5-Day Scenic and Cultural Road Trip in Northern Italy

Day 1: Explore Milan

Milan, Italy on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Enjoy a classic Italian breakfast of fresh espresso and cornetto at this popular local bakery, known for its traditional pastries and friendly atmosphere. Opens at 7:00am.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Duomo di Milano

Visit the iconic Milan Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece. Climb to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city. Open 9:00am - 7:00pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

11:30am

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Explore this elegant 19th-century shopping arcade filled with boutiques and cafés, perfect for a leisurely stroll and some window shopping.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Luini

Taste the famous panzerotti at Luini, a Milanese institution offering delicious stuffed pastries that are great for a quick and tasty lunch. Open daily 10:00am - 7:00pm.
EUR8, 0h45m

2:00pm

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Tour this Renaissance castle housing several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo. Open 9:00am - 5:30pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Sempione Park

Unwind with a stroll or rest in the lush green Sempione Park located behind the castle, a perfect spot to enjoy some quiet time.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ratanà

Dine at Ratanà, a restaurant specializing in modern Milanese cuisine made with local ingredients, located in the vibrant Isola district. Open 7:00pm - 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lake Como day

Lake Como, Italy on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Nearby Café

Start early with a light Italian breakfast near your accommodation, enjoying coffee and pastries for energy before travel.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Travel to Lake Como

Depart Milan by train or car to Como town on Lake Como, a journey of about 1 hour, known for breathtaking lake vistas and charming towns.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Villa del Balbianello

Visit this elegant villa famous for its beautiful terraced gardens overlooking the lake, a must-see historic site often featured in films. Open 10:00am - 6:00pm.
EUR20, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Costa

Enjoy traditional Lombardy cuisine with lake views at this family-run trattoria in Tremezzo, well-reviewed for its fresh fish dishes.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Boat Tour of Lake Como

Take a scenic boat cruise from Tremezzo to Bellagio, soaking in spectacular lake and mountain scenery. Cruises run every hour and last about 1 hour.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:15pm

Explore Bellagio

Wander through the quaint streets of Bellagio, visit gardens like Villa Melzi, and browse artisanal shops.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Como for dinner

Head back to Como town and dine at Osteria del Gallo, known for authentic Italian recipes in a cozy setting. Open until 10:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Bergamo medieval

Bergamo, Italy on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Cavour

Enjoy hearty breakfast pastries and espresso in Bergamo’s historic center, a great way to start the day. Opens at 7:00am.
EUR6, 0h30m

9:00am

Città Alta (Upper Town) Walk

Explore Bergamo’s medieval hilltop city, including Piazza Vecchia, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, and the Rocca fortress with panoramic views. Most sites open by 9:00am.
EUR10, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Da Mimmo

Enjoy refined local cuisine at Da Mimmo, a favorite spot near Città Alta offering traditional dishes with a modern twist. Open 12:00pm - 2:30pm.
EUR28, 1h0m

2:00pm

Accademia Carrara

Visit this renowned art gallery housing Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli and Bellini. Open 10:00am - 6:00pm.
EUR12, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Parco della Rocca

Take a leisurely walk and enjoy views from this park on the fortress hill, ideal for an afternoon break.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Il Circolino

Dine at a neighborhood plein-air restaurant serving authentic Italian comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Verona Romance

Verona, Italy on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Flego

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at this local favorite in Verona’s historic center. Opens 7:30am.
EUR6, 0h30m

9:00am

Arena di Verona

Tour the remarkable Roman amphitheater, still in use for operas and concerts. Open 8:30am - 7:30pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

10:30am

Casa di Giulietta

Visit Juliet’s House, famed for its romantic balcony and the story of Romeo and Juliet; a must-see for Shakespeare enthusiasts. Open 8:30am - 7:30pm.
EUR6, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Le Vecete

Enjoy traditional Veronese dishes in a cozy ambiance, renowned for its risotto and local wines.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Piazza delle Erbe and Torre dei Lamberti

Explore the lively market square and climb the Torre dei Lamberti for stunning views of Verona. Torre open 10:00am - 6:00pm.
EUR8, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk along Adige River

Enjoy a relaxing riverside walk to see Verona’s bridges and riverside architecture in the late afternoon light.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria al Pompiere

Savor classic Veronese cuisine at this well-loved trattoria famous for its hearty meat dishes and local atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Venice highlights

Venice, Italy on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Start with coffee and pastries at this iconic Venetian café known for its delicious sweet treats and early opening hours.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:30am

St. Mark’s Basilica

Explore the Byzantine beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica, famous for its intricate mosaics. Basilica opens at 9:30am, but early arrival recommended for lines.
Free, 1h30m

10:30am

Doge’s Palace

Tour the former seat of Venetian power with its grand halls and prison cells. Open 9:00am - 7:00pm.
EUR25, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Enjoy fresh Venetian seafood in this beloved small osteria, known for its quality and atmosphere. Reservation recommended.
EUR40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Gondola Ride

Experience Venice from the water with a classic gondola ride through its charming canals. Typical rides last about 30-40 minutes.
EUR80, 0h40m

3:00pm

Explore Rialto Market and Bridge

Visit the bustling Rialto Market for fresh produce and seafood, then stroll on the iconic Rialto Bridge for great photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at a café on Campo Santa Margherita

Unwind with an aperitivo at a lively square popular with locals and students, a perfect end to your Venice exploration.
EUR12, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Savor authentic Venetian dishes off the beaten path in this intimate and highly praised restaurant. Open 7:00pm - 11:00pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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