Embark on an 8-day cultural and scenic adventure across Northern Italy, discovering the vibrant cities of Milan, Verona, and Venice, alongside the majestic Dolomites and tranquil Lake Como. This moderately-paced journey offers a rich blend of cultural sites, museums, nature walks, and local markets, perfect for photography enthusiasts and those seeking authentic experiences. Indulge in local cuisine and relax in charming cafes, ensuring a comfortable and enriching trip with a mix of walking and public transport.

Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) after your flight from Bangkok.
Clear customs and immigration.
Ensure you have your passport and any necessary visa documents ready. Check for baggage claim information.
Enjoy a comfortable private transfer from Malpensa Airport to Milan's main train station, Milano Centrale.
Your driver will meet you in the arrivals area.
This pre-booked transfer ensures a smooth journey into the city.
Take a high-speed train from Milano Centrale to Verona Porta Nuova, a journey offering scenic views of the Italian countryside.
Trains run frequently; booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for faster services like Frecciarossa or Italo.
Arrive at your hotel in Verona, check-in, and refresh after your travels.
Enjoy an evening walk around Piazza Bra, Verona's largest piazza, home to the magnificent Arena di Verona.
The Arena is beautifully lit at night, offering great photo opportunities. Many restaurants line the piazza.
Savor your first Italian dinner in Verona, trying local dishes like 'Pastissada de caval' or 'Risotto all'Amarone'.
Visit the famous balcony of Juliet's House and the bronze statue in the courtyard.
Leave a love note on the wall.
Can get crowded; arrive early if you wish to enter the house (small entrance fee).
Explore Piazza delle Erbe, the ancient Roman forum and now a vibrant market square surrounded by historic buildings and frescoes.
Pick up your pre-booked rental car in Verona for your journey into the Dolomites.
Ensure you have an international driving permit, your driving license, and credit card for deposit. Check the car thoroughly before leaving.
Begin your picturesque drive from Verona into the heart of the Dolomites, heading towards a base like Val Gardena or Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Enjoy the changing landscapes.
The roads are well-maintained but can be winding. Take breaks to enjoy the views.
Arrive at your chosen accommodation in the Dolomites (e.
g., Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena, or Cortina d'Ampezzo) and settle in.
Relax at your hotel, take a short stroll around the village, and soak in the breathtaking mountain scenery.
Enjoy the fresh alpine air.
Indulge in a traditional Ladin dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like canederli (dumplings) or speck.
Take the cable car from Ortisei up to Seceda.
Hike along the stunning ridgeline, famous for its dramatic peaks and lush green meadows.
Wear appropriate hiking shoes and layers. The views from Seceda are iconic. Grab a coffee or snack at a mountain hut.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a 'rifugio' (mountain hut) on Seceda, savoring local specialties while surrounded by incredible views.
Descend back to Ortisei and spend the afternoon exploring this charming village, known for its wooden sculptures and artisan shops.
Enjoy a traditional Italian aperitivo with drinks and light snacks at a local bar in Ortisei.
Enjoy another delightful dinner in Ortisei, perhaps trying a different local restaurant.
Embark on a scenic drive to Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee), one of the most stunning lakes in the Dolomites, known for its emerald green waters and dramatic backdrop.
Parking can be challenging, especially in peak season. Arriving early is best. There might be a parking fee.
Walk around the pristine lake, rent a rowboat, and capture incredible photographs of the iconic boathouse and surrounding mountains.
Boats are available for rent on an hourly basis. The full loop walk around the lake takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Enjoy lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants near Lago di Braies, offering local dishes with stunning views.
Take a scenic drive over one of the famous Dolomite passes, such as Passo Gardena or Passo Sella, stopping at viewpoints for panoramic vistas.
These passes offer some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Dolomites. Be prepared for winding roads and potential brief stops for photos.
Return to your accommodation and relax, perhaps enjoying a drink on a terrace with mountain views, or exploring more of your local village.
Enjoy a final dinner in the Dolomites, savoring the unique alpine cuisine.
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and a final morning taking in the majestic surroundings of the Dolomites before starting your journey.
Drive back from the Dolomites to Verona to return your rental car.
Allow extra time for potential traffic or unexpected stops for photos.
Drop off your rental car at the Verona car rental office.
Ensure the car is returned with the agreed fuel level to avoid extra charges.
Grab a quick and delicious lunch in Verona before heading to the train station for Venice.
Take a high-speed train from Verona Porta Nuova to Venezia Santa Lucia, which takes you directly into the heart of Venice.
Sit on the right side of the train for early glimpses of the Venetian Lagoon.
Arrive at your hotel in Venice.
Depending on its location, you might take a vaporetto (water bus) or walk from the train station.
Begin your Venice exploration with an evening walk through the labyrinthine streets towards the iconic Rialto Bridge, enjoying the magical atmosphere.
Venice is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes.
Enjoy your first dinner in Venice, perhaps trying traditional seafood dishes or cichetti (Venetian tapas).
Enjoy a classic Venetian gondola ride through the picturesque canals, offering unique perspectives of the city's architecture and hidden gems.
Agree on the price before boarding. Gondola rides typically cost more in the evening. A gondola can seat up to 5 people.
Stroll across the iconic Rialto Bridge for panoramic views of the Grand Canal and explore the vibrant Rialto Market area.
The market is a great spot for fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Be mindful of crowds.
Enjoy a final Venetian lunch, perhaps trying some traditional cicchetti (small snacks) or seafood pasta.
Look for restaurants away from the main tourist hubs for better value and authenticity.
Take a high-speed train from Venice Santa Lucia to Milan Centrale, a comfortable and efficient way to travel between cities.
Trains are frequent. Book tickets in advance for better prices and seat selection. Consider 'Frecciarossa' or 'Italo' for high-speed service.
Check into your accommodation in Milan and unwind after your journey.
Enjoy an evening meal in the charming Brera district, known for its artistic atmosphere and excellent restaurants.
The Brera district offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional trattorias to trendy cafes.
Take a scenic train ride from Milan Centrale to Varenna-Esino, a charming town on Lake Como.
The journey offers beautiful views.
Trains are direct and frequent. Varenna is a great starting point for exploring the central lake area.
Wander through the picturesque streets of Varenna, visit Villa Monastero's botanical gardens, and enjoy the waterfront.
Villa Monastero (Google Places) has beautiful gardens and a house museum. Consider a ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio from here.
Discover a different side of Lake Como on a panoramic hiking tour, offering stunning views away from crowded viewpoints.
Tailored for those wanting more than just boat rides.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The tour is guided and provides unique perspectives of the lake.
Enjoy a well-deserved late lunch at a restaurant in Varenna, perhaps with lake views, after your hike.
Take the train back to Milan Centrale from Varenna-Esino.
Dine at a restaurant conveniently located near Milan Centrale station, offering a variety of cuisines.
Embark on a private walking tour of Milan's cultural treasures, visiting Castello Sforzesco, the Duomo exterior, and enjoying a gelato tasting with a local guide.
This tour provides an excellent overview of Milan's key landmarks and includes a delicious gelato experience.
Walk through the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's oldest active shopping mall, and have a light lunch or snack nearby.
Take a pre-booked taxi or private transfer service from your hotel to Milan Malpensa (MXP) Airport, ensuring a comfortable and punctual journey for your flight.
Allow ample time for travel to the airport, especially during peak hours. Confirmed flight departs at 16:00, so arriving 2-3 hours prior is recommended.
Check in for your flight back to Bangkok (BKK) from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).
This 8-day itinerary for Italy (Milan, Verona, Dolomites, Venice) can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.