidden gem of Vicenza, a charming town nestled perfectly between Verona and Venice. One of the best cities in northern Italy to visit.
Just a short train journey away, Vicenza offers an authentic Italian experience without the bustling crowds and hefty price tags of its popular neighbors.
Vicenza might not have Verona’s medieval allure and Venice’s intricate canal systems, but it boasts architectural beauty.
The town is home to twenty-three UNESCO Heritage buildings such as Teatro Olimpico, Pallazzo Chiericati and Basilica Palladiana, and it’s renowned for the Palladian Villas of the Veneto, designed by the celebrated Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio.
On summer evenings, there’s nothing better than to enjoy a delicious fresco meal at Piazza dei Signori (we recommend the pizza at Angolo Palladio) followed by an Aperol Spritz at Una Spiaggia per Vicenza, an urban beach bar with a vibrant atmosphere.
To end the night with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, head to Monte Berico where you can see Vicenza aglow under the starlit sky.
With its rich history, exquisite architecture, and delightful culinary scene, Vicenza offers a wonderful escape, waiting to be discovered.
Where to Stay: Relais Santa Corona
Region of Emilio Romano, Towns in Northern Italy
Modena
Recommended by Francesca of Little Lost Travel
Modena is a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy. It’s famous for being the home of traditional balsamic vinegar and the opera singer Luciano Pavarotti.
The city is also regarded as the world’s ‘Supercar Capital’ as some of the biggest luxury Italian car brands such as Lamborghini, Ferrari and Maserati are right on its doorstep.
One of the first things I recommend doing is checking out the UNESCO World Heritage Torre Civica and Piazza Grande. The 12th-century cathedral and bell tower are an incredible example of early Romanesque art and a real feast for the eyes.
Afterwards, get a (quite literal) taste of history by sampling traditional balsamic vinegar at La Consorteria 1966. Tastings are about €15 per person. You’ll learn about the vinegar’s Protected Design of Origin status and why it takes a minimum of 12 years to mature.
If you’re a car lover, make sure you also visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum with its collection of iconic Ferrari supercar models and the story behind the man who made them.
My favorite time of year to visit Modena is September as the peak season crowds start to die down but the weather is still a pleasant 25 degrees Celsius. I would still recommend bringing a jacket as evenings get cool.
Modena is well connected by public transport links so you don’t need to drive. There’s a bus network to get around the area and a train station which links other major cities.
Where to Stay: Hotel Castello
Bologna
Recommended by Martha of May Cause Wanderlust
There are two main (and persuasive) reasons to visit Bologna, a city in northern Italy.
The first is that its location in the heart of the Emilia Romagna region means it’s a foodie’s paradise. All the world-class produce from the region can be found here: Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiana Reggiano and Aceto Balsamico de Moderna. And it has its own traditional pasta dish. Not Spaghetti Bolognese, as many would assume (although you will be able to find a version of this, made with tagliatelle, on restaurant menus); the dish of Bologna is actually tortellini in broth.
Lots of the things to do in Bologna involve food! Top of the list is to take a food tour to learn about the food traditions, to discover the best markets and restaurants and, of course, to taste some delicious delicacies.
The second reason to visit Bologna is its sumptuous architecture. This medieval university city is known for the red-orange palette of its buildings and for its attractive porticoes, which are arched covered walkways.
There are 40 km of porticoes in the center of Bologna and they are an UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s almost a rite of passage to walk the Portico of San Luca, which goes from the city center out to a church in the surrounding hills. It’s hard work, though!
Bologna is well-connected by its airport and train station and there’s no need to hire a car to explore the city itself. It’s also a great stop on your way south for some time in Rome! Come in the shoulder season to avoid the heat (especially if you plan to walk the uphill San Luca Portico!).
Where to Stay: Savhotel
