Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in Northern Italy to Add to Your Bucket List

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Northern Italy is one of the most diverse regions in all of Europe. In one trip, you can walk through world-famous fashion districts, relax by calm mountain lakes, and take a boat ride through ancient canals. The region is home to the Alps and the Dolomites in the north, and it stretches down to the coast of the Ligurian Sea. With rich history, great food, and stunning landscapes, the most beautiful places in Northern Italy offer something different at every turn.

If you are planning your next trip to Europe, you are in the right place. Here are the ten most beautiful places in Italy that are worth adding to your bucket list.

Let's start the list with one of the most popular destinations in Italy. Known as the fashion capital of the world, Milan is a great place for art, shopping, and architecture. You can visit the iconic Gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Milano, and then go shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest shopping galleries in the world. Don't forget to make a stop at Santa Maria delle Grazie Church to see Leonardo da Vinci's famous masterpiece, The Last Supper.

If you love the outdoors, the Dolomites should be at the top of your list. This stunning mountain range in northeastern Italy has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009. In summer, you can explore the many scenic hiking trails that wind through the valleys and peaks. If you visit in winter, the area transforms into one of the best ski destinations in all of Europe.

Surrounded by green hills and elegant villas, Lake Como has long been a favourite escape for celebrities and travellers from around the world. You can take a boat trip across the calm, clear water and stop at the charming town of Bellagio, located right at the centre of the lake. Don't miss the beautiful gardens of Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, which are both stunning to walk through.

Venice is a dream destination for many travelers, especially couples. Built on a series of small islands connected by canals, this city has a special atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic getaway. Taking a gondola ride through the Grand Canal is a must. You can also explore the famous St. Mark's Square and visit the beautiful St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. If you have extra time, hop over to the nearby islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello.

If you are looking for something truly unique, Cinque Terre is the place to go. Five small villages, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, sit on steep cliffs along the Ligurian coast. You can hike the scenic trails that connect the villages and enjoy great views of the sea along the way. After the walk, try some fresh seafood and a glass of local wine in one of the village restaurants.

Often overlooked in favour of more famous cities, Turin is well worth a visit. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia, the city is full of grand baroque architecture and wide, elegant streets that are great for an afternoon walk. Make sure you stop by the Egyptian Museum, one of the most important outside of Egypt. You should also try the famous gianduja chocolate and sit down for a coffee in one of the city's historic cafes.

Known by the nickname "La Grassa," meaning the fat one, Bologna is widely considered the food capital of Italy. This is where tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella come from, so you should definitely eat well here. You can also walk under the long porticoes, or covered walkways, that line the streets and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't forget to climb the Due Torri, or Two Towers, for a great view over the city.

For food lovers, Parma is one of the most rewarding stops in Northern Italy. Two of the world's most famous food products, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, come from this region. You can visit local farms and curing houses to see how they are made and taste them fresh. While you are there, also take some time to admire the Baptistery of Parma and the Cathedral, two of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in the country.

As the largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda has something for every type of traveler. If you enjoy water sports, head to the northern end where strong winds make it a great spot for windsurfing and sailing. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, the southern shore has wide beaches and family-friendly parks. You should also make a stop at Sirmione, a charming medieval town set on a narrow peninsula that stretches out into the lake.

Modena is a small city with a big reputation. This is the birthplace of traditional balsamic vinegar, which is aged for years in wooden barrels and tastes nothing like the supermarket kind. You can visit a local acetaia, or vinegar house, to see how it is made. If you are a car enthusiast, don't miss the Enzo Ferrari Museum. The Modena Cathedral and the Ghirlandina Tower in the city centre are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites and worth a look.