12 Days Exploring Northern Italy: From Dolomites to Riva del Garda

Day 1: Explore Milan

Milan, Italy on March 6, 2025

9:00 AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Marvel at the stunning cathedral, an iconic symbol of Milan. Don't forget to go to the rooftop for incredible views of the city.
EUR20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Walk through this historic shopping gallery, often called the 'living room of Milan', with its breathtaking architecture and luxury shops.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Savor a traditional Italian panzerotto, a delicious pastry filled with cheese and tomato, a must-try local favorite.
EUR8, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit The Last Supper

See Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpiece in Santa Maria delle Grazie, an essential art piece in world history.
EUR15, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shopping in Brera District

Stroll through the charming streets and boutique shops of this vibrant district, ideal for unique finds.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Indulge in classic Milanese risotto and ossobuco at this cozy local restaurant known for its traditional Italian cuisine.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Scenic Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy on March 7, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Lake Como

Take a scenic train ride from Milan to Como town, soaking in the beautiful landscapes along the way.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Boat Tour on Lake Como

Enjoy a relaxing boat tour that showcases the breathtaking villas and charming towns along the lake's shores.
EUR25, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Riva Granda

Dine with stunning lake views while enjoying fresh lake fish at this highly-rated lakeside restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Bellagio

Explore this picturesque village known as the 'Pearl of Lake Como', filled with beautiful gardens and cobbled streets.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Villa Melzi

Stroll through the stunning gardens of Villa Melzi, showcasing beautiful flora and impressive views of the lake.
EUR10, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Trattoria San Giacomo

Enjoy delicious local pasta dishes and wine in this authentic Italian eatery in Bellagio.
EUR28, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Historic Bergamo

Bergamo, Italy on March 8, 2025

8:30 AM

Travel to Bergamo

A short train ride from Lake Como, enjoy the scenic views approaching this beautiful town, divided into the upper and lower cities.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Città Alta

Wander around the medieval heart of Bergamo with its cobbled streets, ancient walls, and stunning views.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Mimmo

Taste authentic Bergamasque cuisine with their famous casoncelli pasta at this local treasure.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Accademia Carrara

Immerse yourself in Renaissance art at this renowned art gallery with a vast collection of masterpieces.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Take the Funicular

Ride the funicular back down with stunning views over the surrounding valleys, a fun experience not to miss.
EUR2, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria Al Sorriso

Indulge in hearty local dishes in this homey venue, perfect for experiencing traditional Bergamo flavors.
EUR24, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Adventurous Dolomites

Val Gardena, Italy on March 9, 2025

7:30 AM

Travel to Val Gardena

A scenic drive to the Dolomite Mountains will reward you with breathtaking landscapes.
EUR40 (car rental), 2 hours

10:00 AM

Hiking in the Dolomites

Embark on a beautiful hiking trail such as the Seceda to Alpe di Siusi for stunning mountain views.
Free, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Ristorante L Ginger

Refuel with a wholesome meal at this restaurant featuring local Tyrolean flavors and seasonal ingredients.
EUR27, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Ortisei Village

Explore the charming village known for its wood carvings and local artisan shops.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Cavallino

Savor exquisite local dishes in this cozy hotel restaurant that overlooks the stunning mountains.
EUR32, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Dolomite Treasures

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy on March 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Cortina d'Ampezzo

Drive through the enchanting mountains to reach the glamorous resort town known as the 'Queen of the Dolomites'.
EUR30 (car rental), 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Explore Cortina Town

Stroll through the main street lined with luxury shops and beautiful architecture.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Lago di Braies

Enjoy breathtaking views while savoring fresh mountain cuisine, particularly their hearty speck platter.
EUR26, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lake Braies Visit

Visit the stunning emerald lake surrounded by imposing mountains, an Instagram-worthy spot!
Free, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Lago di Braies

Enjoy an elegant dining experience at this lakeside hotel with gourmet dishes crafted from local ingredients.
EUR35, 2 hours

Day 6: Alpine Delights

Alta Badia, Italy on March 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Alta Badia

A short drive brings you to the enchanting valley known for its rustic charm and stunning landscapes.
EUR15 (car rental), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Hit the slopes in this winter wonderland, suitable for all levels, and take in breathtaking alpine views.
EUR70 (rental and pass), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Marmotta

Refuel with delicious local pasta and hearty alpine dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit San Cassiano

Explore the delightful village of San Cassiano with its charming shops and breathtaking views.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Ristorante da Piero

Savor local specialties with a modern twist at a beloved family-run restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

Day 7: A Day in Brixen

Brixen, Italy on March 12, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Brixen

A short drive to Brixen, a charming town known for its medieval architecture and beautiful landscapes.
EUR20 (car rental), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Brixen Cathedral

Explore the stunning Baroque cathedral and its beautiful frescoes, a perfect blend of art and history.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Take a Walk in the Old Town

Wander the cobbled streets of Brixen's Old Town, with its shops and charming architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Restaurant Brixenerhof

Try authentic Tyrolean dishes with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy setting.
EUR22, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Pharmacy Museum

Discover the fascinating history of pharmacy in this unique museum located in a historic building.
EUR5, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Neustift Abbey

Explore this stunning 12th-century abbey with beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Gasthof Gasser

Enjoy a traditional Tyrolean meal at this welcoming restaurant known for its regional specialties.
EUR26, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Discover Merano

Merano, Italy on March 13, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Merano

A beautiful drive to Merano, known for its thermal baths and charming city center.
EUR20 (car rental), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle

Explore the stunning botanical gardens offering a wide range of exotic plants and spectacular views.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Merano's City Center

Stroll along the promenade and discover local shops, cafes, and the charming architecture.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Restaurant An der Brücke

Savor fresh, local dishes inspired by Mediterranean and Tyrolean cuisine in a lovely atmosphere.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Merano Thermal Baths

Relax and unwind in the luxurious thermal baths, a true paradise for wellness seekers.
EUR35, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Vinea

Enjoy local wines along with delicious dishes emphasizing seasonal ingredients and flavors.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

Day 9: Adventures in Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda, Italy on March 14, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Riva del Garda

A scenic drive will take you to this beautiful lakeside town nestled at the northern end of Lake Garda.
EUR20 (car rental), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the Historic Center

Wander through Riva del Garda's charming streets, admiring the colorful buildings and quaint shops.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria L'Ora

Enjoy a delicious pizza or pasta dish in a laid-back ambiance with views of the lake.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit La Rocca

Explore this historic fortress that offers stunning views over the lake and a fascinating insight into the region's history.
EUR5, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Relax at Lake Garda

Unwind by the lakeside, where you can engage in water sports or simply soak in the sun.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Ristorante da Carlo

Savor fresh fish dishes and local specialties while enjoying beautiful lake views.
EUR32, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Explore Limone sul Garda

Limone sul Garda, Italy on March 15, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Limone sul Garda

A picturesque drive along the shores of Lake Garda brings you to this charming lemon-scented village.
EUR15 (car rental), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Lemon House

Discover the fascinating history of lemon cultivation on Lake Garda and stroll through the beautiful gardens.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore the Old Town

Wander the narrow streets lined with vibrant flowers and quaint shops, perfect for those Instagram shots.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Cantina

Enjoy homemade pasta alongside delicious local wines in a cozy Italian setting.
EUR24, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Relax by the Lake

Take a peaceful afternoon to relax by the lake, enjoying the beautiful scenery and perhaps a swim.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Silvio

Indulge in a mix of gourmet and traditional dishes in this family-run restaurant with stunning lake views.
EUR38, 2 hours

Day 11: Charming Malcesine

Malcesine, Italy on March 16, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Malcesine

Drive along the lakeside to reach Malcesine, known for its breathtaking views and charming old town.
EUR15 (car rental), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Castello Scaligero

Explore this medieval castle overlooking the lake and offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding area.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore the Town

Stroll through the narrow streets of Malcesine's old town, lined with shops and cafes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Gondoliere

Enjoy delicious seafood dishes and pasta dishes in a cozy atmosphere filled with locals.
EUR32, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Cable Car Ride to Monte Baldo

Take a scenic cable car ride for breathtaking views of Lake Garda from the mountaintop.
EUR20, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Monte Baldo

End your day with a delightful meal featuring traditional dishes and local wines in this restaurant at the mountaintop.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

Day 12: Cultural Richness in Verona

Verona, Italy on March 17, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Verona

A quick drive will take you to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, known for its rich history.
EUR15 (car rental), 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Arena di Verona

Explore this well-preserved Roman amphitheater, which hosts concerts and performances in summer.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Juliet's House

See the famous balcony from Shakespeare's play and explore the museum dedicated to this famous love story.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Desco

Enjoy traditional Veronese dishes in a cozy setting, perfect for immersing yourself in local flavors.
EUR28, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Piazza delle Erbe

Stroll through this lively square, filled with market stalls, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Castelvecchio

Explore this stunning medieval castle and the museum that houses a rich collection of art and artifacts.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Osteria da Ugo

Complete your Italian journey with delicious homemade pasta dishes and local wines in this local favorite.
EUR30, 2 hours