Itinerary for northern Italy in February

I believe the hiking paths in the Cinque Terre are closed during bad weather, which you might run into at that time of year. I'm not sure the Cinque Terre is advisable in February, but let's see what others think.

I'm not sure about Lake Como in February, but if you plan to day trip there, that can be a day-by-day decision.

I'm not clear on whether you're planning to stay in either Ravenna or Rimini and daytrip to Bologna or do the reverse. I'm a big fan of Ravenna; the town kept me busy for two full days as I sought out all the mosaic- and art-related sights. I haven't been to Rimini, but I fear it might be rather quiet in February. Bologna, of course, will be very active then. Should you be unlucky with the winter weather, Bologna is a good place to be because of all the arcaded streets.

hey hey leah.dickerson
since you're renting a car, make sure you get an IDP (AAA.com/ IDP: international driving permit for each driver. it is a legal requirement for italy and other countries. read about the laws and regulations, the ZTL's within city limits that you may fine a letter with a fee/fine $$$ you need to pay. some car rentals may not rent to you and decline your reservation. do the places you hope to stay at having parking available or is it further away from accomodation and have fees?
research times in some places you plan to see that may not have accomodations/restaurants/activities & attractions closed up for winter season. not knowing what the weather will be like, hiking trails closed, beaches shut down. email your hotel for more info about closures and safety issues. good luck and enjoy
aloha

Hi Leah, I am going to give you advice that I haven’t done myself - LOL! I love Italy and have been there numerous times but only travel by train. Since you will have a car and are traveling off-season, would it fit your personalities to book your lodging as you go? The reason I am suggesting this is that the northern lakes can be very rainy, like a downpour! I speak from experience. ; ). And I think Cinque Terre at that time of year probably won’t have the hiking you want open. If the weather is better in one portion of Italy as you’re there, it would give you more flexibility.

Although I like Siena more than Lucca, if you stayed in Lucca, you could swing over to Cinque Terre for the day and at least see it.

I would pick Perugia over Spoleto that time of year. I stayed at Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel there and recommend it. This is my trip report that year which has some good activities for Perugia, https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/trip-report-please-do-not-comment-until-i-change-the-title-filling-in-the-report-thanks

I really liked staying in Ravenna, plus it gives you the chance to go into the Basilica di San Vitale as soon as it opens to enjoy before it’s crowded. Last time I was there, the experience of standing there enjoying the stunning mosaics in silence was amazing! ….at least for the first 15 minutes.

Have a great time!