24 stunning images of northern Italy to make you marvel

updated 12/29/2021

Northern Italy looks stunning and if you need proof take a look at Kiki Deere's 24 beautiful images. The information below is taken from The Rough Guide to Italy, your travel guide for Italy.

I spent two months in northern Italy where I strolled through Turin in Piedmont and sampled wines in Langhe. I explored historic Valle d’Aosta, gazed at Mont Blanc and cruised on Lake Como to admire the Casino Royale villa.

Then, after visiting Lake Garda, I went on to marvel at the Dolomites and discover Trentino-Alto Adige. Along the way I photographed Friuli Venezia Giulia, documented the Carso and World Heritage Aquileia. Did I like northern Italy? Here are 24 photographs that say it all.

1. Barolo vineyards in northern Italy

If you're tempted by romantic Barolo, then you should consider a stay at La Rosa Gialla B&B.

2. Reggia di Venaria, near Turin

Don't miss the grand Reggia di Venaria Royal Palace set in 60 hectares of grounds just northwest of Turin.

3. Turin, one of the most famous northern Italy cities

If you want to explore Piedmont , begin in Turin, the region's most famous city and book NH Torino Santo Stefano in Turin centre.

Mole Antonelliana tower and alps, Turin, northern Italy © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

4. The emerald green waters of Lake Braies

Lake Braies is considered to be one of Italy's loveliest lakes. Famous for its bright blue-green waters, it sits right at the heart of the Dolomites. If you want to visit, think about doing a Dolomites in a day tour from Bolzano.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Italy or Italy Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Italy expert.

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5. Pordoi Pass between Mt Sella and Marmolada

To really view the Dolomites, climb up 2,950m to the legendary Pordoi Pass. It sounds daunting, but spectacular panoramas are available in minutes thanks to excellent, year-round cable cars.

6. The brightly painted streets of Limone sul Garda

Limone sul Garda is said to be the prettiest town on Lake Garda where the competition for charming lakeside communities is fierce. If you want to linger in lovely Limone sul Garda, stay at Hotel Castell.

7. Piazza Vittorio Veneto near Turin's River Po

The River Po flows through several northern Italian cities, but catch it in Turin for riverside walks, beautiful bridges and grand squares like Piazza Vittorio de Veneto. If you're inclined to hang out and explore beyond the river, stay at B&B Piazza Vittorio in Turin.

8. Limone sul Garda clings to the mountains

Wandering the quaint and colourful streets of Limone sul Garda is delightful. But if you really want to appreciate the town and its spectacular setting, take a boattour of Lake Garda and see it from the water.

9. Views of Muslone di Gargnano on Lake Garda

For the experience of waking up to Lake Garda stay at Borgo Al Tempo Perduto in the time-stood-still medieval village of Muslone. Elevated above the lake, it offers wonderful views and an air of absolute tranquillity.

10. Views from Domaso in northern Lake Como

If you want to enjoy the spring or summer weather in northern Italy, take it easy on a Lake Como electric bike tour.

11. The fairy-tale town of Nesso on Lake Como

Tucked between Bellagio and Como, Nesso might not be as famous as the neighbours but it's one of the most enchanting towns on Lake Como. Visit for a gentle atmosphere, medieval architecture, stepped streets and spectacular lake views.

12. The crystal clear western shore of Lake Garda

Get to know Garda from a local perspective and take a guided trike tour of the lake's intriguing western shore.

13. Villa del Balbianello, setting for the James Bond classic Casino Royale

If you want to see Villa del Balbianello, the glamorous setting for Casino Royale, then book a Devil's Bridge Wilderness Walk from the equally glamorous town of Bellagio on Lake Como.

Villa del Balbianello, Lake Como, northern Italy © Circumnavigation/Shutterstock

14. Lunar landscape on the Sass Pordoi, the Dolomites

15.Dolomites from Renon cable car above Bolzano

Put your head for heights to the test by soaring over the Dolomites on Bolzano's cable car.

16. Locals fishing at sunset in Trieste

The city of Trieste sits between the Adriatic coast and the border of Slovenia on the Gulf of Trieste. If you want to spend time exploring, stay at Miramare Luxury Suites on the coast.

Adriatic views in Trieste, north eastern Italy © Chechotkin/Shutterstock

17. Views of Lake Como from the small hilltop resort of Brunate

For some of the best views down Lake Como, consider staying at Hotel Paradiso in the hilltop town of Brunate.

18. The Castello di Duino overlooking the Gulf of Trieste

Visit both the old and new Castello di Duino on the Gulf of Trieste. The castles are near neighbours, surrounded by beautiful gardens and set on a clifftop which commands incredible, wide-open sea views.

19. Birds-eye view of the Dolomites from Sass Pordoi

Book Pìcola Cèsa de Sèn Nicolò. It's close to the Sass Pordoi cable car which gives you access to amazing, long-range views over the Dolomites.

20. Trekking in the area of Madonna di Campiglio

Explore the Dolomiti di Brenta in spring or summer. It's a favourite area for walking and hiking and Ambiez Residence in Madonna di Campiglio is a good base for a trekking trip.

21. Castel Tirolo high above the city of Merano

Visit Trentino in northern Italy and discover Castel Tirolo. This impressive 12th century castle gave South Tyrol its name and is now home to the South Tyrolean Museum of Cultural and Provincial History.

22. Lago di Carezza at the foot of Latemar mountain

The Dolomite's loveliest alpine lake Lago di Carezza is renowned for its vivid green waters and stunning mountain backdrop.

23. The jagged peaks of the Dolomites

High drama in northern Italy doesn't come more lofty than the mighty, jagged peaks of the world famous Dolomites. These magnificent mountains are eternally enthralling, but if you're short on time, try the Dolomites in a day guided tour.

24. Castel Toblino reflected in Lake Toblino

Known for its mild climate and lush vegetation, Lake Toblino is lovely. But its 12th century Castel Toblino that's the real attraction here. Once the summer residence of Prince-Bishop Madruzzo, the fairy-tale castle is now a restaurant, so think about booking dinner on the lake.

Ready to travel to Italy? Find out about the best time to go and the best places in Italy as well as the best things to do in Italy. For inspiration use the Italy itineraries from our Italy Travel Guides and our local travel agents in Italy. A bit more hands on, learn about getting there, getting around the country and where to stay in Italy once you are there. And don't forget to buy travel insurance before you go.

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