You know those trips that you dream about for years, pin to a hundred Pinterest boards, and then change your mind about… like four different times? Yep—that was Northern Italy for me.

After nearly a year of planning (and re-planning), I finally settled on an itinerary that turned out to be everything. And I mean it—the weather was stunning, the views were breathtaking, and every single day felt like a little slice of Italian magic.

Northern Italy April 25-May 7, 2025: The Recap

After nearly a year of planning (and re-planning), I finally locked in an itinerary—and I have to say, I was so happy with all my decisions! I must have changed course about four times on which cities to visit, which resorts to stay at, how long to stay in each city – it was a bit overwhelming, honestly. If I could go back and change one thing, it would be to have stayed one or two more nights in Tuscany! Other than that, it really was a bucket list type of trip and a great way to celebrate our 19th wedding anniversary!

Venice (4 nights): The Starting Point
Once we landed in Venice we checked into Baglioni Hotel Luna. That first evening was all about wandering the canals, fighting off jet lag, and soaking it all in. To be honest, I had the most anxiety about Venice because everyone who I asked about it, either loved it or hated it, so I just didn’t really know what to expect. I have to say, if I had one word to describe it, I would say “ENCHANTING”! I think the time of year, weather, and where we stayed had everything to do it. We had the most beautiful 70-75 degree weather, clear skies, no smells. Something about the twinkling of lights in a city that floats in water, in a gorgeous wooden boat, light wind in the air and that gorgeous sunset color glow that was… well, enchanting! Isaac absolutely LOVED it, I LOVED it, we’d go back. We spent a total of four nights and it was just the right amount of time because of our Lake Garda day trip. The only bummer, which turned into a plus, was that our Venice city food tour fell through (tour guy got sick), so, I decided to book us a 7-course Michelin and Green star restaurant (Venissa) dinner on the tiny island of Mazzorbo and it didn’t disappoint!

Lake Garda: Quick Trip, Big Views
To break things up a bit from the canals, I considered a day trip to the Dolomites, but I’m so glad I pivoted and chose Lake Garda instead. I’d originally planned on Lake Como, but it didn’t quite fit with our itinerary. Funny enough, it was while researching Como that I stumbled across Lake Garda—and I’m so glad I did. Just 90 minutes from Venice by high-speed train to Desenzano del Garda, and suddenly the whole vibe changed: relaxed, sunny, and full of postcard-perfect views. We rented a boat for the afternoon, soaked it all in, and then made our way back to Venice for one last night before heading south. Quick turnaround, totally worth it.

Florence (4 nights): Pasta, Markets, and Ancient Views
Florence was definitely an adjustment. After a two-hour high-speed train from Venice, it took me a solid 24 hours to get used to the hustle, bustle, and tourist crowds. We stayed at Hotel Palazzo Firenze (part of the same Baglioni brand we loved in Venice). It was tucked away just enough to feel off the beaten path, but still walkable to everything.

We jumped right into exploring and decided to try our luck again with a food tour—this time using the With Locals app, and let me tell you… Giorgio was a 10/10! It ended up being the best thing we did in Florence. He was so knowledgeable, took us to incredible spots we never would’ve found on our own, and gave us a fun, digestible take on the city’s history.

To be honest, I’m not a history buff—it kind of bores me. And while Isaac loves history, he’s not big into museums or art (which Florence is kinda known for). So no, we didn’t see The David or step foot into a single museum—and we have zero regrets. Just not our thing.

What is my thing? Michelin star restaurants and spa days. 😏 I had The Four Seasons booked twice throughout the year before I finally came to my senses and realized $2,000 a night could be better spent elsewhere (LOL). But I did splurge on dinner at the Four Seasons’ Michelin-starred Il Palagio for our 19th wedding anniversary—after a spa day there, of course. It was the perfect compromise (at least in my mind 😂).

We also took a homemade pasta class with a local chef (unlimited wine included 🍷), and ate more gelato than I care to admit.

We definitely enjoyed our time in Florence… but we wouldn’t go back.

Tuscany (3 nights): Slow Days and Wine Country
I describe Tuscany as “Napa Valley on steroids”—no joke! We stayed at the stunning Castello di Casole, a Belmond Hotel, an actual castle-turned-hotel nestled among rolling hills and vineyards. Isaac said it gives my beloved Four Seasons a run for its money… and while I could have taken offense, he wasn’t totally wrong!

It was the perfect way to end our trip: slow mornings, spa time, and an incredible lunch and wine tasting at Castello di Ama—even if it was pouring rain and I got carsick (of course 🙃).

Isaac had one request for this trip: rent a car so he could drive through Tuscany. Even though our resort package included Mercedes E-Class transportation from Venice to the resort, I made sure we got a two-day car rental once we arrived. And honestly? Cruising through the Tuscan countryside in a rented Tiguan with the windows down and music up… core memory. We’d go back to Tuscany!!

The Wrap-Up
This Northern Italy trip was everything I hoped it would be—and honestly, I couldn’t have planned it better if I tried (which, let’s be honest, I did, for months). From Venice’s water boat charm to Florence’s buzzing markets and Tuscany’s peaceful countryside, every moment reminded me why I love to travel so much.

If you’re dreaming up your honeymoon or just craving a romantic escape, Northern Italy checks all the boxes: amazing food, rich history, charming streets, and just enough adventure to keep it interesting.

Have questions about any of the places we visited? Let’s chat—I love sharing travel tips almost as much as I love Pistacchio gelato. 🇮🇹✨

Here are a few pictures I was able to capture!