12-Day North Italy Road Trip: Relaxation, City Experiences, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Explore Milan

Milan, Italy

9:00 AM

Visit the Duomo

Kick off your Italian adventure with a visit to the stunning Cathedral of Milan, where you can wander around its gothic architecture and panoramic views from the rooftop.
Take the metro from your hotel in Milan to Duomo station.
EUR10, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Enjoy a leisurely walk through Italy's oldest active shopping gallery, filled with high-end boutiques and charming cafés.
Walking distance from the Duomo.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Luini

Taste the world's best panzerotti at this iconic eatery, a local favorite located close to the Duomo.
5-minute walk from Galleria.
EUR8, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Sforza Castle

Explore the historic castle and its museums set in beautiful parks, perfect for some relaxation after lunch.
Walk 20 minutes or take a tram.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Savini

End the day with a fine dining experience at Savini, where authentic Milanese cuisine awaits you.
Head back to Galleria and walk 10 minutes.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Art and Nature

Milan, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pavé

Start your morning with freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries at this popular bakery.
Take the metro to Repubblica.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

Explore one of Italy's most important art galleries featuring an extensive collection of Renaissance art.
Take the tram to Brera.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria della Storia

Enjoy traditional Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere with impeccable service.
Walk 15 minutes to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli

Relax in these beautiful public gardens, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
7-minute walk from lunch location.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Navigli District

Wander through the canals of this vibrant neighborhood, known for its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere.
Continue by metro to Porta Genova.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Al Pont de Ferr

Savor innovative cuisine with a splendid view of the canals in one of Milan's most unique dining spots.
Walk 10 minutes from Navigli.
EUR45, 2 hours
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Day 3: Discover Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

7:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Lake Como.
15-minute drive towards Lake Como.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Boat Tour of Lake Como

Take a scenic boat tour of Lake Como, admiring its incredible villas and picturesque landscapes.
Board the boat at Como city center.
EUR20, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Punta

Taste delightful Italian cuisine with lake views at this charming eatery in Bellagio.
Access by boat from Como.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Bellagio

Wander through the lovely streets of Bellagio, known for its quaint shops and stunning views of the lake.
Walking around the local area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to hotel

Head back to your accommodation for a bit of rest and relaxation.
Boat back to Como then drive to hotel.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Mistral

Conclude your day with fine dining, featuring local flavors and a beautiful setting overlooking the lake.
Drive within 15 minutes.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Explore Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

9:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast on the terrace overlooking the splendid lake views.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Villa Carlotta

Discover this historic villa known for its beautiful gardens and art collections.
15-minute drive or boat ride from your hotel.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Nino

Indulge in traditional Italian fare at this welcoming trattoria with a local vibe.
Drive 15 minutes from Villa.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Hiking in Valsassina

Explore the natural beauty of the Valsassina valley with its breathtaking hiking trails.
Drive 30 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00 PM

Return to hotel

After a fulfilling day, drive back to relax at your hotel.
Return to your accommodations.
Free, 30 minutes

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Casta Diva

Savor a gourmet Italian dinner right next to the lake in a stunning setting.
Driving distance from your hotel.
EUR70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Charming Bergamo

Bergamo, Italy

9:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for your day with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Drive to Bergamo

Take a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour to Bergamo.
Drive to Bergamo via scenic routes.
Free, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Explore Città Alta

Wander the charming streets of Bergamo’s upper city and visit the historic attractions, including the Piazza Vecchia.
Walking in Città Alta.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Parietti

Enjoy traditional Bergamasque dishes in a cozy setting in the heart of Città Alta.
Short walk from the main attractions.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Accademia Carrara

Admire the impressive collection of Renaissance art at this renowned art gallery.
Walking distance from lunch.
EUR8, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to hotel

After a day exploring, head back to your hotel to relax.
Drive back to Lake Como.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Giacomo

End your day with a meal that fuses tradition and innovation in a delightful way.
Short drive from hotel.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 6: Romantic Verona

Verona, Italy

8:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before setting off to Verona.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Verona

Travel to Verona, approximately a 2-hour scenic drive.
Drive from Lake Como to Verona.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Osteria al Duca

Savor authentic Veronese cuisine in a quaint atmosphere with friendly service.
Just a 5-minute walk from the main square.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Juliet’s House

Explore the famous Casa di Giulietta, a must-see landmark famous for its romantic ambiance.
15-minute walk from lunch.
EUR6, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Wander the Historic Center

Stroll around Verona's charming center, taking in the stunning architecture, shops, and vistas.
Walk around the local area.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Antica Bottega del Vino

Experience a memorable dinner with amazing local wines and traditional dishes in Verona's oldest wine tavern.
Walking distance from the historic center.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 7: Venice Vibes

Venice, Italy

8:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast in Verona before moving to Venice.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Venice

Get ready for an exciting drive to Venice, roughly 1.5 hours through beautiful landscapes.
Drive to Venice via A4.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria al Gatto Nero

Dine at this famous trattoria that serves up delicious local fish dishes.
Boat or walk to Burano from Venice.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore the Islands of Murano and Burano

Discover the world-renowned glassmaking of Murano and the colorful charm of Burano.
Take a vaporetto (water bus) between the islands.
EUR15, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Venice

Head back to Venice to explore the iconic sights.
Take the vaporetto back to Venice.
EUR15, 30 minutes

6:30 PM

Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere

Relish modern Venetian cuisine with a menu that changes daily based on fresh produce and seafood.
Walking distance from Piazza San Marco.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 8: Venice Wanderings

Venice, Italy

8:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with coffee and fresh pastries in the heart of Venice.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit St. Mark's Basilica

Marvel at the golden mosaics and stunning architecture of one of the most famous churches in Venice.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Doge's Palace

Wander through the majestic halls of the Doge's residence and learn about Venice’s rich history.
Adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cantina do Mori

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of Venice's oldest wine bars where you can taste local cicchetti.
15-minute walk from Doge's Palace.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Gondola Ride

Experience a classic gondola ride through Venice’s iconic canals.
Gondola station near the Grand Canal.
EUR80, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Quadri

Conclude your Venetian experience with a fine dining experience overlooking St. Mark's Square.
Walking distance from your previous locations.
EUR70, 2 hours
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Day 9: Taste of Bologna

Bologna, Italy

8:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to Bologna.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Bologna

Set off for Bologna, approximately a 2-hour drive that brings you to Italy's food capital.
Drive via A13 towards Bologna.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Gianni

Indulge in classic Bolognese pasta dishes at this popular local trattoria.
Near the main square.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Piazza Maggiore

Explore the historic heart of the city, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant shops.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Bologna Food Tour

Join a guided food tour to discover the city's culinary gems and hidden specialties.
Starts at a central location.
EUR75, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Al Sangiovese

Wrap up your day with hearty regional dishes paired with excellent local wines.
Walking distance from your previous tour.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 10: Delicious Modena

Modena, Italy

8:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Kickstart your day with a fulfilling breakfast at your Bologna hotel.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Modena

Head to Modena, a short drive of around 45 minutes known for its balsamic vinegar.
Driving via SS486.
Free, 45 minutes

11:00 AM

Visit Acetaia Giuseppe Giusti

Take a tour of one of the oldest balsamic vinegar producers and enjoy tastings.
Drive to the acetaia.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria Francescana

Dine at the world-renowned restaurant by Chef Massimo Bottura, featuring innovative Italian cuisine (reservation needed).
Driving distance from the acetaia.
EUR300, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore the City Center

Wander through the historic heart of Modena, stopping by the UNESCO-listed cathedral.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hosteria Giusti

Enjoy an authentic Modenese meal in a lovely setting, renowned for its traditional recipes.
A short walk from the city center.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 11: Pleasant Parma

Parma, Italy

8:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before departing for Parma.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Parma

Travel to Parma, a drive of about 30 minutes known for its famous prosciutto and cheese.
Head south via SP343.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00 AM

Visit the Parma Cathedral

Admire the stunning frescoes and architecture of this iconic cathedral.
Walking distance to the cathedral.
EUR6, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Ivo

Savor local delicacies served in a charming trattoria setting.
Near the Cathedral.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Palazzo della Pilotta

Discover art collections in this vast palace complex, home to the Teatro Farnese.
Walking distance from lunch.
EUR10, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Farewell Dinner at Ristorante Parizzi

Enjoy your last dinner in Italy with gourmet Italian cuisine, rounding off your trip deliciously.
A short distance from the palace.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 12: Farewell Milan

Milan, Italy

9:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Italy with a view of the city skyline.
At your hotel.
Included in hotel rate, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Drive back to Milan

Take a leisurely drive back to Milan one last time to wrap up your trip.
Drive back via A1.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Explore the beautiful courtyard and museums of this iconic castle before your departure.
Walk or take a tram to the castle from your hotel.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at La Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo

Enjoy one final meal of authentic Neapolitan pizza that is a must-try before leaving Milan.
Walking distance from the castle.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Last-minute shopping in Milan

Take some time to shop and pick up last-minute souvenirs from high-end fashion stores.
Explore the shops around Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Free (shopping at your discretion), 2 hours

6:30 PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Italy as your unforgettable journey comes to an end.
Head to the airport or train station.
Cost varies on transport mode., Depending on transport
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