Must-visit cities in Northern Italy
From elegant piazzas to lakeside serenity and Alpine charm
Northern Italy is a land of contrasts—and of refined beauty. Here, all the things that make Italy so beloved come together without the crowds: timeless architecture, artistic treasures, pristine lakes, mountain air, and a food culture that celebrates simplicity and flavour. These are cities made for slow travel: lingering over a morning espresso, meandering through historic alleys, and discovering hidden corners where life moves at a gentler pace.
Below, we’ve curated our favorite cities across Northern Italy—especially in the northeast and the lake region—perfectly paired with a stay at one of our unique Nice2stay addresses.
Turin (Torino) – Graceful, understated, and full of surprises
Set at the foot of the Alps, Turin is a city of noble facades, elegant cafés, and world-class museums. It’s classic yet edgy, refined but never flashy—a city where art, chocolate, espresso, and architecture come together effortlessly.
Don’t miss:
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The Egyptian Museum – one of the best outside Cairo
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A traditional bicerin (espresso, chocolate, cream) in a 19th-century café
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Grand boulevards, porticoes, and views of the mountains
Milan – A cultural capital beyond fashion
More than just a design hub, Milan is a city of depth. Neoclassical elegance meets industrial minimalism. Hidden courtyards, Da Vinci masterpieces, concept stores, and craft coffee spots create a rhythm all its own.
Top picks:
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The iconic Duomo and its rooftop terrace
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The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (book ahead!)
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Aperitivo and gallery hopping in the Brera district
Bergamo – A tale of two cities
Bergamo is split between the modern lower city (Città Bassa) and the romantic medieval upper town (Città Alta), linked by a funicular. It’s compact, charming, and full of beautiful perspectives.
Why go:
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Aperitivo on Piazza Vecchia
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UNESCO-listed Venetian walls and cobbled streets
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A relaxed stop between Milan and the lakes or Dolomites
Verona – Romance in full colour
Verona is poetry in stone. Yes, there's Juliet’s balcony, but the real magic lies in the warm hues of the buildings, the curves of the Adige River, and the seductive rhythm of daily life.
Must-do experiences:
Must-do experiences:
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Opera under the stars at the ancient Roman arena
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Wine tasting in Valpolicella just outside the city
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Exploring historic piazzas and riverside promenades
Trento – Green, graceful, and full of history
Nestled between mountains and vineyards, Trento is a hidden gem that blends Renaissance grandeur with Alpine clarity. Everything is walkable—from castle to cathedral—and it makes the perfect base for outdoor adventures.
Highlights:
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Castello del Buonconsiglio and frescoed palazzi
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Organic trattorias and local wines from the Adige Valley
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Culture, calm, and fresh mountain air
Bolzano – Where Italy meets the Alps
In Bolzano, cultures meet and mingle. Italian and Germanic influences are felt everywhere: in the food, the language, and the architecture. It's a place for curious minds and lovers of alpine serenity.
Worth visiting for:
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The Ötzi Museum (Europe’s famous Iceman)
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The contrast of Gothic churches and Art Deco markets
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Panoramic cable cars and nearby hikes in the Dolomites
Merano – Wellness wrapped in Jugendstil
Como – Classic elegance on the lake
Como is the stylish gateway to one of Italy’s most iconic lakes. Stroll its marble-clad streets, take a ferry to Bellagio or Varenna, and admire the timeless villas nestled along the shore.
Don’t miss:
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The scenic cable car ride to Brunate
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Coffee at Piazza Cavour with views of the water
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Boutique shopping and boat trips across the lake
Lake Iseo – Understated and authentic
Smaller and more tranquil than Lake Como, Iseo is perfect for those seeking a slower rhythm and fewer crowds. Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, it offers an authentic slice of northern Italian life.
Top picks:
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Monte Isola – the largest island in any European lake
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Franciacorta wine tastings and vineyard picnics
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Charming lakeside aperitivo spots in Iseo town
Stresa & Lake Maggiore – Belle Époque by the water
Stresa, on the shores of Lake Maggiore, feels like a postcard from another time. Think grand hotels, palm gardens, and boat rides to baroque island villas.
What to explore:
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The Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre)
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Cable car up Monte Mottarone for panoramic views
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Botanical gardens and lakeside promenades
Why these cities?
Northern Italy’s cities blend elegance and authenticity. They’re less crowded than Rome or Florence, yet rich in culture, design, and soul. You can lose yourself in a quiet alley, discover a hidden trattoria, or sip local wine while the sun sets over a bell tower.
And the best part? Many of these cities are just a short drive from our handpicked Nice2stay accommodations. Whether you're planning a boutique city break, a romantic lake escape, or an Alpine retreat—Northern Italy offers the perfect backdrop.
And the best part? Many of these cities are just a short drive from our handpicked Nice2stay accommodations. Whether you're planning a boutique city break, a romantic lake escape, or an Alpine retreat—Northern Italy offers the perfect backdrop.
Want help planning a route or finding your dream stay near one of these destinations? We’d love to share our insider tips and help you design a journey that’s stylish, slow, and unforgettable.
Culinary traditions and regional flavors from Northern Italy