Northern Italy in summer is all glistening lakes, pastel fishing villages, Alpine backdrops and long aperitivo evenings by the water. If you’re planning a 2026 trip and want somewhere that mixes scenery, swim spots and a bit of atmosphere after dark, these five towns are some of the best places to visit in Northern Italy this summer.
They’re spread across Lake Garda, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, the Adriatic coast and the Ligurian Riviera, so you get a proper mix of mountains, beaches and classic Italian resort life.
Desenzano del Garda: lively Lake Garda with beaches and nightlife
On the southern shore of Lake Garda in the province of Brescia, Desenzano del Garda has a sociable, energetic feel that sets it apart from some of the lake’s sleepier villages. It’s one of the most accessible towns on the lake, with a train station linking directly to Verona, Milan and Venice.
The beaches here are well-maintained and easy to use, with lidos, sunbed rentals and shallow areas that suit families. If you’re more into movement than lounging, there’s sailing, paddleboarding and cycling along the lakefront
Highlight not to miss: a sunset aperitivo by Porto Vecchio before wandering up to Desenzano Castle for lake views stretching towards Sirmione.
Bellagio: classic Lake Como glamour
Sitting at the point where Lake Como splits into its two southern branches, Bellagio is easily one of the most photographed towns in Northern Italy. It’s known for its elegant villas, manicured gardens and steep stone lanes.
Villa Melzi’s gardens are particularly beautiful in summer, with exotic plants, sculptures and shaded paths right along the water. Just above town, the park of Villa Serbelloni offers panoramic viewpoints over both arms of the lake.
Highlight not to miss: a romantic ferry ride across the lake at golden hour, when the mountains and villas glow in the evening light.
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Baveno: relaxed Lake Maggiore with island views
On the western shore of Lake Maggiore in Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Baveno feels calmer than neighbouring Stresa but still gives you front-row views of the Borromean Islands. The lakeside promenade is lined with grand old hotels and gardens that hint at the area’s Belle Époque heyday.
Boats leave regularly for Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori, making Baveno a strategic base if you want to explore the islands without staying somewhere overly busy. The town also works well for combining lake time with mountain excursions into the Ossola Valley.
Highlight not to miss: a morning boat trip to Isola Bella before the main crowds arrive, followed by a swim back in Baveno.
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Lignano Sabbiadoro: Adriatic beaches and summer events
If your idea of the best places to visit in Northern Italy involves wide sandy beaches and a proper seaside resort feel, Lignano Sabbiadoro delivers. This Blue Flag stretch of the Adriatic coast is known for its long, golden beach and orderly rows of umbrellas, plus family-friendly facilities.
Summer here is busy but well organised, with open-air cinema nights, concerts, food festivals and the long-running Hemingway Prize celebrating literature. During the day, you’ll see people cycling through pine-shaded paths, trying out paddleboarding or heading to the Parco Zoo Punta Verde with children.
Highlight not to miss: an early evening walk along the lungomare as the beach empties and the sky turns soft pink over the Adriatic.
Camogli: Ligurian colour and the Cristo degli Abissi
On the Ligurian coast near Genoa, Camogli is one of those fishing villages that still feels authentic despite its good looks. Tall, pastel-painted houses line the seafront, and the small harbour remains active, giving the place a lived-in feel rather than a polished resort atmosphere.
The pebble beach sits right below the old town, and the 12th-century Dragonara Castle watches over the bay. Camogli is also a gateway to the Portofino Marine Protected Area, where you can snorkel or dive around the famous underwater statue of the Cristo degli Abissi near San Fruttuoso.
Highlight not to miss: a boat trip to San Fruttuoso Abbey for a swim in its emerald-green cove beneath the cliffs.
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