10 Days in Northern Italy: The Perfect Itinerary for Coastlines, Lakes, and Alpine Adventures

Our journey kicked off in Milan, where we landed bright and early. After a smooth trip through customs, we caught a train from Malpensa Airport to Milano Centrale, grabbed some espresso to shake off the jet lag, and hopped on our second train heading straight to the coast.

By mid-afternoon, we rolled into Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost of the Cinque Terre villages. From there, it was a quick 10-minute train ride to Manarola, which we chose as our home base for the next few days — and let us tell you, we loved this town.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cinque Terre, let us save you some time: Manarola is it. This colorful cliffside village strikes the perfect balance; it’s peaceful without being sleepy, scenic without the crowds of Vernazza, and central enough to easily hop between all five towns. You’ll wake up to panoramic sea views, be steps away from iconic cliff-jumping spots, and enjoy some of the best sunset dinners in all of Liguria. Plus, the vibe here is just… right. Friendly locals, charming alleys, and fewer tour groups mean you get to experience Cinque Terre at a slower, more magical pace. Trust us, base yourself in Manarola, and you’ll never want to leave.

We woke up the next morning to ocean views and salty air does it get better than that? After a lazy morning, we took a short train ride to Monterosso, the only village with a proper sandy beach.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest, and sunniest, of the five Cinque Terre villages. It’s where colorful umbrellas line the shore, gelato shops stay open late, and lazy afternoons are best spent with your feet in the sand and a focaccia in hand. While it may be a bit more developed than its neighbors, Monterosso still oozes charm with its pastel buildings, cliffside views, and relaxed seaside vibe. Whether you’re sunbathing, shopping for local ceramics, or wandering its old town alleyways, Monterosso is the perfect spot to slow down and soak up la dolce vita.

We grabbed breakfast at Bar Gelateria, a low-key local spot with great cappuccinos and pastries, and spent the rest of the morning relaxing on the beach, soaking up the Ligurian sunshine. We wanted a refreshing drink while sunbathing, so we stopped by Stella Marina Beach Bar for an Aperol Spritz Bucket (yes bucket), which was more than enough for the two of us!

That afternoon, we trained over to Vernazza — maybe the most iconic of the five villages — and spent a couple of hours exploring the harbor, trying some local espresso, and taking in the views from the lookout tower.

Vernazza is the kind of place that feels straight out of a storybook — and in a way, it is. With its tiny harbor, pastel houses stacked against the cliffs, and boats bobbing in turquoise water, it’s no wonder this iconic village helped inspire Pixar’s Luca. Vernazza has a timeless charm, where kids dive off rocks, fishermen mend their nets, and sunsets turn the whole town gold. Climb to the lookout tower for sweeping views, grab gelato by the sea, or dine cliffside, every corner here feels like a movie scene come to life.

On our final day in Cinque Terre, we woke up early, eager to squeeze in a bit of adventure before we had to say goodbye to this magical corner of the world. After a quick stop at Da Aristide for our daily ritual of strong coffee and warm pastries, we were ready to hit the trail. The day promised something special: a scenic hike from Manarola to Corniglia, one of the most picturesque routes in the region. The trail winds its way through lush vineyards, past centuries-old olive groves, and along cliffs that offer some of the most jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Ligurian coastline. Every twist and turn revealed another breathtaking vista, making it easy to see why this hike is so popular. If you’re planning to do it, though, be sure to bring water and your camera because the views are so stunning that you’ll find yourself stopping every few minutes just to soak it all in.

As we made our way through the trail, we passed through the serene hilltop village of Volastra, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the more tourist-heavy villages below. This tiny town, felt like a moment of calm in the middle of the adventure. It was a peaceful escape, almost like stepping back in time. We paused there to refill our water bottles at a public fountain and took a moment to catch our breath. Volastra, with its charming stone houses and narrow streets, is the kind of place you’d miss if you weren’t on foot. It’s a hidden gem that, for us, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of hiking through Cinque Terre—discovering quiet, unspoiled places that feel miles away from the crowds below.

That afternoon, we had one of the trip’s absolute highlights: a pesto-making class at the iconic Nessun Dorma in Manarola. What we expected to be a simple cooking lesson turned into something much more; an unforgettable experience that felt more like a lively dinner party than a class. The atmosphere was warm and buzzing, with stunning views of the colorful cliffside village and the sea below adding to the magic.

To top it all off, the owner himself was there, greeting everyone with genuine warmth. He shared the story of how he started Nessun Dorma, how he left a corporate job in the city to chase a dream of living by the sea and creating a place where food, beauty, and community could come together. Hearing his journey made the experience even more special and gave the place a soul that you could truly feel.

We learned how to make authentic Ligurian pesto from scratch; crushing fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmigiano with a mortar and pestle while sipping local wine. By the end, everyone was laughing, tasting each other’s creations, and taking way too many photos of the view. We even made a couple of new friends in the class, and on a spontaneous whim, ended up cliff jumping with them just below the restaurant after it was over. It was one of those rare travel moments where everything just clicks; great food, great people, and a story we’ll be telling for years.

After bidding farewell to our home of 3 days, we jumped on the train and got to Milan around 11:00 AM. From there we hit the ground running, straight to our next train for a quick 40-minute Milan to Lake Como train. From there, we hopped on a ferry bound for Bellagio. Book your Como-to-Bellagio ferry in advance! We didn’t… but honestly, zero regrets. We grabbed a bottle of wine, found a park bench with a dreamy lake view, and started our Lake Como vacation in the most Italian way possible. The ferry ride itself took about an hour, stopping at several charming towns along the way. It’s not just transportation—it’s a full-on scenic experience and your first real introduction to the magic of Lake Como.

After a quick freshen-up, we headed out for an early dinner. Luckily, our Airbnb had umbrellas ready for the famously unpredictable lake weather, which turned out to be an absolute blessing on our rainy stroll. Just steps away, we stumbled into Babayaga, a cozy little spot where we scored a table on the covered patio. No reservation needed, just perfect pizza and the soothing soundtrack of rain on canvas. We’re not being dramatic when we say it was the best pizza of the entire trip; crispy, cheesy, and absolutely unforgettable. If you’re in Bellagio, this place is a must.

We started our second day in Bellagio with breakfast at Hotel du Lac, enjoying espresso and pastries while watching the lake come to life. After breakfast, we decided to take a short walk to La Punta Spartivento, a renowned lookout point just a few minutes away from the hotel. As we made our way there, the charming cobblestone streets of Bellagio gradually gave way to a quieter, more natural path that led us out to the edge of the lake. The views from the lookout were nothing short of breathtaking. From this spot, you can see where all three branches of Lake Como meet in the shape of a Y, a perfect vantage point that reveals the vast expanse of the lake stretching out in every direction.

What made the moment even more special was that we had the entire lookout to ourselves. We had arrived early, around 9:30 in the morning, before the crowds began to pour in. It was a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Bellagio, and we were able to take our time, snapping photos and simply enjoying the moment without the usual hustle and bustle of tourists.

Our favorite part of the trip, without a doubt, was the Como Branch. It’s packed with charming towns and iconic sights—we cruised past Villa Balbianello (a filming location for Star Wars), spotted George Clooney’s famous lakeside home, and even jumped off the bridge in Nesso.

Chartering a boat on Lake Como can cost a small fortune—some one-hour charters are priced the same as what we paid for our Lake Como boat rental for four hours. And unless you’re ready to splurge, most budget-friendly charters mean sharing the boat with a bunch of strangers. Renting and driving the boat yourself? Way more cost-effective, completely private, and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

After returning the boat around 4:00 PM, we grabbed a pistachio gelato and returned to our Airbnb to rest and clean up before dinner. That night, we dined at Ristorante Bilacus, a romantic restaurant tucked into one of Bellagio’s stepped streets. Bonus points to this spot because it was directly across the street from our Airbnb, which was welcomed after a tiring day in the sun. The terrace is covered in flowers, the wine list is strong, and the pasta? Chef’s kiss. Just be sure to make a reservation—they do charge a no-show fee.

To end the evening, we wandered next door to Aperitivo et Al Wine Bar, a cozy wine bar that was perfect for sipping limoncello and soaking in the atmosphere. The place was buzzing with locals celebrating birthdays and catching up with friends after work, which made it all the more charming and authentic.

We woke up early, determined to complete the “Golden Triangle” — Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio — all in one day. First stop: a quick ferry ride to Varenna, one of the most enchanting villages on the lake. We had seen it from the water the day before, but stepping into the town felt like walking into a watercolor painting. Varenna was quieter and more romantic than Bellagio, and honestly, we’d probably stay here next time we visit Lake Como with family or friends for a more laid-back vibe.

We grabbed breakfast at Bar Il Molo, a charming café with panoramic lake views. Between sipping espresso, people-watching, and watching tiny birds nibble on leftover crumbs, we felt like we were in a storybook. After breakfast, we wandered over to Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi, two gorgeous lakefront villas with lush botanical gardens. You can purchase a combo ticket for both, but if you’re on a budget (or just not in a museum mood), the views from outside are still pretty magical. And don’t skip the adorable cobbled streets of Varenna—they’re half the charm.

By mid-afternoon, we were back in Bellagio, ready for a refresh before our final evening. We decided to take a sunset walk far from the crowds, venturing well beyond the bustling city center.

And okay—we’ll admit it: after nearly a week of nonstop pasta and pizza, we were craving something a little different. So, for dinner, we went rogue and decided on burgers at Pub il Tiglio. It was a bold choice, but let us tell you: it was phenomenal. Hands down, the best burger we’ve had, and yes, even by American standards. The flavors were spot on—juicy, perfectly cooked patties with fresh toppings and a bun that held everything together without getting soggy. It was the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you don’t eat burgers more often on vacation.

This cozy little pub is tucked away from the main tourist spots, and as a result, we were the only non-locals in sight. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with friendly locals chatting and laughing around us. We felt like we had stumbled onto a hidden gem, and it turned out to be the perfect, low-key, heartwarming way to wrap up our three unforgettable days on Lake Como.

We kicked off this leg of the trip in Milan around 10:00 AM and grabbed our rental car by 11:00, and we were Dolomites bound! With no direct train up to the mountains, renting a car is definitely the most cost-effective (and flexible) way to go. The drive to Cortina d’Ampezzo took about 4.5 hours, winding through the stunning, ever-changing landscapes of northern Italy. Our biggest challenge was figuring out the toll booths. They pop up often, and while they seem intimidating at first, once you get the hang of them, they’re a breeze.

We started our morning bright and early with breakfast at the hotel at 7:30 AM before heading out on one of the most beautiful hikes of our trip: the trail to Lago di Sorapis. The trailhead is (very conveniently) located right by the hotel, and the hike takes you through some seriously stunning terrain.

If you’re thinking about hiking to Lago di Sorapis, here’s what to expect—it’s an out-and-back trail that starts right off SR48 and clocks in at about 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles) total. The hike is considered moderate, with a total ascent of 460 meters (around 1,520 feet), starting at an elevation of 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) and climbing to about 1,920 meters (6,300 feet) at the lake itself. Most people complete it in 3 to 5 hours, depending on pace and how long you stop to take in the scenery (and trust us, you’ll want to stop—it’s stunning).

After the hike, we were starving, so we made our way to Pizzeria Edelweiss, perched above peaceful Lago di Misurina. Between the crispy pizza crusts, ice-cold beers, and scenic views, it was the perfect post-hike reward.

Next up: Lago di Braies. This iconic lake has a completely different vibe than Sorapis. It’s less electric blue, and more storybook green, but no less magical. As we walked around its emerald shores, we stumbled upon a tiny alpine chapel where a choir was singing. It felt like we had wandered into The Sound of Music. Just when we thought it couldn’t get more idyllic, we spotted a mama duck and her fuzzy ducklings waddling along the shore. Yes, we melted.

By late afternoon, we made our way back to Cortina, taking some time to wander through the town’s charming streets and little shops. For dinner, we switched things up with Janbo, a modern mountain bistro that leans a bit more inventive with its alpine fare. But we couldn’t resist one last stop at Hacker Pschorr Haus for a cozy post-dinner beer. Yes… again. When you find a spot that hits just right, why mess with it?

One of the most unique and charming aspects of hiking in the Dolomites is the network of rifugi (mountain huts) scattered throughout the region. These cozy alpine lodges are more than just shelters—they’re a full-on cultural experience. Many serve homemade meals, piping hot soups, fresh pastries, and local wine or beer, all with jaw-dropping mountain views. Some rifugi are accessible by car or cable car, while others can only be reached by foot, making them a well-earned reward mid-hike. What’s even better? You can often sleep in them! Many hikers plan multi-day treks, hopping from one rifugio to the next, enjoying hearty meals and warm beds without needing to carry camping gear. Whether you’re just stopping in for a coffee or spending the night, visiting a rifugio is a must-do for a true Dolomites experience.

On the hike back, we made good on our promise to return to Rifugio Averau for more hearty soup and cold beer, the perfect combo after a challenging climb. Once back at the trailhead, we cruised straight to the hotel for a much-needed afternoon nap.

We wrapped up the day with an early dinner, and yes… we went back to Pizzeria Edelweiss. No regrets. When the pizza’s that good, you absolutely do it twice.

Pro Tip: If twisty mountain roads tend to turn your stomach, be prepared! Motion sickness meds can be a lifesaver—or just grab a Coca-Cola like I did to settle things after the drive.

We enjoyed one final breakfast at our hotel before saying goodbye to the Dolomites and beginning the journey back toward Milan. But we weren’t done exploring just yet! Around 11:30 AM, we arrived in Sirmione, a postcard-perfect town perched on a narrow peninsula jutting into the southern end of Lake Garda—Italy’s largest lake. Known for its thermal springs, Roman ruins, and fairytale-like Scaliger Castle, Sirmione makes for the ideal halfway pit stop to break up the drive.

Heads up: Parking in Sirmione is chaotic, to say the least. It took us nearly 45 minutes to find a spot. If we were to do it again, we’d either book a hotel in town with dedicated parking or plan to arrive first thing in the morning before the crowds roll in. Save yourself the stress and plan ahead!