Five things to see and do in Northern Italy
1. Genoa
Port city, boyhood home of Christopher Columbus.
Top site Via Garibaldi, one of Italy's most beautiful streets, where wealthy families built palaces in the 16th and 17th centuries - they just go on and on, as do marvellous artworks. Stay at Hotel Helvetia, handy to the palaces, transport and the throbbing port.
2. Vicenza Mecca
For admirers of Palladian architecture. Top example is the Teatro Olympico, where the use of trompe l'oeil gives the impression of being in an outdoor Roman amphitheatre.
Eat lots of gelati. Stay at Due Mori, a budget-priced, centuries-old but updated palazzo.
3. Lake Maggiore
Just one of the northern lakes, this contains the fabulous family-owned three Borromean Islands.
My favourite is Isola Bella, with its family palazzo's opulently decorated rooms and, best of all, amazing 17th-century gardens that ascend in 10 luxuriantly planted levels, complemented by exotic statuary and strolling white peacocks. Stay in Stresa, a few minutes away by frequent ferry.
4. Padua
This university city has much to see. Most surprising is the (very) large wooden sculpture of a horse (attributed to Donatello) in the Great Hall, which boasts floor-to-ceiling 15th-century frescoes on all sides.
Padua is not far from Venice and accommodation is much cheaper.
5. Milan
If you fancy some serious shopping, this big city is the place, from ultra-expensive to budget. Sneakers are the "in" thing.
There's also Leonardo's The Last Supper and a spectacular cathedral, along with plenty of action for tram lovers.
Stay in the welcoming, affordable Hotel Berna, handy to Mussolini's vast Fascist-era Stazione Centrale. And, of course, there are Verona and Venice if you have the time.
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