From the Toon to La Dolce Vita – a quick guide to the Italian gems you can fly to, non-stop, from Newcastle Airport.

If you live in the North East of England, you can take your pick of dreamy Italian destinations thanks to Newcastle Airport flying direct to six locations across this captivating country.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Italy’s rich history and architecture, indulge in its world-famous cuisine, or admire its breathtaking lakes, mountains and vineyards – you’ll find an Italian getaway to match your perfect holiday itinerary.

I’ve visited all six destinations and each one offers a truly unique experience.

To help you decide which one to book, I’ve curated an ‘at a glance’ guide, so keep scrolling for all the details (including flight times) – and keep your passport at the ready!

Milan

Milan is the uber cool fashion capital of Italy and I spent a month here in 2022. The city has a lively cosmopolitan buzz to it and blends pockets of historic charm with plenty of bars, restaurants and high-end shops.

Must-do: 

Climb to the top of the Duomo and see the cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture up close. Wander through artsy neighbourhood, Brera, or relax at the stunning QC Termemilano spa, where you’ll find a tram converted into an outdoor sauna. And don’t forget to enjoy an aperitivo beside the canal in the popular Navigli district.

And another thing:

Milan is a great base for travelling to Lake Como, which is just an hour away by train. 

Flight time from Newcastle:

2 hours 15 mins – summer and winter

Milan Duomo at sunset
Milan canal

Verona

Verona is 2000 years old and it’s all kinds of pretty, with its pastel-hued buildings and beautifully preserved monuments and architecture. It’s no wonder Shakespeare set his iconic love story ‘Romeo & Juliet’ here!

Must-do: 

No trip to Verona would be complete without visiting Casa di Giulietta, aka Juliet’s house and balcony. Other highlights include the Arena di Verona – an amphitheatre dating from 30 AD – and the arched Roman bridge, Ponte Pietra.

And another thing:

There’s a bronze statue of Juliet in the courtyard of Casa di Giulietta and touching her breast is said to bring you good fortune in love. (Alas, cue never-ending queues for a photo opportunity!)

Flight time from Newcastle:

2 hours 20 mins – summer

 

Verona river
Verona street scene
Verona Juliet's balcony

Naples

Naples is a gritty, bustling city, yet there’s a wealth of classical ruins and historical buildings to seek out and admire. Most notably, Pompeii and Herculaneum are nearby and Mount Vesuvius towers in the distance.

Must-do: 

When in Naples, it would be rude not to try an authentic Neapolitan pizza, characterised by a soft dough and high edges – it’s delicious! You can also explore the city’s labyrinth of underground air-raid shelters and aqueducts by booking onto a fascinating guided tour.

And another thing:

Naples is the gateway to the Amalfi coast, with Sorrento, Positano, the island of Capri and other postcard-perfect towns all within easy reach.

Flight time from Newcastle:

3 hours – summer

 

Naples street scene
Naples panoramic view

Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily – the large island just off the ‘boot’ of Italy. Through the ages, its architecture, culture and cuisine have been influenced by the Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans and Spanish. As a result, Palermo has more of an eclectic, exotic feel compared to mainland Italy. 

Must-do: 

Visit Palermo Cathedral, wander through the city’s historic gardens, and explore its famous outdoor food markets. Grab a brioche con gelato – you’ll never want to eat your ice cream atop a wafer cone again!

And another thing:

The quaint town of Cefalu is less than an hour away and it’s where scenes from Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and The White Lotus (series two) were filmed. Its biscuit-brown sandy beaches are worth a day trip, at the very least!

Flight time from Newcastle:

3 hours 30 mins – this route opens summer 2026

 

Palermo
Palermo gardens

Rome

Rome is filled with iconic sculptures, piazzas and landmarks – from the Colosseum and Vatican City to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. I’ve been twice and feel like I’ve still only scratched the surface! If you love your Roman history, this has to be on your travel bucket list.

Must-do: 

Enjoy a fiery sunset dancing across Rome’s skyline from the top of the Spanish Steps, and sip on a cocktail at Terrazza Les Etoiles, a stylish rooftop bar offering stunning views of St Peter’s Basilica.

And another thing:

You can watch pasta being handmade in the window of Osteria Da Fortunata, just off Campo di Fiori square, while you eat your dinner. Expect to queue for a table, as it’s a very popular restaurant. This was one of my favourites when I visited last year.

Flight time from Newcastle:

2 hours 45 mins – summer

 

Rome Spanish Steps

Turin

Thanks to Turin’s blend of Baroque architecture, monumental treasures and sweeping promenades, you would be forgiven for thinking you had stumbled across the border into France. In recent years, the city has hosted the Winter Olympics and Eurovision song contest, showing its versatility!

Must-do: 

Visit the Mole Antonelliana tower (the city’s most famous building), wander through the Royal Gardens, and soak up the majestic surroundings of Piazza San Carlo. Valentino Park and the banks of the River Po are also perfect for a short stroll.

And another thing:

Monte dei Cappuccini is a small hill that offers the most breathtaking views of Turin and the snow-capped Italian Alps in the distance. 

Flight time from Newcastle:

2 hours – winter

 

Turin cityscape

For more information about flights from Newcastle Airport to Italy and other European destinations, visit www.newcastleairport.com.