Multi-hued: Cinque Terre is a colourful coastal area within the Liguria region, northwest Italy. Photos: Supplied.
Rich history, art and culture, spectacular landscapes, vibrant cities and culinary delights are but a few of the highlights of travel in Italy. Hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics has placed the focus on more than just Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, and brought with it a whole new perspective to travelling in the north.
This year’s Olympics have marked a significant event in history, being co-hosted by two cities for the first time. There you go. This is when the dial on the curiosity factor gets tuned, especially for travel enthusiasts. The inquisitive mind begins to work with those “what if” and “why not” questions – always seeking, always reaching.
The warmth and hospitality of the Italian people enhanced my travel experiences, engaging with locals, learning about their customs, and participating in local events that provided deeper insights into the Italian way of life. Meandering through lively markets and participating in traditional festivals were a delight. I found saying a friendly “Ciao”, “Buon giorno” and “Grazie” – with a smile – went a long way!
Emphasising Italy’s extraordinary historical and cultural heritage, politician Matteo Renzi rightly noted: “Italy will never be a normal country. Because Italy is Italy. If we were a normal country, we wouldn’t have Rome. We wouldn’t have Florence. We wouldn’t have the marvel that is Venice.”
New data from Visa Consulting & Analytics shows there was a 160 per cent surge in flight bookings and ticket purchases for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. According to Visa’s senior vice-president, global sponsorship and experiential marketing Andrea Fairchild, the enthusiasm and anticipation had begun long before the event.
“… The journey has already begun — not just for athletes, but for the fans, travellers and small businesses getting ready to be a part of something unforgettable,” Ms Fairchild said.
“The uptick in travel reflects more than demand — it shows how the Games inspire connection, opportunity and shared excitement long before the first event begins.”
Famous: The Milan Cathedral, or Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of the Nativity of Saint Mary, is the cathedral church of Milan, in Italy’s Lombardy region.
Northern Italy is often overlooked by tourists, though not entirely. Exploring is a journey through time, taste and beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to encounter the quintessence of Italy. With ancient ruins and monuments, Italy is a history lover’s paradise.
Offering a unique experience, the cities are home to world-class museums, brimming with ethos, aesthetic and antiquity, stunning architecture and energetic festivals that celebrate the country’s abundant culinary traditions.
Italia Settentrionale offers a diverse range of holiday destinations, from splendid lakes and mountains to historic cities and charming coastal towns. Here are a few.
Cinque Terre is a colourful UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of five ancient fishing villages, perched high on the Italian Riviera just south of Genoa in northwest Italy. Its renowned paths are just right to test fitness for hiking, perfect for swimming and ideal for savouring local seafood.
Lake Como, surrounded by the alps, is famous for its picturesque towns such as Bellagio and Varenna. As the fashion capital, Milan boasts the impressive Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper painting.
Venice, built on a series of small islands connected by iconic canals and bridges, is a photographer’s paradise! There’s fascination with its labyrinth of canals, its multi-hued, disintegrating facades and silently drifting gondolas. This city of water is a must-visit for its distinctive architecture, art, St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, La Scala Opera House, as well as opportunities to learn about local traditions and crafts, such as glassblowing.
Picturesque: Surrounded by the alps, Lake Como is famous for its scenic towns like Bellagio and Varenna.
Head to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Leaning Tower of Pisa, a medieval structure famous for the settling of its foundations, which by the late 20th century had caused it to lean about 4.5 metres from the perpendicular. I couldn’t resist getting that classic “Here’s me holding up the tower” shot!
Renowned for its delectable culinary heritage, Bologna is home to the oldest university in the world. Explore its medieval architecture and indulge in local dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù. Turin offers attractions like the Mole Antonelliana and the Royal Palace.
Verona, famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, features a well-preserved Roman arena and charming streets filled with history and romance. The historic port city of Trieste offers a blend of Italian, Slovenian and Austro-Hungarian influences.
The Dolomites mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend a full day exploring Florence — the city of the Renaissance and the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region — and discover the gorgeous Duomo, and Michelangelo’s David.
American actor Mariska Hargitay provides valuable perspective: “Italian culture is so deeply soaked in an appreciation of the good things in life.”
An unforgettable journey — now that’s amore!
