Five of the best holiday destinations in Italy for 2024
Italy is a dream destination for travellers worldwide, offering a balanced mix of history, culture and scenery. Whether your vice is art, architecture, fashion or food, Italy has each in abundance.
With summer in reaching distance, it’s the perfect time to plan your Italian getaway.
In this blog, we’ll explore five of the best holiday destinations in Italy for 2024: Milan, Bergamo, Turin, Treviso, and Venice. Each city offers unique experiences that showcase the best of Italian culture and scenery.
Get ready to discover your dream 2024 summer holiday!
Discover Italy’s Top Holiday Spots for 2024
Italy is brimming with incredible places to visit, each with its own personality and charm. There’s almost too much choice to pick a destination with ease, so we’re hoping to make that decision a bit easier for you.
From the bustle of Milan to the iconic canals of Venice, these cities offer something for everybody. Let’s dive into what makes each of these Italian gems so special and why they should be on your travel radar.
Milan: The Fashion and Design Capital
Cultural Highlights
Milan is renowned as a global fashion and design hub, but its culture is equally impressive. Start your holiday with a visit to the iconic Duomo di Milano, a stunning Gothic cathedral that’s prominent in the city’s skyline. We recommend booking entry tickets for the Duomo di Milano in advance.
Don’t miss Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. For a sophisticated evening, catch a performance at the legendary La Scala Opera House.
Modern Attractions
While Milan’s historical sites are a must-see, its modern attractions are just as intriguing. Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century shopping arcade filled with luxury brands and elegant cafes. For the ultimate shopping experience, head to Via Montenapoleone, Milan’s high-end fashion street, where you can find the latest trends from top designers.
Local Experiences
Immerse yourself in Milanese life by exploring its quirky neighbourhoods and sampling local cuisine. Sip a cappuccino at one of the trendy cafes in Brera, or indulge in a traditional aperitivo in the Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals and lively atmosphere. If you’re a lover of Campari in particular, Camparino in Galleria is your go-to, serving the Milanese crowd with impeccable Campari Sodas since the early 1900’s. Don’t forget to try classic dishes like risotto alla Milanese and cotoletta alla Milanese for a true taste of Milan.
Travel tip: Transfers from Milan Malpensa Airport to the city centre will take approximately 45 minutes, and transfers to Milan city from Milan Linate Airport take approximately 30 minutes.
Bergamo: A Hidden Gem in Lombardy
Historical Splendour
Sat in the Lombardy region, Bergamo is often overshadowed by its more “world” famous neighbours, but this hidden gem is packed with charm.
The city is divided into two parts: the modern Città Bassa (Lower Town) and the mediaeval Città Alta (Upper Town). Start your visit in Città Alta, where you can stroll cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture. Don’t miss the Piazza Vecchia, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings, and the awe-inspiring Bergamo Cathedral.
Scenic Landscapes
Bergamo offers some Italy’s most picturesque views. Take the funicular from Città Bassa to Città Alta and enjoy the panoramic vistas of rolling hills and the city below. The surrounding countryside is perfect for a leisurely hike or a scenic drive. Be sure to visit the nearby Parco dei Colli, a regional park that offers tranquil walking paths and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Cultural Experiences
Bergamo is not just about stunning landscapes and historical sites; it’s also a hub of cultural activity. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Bergamo Film Meeting and the Donizetti Opera Festival, celebrating the works of the famed composer Gaetano Donizetti. When it comes to food, Bergamo doesn’t disappoint. Indulge in local specialties like casoncelli (stuffed pasta) and polenta taragna at traditional trattorias. For a sweet treat, try the local dessert, Polenta e Osei, a delightful cake that reflects the city’s culinary heritage.
Travel tip: transfers to Bergamo are quick and easy! It will take approximately 15 minutes to get from Milan Orio to Bergamo centre.
Turin: A Blend of History and Modernity
Historical Attractions
Turin, the capital of the Piedmont region, is a city where history and modernity coexist. Start your exploration with the Mole Antonelliana, a towering structure that houses the National Museum of Cinema and offers unmatched city views.
Visit the Palazzo Reale, a stunning royal palace that showcases the opulence of the House of Savoy. Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the most extensive collections of Egyptian antiquities outside of Cairo.
Modern Vibes
Turin is a city that embraces contemporary culture and innovation. The city’s modern art scene is thriving, with places like the Castello di Rivoli Museum of Contemporary Art leading the way.
Turin’s nightlife is vibrant, with trendy bars and clubs scattered throughout the city. The Quadrilatero Romano district is particularly popular for its lively atmosphere and diverse dining options, ranging from traditional Italian trattorias to chic modern eateries.
Local Flavours
No visit to Turin is complete without indulgence. The city is famous for its chocolate, especially the gianduiotto, a creamy blend of chocolate and hazelnuts. Stop by one of Turin’s historic cafes, like Caffè Torino or Caffè San Carlo, for a hot chocolate or bicerin, a traditional drink made with espresso, chocolate, and cream. Explore local markets such as Mercato di Porta Palazzo, Europe’s largest open-air market, to sample fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional specialties.
Treviso: The Quintessential Italian Town
Charming Streets and Canals
Treviso, often overshadowed by its famous neighbour Venice, embodies the charm of a quintessential Italian town. Known for its winding canals, mediaeval walls, and narrow cobblestone streets, Treviso offers a quaint setting for a leisurely stroll.
Start at the heart of the city, Piazza dei Signori, a lively square surrounded by historic buildings and cafes. From there, explore the serene canals and admire the beautiful frescoed facades that add to Treviso’s unique charm.
Artistic Heritage
Treviso boasts a rich artistic and architectural heritage. Visit the Treviso Cathedral, which features stunning frescoes and an impressive crypt. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museo di Santa Caterina, housed in a former convent, which showcases a wide range of artworks from the Middle Ages to the modern era. The city’s historic buildings and elegant churches provide a backdrop that’s both culturally enriching and visually captivating.
Wine and Dine
Treviso is also renowned for its culinary scene, particularly its wine. The city is located in the heart of the Prosecco region, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers. Take a short trip to the nearby vineyards to sample some of the finest Prosecco in the world. In town, indulge in local dishes such as radicchio trevigiano, a unique type of chicory native to the area, and bigoli in salsa, a traditional pasta dish. The local osterias and trattorias offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal with a glass of local wine.
Travel tip: Transfers from Torino Airport to Turin take approximately 30 minutes.
Venice: The City of Canals
Iconic Landmarks
Venice, known for its canals and architecture, is a must-visit destination on any Italian holiday itinerary. Start your trip at St. Mark’s Square, the city’s main public square, and visit St. Mark’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Nearby, the Doge’s Palace offers a glimpse into the opulent history of the Venetian Republic. Don’t forget to walk across the Rialto Bridge, one of the oldest and most famous bridges spanning the Grand Canal, offering iconic views of Venice’s bustling waterways.
Unique Experiences
Venice is a city of unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Take a traditional gondola ride through the labyrinthine canals for a romantic and quintessential Venetian experience. Explore the Venetian Lagoon and visit the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano is famous for its glass-blowing workshops, Burano for its colourful houses and lace-making tradition, and Torcello for its ancient churches and tranquil atmosphere.
Local Culture
Immerse yourself in Venice’s rich local culture by participating in its many festivals and traditions. If you’re visiting in February, the Venice Carnival is a spectacular event featuring elaborate masks and costumes, parades, and festivities. Throughout the year, various cultural events, art exhibitions, and music festivals keep the city vibrant and lively. When it comes to cuisine, Venice offers a unique blend of flavours, in dishes like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce) at local bacari (wine bars). Don’t miss trying a spritz, Venice’s signature cocktail, as you unwind by the canal.
Travel tip: Airport transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the centre take roughly 15 minutes.
Italy is a land of diverse experiences, and these five destinations—Milan, Bergamo, Turin, Treviso, and Venice—highlight the country’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and beauty.
Each city offers its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences, making them top holiday destinations in Italy for 2024. Whether you’re drawn to the fashionable streets of Milan, the history of Bergamo, the culturally rich Turin, the quintessential charm of Treviso, or the iconic beauty of Venice, you’re sure to create lasting memories.
Start planning your Italian adventure today and get ready to explore these incredible cities. Simplify your travel with Alps2Alps.
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