Northern Italy Tours & Trips
Visit Northern Italy’s most beautiful spots on an unforgettable trip. See the Colosseum in real life, the Vatican in Rome, the Leaning Tower in Pisa. Don’t forget Florence? And what about the colorful villages of Cinque Terre? Ride gondolas in Venice, tour Verona, cruise Lakes Como and Garda, taste Chianti wines in Tuscany, and explore Milan's Duomo. It’s all waiting for you.
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- Choose from 450+ Northern Italy tours
- 1,100+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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Josee • traveled in July
As my first solo trip I wanted to be part of an organized trip that could provide me with flexibility, security, and the opportunity to be able to see a lot every day. Joe did all that and more. Everyday was a totally different experience and just so well organized. All the meals were way more than I expected and everyone had a place there. I got to learn a lot from Joe about the area of the dolomites from the history to the flowers and the way of living which was just over the top amazing. I couldn't say more about Joe who took care of everything and made my trip an experience of a lifetime.
Hiking in the Dolomites - C
cathy • traveled in May
Amazing The tour was perfect for me. I am 73 and can’t walk a lot but we went on every road, every pass, every valley. Our fabulous guide, who loves this tour, made sure we could see all of its splendor. There were only 7 of us so the size was perfect and the van was comfortable too. My only suggestion is to upgrade the hotels, if you can.. One was too basic for me and the other had no air conditioning and the staff was unorganized. All in all, it was very good. I hope to use this company again
4 Days Dolomites Tour - from Milan - E
Elsa • traveled in October
It was an excellent tour of the northern lakes. I enjoyed it more than expected.
4 Days Northern Lakes Tour - from Milan
Table of contents
- The best Northern Italy tour packages
- Travel Northern Italy your way
- Best tour companies for Northern Italy tours
- Popular Northern Italy Cruise Ships
- Best places to start your Northern Italy tour
- Discover Northern Italy tours for every budget
- Northern Italy tours for every type of group
- Top Northern Italy travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Northern Italy
- Contact our Northern Italy travel experts
- What our customers ask about Northern Italy Tours & Trips
The best Northern Italy tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern Italy travel expert at TourRadar
Hiking in the Dolomites
71 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had an amazing time. Our hikes were planned perfectly to avoid the rain.”
Dawn, traveled in July
The Hotel Tschurtschenthaler in Dobbiaco serves as base for Northern Italy's alpine wonders. Trails lead to Lake Braies (1,494m), circle Tre Cime peaks, and reach Strudelkopf's summit (2,307m). Optional visits include Bolzano's Iceman Museum and medieval Brunico with Messner Mountain Museum.
Duration 8 days Destinations Venice, Dobbiaco, Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, Moos, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lienz, Bolzano, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Prato Piazza Mountain Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From
- NZ$3,850
Enchanting Waters: Discovering the Lakes of Italy, Self-Drive
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Hotels were exquisite, and suggested activities were lovely. Gorgeous scenery, and fantastic locations.”
Laurie, traveled in April
Luxury awaits at Hotel Regina Palace and Villa Sofia during this Northern Italian sojourn. Lombardy's treasures include Milan's Duomo, Bergamo's Città Alta, and Lake Como's Villa Carlotta. Verona's Roman amphitheater and Borghetto sul Mincio's medieval charm complete the journey.
Duration 8 days Destinations Milan, Stresa, Lake Maggiore, Como, Bergamo, Garda, Verona Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator TUI Italia From $3,457
10% Off- NZ$3,111You save $346
4 Days Dolomites Tour - from Milan
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was wonderful and our driver was amazing.”
jacqueline, traveled in July
Northern Italy dazzles from medieval Verona to wine routes near Trento. The Gothic Duomo in Bolzano, Merano's Christmas markets, and local specialties along the Weinstrasse captivate visitors. Small-group format combines cultural sites with Alpine scenery across 11 distinctive cities.
Duration 4 days Destinations Milan, Verona, Pieve di Cadore, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Misurina, Corvara in Badia, Mount Marmolada, Canazei, Merano, BolzanoSee all destinations Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Europeando Europa From
10% Off- NZ$3,828
4 Days Northern Lakes Tour - from Milan
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The history shared was complete. The recommendations for dining was super.”
Kimberly, traveled in September
This Northern Italy tour weaves together five lakes, three UNESCO sites, and medieval towns. Orta San Giulio's monastery, Lake Maggiore's Borromean Islands, Como's waterfront villas, and Verona's Roman arena create lasting memories. Private boats, 4-star hotels, and prosecco tasting included, approx. $490 per day.
Duration 4 days Destinations Milan, Lake Orta, Lake Maggiore, Como, Bellagio, Bergamo, Sirmione, Garda, Verona, Iseo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Europeando Europa From
10% Off- NZ$4,233
Northern Italy's automotive legacy comes alive at Ferrari Museum Maranello and Lamborghini Museum. Bolognese Cesarine share their cooking secrets while cyclists ride past the iconic Two Towers and Archiginnasio. Four-day stay at SMY Bologna Centrale includes traditional lunches.
Duration 4 days Destinations Bologna Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Italian Operator TUI Italia From $1,693
10% Off- NZ$1,524You save $169
Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Rome: signature (4* hotels) carbon neutral tour by train
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Hotels were great, good European breakfasts. Walking tours informative.”
Debbie, traveled in May
Hotel Home Florence anchors this Northern Italian adventure featuring Pisa's Leaning Tower. Cinque Terre's colorful villages await, with included Trekking Card for unlimited train travel. Four-star accommodations and intimate groups of 20 participants ensure personal attention.
Duration 8 days Destinations Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Meet and Greet Italy From $4,443
20% Off- NZ$3,554You save $889
Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike & Kayak
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent guide with excellent itinerary.”
Suk, traveled in September
The picturesque coastal region of Northern Italy beckons for 8 days, from Levanto to Santa Margherita Ligure. Cinque Terre's famous trails, converted railway bike paths, and Portofino's crystal waters by kayak create active adventures. Seven breakfasts and local accommodation included, perfect for active travelers at around $2,700 total.
Duration 8 days Destinations Levanto, Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From
20% Off- NZ$4,460
Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Verona
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The scenery en route was spectacular and varied. The accommodation was always comfortable serving excellent buffet breakfasts.”
Robert, traveled in September
Merano's Alpine scenery opens this route to Lake Garda's shores. Highlights include Bolzano's markets, Trento's Buonconsiglio castle, and Soave's medieval fortress. Seven nights in comfortable hotels and mostly traffic-free cycling paths await.
Duration 8 days Destinations Venice, Merano, Bolzano, Caldaro, Trento, Garda, Verona, Soave, Mestre Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From
20% Off- NZ$5,090
Hiking in the Dolomites
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Great value for money. Excellent travel company.”
Narendra, traveled in August
The rugged terrain of Northern Italy unfolds from a Dobbiaco base, with trails through Ampezzo Natural Park's waterfalls and Boite River valley. Bruneck's Earth Pyramids, Monte Elmo's cross-border summit, and the Three Peaks of Lavaredo circuit await. Local cheese tastings and traditional mountain meals enhance the adventure.
Duration 8 days Destinations Venice, Dobbiaco, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cortina d’Ampezzo Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From
20% Off- NZ$5,895
Travel Northern Italy your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Northern Italy tours
From what our travelers tell us, Wanderful Holidays does an excellent job with the details - they're particularly good at finding those special hotels and making sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. You'll have someone to talk to throughout your trip if you need anything.If you're watching your budget, Italy on a Budget has some dedicated guides like Eduardo and Marie who really make Milan and Lake Como come alive. The accommodations are basic but clean, though we've had mixed feedback about the 4-Day Northern Lakes tour - some rooms didn't quite match what was advertised and the quality varied between stops.Explore's trips are solid choices if you're fit and experienced with hiking. Their guide Joe gets lots of praise, and the routes show off some incredible mountain scenery. Just keep in mind these aren't gentle walks - you'll need proper hiking experience and good stamina to fully enjoy them. I'd suggest choosing a different option if you're new to mountain hiking or prefer a more relaxed pace.In all cases, we've found the guides make a huge difference to how much people enjoy their trips. Each company has its sweet spot: Wanderful for luxury and attention to detail, Italy on a Budget for value with good guidance and Explore for active mountain experiences.
Popular Northern Italy Cruise Ships
Best places to start your Northern Italy tour
Milan stands out as the main gateway for Northern Italy tours, with 29 of our customers choosing to start there. Venice comes in second with 18 departures, while Rome, Merano and also Innsbruck each handle about 5 tour starts. Looking at our booking patterns, you'll want to lock in plans roughly 3.7 months (111 days) ahead to get the dates and places you want. While you can find budget hotels, our travelers often say it's worth going for mid-range spots for better quality. The real gems are often family-run agriturismos in the countryside - past guests tell us the warm welcome and local cooking made their trips special. For anyone heading to the Dolomites, our customers often wish they'd planned an extra day or two - there's just so much to photograph and explore in those mountains, more than most people expect.
Discover Northern Italy tours for every budget
Northern Italy tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Northern Italy travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers293 tours- Couples272 tours
- Seniors (50+)77 tours
Best time to visit Northern Italy
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter brings a different perspective to the classic Italian routes through Rome, Florence and also Venice, with our travelers enjoying the calmer atmosphere. The gondola rides feel more personal without tourist crowds, letting local guides share secret parts of Venice's narrow streets. WhatsApp support throughout each journey proves especially useful when winter weather affects plans, while the itineraries combine guided Colosseum and Roman Forum tours with time to explore independently. Our customers often mention how they appreciate seeing St. Mark's Basilica without the usual queues, and train journeys between cities showcase snow-covered landscapes through the windows. The hotels, positioned near main transport links, make it simple to explore despite the cool temperatures. Flexible scheduling means adjusting activities around weather patterns, and local guides know just where to find welcoming restaurants and indoor activities during the chillier days.
- 52 tours
- popular 54 tours
- 51 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring hits the sweet spot for Northern Italy's lakes and mountain tours. Starting from Milan, our April-May routes head to Lake Como where the Alps create perfect mirror images on the quiet waters. The 4-day northern lakes circuit really works well this time of year - you get perfect weather for boat rides to Bellagio and walks through Villa Carlotta as the camellias start to show their colors. Over at Lake Garda, our travelers love watching the Mediterranean plants wake up along the coastal paths. When May comes around, the Dolomites hiking tours begin just as alpine meadows fill with wildflowers, and those occasional snowy patches on high trails make for great photo opportunities.
- 68 tours
- 160 tours
- popular 224 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer opens up every mountain trail in Northern Italy. Our 8-day Dolomites programs mix serious hiking with nice hotels in Dobbiaco, and the Three Peaks circuit gives you views that seem to go on forever. The lakes really come alive too - Como and Garda are perfect for mixing culture with swimming breaks. We build in time between town visits so you can cool off at local beaches. The Bernina Express train comes with welcome air conditioning for the Alps crossing, and those warm evenings work perfectly for tasting sessions at Franciacorta's hillside wine estates.
- popular 260 tours
- 253 tours
- 241 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn brings out the best in Northern Italy's food scene. September and October visitors join the wine harvest in Franciacorta, where our small groups get private tastings at family vineyards. The mild weather makes city walks much nicer - especially around Milan's Duomo without the summer crowds. Lake Como puts on a show as mountain leaves turn gold and red, making a perfect setting for boat trips to Bellagio and also Varenna. Our Bologna cooking classes really shine this season too - you'll learn to make fresh pasta while trying new olive oils and wines straight from harvest.
- popular 262 tours
- 192 tours
- 42 tours
Contact our Northern Italy travel experts
Rufus
Expert in Northern Italy at TourRadar
Rufus is one of our seasoned Northern Italy Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Northern Italy tours answered!
- Choose from 481+ Northern Italy tours
- 1,135 verified reviews by TourRadar customers
- 24/7 customer support
Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Northern Italy Tours & Trips
How is Northern Italy's Culture Different from the Rest of Italy?
You'll find Northern Italy has this fascinating mix of Italian and Austrian influences that really shows up in everything from the buildings to the food. It's actually pretty interesting - the whole area was historically tied to the Austro-Hungarian Empire which gives it this unique feel compared to the South. Take Milan for example where cutting-edge fashion sits right next to historic buildings or head up to the Dolomites where the food has these amazing Germanic touches. There's this great dish called polenta taragna in Valtellina made with buckwheat flour that really shows off those Austrian connections.
Which Lakes in Northern Italy Are Worth Visiting and What Can You Do There?
Lake Como is just stunning honestly it's called the Pearl of Lake Como for good reason with these beautiful villages and fancy villas set against the Alps. You can hop on boat tours explore towns like Bellagio and hike for some incredible views. Take a boat to Tremezzo and check out Villa Carlotta the gardens and art there are amazing. Lake Garda's actually Italy's biggest lake and it's got everything from mountains to vineyards and historic castles. You can do water sports explore Sirmione and try local wines like Bardolino plus see UNESCO sites like the Brenta Dolomites. Lake Maggiore's perfect if you want something more peaceful with these lovely islands and gardens. The Borromean Islands are worth exploring especially Isola Bella with its palace that's got 30 rooms and 10 terraces of baroque gardens.
What Are Some Hidden Gems Beyond Milan and Venice?
Bergamo's got this amazing upper town called Città Alta with medieval architecture that really shows you Northern Italy's history. Take the funicular up explore the narrow streets and eat at family restaurants. The main square Piazza Vecchia has this impressive Campanone tower you can't miss. Parma's fantastic for food lovers you can actually visit cheese factories to see how they make Parmigiano Reggiano and check out prosciutto producers. Then there's Verona where Romeo and Juliet was set it's got this incredible romantic atmosphere. Make sure you see the Arena it's this Roman amphitheater where they still do operas today.
What About Those Famous Train Journeys Through Northern Italy?
The Bernina Express is really special it's actually UNESCO listed and takes you through these incredible Swiss Alps to St Moritz. You'll see mountain tunnels villages and views that are just unbelievable. The journey from Rome to Venice shows you everything from rolling hills to coastal towns and the high-speed trains make it super comfortable. The connections between Milan Florence and Venice are great too you get to see the countryside while traveling between the major cities. The Bernina Express takes about 2 hours to cross the Bernina Pass and ends in St Moritz which is this charming Swiss town.
What's the Best Way to Get Around Northern Italy?
The high-speed trains are really efficient for getting between the big cities like Milan Venice and Florence and they're super comfortable. The regular trains are great for reaching smaller towns and you've got ferry services on Como and Garda that let you see everything from the water. Local buses work well in cities and they're pretty cheap too. If you want more freedom rent a car but just remember parking can be tricky in bigger cities and traffic can get busy. From what TourRadar customers say mixing up different types of transport works best. Like when you're at Lake Como take one of those scenic ferries from Cadenabbia to Bellagio the views are incredible.