Northern Italy is a region where history, culture and nature collide, offering travellers a captivating mix of medieval castles and outdoor adventures. From the towering peaks of the Dolomites to the serene lakes of Lombardy, each area has its own historic landmarks and unique story to tell. Here are eight of the best regions to experience the northern Italy’s vibrant diversity.
Nestled between the Southern Alps and Venice and overlooked by the spectacular Dolomites, the Italian province of Trentino is a natural haven entrenched in history. There are several historical castles and forts throughout the region, including Buonconsiglio Castle, the former residence of the prince-bishops of Trento and a proud symbol of the city. Just a 30-minute drive south, Rovereto Castle stands as a shining example of Italy’s late Medieval alpine fortifications, now home to the Historical War Museum.
For outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty, few areas in Italy compare to the Dolomites. A UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, the lofty peaks provide breathtaking scenery and superb outdoor activities. It is a hiker’s paradise with an extraordinary number of trails weaving across towering summits, green valleys and remote villages, while 400km of paved cycle paths are perfect for all levels.
Around three hours northeast of Trentino lies Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the Venetian Queen of the Dolomites. Embraced by a magnificent wall of mountains, 1,200km of pistes and 140 modern lifts, Cortina is one of the largest ski complexes in the world. The 1956 Winter Olympics made the area into a world-famous resort, a legacy that continues to this day. In 2026, the town will co-host the Winter Games, 70 years after its Olympic debut.
The Closing Ceremony of the Olympic Games and the Opening Ceremony of the Paralympic Games will be held in Veneto, in the city of Verona, which is home to the ancient stronghold of Castelvecchio. Built in 1354, the towers, fortified walls, surrounding moat and drawbridges evoke the grandeur and mystery of a medieval fortress. Today, the complex is home to the Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery housing a diverse collection of frescoes, jewellery, medieval artefacts and paintings.
Squeezed between the Dolomites and the Adriatic, Friuli Venezia Giulia was historically an area of conquest protected by several imposing fortresses and castles. In the city of Trieste, Miramare Castle was the fanciful neo-Gothic home of Archduke Maximilian of Austria. Twenty minutes up the coast, the 14th-century Castle of Duino is surrounded by flourishing gardens and phenomenal views.
Further inland, Gorizia Castle has served as a fortress, a barracks and a prison over the years, while the castle of Colloredo di Montalbano is known
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