14-Day Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pavé

Start with freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee at this popular local bakery.
Drive to the Duomo area.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Marvel at Milan's stunning cathedral; don’t miss the rooftop views.
Walk to the cathedral.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Grab a delicious panzerotto, a local pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella.
Proceed towards the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through this stunning shopping gallery and enjoy the architecture.
Walk around the area.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Explore the castle grounds and visit its museums.
Walk to the castle.
EUR10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Indulge in traditional Milanese risotto and ossobuco.
Drive back to your accommodation.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Bergamo Gateway

Bergamo, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè del Tasso

Enjoy a warm croissant and espresso in this historic café.
Drive north to Bergamo.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Città Alta

Wander through the medieval streets of the upper town and enjoy stunning views.
Take the funicular to Città Alta.
EUR3, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Mimmo

Sample local specialties like casoncelli (pasta) and polenta.
Stroll down to Piazza Vecchia.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Accademia Carrara

Discover works by famous artists in this art gallery.
Drive to the gallery.
EUR6, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Il Fornaio

Sample authentic Italian pizzas and pastries.
Return to the city center.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bacco

Enjoy lakeside views with your cappuccino and local pastries.
Drive to around Lake Como.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bellagio

Take a ferry to Bellagio and wander through the picturesque streets.
Ferry departure from Varenna.
EUR20, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Il Caminetto

Enjoy fresh fish dishes with a view of the lake.
Continue exploring Bellagio.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Villa Melzi

Tour the beautiful gardens and villa located in Bellagio.
Walk from the restaurant.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Head to Varenna

Visit this charming village before you check into your stay.
Take the ferry back to Varenna.
EUR15, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Vecchia Varenna

Dine on local specialties and sip on a glass of wine.
Walk back to your accommodation.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Charming Varenna

Varenna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Varenna

Start your day with a delightful breakfast overlooking the lake.
Walk to the café.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Villa Monastero

Explore the picturesque villa and its beautiful botanical garden.
Walk to Villa Monastero.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Cavatappi

Savor hearty regional dishes and stunning lake views.
Walk down to the restaurant.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hike to the Castello di Vezio

Embark on the beautiful hike up to the castle for panoramic views.
Start the hike from the village.
EUR5, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return for Leisure

Relax in the village or visit local artisan shops.
Stroll through Varenna.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante La Vista

Delight in authentic local dishes amidst breathtaking views.
Drive to your accommodation.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Bellagio Bliss

Bellagio, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Rossi

Indulge in lovely pastries and a rich coffee to kick off your day.
Drive to Bellagio.
EUR12, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Villa Serbelloni

Visit the graceful gardens of Villa Serbelloni and its beautiful views.
Hike up to the villa.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Gardens of Villa Melzi

Take your time wandering through these stunning gardens along the lake.
Stroll down from the villa.
EUR9, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante da Tonino

Enjoy a lovely lunch with authentic Italian dishes and local wines.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Ferry Ride on Lake Como

Enjoy a relaxing ferry ride across the lake, taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Board at Bellagio ferry terminal.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Pergola

Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine paired with local wines.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Historical Verona

Verona, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gelateria La Romana

Start your day with a sweet treat—an Italian gelato—it’s never too early!
Drive to Verona.
EUR8, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Arena di Verona

Marvel at this ancient Roman amphitheater and its stunning architecture.
Walk to the arena.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Al Duca

Indulge in risotto alla melanzana while dining in this cozy atmosphere.
Walk from the arena.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Juliet's House

A visit to the famous balcony and the charming surroundings is a must.
Walk to Juliet's House.
EUR6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Piazza delle Erbe

Stroll through this lively piazza filled with cafes and historic buildings.
Head over on foot.
EUR0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Al Pompiere

Savor traditional Veronese dishes in a historic setting.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Cultural Mantua

Mantua, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Verona

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee before hitting the road.
Drive to Mantua.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Palazzo Ducale

Explore the expansive rooms and art collections of this historic palace.
Walk to the palace.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hostaria 800

Feast on local Mantuan specialties in a welcoming trattoria.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Teatro Scientifico

A beautifully preserved 18th-century theater worth exploring.
Take a short walk.
EUR5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Palazzo Te

Wander through the magnificent gardens and eclectic palace.
Drive to Palazzo Te.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Francesco

End the day with delicious homemade pasta in a cozy setting.
Drive back to the city center.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Culinary Bologna

Bologna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Zamboni

Sip coffee and indulge in local pastries for a sweet start.
Drive to Bologna.
EUR10, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Piazza Maggiore

Take in the beautiful architecture of Bologna's main square.
Walk around the piazza.
EUR0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tour the Basilica di San Petronio

Marvel at the remarkable frescoes and Gothic architecture.
A short walk from the piazza.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Meloncello

Savor home-made tortellini and other regional dishes.
Drive to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Archiginnasio

Explore the historic anatomy theater and beautiful library.
Drive to the Archiginnasio.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Anna Maria

End your day with traditional Bologna dishes amidst a local atmosphere.
Short drive back to the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Artistic Ferrara

Ferrara, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Lavazza

Start your day with Italian coffee and pastries.
Drive to Ferrara.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Castello Estense

Explore this medieval castle with its impressive moat and towers.
Walk to the castle.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Palazzo dei Diamanti

Discover the beautiful art exhibitions housed in this unique building.
Stroll to the Palazzo.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria La Fermata

Enjoy local dishes such as the celebrated cappellacci di zucca.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Stroll through the city center

Take in the architecture and relax in the lively atmosphere.
Walk through Ferrara's streets.
EUR0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Al Biondo

Dine on regional specialties in a classic trattoria.
Drive back to your accommodation.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Mosaics of Ravenna

Ravenna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Gianni

Enjoy delicious local pastries and coffee to start the day.
Drive to Ravenna.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Basilica di San Vitale

Marvel at the stunning Byzantine mosaics in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk to the basilica.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

See more exquisite mosaics and architecture within this quiet mausoleum.
Stroll over to the mausoleum.
EUR8, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Al 4 Delle Città

Sample local dishes such as the famous piadina.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Baptistery of Neon

Discover this ancient site with captivating mosaics and history.
Drive to the baptistery.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Deliana

Indulge in traditional dishes and great local wine.
Short drive to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Cheese in Parma

Parma, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Ristorante Gallo

Start your day with a lovely cappuccino and fresh pastry.
Drive to Parma.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Parma Cathedral

Admire beautiful frescoes in this stunning Romanesque cathedral.
Walk to the cathedral.
EUR0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Taste Parmigiano Reggiano

Visit a local farm and learn about the cheese production with tastings.
Drive to the farm (pre-book tours).
EUR25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Corrieri

Relish an authentic Parmigiana meal with local flavors.
Drive back to the city center.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Teatro Regio

Take a walk through the beautiful opera house, a hallmark of Parma.
Stroll to the opera house.
EUR10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante La Forchetta

Indulge in local dishes in a well-known restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
Drive to the restaurant.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Cinque Terre Adventure

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Centrale

Savor a delightful breakfast before venturing to the coast.
Drive to La Spezia, then take a train to the Cinque Terre.
EUR10, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Monterosso al Mare

Relax at the beach and visit the picturesque town.
Take the train from La Spezia.
EUR5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Carugio

Enjoy local seafood dishes in a lovely setting.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hiking to Vernazza

Embark on a scenic hike through vineyards to Vernazza, one of the most beautiful villages.
Start the hike from Monterosso.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante da Giorgio

Savor more coastal flavors at this charming restaurant by the sea.
Stroll to the restaurant.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Portofino Retreat

Portofino, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Portofino

Indulge in delightful pastries and strong Italian coffee.
Drive to Portofino.
EUR10, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Portofino Harbor

Stroll along the stunning waterfront and take beautiful photos.
Walk around the harbor.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Armandino

Dine on fresh seafood and enjoy local wines with your meal.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Castello Brown

Explore the historic castle and its beautiful gardens.
Walk up to Castello Brown.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend some time unwinding on the stunning beach.
Return to the waterfront.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Pescatore

Finish your day with exquisite Italian cuisine and breathtaking views.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR50, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Return to Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè p.a.

Enjoy a final Italian breakfast in the beautiful Portofino.
Drive back to Milan.
EUR10, 2 hours

10:30AM

Final Shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Spend your last day indulging in some shopping souvenirs.
Drive to the center of Milan.
EUR0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Grab your last panzerotto before leaving Milan.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

Admire impressive collections of Italian Renaissance art.
Drive to the art gallery.
EUR12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Ristorante Cracco

Enjoy a luxurious final dinner at one of Milan’s most celebrated restaurants.
Head to the restaurant.
EUR80, 2 hours
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