This summer, my boyfriend Connor and I set off on a dreamy getaway through Northern Italy, choosing to bypass the crowded big cities in favor of discovering the magic tucked away in smaller, lesser-known towns.

 

We landed in Rome and spent just half a day there before catching a train north. After a quick lunch stop in Milan, we continued on to Lake Como—without knowing quite what to expect. What we found was more than we could have imagined: a breathtaking lakeside world of tiny villages, each with its own distinct character, all connected by charming water taxis.

 

Our home base was Moltrasio, a quiet, picture-perfect village with only a handful of restaurants—some of the best I’ve ever experienced. There were virtually no tourists, just locals and Europeans who return year after year. The atmosphere was warm, authentic, and welcoming. We stayed in a lovely Airbnb and were greeted as if we were old friends. Just a few towns away sits George Clooney’s villa, but we found the local spots far more enticing. One night, we dined at a gathering place simply known as The Bar—not the kind of bar you might imagine. Overlooking the lake, it offered live music, rustic charm, and unforgettable food. When we saw the village bread man delivering fresh dough, we knew we had to try the pizza, and it was nothing short of divine.

 

From Como, we ventured on to Lake Garda, a quieter yet equally stunning destination. In Sirmione, we wandered through thermal baths, admired medieval architecture, and marveled at the crystal-clear blue water.

 

Next came the Dolomites, a long-standing bucket list stop for me. The alpine scenery felt dreamlike: jagged peaks, lush meadows, and crisp mountain air. We stayed at the charming Goldene Rose Karthaus, where mornings began with baskets of fresh bread and local delicacies. Our days unfolded slowly and beautifully—lounging by the pool, relaxing in a forest-view sauna, or hiking to the sound of cowbells echoing across the valleys. Our favorite meals came from a tiny restaurant just across the road, where we were welcomed like locals and served hearty, homemade dishes.

 

We ended our journey in Venice but opted to stay in Burano at the Venissa Wine Hotel. With its vibrant houses, quiet canals, and slower pace, Burano gave us the perfect farewell to our Italian summer. While Venice’s main attractions were undeniably romantic, the crowds were a bit overwhelming, so the peaceful charm of Burano felt like the best of both worlds.

Italy left me full in every sense—the people, the landscapes, and of course, the food. Between the endless plates of pasta and perfect pizzas, I may not crave carbs for a year, but I’m already dreaming of when we can return.