Italy's Northern Lakes - from Milan to Verona

About the destination: With an almost Northern European feel, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. The capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - influential in industries from finance to fashion and, of course, football. But what gives Milan its unique charm is its status as the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels and paparazzi flock to the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. This is undoubtedly one of the best places in Italy to shop, or simply window shop. Milan is the primary industrial, commercial and financial hub of Italy and as such, it unsurprisingly has a business-like appearance. At first glance, it may lack the wow factor, but if you take the time and are determined to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – and they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle and bustle, and you will stumble upon impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the stylish Brera district and vibrant university quarter, and it goes without saying that the city is home to landmarks such as the Duomo, and Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century masterpiece The Last Supper. Milan cannot be criticised when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife tends to kick off at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo in which locals unwind with post-work drinks and snacks before heading home is more the norm than the exception. So whether you’re looking for affordable fashion, an alternative city break or a chance to paint the town red, Milan has undoubtedly got it covered.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European feel, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. The capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - influential in industries from finance to fashion and, of course, football. But what gives Milan its unique charm is its status as the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels and paparazzi flock to the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. This is undoubtedly one of the best places in Italy to shop, or simply window shop. Milan is the primary industrial, commercial and financial hub of Italy and as such, it unsurprisingly has a business-like appearance. At first glance, it may lack the wow factor, but if you take the time and are determined to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – and they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle and bustle, and you will stumble upon impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the stylish Brera district and vibrant university quarter, and it goes without saying that the city is home to landmarks such as the Duomo, and Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century masterpiece The Last Supper. Milan cannot be criticised when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife tends to kick off at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo in which locals unwind with post-work drinks and snacks before heading home is more the norm than the exception. So whether you’re looking for affordable fashion, an alternative city break or a chance to paint the town red, Milan has undoubtedly got it covered.

About the destination: Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, is one of Europe’s most enchanting lakes. Its deep blue waters are framed by dramatic mountains, elegant villas, and lush gardens, creating a postcard-perfect landscape at every turn. The lake is shaped like an inverted “Y,” with charming towns scattered along its shores, each offering a distinct atmosphere—from glamorous and sophisticated to quiet and traditional. The town of Como, at the southern tip, is an ideal starting point. Stroll through its historic center with medieval walls, visit the Gothic Como Cathedral, and take the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. From here, regular ferries connect you to other lakeside gems such as Cernobbio, Menaggio, and the iconic Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of the Lake,” where cobbled streets, boutiques, and waterfront cafés invite slow, leisurely exploration. One of the lake’s greatest charms is its collection of historic villas and gardens. Don’t miss Villa del Balbianello near Lenno, famous for its terraced gardens and appearances in films like “Casino Royale” and “Star Wars.” Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo is another highlight, with its impressive art collection and botanical gardens bursting with azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons in spring. Many villas can be reached easily by boat, turning the journey itself into part of the experience. Beyond sightseeing, Lake Como is perfect for outdoor activities and culinary discovery. Hikers will find scenic trails leading to viewpoints and mountain refuges, while the lake offers opportunities for kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding in summer. Food lovers can savor fresh lake fish, homemade pasta, and local specialties such as pizzoccheri and polenta, best enjoyed on a terrace overlooking the water. Whether you’re seeking romance, relaxation, or gentle adventure, Lake Como offers a timeless escape in the heart of northern Italy.

About the destination: Brescia, often overlooked in favor of nearby Milan or Lake Garda, is one of Northern Italy’s most rewarding “hidden” cities. Nestled between vineyards and mountains in the Lombardy region, it blends Roman ruins, medieval lanes, and elegant piazzas with a lived‑in, authentic atmosphere. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, yet rich enough in culture and history to keep you busy for several days. The historic center is an open‑air museum. Start at Piazza della Loggia, framed by Renaissance arcades and the ornate Palazzo della Loggia, then stroll to Piazza Paolo VI to see the unusual duo of cathedrals: the round Romanesque Old Cathedral (Duomo Vecchio) and the grand Baroque New Cathedral (Duomo Nuovo). A short walk away, the UNESCO‑listed monastery complex of Santa Giulia and the nearby Capitolium temple reveal Brescia’s Roman origins, with mosaics, archaeological finds, and atmospheric cloisters. Above the city, the medieval Brescia Castle crowns Cidneo Hill and offers some of the best views over terracotta rooftops and the distant Alps. The castle grounds, with their towers, ramparts, and museums, are perfect for a slow afternoon wandering or a sunset picnic. Down below, stylish shops, traditional cafés, and lively aperitivo spots give the city a contemporary buzz—especially in the early evening when locals fill the squares. Brescia also makes an excellent base for exploring the region. The Franciacorta wine country, famous for its sparkling wines, lies just to the west, while the shores of Lake Iseo and Lake Garda are within easy reach by car or train. Whether you’re interested in history, food and wine, or simply experiencing an Italian city with fewer tourists and plenty of character, Brescia is a rewarding stop on any northern Italy itinerary.

About the destination: Set amidst endless vineyards and cypress groves, this blend of Roman ruins, pink palaces and whimsical tombs has a romantic beauty that is hard to overstate. Shakespeare set Romeo and Juliet here, and would likely be amused to know that his fictional lovers have become Verona’s top tourist attraction. However, Verona has more to offer than just Romeo and Juliet. In the centre of Verona, Brà square, there is the almost perfectly preserved Roman Arena. Up via Mazzini from the Arena is piazza delle Erbe, where tacky trinkets are sold amongst the Renaissance palazzo of former Veronese merchants and it has a lively atmosphere with charming cafes and stunning restaurants. Through an arch on the right are piazza dei Signori and the Tombs of the Scaligeri, the peculiar Gothic remnants of della Scalla, Verona’s medieval tyrants. The equestrian statue of Cangrande I, head of the Scalla clan is a glorification of raw power and can be visited at the museum of Castelvecchio. But if you are a hopeless romantic, at 23 via Cappello you’ll find Juliet’s house, where lovers scrawl their hopeful pleas. The house where Romeo used to live is now a pub. This ancient city oozes history from every brick and is well worth a visit.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European feel, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. The capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - influential in industries from finance to fashion and, of course, football. But what gives Milan its unique charm is its status as the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels and paparazzi flock to the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. This is undoubtedly one of the best places in Italy to shop, or simply window shop. Milan is the primary industrial, commercial and financial hub of Italy and as such, it unsurprisingly has a business-like appearance. At first glance, it may lack the wow factor, but if you take the time and are determined to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – and they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle and bustle, and you will stumble upon impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the stylish Brera district and vibrant university quarter, and it goes without saying that the city is home to landmarks such as the Duomo, and Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century masterpiece The Last Supper. Milan cannot be criticised when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife tends to kick off at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo in which locals unwind with post-work drinks and snacks before heading home is more the norm than the exception. So whether you’re looking for affordable fashion, an alternative city break or a chance to paint the town red, Milan has undoubtedly got it covered.