Northern Italy: Places to Visit, Car Rental Tips, and General Advices.
A 7-Day Travel Guide to Northern Italy: Places to Visit, Car Rental Tips, and General Advice
Northern Italy combines cosmopolitan flair, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural riches that make it a must-visit for travelers. From the fashion-forward streets of Milan to the serene shores of Lake Como, the maze-like canals of Venice, and the towering peaks of the Dolomites, this region offers diverse experiences for every traveler. This 7-day guide is crafted to help you explore the best Northern Italy has to offer, with advice on places to visit, car rental, essential driving tips, and useful travel advice.
Day 1-2: Milan – The Fashion and Culture Capital
Introduction to Milan
As Italy’s second-largest city, Milan is a bustling hub of fashion, art, and history. With landmarks like the iconic Duomo, world-famous shopping districts, and Renaissance art treasures, Milan offers a dynamic blend of the modern and the historic.
Must-See Places:
- Duomo di Milano: A magnificent Gothic cathedral with a rooftop that offers sweeping city views.
- Sforza Castle: This 15th-century fortress houses museums and art collections, including Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà Rondanini.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Italy’s oldest shopping mall, known for luxury boutiques, cafes, and its stunning glass roof.
- Santa Maria delle Grazie: Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, this site requires advance booking to witness the Renaissance masterpiece.
Top Activities:
- Shopping and Fashion: Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. For high-end shopping, visit the Quadrilatero della Moda, the luxury shopping district.
- Art and History: Explore the Brera Art Gallery, which houses a significant collection of Italian Renaissance art.
Dining Recommendations:
- Local Foods: Try risotto alla Milanese, a saffron-infused risotto, and ossobuco, a veal shank slow-cooked with wine and broth.
- Suggested Restaurant: Ratanà in Porta Nuova offers a contemporary twist on traditional Milanese dishes in a chic, modern setting.
Transportation Tips for Milan:
Using public transportation, including the metro, trams, and buses, is convenient in Milan, especially to avoid traffic and parking issues. For those planning to drive, note that central Milan has a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), where car access is restricted without a permit.
Day 3: Lake Como – Serenity and Scenic Beauty
Introduction to Lake Como
A mere 1-hour drive from Milan, Lake Como is a tranquil escape with clear waters, charming towns, and lush mountainsides. Known as a playground for the wealthy, the lake and its surroundings offer an abundance of leisure activities and breathtaking views.
Must-See Places:
- Bellagio: Often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio boasts cobbled streets, gardens, and luxury shops.
- Villa del Balbianello: This stunning villa, set on a promontory, is famous for its gardens and views. It has served as a backdrop for films like Star Wars and Casino Royale.
- Varenna: A quieter village with quaint alleyways and a peaceful lakeside promenade.
Top Activities:
- Boat Tours: Explore various lake towns by ferry or rent a private boat.
- Hiking: Take the Sentiero del Viandante, a scenic trail offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
Dining Recommendations:
- Local Foods: Try polenta, a staple of northern Italian cuisine, often served with fish or meat.
- Suggested Restaurant: La Punta in Bellagio, a restaurant with scenic views of the lake and a delicious selection of regional dishes.
Travel Tips:
- Getting There: You can reach Lake Como by train from Milan, but having a car offers flexibility to explore the smaller lakeside towns.
- Caution: Roads around Lake Como are narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
Day 4-5: Venice – The City of Canals
Introduction to Venice
Venice is one of Italy’s most unique cities, with its winding canals, historical architecture, and artistic heritage. From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to the quaint neighborhoods, Venice is an enchanting destination that feels like stepping back in time.
Must-See Places:
- St. Mark’s Basilica: This Byzantine-style basilica is famous for its golden mosaics and opulent design.
- Doge’s Palace: A Gothic masterpiece and the former residence of Venice’s rulers, housing art and historical artifacts.
- Rialto Bridge: Venice’s oldest bridge with a view over the Grand Canal, lined with market stalls and shops.
Top Activities:
- Gondola Ride: While touristy, it’s an iconic Venetian experience worth trying at least once.
- Island Hopping: Visit Murano, famous for glassmaking, and Burano, known for its brightly painted houses and lace craftsmanship.
Dining Recommendations:
- Local Foods: Sample cicchetti, Venetian tapas-style dishes, and bigoli in salsa, a pasta dish with anchovy sauce.
- Suggested Restaurant: Osteria Alle Testiere is a small, beloved seafood spot near St. Mark’s Square.
Transportation Tips for Venice:
Venice is pedestrian-only, and getting around is by foot or by water. Use vaporettos (water buses) or water taxis to explore different parts of the city and nearby islands.
Day 6-7: The Dolomites – Alpine Adventure
Introduction to the Dolomites
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Dolomites are a mountain range in Northern Italy known for their jagged peaks, lush valleys, and alpine lakes. This region offers a range of outdoor activities and some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe.
Must-See Places:
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo: These three peaks are among the most iconic sights in the Dolomites, with scenic hiking trails.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo: Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” this town is popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
- Lago di Braies: A serene lake with emerald-green waters, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Top Activities:
- Hiking: The Dolomites have trails for all levels, from easy lake walks to challenging mountain paths.
- Winter Sports: Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular in the winter months.
- Photography: The Dolomites are a photographer’s paradise, with sweeping views, colorful meadows, and picturesque lakes.
Dining Recommendations:
- Local Foods: Try canederli (bread dumplings) and speck (cured ham).
- Suggested Restaurant: El Brite de Larieto in Cortina offers traditional mountain dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.
Driving Tips for the Dolomites:
- Road Conditions: Roads in the Dolomites can be narrow and winding. Be prepared for steep climbs and sharp turns.
- Parking: Parking is available at most trailheads, but spaces fill quickly in peak season.
Important Driving Tips for Northern Italy
Car Rental Advice:
Renting a car in Northern Italy provides the flexibility to explore areas like the Dolomites and smaller towns around Lake Como. Major cities like Milan and Venice, however, are best navigated on foot or by public transport to avoid restricted driving zones and limited parking.
Driving Tips:
- Watch for ZTL Zones: Italian cities have restricted traffic zones (ZTL) where only authorized vehicles can enter. Fines are steep for unauthorized entry.
- Tolls: Italian highways (autostrade) have tolls, which can be paid by cash or card. Consider using a toll pass for convenience.
- Parking: Many Italian cities have limited parking. Look for “P” signs indicating parking areas, often with hourly fees.
- Navigation: A GPS device or smartphone app is highly recommended, especially in the mountainous Dolomites, where signs can be less frequent.
Budget Guide for Foreign Travelers
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Transportation | €60-€150 per day (includes car rental and gas) |
| Accommodation | €70-€250 per night (varies by city and type) |
| Food | €35-€80 per day (for meals and snacks) |
| Sightseeing Fees | €20-€50 per site (e.g., museums, villas, churches) |
| Total Daily Budget | €200-€530 |
Total for 7 Days: €1,400 – €3,710
Note: Costs may vary depending on travel season, personal preferences, and dining options.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Use public transportation in Milan and Venice.
- Opt for regional cuisine instead of high-end dining in tourist areas.
- Book accommodation and sightseeing tickets in advance for discounts.
General Travel Tips and Cautions
- Language: While many Italians speak basic English, learning a few Italian phrases (like “grazie” for thank you or “buongiorno” for good morning) can be helpful and appreciated.
- Cultural Etiquette: Italians value politeness and often dress smartly. Avoid loud conversations in public, and be mindful of dress codes when visiting churches.
- Safety: Northern Italy is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, particularly in Milan and Venice.
- Weather: The Dolomites can be cool even in summer. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, especially for mountain excursions.
Conclusion
A 7-day trip to Northern Italy offers a taste of the region’s many charms, from Milan’s city life to Venice’s romantic canals, Lake Como’s serene shores, and the Dolomites’ alpine adventures. By following this guide and planning ahead, you’re set for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most captivating regions.