21 Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy: My Absolute Favorites

Northern Italy is one of the most popular travel regions in Europe and attracts millions of travelers every year. The region offers an impressive variety of experiences, from historic cities and charming towns to beautiful lakes, mountains, and coastal areas.

For me, Northern Italy is one of my favorite destinations in Europe, and I truly believe it’s a must-visit if you enjoy culture, nature, and great food.

It’s no surprise that many travelers ask the same questions: What are the best places to visit in Northern Italy? Which destinations are really worth your time? And how can you create the perfect itinerary?

In this travel guide, I’ll show you the most beautiful places in Northern Italy that you shouldn’t miss.

First, you’ll find an overview of the top destinations in Northern Italy. Then I’ll share more detailed descriptions of each place. At the end of the article, I’ll answer some of the most common questions to help you plan your trip with confidence.

List of the best places in Northern Italy

Now let’s take a closer look at the 21 best places to visit in Northern Italy.

I’ll go through each destination in detail and share the most important things to know.

The places are listed in the same 6 categories to help you easily find the destination that suits you best.

Best cities to visit in Northern Italy

These are, in my opinion, the most beautiful cities in Northern Italy that made it onto the list of the best places to visit:

1. Trieste

Trieste is the easternmost city in Italy and the capital of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It’s a historic port city located close to the Slovenian border, right where the Alps meet the Adriatic Sea.

The city has plenty of sights to see, so I recommend spending at least 1–2 days here.

In Trieste, don’t miss the main highlights, such as Canal Grande, Piazza della Borsa, Piazza Unità d’Italia, and the Roman Theatre of Trieste. Just outside the city, Miramare Castle is a must-visit, famous for its beautiful gardens and sea views.

One of my personal favorite places is the Barcola seaside promenade near Pineta di Barcola. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk at sunset, and in summer you can also swim here.

If you have extra time, nearby Slovenian towns like Koper, Izola, and Piran are great options for an easy day trip.

2. Venice

Venice, the capital of Veneto, is one of the most famous Italian cities in the world and a place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Northern Italy.

I recommend exploring Venice on foot or by vaporetto, the local water bus, which is the easiest way to get around the city.

Don’t miss the main highlights, including St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and the Accademia Bridge, which offers one of the best views of the Grand Canal. For an even better panorama, climb the bell tower at St. Mark’s Square.

A gondola ride is also a popular activity and a unique way to experience Venice from the water.

Venice is known for its excellent Italian restaurants. Some of my personal favorites are the Ae Oche restaurants and Trattoria Da Gigi. You may also recognize the famous gelato from Suso on social media, it’s one of the most popular ice cream spots in the city and worth trying.

If you have more time, take a boat trip to Murano and Burano. My tip is to visit Venice early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds and parking issues.

3. Verona

Verona is a beautiful historic city located close to Lake Garda and makes a perfect stop during a Northern Italy trip.

I think it’s ideal for a one-day visit, but you can easily stay longer if you enjoy city walks and Italian atmosphere.

Start by exploring the charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss Juliet’s House, the famous Verona Arena, and Piazza delle Erbe, one of the liveliest squares in the city. The Arena is still used for concerts and opera performances, and it’s worth seeing even if you don’t go inside.

For the best views over Verona, walk up to Castel San Pietro. From here, you’ll get a stunning panorama of the city and the Adige River.

4. Milan

Milan is a world-famous city and a must-visit destination when traveling in Northern Italy. It’s known for fashion, shopping, culture, and great food, and it’s also one of the most important travel hubs in Italy, making it easy to explore the region from here.

Don’t miss the Duomo di Milano, one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe, and the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

While walking through the Galleria, stop near the central area and look for the famous bull mosaic on the floor. According to local tradition, you should place one foot on the bull’s heels and spin around to bring good luck.

Other highlights include Castello Sforzesco, Parco Sempione, and the Arco della Pace.

For food, my personal favorite is Mama Eat, while Pizzeria Capuano’s – Londonio is also a popular choice for pizza. For the best view of the Duomo, visit Terrazza Duomo 21, a bar overlooking the cathedral.

I return to Milan often because of its endless options and its excellent location for easy day trips nearby.

5. Bologna

Bologna is a lively and authentic city in Northern Italy, best known for its food, historic center, and truly Italian atmosphere.

It’s also one of Italy’s most important transport hubs, making it a perfect base if you plan to explore other cities like Florence, Milan, or Venice by car or train.

Start your visit in the historic old town, where you’ll find Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, and the famous Two Towers. Walking under Bologna’s long walkways is an experience on its own.

For great views over the city, head up to San Luca Sanctuary or Torre Asinelli.

Bologna is often called the food capital of Italy, and you’ll quickly understand why. My personal favorite restaurant is Pizzeria Pantera Rosa, where you can also find excellent gluten-free pizza.

I recommend spending at least one full day in Bologna to enjoy both the sights and the food.

Best mountain areas in Northern Italy

Now let’s see my two favorite mountain areas on the list:

6. Dolomites

The Dolomites are one of the most unique natural areas not only in Northern Italy, but in the world. In my opinion, this region is a true must-visit if you’re traveling in Italy, especially if you love nature and mountain scenery.

The area is famous for its dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, scenic mountain roads, and crystal-clear lakes.

Some of the most breathtaking places include Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cadini di Misurina, Lake Limides, Alpe di Siusi, and Seceda. Each offers a different experience, from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

My personal favorites are Lake Braies, Lake Sorapis, and Lake Carezza. Lake Sorapis requires a moderate hike, while Lake Braies and Lake Carezza are easy to reach by car.

Charming towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Ortisei, and Bruneck are great bases for sightseeing and accommodation.

If you enjoy fresh air, hiking, and unforgettable views, the Dolomites belong on your bucket list.

7. Stelvio Pass

Stelvio Pass, also known as Passo dello Stelvio, is the highest paved mountain pass in Italy and one of the most famous mountain roads in Europe. It’s especially popular with drivers, motorcyclists, and cyclists who come here for the challenge and the views.

The pass is usually open from late spring to autumn and reaches an altitude of 2,757 meters.

As you climb higher, you’ll drive through countless hairpin turns while enjoying breathtaking mountain scenery. Even in summer, it’s common to see snow along the road, which makes the experience even more special.

I have a personal connection to Stelvio Pass, not only because it’s stunning, but also because we’ve owned an Alfa Romeo Stelvio for years, named after this mountain pass. Driving this road with that car was an unforgettable experience.

My tip is to check road conditions before you go and start early in the morning.

Best lakes of Northern Italy

Besides mountain areas, lakes are also among my favorite travel destinations. That’s why I’ve collected some of the most beautiful lakes you should visit in Northern Italy.

Even though I already mentioned several lakes earlier in the Dolomites section, these lakes are also well worth adding to your Northern Italy itinerary:

8. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and one of the most popular lake destinations in Europe.

Thanks to its mild climate, beautiful landscapes, and wide range of activities, it’s loved by families, cyclists, and outdoor lovers.

Some of the most famous towns around Lake Garda are Sirmione in the south and Riva del Garda in the north. I also really like Limone sul Garda and Malcesine, both offering charming old towns and great lake views. Sirmione is the most visited spot, known for its castle, narrow streets, beaches, and thermal baths.

One of the best things you can do here is take a boat trip on the lake. Seeing the towns and surrounding mountains from the water gives you a completely different and very special perspective.

Lake Garda can get very crowded, especially in summer, so I recommend visiting outside peak season if possible.

9. Lake Resia

Lake Resia is a true hidden gem in the very north of Italy, close to the Austrian border.

The lake was artificially created in the mid-20th century when a dam flooded the valley, including the villages nearby.

What makes Lake Resia so unique is the old church tower that still rises out of the water. This surreal sight has become one of the most photographed spots in Northern Italy. The area around the lake is amazing and peaceful, and perfect for walking, cycling, or short hikes.

I recommend stopping here if you’re traveling near Bolzano or driving to or from the Stelvio Pass.

Even a short visit is worth it, as Lake Resia offers a very different experience from Italy’s more famous lakes and feels calm and untouched compared to busy tourist destinations.

10. Lake Livigno

Lake Livigno is another still relatively unknown lake in Northern Italy and a place many travelers don’t know about.

You’ll find it next to the town of Livigno, close to the Swiss border, surrounded by high mountains that create an impressive alpine setting.

Livigno itself is well known as a winter ski resort, but I think the lake is best visited in summer, when the area is perfect for hiking and relaxing in nature.

One of the best viewpoints over the lake is Crap de La Paré, which you can reach on a short and not too difficult hike. I highly recommend seeing the lake from this viewpoint.

After your walk or hike, stop by Ristorante Bar Ermellino near the parking area for a tasty local meal.

Lake Livigno is ideal if you’re looking for fresh air, mountain views, and fewer crowds.

11. Lake Como

Lake Como is one of the most famous lakes in Italy and is located in the Lombardy region.

It’s the third-largest lake in the country and one of the deepest lakes in Europe.

Surrounded by mountains, elegant villas, and colorful lakeside towns, Lake Como has a fairytale-like atmosphere.

The most popular towns around the lake are Como, Bellagio, Lecco, and Varenna, with Varenna being especially popular on social media.

One of the best ways to explore the area is by boat, as the views from the water are truly stunning.

You can visit historic villas, walk through charming villages, and simply enjoy the scenery.

My tip is to visit Lake Como during shoulder season, as summer crowds can be overwhelming. Outside peak months, getting around and finding restaurants is much more enjoyable.

12. Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is a beautiful lake shared between Italy and Switzerland and is slightly less crowded than Lake Como.

One of its most famous towns is Locarno, located on the Swiss side, known for its colorful Piazza Grande and lakeside promenade.

On the Italian side, one of the must-see sights is Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso. This historic monastery is built directly into a cliff above the lake and offers breathtaking views. It’s one of the most unique and atmospheric places around Lake Maggiore.

The lake is ideal if you enjoy relaxed sightseeing, boat trips, and interesting lakeside towns such as Arona, Angera and Laveno.

I think Lake Maggiore is a great choice if you want beautiful scenery without the intense crowds of some other Italian lakes.

Best coastal towns in Northern Italy

If you’re looking for coastal views or a beach holiday, these are the destinations I recommend:

13. Jesolo

Jesolo might not be as famous as some of Italy’s top destinations, but thanks to its summer popularity, it deserves a place on this list.

Lido di Jesolo is one of the most popular beach resorts on the Adriatic coast. In summer, it attracts many visitors looking for beach holidays, water sports, camping, and relaxed seaside time. Jesolo is especially popular with families and travelers who want an easy and comfortable beach destination.

Here, you’ll find long sandy beaches, a wide choice of hotels and restaurants, pleasant seaside promenades, and good infrastructure.

If you’re traveling by car, I also recommend stopping at the outlet center near the San Donà di Piave highway exit. It’s a great place for some shopping on your way to or from Jesolo.

If you’re visiting Northern Italy in summer and want a classic beach holiday with sandy beaches, Jesolo is a very good choice.

14. Portofino

Portofino is one of the most picturesque fishing villages on the Italian Riviera and one of the most photographed places in the region. It’s famous for its colorful houses, small harbor, and elegant seaside atmosphere.

One of the main highlights is Castello Brown, a historic fortress located on a hill above the village. From here, you’ll get beautiful panoramic views of the coastline and the harbor below, making it a perfect photo spot.

Portofino is also great for outdoor activities such as hiking, sailing, and boat trips along the coast.

You can reach Portofino by car, but during peak season it’s often a better idea to take a boat from Rapallo. This way, you avoid traffic and parking issues and enjoy scenic views along the coast.

15. Camogli

Camogli is a charming and less touristy seaside town on the Italian Riviera, surrounded by hills and the sea. Compared to nearby famous destinations, it feels more local and relaxed, which is exactly why I like it so much.

One of the main sights is Castel Dragone, located above the town. Right next to it, you’ll find a scenic pier with colorful houses, sea views, the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, and the famous whale tail statue (Coda di Balena). The views here are simply breathtaking, especially at sunset.

Camogli has a dark pebble beach, which I personally don’t find ideal for swimming, but beach time is still possible.

If you’re here, don’t miss CIVICO 32 – Pizzeria Ristorante near the harbor. They serve excellent pizza, including gluten-free options.

16. Imperia

Imperia is a small coastal city located west of Genoa, right along the highway heading toward France. It’s known for its colorful buildings, relaxed Riviera atmosphere, and scenic coastline.

One of the most interesting sights is Villa Grock, a unique and playful villa built by a famous clown and artist. I also recommend walking around the harbor area and exploring Borgo Parasio, the historic old town with narrow streets and lovely sea views.

Imperia is less crowded than some other Riviera destinations and feels more authentic.

If you have extra time, you can also visit nearby Sanremo, which has a similar coastal vibe and is easy to reach from here.

17. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a famous coastal area and a wine region made up of five small villages on the northwest coast of Italy: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso al Mare.

Each village is built into the cliffs and features colorful houses, small harbors, vineyards, and beautiful coastal views. The area is also known for its local wines and Ligurian cuisine, including pesto alla genovese.

Manarola and Vernazza are absolute must-sees, but Riomaggiore is also well worth a visit. In Manarola, I recommend Nessun Dorma, a popular spot with amazing views, great food, and even pesto-making classes.

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can get very crowded, especially in summer. Since the villages are hard to reach by car, the train is the best and easiest way to travel between them.

Best hidden gems in Northern Italy

Although this list already includes some lesser-known places, I want to highlight two more hidden spots in Northern Italy:

18. Fusine Lakes

The Fusine Lakes are one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Northern Italy, located near the town of Tarvisio, close to the Slovenian border.

The lakes sit at the foot of the Julian Alps and offer stunning views of the mountains, including the famous Mangart peak.

There are two lakes, and each has a slightly different atmosphere.

The lower lake has deep, vibrant-colored water and is surrounded by forests, wooden houses, and small restaurants. It’s easy to walk around and very peaceful.

The upper lake feels more wild and secluded, with rocky shores and a marshy landscape. You can reach it with a short and easy hike.

The Fusine Lakes are easy to reach by car, although there is a small entrance fee.

I highly recommend visiting if you’re near Udine or exploring the Julian Alps. Nearby places like Lake Predil, the Soča Valley in Slovenia, and the Zelenci Nature Reserve make this area perfect for a multi-day nature trip.

19. Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona

The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is one of the most hidden and unique places in Northern Italy. Many people have seen photos of it on social media, but few know exactly where it is.

This stunning sanctuary from the 17th century is built directly into a steep rock wall, which is what makes it so special.

You’ll find it near the small village of Spiazzi, above Lake Garda. You can reach it by driving along winding mountain roads, either from Lake Garda or from the A22 motorway.

Parking is available along the road near L’OstAria – Bar Food & Beverage.

From there, you can walk down to the sanctuary or take a local bus. The walk isn’t very long, but it’s steep and follows a paved road, with a few shortcuts through forest paths and steps.

If you want the best view, stop near the Madonna della Corona bus stop. You don’t even need to walk all the way down unless you want to visit the sanctuary inside.

Best cultural destinations in Northern Italy

To finish this list, I’d like to highlight two cultural destinations that are still considered part of Northern Italy and are well worth a visit if you’re interested in history, art, and iconic landmarks.

20. Pisa

Pisa is a medium-sized city near Italy’s western coast and makes a perfect day trip from Florence or even from the Cinque Terre. The historic center is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Pisa is known all over the world for its famous Leaning Tower, and seeing it in person is a true bucket-list moment.

The tower is located on the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli, together with the cathedral and the baptistery, which you can admire from the outside for free.

If you want to go inside the Leaning Tower or the other buildings, it’s best to book tickets in advance, as this is one of the most visited places in Italy.

I recommend spending a few hours here, enjoying the views and taking time for photos before moving on.

21. Florence

Florence is the capital of Tuscany and one of the most important cultural cities in Italy.

It’s famous for its art, architecture, and long history, and exploring the city often feels like stepping back in time.

Some of the most important sights include Piazza della Signoria with Palazzo Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore at Piazza di San Giovanni, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio.

The area around the Duomo is a must-see, and nearby you’ll find the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s famous David statue.

My personal favorite spot is Piazzale Michelangelo, where you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views over the entire city.

Florence easily deserves at least one full day, but you could spend much longer exploring its museums, streets, and local restaurants.

That was my list of the 21 best places to visit in Northern Italy.

If you’re planning a trip or need help building your Italy itinerary, keep reading.

I answer some of the most common questions below.

Common questions about visiting Northern Italy

Now let’s answer some of the most common questions travelers have when planning a trip to Northern Italy:

Is Northern Italy worth visiting?

Yes, Northern Italy is absolutely worth visiting.

This part of the country offers one of the highest numbers of attractions in Italy, with beautiful places in almost every region.

You’ll find stunning mountain landscapes, scenic lakes, historic cities, and impressive coastlines, often within short travel distances.

No matter where you go, there’s always something special to see.

What is the most beautiful part of Northern Italy?

Personally, my two favorite areas are the Ligurian coast and the Dolomites. I think these are the most unique regions in Northern Italy.

The Ligurian coast is famous for its colorful seaside towns, such as Portofino and the villages of Cinque Terre.

The Dolomites, on the other hand, are perfect for hiking in summer and offer some of the most beautiful mountain lakes and passes in the Alps.

In my opinion, these two areas stand out the most.

What are the prettiest cities to visit in Northern Italy?

In my opinion, Venice is the most beautiful and also the most unique city in Northern Italy. Its canals, architecture, and atmosphere make it truly special.

Many travelers also mention Verona as one of the prettiest cities, thanks to its historic center and romantic vibe.

How to get around Northern Italy

If you want to plan a Northern Italy road trip, renting a car is the best option.

You can rent a car in all major cities, with the widest choice usually available in Milan. A car gives you the freedom to visit smaller towns and hidden places.

Traveling by train is also a good option for major cities and popular destinations along the coast or lakes. However, for rural areas and more remote places, you’ll usually need a car or local buses.

Best time to visit Northern Italy

The best time to visit Northern Italy is during the shoulder seasons, especially if you’re not planning a beach holiday.

I recommend May, early June, late September, and early October. During these months, the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, walking, and boat trips, and you’ll avoid peak-season crowds and prices.

Summer is best if you plan to hike in the mountains or want a beach holiday. July and August are ideal for swimming, while mountain hiking is usually possible until late September.

Winter is less ideal, except for city trips or ski holidays.

Best things to do in Northern Italy

Northern Italy offers a wide range of activities:

• You can hike or cycle in the mountains, especially in the Dolomites and alpine regions.
• Boat trips on lakes like Garda, Como, or Maggiore are also very popular.
• Wellness and spa experiences are easy to find, especially near lakes and mountain areas.
• History lovers can explore historic buildings, churches, and old towns.
• Food lovers can enjoy Italian cuisine, wine tastings, and local specialties.
• Shopping is another highlight, especially in cities like Milan.

How many days are recommended for a trip to Northern Italy?

It’s hard to give an exact number, but I recommend at least 7–10 days to get a good first impression of Northern Italy.

Visiting all 21 places on this list would take several weeks, which can be tiring and isn’t ideal for most travelers.

If you choose a few destinations that interest you the most, you can easily spend 7–10 or even 14 days enjoying the region.

Is Northern Italy an expensive travel destination?

Northern Italy is best described as a mid-range destination by European standards. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s also not among the most expensive places in Europe.

Thanks to the wide range of accommodation options, you can easily plan a low-budget trip.

In shoulder season, you can often find 3–4 star hotels for around €100–150 per night for two people. Food is generally affordable outside the most touristy areas. The main extra cost is transportation, especially highway tolls, which can be quite expensive in Northern Italy.

Overall, I think Northern Italy offers good value for money.

This was my list of the 21 best places to visit in Northern Italy, along with the most important things you should know before planning a trip to this region.

In this guide, I’ve shared a wide variety of destinations, from historic cities and colorful fishing towns to beautiful beaches, famous landmarks, breathtaking mountain areas, and unique natural attractions. Together, they show how diverse and exciting Northern Italy really is. It’s no surprise that this region is a favorite among travelers, and once you visit, you’ll understand why.

I hope this list has given you enough inspiration to start planning your next trip to Northern Italy. No matter what type of traveler you are, you’ll find something here that suits you.

If you liked the places on this list and feel inspired to travel, don’t wait too long! Start planning your trip and head to Northern Italy!