2 Week North Italy Itinerary
From Canada we flew into Paris, which is typically a cheaper flight than flying into Rome. That being said if you can get to Rome directly, we recommend you start there. In Rome, we took the train from the airport into the city (about an hour) and with an early flight this meant a quick nap before exploring the city.
For those who have not travelled to Europe before, I recommend using the Trainline app to purchase your tickets which can help you avoid any line ups.
Day 1: Rome
Since you might need some time to adjust, we recommend using the first day to get lost in the streets. We ended up stumbling across most of the major attractions including
Day 2: Rome
Morning:
Start your day early with a visit to the Colosseum. Arriving early helps beat the crowds.
Explore the Roman Forum adjacent to the Colosseum, where you can see ancient ruins and temples.
Afternoon:
Head to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, offering panoramic views of the city.
Visit the nearby Capitoline Hill and explore the Capitoline Museums, housing a vast collection of ancient Roman artifacts.
Evening:
Wander through the charming streets of Trastevere, known for its lively atmosphere and authentic Roman trattorias. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Vatican City and Baroque Rome
Morning:
Visit the Vatican Museums early to avoid long lines and crowds. Explore the vast collection of art and sculptures, including the famous Sistine Chapel.
Stroll through St. Peter's Square and admire St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world.
Afternoon:
Have lunch in the vicinity of the Vatican City.
Explore the Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering cylindrical building originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian.
Evening:
Spend the evening exploring the Baroque landmarks of Rome. Visit the Spanish Steps and the nearby Trevi Fountain, throwing a coin to ensure your return to Rome.
Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the historic center.
Day 3: Cinque Terre
We did a day trip to Cinque Terre.
Day 4: Venice
Day 4: Travel to Venice, explore St. Mark's Square, visit St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Take a gondola ride along the canals.
Day 5: Spend a day wandering through the charming streets of Venice, visit the Rialto Bridge, and explore the neighborhoods of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro.
Day 6: Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano to see glassblowing and colorful houses, respectively.
Day 7-9: Verona and Lake Garda
Day 7: Travel to Verona, visit Juliet's House and balcony, explore the Roman Arena, and stroll along the Adige River.
Day 8: Spend the day relaxing at Lake Garda, enjoy water activities like swimming, sailing, or simply relax by the lakeside. Visit Sirmione and its Scaliger Castle.
Day 9: Explore the picturesque town of Malcesine, take the cable car up Monte Baldo for stunning views, and wander through the town's medieval streets.
Day 10-12: Florence
Day 10: Travel to Florence, visit the iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Uffizi Gallery.
Day 11: Explore the historic center of Florence, visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's David, and wander through the charming streets of Oltrarno.
Day 12: Take a day trip to the Tuscan countryside, visit the towns of Siena and San Gimignano, known for their medieval architecture and stunning landscapes.
Day 12-14: Milan
Day 1: Arrival in Milan, explore the city center, visit the iconic Duomo di Milano, and stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Day 2: Spend the day at Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, "The Last Supper," in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Explore the fashion district and shop in Quadrilatero della Moda.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Lake Como, enjoy the scenic beauty, visit Villa del Balbianello or Villa Carlotta, and take a boat tour on the lake.
