Unforgettable Moments: 10 Days in Northern Italy

You’ll likely arrive in the morning after an overnight flight. Most hotels in one of Fora’s partner programs will provide early check-in, upon availability. This is crucial for a refreshing shower and nap, so you can enjoy your first night. Note: The front desk staff at Excelsior Hotel Gallia were extremely accommodating and got us into our room several hours early.

Stroll the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and you’ll quickly understand why Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Designer boutiques line the halls, and well-heeled folks pose for photos.

Exit the arcade and enter the Piazza del Duomo. Save your photos for after dinner, when the crowds thin out. Dinner on the terrace at Giacomo Arengario will provide plenty of Duomo views, if you aren’t too distracted by the delicious Milanese cuisine.

Take the train from Milan Centrale to Verona, the city most famous for being the birthplace of Romeo and Juliet. Check in to Vista Verona, a gorgeous boutique hotel which just earned a Michelin Key. Aperitivo hour on the rooftop terrace is a great idea.

Take a walk through the cobblestone streets to the Piazza delle Erbe, where restaurants, shopping, and people-watching opportunities are abundant. Enjoy dinner at Trattoria al Pompiere, an extremely popular traditional Italian restaurant that’s tucked down a side street. Reservations are a must, as is saving room for the award-winning tiramisu.

Verona’s proximity to Venice makes for an easy day trip. The train ride is an hour and change, and you’ll arrive at the west end of the city, where you can meander your way from there.

Seafood lovers will enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Wildner Hotel. Start with a beautiful plate of baked scallops and follow with the blue crab linguini and spaghetti with clams and bottarga. Service is friendly and the water views can’t be beat.

A trip to Venice is not complete without a gondola ride. You do not have to book in advance, as there are plenty of gondoliers all over town. Expect to pay about €90 for a 30-minute ride.

Take the train to Florence, where you can pick up a rental car and head straight to the country for a few days of rest and relaxation. About 30 minutes outside of the city is a magical land called The Mall Firenze. This luxury shopping outlet features over 30 designer boutiques. Best of all? When you book with me, you’ll receive additional discounts, access to the VIP Lounge, priority entrance at specific boutiques, and more.

After a couple hours of shopping, hit the road for Saturnia, in the southwest corner of Tuscany. There, 37.5°C waters filled with minerals flow from deep below the earth’s surface, creating a natural spa.

Check in to Terme di Saturnia, which is built around a large, stunning thermal pool that serves as the centerpiece of the spa resort.

Take the opportunity to truly unwind at Terme di Saturnia, where guests wear their robes all over the grounds, including at breakfast and lunch. Spend a couple of days alternating between floating in the pool (there are plenty of pool noodles for everyone!), lazing on the chaises in the grass or in the lovely quiet spaces, and indulging in a spa treatment or two.

There’s really no need to leave, as the restaurants on-site are truly delicious, especially at dinner. 1919 Restaurant serves classic Tuscan, and La Stellata does more of the same, but with a rustic twist and a heavy emphasis on Italian meats. The tableside tiramisu does not disappoint, and the warm service will make you feel at home.

After a beautiful drive back to Florence, ditch the rental car and check in at Hotel Lungarno. Located along the Arno, the elegant hotel is a destination itself, from the Picasso hanging over the fireplace to the stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio from the outdoor terrace.

The Ferragamo family owns Hotel Lungarno, so a stay comes with excellent perks: complimentary access to the Ferragamo Museum and a discount in the Ferragamo boutique. Booking through me will also secure a $100 food and beverage credit, complimentary breakfast, and more.

Honestly, Florence could be its very own trip because there’s so much to explore. But if you only have a couple of days, make the most of your visit by wandering through the city, paying a visit to Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, trying as many different gelaterias as possible, and enjoying some excellent cuisine. Favorites from this trip: Pizzagnolo, Trattoria Sostanza, and Il Santo Bevitore.

Return to Milan by train and soak up the final hours of Italy. If you’re short on time, grab a bite (or several!) at Mercato Centrale Milano, an indoor food market at Milan Centrale that offers everything from arancini to sushi. Don’t forget to grab a few tasty souvenirs while you’re at it!