Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Milan, Lake Garda, Venice, San Marino & Florence Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Milan Sights

Milan, Italy on June 5, 2025

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Luini

Try the famous Panzerotti at Luini near the Duomo for a quick and delicious Milanese lunch.
EUR8, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)

Explore Milan’s iconic gothic cathedral with stunning rooftop views; open daily 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

3:45pm

Stroll Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Walk through the elegant 19th-century shopping gallery, full of luxury shops and cafés, perfect for a coffee break.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Nabucco

Enjoy traditional Milanese cuisine like risotto alla Milanese in the charming Brera district. Open until 11:00pm.
EUR40, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Milan Museums & Parks

Milan, Italy on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pavé

Start your day with excellent pastries and coffee at Pavé, open from 7:00am.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

See one of Milan’s most important art collections including works by Caravaggio and Raphael; open 8:30am-7:15pm, closed Mondays.
EUR15, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Eataly Smeraldo

Enjoy a variety of Italian dishes and fresh produce from the famous Eataly food hall; open 10:00am-11:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Sempione Park & Arch of Peace

Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike through Sempione Park and visit the iconic Arch of Peace; open all day.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Aperitivo in Navigli District

Experience Milan’s famous aperitivo culture by enjoying drinks and complimentary snacks along the picturesque canals.
EUR15, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Osteria del Binari

Savor traditional Milanese dishes in a cozy atmosphere; open until 11:00pm.
EUR35, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Drive to Lake Garda

Lake Garda, Italy on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Checkout in Milan

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel or nearby café before driving to Lake Garda.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive from Milan to Lake Garda

Drive approximately 2 hours east to reach Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake surrounded by charming towns.
EUR0 (fuel not included), 2h0m

11:30am

Check-in at Lake Garda accommodation

Settle into your hotel or rental near the lake, recommended towns include Sirmione or Malcesine.
Varies, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Fiasca in Sirmione

Enjoy traditional local dishes with lake views; open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Scaliger Castle

Explore the impressive medieval fortress in Sirmione, offering panoramic views of Lake Garda; open 8:30am-7:30pm.
EUR8, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Jamaica Beach, Sirmione

Take a swim or relax on one of Lake Garda’s beautiful pebble beaches.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante al Pescatore

Dine on fresh lake fish specialties, open evenings 7:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR40, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Lake Garda Exploration

Lake Garda, Italy on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Bar Centrale

Enjoy a typical Italian breakfast featuring espresso and pastries to start your day.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Boat Tour to Malcesine

Take a scenic ferry ride across Lake Garda to the lovely town of Malcesine; boats operate roughly 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Castello Scaligero in Malcesine

Explore this well-preserved 13th-century castle with spectacular lake views; open 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR6, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Al Gondoliere

Savor authentic Italian dishes in a restaurant along Malcesine’s lakeside harbor.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Cable Car Ride to Monte Baldo

Take the cable car from Malcesine up to Monte Baldo for hiking and breathtaking panoramic views; open 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR18, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to hotel and relax

Rest and enjoy your accommodation's amenities after a full day of sightseeing.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Speranzina Restaurant & Relais

Enjoy a gourmet meal with local ingredients and stunning lake views; reservation recommended.
EUR50, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Relaxation at Lake Garda

Lake Garda, Italy on June 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast served at your accommodation to prepare for a relaxing day.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Gardone Riviera & Heller Garden

Explore the peaceful town of Gardone Riviera and stroll through the botanical Heller Garden, open 8:30am-5:30pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Esplanade

Enjoy lakeside lunch with Italian and Mediterranean specialties, open noon-3:00pm.
EUR35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Spa and Wellness Center Visit

Relax at one of Lake Garda’s spas, such as Villa dei Cedri, offering thermal pools and massages.
EUR60, 3h0m

6:00pm

Evening Stroll and Gelato

Walk along the lakeshore promenade and enjoy gelato at a local gelateria.
EUR5, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria 4 Mori

Traditional Italian dining with friendly atmosphere and great local wines; open until 10:30pm.
EUR40, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Active Outdoor Day

Lake Garda, Italy on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Centrale

Grab espresso and fresh pastries before a day of outdoor adventure.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Kayaking or Stand-up Paddleboarding

Rent equipment to explore the lake from the water; many rental spots open 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR25, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch picnic at Parco Baia delle Sirene

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch in this beautiful lakeside park, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Bike ride along the lake

Rent bikes for a scenic ride along one of the lake’s cycling routes.
EUR20, 3h0m

5:00pm

Return and rest at accommodation

Relax after an active day with some leisure time at the hotel.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Antica Trattoria la Pieve

Traditional Italian meal known for homemade pasta and local ingredients.
EUR35, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Explore Nearby Villages

Lake Garda, Italy on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation to fuel your day of exploration.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Lazise

Drive or take a boat to the charming town of Lazise and explore its medieval walls, harbor, and local shops.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria da Gemma

Enjoy regional cuisine featuring fresh lake fish in a welcoming setting.
EUR30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Bardolino and Wine Tasting

Tour Bardolino’s historic center and enjoy a wine tasting session at a local vineyard open afternoons.
EUR20, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Lake Garda hotel

Relax and freshen up before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Cantina del Baffo

Savor local specialties and fine wines in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR40, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Leisure and Shopping

Lake Garda, Italy on June 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at local café

Light breakfast with local pastries and coffee at a nearby café.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:00am

Shopping and exploring in Sirmione

Visit artisan shops, boutiques, and the historic center of Sirmione.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Al Torcol

Popular spot for traditional Italian dishes with lake views, open noon-3:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Grotte di Catullo

Explore the ruins of a large Roman villa overlooking the lake; open 8:30am-7:30pm.
EUR8, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax by the lake

Spend your late afternoon enjoying the lakeside ambiance or a swim.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Vecchia Malcesine

Enjoy authentic Northern Italian cuisine with excellent reviews.
EUR40, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Final Day at Lake Garda

Lake Garda, Italy on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Hearty breakfast at your accommodation before departure preparation.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:00am

Leisure morning or visit local market

Depending on your preference, spend a relaxed morning or visit a local market for souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Antico Borgo

Local cuisine with a warm atmosphere in Sirmione, open at noon.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Prepare for departure to Venice

Check-out and prepare for the drive to Venice.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Drive from Lake Garda to Venice

Approximately 2-hour drive to Venice city center.
EUR0 (fuel not included), 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in and Evening in Venice

Check into your accommodation and enjoy a walking evening tour of St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge.
Free, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Alla Madonna

Classic Venetian seafood dishes in a lively historic setting, open until 11:00pm.
EUR45, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: One Day in Venice

Venice, Italy on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Enjoy excellent Venetian pastries and strong coffee; opens at 7:00am.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:00am

Tour Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs

Explore the fascinating history and art of Doge's Palace; open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR25, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit St. Mark's Basilica

Admire the stunning architecture and mosaics; open 9:30am-5:00pm.
Free (small fee for museum and terrace), 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Small, intimate restaurant known for fresh seafood, reservation highly recommended.
EUR50, 1h30m

2:30pm

Gondola Ride

Experience a classic gondola ride through Venice’s canals; about 30-45 minutes.
EUR80, 0h45m

3:30pm

Explore Rialto Market

Browse fresh produce and seafood in Venice’s vibrant market.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Campo Santa Margherita

Enjoy a drink or snack in this lively square popular with locals.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Delicious Venetian specialties in a cozy atmosphere; reservation recommended.
EUR55, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Drive to San Marino

San Marino, San Marino on June 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before setting out on your scenic drive to San Marino.
EUR10, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive Venice to San Marino

Approximately 3.5 hour drive through Emilia-Romagna region to reach the historic Republic of San Marino.
EUR0 (fuel not included), 3h30m

12:15pm

Check-in and Lunch at Ristorante La Fratta

Enjoy traditional Sammarinese cuisine in the historic center; open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore San Marino's three towers

Visit Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers offering incredible views and medieval history; open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR5, 2h30m

4:00pm

Walk the historic city center

Stroll through charming streets, Piazza della Libertà, and local shops and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Il Beccaccio

Fine dining offering modern Mediterranean dishes within San Marino town walls.
EUR40, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Drive to Florence

Florence, Italy on June 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and Checkout

Breakfast and prepare for the 2.5-hour drive to Florence.
EUR10, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive San Marino to Florence

Enjoy a scenic drive across Tuscany to Florence, Italy’s Renaissance capital.
EUR0 (fuel not included), 2h30m

11:00am

Check-in and Light Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Sample diverse Tuscan foods at the vibrant market food court open 10:00am-12:00am.
EUR20, 1h0m

12:30pm

Visit Florence Cathedral (Duomo) & Baptistery

Marvel at Brunelleschi’s dome and ornate interiors; open 10:00am-5:00pm.
EUR20, 2h0m

3:00pm

Explore Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio

Discover Florence’s historic political center with impressive statues and palace; Palazzo open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR16, 1h30m

5:00pm

Gelato at Gelateria dei Neri

Cool down with some of Florence's best gelato near the historic center.
EUR5, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria da Mario

Enjoy authentic Tuscan home-style cooking in a popular local spot.
EUR35, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Florence Museums & Shopping

Florence, Italy on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Rivoire

Classic café near Piazza della Signoria for pastries and coffee, opens at 7:30am.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Uffizi Gallery

World-renowned museum with masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo; open 8:15am-6:50pm.
EUR25, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at La Prosciutteria

Informal spot for Tuscan sandwiches and cured meats, open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Shopping on Via de’ Tornabuoni

Browse luxury boutiques and artisan shops along Florence’s famous fashion street.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Climb to Piazzale Michelangelo

Enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Florence, perfect for sunset.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Il Latini

Bustling, authentic Tuscan trattoria known for hearty portions; reservation recommended.
EUR45, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Return to Milan & Departure

Milan, Italy on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast in Florence before driving back to Milan.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive Florence to Milan

Drive approximately 3 hours back to Milan with time for traffic and stops.
EUR0 (fuel not included), 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch near Milan Central Station at Panino Giusto

Enjoy artisanal sandwiches in a great spot for a last Italian meal.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Sforza Castle

Explore this historic fortress housing museums and beautiful grounds; open 7:00am-7:30pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

4:30pm

Relax at Hotel or nearby café

Rest and pack for late night flight departure.
Free, 4h0m

8:30pm

Light Dinner at Obicà Mozzarella Bar

Enjoy fresh Italian cheeses and light dishes before heading to the airport; open until 11:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

10:00pm

Drive to Milan Malpensa Airport

Allow ample time for car return and airport check-in for midnight flight.
EUR0, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability