With Italy celebrating its 150th anniversary of statehood, there’s no better time to visit the country. Beyond the obvious historical, cultural and artistic allure, each region pulses with its own vibrant essence beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in the splendor that is Italy.
Northern Italy’s riches are vast, varied, and yours to discover, from art-packed museums and mosaic-filled cathedrals to Roman ruins and hill towns amid vineyards that produce some of Europe’s best wines. Here’s a short list of the best of what northern Italy has to offer.
Piedmont
The old home of the Italian kings and the springboard for national unification, the Piedmont region should be visited not only for its historical significance but for the amazing wineries, gourmet chocolates, scenic countryside, and fantastic ski slopes including Torino, the site of the 2006 Winter Olympics. Don’t miss the La Venaria Reale (summer residence of the Kings of Italy).
Liguria
The Cinque Terre – A fantasy-fulfilling stretch of the fabled Riviera, the five villages connected by the Via dell’Amore, capture the essence of this picturesque region that features the iconic beauty of Portofino. The capital, Genoa was once the disputed maritime power in the Mediterranean, so there’s no better way to experience Liguria than to discover it from the sea.
Lombardy
Two regions within Lombardy offer distinct but delightful Italian experiences. The ethereal beauty of Lake Como beckons you dive into its pleasure. If you want to do Lake Como in style, then choose Casta Diva, the luxury resort you’ve never heard about. For an urban experience, Milano, the capital of style, fashion and design is also becoming a vibrant, international destination with top notch art, music, shopping.
Veneto
The world’s most famous lagoon, Venice is also the epitome of romance and a perfect family destination. This juncture of wonderful contradictions gives travelers a go-to romantic, sensual destination plus a tremendous educational potential for children of all ages with an accessible, walking city map that hasn’t’ changed in almost 400 years. Take the requisite Gondola ride, but also head out to the country to visit the Palladian villas.