Ultimate Northern Italy Itinerary For 10 Days
This article about northern Italy itinerary for 10 days may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.
Table Of Contents
Overview Of Northern Italy Itinerary For 10 Days
How To Do This Northern Italy Itinerary
0. DAY: Arrive In Milan & MILAN ⇒ VERONA
Where to stay in Verona: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
1. DAY: VERONA
Suggested Itinerary For 1 Days In Verona
2. DAY: DAY TRIP FROM VERONA: PASTA, GELATO, WINE
3. DAY: VERONA ⇒ ST. ULRICH ORTISEI (Dolomites)
Where to stay in St. Ulrich Ortisei: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
4. DAY: SECEDA
5. DAY: ST. ULRICH ORTISEI ⇒ RIFUGIO LAGAZUOI (Dolomites)
Stay Overnight At Rifugio Lagazuoi
Where to stay in Cortina D’Ampezzo: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
6. DAY: RIFUGIO LAGAZUOI ⇒ VENICE
Where to stay in Venice: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
7. DAY: VENICE & MURANO ISLAND
8. DAY: VENICE ⇒ BASSANO DEL GRAPPA ⇒ MALCESINE (Lake Garda)
Where to stay in Malcesine: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
9. DAY: MALCESINE & LIMONE DEL SUL (Lake Garda)
10. DAY: DRIVE AROUND LAKE GARDA ⇒ SIRMIONE ⇒ MILAN
More Tips For Traveling In Europe
Northern Italy is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The reason is its stunning nature and the most outstanding European mountains – the Dolomites. But not only that; it’s also famous for its incredible lakes, cute towns and cities, and the most touristy must-to-see city, Venice.
On this Northern Italy itinerary for 10 days, we’ll embark on a spectacular journey through the best spots in the Dolomites and the most beautiful cities full of history. We’ll relax next to the stunning lakes and enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Venice.
If you’re planning to visit Northern Italy, you’ve chosen the perfect place for your vacation. This itinerary will help you to see its highlights.
Overview Of The Northern Italy Itinerary For 10 Days
Here is a quick overview for the ultimate Northern Italy itinerary for 10 days:
- Verona
- Day Trip From Verona: Pasta, Gelato, Wine-Tasting
- Verona ⇒ St. Ulrich Ortisei (Dolomites)
- Seceda (Dolomites)
- St. Ulrich Ortisei ⇒ Rifugio Lagazuoi (Dolomites)
- Rifugio Lagazuoi ⇒ Venice
- Venice
- Venice ⇒ Bassano del Grappa ⇒ Malcesine (Lake Garda)
- Malcesine & Limone Sul Garda
- Drive around Lake Garda ⇒ Sirmione ⇒ Milan
How To Do This Northern Italy Itinerary
The best way to explore Northern Italy is by car. There is no better option than making a road trip. So I recommend you rent a car in Milan and embark on the journey.
It’s especially worth it driving through the Dolomites. Even if you don’t visit anything, just driving through its tiny mountain roads is an experience of a lifetime. You’ll love every second of it. The views are spectacular, the environment amazing, and the cute little Italian towns are worth the stop.
So rent a car in Milan and make your 10-day northern Italy itinerary a road trip.
Northern Italy Itinerary – 0. DAY: MILAN ⇒ VERONA
If you want to stay in Milan, arrive one or two days before starting your northern Italy itinerary. It’ll be an excellent place to fight the jet lag and relax for a while. This itinerary doesn’t include a proper visit to Milan. It’s just a starting point for this road trip.
So once you rent a car in Milan, you can set off the big journey. At beginning of this itinerary, you’ll drive from Milan to Verona.
DRIVE MILAN ⇒ VERONA: approx. 1hour & 50 minutes (160 kilometers/100 miles)
Verona belongs to my favorite cities in Italy. It’s not because of the Balcony mentioned in Shakespeare’s poem ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ It’s because of its beautiful architecture and atmosphere. Unfortunately, many people, for some reason, choose to skip it when traveling in Italy. They instead go to Rome or Florence but miss out on seeing Verona.
On this Northern Italy itinerary, you’ll get to explore its beauty.
So check in to your accommodation, and head for lunch or dinner in the city center, depending on what time you arrive.
Where to stay in Verona: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
Restaurants In Verona
- Trattoria Pizzeria Impero
- Trattoria al Pompiere
- Antica Bottega del Vino
- Locanda 4 Cuochi
Today will be a chill day. You’ll have time to walk around and get a first glimpse of the city.
Northern Italy Itinerary – 1. DAY: VERONA
Good morning to Verona. Today, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city with its hidden gems.
Ready? Let’s go.
Sightseeing In Verona
- Juliet’s House
- Piazza delle Erbe
- Torre dei Lamberti
- Piazza dei Signori
- Castelvecchio
- Arena di Verona
- Garden Giusti
Verona’s best ‘attraction’ is to walk around, stroll through its tiny historical streets, and see some locals on their balconies.
So take it easy, and enjoy the city this way.
In the morning, I recommend seeing the famous Juliet’s House (in Italian called Casa di Giulietta) with its balcony and Juliet’s statue. This house was featured as the residence of the Capulet Family in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. Thanks to its balcony, Verona attracts thousands of visitors each day.
The house dates back to the 14th century. Many visitors come here specifically to leave notes and love letters on its walls, asking Juliet to solve their issues (mainly related to romantic relationships).
You can also visit its museum and learn more about Shakespeare’s story and the house.
PRO TIP: Come early in the morning if you want to enjoy the place for yourself. It’s very crowded throughout the day, and it isn’t easy to even access Juliet’s statue. Make sure to buy a skip-the-line ticket before arriving.
Suggested Itinerary For 1 Day In Verona
For a moment, admire the Piazza delle Erbe with its cute cafes and stunning architecture. Sometimes, it has hosts markets so you can buy souvenirs.
From there, admire the Torre dei Lamberti constructed by the Lamberti family back in the 11th century. It houses four bells, is 84 meters high, and offers panoramic views of the city.
Check out the Piazza dei Segnori, too. I recommend eating the best pizza in the restaurant Trattoria Pizzeria Impero.
Then walk to the Castelvecchio, the most important museum in town. It was built in the mid-1300s by the Scala family. Nowadays, you can explore many Renaissance sculptures, weapons, armor, jewelry from the past, and ancient bronze bells.
Finally, check out the famous Arena di Verona. It’s the ancient Roman amphitheater, one of the largest arenas in the world, and the best-preserved structures in Europe. It’s been used as a filming location in several movies, including Quo Vadis and Letters to Juliet.
Nowadays, many performances are organized on its stage. It can accommodate up to 30000 spectators.
Check out if there is a performance in the Arena di Verona in the evening. I highly recommend you experience it.
This is my suggested itinerary for Verona for you. Don’t forget to get delicious gelato, eat pasta, and more pizza.
Verona Guided Tour
Book one guided tour below to learn about Verona’s history and have fun with a local guide. Or, if you’re a foodie, book a food tour with wine tasting and eat at the best spots with a local:
Northern Italy Itinerary – 2. DAY: DAY TRIP FROM VERONA: PASTA, GELATO, WINE
Verona is a perfect place for some great day trips. What would a visit to Italy be without participating in a cooking class, gelato class, or a wine-tasting tour? So for now, we’ll stay in Verona, and you’ll have the entire day to make a day trip of your choice.
I’ve picked the top 3 day trips from Verona for you, so you can choose which one you feel like doing. It’s important to book these activities in advance before starting your trip.
One of them is private pasta making in an Italian home. You’ll learn how to make Italian pasta and eat it with locals in their homes.
The other activity is gelato making class. You’ll learn how to cook fresh fruit sorbet and make your own Italian gelato. After, you’ll get to taste what you’ve made.
The last tour is visiting a family-run winery and experiencing wine-tasting in their vineyards. You’ll taste the most delicious Italian wines, enjoy spectacular views, and see the 17th-century old cellar where they produce the wine.
So book one of these three activities for today, and enjoy Italian culture fully.
Northern Italy Itinerary – 3. DAY: VERONA ⇒ ST. ULRICH ORTISEI (Dolomites)
Today, we’ll drive from Verona up to the northern part of Italy. It’s time to explore the most beautiful mountains in Europe – the Dolomites.
In the morning, drive from Verona to St. Ulrich Ortisei.
VERONA ⇒ ST. ULRICH ORTISEI: 2 hours & 30 minutes (188 kilometers/116 miles)
OPTIONAL COFFEE STOP IN TRENTO:
If you want, you can stop in Trento on the way. There is little to do. You can have lunch or taste Italian delicacies in local shops, such as prosciutto, salami, pesto, and cheese. Then continue driving to St. Ulrich Ortisei.
Welcome to the Val Gardena, one of the most beautiful parts of the Dolomites. We’ll stay overnight in St. Ulrich Ortisei town, and explore the best attraction tomorrow.
St. Ulrich Ortisei is a small Italian town in the middle of the Dolomites. It’s famous for its great outdoor activities, winter skiing, and summer hiking trails. It’s also for those who prefer enjoying the mountain views without trying to hike up the mountains.
The most famous mountain to visit in this region is Seceda. You can take a funicular and a cable car up and enjoy the stunning atmosphere. Tomorrow, we’ll explore this place.
For now, check in to your accommodation, enjoy the beautiful atmosphere, walk around the town, and relax.
Where to stay in St. Ulrich Ortisei: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
Restaurants In St. Ulrich Ortisei
- Cascade Ristorante Pizzeria Bar
- Restaurant Pizzeria Terrazza
- Mauriz Keller – Restaurant – Pizzeria
Northern Italy Itinerary – 4. DAY: SECEDA
Good morning to Val Gardena. Today, we’ll visit one of the most beautiful mountains in this region and enjoy some hiking with delicious food.
Seceda was my favorite place I visited in the Dolomites. It’s part of the so-called Odle Group, a subrange of the Dolomites mountains. You might also see the term Sëceda in the local Ladin language.
Seceda has an elevation of 2,519 meters (8,264 feet), which makes it a perfect spot to admire the mountain views.
I’ll never forget getting up, seeing the beauty, and staying at the local mountain hut. I sat on the grass, ordered Italian delicacies (Bombardino and apple strudel with vanilla sauce), and kept staring at the mountains. It was quiet and relaxing, and I felt like in heaven.
I’m sure you’ll love it, too.
So in the morning, take a cable car from St. Ulrich Ortisei town to the Furnes. From there, take a huge cabin car up to Seceda.
You don’t have to book your tickets in advance. Just go in the morning and pay directly at the counter.
Take Cable Cars: St. Ulrich Ortisei Town ⇒ Furnes ⇒ Seceda
Things To Do In Seceda
Once you’re up at the Seceda, take your time to walk up to the viewing point, Panorama Seceda. A big compass shows where other big European cities and mountain peaks are. You’ll be able to see Switzerland and Austria from there, too.
Then walk towards the famous Seceda Ridgeline and take some nice photos.
After, head to the mountain hut called Baita Sofie Hütte. They have the best apple strudel with vanilla sauce. You can also eat lunch and have it for dessert. Don’t forget to try Bombardino, the famous Italian sweet drink made from alcohol and egg yolk liquor. Add whipped cream on top.
If you want to do some hiking in Seceda, here are my top picks:
- Seceda Panorama Trail
- the Odle High Route
- Adolf-Munkel Trail
Other two activities you can enjoy are mountain biking and paragliding.
Enjoy another evening in the St. Ulrich Ortisei town, get some good food, and relax.
Northern Italy Itinerary – 5. DAY: ST. ULRICH ORTISEI ⇒ RIFUGIO LAGAZUOI (Dolomites)
Today, we have another great place to see.
Have some delicious breakfast, and then hit the road again. This is the most scenic ride on your entire northern Italy road trip itinerary. So have your camera and phone ready.
You’ll be passing through the famous Sella Ronda. It’s a skiing route around the Marmolada mountain in the Dolomites. You’ll cross several mountain passes and drive through curved roads. Stop whenever you can and enjoy the views. Pay attention to the bikers as they’re everywhere, cycling on the side of roads.
In the morning, drive to the Falzarego Pass. Leave your car there. We’ll be visiting the beautiful mountain hut called Rifugio Lagazuoi.
ST. ULRICH ORTISEI ⇒ FALZAREGO PASS: 1 hour & 10 minutes (48 kilometers/30 miles)
Once you’re at the Falzarego Pass, you have two options; to hike up or take a cable car.
Falzarego Pass has a small hut where you can use the bathroom, change clothes, have a coffee or a cake, and buy souvenirs. From there, you can continue up to Rifugio Lagazuoi.
The big parking next to the hut is free of charge.
Rifugio Lagazuoi
Rifugio Lagazuoi, an Italian word for a mountain hut, is located on Mount Lagazuoi. It’s mainly famous for its role in World War I. You can explore the impressive outdoor Lagazuoi War Museum, which is located below the mountain hut. You’ll see the hiding spots of soldiers with wooden doors. Just imagine how the Italians and the Austro-Hungarian forces were fighting and shooting from those mountains.
Once you’re at the Rifugio Lagazuoi, take some time to walk around and enjoy the incredible views. After, have a delicious Italian lunch inside.
PRO TIP: If you want, you can first take a cable car up. And then walk down back to the Falzarego Pass, seeing the entire outdoor museum. You’ll only see a few shooting spots when you walk around the Rifugio Lagazuoi. If you want to see the entire museum, you must hike down.
Stay Overnight At The Rifugio Lagazuoi
If you want, you can stay overnight in the rifugio, which is an amazing experience. You can enjoy the sauna at night, watch the star, and wake up to stunning mountain views.
NOTE: Rifugio Lagazuoi is only open from June to September, so plan your trip accordingly.
Alternatively, if you don’t like staying up in the mountains, get back to the Falzarego Pass and drive your car to the Cortina d’Ampezzo.
With this itinerary, I’ll consider you staying at the Rifugio Lagazuoi.
RIFUGIO LAGAZUOI – book rooms on their website
Where to stay in Cortina D’Ampezzo: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
RADISSON RESIDENCES SAVOIA PALACE
Northern Italy Itinerary – 6. DAY: RIFUGIO LAGAZUOI ⇒ VENICE
Good morning to the Dolomites. Whether you stayed at the Rifugio Lagazuoi or in Cortina d’Ampezzo, today, it’s time to leave the Dolomites. So enjoy your breakfast first.
After, we’ll drive from the Dolomites all the way down to the sea, visiting the romantic city of Venice.
This will be another stunning ride. I love how you’re driving through the impressive mountains and slowly descending to the sea. You’ll see a castle ruin, mountain lakes, and spectacular mountains. So enjoy until you come to the sea and reach Venice.
FALZAREGO PASS ⇒ VENICE: 3 hours & 20 minutes (210 kilometers/130 miles)
Once you drive to Venice, I recommend leaving your car at the Piazzale Roma Parking garage. It’s the closest to the center.
Remember, Venice is a car-free town, where the main transportation is the water taxi called the vaporetto.
Piazzale Roma Parking
Piazzale Roma Parking is the one closest to the city. It’ll be slightly more difficult to reach it because of the traffic, but you’ll be the closest to the city center.
Price: 11 Eur for 3 hours, 21 Eur for up to 24 hours
Take Vaporetto From P. Roma To San Marco (Line n. 2)
Once you park your car, take the most important stuff for your 2 nights in the Venice center. Take only the things you need and leave everything else in the car. You’ll only return to the car the day after tomorrow, so plan accordingly.
Once ready, take a water taxi (Vaporetto) from Piazzale Roma to San Marco. It’s the water taxi line 2 (red one). It leaves from the Piazzale Roma ‘G’ platform. You can buy tickets on the spot.
Where to stay in Venice: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
Venice
What would a Northern Italy itinerary be without visiting the most famous city of all, Venice?
It’s time to spend some time in the city of romance, ride the Venetian Gondola, and enjoy world-class glass-blowing show near the city of Venice.
We’ll also visit the Murano Island, famous for its glass-blowing factories. I love visiting this island and seeing how they produce beautiful glass things. So this is one thing you can’t miss in Venice.
Let’s dive into things you should see while you’re here.
Sightseeing In Venice
- St. Mark’s Square
- Rialto Bridge
- St. Mark’s Basilica
- St. Mark’s Campanile (Bell Tower)
- Doge’s Palace
- Gondola Ride
- Murano Island – for glass-blowing
- Arsenal
Suggested Itinerary For 1 Day In Venice
Once you arrive in Venice, check in to your accommodation and head to the city to explore it for half a day. First, go to St. Mark’s Square and enjoy its atmosphere. Sometimes, there are musicians next to the restaurants, so enjoy the music and admire St. Mark’s Basilica and its Bell Tower (called Campanile in the Italian language).
If you want, you can also visit the St. Mark’s Basilica with the Doge’s Palace. To do so, I suggest buying skip-the-line tickets. The lines are always super long, and you would waste time waiting to enter.
What I highly suggest you see is Arsenal. During the 4th Crusades, Venetians built a huge fleet of ships to transport the Crusaders and feed the knights. Venice constructed a naval facility called Arsenal (translated from the Arabic language as the ‘house of manufacture) to do so.
Later, this Arsenal became the center of the Venetian state and the world’s largest military installation producing weapons. Just imagine how much power Venice had in the past. It’s impressive to see the Arsenal and learn about its history.
In the late afternoon, take the romantic Gondola and ride through the Venice canals. This is one thing I really enjoy doing in Venice, even though I’ve already done it 5 times. It’s a special occasion and a unique experience. So ride the Venetian Gondola while you’re in the city.
Book your Gondola ride through the Grand Cannal of Venice by clicking on the image below:
Restaurants In Venice
- Venissa Ristorante
- Trattoria da Romano
- Pizzeria Principe
- Riva Rosa
Northern Italy Itinerary – 7. DAY: VENICE & MURANO ISLAND
I gave you almost two days in Venice because you must see Murano Island. So today, after you have a delicious breakfast, take a water taxi to Murano Island and see the glass-blowing show.
You can either go by yourself, or take an organized group tour, visiting Murano and Burano Island.
Take a water taxi (vaporetto), Line 7, to Murano Island.
The vaporetto Line n. 7 runs every 30 minutes, starting at 10:14 am. I recommend coming to the port at St. Mark’s Square earlier to get the ticket for the vaporetto ride. Or you can also buy the tickets in the evening before (better).
Enjoy the right on the vaporetto until you arrive in Murano. The vaporetto ride takes 27 minutes.
NOTE: The last vaporetto from Murano Island to St. Mark’s Square leaves at 4:45 pm.
Sightseeing On Murano Island
- Glass Blowing Factory
- Museo del Vetro – Glass Blowing Museum
- Campo Santo Stefano
The most important thing to see on this island is the glass-blowing art. So you can’t miss visiting one of the local factories and, with some, even try making your own glass. Book some of the glass-blowing shows and experiences on Murano Island. Some excursions include a water taxi from St. Mark’s Square, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
If you’re still interested, visit the glass-blowing museum (Museo del Vetro). First, you’ll learn the Venetian techniques and art of glass blowing, a tradition for centuries. After, you can also buy some unique glass pieces as a souvenir for your home.
Campo Santo Stefano is mainly famous for its blue glass sculpture in the middle of the square. It’s officially called the ‘Comet Glass Start.‘ Walk to the square and take some photos.
Once you’ve seen the glass-blowing art on Murano Island, head back to St. Mark’s Square,
Enjoy the evening in Venice, have delicious dinner, and relax.
Organized Tour To Murano & Burano Islands
If you want to enjoy both islands, including glass-blowing show, and a glass of prosecco, book the tour below. You’ll also have a guide that’ll explain you about everything you’ll see:
Northern Italy Itinerary – 8. DAY: VENICE ⇒ BASSANO DEL GRAPPA ⇒ MALCESINE (Lake Garda)
Good morning to Venice. It’s time to move on through our Northern Italy itinerary. Today, we’ll be heading to our last destination. On the way, we’ll visit one special charming town few people know about.
So take your luggage and the vaporetto line n. 2 to the Piazzale Roma parking in the morning.
After, start driving to Bassano del Grappa town.
VENICE ⇒ BASSANO DEL GRAPPA: 1 hour & 15 minutes (100 kilometers/62 miles)
Bassano Del Grappa
This cute Italian town is mainly famous for its beautiful covered wooden bridge over the River Brenta, grappa liquor produced in the area, best pizzetta, and ceramics.
I’ve brought you here to see its picturesque bridge over the River Brenta. Seeing, taking photos, and walking through the historic town is nice.
Stop at the Bottega del Pane for lunch to try the most delicious pizzetta. Afterward, walk around the town, and buy some grappa liquor to try later once you reach today’s destination.
Then have a coffee, and continue driving towards Lake Garda. I’ll use the official Italian name in this itinerary: Lago di Garda. It’s the largest Italian lake.
BASSANO DEL GRAPPA ⇒ MALCESINE: 2 hours & 10 minutes (167 kilometers/104 miles – drive via Vinceza & Verona)
Lago Di Garda (Lake Garda) – Malcesine
Lago di Garda has many small towns to visit. For tonight, we’ll sleep in the town named Malcesine.
On the way from Bassano del Grappa, you’ll be driving alongside Lake Garda. Once you arrive in the town called Garda, the road leads alongside the lake. This drive is spectacular. So enjoy it to the fullest until you arrive in Malcesine.
Then check in to your accommodation and have a good dinner.
Tomorrow, we’ll explore the town and enjoy the lake.
Where to stay in Malcesine: My TOP TIPS for Accommodation
Restaurants In Malcesine
- Ristorante La Cambusa
- Ristorante Pizzeria Italian da Nikolas
- Taverna dei Capitani
- II Covo della Taranta
Northern Italy Itinerary – 9. DAY: MALCESINE & LIMONE DEL SUL (Lake Garda)
Good morning to Malcesine. Today, we’ll not be driving, so you can relax.
In the morning, I recommend taking a boat to the other side of the lake, a town called Limone Sul Garda.
Enjoy the beautiful boat ride, which takes about 30 minutes.
PRO TIP: You get the best views of the towns and enjoy Lake Garda the most from a boat. So this is a must-to-do activity.
Once you arrive in Limone Sul Garda, take your time to walk through the town.
Sightseeing In Limone Sul Garda
- Stroll its streets
- Walk the promenade
- Eat delicious gelato
- Visit Lemon Museum
- Explore local shops
Limone Sul Garda is a tiny place at Lake Garda with just over 1000 inhabitants. The best way to enjoy it is to stroll through its streets, eat as much gelato as possible, and explore local shops with local production.
Gelato is the same (delicious) in all the shops. Go to the local stores, you can taste various Italian products, which is my favorite activity. You can taste things from prosciutto to homemade sausages, Italian cheese, pistachio cream, other cream varieties, liquors, and much more.
You can also visit the Lemon Museum to learn about how they grow and how locals care for them. Lemons are an essential Italian product, so check it out.
In the afternoon, take the boat back to Malcesine.
It’s time to enjoy this town now.
Sightseeing In Malcesine
- Scaliger Castle
- Cable Car To Monte Balto
- Malcesine’s Harbour
- Stroll its streets
Scaliger Castle is the most beautiful medieval castle on the shores of Lake Garda. It was originally built to control navigation on the lake. It’s surrounded by citrus trees and very nice to visit.
If you still have time, you can take a cable car to Monte Balto. This cable car ride is truly spectacular. Firstly, it offers unique views of Malcesine town. Then, as you’re approaching the top of Monte Balto, the northern part of Lake Garda opens up in front of you. These views are stunning.
NOTE: Buy your tickets in advance as they’re always long lines for the cable car.
Once you’re on the top, walk around, enjoy the views, and soak up the atmosphere.
Otherwise, as with Limone Sul Garda, Malcesine is beautiful when you stroll through its streets, visit local shops, go to the harbor to see some boats, and enjoy its atmosphere.
Walk through its promenade to see the Scaliger Castle from a different side and enjoy the sunset.
In the evening, have a good dinner in one of the local restaurants.
Northern Italy Itinerary – 10. DAY: DRIVE AROUND LAKE GARDA ⇒ SIRMIONE ⇒ MILAN
On the last day of your northern Italy itinerary, we’ll do a scenic drive around Lake Garda, the largest Italian lake, and drive back to Milan in the evening.
FUN FACT: Drive around Lake Garda is 150 kilometers long and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
In the morning, hit the road again and drive north alongside Lake Garda until you reach a small town called Riva del Garda.
Then continue driving south. Today, you’ll drive almost around the entire lake. You’ll pass by Limone del Sul, which you visited yesterday. Drive further until you reach Tremosine Sul Garda.
Tremosine Sul Garda
Tremosine Sul Garda is a unique spot as it offers some of the best views of Lake Garda. However, the most beautiful town in this part is Pieve, also known as the paradise of cliffs. I suggest making a stop to enjoy the views from the observation deck named Terrazza del Brivido. Or enjoy coffee in some of the local restaurants in Pieve.
Strada Della Forra
Tremisone is mainly famous for its beautiful road with tiny bridges. That’s what makes it so special. It’ll be the next sight to see while driving. Just above Pieve, you’ll reach the Strada della Forra road when you continue driving south. Make sure you open the windows as you drive through the cave tunnels to hear the stream and waterfalls. This is the most spectacular part of the entire ride today. So enjoy.
PRO TIP: When you’re in Malcesine on day 9. ask locals if the Strada della Forra leading from Pieve is open. Sometimes, it’s closed, so make sure what’s the status. If it’s closed from Pieve, drive first south in the morning (passing Sirmione) and reach the Strada della Forra and Pieve from the other side.
Spiaggia Toscolano Beach
If you want to enjoy the lake, stop at the Spiaggia Toscolano beach for a while. Go for a swim or have a moment to look around.
Then continue driving all the way south to Sirmione. It’ll be our last stop at Lake Garda before leaving.
Sirmione is the most visited city on the lake, which is often very crowded. It’s very popular with cruise ships, taking customers here for a day trip. Yet it’s still nice to see and a good spot to have lunch.
PRO TIP: I recommend stopping at this Parking lot in Sirmione: Via XXV Aprile, 98, 25019 Sirmione BS, Italy
The other parking slots closer to the city entrance are always super crowded, and you would stand too long in a line of cars trying to get out.
Sightseeing In Sirmione
- Castello Scaligero
- Cruise around by boat
- Explore the medieval city center
- Take comboio to Grotte di Catulo
- Visit Grotte di Catulo
Sirmione is a beautiful medieval city. The best way to see it is to stroll through its tiny streets, see local shops, and enjoy the best coffee and croissants.
Another great way to see it is by hopping on a boat and doing a small cruise around the peninsula. This is the best way to get unique views of the city. Go to the But you can easily skip it if you only have a little time.
You can take a boat tour around Sirmione from this spot. Here is the address for you: Piazza Giosuè Carducci, 2, 25019 Sirmione
Taking a comboio (touristic train) towards the Grotte di Catulo is a lot of fun, too. You can take it from ‘II Trenino Delle Grotte.’ In the end, you can explore the Roman excavation Grotte di Catulo. These are Roman ruins standing here since the 1st century BC.
BEST COFFEE & CROISSANTS: You must go to Caffè Grande Italia for the best croissants. They also make delicious cappuccino, so try it out for yourself.
Restaurants For Lunch In Sirmione
- La Roccia
- L’Accanto
- II Vicolo (hamburgers)
In the evening, drive back to Milan.
This will be the end of your northern Italy itinerary for 10 days.
I hope you get the most out of it, enjoy every second, and see as many places as possible on this itinerary.
More Tips For Traveling In Europe
If you like to explore more from Italy, head to my Italy page for more articles.
If you want to explore other countries around Italy, check out Switzerland. Milan is very close and getting to Switzerland is easy from the city. Read my article about how to make a perfect day trip from Milan to Switzerland. After this road trip, you can stay one more day in Milan and visit a brand-new country.
Or get my 8-day Switzerland itinerary to see the Swiss highlights.
Similarly, you can continue to France and take my south of France itinerary for 14 days. Or explore some of the most beautiful medieval castles in France.
If you love nature, you’ll enjoy Slovenia. It’s a neighboring Italy, so you can easily visit it after this northern Italy itinerary. Get my Slovenia road trip itinerary for 5 days and enjoy Slovenian nature.
Head to my travel itineraries or destinations page for more inspiration on European travel.
Happy travels!
