Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy

Within the expanse of Northern Italy, ensure that every moment is spent in a place as rewarding to your tastes as possible.

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Editorial Team

31 July 2024, 9:00

Exploring Northern Italy is akin to discovering a treasure trove. This guide delves into the serene mountains and lakes, historic cities, and charming coastal towns that make Northern Italy a must-visit destination. These are the best places to visit in Northern Italy.

The Mountains in Northern Italy

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Among Northern Italy's mountain ranges, we make the distinction between the Dolomites and the grand Alps, which offer iconic landscapes and a plethora of activities such as skiing, hiking, and climbing. Or those interested in capturing the essence of Northern Italy's mountainous regions through photography or painting, both the Dolomites and the Alps offer endless inspiration.

The Dolomites

Known for their jagged, pale-coloured rock formations, this UNESCO World Heritage site serves as an exceptional point from which to take in surrounding beauty. Towns like Trento are lucky to have it as a backyard. Each season brings its own charm, transforming the landscape into one for activities that range from lush green hills to snow-capped slopes.

History: The area is also steeped in history, having been a significant site with the victory of the Italians over the Austrians, there are World War I hikes (Sass di Stria (2,477m / 8127) that look at old tunnels the soldiers built between 1915 and 1917, for refuge against the harsh winds.
Walks - If you're looking to leisurely take in the breathtaking vistas or challenging climbs up rugged paths, the Dolomites offer something for everyone.
Steep skiing - The region is also famous for its ski resorts, which are among the best in Europe, providing thrilling 1.200km worth of downhill fun with state-of-the-art facilities. Check out these two main ski resorts: Alleghe and Canazei.

The Italian Alps

Further west, stretched across Northern Italy, is this region is less frequented but equally glamorous, with hidden valleys and quaint stone villages that encapsulate the traditional Alpine lifestyle. The homes here are the cheapest out of any of the ski resorts in Northern Italy, and it holds the northernmost town in the country, Predoi. Here, you can indulge in activities like paragliding, mountain biking, or simply enjoy the reclusive feeling that these towering peaks inspire.

Forestry: Hidden within the ranges, are the beautiful variety of maple, oak, chestnut and birch trees. Many cross through with the Domodossola train in the Autumn, just to see all the colours. There locals are avid foragers and you'll also find that many are bee farmers.
Nature hikes - There are over 800km worth of hikes in the nearby Valle del Ticino, a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Otherwise, a nearby province is Catania, with its wondrous Mount Etna for hiking volcano rocks or across vineyards.
Intermediate skiing - The region is made for milder skiing. It is why most live there to enjoy the changing of the seasons in the landscape and harvest. It is easily accessible to the French and Swiss Alps, so the skiing opportunities are quite endless. In the Alps, you can cover 4,987km worth of slopes. Check out these two main ski resorts: Cervinia and Piani di Bobbio.

Best places to live near mountains in Northern Italy

Nestled in the valleys of Northern Italy, you'll find Trento, Bolzano, and Aosta are among the best places to live. These charming towns offer stunning mountain views, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local communities. Trento boasts excellent educational institutions, Bolzano is renowned for its blend of Italian and Austrian influences, and Aosta is perfect for nature lovers with its proximity to ski resorts and hiking trails. Let's find out more.

Find out what the four main locations are in Dolomites
Find out our affordable ski properties for sale in the Italian Alps.

The Lakes of Northern Italy

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The lakes of Northern Italy are celebrated for their crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. They stand out as jewels of the region, offering a blend of luxury and charm in their towns.

Lake Como

Celebrities - Often noted for its dramatic scenery set against the foothills of the Alps, Como will attract worldwide visitors year-round, with its luxury villas and romantic vistas. Esteemed favourites such as George Clooney and Richard Branson own properties here, which speaks volumes about its allure. Star Wars II also filmed here.
Locals - We mustn't forget that for all the international picturesque appeal, Como is most popular for Italians who want to commute for work to Milan and are looking for a charming Old Town to come home to.
Quaint towns - The lake's shoreline is dotted with picturesque towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio; which offer quaint cobbled streets, vibrant floral displays, and an array of artisan shops. Close by is the first brewery in the Valsassina, a town known for its craft in ironwork, the scissors and cutlery district. La Mia Birra uses traditional Central European fermenting techniques.

Top 8 places to see on Lake Como

Lake Garda

Sports enthusiasts - The largest lake in Italy, is renowned not only for its stunning beauty but also for its diverse attractions. The lake is also beloved by Germans, who favour living in a haven for sailing, windsurfing, and hiking opportunities. Families can enjoy theme parks like Gardaland.
History enthusiasts - They might explore ancient ruins and castles such as Scaliger Castle in Sirmione. Verona is close by, with all its quiet ferocity.
Travel enthusiasts - One might drive along a ravine at the Strada della Forra, or take a boat in Desenzano and navigate from town to town, all the way to the colder area near the foot of the Alps, Riva del Garda. There are natural waterfalls, and a cable carte to Monte Baldo

Top 7 villages to see on Lake Garda.

Lake Maggiore

For the grandeur - Its islands, such as Isola Bella and Isola Madre, are famous for their elaborate gardens and palatial residences. Monumental buildings that stand out are the Church of Saints Gervasio and Protasio, Villa Pallavicino and Rocca di Angera Castle.
For the curiosities -The lake's surroundings are great at hiding gems between the forests and town alleyways, like the little fishermen's houses dating back to the 16th century, or the Museum of Dolls and Toys.
For the adrenaline - The nearby town of Stresa hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year, and Bavena holds an annual powerboat race!
For the promenades - Straddling the border between Italy and Switzerland, offers a more tranquil escape. The best kept secret are the marinas, like the one found in Cannero Riviera, full of Italian coffee bars and local boutiques.

Top 10 places to discover close to Lake Maggiore.

Best places to live near lakes in Northern Italy

Find your holiday rental or property for sale near Lake Como
Find your holiday rental or property for sale near Lake Garda
Find your holiday rental or property for sale near Lake Maggiore

Most famous villages in Northern Italy

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Cities like Milan, Venice, and Turin are the cultural heartbeat of Northern Italy. Each city offers a unique glimpse into Italy's rich history and contemporary lifestyle, we know of Milan's fashion-forward atmosphere, Venice's romantic waterways and Turin's baroque architecture. As well as being great to visit, they are also among the best places to live in Northern Italy.

Milan

It is not only the fashion capital of the world but also a hub for design and finance, which is why many expats choose this bustling city to study or build their career. In fact, it's located among the world's best cities for freelancers. To peruse, one must see the shopping districts with the latest in clothes and furniture craftsmanship, as well as its historical landmarks the Milan Cathedral and Sforza Castle. For a serious outing, there's La Scala Opera House and museums like the Brera Art Gallery drawing international visitors; but for the revelry of the youngsters, Navigly and Isola are vibrant places to go.

Venice

Known as the 'Floating City', is famed for its intricate waterways and striking architecture. The Grand Canal shimmers with reflections of palatial buildings lined along its banks, especially colourful during Carnival; while St. Mark’s Square throngs with tourists captivated by its architectural magnificence. Venice also hosts world-renowned events such as the Biennale and the Venice Film Festival. To alleviate the strain from the significant tourist crowds amassed, there's been a five-euro fee added to visitors on popular Italian holidays, 29 days spanning from April to July.

Turin

Once the capital of the Duchy of Savoy and later the first capital of unified Italy; Turin is rich in baroque heritage and local Italian singularities that make it one of the best cities to escape to. This is best appreciated within the city’s grand boulevards and squares, such as Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo, which are lined with inherited cafés and shops. The food there is phenomenal, with the famed cuisine alla Piemontese, with things like lamb stuffed pasta Agnolotti and fried game-meats to share with the table. Turin is also famous for its museums, including the Egyptian Museum and the National Cinema Museum housed in the iconic Mole Antonelliana.

Coastal Towns in Northern Italy

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Cinque Terre, in the Lingurian coast, is renowned for the vibrant coloured houses perched on rugged cliffs, and for being relatively remote for those that visit Italy. The smaller crowds are the sole ones to benefit from the mild weather and raw, almost undisturbed land. The coast is good for walks and contemplation:

Hiking: These towns offer the best trails for those eager to capture panoramic views of the Mediterranean. They're of varying degrees of difficulty, ensuring that everyone from casual walkers to seasoned athletes, can find a route that suits their abilities. Moreover, the region's commitment to sustainable tourism means that visitors can enjoy these experiences knowing they are preserving the environment for future generations.
The Gulf of Poets: We know that hiking between the towns provides not just exercise but also an opportunity to witness the breathtaking scenery that has nourished artists for centuries, like Marinetti, Lawrence and Shelley, or Turner and Botticelli.

Cinque Terre is made up of:

Corniglia, the most quiet and tall of all
Manarola, home to vineyards for the adults and cliff diving for the kids
Riomaggiore, home to charming apartments and buzzing nightlife
Monterosso al Mare with expansive beaches and fishing boats with orange netting
Vernazza known for its delicious pesto dishes and stunning waterfront piazza.

Wine Regions in Northern Italy

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Celebrated for producing some of Italy's finest wines, these areas offer oenophiles a chance to taste exquisite varieties and learn about the intricate wine-making process amidst the many local rolling vineyards. The experience is enriched by both of the regions' historical sites and local cuisine, which perfectly complements the wines. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the vinicultural experience, both regions host annual festivals, that highlight the best of what Northern Italy has to offer both in wine and food patrimony.

Piedmont

Famed for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, made from the Nebbiolo grape, which are often referred to as the "King and Queen" of Italian wines due to their richness in flavor and aging potential. Wine tours in this region allow visitors to explore ancient wineries and taste world-class wines directly from the barrel. The Marchesi di Barolo winery began with a family in the 1800's, who still is making the most of the fresh climate that's derived from being in the centre of the Alps and Appennines, creating the perfect taste.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Friuli-Venezia Giulia, in northeastern Italy, is renowned for its diverse and high-quality wines. The region boasts a variety of white wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Friulano, and Pinot Grigio, known for their crispness and aromatic profiles. Red wines like Merlot and Refosco also thrive here. The unique terroir, influenced by both the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, contributes to the distinctive character of its wines. Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s wine culture is marked by a blend of traditional and innovative winemaking techniques, making it a notable region for wine enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

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Where do most Expats live in Northern Italy?

Northern Italy, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers an array of experiences that cater to all types of expats to suit their homeland habits. From the majestic cold peaks of the Dolomites to the tranquil waters of Lake Maggiore, from leisure activities like skiing and hiking in the Alps to cultural explorations in Piedmont vineyards; expats looking for luxury homes tend to go more towards lakes like Como. Expats looking for cosmopolitan amenities and a historical narrative, will look at cities like Milan, Trento, Bolzano and Verona.

Is Northern Italy cold in the winter?

All in all, the north is wetter and colder. In the winter, sirocco breezes can pass by and moisten the air to mellow it, but it stays mostly from -10°C to 10°C. The snow later will become rain showers in Spring and Autumn. The Adriatic coast is cooler than the Mediterranean, and cities tend from above 0°C to about 25°C depending on the season. Curiously, Bolzano is one of the hottest cities in the whole of Italy. The difference between the high peaks of the mountains, compared to the valleys is drastic; it has the coldest mountains but warmest downtown in the Alpine area. The hottest areas can be found near the lakes, where the wind will pass by from the start of May and reduce the humidity. In the summer there'll be almost nine hours of daily rays.

Is the North of Italy better than the South?

It’s not really a matter of one being better than the other; it's more about what you're looking for. Northern Italy offers stunning landscapes, historic cities like Milan and Venice, and a more alpine culture. Southern Italy, with regions like Sicily and Naples, provides a warmer climate, beautiful coastlines, and rich traditions. Each has its unique charm and strengths, so the "better" option depends on your preferences and interests.

Is Northern Italy a good place to retire?

We've seen how Italy has something for everyone, and especially for retirees who are looking to spend time in more remote locations, with exceptional food and the cosmopolitan attitude of the north. For more ideas on where to settle, have a peak at the list below:

Villages near mountains: Vèrres, Levico Terme, Varallo, Riccia and Pergola are 5 of the 20 locations chosen among the most beautiful villages in Italy by the well-known competition 'Il borgo dei borghi 2022'.
Lakes: The Alimini protected oasis marshes in the Lecce province and the emerald Lake Braies/Pragser Wildsee
Coastal Towns: within our list of Italy's most beautiful beach villages we must include Porto Venere and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Villages near vineyards: for wine and dried shad at Franciacorta, Valtellina to also taste the pizzocherri and Valpolicella for wine and sopressa.

Continue exploring our idealista/news Italy articles for more travel tips and destination guides to enhance your adventures around the world.