Job Discussion Forums

[saren]

I'd like to hear suggestions on how to spend 5 weeks in Northern Italy?

I'm flying into Milan just before X-mas, and leaving (from Milan again) in late January. I can't do all of Northern Italy, but I'd like to focus on natural places like Como lake, the Dolomites (but I'm not into skiing so I'm not sure how worthwhile this region is in winter). I know the coast of Liguria is warmer, and i like that, so I will see Cinque Terre for sure, but what else in Northwestern/Northern Italy can you recommend?


I like:

-memorable/dramatic scenery, landscape photography. Where to find the best (viewpoints, vistas, city views, natural views, panoramas, skylines, sunsets, etc..)?
-the unique outdoors, hikes/hilltops/lookouts, and amazing, breathtaking views?
-lovely/charming streets, cute villages, hidden nooks/places, and magnificent/attractive architecture?
-authentic/unforgettable "local" travel experiences or
-non-typical, interesting/special experiences (full of original character), and unique only to the local area.
-the best freebies (museums, galleries excluded)
-specialty/unique regional cuisine/gastronomy (or the BEST places to eat (w/ local's prices, food made with love/regional favorites, and not too many tourists eating there)),
-anything else off-the beaten path.

Thanks

[SueH]

You could try the Aosta Valley. Train from Milano Centrale, change at Chivasso to Aosta itself - an old roman city with forum, walls etc set amongst dramatic scenery - around �11 single (or you could get the coach). The last station on the single track line is Pre St Didier which has Monte Bianco - the highest mountain in Europe - looming over it. Robust mountain food, wine that rarely leaves the valley due to small production and enthusiastic local drinkers and plenty of small villages with typical mountain architecture.

[norbdemn]

While you are up North, it is a good idea to visit Bolzano, it is a city that borders Austria. It is very green. Not sure what you could do up there in the Summer, it is mainly known for skiing in the winter. Maybe someone here can chime in. It's gorgeous up there.

[Teatime of Soul]

Lago Di Garda is terrific - stay in Garda. Find a way to travel around the lake through the mountain tunnels and don't miss Limone.

Also, the human chess game is played every two years for three days on even numbered years in Marostica near (north of) Verona. Go in person and get tickets, only two shows a day - night is best. They have been putting on this spectacle for 500 years.

Verona is nice to visit too.