August, 2019
somewherenice.blog
Ultimate Northern Italy and Southern France Itinerary
This itinerary will take you through some of the most beautiful destinations in Europe. You'll start your journey in Venice, Italy and make your way south to the breathtaking Ligurian Coast. From there, you'll hop over to France and explore the chic cafes and luxury shopping of Cannes and Nice. After that, your journey will come to Marseille, where you'll explore the lively markets and colorful streets. Then, you'll journey further into the south of France and discover the gorgeous landscapes of Provence, stopping in charming towns, followed by a visit to the stunning walled city of Carcassonne. From there, take a tour of Bordeaux's exquisite wine region before heading to Paris to take in the breathtaking architecture. This amazing itinerary offers the perfect blend of classic French and Italian culture, breathtaking views, and luxurious shopping.
Highlights
Venice, Burano and Lido
Venice is a destination full of iconic landmarks and breathtaking scenery. A must-see is Piazza San Marco, with its Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the iconic Bell Tower. For a different view of Venice, don't miss a daytrip to Lido, which is known for its beaches, or the colorful village of Burano. Lido offers tranquil beaches and peaceful walks along the canal, while Burano is a small fishing island full of colorful homes and delicious seafood restaurants.
Verona
The historic center of Verona is home to the iconic Piazza delle Erbe and Juliet's Balcony, a romantic landmark inspired by Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. For stunning views of the city, visitors can climb the 137 steps of the Torre dei Lamberti or explore the Giardino Giusti, an Italian Renaissance garden. Culture buffs should take time to explore the Castelvecchio, a medieval castle with art and historical artifacts from the Scaligeri dynasty, or catch a performance at the famous Arena di Verona.
Lake Garda: Sirmione
Sirmione is a charming lakeside town, perfect for a daytrip, with its picturesque promenade, a historic castle, and thermal baths. Lake Garda is a stunning alpine lake with a Mediterranean atmosphere and you can take boat trips from Sirmione to explore the lake and take in its stunning views. You can visit the Catullo Caves or take a guided tour of the medieval Scaligero Castle.
Milan
From the historical Duomo di Milano, the gothic cathedral in the center of the city, to the iconic La Scala opera house, the city has a wealth of attractions for tourists to enjoy. Art enthusiasts should be sure to check out the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of the most renowned art galleries in Italy, while fashion fans will love to explore the designer boutiques and outlets of Via Montenapoleone. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant parks and gardens that offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Lake Como: Bellagio and Varenna
Lake Como is an idyllic spot for vacationers seeking a serene and peaceful retreat. The picturesque lakeside towns of Bellagio and Varenna provide visitors with two distinct experiences; Bellagio, the Pearl of the Lake, is an elegant town of winding cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and breathtaking villas. Varenna, on the other hand, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous hiking trails, with stunning views of the lake from its nearby mountains.
Turin
Turin is a city full of sights and activities to enjoy. Make sure to check out the stunning Piazza San Carlo, marvel at the interior of the Basilica di Superga, and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at one of the city's renowned coffee shops. And if you're feeling adventurous, head to one of the nearby mountains for some outdoor fun. With so much to see and do, Turin is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Genova
The historical centre of the city, featuring landmarks such as the Aquarium of Genova, Piazza De Ferrari, and Palazzo Ducale, is an ideal spot for visitors to explore the local culture and traditions. Additionally, for a more in-depth look into the area's rich maritime history, visitors can explore the numerous ancient ships housed in the Galata Museo del Mare. Those interested in outdoor activities will enjoy a hike to the summit of Mount Antola, or taking in the breathtaking views from the medieval Castello d'Albertis.
Ligurian Coast: Portofino
With picturesque towns like the vibrant Portofino and charming fishing villages such as Camogli, it's easy to find a place that captures the essence of the area. With its pastel-colored houses, rocky shores, and picturesque marinas, Portofino is the crown jewel of the region. For those who enjoy a good beach day, the resorts along the Riviera have plenty of public and private beaches, from secluded spots to lively beach clubs. If you're looking for an adventure, take a hike in the hills or explore the caves that dot the coast.
French Riviera: Nice, Cannes and St. Tropez
The French Riviera is a stunning stretch of coastline that is home to some of the most beautiful and luxurious locations in the world. Nice is a vibrant and culturally-rich city with its cobblestone streets, markets, and centuries-old architecture, while Cannes offers luxury shopping and famous film festivals. St. Tropez, a playground for the rich and famous, is known for its turquoise waters and world-renowned beaches.
Monaco
From its Mediterranean coastlines and towering cliffs to its sophisticated cuisine and cosmopolitan flair, Monaco is truly one-of-a-kind. Not to mention, its glimmering casinos, world-renowned Formula 1 track, and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect spot for luxury seekers. With its beautiful weather, picturesque views, and unforgettable experiences, Monaco is sure to make your vacation one to remember.
Marseille
Marseille is an incredible city, full of fascinating history and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can explore the bustling markets of the Vieux-Port and admire the unique architecture of the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica. There are plenty of incredible sights to take in, including the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, the breathtaking Cathedrale de la Major, and the historic Abbey of Saint Victor. Be sure to also spend some time taking in the vibrant nightlife, as Marseille is home to many of France's most exciting clubs and restaurants.
Provence: Arles
A visit to Arles, located in the Provence region of France, is a great way to immerse oneself in the area's rich culture and unique charm. From the beautiful architecture to the iconic, ancient Roman ruins, Arles offers visitors an abundance of attractions. Visit the magnificent Cathedral of St. Trophime and the Provençal markets filled with colorful regional delicacies. Spend an evening at one of the vibrant open-air cafes, marvel at the extraordinary works of Van Gogh, and don’t forget to sample the local olive oil.
Carcassonne
From its ancient fortress walls and buildings to its winding cobblestone streets and rich cultural heritage, Carcassonne is an enchanting destination that is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Stroll along the picturesque canals and enjoy the panoramic views of the rolling countryside. Indulge in some of the best French cuisine the region has to offer, explore the remarkable history, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this fascinating city. A visit to Carcassonne is a once in a lifetime opportunity that you won't soon forget.
Bordeaux and Arcachon Bay
A day spent exploring the region should definitely include a visit to Arcachon Bay and the iconic Dune Pilat. Arcachon Bay is a picturesque lagoon where visitors can enjoy beach activities and views of the Bassin d’Arcachon. The largest sand dune in Europe, Dune Pilat, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as plenty of space for a picnic or beach day.
Paris
Paris is a truly unique city, with a range of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. Paris is also known for its incredible dining scene, where visitors can enjoy classic French cuisine as well as innovative fusion dishes. Additionally, Paris is full of lively outdoor markets, chic boutiques, and tranquil parks. Whether you're looking for culture, shopping, or just some relaxation, Paris is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Tricks and tips
Buy all train and ferry tickets in advance
It is highly recommended that all train and ferry tickets are purchased in advance. This is especially important to avoid disappointment, as tickets tend to sell out quickly due to high demand. Pre-booking your tickets ensures you are guaranteed a seat on your chosen date, and it also gives you the opportunity to secure the best price possible.
Explore small towns nearby for cheap stay
Not only will this give you the chance to enjoy the quieter side of the region, but it can also be a much cheaper alternative to staying in the bustling city center. Not to mention, these quaint towns usually come with some unique local attractions that you may not have experienced otherwise.
Sample local cuisine and specialties
From the exquisite dishes to the handmade crafts, these regions offer a wealth of flavors and textures to explore. With the range of food from classic Italian favorites like pasta and pizza to unique Provencal delicacies like socca and tapenade, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Itinerary
Days 1-2: Venice | Arrival
Explore the canals of the city, visit the colorful island of Burano or relax on Lido's beautiful beaches.
Day 3: Verona + Lake Garda
Visiting Verona is a great opportunity to explore the surrounding area, including the popular Lake Garda. Sirmione offers stunning views, a historical castle, and many lovely restaurants.
Day 4: Milan + Lake Como
Varenna and Bellagio are among the most popular destinations on Lake Como. Both are easily accessible from Milan by train and offer stunning views of the lake and nearby mountains.
--- Bonus day: Turin ---
From Milan you can either go straight to Genova or stop by Turin. There are countless boutiques, galleries and stores. Take in the stunning mountain views and enjoy excellent local restaurants.
Day 5: Genova + Liguria
From Genova you can easily visit charming coastal villages like Portofino and Sestri Levante, or cultural attractions such as the Cinque Terre. Take a boat ride to Palmaria Island for a picnic lunch and stunning views of the coastline.
Days 6-8: Cote d'Azur
While it can be hard to narrow down your choices, there are a few places you won't want to miss. Consider visiting Nice and Cannes for their gorgeous seaside views and world-class museums. Take a day trip to Monaco or Saint Tropez for its bustling life and high-end boutiques.
Day 9: Marseille
Take in the views from Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica or take a boat tour around the calanques, the limestone cliffs and inlets that dot the coast. Explore the area's many art galleries, or head to the Old Port to find shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. Marseille also boasts many unique museums, such as the MuCEM, which celebrates the cultures of the Mediterranean.
Day 10: Provence
The area is home to some of the country's most famous art, cuisine, and crafts. The cities of Arles, Nimes, and Avignon offer a glimpse into what the region has to offer. Explore museums and galleries, sample the unique flavors of local cuisine, and experience the handmade crafts.
Day 11: Carcassonne
A visit to Carcassonne is an opportunity to immerse yourself in French culture and history, but it’s not all about sightseeing; be sure to try the local specialty of cassoulet.
Day 12: Bordeaux + Arcachon Bay
Take a day trip from Bordeaux to Arcachon and the Dune of Pilat, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Marvel at the impressive height of the dune and spend some time walking around and exploring its fascinating ecosystem.
Days 13-14: Paris | Departure
When planning your departure flight, consider a stopover in Paris as an opportunity to explore the city. From Bordeaux, you can either arrive by train or plane and take a few days to recharge after a long trip.
Final thoughts
Who is this itinerary for
This intense two-week itinerary offers an introduction to what the area has to offer. This incredible journey will take you through the history and beauty of the region, while giving you a glimpse into the many unique and breathtaking landscapes that can be found in this part of the world. After experiencing all this, take some time to reflect and decide which places you'd like to revisit in the future for a more relaxed and leisurely vacation.
What would I've done differently
During my trip, I relied heavily on local trains and buses, however I quickly found out that tickets often sold out half a day before departure. Renting a car is a great way to have more flexibility during your journey, but if you're going to be taking public transportation, I highly recommend that you purchase tickets in advance even for regional trips. Planning ahead will make for a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
Overall impression
So far, this trip has been my favorite, as it has taken me to some of the most beautiful and amazing locations in Europe. Take an adventure of a lifetime as you explore the beautiful Mediterranean Coast, majestic Alps' Lakes, and get a glimpse of the stunning Atlantic Coast. The places are so different from each other, yet so beautiful in their own ways. With the amazing food and crafts that Italy and France have to offer, you're sure to have a truly unforgettable experience. From the awe-inspiring architecture of ancient cities to the vibrant culture of the local markets, it's an experience like no other.
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