Northern Italy Lakes & Alps
A dreamy loop from Milan's lakes through the jagged Dolomites to the canals of Venice.
Milan → Lake Como → Lake Garda → Dolomites → Cortina → Lago di Braies → Venice
- Lake Como Ferries
- Sirmione Castle
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Lago di Braies
- Venice Canals
Day 1 · Milan to Lake Como
Pick up the car and head straight for the water. It's all about the views today.
Milan Malpensa
Grab the keys and hit the road. Skip the city center traffic.
Varenna
The most romantic spot on the lake. Walk the 'Lovers' Promenade'.
Bellagio
Take the ferry over. Pure class, great for people watching.
Day 2 · Lake Garda Vibes
Driving the western edge of Garda is a movie scene. Tunnels and blue water.
Sirmione
A castle on a peninsula. Totally touristy but totally worth it.
Limone sul Garda
Famous for lemons and the most scenic bike path in Europe.
Riva del Garda
The northern tip where the mountains finally meet the water.
Day 3 · Into the Dolomites
Leaving the palms for the pines. The scenery gets dramatic fast.
Lago di Carezza
The 'Rainbow Lake'. The Latemar mountain reflection is insane.
Pordoi Pass
2,239m up. Take the cable car to the 'Terrace of the Dolomites'.
Cortina d'Ampezzo
The posh heart of the Alps. Great for a fancy evening stroll.
Day 4 · Iconic Peaks
This is THE photo day. Charge your camera for the most famous spots.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The three peaks. Hike the loop for the best views in Italy.
Lago di Braies
The emerald lake. Rent a wooden boat for the classic shot.
San Candido
Charming border town. Perfect for a chill final mountain night.
Day 5 · Mountains to Venice
Descending from the peaks to the lagoons. Drop the car and get on a boat.
Prosecco Hills
Quick stop in the rolling vineyards for some bubbly views.
Venice Piazzale Roma
Car drop-off point. Say goodbye to wheels, hello to water.
St. Mark's Square
The drawing room of Europe. Magical as the day-trippers leave.
- ZTL zones in cities are ticket traps—watch the signs!
- Book Lago di Braies parking in advance
- Mountain passes can still have snow in early May