Northern Italy Itinerary Two Weeks: Cities & Coastline

Florence, the beautiful capital of the Italian region Tuscany, lies in the center of the country. A small city with a big heart, and an even bigger offering of artistic and historical treasures. For centuries, travelers have journeyed to the birthplace of the Renaissance era to marvel at the many masterpieces of architecture and art: Michelangelo's iconic David, the impressive works of Botticelli, the Uffizi Gallery (packed with works by Caravaggio and Da Vinci), and of course, Brunelleschi's remarkable dome — the religious centerpiece of Florence that dominates the skyline. All are absolute must-sees on any itinerary. Once you've ticked off these renowned attractions, you can take a stroll through the vast Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte for a breathtaking view of this beautiful, enchanting city.

Venice is a small, unique city in Italy’s Veneto region, a historic center made up of 118 small islands in a lagoon of the Adriatic Sea, connected by a complex network of canals and footbridges. The stately palaces and ancient churches remain as fascinating reminders of what was once a major trading hub between Europe and the Orient. From the famous Gothic Doge’s Palace and the breathtaking St. Mark’s Basilica to the awe-inspiring brilliance of Titian’s Assumption altarpiece lighting up an entire cathedral, Venice has remained virtually unchanged for the past 600 years. Other must-see attractions include the Bridge of Sighs, the spectacular Peggy Guggenheim Collection (art gallery), the captivating Gallerie dell’Accademia (museum), and of course, gondola rides along the canals.

Situated in the Veneto region of northern Italy, the city of Verona is a romantic gem that lives up to its literary fame. It’s no wonder Shakespeare chose this enchanting place as the backdrop for Romeo and Juliet. Travelers come to see Juliet’s iconic balcony and experience the city’s dreamy, timeless atmosphere. Unlike its more crowded neighbor Venice, Verona maintains a calm, relaxed pace. The city’s architectural treasures include the incredible 2,000-year-old Roman Arena, which hosts an acclaimed summer opera festival. Baroque façades, stately palazzos, and cobblestone alleys are home to museums packed with historical and artistic treasures. Verona also boasts stylish boutiques and outstanding restaurants serving some of Italy’s finest cuisine.

The vibrant metropolis of Milan is the capital of Italy’s Lombardy region in northern Italy. Always at the forefront of international fashion, Milan’s sleek, glamorous facade has earned it a reputation for superficiality and excessive consumerism. However, beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders—from its magnificent Gothic churches, Baroque mansions, and Art Nouveau palazzos to the striking modern skyscrapers of the Porta Nuova financial district. Must-see landmarks include the spectacular Milan Cathedral (Duomo), the glass-vaulted Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and of course, La Scala—one of the world’s most renowned opera houses. Milan offers something for everyone: those in search of high-end designer shopping will be more than satisfied, as will visitors interested in fascinating historical sites and extraordinary architectural achievements.

Genoa is the capital of Italy’s scenic, crescent-shaped Liguria region and sits on the Mediterranean coast known as the “Italian Riviera.” This vibrant port city is quintessential Italy, offering candy-colored seaside villas, sweeping coastal views, and a deep maritime history. Grab a gelato and stroll along the waterfront, watch fishing boats bob in the marina, and explore the maze of cobblestoned alleyways. The city is dotted with medieval treasures and brimming with flavorful local seafood. Don’t miss historic highlights like the ancient 12th-century Porta Soprana gate—said to be near the birthplace of Christopher Columbus—the striking Piazza de Ferrari with its grand bronze fountain, and the majestic black-and-white-striped Cathedral of Saint Lawrence.

Favourably situated on the western side of a wonderful nature reserve on the picturesque peninsula of Portofino on the Italian Riviera, rests the lovely little Italian fishing village of Camogli. Charles Dickens once famously referred to the town as “the saltiest, roughest, most piratical little place”! While the town is certainly still predominantly a salty-aired fishing village, it has managed to smooth out its rough edges to reveal its underlying potential as one of the most charming and attractive little resort towns in the area. With its quaint, highly-stacked and vivaciously-painted houses, numerous harbourside bars and its refreshingly laidback locals, this tranquil sunbathed fishing village is an ideal spot for travellers seeking a perfect combination of relaxation, culture, seaside fun and some sumptuous Italian culinary delights.

Sestri Levante is situated on the northwest coast of Italy in Liguria. This lovely seaside town, with roots that stretch back to ancient times, offers travellers a range of outdoor attractions and historic sights. A long coastline made up of two bays, the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Tales, which both offer sandy-pebble beaches with amenities for sunbathers, shallow waters for swimmers and promenades lined by cafes, ice-cream parlours and shops. The old town, lies between the two bays, where history enthusiasts will relish religious attractions such as the 17th-century Basilica of Saint Mary of Nazareth (home to numerous Baroque paintings), the remains of the 1500s Church of St. Catherine and the 12th-century Chiesa di San Nicolo Dell’isola; and heritage monuments like the 17th-century Sestri Town Hall; and the Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini.

Levanto is located on the northwest coast of Italy in Liguria. This town, on the Ligurian Sea, draws outdoor enthusiasts and also has historic charm. Known as a fantastic base from which to explore the Cinque Terre National park (and its ensconced villages), Levanto draws nature lovers who will relish the eco-tourism in this UNESCO listed cultural landscape. Active travellers will enjoy hiking and cycling tracks in the forested hills behind the town, swimming, surfing and diving in the ocean, as well as a number of local sports amenities including tennis courts. Levanto has retained its historical charm, with sights like a 13th-century castle, a well-preserved bell tower and city wall; numerous religious sites such as the Ligurian Gothic Church of Sant’Andrea and the 11th-century San Siro Church; and the UNESCO listed Piazza della Loggia.