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10 Day Trip to Italy: The Perfect Itinerary You Should Steal

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Are you in the midst of planning your dream trip to Italy? Then get ready for beautiful villages, ancient ruins, delicious fresh food and wine, and amazing espresso. There’s a lot to see over a 10 day trip to Italy, and this itinerary will make sure you get the most out of your time.

Italy is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited, and my sixth country.  I’ll never forget looking out the plane window as we descended into Rome. We were treated to stunning views of the Italian coastline, with little white boats dotting the intensely blue sea.

My husband and I are still talking about this trip because it was so mind-blowingly awesome, with some of our favorite memories together.  We reminisce on photos all the time, and pine to return to Italy as soon as we can. There is still so much in this country that we’ve yet to see.

With so much to explore in Italy, it can be difficult to condense the many worthy sights into one trip.  However, this classic 10 day Italy itinerary will help any first-timer experience the best that Italy has to offer.  Let’s get into it!

The Perfect 10 Day Italy Trip Itinerary

Here is a quick overview of this itinerary, which will take you through three regions of Italy, all with their own unique character. By the end of this trip, you’ll have gotten to experience the ancient city of Rome, the Ligurian Sea views of Cinque Terre, and the rolling hills and Renaissance history of Tuscany.

• Rome – 4 Days
• Cinque Terre – 3 Days
• Florence – 3 Days

Additionally, this 10 day Italy trip itinerary assumes you will be getting around Italy mostly by train, since a car is largely impractical in these destinations. This itinerary is detailed, but lengthy. Therefore, I’ve created the below table of contents so you can skip ahead.

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Rome – Settle In
• Day 2: Rome – Walking Tour
• Day 3: Rome – The Vatican
• Day 4: Rome – Ancient Sites
• Day 5: Cinque Terre – Settle In
• Day 6: Cinque Terre – Vernazza & Monterosso al Mare
• Day 7: Cinque Terre – High Trail to Manarola
• Day 8: Florence – Settle in & Food Tour
• Day 9: Florence – Explore the City
• Day 10: Florence – Chianti Classico Day Trip
• Fly Home: Head to FLR Airport

Best Time to Visit Italy

10 day italy trip stop #1: rome, day 1: rome.

This will be your arrival day in Rome, aka The Eternal City. We took a red-eye flight the night before in order to arrive by noon on our first day. This gave us the full day to settle in, and start working through our jet lag.

Arrival in Rome

You will arrive into Fiumicino (FCO), or Leonardo da Vinci Airport. First, you’ll need to clear customs, which could take a while depending on the day. Then you can proceed to picking up any checked bags, though we personally prefer carry-on only.

After that, I recommend finding an ATM, as having cash on hand is useful in Italy. We took out about €200 to start. I do not recommend bringing USD (or other currency) to convert on arrival, as currency exchange counters are notorious for unfavorable rates.

Leonardo Express

Next, it’s time to navigate to the Rome city center via the Leonardo Express :

• First you will need to buy your tickets, which cost €14 per person. Purchase them online here , or at a kiosk in the airport. Note that the kiosks often have lines and can be slow.
• To find the train platform, follow well-marked airport signs with a train icon or that say “stazione” or “TRENI”.
• Take the Leonardo Express to Termini Station in Rome (Roma Termini). The train leaves approximately every 15 minutes, and the ride takes about 32 minutes. 

Once you arrive into Termini Station, take the metro from there to your lodging. We booked an Airbnb near the Spanish Steps, so we took Line A to the Spagna stop (click here for maps).

The metro is very easy to use, as trains run frequently and tickets can be purchased in any metro station, tobacco shops, or newsstand kiosks. One way tickets cost €1.50 each, and there are also various multi-use passes available, explained here .

By now, you should be navigating to your lodging, whether that means taking the metro, bus, walking, or grabbing a taxi.  As we walked from Spagna, I’ll never forget the sweltering heat and buildings shaded in sunburnt yellows, oranges, and reds emerging all around me. The beautiful fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps was looking very inviting.

Once you get settled in, you may want to pick up a few simple grocery items to have on hand.  This is very helpful with staying on budget during your trip, even if just breakfast or lunch.  We were able to find a small grocery store that was only about a five minute walk from our place.

If possible, I recommend staying somewhere with a terrace and Nespresso machine.  These items were instrumental in taking my Rome experience to the next level.

Head Out for Food

One thing you can do your first night is grab dinner, and perhaps go for an evening walk.  We were exhausted from our long travel day, so chose not to veer too far from our lodging. However, we did find some adorable street dining just a few streets over from the Spanish Steps for cacio e pepe, which is essentially Italian mac and cheese.

Travel Savvy Tip

Take advantage of your jetlag.  If you find yourself restless in the wee hours of the morning, set out for an early walk.  Getting up early your first day helps get your sleep back on schedule sooner.

One of the best things my husband and I ever did was go out for a morning 6 am walk in Rome.  There is nothing like seeing the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain when they are completely deserted, save for a few photographers.  We were lucky to be staying within a ten minute walk of both places.

Day 2: Rome

It’s time to hit the ground running for your first full day in Rome.  First of all, read my previous jet lag tip and consider heading out for an early walk.  It’s magical to see Rome’s most iconic sights before they become super crowded.

Visit a Cafe

Next, eat some breakfast at your place or head to a café.  Or do both.  I’m pretty sure we ate an espresso or cappuccino along with a cornetto (Italian croissant) every day, regardless of any other breakfast we had.  Did I mention you might gain weight while you’re in Italy?

After you’ve fueled up some, head out for a morning sightseeing walk.  This could be a guided tour or simply self-guided.  A guided tour like this one will help you get a better understanding of your surroundings, while self-guided is free and will give you more freedom and flexibility.

If you prefer to explore on your own, here is a beautiful route I’ve mapped out that will show you the highlights of Rome (link to Part 1 and Part 2 ).  This walk is one of our best memories, and didn’t cost a dime! Bring your camera and expect to spend two to four hours exploring, depending on your pace.

Here is a list of some of the amazing sights you’ll see:

• Begin at Piazza Barberini
• Climb up the Spanish Steps
• Check out the view over Piazza del Popolo from Terrazza del Pincio
• Stroll charming Via Margutta
• Explore the Pantheon
• View the fountains in Piazza Navona
• Check out the markets stalls in Campo de’ Fiori
• View the River Tiber from 15th century bridge Ponte Sisto
• Take a selfie after throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain

After your walk, take an afternoon rest at your lodging and eat some lunch. 

You’ll run into fresh water fountains (nasoni) all around Rome.  These are the result of aqueducts built by the ancient Romans. 

The water is fresh from the mountains near Rome and is tested regularly, so it’s perfectly safe to drink!  We carried a water bottle around with us as we explored, and constantly filled up when we’d run into a fountain.

Borghese Gallery

At 5 pm, check out the Borghese Gallery, which has an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings housed in a 17th century villa. Reservations are required, and the museum is open every day except Monday from 9 am to 7 pm.  Tickets for a two-hour time slot cost €15 and can be purchased here .

Finish off your day with pizza. We ate ours at Da Francesco , which is a cozy space in an awesome location near Piazza Navona. We loved the opportunity to see the fountains of this gorgeous piazza lit up at night when we were done.

Day 3: Rome

By day 3 of your 10 day trip to Italy, hopefully your jetlag is improving. Mine and my husband’s was pretty bad, and it took about three or four days to stop waking up full of energy at 2 am. I was thankful for the great espresso all around me!

Tour The Vatican

The Vatican is an absolute must on any 10 day Italy itinerary. I knew next to nothing about it before our trip, but during our visit I learned a ton about how the Vatican was once a seat of power that greatly influenced western civilization.

Of the 110 acres and 1,400 rooms, here are some of the highlights you will see:

• Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• St.  Peter’s Square
• Gallery of the Maps (my favorite)

You can easily reach Vatican City from Rome via the metro.  You will need to take Line A to the Ottaviano stop. Many tour groups meet nearby the station, or you can simply walk five minutes to the Vatican Museums.

In summer, the Vatican can see as many as 20,000 visitors per day.  Therefore, it’s imperative to book your tickets in advance, so you do not have to wait in a very long line outside.  Tickets can be purchased here for €17 .

The Vatican is also enormous. A guided tour will help you cut through the crowds and focus your attention so you understand what you’re looking at. We did this 4-hour tour that, while tiring, did our visit justice and allowed us to see the Sistine Chapel before the worst of the crowds.

As The Vatican is a religious site, you must dress appropriately, or your entrance could be denied. If you cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing controversial graphic tees, you should be fine.

Additionally, the Vatican is closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month, which is a free day. While this will save you money, the crowds will be terrible and could dampen your experience. All that body heat in tight rooms can make things feel very stuffy and claustrophobic.

Our Vatican tour took a lot out of us and we were still jetlagged, so we had a low key afternoon on Day 3. This left us nice and refreshed to go back out for dinner around 7 pm.

Do note that many restaurants prefer you make reservations. However, you can often make them at the last minute and walk-ins are sometimes still accepted. In Rome, dinner is generally served between 7 pm and 11 pm.

Be careful not to accidentally end up at a tourist trap, which are generally found near popular tourist sites and tend to have blown-up menus showing pictures of food at the entrance.  These spots are not only inauthentic, but also overpriced. Moving even one street over from a major tourist spot can mean better dining options.

We enjoyed dining in the Piazza Navona neighborhood so much the first night, that we had to return the next evening. This time we chose Saltimbocca, which had beautiful street dining and served authentic pasta and seafood dishes.

If you are trying to save money and aren’t especially particular about wine, then always order a caraffa of the house wine.  There is usually a red and white selection, and they are always good!  I didn’t have a single bad glass of wine throughout our 10 day Italy trip.

Day 4: Rome

Ancient Rome

Spend your last day exploring different aspects of ancient Rome.  Plan to spend a total of two to four hours at the following:

• Colosseum: Once a site of gladiator fights and other public displays
• Roman Forum: Center of public life in ancient Rome
• Palatine Hill: Site of ancient aristocratic settlements

All three of these sites are covered under one €16 ticket, which can be bought here . You will need to reserve a time slot when booking your ticket, and a €2 presale fee will also apply.

In peak summer season, it’s best to arrive early in the morning for cooler air and smaller crowds. All of these sights are outdoors, and the hot midday sun can turn wandering through fascinating ruins into a chore.

After a few hours of sightseeing, take a gelato break – the colosseum is virtually surrounded by gelaterias.

Capitoline Museums

In the evening, if you have energy left from your Rome adventures, head back out to the Capitoline Museums.  Sitting on top of the Capitoline Hill, this museum features an expansive collection of paintings and sculptures, many of which came from the city of Rome. The museum is open every day until 7:30 pm, and tickets to the various exhibitions can be purchased here . 

Full disclosure, we actually skipped this sight because we were exhausted from 3 days of wandering around Rome. We were ready for some wine, and were super excited for our dinner reservations.

Atmospheric Dinner

Hands down, the place my husband and I remember the most from our 10 day Italy trip is Old Bear. This rustic spot is located on a quiet street, and has the perfect ambiance for your last evening in Rome. We were glad to have made reservations the night before, since many people were waiting a long time in the street for a table to open up.

I will never forget my delicious pumpkin lasagna – and I’m not even a lasagna person! Unfortunately, I have no photos because I was face first in my food.

There are a few money saving tricks for sightseeing in Rome. The first is considering whether the Roma Pass may be worth it for you. There are options for 48 and 72 hour periods, and could save you money depending on how many included sights you wish to see, and how often you’ll use public transportation.

Additionally, some museums do a free day each month.  Check their respective websites to see if any dates fall during your trip.  That said, free days also bring big crowds and long waits, which might not be ideal if you’re tight on time.

10 Day Italy Trip Stop #2: Cinque Terre

Day 5: Cinque Terre

The next iconic stop on your 10 day Italy trip is Liguria, home to the colorful Cinque Terre villages that seemingly pop out from the vineyard covered hillsides. To reach Cinque Terre from Rome, take the train from Roma Termini station to La Spezia Centrale. La Spezia is a larger town located south of Cinque Terre, and the jumping point for all five villages (listed out below from south to north):

• Riomaggiore
• Monterosso al Mare

From La Spezia Centrale, hop on the Cinque Terre Express (€4) to the village you are staying in. We picked Corniglia, which is the middle village and third stop.  If you also choose Corniglia, be aware that reaching this particular village additionally requires climbing over 300 steps or grabbing a shuttle bus (€1.50).

Once you’re settled, do some exploring around your village before finding dinner.  These five towns are tiny and easy to quickly see on foot, though some are more hilly than others.  This post provides more info about each village and advice on choosing where to stay.

Just keep in mind that no matter where you base yourself, you’ll still be able to easily visit the other four villages with a quick train ride.

Trains in Italy are often late.  Therefore, I recommend not purchasing tickets with tight connections.

In this instance, you could purchase your journey from Roma Termini to your Cinque Terre village on the Trenitalia website in one transaction. However, these connections are often twenty minutes or less, which isn’t ideal if your first train gets delayed.

As it is not more expensive to book each leg of the trip separately, I suggest waiting to purchase your Cinque Terre ticket until you arrive in La Spezia. These tickets are very easy to purchase at the ticket counter or machines right on site.

Day 6: Cinque Terre

The five villages of Cinque Terre are connected by hiking paths that offer some incredible views over the Ligurian Sea. You’d be hard pressed to find something like this anywhere else; therefore, it’s crucial to get out on the trails at least a little bit.

If you get tired or decide not to hike after all, the train will be there for you to fall back on, but the views are not nearly as good!

Hike to Vernazza

Today you will hike the Blue Path, or Cinque Terre’s most famous coastal trail, from Corniglia to Vernazza, and then finally onto Monterosso al Mare.  I suggest getting an early start, as the trails can get crowded by mid-afternoon. Note that this particular trail requires purchasing a pass for 7 euros, which you can buy online or right at the trailhead when it opens around 9 am.

If you aren’t staying in Corniglia, you will first need to take the train there in order to begin your hike (just prepare for those stairs, or grab the shuttle from the train station).  You could also hike in the other direction, starting in Monterosso al Mare. However, then you’ll miss the striking beach views when descending into Monterosso, as well as the chance to jump in the water at the end!

The first leg of the hike between Corniglia and Vernazza will take around 1.5 hours.  Be sure to take in the amazing views of Vernazza from the trail as you approach the village.  Once in Vernazza, take a break from hiking to do some exploring:

• Eat gelato at Gelateria Vernazza (the best gelato we ate in Cinque Terre)
• Grab a snack, such as a fried seafood cone
• Stroll around the harbor
• Pop into the Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church, which dates back to the 14th century
• Take the tunnel to Vernazza’s secluded rock beach

Hike to Monterosso al Mare

Next, continue your hike on the Blue Trail to Monterosso al Mare, which should take another 1.5 hours.  Monterosso al Mare is flatter than the other four villages, which makes it easier to explore.  It’s also known for having the nicest beach of the five villages. 

When you arrive, you’ll likely be exhausted and covered in sweat. Therefore, you must reward yourself with an aperol spritz and snack on the water, like we did at Nuovo Bar Eden.

Next it’s time to jump into the Ligurian Sea, after staring longingly at it from the trails all day. For €30, you can rent two chairs and an umbrella at Bagno Eden . 

This was definitely one of the highlights of my Cinque Terre experience, and I was glad we thought ahead and brought swimwear with us. When we were finally dry, Aaron and I took the train back to Corniglia to get ready for dinner.

You may need to purchase a Cinque Terre Card . If you plan to hike the Blue Trail, then you will at least need a Trekking Card (€7.50) for each day you plan to use that trail. The Trekking Card will also cover any shuttle buses.

You may also save money by purchasing the Treno Card instead of the Trekking Card. The price will depend on whether you need it for one (€16), two (€29) or three days (€41).

The Treno Card covers the Blue Path, unlimited train travel, and shuttle buses. It is worth purchasing for at least one day if you plan to hike the Blue Trail, take the train at least twice, and use a shuttle bus one time. Either card can be purchased online here .

Dinner in Riomaggiore

At the moment, the trail that leads to Riomaggiore from Manarola is closed due to landslides. Instead of hiking, you can give your legs a rest and take the train to Riomaggiore for dinner.

An excellent restaurant to check out is Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma .  I recommend making a reservation to ensure you get to experience this restaurant’s beautiful cliffside terrace.  There was so much ambiance during sunset, so we took our time sipping wine and ordering every course available.

Day 7: Cinque Terre

There is only one more village left to visit: Manarola. To reach it, you will hike in the opposite direction from Corniglia on a quiet, scenic trail.

Hike to Manarola

Today you’ll hike from Corniglia to Manarola via Volastra (trail #587 to #586 to #506).  This is a higher trail that will have you going up, up, up at the beginning, and then back down seemingly endless stairs at the end.  This hike takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.

While the hike begins with a long climb up many stone steps, it eventually levels out and becomes quite shady and pleasant.  You are then rewarded with incredible sea views as you pass through charming vineyards. 

Once in Manarola, join the queue for lunch at Nessun Dorma to experience their famous views and meat and cheese platters. While on the waterfront path to the restaurant, be sure to turn around to take in the view of Manarola across the harbor. It is postcard perfect!

To be honest, my husband and I did not linger long in Manarola.  It was the busiest of the five villages, and being that it was the middle of the day, the crowds were bad.  If you wish to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit Manarola in the evening when the day trippers have left.

Dinner in Corniglia

For a memorable seafood dinner on your last night, make a reservation at A Cantina da Mananan in Corniglia.  This cozy space can only seat about 20 people at a time, so the tables will fill up.

Be prepared for plenty of ambiance, as well as plates featuring local fresh catches. We particularly enjoyed the taglierini ai frutti di mare.

10 Day Italy Trip Stop #3: Florence

Day 8: florence.

It’s time for the last leg of your 10 day Italy trip: Florence . This Tuscan city is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and today it continues to attract lovers of food, art, and architecture.

Florence is easily reached from Cinque Terre via train.  You will first need to grab the Cinque Terre Express from your village to La Spezia. From La Spezia, catch your next train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, either directly or with one connection. Purchase your train tickets online in advance on Trenitalia or simply right at the gate.

Upon arrival, I highly recommend joining an evening food tour in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood. This was one of the best experiences of our entire 10 day Italy trip, and it also provided a nice intro to Florence. By the end of the tour, we were essentially served a full meal paired with delicious Italian wines.

We were grateful to receive some restaurant recommendations from our guide. Plus, my husband and I even returned to a few places from the tour the next day.

On the Oltrarno side of town, be sure to take note of the small wine windows on the facades of some buildings.  These were used during the Renaissance era for families to sell wine directly out of their homes.

Citizens would show up to the windows with their empty bottles, which the family would then fill for them.

Day 9: Florence

Explore florence.

On your first full day in Florence, hit the ground running with your sightseeing. It’s easy to explore the city center’s compact area in one busy day, whether on your own or with a guided tour .

Here are the top must-do’s in Florence:

• Accademia Gallery: This museum houses Michelangelo’s larger-than-life statue of David, along with several of his other unfinished sculptures.  In addition, you can also find an impressive collection of paintings and musical instruments. Purchase tickets online for €12.
• Ponte Vecchio: Cross this medieval bridge over the Arno River to the lesser-visited Oltrarno neighborhood. Ponte Vecchio has been lined with shops since the 13th century, and they help to give the bridge its unique appearance. The bridge is totally free to visit.
• Piazza del Duomo: This striking piazza tends to be teeming with tourists admiring the colorful marble facade of the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore.  This beautiful cathedral is famous for its imposing dome, created by Filippo Brunelleschi. The cathedral is free to visit, though you may need to wait in line. If you wish to climb the dome, visit the bell tower, or check out the museum, tickets can be purchased online here .
• Uffizi Gallery: This museum is housed in a Renaissance era building with stunning frescoed ceilings. Here, you can see several centuries worth of Renaissance art and other treasures, including significant works like Sandro Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Tickets cost €20 and can be purchased online here .

While admission to some of the above places can be purchased on-site, I do not recommend doing this during busy tourist seasons. This largely encompasses the months of June through August, when long waits will eat up your day while you overheat in line.

Even worse – time slots could potentially fill up, meaning you miss the chance to visit entirely. For these reasons, it is best to book ahead online whenever possible.

Dinner in Florence

If you eat meat, you’re in luck because Florence restaurants typically include plenty of it on their menus. This evening, I recommend dining at a place known for Florence’s most famous dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine Steak.

These steaks are huge cuts served on a bone, and are best shared with at least one other person. The cuts are also quite thick, but only cooked for a couple minutes on each side. This means you can expect your meat to be served rare/medium rare, or quite pink in the middle.

At the recommendation of our food tour guide, we dined at Trattoria 4 Leoni , a classy restaurant tucked into a tiny, quaint square in Oltrarno.

Be sure to save room for gelato after dinner across the square at Gelateria Della Passera. Alternatively, our scoops from Perché no!… were our favorite in Florence, and just a ten minute walk back across the Arno River.

Day 10: Florence

Piazza michelangelo.

Start your last day in Florence with a morning stroll to Oltrarno for some of the best scenery in town at Piazza Michelangelo.  This small park requires an uphill climb, but rewards you with panoramic views over all of Florence. From this perspective, you can appreciate just how giant the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore truly is, as it protrudes over the skyline.

If you can muster the energy, I highly recommend visiting Piazza Michelangelo at sunrise.  My husband and I woke up at 5:30 am to make the half hour journey, but it was so worth it.  There were few other people there with us, and the sunrise lighting was incredible.

Day Trip to Chianti Classico

On day two of your Florence stay, you could choose to remain in the city center and see additional sights that you missed on day one. However, I personally recommend getting out of town with a day trip to Chianti Classico.

A day trip to this wine region will give you a taste of the green rolling hills (and *ahem* great wine) that this region is known for.  Plus, some of the region’s great wineries can be found just forty minutes south of Florence. You could either rent a car to explore on your own, or join this small group tour .

This day trip is perfect for those seeking a change of pace from the crowds of Florence. Plus, you will get to experience the delicious red wines of Chianti Classico and admire some of Italy’s most gorgeous scenery. If exploring on your own, check out my post here for ideas on what to do in Chianti Classico .

Keep a lookout for the black rooster on each bottle of Chianti Classico wine. This symbol denotes wines that are authentically from this region and follow the correct blend of grapes.

Sigh…it had to end sometime. By now, you’ve done and seen so much during your 10 day Italy trip. Therefore, it’s time to head home and give your wallet and legs a break.

Make your way to the Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR or Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola).  There are several ways you could get there, whether by car, bus, or tram.

If you rented a car near the airport to visit Chianti Classico, then it will be really easy to drop the car off and shuttle from there. Otherwise, a taxi or the tram are the next easiest options.

The tram is the most cost effective, as tickets are €1.50 each way. To reach the airport, you will need to take Line T2 ( schedule here ) from the Unità tram stop in the Florence city center. The ride takes about twenty minutes, and trams run frequently, making several stops along the way.

It is also possible to grab the “Vola in Bus” as a direct shuttle to the Florence airport. Connections are available hourly between 10:00 am to 8:00 pm ( schedule here ) from the BUSITALIA Bus Station Via Santa Caterina da Siena, 17 (near the Santa Maria Novella train station). The journey costs €6, which can be paid in cash on the bus, and takes about twenty minutes.

You may be wondering when the best time is to do this 10 day Italy itinerary. While that will be personal for everyone, there are some months that are more ideal than others. 

For example, we did our 10 day Italy trip in mid-August, when the weather was sweltering and the crowds were thick. This is not the preferred month to visit Italy, but our dates were fixed since we were in Europe for a wedding.

Here is a brief rundown of what you can expect Italy to be like during different times of the year:

June to August

This is Italy’s busiest tourist season, with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Summer in Italy also tends to be very hot and dry, which can be great for the beach, but less ideal for lots of walking and sightseeing.

May or September

These two months are shoulder season. While still popular times to visit due to pleasantly warm weather, the crowds are not as bad as peak season. If you do not want to visit during the chilly low season, but fear battling terrible summer crowds, May and September are a happy medium.

October to April

These months are low season in Italy. They typically bring a little more rain and cooler temperatures, though the weather is generally still comfortable for walking around and exploring. For example, the average high in Rome for January and February is in the mid 50’s ( ° F). If you are trying to save money, or want to avoid long waits and have more sights to yourself, then low season is for you.

Are you excited yet? I certainly hope so, because this 10 day itinerary will ensure you have the perfect Italy trip. With friendly people, delicious wine and espresso, and fresh food everywhere, what’s not to love?  And don’t even get me started on the scenery…

With that said, I hope you have the magical experience that my husband and I had! This 10 day Italy itinerary will definitely have you on your way with planning a trip to remember.

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Italy Day Tours – 20 Most Memorable Sightseeing Tours

Rich in history, culture, and the arts, you might check out one of the many Italy day tours to see the Bel Paese (a beautiful country). Having so many things to see, you may wonder where to begin touring.

Italy has the most UNESCO world heritage sites in the world (58 total). That means that you can spend two weeks in Italy and barely scratch the surface of all the fun things to see and do. Even if you don’t see everything on your first trip to Italy, it leaves plenty of room to experience more fun things later.

With all of that in mind, I put together this awesome list of the best day tours in Italy . Check out the ones that appeal to you the most.

1. Siena and San Gimignano: Day Tour with Lunch from Florence

Taking a full-day tour from Florence , this 9-hour trip, offered in English, will let you tour the Tuscan countryside with your taste buds. Walk through the medieval streets of Siena on a guided tour of a city that sits right in the middle of Tuscany. Easily the most recognizable structure in Siena is the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the central square.

The streets and squares of Siena make it perfect for strolls, and you will discover how the city has a way of absorbing you right into it even beyond the landmarks.

Along with Siena, this is one of the day trips in Italy where you will head 25 miles to the north of Siena to explore the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, thought to date back to the Holy Roman Empire. Full of ancient buildings, San Gimignano earned UNESCO world heritage status as a way to preserve its rich history.

2. Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi Day Tour from Naples

One of the fun and exciting day trips in Italy, this fun exploration of the Amalfi Coast will last from 8 to 9 hours. During the tour, the driver will stop twice at some of the most picturesque locations for stunning photos and memories. While in Sorrento and Amalfi, you will receive time to explore on your own, and we highlight that because it gives you more freedom to wander in the wonder of this location that has captured the imagination of travelers since Roman times.

The scenic coastal views and the delightful gourmet and regional cuisine will be a bite to be remembered as one of the fun Italy day tours.

3. Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Day Trip from Venice

Wish to escape Venice for the day? Check out this tour of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a luxurious ski resort town. This is one of the best day trips in Italy because you get to see the Dolomite Mountains and take a break at two of the most beautiful lakes: Lake Musurina and Lake Braies. You will also get the chance to go shopping at some of the chic boutiques. 

All the while, you get to take in the landscapes of a region famous for its beauty.

4. Cinque Terre Day Tour from Florence

Taking you over to a coastal region of cliff-hanging villages, this is one of the Italy day tours that will take you through the region’s history—history lovers everywhere should pay attention. On this tour, you will take a boat ride from Manarola to Vernazza. The tour gives you free time to explore this region on foot. Step into some of the local wine bars and restaurants and sip some of the regional varieties.

To ensure a more intimate atmosphere, book the tour with a maximum of eight.

5. Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

One of the best day trips in Italy, the City of Bridges never disappoints, and getting a tour here will show you all the best sites of the city. Venice belongs to the country of Italy today, but it was considered a powerful and independent city-state for over 1,100 years. This guided 6-hour and 30-minute tour will take you to the bustling Rialto Fish Market.

You will climb aboard a gondola and tour the city. It’s one of the best ways to get to know this city. You will also take a guided tour of Doge’s Palace.

6. Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan

Wish to ride along one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world? This is one of the Italy day tours that you don’t want to miss. The glacial lakes and the alpine scenery will leave you with lifelong memories, and you will get time to explore St. Moritz and Tirano. While the area is beautiful, the guide will explain everything about the region along the way.

7. The Original Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter’s Dome Climb

This thrilling tour of the Vatican starts you out differently from the others where you begin with a climb of the St. Peter’s Basilica dome. Once up there, you will see a picturesque scene of Vatican City and Rome . This is one of the day tours in Italy, guided by an art historian, and will include a run through the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum.

8. Capri, Anacapri, and Blue Grotto on a Day Trip

Lasting approximately eight hours, this tour was meant to highlight the best of Capri, Anacapri, and Blue Grotto. Your tour on a hydrofoil and a minibus, and the tour guide will offer insights about the destination along the way.

9. Montalcino, Orcia Valley, Pienza, and Montepulciano from Florence

This tour lasts about 11 hours and 30 minutes, and it will take you through the highlights of the Tuscan region. Taste some of the most delightful wines and cheeses and absorb the joys of the Val d’Orcia countryside. During this tour, you will see historic hill towns like Montalcino, Pienza , and Montelpulciano . Along the way, you’ll enjoy the hilly vineyard countryside on one of the unforgettable Italy day tours.

Explore more: 17 Day Trips from Siena – Discover Slices of Tuscan Life

10. Etna Morning Trip

Southern Italy has a distinctly different feel from that of northern Italy, and this tour of Mt. Etna will take you to one of the biggest volcanos in all of Europe . You will hike along the trail to the inner crater and learn more about the fascinating geological history of this location. At the same time, you will admire the stunning views of the spectacular Sicilian landscapes.

11. Murano & Burano Islands Guided Day Tour by Private Boat

The nearby islands of Murano and Burano offer a lot to travelers, and this tour, a short trip from Venice, will give you insights into the glass-blowing techniques of Murano. Both of the islands are artisan islands, and you can wander the picturesque streets and visit the charming Italian workshops.

12. Best of Lake Como Experience from Milan, Cruise, and Landscapes

Take an adventure into the beautiful cities of Como and Bellagio. The tour starts with arrival at the lakeside town of Como. The area has an almost fairytale landscape, and you will ride north to see what has inspired generations of artists. You will take a lake cruise over this mountainous region for one of the most spectacular experiences.

13. Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine

You will meet with a local guide who shows you through the scenic Tuscan hills . Along the way, you will pass the famous Church of San Miniato al Monte and the Piazzale Michelangelo. Once finished, you will head over into the hilly vineyard countryside of Tuscany for a traditional Italian meal—bruschetta, salami board, pasta, and cheese. You will follow the guide riding along on a scooter.

This is one of those tours that take you a bit off the tourist trail for an authentic Italian experience.

14. Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli Tour from Rome

This is one of those Italy day tours that I wouldn’t miss. It lasts five hours. Ancient Tivoli is a stunning hilltop town that was once the lavish destination of Italy’s powerful and wealthy. You will encounter many ancient architectural styles here, and you will see the elegant Renaissance palace and garden . Originally, they built Villa d’Este for Emperor Hadrian in the second century.

15. Rome in a Day: Colosseum, Vatican & Historic Rome

Rome has more than you can see in a day, and even arguably in a week. However, if you don’t have much time and would like to see the highlights, this is one of the Italy day tours that will guide you through the art , history, architecture, and culture.

During this tour, you get skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums and the Colosseum. You will also see Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain.

16. Day Trip from Naples: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Arguably one of the most fascinating sites in all of Italy, Pompeii gives us a unique look into the life of ancient Romans before the natural disaster that happened 2,000 years ago. You will learn everything about the ecological history here from a professional volcanologist.

17. Boat Tour “A day in the Egadi Islands” from Trapani

One of the fascinating Italy day tours that take you to Egadi Islands, this tour lets you bypass the crowded tourist boats. At the same time, you get the chance to dive, swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters around Levanzo and Favignana. This is one of the best day tours in Italy because you can go snorkeling, and they provide the equipment.

18. Day Tour on a Luxury Catamaran to the Maddalena Archipelago

Coming with a comfortable restroom-equipped catamaran, the tour will take you to all of the most important sites in the Maddalena Archipelago. Enjoy snorkeling, and at the end of the trip, you will get a traditional Sardinian lunch aboard the catamaran with vegetarian and seafood options available. This full-day tour that lasts seven to eight hours includes alcoholic beverages.

19. Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan

Taken on a tour with a local and experienced guide who speaks English, you will encounter the best of Verona, which includes the Roman Arena, the Piazza delle Erbe, and the house of Juliet from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. You can call out to Romeo from the balcony. You will see the beautiful town of Sirmione, which has a medieval castle overlooking the lake. The whole town has medieval streets to explore and wander. This town is also famous for its thermal springs.

You will eat lunch in the town of Sirmione, and if you like wine, you may want to try the Bardolino, which is the most representative wine of this region.

20. Ostia Antica Tour from Rome

One of the lesser-known archaeological sites of Italy, Italy day tours to Ostia Antica will leave you astounded since this was once an ancient Roman city and port found at the mouth of the Tiber River. Any history fanatics will love this because it’s one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities. Some say that it even rivals that of Pompeii.

This tour includes headphones so that you can hear your tour guide, and it gives you an educational but engaging historic commentary on this archaeological site. It is recommended that you take on this tour with a group of 10 or less for a more intimate experience. When you buy the ticket, it allows you to skip the lines to get into the attraction quicker.

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10 Best Day Trips in Italy

By Kris Fordham

From Rome: Castelli Romani

Just twelve miles southeast of Rome , the verdant and tranquil Castelli Romani (Roman Castles) region is the perfect refuge from the crowded streets of the Eternal City. Besides castles , you’ll find volcanic lakes and historic villages concentrated around Lake Albano and the Castelli Romani Regional Park. Pay a visit to the picturesque village of Castel Gandolfo, where you can tour the Pope’s summer residence and enjoy dramatic views over Lake Albano. Make sure to stop for lunch in Frascati, a town loved by Romans for its terrific food scene and delicious white wine of the same name.

How to get there: You can drive to any of the Castelli Romani towns in around 30 minutes, but a train from Roma Termini is just as fast and saves you from the stress of having to drive in Rome . Trains to Castel Gandolfo and Frascati leave Roma Termini every hour, and cost $2.40 (€2.10) each way.

From Florence: Chianti

Though you’ll never run out of things to do in Florence , leave room in your itinerary for a quick wine-country getaway. Go truffle hunting and tasting at Ruffino’s sprawling Poggio Casciano estate, visit the Antinori winery and sip Chianti Classico at its source, and stop into one of the area's picturesque towns (we like Strada, Greve, and Panzano) for the kind of hearty, homemade country cuisine you won’t find in Florence.

How to get there: Unfortunately, public transportation won’t get you to most of Chianti’s cantine , so driving is your only option. From Florence, cruise south on the SS22 for 30 minutes until you reach the heart of the Chianti wine region.

From Venice: The Dolomites

Turin doesn't have the only Italian mountains worth climbing: just north of Venice , you’ll find the spectacular, UNESCO-listed Dolomite mountain range . You can access the mountains via the 86-mile Great Dolomites Road, one of the world’s most breathtaking alpine drives. Stop at Falzarego Pass for a ride on the Lagazuoi Cable Car (it takes you to the top of Mount Lagazuoi, where you can enjoy the best views over the Dolomites’ craggy, sawtooth peaks) or a quick ski, if the weather allows.

How to get there: From Venice, drive north for two hours to Cortina d’Ampezzo, the start of the Great Dolomites Road. From here, it’s another 30-minute drive up to Falzarego Pass. If it’s your first time driving in Italy, it’s best to book a day trip from Venice with a reputable tour company, as the roads are narrow and winding (and the scenery dangerously distracting). Viator offers well-curated day trips from Venice to the Dolomites all year round, starting at $150.

From Milan: Lake Iseo

Lake Como might be more famous, but Lake Iseo ’s low-key vibe and laid-back charm makes it the ideal one-day getaway from buzzy Milan . Iseo, Lombardy’s fourth-largest lake, has the fairytale views and pastel-colored villages of Como, without the thick summer crowds and inflated prices. Plus, there’s wine! The neighboring Franciacorta region is home to the best sparkling wine in Italy (sorry, Prosecco). Enjoy it paired with fresh-grilled lake trout at La Foresta on Mount Isola—a mountain island that soars dramatically from the lake’s center.

How to get there: It’s convenient to get to Lake Iseo from Milan by car or train. If you’re driving, simply head east on the A4 towards Bergamo, exiting at the Sarnico junction to reach the lake’s western shore (the drive takes about an hour and a half). Otherwise, hop on a train from Milano Centrale to Brescia, switching there for trains to Iseo or Sulzano (the whole trip also takes an hour and a half and costs $10.50, or €9.20, each way).

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

From Naples: Caserta

Though the Amalfi Coast is the most obvious day trip from Naples, you’ll likely want to spend more than just a day there ( road trip , anyone?). Caserta, on the other hand, is a relatively under-the-radar destination you can get to in 40 minutes and enjoy thoroughly in a single day. Its main attraction is the UNESCO–listed Reggia di Caserta, a spectacular, 18th-century royal palace dubbed the Italian Versailles (it’s technically even larger than Versailles, with a whopping 1,200 rooms). Spend the morning gawking at its spectacular frescoes, the afternoon roaming its lush, 300-acre gardens, and then grab a pizza at Masanielli for dinner before heading back to Naples.

How to get there: A train ride from Napoli Centrale will get you to Caserta in just 40 minutes ($4.45, or €3.90, one way). From Caserta station, it’s a five-minute walk to the palace.

From Turin: Alba

You’ll probably never want to leave the “Paris of Italy” once you get there, but trust us: You’ll want to go to Alba. Nestled in the heart of the Langhe wine region, Alba is known for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, its chocolate (it’s the birthplace of Ferrero Rocher and Nutella ) and above all, its white truffles. Alba’s annual white truffle festival attracts chefs and gourmands from around the globe every fall, but you can enjoy Alba’s famous white truffles all year round. Go to any trattoria (it’s impossible not to eat well in this little gastronomic wonderland) and ask for tajarin , a pasta dish consisting of Piedmontese tagliolini dressed in butter and cheese and topped with shaved white truffles.

How to get there: It takes just an hour to drive from Turin to Alba via the A6 towards Savona. Alternatively, you can take the train from Torino Lingotto station directly to Alba in the same length of time ($6.50, or €5.75, one way).

From Verona: Lake Garda

Thanks to its diverse and dramatic landscape, Italy’s largest lake makes for a great day trip, no matter what you’re into. At the mountainous, windswept northern end, nature-lovers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, windsurfing and paragliding, while its southern end—peppered with pretty lakefront promenades and majestic palazzi—is ideal for more cultural and leisurely pursuits. Sirmione, in particular, is worth a visit for its relaxing thermal baths and beautiful 13th-century castle. Juliet would approve.

How to get there: Driving is quick and easy: just head east on the A4 from Verona for 45 minutes and then exit at Sirmione or Peschiera. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Verona to Sirmione or Peschiera ( Line 26 ) or Garda ( Lines 163 and 162 ). Each ride takes about an hour and costs €3.50 ($4) one way.

From Bologna: The Adriatic Coast

Though it’s hard to drag yourself from the food mecca that is Bologna, you’ll find buzzy, sun-kissed beaches—and the freshest fritto misto —a little over an hour’s drive away. The Adriatic Coast might not be as scenic or dramatic as the Mediterranean, but its wide, sandy beaches and lively seaside towns (frequented largely by locals, not tourists) are still worth exploring for the day. Cattolica and neighboring Gabbice Mare are particularly lovely with their sprawling golden beaches, great food, and multitudes of theater, concerts, and other events in the summer.

How to get there: Drive west on the A14 towards the coast and exit at Cattolica. Alternatively, hop on a train from Bologna Centrale to Cattolica Giovanni-Gabbice station (the trip takes an hour and costs $12.85, or €11.30, one way).

From Palermo: Zingaro Nature Reserve

Sure, Palermo’s beaches are nice, but some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy—if not the entire world—are within easy day-tripping distance. The Zingaro Nature Reserve, on the Gulf of Castellammare, is home to a collection of stunning, white-sand beaches framed by steep cliffs. Though each of its beaches and secret coves are stunning, we like Cala Tonnarella for its seclusion and calm, Bermuda-blue waters.

How to get there: From Palermo, drive west on the E90 and take the exit for Castellammare-Del Golfo. Make sure to park at the north entrance of the reserve for easiest access to Cala Tonnarella (it’s an easy 10-15 minutes walk from there).

From Genoa: Camogli

Camogli isn’t exactly a secret anymore , but it’s still a must if you happen to be staying in the Ligurian capital . Unlike the narrow, tourist-congested streets of Portofino, this sleepy, colorful port town is home to quiet, open piazzas, and plenty of nature paths that lead to spectacular coastal views. We suggest strolling the main promenade and hiking up to San Rocco church in the morning, then taking the ferry over to the 1,500-year-old San Fruttuoso village in the afternoon. Stop in for some spaghetti alle vongole (with clams) at Da Paolo before heading back to Genoa.

How to get there: Though Camogli is only a half-hour drive from Genoa on the A12, the train to Camogli gets you there just as fast from Genova Brignole station and costs only $6.80 (€6) for a return trip.

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Day trip and excursions in Italy

Day trips from Rome, Milan, Florence and all main Italian cities

Full day trip to Mount Etna with trek and lunch from Catania

Vespa experience around the hills and vineyards of Chianti

Day Tour of Tuscany from Florence: San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni and Chianti

Full hiking day trip to Mount Etna from Taormina with Sicilian lunch

Private Tuscany Tour: Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti and Pisa

Gourmet Chianti Tour with Wine Tasting and Tuscan Lunch

Full-day trip to the Capital of Barocco: Siracusa, Ortigia and Noto from Taormina

Semi-Private Tour by Electric-Bike from Florence to the Chianti region

Excursion to Erice and Marsala from Palermo with lunch and wine and oil tasting

Create your tailor-made itinerary in Italy!

Day Trips and Excursions in Apulia

Day Trips and Excursions in Sicily

Day Trips and Excursions from Verona & Lake Garda

Day Trips and Excursions from Bologna

Day Trips and Excursions in Sardinia

Day Trips and Excursions in Milan

Day Trips and Excursions from Naples

Day Trips and Excursions from Venice

Day Trips and Excursions in Tuscany

Day Trips and Excursions from Florence

Day Trips and Excursions from Rome

Make a better use of your time in Italy and join ours one-day excursions to discover every enchanting city. Do not miss anything! Choose between our organized excursions on our website and visit your favourite cities, villages, landscapes or secret spots. After visiting the Colosseum, the Vatican City and the Roman Forum in Rome , take one day off and discover the best day trips from Rome . Buckle up, relax and get ready to experience a special day trip from the eternal city. Visit Ostia Antica and the ancient port of Rome, explore Castelli Romani to discover extraordinary culinary tradition or visit the Villas of the emperors in Tivoli. If you would rather choose a daily excursion from Florence , you should really check our organized shore excursions from Florence , which will let you discover the ancient traditions of the manufacture of wine and oil and the pure green of its landscapes or visit the small villages and boroughs in Tuscany area . If you are visiting the enchanting city of Venice you should also consider a day trip to visit incredible places in the North of Italy such as the Dolomites, Valpolicella and the romantic Verona or the world-famous Lake Garda or the sophisticated Bologna and much else. Choose your favourite shore excursion in Italy and discover the wonders of our country with a daily trip from your beloved cities!

Italy day tours and one day excursions

Reviews for day trips & excursions, all the places we visited and the nice lunch., tuscany | day tour of tuscany from florence: san gimignano, siena, monteriggioni and chianti, this tour was a surprise., tuscany | tuscany tour: montepulciano, montalcino and val d'orcia wine roads, we were really impressed with our tour guide. we covered a lot., rome | full day tour to pompeii and naples, departing from rome, best tours and activities in italy.

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How To Spend 7 Days In Italy – Six 7-Day Italy Itineraries Written By An Italian

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2024

Let’s start with the premise that seven days in Italy aren’t enough to see everything my beautiful country has to offer.

I’m Italian, I lived in Italy for 18 years and have travelled extensively around it, yet there are still places I haven’t been to.

But don’t let that deter you from visiting the “Bel Paese”. If you only have one week in Italy, you can still have an amazing trip and see many gorgeous sights that will leave you speechless.

In this Italy travel guide I have included everything you need to know to have an awesome weeklong trip.

Chilling by the Colosseum in Rome

Here you will find information on how to get around Italy, where to stay in each city and sample itineraries designed to make the most of your seven days in Italy.

These Italy 7-day itineraries are designed around specific interests or regions. Whether you’re looking for an active outdoor holiday, for a relaxing city break or a peaceful beach holiday, here you’ll find an itinerary for you.

These Italy itineraries are a guidance, which you can pick and choose based on your personal interests. So without further ado, let’s dive in and start planning the best week in Italy!

• 1 How to get around Italy
• 2.1 Days 1 & 2: Rome
• 2.2 Days 3 & 4: Florence
• 2.3 Day 5: Milan
• 2.4 Days 6 & 7: Venice
• 3.1 Days 1 & 2: Cinque Terre
• 3.2 Days 3 & 4: Tuscany
• 3.3 Day 5: Lake Como
• 3.4 Days 6 & 7: Trentino
• 4.1 Days 1 & 2: Golfo di Orosei
• 4.2 Days 3 – 5: Palau
• 4.3 Days 6 & 7: Stintino
• 5.1 Days 1 & 2: Venice
• 5.2 Day 3: Milano
• 5.3 Day 4: Lake Como
• 5.4 Day 5: Florence
• 5.5 Days 6 & 7: Cinque Terre
• 6.1 Days 1 & 2: Rome
• 6.2 Days 3 – 6: Naples & Amalfi Coast
• 6.3 Days 6 & 7: Matera
• 7.1 Days 1 – 7: Eastern Sicily

Sunset over the perched colourful houses of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, Italy

How to get around Italy

There are many different ways to travel around Italy, and the best way to do so ultimately depends on your Italy trip budget and destination.

I’m a fan of train travel, and always recommend it even for travelling around Europe .

While the Italian train system might not be the most efficient or punctual, it allows you to relax and enjoy the views, without stressing about driving.

Also, train stations in Italy are usually in the city centre, so that you can hit the road running without having to waste time finding parking.

However if you’re planning to head a bit more remote, renting a car is the best option as it will give you the most flexibility.

It can also be considerably cheaper than train travel, especially if you’re travelling with friends and splitting the cost.

Sunset over Milan from the rooftop of the Duomo, Italy

Italy 7-day itinerary for culture & city lovers

This 7-day Italy itinerary focuses on the main highlights and must-sees of Italy.

While it’s a city-heavy itinerary, especially well suited for those who have an interest in culture and history, it goes to all the main sights in Italy, and is therefore well suited also for any first time visitors.

It’s perfect for those who want to see all the famous spots in Italy in one go, and who don’t mind having an action packed and busy travel schedule.

Watching the sunset over the Vatican and Ponte Sant’Angelo from Ponte Umberto in Rome

If you love cities and want to tick off all the famous Italian attractions in one trip, here is my suggested Italy 7-day itinerary.

Day 1: Rome

Day 2: Rome

Day 3: Florence

Day 4: Florence

Day 5: Milano

Day 6: Venice

Day 7: Venice

Here is a breakdown of the best things to do in each city, and how to spend your days in this Italian itinerary.

Exploring the rooftop of the Duomo cathedral in Milan, Italy

Days 1 & 2: Rome

Every Italy bucket list features a visit to Rome, so it only seemed fair to kick off this Italy itinerary the same way. The Eternal City is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe, and you’ll soon find out why.

Rome is a basically an open-air museum, where you will find relics of ancient times dotted all over the city.

From the Roman Forums to the Colosseum, or from the Trevi Fountain to the Vatican, there is beauty in every corner of Rome.

I had a Roman boyfriend and spent many months living in Rome, and can highly recommend spending at least two days in Italy’s capital.

While it’s not enough to discover it all, it will give you plenty of time to see all the main sights.

When deciding how many days to spend in Rome , I always suggest spending at least two or three days in Rome , but if you’re on a tight Italy itinerary, here are my suggestions for how to spend one day in Rome .

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND TWO DAYS IN ROME |

Exploring the Pantheon in Rome

I suggest spending one day exploring the eastern side of Trastevere River, seeing all the main tourist sights like Piazza di Spagna, the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. You’ll also see some iconic views over the Roman skyline .

You can then spend the second day on the western side of Trastevere, discovering this gorgeous neighbourhood and all its delicious restaurants. Here you’ll also find many Roman picture perfect spots .

Make sure to spend some time exploring Rome after the sun goes down. Rome at night is magical, and seeing all the famous attractions lit up for the night is a unique experience.

If you want to go inside main attractions like the Vatican Museums to see the Sixtin Chapel or the Colosseum I highly recommend buying skip-the-queue tickets online .

These places get very busy, and if you only have two days in Rome you don’t want to spend them waiting in line!

Wandering up the famous Spanish Steps towards Trinità dei Monti in Rome

Best tours to do in Rome

Here are some great tours with very positive reviews worth checking out in Rome (both day tours and night tours )!

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry   – Like I already said, if you only have two days in Rome you don’t want to waste part of that time queuing up for things! 

Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Priority Tickets – Same goes for the Colosseum, don’t waste time and don’t miss out on this awesome Italian attraction!

Rome: Street Food Tour with Local Guide – Italians take food very seriously, the best way to discover true Roman cuisine is with a local!

The Basilica di San Pietro and main square of the Vatican in Rome

The famous Altare della Patria in Rome

Where to stay in Rome

If you want to splurge a little, you could choose a hotel near the Colosseum , one near the Pantheon or any of these lovely Rome AirBnbs . Alternatively, check out these great places to stay in Rome for every budget. 

Budget:  Palladini Hostel – This hostel is super central, close to the train station and all the action of Rome, with spacious dorms and a lively atmosphere

Mid-range:   Tridente Rooms – The rooms of this bnb are simple but spacious, and it’s right next to Villa Borghese, in the heart of all the Rome attractions

Luxury:   Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection – Perfect if you want to treat yourself, this hotel is beautifully decorated and very conveniently located in the centre of Rome

Exploring Piazza Navona in Rome

Days 3 & 4: Florence

After exploring Rome, jump on a train and head to Florence, Italy’s art capital! This iconic city is home to many breath taking museums, churches, art galleries and streets.

In Florence you will also find many awesome restaurants, where you can taste delicious Italian food. My personal favourite place to eat in Florence was the Mercato Centrale, as it has a more casual street food vibe.

During your two days in Florence you have to visit the gorgeous Duomo of Florence, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio and of course, watch the sunset over the roofs of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE FLORENCE 2-DAY ITINERARY |

Sunset over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo

Best Florence tours

Here are some tours with awesome reviews to check out for your time in Florence.

Florence: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket – Skip the queue for your visit to the Uffizi!

Florence: City Walking Tours with entry to Accademia – Discover Florence on foot with a local guide, and then explore the Accademia with them!

Florence: Small-Group Tour on E-Bike – Try something a little different and discover Florence by bike!

Getting up close to the majestic Duomo of Florence

Where to stay in Florence

Here are some lovely places to stay in Florence for every budget.

Budget: Plus Florence   – This hostel has spacious dorms, a sociable atmosphere and a spectacular rooftop with views over the Florence skyline.

Mid-range: Palazzo Riblet   – I stayed here when I visited Florence with my mum and can highly recommend it. This family run hotel is situated in a historical building, with affrescos on the ceiling and in a great location.

Luxury: Firenze Rentals Corso 12 – This lovely apartment has a balcony directly overlooking the Duomo of Florence. It doesn’t really get any better than this!

Light reflections at the Ponte Vecchio in Florence

Day 5: Milan

Milan doesn’t always feature on key Italian must-see bucket lists, but it’s my hometown and I wanted to include it. Milan is considered the city of fashion and the economic capital of Italy.

It’s also one of the most international and cosmopolitan cities in Italy, offering a vibrant Milanese nightlife and diverse dining scene.

The perfect visit to Milan combines a bit of sightseeing with Italian fine dining and, of course, the aperitivo experience.  Milan is an easy city to explore in one day, since all the main attractions are close to the city centre.

You can head out to explore it on foot and visit the Duomo Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Castello Sforzesco and Arco della Pace.

For your traditional Milanese aperitivo you can then grab a spritz at one of the many bars by Arco della Pace, or head to the hipster Navigli neighbourhood.

Even if you visit Milan in winter , you can still do all this, since bars and restaurants are equipped with outdoors heating. I actually prefer it than in summer, since there are less tourists and crowds around.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN MILAN IN ONE DAY |

Piazza del Duomo in Milan, Italy

Best tours in Milan

Here are some of the best tours you can’t miss during your time in Milan.

Milan: Fast-Track Milan Cathedral and Terraces Guided Tour –  Discover the beautiful Duomo and its stunning rooftop, without having to waste time queuing!

Best of Milan Tour with Skip-the-Line to Duomo & Last Supper   – For the art lovers, no visit to Milan would be complete without seeing the Last Supper!

Milan: Grand City Highlights E-Bike Tour – Discover all the highlights of Milan on bike!

Admiring the perfect symmetry of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, Italy

Where to stay in Milan

Even if you’re only spending one day in Milan, you’ll likely still have to sleep here in between train journeys. There are lots of cool places to stay in Milan .

Budget:   Ostello Bello – There are two hostels of this chain around Milan and both are good budget options, with a lively atmosphere, spacious dorms and convenient central locations

Mid-range:   Ibis Milano Centro – Part of the Ibis chain, this is a good mid-range hotel, with a guaranteed standard of room set up and a great central location

Luxury:   Galleria Vik Milano – If you’re looking to splurge a bit, this is the place to do so. Located in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, it couldn’t get any more central than this, with stunning views over the galleria just outside your window

Castello Sforzesco in Milan, Italy

Days 6 & 7: Venice

Read any Europe bucket list and you will very likely find going for a gondola ride on there. One brief look at the picturesque canals of Venice, its romantic gondolas and picture perfect corners and you will understand why.

With its canals and gondolas, Venice is completely different from any other city in the world, and is a must-see on any Italy itinerary. I’ve been to Venice multiple times and every time it surprises me.

I recommend spending at least one day here, seeing all the main sights like Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge, but also simply to walk around the city and get lost in its picturesque side streets.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN VENICE |

Exploring the side streets, canals and bridges of Venice, Italy

Best Venice tours

Book one of these highly rated tours for your time in Venice!

Venice: Private Gondola Ride to Rialto Bridge   – Go for a private gondola ride amongst the most beautiful canals of Venice!

Venice: Doge’s Palace Priority Admission Ticket   – Skip the queue and visit this iconic site in Venice!

Venice: Small Group Wine Tasting and Food Tour with a Local   – Go for a guided tour of all the best places to eat and drink in Venice with a local guide!

Enjoying my gondola cruise around Venice

Our gondola ride took us close to Rialto Bridge

Where to stay in Venice

Here are some great accommodation options in Venice for every budget.

Budget: Combo Venezia   – This hostel has a combination of modern dorms and a traditional courtyard. It’s also in a great location and has a very sociable atmosphere.

Mid-range: Hotel alle Guglie – I stayed here with my mum and found it a perfect compromise for those looking for a comfortable room, great location and affordable price.

Luxury: Ai Patrizi di Venezia   – These luxury apartments are the perfect place to treat yourself during your Venice stay.

Sunset in Venice, Italy, at the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

Sunset on the grand canal in Venice from Ponte di Rialto

7 days in Italy for nature lovers

If you don’t really care for cities, I have a different Italy 7-day itinerary for you. This itinerary goes to spots that are equally famous and recognisably Italian, but with a bigger outdoors focus.

This itinerary is perfect for people who want to spend large amounts of time outside, preferably hiking, exploring or also doing adventurous activities.

While it doesn’t go to any of the most famous Italian cities, the places in this itinerary are still recognisably Italian, so that you can enjoy your outdoors and adventure holiday while still being able to say you were in Italy.

The colourful houses of Manarola in Cinque Terre

If you’ve already seen the main cities in Italy, or aren’t interested in seeing them, and prefer spending time in nature, this is the perfect 7-day itinerary for you.

Day 1: Cinque Terre

Day 2: Cinque Terre

Day 3: Tuscany

Day 4: Tuscany

Day 5: Lake Como

Day 6: Trentino

Day 7: Trentino

If you have longer than seven days, this is an itinerary that you can easily stretch, taking your time exploring the beautiful nature and spending ten days in Italy or more.

Beautiful reflections at Lake Welsperg in Trentino, Italy

Days 1 & 2: Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is one of my favourite places in Italy. With its colourful houses, green hills and turquoise sea, it’s one of the most picturesque places in Italy. It’s also a great destination for hiking lovers.

Cinque Terre (or Five Lands in English) is the name given to the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. These are the most iconic towns in the area, which give the name to the national park.

There is a beautiful 12.5km hiking trail called Il Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) that connects all five towns. It has gorgeous views over the towns, the cliffs and sea, which make it one of the most beautiful hikes in the world.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 OR 3 EPIC DAYS IN CINQUE TERRE |

Admiring the colourful houses of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, Italy

Although you might see many photos on Instagram of girls twirling in colourful dresses here, don’t let that fool you. The Sentiero Azzurro can be a tough hike, and you will need all your usual hiking essentials .  

I recommend spending a whole day hiking the Sentiero Azzurro and exploring the cute town centres of the Cinque Terre towns.

You can then spend the second day enjoying the beaches, hiking lesser known trails in the national park or discovering the nearby town of Porto Venere, often referred to as the Sixth Land but rarely present in Italy itineraries.

Admiring the colourful houses of Manarola, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy

Admiring the colourful houses of Vernazza, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy

Best tours in Cinque Terre

You can explore Cinque Terre on foot by hiking the Sentiero Azzurro, but these highly rated tours can add a special something to your holiday!

Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour   – Admire the coloured houses of Cinque Terre as the sun goes down and the sky turns golden!

From Monterosso: Cinque Terre Kayak Tour – Combine a workout with a unique experience, and see Cinque Terre from a completely different angle!

From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Full-Day Boat Tour   – Spend a whole day sailing along the beautiful Ligurian coastline.

The coastline of Cinque Terre – can you spot Vernazza in the distance?

Just outside Monterosso, the first town in Cinque Terre, about to set off along the Sentiero Azzurro

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

While Cinque Terre is absolutely gorgeous, it’s also a fairly expensive destination. I always say the best place to stay in Cinque Terre is actually in La Spezia, a city 15 minutes train away.

Here are some accommodation options for every budget.

Budget:  Grand Hostel Manin   – This hostel has spacious dorms, a friendly atmosphere and is located in the heart of La Spezia. It’s the perfect place to use as base to explore Cinque Terre on a budget!

Mid-range:  ALTIDO Villa Monterosso Apartment Bellavista   – This modern villa is tastefully decorated, with gorgeous views of the Ligurian coastline and sea. It’s also in an excellent position in Monterosso.

Luxury:  La Vista di Marina by The First   – This apartment combines modern furnishing with exposed bricks for a rustic vibe, plus spacious rooms and white décor for an airy feel. It also has a spectacular terrace with view over the sea and iconic perched houses of Riomaggiore.

Manarola, one of the main towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre

Days 3 & 4: Tuscany

While Tuscany is mostly famous for its gorgeous cities like Pisa , Florence and Siena, the Tuscan countryside is amongst the most beautiful nature spots in Italy.

Imagine rolling green hills, yellow wheat fields and country roads lined by picturesque trees. Walking around the Tuscany countryside will feel like stepping into an old movie.

In Tuscany you will also find many unique places to stay, like renovated barn houses or medieval towns turned to hotels.

You can spend a few days in one of these unique hotels, walking in the nearby fields and then cooling down on poolside as the sun sets over the Tuscan hills.

| READ MORE: BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TUSCANY |

View over the Tuscan countryside

Best Tuscany tours

Discover some of the highlights of Tuscany with these highly rated tours.

Pienza and Montepulciano Wine Tour from Siena   – See some of the most beautiful spots in Tuscany and taste delicious local wine, it’s a two-in-one tour!

San Gimignano, Siena, Chianti Guided Tour from Florence – Are you ready to discover one of the most beautiful parts of Tuscany and Italy?

Chianti Wineries Tour with Food & Wine Tasting – No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a bit of Chianti wine tasting and, obviously, local Italian food!

Piazza del Campo in Siena

Where to stay in Tuscany

Below listed a variety of hotels for every budget located in the best regions of Tuscany.

Budget: Hotel Cecile   – A good budget option, with finely decorated rooms and conveniently located in Pisa.

Mid-range: Hotel Athena – This is where I stayed when I visited Siena. With spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace with awesome countryside views, it’s a great place to base yourself during your Tuscany adventures.

Luxury: COMO Castello Del Nero – As the name suggests, this place is an actual castle. Here you can enjoy a magical stay to relax during your Italy adventures.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

If you love hiking, you have to pay Lake Como a visit.

Many travellers visit this iconic location due to the fame of stars who have villas on the lakeshore. However, what they’re missing out on are the epic views from the surrounding mountains.

Lake Como is surrounded by hills and mountains, which give it incredible 360 views over the neighbouring countryside, all the way to the Swiss Alps.

If you’re up for a challenge you can hike up Monte San Primo, then head to Bellagio for a refreshing aperitivo.

For those who don’t want a challenging hike you can still enjoy the beauties of the lake, maybe going for a relaxing sail on the lake or a peaceful stroll along the lakeshore.

| READ MORE: 60+ AMAZING QUOTES ABOUT ITALY |

The picturesque streets and views of Bellagio in Lake Como, Italy

Best tours in Lake Como

Live incredible experiences with these highly rated tours in Lake Como.

Lake Como: Sailing Boat Experience – This is one of the best boat tours in Lake Como ! Sail along this beautiful lake, admire the shore and enjoy Lake Como from a different perspective.

Lake Como: Winery Tour with Wine Tasting   – Because we haven’t had quite enough wine tasting tours yet in this Italy itinerary.

Lake Como: Easy Mountain Trek with Funicular & Boat Ride – All the sight seeing and best activities in one tour!

Views over Lake Como from Essentia Guest House

Bellagio as seen from the ferry

Where to stay in Lake Como

Many people only visit Lake Como on a day trip from Milan , but choosing to stay in Lake Como is the best thing you can do! Here are some accommodation options for every budget in different locations along Lake Como.

Budget: Hotel Tre Rose  – With spacious rooms and lovely views, it’s the perfect place to stay for those who don’t want to break the bank.

Mid-range: Hotel Argegno   – Perfect for those who want a treat and great view at affordable prices.

Luxury: Borgo Le Terrazze   – With its balconies, panoramic pool and incredible views, it’s the place to be if you want to treat yourself.

The outdoors area and view at Essentia Guest House in Lake Como

Days 6 & 7: Trentino

Regardless of whether you’re visiting in Italy in winter or summer, the Italian Alps and Trentino deserve a visit.

They’re perfect in winter for skiers and snow sports fans, whilst in summer they’re ideal for hikers, cyclers and mountain lovers.

Trentino is home to many of the best ski resorts in Italy , as well as stunning alpine lakes like Lago di Carezza .

You can easily spend two days enjoying the beautiful nature and activities Trentino has to offer, while also tasting the delicious local cuisine.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN TRENTINO IN SUMMER |

Hiking at Rolle Pass in Trentino

Best tours in Trentino

Make the most of your time in Trentino with this awesome tours.

Rafting Down Noce River in Val di Sole – Hope you’re ready for a bit of adrenaline!

Dolomites Full Day Excursion from Bolzano   – This tour is the easiest way to see it all!

Trento: Cooking Class at a Local’s Home – While the focus of this itinerary is nature, no Italy itinerary would be complete without some delicious local food!

Kayaking in Lake Caldonazzo, Trentino

Where to stay in Trentino

Here are some awesome places to stay in Trentino for every budget, both in the cities and beyond.

Budget: Hi Hotels – Located in the centre of Trento, this lovely hotel offers city views, spacious rooms and modern furnishing at an affordable price.

Mid-range: Miravalle – Combine an infinity pool with epic views and traditional Italian design and you have a winner!

Luxury: Hotel Chalet Al Foss – With its unique rooms and infinity pools, this is the perfect place to treat yourself.

Stand up paddling in Lake Caldonazzo, Trentino

A 7-day Italy itinerary for beach lovers

Italy is home to many gorgeous beaches. If you’re looking for a unique Italian beach holiday, this is the itinerary for you.

This itinerary is best suited for those who have already been to Italy and have already seen all (or most) of the main sights, since it doesn’t go to any of the famous spots in Italy.

My suggested Italy 1 week itinerary for beach lovers is focused on the gorgeous island of Sardinia. I always spend my summers in Sardinia, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best beach destinations in the world .

If you want to make the most of your Sardinian beach holiday, this is my suggested itinerary.

Days 1 & 2: Golfo di Orosei

Days 3 – 5: palau, days 6 & 7: stintino.

Cala Corsara on the island of Spargi in Sardinia in August (a bit too many boats!)

Despite spending all my summers in Italy ever since I was a child, I only visited the Golfo di Orosei for the first time this year, and I can honestly say it’s one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever seen.

Imagine a gulf 20km wide, with dramatic tall cliffs, mysterious caves, white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water. It’s an incredibly scenic place, and one that will leave you speechless.

This part of Sardinia is very wild, and you can only reach most beaches by boat (or hike for 1-3 hours).

If you’re feeling adventurous I recommend renting a kayak from Prima Sardegna for two days in Cala Gonone, and then spending a night camping in Cala Luna.

We did this and it was the highlight of our Sardinia trip. At 5:30PM all the day tours will leave, and you will be left to enjoy a magical beach alone.

Exploring the Golfo di Orosei and Cala Luna by kayak in Sardinia, Italy

Where to stay in the Golfo di Orosei

Obviously camping on a beach isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If you prefer to stay sleep in a bed and visit the beaches of the Golfo di Orosei on a boat trip, then I recommend staying in Cala Gonone.

Cala Gonone is where all the tours start. Here are some accommodation options in Cala Gonone for every budget.

Budget: B&B Cala Luna   – This cozy bnb is very affordable and well located in Cala Gonone.

Mid-range: BUE MARINO Hotel – This hotel has an awesome rooftop terrace with epic views and spacious rooms at an affordable price.

Luxury: Hotel Villa Gustui Maris – With its incredible pool and view it’s without a doubt the best place to spoil yourself in Cala Gonone.

The famous caves of Cala Gonone in Sardinia, Italy

Cala Fuili in the Golfo di Orosei

Best Golfo di Orosei tours

If you don’t fancy kayaking, this Dinghy Rental in the Gulf of Orosei with Lunch has excellent ratings, and will take you to see everything in the Golfo di Orosei in one day.

The beautiful water and coastline of the Golfo di Orosei seen from our kayak

This is the place where I have spent all my summers since I was 1 month old. I may be a little biased, but I believe it’s home to some truly gorgeous beaches and deserves at least three full days of your Italy itinerary.

You need to spend one day doing a boat tour of the Arcipelago della Maddalena, to the islands of Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and Razzoli. I say need because these islands are truly stunning.

Imagine picture perfect white sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise water, surrounded by pink granite rocks. The tours usually spend the whole day at the islands, beach hopping between different hidden coves.

After that you can spend one day exploring the islands of Maddalena and Caprera, preferably by scooter. These islands are both quite wild, and make for awesome scooter rides as well as being home to gorgeous beaches.

On your final day you can relax at one of the many beaches close to Palau, maybe go for a sunset hike to Capo d’Orso or go to Porto Pollo to enjoy a sunset drink while watching the windsurfers and kitesurfers zipping past.

| READ MORE: THE BEST CATAMARAN TOUR OF THE MADDALENA NATIONAL PARK |

Enjoying our catamaran tour in the Archipelago of Maddalena in Sardinia, Italy

The best Palau & Maddalena tour

For an incredible day in the Archipelago of Maddalena, choose this Full-Day Catamaran Tour . You get a spacious boat, a knowledgeable crew, gorgeous beaches and a delicious local lunch. What more could you need?

Click below to see prices & availability for your chosen date!

Swimming in Sardinia, Italy, shot on DJI Spark

Admiring the crystal clear water of Spargi Island

Where to stay in Palau

I might be biased, but I genuinely believe Tiffany Palau is the best place to stay in Palau.

Located in the heart of Palau, this lovely apartment has everything you need; a friendly host, a beach within walking distance and a cozy vibe.

Jumping in the crystal clear water of the natural pools of Budelli

This is another part of Sardinia that I only recently explored. Less fancy than the Palau area, but not as wild as the Golfo di Orosei, the area around Stintino is home to some incredible beaches.

By far the most famous beach in the area is La Pelosa; a huge beach with a characteristic Sardinian “nuraghe” overlooking it, soft white sand and an incredibly clear turquoise water.

You’ll make the most of this beach if you’re visiting Sardinia in the low season , as it can get incredibly busy in summer. You can spend a day at La Pelosa beach and then head to the Capo Caccia cliffs for a DIY sunset aperitivo.

On your second day in Stintino another must-see is doing a boat tour to Asinara Island.

Here you will spend an awesome day exploring hidden coves, swimming in turquoise water and exploring the now abandoned jail of Asinara Island.

Floating away at the famous La Pelosa Beach in Stintino, Italy

Where to stay in Stintino

Here are some awesome accommodation suggestions for every budget in and around Stintino.

Budget: Lina Hotel – This cosy hotel is located in a prime spot by the Stintino town centre.

Mid-range: Club Esse Roccaruja – Located in a prime spot by La Pelosa Beach, this affordable hotel is popular amongst couples and families.

Luxury: Park Hotel Asinara – Treat yourself with a relaxing stay at this wonderful hotel with pool and view.

Chilling at the famous La Pelosa Beach in Stintino

Best tours in Stintino

The only must-do tour in this part of Sardinia is this epic Asinara Island Tour .

Chilling with my friends during a dinghy tour of Asinara Island in Sardinia, Italy

7 days in Northern Italy

This Italy 7-day itinerary focuses on the north of Italy. It’s perfect for those who are looking to see many iconic Italian sights, but who don’t fancy spending hours on a train crossing the country.

It’s a perfect blend of both cities and nature, and it will allow you to experience a bit of both during your week in Italy. It’s also well suited for those who have already been to Rome, and want to explore more of Italy.

Here is my suggestion for a northern Italy 7-day itinerary.

Day 1: Venice

Day 2: Venice

Day 3: Milano

Day 4: lake como, day 5: florence.

Day 6: Cinque Terre

Day 7: Cinque Terre

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, Italy

Days 1 & 2: Venice

Start your trip in Venice, spending two days exploring the beautiful canals and streets of this city. Some must-see sights include: Ponte di Rialto, Ponte dei Sospiri, Piazza San Marco and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute.

When it comes to must-do activities, you’ll want to go for a gondola ride!

While it may be considered a touristy activity, there’s a reason it’s so popular. Seeing Venice from the canals gives you a completely different and unique view.

In Venice I stayed at Hotel alle Guglie and I can highly recommend it.

| READ MORE: 10 ESSENTIAL THINGS TO PACK ON YOUR ITALY TRIP |

The best sunset spot in Venice, Italy, just across from the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

The view from the rooftop of the mall next to Ponte di Rialto

One day in my hometown will give you plenty of time to see all the main sights, and to get a feel for the vibe in the City of Fashion.

You have to visit Piazza del Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Castello Sforzesco and Arco della Pace.

You could also hit some of the shopping streets like Via Monte Napoleone (if you have a big budget) or Corso Buenos Aires (if you’re a normal person like me). Whatever you do, make sure to end your day with a Milanese aperitivo.

The trendy areas for aperitivo are Navigli and Moscova. Here you can drink a traditional Aperol Spritz, while tasting delicious focaccia, pizza and other nibbles.

One of the most gorgeous hotels in Milan is Galleria Vik Milano .

From Milan you can easily go on a day trip to Lake Como. Here you can spend the day wandering around the beautiful towns like Bellagio, or exploring some of the more exciting hikes.

There are loads of hiking trails in Lake Como, which will allow you to enjoy gorgeous sights over the lake, pianura padana and the surrounding mountains. You can even see as far as Switzerland!

You can visit Lake Como on a day trip and return to sleep in Milan, or you can treat yourself for a unique stay at Borgo Le Terrazze .

The view from the peak of Monte San Primo in Lake Como, Italy

Varenna at sunset as seen from the lake

A quick visit to Tuscany’s capital is a must on any northern Italy itinerary. While one day isn’t enough to experience it all, it’s enough to give you a taste of this beautiful city.

You can spend the day wandering around the beautiful streets, exploring the main sights like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and the Galleria degli Uffizi.

You can taste traditional Italian food at the Mercato Centrale, and end the day by enjoying the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo.

In Florence I stayed at Palazzo Riblet , a family run historical residence and can highly recommend it.

Aerial view of Florence – Photo by Garrit Wes Anderson on Scopio

Days 6 & 7: Cinque Terre

We’re at the end of your northern Italy itinerary, and have arrived at one of my personal favourites parts of Italy! My dad is from this region, and I was lucky enough to visit Cinque Terre regularly growing up.

Two days are enough to thoroughly explore the five towns, hike along the Sentiero Azzurro and soak in the Ligurian atmosphere. You can also venture to Porto Venere, the Sixth Land many tourists don’t know about.

One of the most spectacular places to stay in Cinque Terre is without a doubt   La Vista di Marina by The First   .

The harbour and colourful houses of Porto Venere

7 days in Southern Italy

After a 7 days in nothern Italy itinerary, I couldn’t help but include also a 7 days in southern Italy one! This itinerary is perfect for those who want to see some iconic Italian sights, without travelling across the whole country.

It’s best suited to those who have already seen Milan, Venice and other northern parts of Italy, and who want to combine a visit to Rome with other beauties of the Italian south.

With the Amalfi Coast and Matera, this Italy 7-day itinerary combines beautiful coastal views with unique historical sights. It’s perfect for Italy lovers who want to see more beyond the classics.

Here is my suggested southern Italy 7-day itinerary.

Day 3: Naples & Amalfi Coast

Day 4: Naples & Amalfi Coast

Day 5: Naples & Amalfi Coast

Day 6: Matera

Day 7: Matera

The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

Start your southern Italy itinerary in the gorgeous Italian capital. Two days are just enough to see all the main sights and enjoy the Roman vibe.

You can visit all the main spots like the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Trinità dei Monti and the Basilica di San Pietro. For the history and art lovers you can also visit the Musei Vaticani and admire the Sixtin Chapel.

For a local Roman experience, make sure to taste spaghetti carbonara or with cacio e pepe. There are also many gorgeous neighbourhood and viewpoints you can explore like Trastevere and Giardino degli Aranci.

Rome is a wonderful city at any time of the year, however I personally recommend visiting either in spring or winter . Rome in summer is iconic, but very busy and touristy.

A bnb I stayed at in Rome and can highly recommend is Tridente Rooms .

Enjoying the beauty of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

Days 3 – 6: Naples & Amalfi Coast

I travelled many times to Naples when I was younger, first on school trip and other times to visit friends. It’s an incredibly beautiful part of Italy, where you can experience a very different vibe from the northern cities.

Naples itself has many gorgeous sights to offer, but the main attractions in the area are without a doubt beyond the city, in the famous Amalfi Coast .

You can go on a boat trip to Capri , or explore the beautiful town of Positano . History lovers can pay a visit to the ruins of Pompei , and maybe even hike the Path of the Gods .

With so many gorgeous beaches in the area, you can spend three days alternating between sightseeing and relaxing on a beautiful white sand beach. And of course, you have to taste the real pizza napoletana!

Positano at sunset

The view over Positano from the second viewpoint

Best tours in Naples

These awesome tours in and around Naples will allow you to discover this beautiful part of Italy.

Naples or Sorrento: Full-Day Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Tour – Discover the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the rugged beauty of Mount Vesuvius in one go!

From Naples or Sorrento: Full-Day Amalfi Coast Day Trip – Explore everything the Amalfi Coast has to offer!

Capri Boat Tour From Naples – You can’t visit Naples and not pay a visit to the gorgeous island of Capri.

Enjoying a swim at the main beach of Positano in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Where to stay in & around Naples

Here are some awesome places to stay in Amalfi Coast for every budget.

Budget: Viaggio a Napoli B&B – This cozy and well located bnb is perfect for travellers on a budget.

Mid-range: The Foria House – Located just outside the Naples city centre, this beautiful apartment has a lovely garden where you can relax after sightseeing around Naples.

Luxury: Hotel Reginella – If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. With its stunning views, balconies and beautifully decorated rooms, staying at Hotel Reginella is an experience in and of itself.

Enjoying our private boat cruise in Capri, with the iconic Faraglioni Rocks behind us

Days 6 & 7: Matera

I visited Matera for the first time in 2020, and it made me wonder why I waited so long to discover this gorgeous Italian town. From “Shame of Italy” to European Capital of Culture, Matera has come a long way.

The Sassi of Matera, the ancient cave network turned into traditional houses of the town, are the main attraction and a unique sight. Walking amongst the cobbled streets of the Sassi feels like stepping back in time.

Matera is a small town, but in my opinion you need two full days to appreciate it. You can spend some time wandering around the cobbled streets, admiring the many beautiful churches, tasting the cuisine and hiking in the surrounding hills.

The Sassi of Matera by night are an especially magical sight, with their soft golden light reflected on the white Italian marble.

| READ MORE: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MATERA |

The gorgeous view over Matera from the Convento di Sant’Agostino

The view over the Sassi of Matera from Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio

Best Matera tours

Discover Matera with these awesome local tours!

Matera: 2-Hour Guided Tour of Sassi – Discover all the secret local spots amongst the Sassi, while learning the history of this incredible city.

Matera: Panoramic Tuk-Tuk Tour – If you don’t feel like walking, this traditional tuk-tuk tour is a great compromise!

Murgia Park: Rocky Churches Tour – Go beyond Matera and discover the historical rocky churches of Matera!

Enjoying the view over the Sassi of Matera in Italy

Where to stay in Matera

Here are some awesome places to stay in Matera for every budget.

Budget: Ostello dei Sassi Backpackers – This hostel gives you the opportunity of sleeping in a traditional “Sasso”, without breaking the bank!

Mid-range: The View Matera – I took my mum and grandma here and they loved it. You can enjoy an awesome view over Matera from both your bed and rooftop, without even having to leave the bnb!

Luxury: Palazzotto Residence & Winery – Experience sleeping in a traditional “Sasso”, with a little added luxury!

Relaxing at our hotel The View Matera

How to spend 7 days in Italy for beach & culture fans

While I absolutely adore Sardinia and the Sardinian sea, I’m conscious that others might prefer a more balanced holiday.

If you want to swim in the gorgeous Italian sea, but also discover Italian history and see some incredible sights, then Sicily is the place for you. Sicily is the perfect place to spend 7 days between beaches and culture.

In 2020 I spent 7 days in eastern Sicily, and I was reminded of just how beautiful my country is. The combination of natural beauty and historical magnificence left me speechless.

This Italy 7-day itinerary is best suited for people who have already been to Italy, as it doesn’t touch the main cities and sights. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Italian history, but also want to relax by beautiful beaches.

Enjoying the views over Modica from the cathedral belltower

Sicily is a huge island and seeing it all in seven days isn’t recommended. I would focus on eastern Sicily, and this is my recommended 7-day itinerary.

Day 1: Catania

Day 2: Etna & Taormina

Day 3: Gole di Alcantara & Siracusa

Day 4: Laghetti di Cavagrande, Marzamemi & Noto

Day 5: Modica, Scicli & Ragusa Ibla

Day 6: Ragusa Marina, Caltagirone & Catania

Day 7: Aci Castello & Acireale

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 7 AWESOME DAYS IN SICILY! |

Ragusa Ibla seen from the neighbouring hill

Relaxing at the beautiful Isola Bella beach in Taormina

Days 1 – 7: Eastern Sicily

I don’t want to include here my whole Sicily itinerary as it would take too long, and I’m conscious this Italy 7-day itinerary is already getting pretty long as it is!

Instead, I’m just going to list some highlights below and you can read my full Sicily 7-day itinerary here ! Some of the most beautiful places in Sicily that you have to add to your itinerary are: Taormia, Ragusa Ibla, Noto and Modica.

Taormina has an adorable Baroque old town centre, and is also home to a spectacular ancient roman amphitheatre. Located on top of a hill, it has the most incredible sunset view over Taormina, the hills and sea.

Exploring the Greek amphitheatre of Taormina at sunset

Perched on top of a hill, Ragusa Ibla is one of the most unique towns you will ever see. The town itself is magical, with incredible Baroque architecture and cobbled streets.

However, the view over the surrounding hills and the view of Ragusa Ibla perched on top of a hill is what took my breath away.

Enjoying the view over Ragusa in Sicily

Noto might not be as panoramic as Ragusa Ibla, but with its myriad of churches and distinctive architecture, it’s an incredibly interesting place to visit.

Simply wandering around the streets of Noto and discovering historically significant corners will excite and amaze you.

The main cathedral in Noto

Besides being home to some gorgeous architecture, Modica is also home to a famous chocolate making industry! Taste the traditional Modica chocolate while wandering around the cute streets of Modica and enjoying the views.

Being located in the south of Italy, the weather in Sicily tends to be warm also in winter. It’s what makes it a popular European winter sun destination , especially for travellers visiting Europe in the fall and winter .

The staircase leading up to the cathedral of Modica

Final thoughts on how to spend one week in Italy

There you have it, the ultimate guide to spending one awesome week in Italy! Simply one itinerary wouldn’t have been enough, so I have you six Italy itineraries that you can choose based on your interests.

Whether you’re a first time or returning visitor, a nature or city lover, a beach bum or museum aficionado, I’m sure you will find something for you in these itineraries.

Have you been to Italy before? Are there other places in Italy you think should feature in these itineraries? Let me know in the comments below!

As an Italian, I always recommend spending longer than one week in Italy. While even two weeks in Italy wouldn’t be enough, it would give you more time to see more spots on your travel bucket list .

That said, with these Italy 7-day itineraries you can still have an incredible time in my country. I hope you find this guide useful in planning your week in Italy!

Enjoyed reading my sample itineraries for 7 days in Italy? Pin it!

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How to plan an Italy trip

Want to know how to plan an Italy trip? You’ve come to the right place. Italy trip planning is one of our favorite things to do. So much so that we set up this website.

We wrote this article to take you step by step through planning your trip. From deciding when to go and how much it will cost to what to take and how to use your mobile phone, it’s all here to remove the overwhelm and make your trip planning easier. Even if you choose to hire a travel agent to assist with your bookings, it is a good idea to walk through these steps as it will help the agent build the best trip for you.

You can see an overview of the steps you need to follow in the article contents below. Follow our guide and you’ll be on your way to planning your own trip or choosing the right tour for you and your travel companions.

Article contents

Step 1 – Decide when you want to go and your budget

When to go to italy.

There is no bad time to visit Italy but there may be one that suits you better. Depending on your interests and the places you want to see you need to be aware of seasonal differences that you need to know about:

• Summer – June to August: peak tourist season, weather is hot and prices higher. Many Italians are on vacation and the coastal areas are very busy especially in mid August
• Fall / Autumn – September to November: September remains hot and busy in most of the major tourist centers. By October the weather is cooling and ferry services on the coast and lakes stop running. At this time grape harvest is in full swing. November is generally quite wet but there is lots of sunshine between the showers.
• Winter – December to February: As the weather cools so do the crowds. Attractions are much less busy and the lead up to Christmas is magical with lights and decorations in shop windows. In January and February restaurants in many coastal areas are closed. February’s Carnevale in Venice is generally one of the most expensive times to visit the city
• Spring – March to May: In March and April wildflowers bloom and the countryside is awash with color. Easter is a popular holiday for Europeans to visit Italian cities especially Rome, Florence and Venice.

NOTE: peak season in the most visited destinations is May – October.

Our favorite time to visit Italy in the shoulder months. In April and May and October and November the weather is generally sunny and mild, the crowds are manageable and you can find great value deals on your flight and accommodation.

Although we are past the worst of the pandemic and travel restrictions, things can change quickly – you can check our article Can you travel to Italy plus current situation.  We update this regularly with the latest travel news.  

READ: Our full article on the best time to visit Italy

How much will it cost?

This will depend on your expectations, interests and travel style. You can travel very cheaply in Italy if you visit lesser-known regional areas and avoid the big cities. Even in the big cities it is possible to find free attractions and budget accommodation if you know where to look.

If you want to see the main sights and enjoy experiences such as cooking classes, private boat cruises and wine tours then the sky is really the limit when it comes to cost.

Most travelers fall somewhere in the middle however and a reasonable daily budget per person for food, transport and activities is around €100 on top of flights and accommodation.

READ: Our full article on Budgeting for your trip to Italy.

Expert Assistance

Need some help planning your trip?

Book in for a trip consultation with our expert Italy travel planners ready to help you build your dream vacation in Italy whether that be a classic first timer trip or an off the beaten path adventure

Step 2 – Do some preliminary research and preparation

Where to research your trip to italy.

From online news and magazines, blogs, Instagram, Facebook groups (check out Italy Travel Planning ) and even podcasts like ours – there are thousands of resources online. I am sure you’ve already seen quite a few of them already. Sometimes endless options can be overwhelming so we recommend collecting ideas in an online folder or scrapbook and organizing them into destinations that you really want to see.

You’ll probably want to “do it all” but really have a think about your interests and what will best suit you and your travel style. Once you have some ideas, it’s best to consult a structured resource to check your assumptions and thoughts.

Traditional guidebooks definitely have their place for planning a trip to Italy. Well researched and structured, they’ll give you in depth information on destinations and sights to see as well as practical tips to help you plan. Even after 30+ trips to Italy we still consult guidebooks for new destinations we want to visit. You can find our favorite Italy guidebooks here .

Italy travel planners

We noticed that even guidebooks can provide too much information in the planning process so we created one page travel planners for the top places to visit in Italy. Our planners tell you the top sights, best viewpoints, must have experiences and our favorite places to eat (including best gelato stops) in each place.

You can print them off or keep them on your phone and there’s a link to an online map so you can map out your days. We have guides for Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast and Sorrento. Our goal is always to simplify the trip planning process and we know you will find them useful.

DISCOVER: Our Digital travel guides and planners .

Group tour itineraries

Tour companies – like ours ! – put a lot of effort into designing tours that cover the main sights and even lesser known regions. They know the times it takes to get around and how long you can stay in each place to get a taste or feel for the destination.

We often check itineraries of places we would like to visit as an input into our own planning.  Here are some recommended tour companies and itineraries to investigate.

Private tours

If you want maximum flexibility and comfort, consider a private driving tour . From the moment you land, to when you depart, you’ll have a personal driver with local knowledge making sure your trip is exactly what you imagined.

Passports and visas

At this stage of your planning it is a good idea to check the validity of your passport and if you require a visa. Citizens of the United States, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and New Zealand may enter Italy and stay up to 90 days without a visa within an 180 day period. You must have 6 months validity on your passport when you enter Italy. Go and check this now as it can take several months for new passports to be processed.

All other nationalities should check this Italian government site that will walk you through whether a visa is required for your visit.

Citizens of the European Union can travel with photo identification.

Please note – this information is subject to change and it is always best to check with your local foreign office for the latest advice on travel to Italy.

• United States –  click here
• Australia –  click here
• United Kingdom –  click here
• Canada –  click here

READ: Can you travel to Italy plus current situation .

Step 3 – Confirm your itinerary

Itinerary planning is where many people get stuck. We understand. There are so many amazing places to see in Italy that deciding where to go and how much time to spend there can be hard. As a general rule, we like to spend a minimum of three nights in each place to minimize time spent traveling and also enjoy each place as much as possible. So if you have a 10 day trip then 3 main stops would be a good baseline to start with.

Where to go

From your research, you probably have an idea of where you want to go. You may want to visit the popular cities and regions on your first trip however each city and region in Italy offers something special.

Most popular cities

Most popular regions.

On our site, you can also browse Italy’s lesser-known cities and regions on the destinations page or visit our article on hidden gems in Italy for inspiration.

Itinerary suggestions

As a general rule, for a 3-5 day trip we suggest choosing one destination – a city or region. If you have a week to 10 days then you can plan 1-3 places in either the north OR south of Italy. In a two week trip you could cover 3-4 places and see both north and south.

Try not to squeeze too much in. It’s easy to underestimate transit times and getting in and out of airports and train stations. Plus you want to have plenty of time to enjoy yourself and soak up every last moment.

Suggested itineraries

If it is your first trip to Italy, like many first-time visitors you may choose to start your journey in Rome and visit Florence and Venice. This 10 day Italy itinerary covers that route. It includes detailed instructions on how to make the most of your time in Italy.

Want our FREE Italy trip planning checklist? >> Click here .

Alternative 10 day itinerary suggestions

Most people travel to Italy for 10 to 14 days so we built some itinerary suggestions to cater for that time frame that cover both northern and southern Italy.

Group Tours

Packaged group tours of Italy are a popular way to travel and avoid the stress of planning your own trip. They are also a great option if you would like some company along the way. Here is a quick summary of popular tour companies:

• Untold Italy small group tours – we run exclusive small group tours for food and wine-loving travelers wanting to get off the beaten path to see hidden Italy beyond the major cities and tourist areas. We lead groups of 14 people on journeys of discovery to experience the regions of Sicily, Puglia, Piedmont, Tuscany, Umbria, Bologna and surrounds, Capri and the Cilento coasts > learn more
• Trafalgar – popular and well respected brand appealing to the 50+ age group. Travel is by coach and the focus is on culture and history. Expect group sizes of 40-45 passengers and 4 star hotels. Trafalgar also include interesting local experiences such as wine tastings and unique stays in their itineraries. Check out their popular Best of Italy tour
• Intrepid Travel – small group tours with an average of 10 travelers with plenty of free time built in for exploring. Their popular Italy Real Food Adventure is an 8 day itinerary that showcases their travel style well
• Peregrine – Intrepid’s premium brand offers some interesting hiking tours of the Italian Lakes and Amalfi Coast
• Tourradar – is a market place for group packaged tours where you can browse hundreds of package tours by different operators, and by date. You then filter by your interests and age group and read detailed reviews. You can browse fully organized tours to independent self-drive or train itineraries

READ: Our full article on the Best package tours for Italy .

When should you start booking your trip?

Italy is one of the most visited destinations in the world, so in our opinion, it is never too early to start the booking process. Book accommodation as soon as possible, and at least 6-12 months in advance especially for peak times in July and August.  We prefer to pay the higher rate for flexible bookings on both Booking.com and Plum Guide .

Day tour and attractions also sell out months in advance at peak times. In 2020 our preferred booking site GetYourGuide refunded all tours canceled due to the pandemic and stand by their policy of allowing cancelations with a full refund up to 24 hours before your activity starts.

Flight bookings will depend on where you are flying from. For long haul flights the best deals are generally found 6-12 months in advance while deals pop up regularly for travel within Europe.

Rail bookings can be made up to 4 months in advance on high speed intercity and standard intercity trains.

Step 4 – Book your flights, inbound travel & insurance

Flights to italy.

It is easy to fly direct (or with a single stop) into Italy from most places in the world. Rome Fiumicino [Leonardo da Vinci](FCO) international airport is the main hub for air traffic but you can also easily fly into Milan Malpensa (MXP) or Venice Marco Polo (VCE) airports from major hubs around the world.

There are many other airports throughout the country that can be accessed within Italy and Europe. Pisa is useful for trips to Tuscany and the Cinque Terre and you will need to fly into both Sicily and Sardinia.

To source the best flight deals to Italy we use a combination of Skyscanner ,  CheapoAir  and  Google flights .

• Skyscanner  – portal where you can view cheapest days and routes to fly and set alerts for price drops
• CheapoAir – uncovers the best deals on first and business class flights around the world
• Google flights  – great for checking schedules and airline routes

Secure the best deals by setting up alerts on Skyscanner for the month you wish to travel and wait for price drops. It’s good to have a price that you wish to pay in mind but be prepared to be flexible on dates and stopovers. It is often cheaper to fly into Milan rather than Rome and that city is a useful entry point for northern Italy itineraries.

TIP: always use an incognito browser window to search for flight deals. Prices are amended up for users known to be searching for specific dates and times.

Inbound rail from within Europe

Major Italian cities – Milan, Rome, Florence and Venice – have fantastic fast speed train links from other capitals and major cities in Europe. The website  Seat 61  is a great resource for planning train travel within Europe.

Bus travel to Italy

If you’re on a tight budget and traveling within Europe, then you might want to consider coming to Italy by bus. Low cost operator  Flixbus covers 3,000 destinations in 39 countries.

You can compare schedules and prices using Omio – a useful site for booking a combination of train, bus and air travel within Europe.

Organize travel insurance

Once you have booked your flights or tour, we recommend organizing travel insurance straight away. The main reason you should purchase insurance is to cover health costs and emergency repatriation to your home country should you fall ill. Since 2020 you need to check whether there is cover provided for issues relating to covid19 however general health cover is recommended regardless.

Cover for cancelation, delays and loss of belongings is a bonus and again they may not apply under pandemic conditions. You need to read all the terms and conditions of your cover including any exclusions before you commit to buy.

Policy costs vary by your country of residence, what is covered, age, existing conditions and the insurer. You can visit Worldnomads for a quick quote. We use this company for our family travels and find the cost, coverage and claims process to be good to excellent.

Another option if you are in the United States is Safety Wing’s Nomad Insurance . Unfortunately neither option provides policies for those aged over 69. In this case you can try Travel Insurance Master – a service that allows you to compare quotes and insurance policies.

Step 5 – Book accommodation and transport

Accommodation.

Choosing where to stay at each stop is an important part of itinerary planning. Italy has many different options for tourists and you can expect the usual range of hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation as well as apartments and villas.

If you plan to spend any time in the country, consider staying at an agriturismo or farm stay. This is accommodation offered by Italian farmers who earn additional income by providing rooms and meals. Very popular in Italy and Europe, prices ranges from budget to luxurious. You can find agriturismi (plural) with swimming pools, hammams, restaurants and wine cellars. We always try to build them into our itinerary. 

LISTEN: Find out about farm stays in Italy in this podcast episode .

How much will accommodation cost?

Here is a rough guide to average prices for a double room. This will vary with prices higher in popular areas at peak times

Upscale / Luxury – €210+ [USD $240+] per night Midrange / Boutique – €120-260 [USD $135-295] per night Budget / B&B – €70-130 [USD $80-150] per night Ultra budget / Hostel or shared room in AirBnB – €30-45 [USD $30-40] per night

Best accommodation sites

Our favorite sites for booking lodging are Booking.com and Plum Guide – between them, you’ll find a huge range of options from hotels and resorts to bed and breakfast, apartments and farm stay accommodation.

Plum Guide is particularly useful for longer stays in apartments and villas and if you’re traveling as a family and need some extra space. Use the code “Untold5” for a 5% discount here .

Other sites we use and recommend

• BookingsForYou – beautiful villas and apartments in Tuscany, Italian Lakes and Puglia – 5% for readers when you mention our site or code – UntoldItaly – when booking
• VRBO – has some great options for long stay villas and apartments, particularly on the Amalfi Coast
• Agriturismo.it – great for finding smaller farm stays but the booking engine is terrible. You can usually find the same properties on Booking.com
• Airbnb – we have used Airbnb on many occasions in Italy but are now finding better value and booking conditions on Booking.com and VRBO

LISTEN: To more accommodation options and what to look for in this podcast episode .

Further reading:

• Where to stay in Rome – a district by district guide to the best areas to stay
• Best places to stay in Florence – neighborhoods and areas best suited to your trip
• Where to stay in Venice – a neighborhood and area guide
• Where to stay in Milan – best areas, places and hotels

READ: Our Italy accommodation guide .

Transport while in Italy

As a general rule, if you are traveling between cities and major towns then the best way to travel around Italy is by train. If you want to explore the countryside and small villages you will need to rent a car.

When you are mapping out distances to travel between destinations use Google maps or Rome2Rio .

Train travel in Italy

Trains in Italy are modern and efficient. Fast speed services link the major cities and regional trains connect smaller towns and villages. Two major train networks operate throughout Italy – Italo and Trenitalia .

You should book in advance for high speed intercity services where seats are allocated. If you purchase non-flexible tickets you can make significant savings with advance bookings. They are not required on regional services.

READ: Our Complete guide to train travel in Italy .

Recommended train booking sites – Omio and The Trainline

You can book directly with the Italian operators or an easier way is with:

Omio – compare train times and prices across both Trenitalia and Italo schedules and keep your ticket details on their handy app. Click here to search for rail tickets on Omio

The Trainline is a similar service to Omio offering schedules, pricing and booking for train companies in Italy and Europe. They also have a useful app and great instructions in English. Click here to search for rail tickets on The Trainline

High speed train intercity travel times on popular routes

Rome to Florence – 1 hour 30 minutes Rome to Naples – 1 hour 15 minutes Rome to Milan – 3 hours Rome to Venice – 4 hours Florence to Venice – 2 hours Florence to Milan – 2 hours

Car rental in Italy

One of the best ways to see the smaller towns and countryside in Italy is to rent a car and take to the open road. Driving in Italy is quite straightforward. You just need to do some forward planning and use your common sense. Here are some tips to

• You are required to carry an International Drivers Permit – these can be arranged in your home country at minimal cost
• Standard transmission on cars is manual or stick shift. If you want to rent an automatic car expect to pay extra, if you can find one available
• Rent the smallest car you can to fit you and your luggage – roads are often narrow and you don’t want to get stuck!
• Heavy fines apply if you enter ZTL zones or historic districts where driving is not allowed

We use both Car Rental by booking.com  and AutoEurope to find the best car rental deals in Italy including one way options. They both search international and local providers so you get a wide variety of choice and there is 24/7 support if you need it. AutoEurope is usually your best option if you want a one way rental.

Click here to search for car rentals in Italy with Car Rental by booking.com .

READ: Our guide to Renting a car in Italy .

Internal flights

If you want to visit the islands of Sicily or Sardinia, or travel very long distances, flying makes the most sense.

Check on Skyscanner  or  Google flights  for routes and prices. Remember to set alerts for those routes you want to fly and book early for flights in the summer months.

READ: Our guide to all transportation in Italy .

Step 6 – Book Attractions, tours and activities

Major attractions.

The major cities of Italy – Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan – are some of the busiest cities for tourists in the world. And most visitors want to spend time at their famous attractions

We strongly advise you to prebook advance skip-the-line tickets for the following attractions – the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Uffizi Gallery and Doge’s Palace. Otherwise, you could spend precious vacation hours standing in lines to enter these sites. Note – in winter months booking in advance is not as necessary.

We have given you the official booking sites and an alternative for approved ticket partners should you have trouble using the official site – unfortunately, that happens a lot! The direct sites are usually cheaper but the partner sites are generally more user friendly. Always check the terms and conditions of your purchase, particularly in relation to changes and refunds. GetYourGuide has a very easy cancelation policy which in many cases allows cancelation with refunds up to 24 hours prior to departure.

• Colosseum – official ticket site OR buy Colosseum tickets on Get Your Guide
• Vatican Museums – official ticket site OR buy Vatican Museum tickets on Get Your Guide
• Omnia pass – Colosseum + Vatican + one other museum + hop on, hop off bus – click here for details
• Uffizi Gallery – official ticket site OR buy Uffizi tickets on Get Your Guide
• ‘David’ statue [Accademia Gallery] – official ticket site OR buy Accademia tickets on Get Your Guide
• Duomo roof climb – official ticket site OR buy Dome climb tickets on Get Your Guide
• Doge’s Palace  – official ticket site OR buy Doge’s palace tickets on Get Your Guide
• San Marco basilica  – official skip the line tickets OR buy a tour of San Marco including tickets on Get Your Guide
• ‘Last Supper’ painting – official ticket site OR buy Last Supper tickets on Get Your Guide
• Duomo rooftop  – official ticket site OR buy Duomo tickets on Get Your Guide

READ: Our full review of Get Your Guide .

If you want to learn about the sites you are visiting then we recommend a group day tour. We prefer small group or private tours where you learn about the culture and history of the places you are visiting. It’s so much more fun than reading plaques and you are also able to ask questions.

So make sure to build in a couple of tours when you are planning a trip to Italy.

Our favorite small group tour companies are Take Walks (formerly Walks of Italy) and Liv Tours  and we prefer With Locals for private tours. Both offer very well designed and engaging tours of the major sights in Italy as well as interesting food and cultural tours.

• Take Walks have a longstanding reputation for excellent service, groups under 20 people and guaranteed departures. So if you are the only person booked on a tour it will still go ahead. We recently enjoyed our Colosseum at night tour and day trip to Tuscany with them
• Liv Tours – family run Italian company offering true small group tours of 6 people or less. All of their tours use expert guides who will help you fall in love with Italian history, culture, and food. Tours include a popular golf cart tour of Rome’s highlights and their fascinating Women’s history tours
• With Locals offer great value private tours. You choose from a series of set itineraries and guides in cities across Italy. There are tours focused on history, food, culture and other themes or they can be customized them for your group. We tried their 10 Tastes of Naples recently and it was lots of fun. They also have great options for families
• Eating Europe – food tour specialists who will ensure you discover the best local dishes

Save 5% on Liv Tours with code – ‘untold italy’ >> click here to browse tours

• Rome: A 3 Day Itinerary
• The best tours in Rome
• Unmissable day trips from Florence
• Day trip from Rome to Pompeii
• Best tours of the Vatican
• Tickets and tours for the Colosseum
• Rome’s best food tours

Activities and experiences

Seeing the sights of Italy is always a treat but you’ll also love immersing yourself in Italian culture. These days you can choose from a wide range of experiences and activities. From food and wine tours, to football matches, concerts and exploring the countryside by vintage car, there are memorable experiences to suit you.

Recommended experiences

• Cooking class with Nonna Nerina near Rome – Grandma Nerina teaches you how to make fresh pasta and welcomes you into her home. If you can’t wait until you get to Italy to do this she also does online classes
•   Capri boat trip –  small group on a private boat means a slower pace and more time to see the island. You can read what to expect on this day trip here

Our favorite companies for searching for interesting and unique things to do in Italy are:

• Cookly – cooking class and food and wine experiences like truffle hunting from small operators across Italy
• Get Your Guide – has the biggest listing of tours and experiences

Step 7 – Get ready for departure

Organize your money and credit card.

The local currency in Italy is the € Euro.

You do not need to carry too much cash when you are there. Credit and debit cards VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted while American Express and Diners Club are not as popular. You may want to consider a foreign currency card like the Wise Mastercard where you can convert Euros easily and cheaply from your US dollar, Australian dollar or Canadian dollar accounts (plus many other currencies)

Be aware of foreign currency charges and ATM withdrawal fees applied to your account when you are abroad. You may want to review the cards you are taking with you prior to your trip. We recommend that you take two – one as a back up for emergencies. And inform your bank before you go. Sometimes they can be overzealous and place a block on your card if they see unusual activity.

Book airport transfers

Planning your arrival in Italy is recommended. Most of the airports are a fair way out from the city center – and in the case of Venice, in the middle of a lagoon!

Compare different transfer services on Suntransfers – a company that specializes in transfer options from major airports. They have options to suit all budgets and prices for coach, mini bus, private car and limo services.

Rome – transfers from Fiumicino airport

Taxis are fine to take in Rome. There is a set rate into the center of €48 and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Or, if you would prefer to be met at the airport you can pre-book a transfer. A transfer is the best option if you are traveling with more than 2 people and have several items of luggage. We recommend:

• Welcome Pickups – available 24/7, a private car transfer means you are met at the arrivals hall and will take between 30 minutes and one hour door-to-door.
• Suntransfers – offers a wide range of vehicles for groups of all sizes. Transfers can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance with no penalty.

Another popular way to transfer into Rome is to take the Leonardo Express train . This non-stop service between Fiumicino and Rome Termini (the main station) takes 32 minutes. Trains depart every half hour from 6:08 to 23:23, and the cost is €14. You can purchase tickets at the station on the day. Unless you are staying close to Termini you will then need to get a taxi to your accommodation.

The cheapest transfer option – this bus goes direct from the airport to Termini – €6-7 one way.

READ: Our full article on Rome airport transfers .

Venice transfers

The water bus company Alilaguna runs shuttles every 15 -30 minutes in peak season to and from the airport and the islands on the lagoon. This bus stops at San Marco and Rialto as well as some other secondary stops. The fare is €8 one way €15 return and the journey takes 1½ hours – you can book online here

A private boat transfer or shared transfer in a water taxi is the fastest (and most glamorous) way to transfer to your accommodation in Venice. Journey times and prices depend on the number of people in your party and exclusivity. A direct private transfer to the airport takes around 45 minutes.

• Private transfer – around €200 for 6 people – book here
• Shared water taxi transfer – around €32 per person – book here

You can also take a taxi (cost €25) or express airport bus to Piazzale Roma (cost €8) and then take a vaporetto (water bus) or walk your hotel/accommodation. A one way trip on the ferry costs €7 per person and is valid for 60 minutes.

READ: Our full article on Venice airport transfers .

Florence transfers from Florence airport

Florence airport is very close to the city center and a 15 minute taxi ride away. There is also an airport bus that takes around 20 minutes.   A 20 minute tram ride takes you to the main Santa Maria Novella train station and costs €1.50.

Florence transfers from Pisa airport

Many people fly to Pisa to reach Florence as it is a larger airport. If you arrive during the day take the PisaMover train to Pisa Centrale train station – journey time 5 minutes. Then take a train to Florence. Starts at 6.00 am and the last train departs at midnight and it costs €5.00.

On our last visit we arranged a transfer with Suntransfers as we arrived too late for the last train. There is also a coach transfer option.

Amalfi Coast or Sorrento transfers from Naples airport or train station

We recommend organizing a private transfer for this journey. The train, ferry and bus via Sorrento can take 4 hours while a car service is around 1.5 hours. You can compare different services on Suntransfers – a site specializing in ground transportation.

You may find sites or groups where specific drivers are recommended. We do not recommend booking a driver this way for safety reasons – how do you know that the person recommending the driver is reputable, let alone the driver? And also for practical reasons – small operators may not have capacity or availability.

Plan how to access the internet

Consider how you will access the internet on your trip. You may be happy to disconnect and use paper or offline maps however many of us need internet access.

Italy has high speed internet and there are many options to stay connected depending on your needs. If you use minimal data and are happy to use offline maps and guides then you should be able to get by using wifi at your hotel or accommodation. Do not expect wifi to be available in restaurants and cafes because in Italy restaurants are for eating.

If you plan to use wifi make sure to turn off international data roaming before your trip to avoid unpleasant bill surprises.

Paid internet options

• Use your provider’s roaming plan – usually very expensive and slow speeds if coming from outside Europe
• Local SIM – purchase a tourist SIM before your depart or when you arrive that has enough data for map navigation and research. Italian provider TIM comes highly recommended and there are outlets at the airports and train stations
• Portable wifi device – connect multiple devices to high speed internet for reasonable prices. We use and recommend Solis Wifi (Get 10% off with our code – UNTOLDM )

READ: Our full guide to Cellphones and getting online in Italy (SIMs, wifi and more) .

Packing for your Italy trip

The key to packing for Italy is to pack the minimum that you need. Many people like to take carry-on luggage only for their trips. This is a great way to travel as you will find it much easier managing trains, cobblestones and stairs that are a feature of travel in Italy.

But, most of us find that a challenge, so try to stick to a medium bag per person plus one carry on item. Large suitcases are not a good idea. You will also thank yourself if you consider your footwear carefully. Three comfortable pairs will see you through most trips.

Note – We have a complete packing guide coming soon.

LISTEN: to packing strategies in this podcast episode .

Must have items for your trip

• Luggage – get the size right with our guide to the best luggage for Italy
• Untold Italy travel planners – one page checklists of the must see sights, restaurants and gelato bars in Italy’s most popular places
• Collapsible water bottle – stay hydrated and fill up at free water fountains all over Italy
• Camera – for your vacation snaps. We recommend lightweight mirrorless models like these ones
• Packing cubes – these make packing, organizing your luggage and unpacking so easy. We love them!
• Power cube – don’t bring lots of bulky converters. This one has 3 USB ports
• Battery pack – keep all your devices charged
• Plug adapter – you will need one!
• Face masks – for your safety and you may be required to wear one indoors
• Hand sanitizer wipes – to keep germs at bay

READ: Our Complete packing guide for Italy .

Get started and plan your Italy trip now!

We hope you now have more confidence to start planning your trip to Italy. This will no doubt be a trip that you’ll remember and cherish for years to come. And, like many of us, you may find it sparks a passion to return to bella Italia again and again.

Latest Italy Travel Podcasts and Articles

Can you travel to italy – latest travel information [june 2024], how to pack for your trip to italy, hidden gems in italy – off the beaten path from north to south, transportation in italy, 3 days in rome: itinerary ideas for visiting the eternal city, episode #225: avoiding italy trip planning mistakes – 2024 edition, italy in november – reasons to visit and what to expect, italy in september – reasons to visit and what to expect, planning a trip to italy.

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 140,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

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April 4, 2023

Best of Florence Day Trip - top 12 things to do

What you need to know.

When you visit Rome you can’t miss a quick trip Florence. Don't be off-put by the 3 hour drive to Florence and instead jump on the train: you'll be in the heart of Florence in 1 ½ hours! My one day itinerary for a gastronomic and cultural Flavor of Florence takes you to Florence's best food market, an iconic Florentine trattoria for lunch, and a whirlwind walking tour of the city to see Florence's best sites, shopping streets and antique stores. And if you'd like to stay just a bit longer than a day check out my recommendation for a quaint "room-with-a-view" hotel and a terrace overlooking the Ponte Vecchio.

Help with setting up your Florence trip

My friend Elyssa just expanded her RomeWise go-to guide to Florence. She’s your need-to-know contact person for Florence so get started by checking out Elyssa and husband Alessandro's brand new website, FlorenceWise . Here's what they say about FlorenceWise: “We love to explore its art, architecture, culture, food, shopping, hidden gems,….all its nooks and crannies every chance we get. We know the kinds of questions you have when you are planning your holiday and that's why we made this website. For you. So come on in and start exploring! Let us help you turn your too-short holiday in Florence, Italy into a meaningful one.”

Day Trip to Florence

I love to jump on the train and head up to Florence for a day trip whenever I can. Here's my suggestion for a delightful Florence day trip:

How to get to Florence

Book a round trip train ticket from Rome's Termini station to Florence's central train station, Santa Maria Novella, in the very heart of the city. Prices can vary but plan on no more than €90 round trip. The earlier you reserve your trip the less it will cost plus you are guaranteed availability. Purchase a direct trip with no train changes (almost all of them are direct), and a fast train. We usually book a train that takes 1 ½ hours. Purchase a second class ticket and select your seats so you have a window or aisle, and your preferred train car. Wifi is free on board, although it often disconnects as the trip has many tunnels. Bring along your cell phone charger: almost every seat has an outlet (for an Italian plug). Drinks and food are purchasable on board. If, by some chance, you make a mistake and purchase a ticket that goes into Florence’s Campo de Marte station don't worry. Just outside the station you'll find the #12 bus that will take you right to the Santa Maria Novella station. Bus tickets are €1.20 each and can be purchased right at the news stand or coffee bar within the station. Buy two tickets so you have a ticket to and from Campo de Marte. Note that on the way back to the Campo de Marte station you'll need to take a different bus: #13. It will take you close to Campo de Marte but not exactly in front of it. So how will you know when to get off? I always use a fabulous transportation app: Moovit . Download the app before your trip and set it up for the city you're traveling to. The app works on android and iPhone. Go to settings, then pick the country and city where you'll be. Use the app to get directions or to find a bus, metro or light rail line. You can also use it to set up a carpool ride. When you're ready to leave Florence to catch your train back to Rome open the app, put in the train station destination and Moovit will tell you where your closest bus stop is to get to the station. Choose "Get Off Alerts" which will keep track of your next approaching bus and its arrival time and, once you're on the bus, it'll keep track of your trip and tell you when to get off. Note: you need either wifi or cellular connectivity so be sure to set this up before you leave for your trip to Italy, or purchase an Italian SIM card once you arrive. By the way, you can use the Moovit app in most major cities.

What to do in Florence

The city is full of incredible things to see and do; the best known beautiful monuments in Florence are in a small area of the city and everywhere you turn you run into another of the city's treasures. The city center is divided into four areas, each easily reachable on foot, with the Duomo as the geographic and historical epicenter of Florence. Santa Croce is to the east, San Marco to the north, Santa Maria Novella to the west and finally, across the river Arno to the south, is Palazzo Pitti. You may have specific things you'd like to see and do in Florence, but if not, then I suggest a day strolling through the city, and exploring its beauty and atmosphere.

My one day itinerary for a gastronomic and cultural Flavor of Florence

1. visit florence’s central market.

Plan to arrive in the morning and start the day visiting the city's largest market, located in the San Lorenzo area, just northeast of Santa Maria Novella. Head up Via Nazionale as you leave the southeastern corner of Piazza della Stazione Santa Maria Novella. Turn right off Via Nazionale onto Via dell'Ariento and you'll run directly into the Mercato Centrale / San Lorenzo market with lots of outdoor clothing, leather and souvenir stands.

Inside the market building there’s an abundance of produce, both local and international, fish, meat and spices. On the second floor of the market you'll find lots of eateries and food stands.

Make your lunch reservation at the Trattoria Sergio Gozzi

Once you leave the market head along Via Ariento towards the Piazza San Lorenzo, just several minutes away. When you reach #8A step into the Trattoria Sergio Gozzi (Tel. 055-281-941) to make your lunch reservation. This spot is a down to earth casareccio (homestyle) trattoria that features fabulous classic Florentine food. Most of the clientele is local…always a good sign! The 109 year-old restaurant is now in its third generation of family ownership.

2. What to visit before lunch: the San Lorenzo Complex

After you make your reservation head back out to the piazza where you'll find the San Lorenzo Complex with the Medici Chapel (the New Sacristy and two of the Medici tombs designed by Michelangelo; ticket price €9.00), the Medici Laurenziana Library , and the San Lorenzo facade, designed by Brunelleschi. In the square take a look at the 1540 Giovanni dalle Bande Nere statue. If you have extra time before your lunch reservation, also worth visiting: the Medici Riccardi Palazzo, the San Giovannino degli Scopoli church and the Palazzo Riccardi Manelli.

3. Florentine Lunch at Trattoria Sergio Gozzi

Head back to the Trattoria Sergio Gozzi and get ready for a great Florentine lunch! If you're feeling courageous or love offal try the Lampredotto in umido con patate e cavolo nero . Lampredotto is a local Florentine specialty that you're unlikely to find elsewhere; it's tender and delicious, cooked in a flavorful broth, with potatoes and curly kale.

Otherwise I'd suggest the pici pasta with sausage and cavolo Nero, the ribollita or their delicious pasta e fagioli. Grilled meats are excellent as is the peposo , a peppery beef stew. The menu changes daily but you're sure to find something scrumptious!

4. The Duomo

After lunch it's time to head to the Duomo , the jewel of Florence, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction of the Duomo, or Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, began in 1296. Its exterior is exquisite: marble panels of varying shades of white, green and pink. The Duomo is the fourth largest cathedral in the world and can accommodate 20,000 people. A full century later, construction of the Brunelleschi dome began, and was completed in 1463. If you'd like to have a closeup view of the dome along with a spectacular view of Florence plan on climbing the 463 steps to the top! You have to book well in advance, and the climb is not for everyone, so perhaps you might head to another spot in Florence instead that has another gorgeous panoramic view of the city. Tickets are required to climb Giotto's Bell Tower , Brunelleschi's Dome, and the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and they can be purchased at the ticket office in Piazza del Duomo. Cost: Brunelleschi’s Dome: €20 for adults and €10 reduced price children; Giotto’s Bell Tower: €15 for adults and €7 reduced price children; Baptistery of San Giovanni: €10 for adults and €5 reduced price children. Entrance into the Duomo is free.

5. The Statue of David

The Statue of David, the marble sculpture executed from 1501 to 1504 by Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo, is probably the most famous statue in the world. It’s located in Florence’s Accademia Gallery on Via Ricasoli, 60 near the Duomo. Visiting is more complicated than meets the eye, and just because you buy a ticket online ahead of time doesn't mean that the entrance procedure is simple. My strong advice is to go with a guide.

6. Shopping interspersed with more spectacular sites

When you leave the Piazza del Duomo area head down the Via dei Calzaiuoli towards Piazza della Signoria. Via dei Calzaiuoli is one of Florence's most elegant shopping streets filled with handcrafted items and well-known shops, bakeries and gelaterie. The street is filled with lovely palazzi and churches; on your right hand side you'll pass the San Carlo dei Lombardi church and the Orsanmichele church.

7. Piazza Signoria and the 8. Uffizi

Piazza Signoria is the political center of Florence. Here you'll find the 14th century municipal building, the Palazzo Vecchio . The Fountain of Neptune, sculpted by Bartolomeo Ammannati in 1563-65, to commemorate Francesco I de' Medici's wedding. Also in the piazza is the 14th century Loggia dei Lanzi with its three graceful arches. The Loggia leads from Piazza Signoria to the Uffizi Gallery.

You could spend an entire day in the amazing Uffizi art gallery with sculptures and paintings by Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli, Raphael, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and more. Lines can be long, sometimes hours, so definitely buy your ticket in advance, ideally online.

9. The Arno River & Ponte Vecchio, and 10. Via dei Fossi

Just beyond the Uffizi is the Arno River and the famous Ponte Vecchio . Along the river and on the Ponte Vecchio there are many vendors selling leather goods, paintings, jewelry, clothing and other handcrafted items. Florence has six bridges and all but the Ponte Vecchio were bombed during the Second World War. The riverfront is full of cafes and eateries where you can relax, people watch and enjoy the scenery and a snack.

As you leisurely wander your way back towards the station you might want to explore the Via dei Fossi , renowned for its antique shops, galleries and vintage shops.

11. A room with a view - Hotel Hermitage

If one day in Florence just isn't enough for you – that's often the case with me! – then this is the place for you. Charming, old world Florence, with outstanding views through every window, and from the terrace that overlooks the Ponte Vecchio.

Do you have a comment or something you'd like to share with me? Scroll down to the very, very end of this page to reach the  Please Leave Your Comment  section. I'd love to have your feedback and questions!

12. Hop On, Hop Off bus tour of Florence

Another way to experience Florence is on the Hop On, Hop Off bus and you can purchase tickets for 24, 48, or 72 hours depending on how long you are in Florence. It may seem like a corny thing to do, but it's a great way to get an overview of the city.

A Florence memento idea

If you collect Starbucks “ you are here ” mugs like I do then head to the Starbucks right at the Santa Maria Novella train station before you head back to Rome. This Starbucks just opened at the end of December 2022 and Florence “you are here” mugs as of this date still aren't for sale. Undoubtedly they'll be available soon, so stop by when you're at the station. Starbucks has three locations in Florence: Piazza della Stazione, 41- in the Santa Maria Novella train station Via della Chiesa, 47 (near Piazza Pitti and the Buboli Gardens) Via San Quirico, 164 - Campi Bisenzio, Centro Commerciale I Gigli (out of the city center)

More things to do in Tuscany

Explore montalcino and brunello wine visit spannocchia, a 13th century tuscan estate pamela sheldon john's tuscan accommodation and travel itineraries day trip to cortona , in the tuscan province, arezzo.

I make a small commission on purchases made through links on my website. Prices are identical for you, but purchasing through my links helps support my work to bring you great recipes, podcast episodes, culinary and travel information.

You may also be interested in:

More my top travel picks.

Reader Interactions

April 14, 2023 at 5:28 pm

Sergio’s never takes reservations. Sorry

April 16, 2023 at 11:00 am

Hi Steve, You can make a reservation when you stop by mid-morning, but no further in advance. Thanks, Wendy

April 13, 2023 at 8:04 pm

Hi Elyssa, a great guide for a day in Florence. We are going to Florence in July when we visit Rome and we have already bought out train tickets and as you say book early for the best prices. As our youngest son will be with us this will be his first time so this guide is perfect to show him what is in store for him. Thanks for great tips as always.

April 16, 2023 at 10:58 am

Hi Peter, That's great that you will be returning to Florence with your youngest son! If you head by Rome let me know; it would be a pleasure to meet you! FYI, the guide for the day trip to Florence is something I set up based on my travels to Florence. Warm regards, Wendy

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Europe , Italy , Travel

How to spend 10 days in italy: 5 italy itinerary ideas for 2024.

If you’re wondering how to spend 10 days in Italy, I’ve got you covered with these 5 itineraries! Discover the beauty, history, culture, and wonder with the perfect Italy itinerary.

How to Spend 10 Days in Italy: 5 Amazing Itinerary Ideas for your Trip to Italy

Italy is an incredible country that should be on any traveler’s bucket list! Italy has given us so much: the Renaissance, famous artwork, timeless classical music, stunning architecture, pasta, pizza, gelato …need I say more? Not only is Italy the birthplace of so many things, but it is also home to breathtaking natural beauty , from the lakes and mountains in the north to the gorgeous stretches of coastline on either side of the country.

• Here are my top 10 day Italy itineraries:
• Gotta See it All: Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, Lake Como, & Venice
• Classic Italy: Rome, Florence, & Venice
• Northern Lakes of Italy: Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Como , & Lake Maggiore
• Italian Island Hopping: Sardinia & Sicily
• Exploring Tuscany: Florence, Siena, Chianti, & San Gimignano

Here's a Short Cut

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Italy Itinerary complete with interactive maps and daily schedule? Click the yellow button below.

How many days do i need to see italy, how do i plan a 10 day trip to italy, the best time to visit italy, getting around italy, how much is a trip to italy going to cost, first trip to italy suggestions, where are the best places to visit in italy, what to do in italy, what to pack for italy, itinerary #1: gotta see it all, day 1 & day 2: rome, traveling from rome to amalfi, day 3: amalfi coast, traveling from amalfi to florence, day 4: florence, traveling from florence to pisa, day 5: florence/pisa, traveling from pisa to cinque terre, day 6: cinque terre, traveling from cinque terre to milan, day 7: milan & lake como, traveling from milan to lake como, day 8: lake como, traveling from lake como to venice, day 9 & 10: venice, italy itinerary 10 days #2: classic italy, days 1-3: rome, traveling from rome to florence, day 4-6: florence, traveling from florence to venice, day 7-10: venice, itinerary #3: northern lakes of italy, day 1: milan, day 2-3: lake garda, day 4: lake iseo, day 5-7: lake como, day 8-9: lake maggiore, day 10: milan, itinerary #4: italian island hopping, day 1-5: sardinia, getting to sardinia, day 6-10: sicily, getting to sicily, itinerary #5: exploring tuscany, day 1: florence, day 2: home base, day 3: lucca & pisa, day 4: home base, day 5: chianti, day 6: home base, day 7: san gimignano, day 8: home base, day 9: siena, day 10: florence, practical tips for booking your trip.

We love Italy and have spent time living there and also being tourists there many times! It’s one of our favorite places to visit over and over again.

Any trip to Italy will be amazing, but I wanted to give you a few Italy itinerary options to choose from. They are all great options, but everyone has different tastes, and one might be a better fit for your needs and group.

If you want to learn more about Italy before planning your trip, be sure to read my complete Italy Travel Guide. 

Join my Italy Travel Group on Facebook for more helpful tips!

How long should you plan for your trip around Italy? How about indefinitely? Two weeks in Italy is really nice, but if that’s not an option for you, I think that 10 days in Italy is a good amount of time for your first visit. It will allow you to see around three sites without getting too worn out, and it’s the average paid vacation time for most Americans.

A full 10 days in Italy gives you enough time to visit several cities in the country and have some in-depth experiences without feeling too rushed. But if you only have one week in Italy, you can still have a great time. Just cut one location out of any of these itineraries and you’ll be fine! There are so many things to do in Italy and you’ll never be able to see them all, but you can see the best!

If you’re stressing about how to plan a trip to Italy, take a deep breath. Anywhere you choose will be great! Once you’ve decided to spend 10 days in Italy, it’s time to get planning your trip! This is the fun part, but it can also be pretty stressful. Be sure to read all the information here , and once you pick which itinerary works best for you, do all the research you can!

The best time to travel to Italy can be a tricky question! The best time to go to Italy will be different depending on what you want to do or see. If you want to see snowy mountains in the Dolomites or go skiing, obviously you’ll want to go in the winter. If you want to spend most of your time on the beach, you’ll want to go in the summer. Summer in Italy can be hot, humid, and really crowded. So if you want to see the big cities, it’s best to go during shoulder season (April-May or September-October).

The best time of year to visit Italy is probably May or September in my opinion.  Keep your preferences in mind when choosing when to go to Italy. I give my recommendation for each itinerary below.

Getting around Italy can be fun and easy! In my opinion, traveling by train is the best way to travel around Italy and see the country. It allows you to sit back and relax between destinations, and with the cost of fuel and tolls in Italy, it’s actually the most affordable way to travel Italy. Traveling around Italy by train can sound a little scary if you don’t know what you’re doing. Be sure to read my guide so that you feel confident before booking tickets and traveling by train.

Read My Guide to Train Travel in Italy Here

Many will recommend purchasing a Rail Pass for your trip to Italy. A Rail Pass allows you to ride many trains in Italy without a reservation. This means you can hop onto almost any train in Italy. You can read more about it in my Italy Train Guide . Depending on the length of your trip, how often you’ll be riding trains, which trains you’ll be taking, and how many countries you’re planning to visit in Europe , it can be a great deal…

But it can also be a waste of money . For these itineraries, I don’t recommend buying one. I’ve done the math on each of these itineraries and I don’t think it’s worth it. If you are straying from any of these Italy itineraries, you really need to do the math and decide if it’s right for you. This Italy Train Guide lays all of the information out for you.

There are some areas in Italy that I think it’s definitely worth renting a car! In the northern lakes, dolomites, Sardinia, and Tuscany are all great places to drive in Italy. That can be a little terrifying in some areas. Be sure to read this guide to driving in Italy.  I always tell people that once you drive in Italy you can drive anywhere!

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

How much does a trip to Italy cost you ask? Your trip to Italy cost will be very different than the next person. You’ll need to budget for your 10 days in Italy. Your budget will depend a lot on where you choose to go. Large cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence will be more expensive than staying in the countryside.

Italy uses the Euro like a lot of Europe. The exchange rate is usually around .90 Euros to 1 USD. Food costs around the same as in the US, fuel is a lot more expensive, and accommodation will vary widely.

I would plan on spending around €100-300/night for accommodations depending on your group size and level of luxury. If you’re a small group, VRBOs and house rentals can be very cheap! If you’re traveling Italy on a budget, I highly recommend using VRBOs over hotels.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’ll want to follow my basic advice, especially if its your first trip to Italy!

• Learn a few basic words in Italian (grazie, ciao, preggo)
• Be sure to validate your train tickets (avoid getting a €300 fine and read this! )
• Try the local food and venture away from the main tourist sites to get it
• Be sure to pack an Italy-specific power adapter (they have 2 types of plugs). I use THIS ONE for Italy specific plugs.   And THIS ONE for European plugs also found in Italy. 
• Beware of pickpockets ( you can learn about what happened to me here )
• Beware of a Coperto charge. This is a charge to sit and eat.
• Read my Tips for Visiting Europe

Where to go in Italy you ask? When planning your trip to Italy, think about what is most important to you. The country is so large, it can be overwhelming. After visiting Italy 5 separate times, I have found it best to focus on one region of the country at a time if possible. I know that it’s so hard to visit Italy and not want to see it all, but you won’t want to spend your entire trip on a train, or in a car, or on a plane.

See this list of the best places to see in Italy

While it’s tough to say just which are the best places to visit in Italy, because, let’s be honest, all of Italy is so dang amazing, I do have some personal favorite Italy vacations. When I help friends plan their trip to Italy, I like to give them a little taste of everything: city, history, nature, beach, culture, and food!

I love getting off the beaten path, but there are just some places that are a must see in Italy! There are literally hundreds of choices you can make for your first Italy itinerary, and they would all be amazing. Every person or group has different preferences and interests. That’s why I have created five different 10 day Italy itinerary ideas for you.

You’ll have tons of amazing things to do in Italy, and what you choose to do will largely depend on where you go and what time of year you go, but here are some of the top things to do in Italy:

• Take a cooking class
• Eat gelato at least twice a day
• Go to the beach
• Visit ancient ruins
• Ride on a Vespa

Download my FREE Italy Bucket List by clicking here.

Packing for Italy can be tricky depending on the time of year you’re visiting. Our family backpacked around Europe , spending an entire month in Italy. You can see our Italy Packing List here. No matter what time of year you go, be sure to pack a good pair of walking shoes. I love these sandals for warmer months and these boots for colder months.

The Best Way to See Italy in 10 Days 5 Italy Itinerary Ideas

I’ve compiled 5 itineraries for your 10 day trip to Italy. Any of these will be a great choice, it just depends on your personal preferences and what you really want to prioritize during your time in Italy. I’ve made some really classic itineraries and some more off the beaten path itineraries! Each Italy trip itinerary has been tried and tested by myself and I can highly recommend any of them. These are my top 5 Italy vacation ideas.

When to go: Shoulder Season (April-May or September-October)

This is one of the best Italy vacations for really energetic and active travelers. This itinerary is great for those visiting Italy for the first time, who think they may never have the opportunity to return again. Not everyone travels all the time, which is totally understandable. Some can’t afford to travel often, and some don’t really want to. If you think you’ll only be in Italy once in your life, this is the itinerary for you. It’s definitely an aggressive itinerary that requires you to move through the country nearly every day and spend about one day in each city, but it can be done!

I’ve done this Italy itinerary several times with friends and with my kids. It’s exhausting, but doable, and you’ll so SO much!

If you want to make your life easier, you can purchase this full itinerary , which includes interactive maps, an hour by hour guide, walking you through each moment of your trip. This full itinerary provides you with specific tours and classes, and exact train schedules, as well as recommended accommodations. My interactive 40 page PDF contains everything you need to pull off this amazing itinerary! 

Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, & Venice

Day 1: rome, day 2: rome, day 5: florence & pisa, day 9: venice, day 10: venice.

Most affordable flights to Italy will take you to Rome. It’s where I’ve flown into every time I’ve visited Italy. But shop around and find the best deal because you can begin this Italy itinerary at any point.

You can start your Italy itinerary anywhere you wish, but I always recommend starting in Rome . Rome is the third most visited city in Europe, after Paris and London, with 7-10 million visitors per year, and for good reason.

Rome is full of art, history, culture, and amazing food. It is incredible to wander down a street and suddenly come upon an ancient structure or statue! Ancient history is everywhere in this large city.

When you first arrive in Rome, jetlag will probably get the best of you. Give yourself a day to recover and take in all the beauty (and gelato ) that this ancient city has to offer. You’re going to get here and never want to leave.

There is so much to see and do in Rome, it could literally take you a lifetime. Don’t be discouraged by not being able to do it all. There is still so much that you can see just in a day and a half! Be sure to read my guide to Rome in One Day before you go.

Things you shouldn’t miss in Rome:

• Wake up early to beat the crowds
• Vespa Tour of Rome ( more info here Seriously one of the best things to do in Italy)
• Tour the Colosseum BOOK HERE
• See St. Peter’s Basilica BOOK HERE
• Wander Trastevere

Read More: What to do in Rome for a Day

You can easily get from Rome to the Amalfi coast by taking the train from Rome to Naples . From there, I recommend either taking the bus system along the coast, hiring a driver, or renting a car. Or even better, a Vespa! Parking is crazy along the Amalfi Coast . There are parking garages, but they fill up fast and cost a lot, so just be prepared and bring cash.

Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Cost: $24- Adults $12- Children

The Amalfi Coast is a gorgeous stretch of coastline that you could honestly spend weeks in, lazing away on the picturesque beaches and soaking up the sun. But if you’re on a mission to see it all, take an entire day to relax and enjoy the sites. There are many small towns dotting the winding coastline. I recommend picking one and spending a few hours at the beach.

I personally love the beach at Atrani because you don’t have to walk down a thousand stairs like Positano, but you still get that beautiful and classic look of Amalfi! You can rent 2 beach chairs and an umbrella on the beach for €20 cash.

Here are the things you cannot miss on the Amalfi Coast

• Spend at least one day on the beach
• Drive along the coast
• Take a day trip to Capri BOOK HERE
• Discover more things to do on the Amalfi Coast here

After you’ve had a relaxing day on the Amalfi Coast, it’s time to head to another classic city in Italy: Florence! Hop back on the bus or rental car or taxi to Naples , then take the train to Florence .

Time: 2.5 hours Cost: $44- Adults $22- Children

Florence is a beautiful city that is home to much of Italy’s Renaissance art. Home to Michaelangelo, da Vinci, Brunelleschi, Buonarroti, and Botticelli just to name a few, Florence is overflowing with ancient art and architecture! Spend a day and a half exploring museums , walking along the Ponte Vecchio , and eating gelato in this renowned city of culture. Tours and tickets MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE ! Especially if you are going during the busy season.

Here are things you should not miss in Florence:

• See Michaelangelo’s David BOOK HERE
• Walk up the Duomo BOOK HERE
• Visit the Uffizi Gallery BOOK HERE
• Visit the Boboli Gardens

For the last half of your second day in Florence, I recommend a quick trip to Pisa on your way to Cinque Terre .

Time: 1 hour Cost: $11- Adults $5- Children

Head to Pisa to see the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa ! Yes, it’s touristy, but worth seeing, especially if this will be your only time in Italy. Going up to the top is really awesome. Kids must be 6 or older and you can book your tickets here.

After you’ve spent a few hours in Pisa, it’s time to head back on the train to Cinque Terre. Which town you train to will depend on which of the 5 towns you stay in. But if you don’t know that yet, you can book tickets to La Spezia and pick up a regional train to any of the towns Cinque Terre towns last minute.

Time: 1 hour Cost: $12- Adults $6- Children

Cinque Terre is one of my very favorite places in Italy ! It was one of my  best trips to Italy and i t’s what I picture parts of Italy must have looked 100 years ago! Cinque Terre, translated, means Five Lands , and is the area consisting of five villages:  Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore . They are all equally stunning, and whichever one you choose will be amazing. They all have their own special charm, and they also all have their own pros and cons. Read my complete guide to Cinque Terre to help you decide which town to stay in.

The beautiful towns built on cliffs are honestly one of the best things to see in Italy. Be sure to spend some time in the ocean during your time in Cinque Terre. Monterosso has a beautiful white sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas. I recommend that you spend at least two nights in Cinque Terre so that you have a full day and a half to explore all the towns. There is a train that goes between each town so that the area is very easy to navigate.

Here are things you should not miss in Cinque Terre:

• Visit all of the five towns by train
• Take the ferry at least once so you can see Cinque Terre from the water
• Eat gelato in every town

Once you’ve done some relaxing in Cinque Terre, hop on the train to Milan.

Time: 3.5 hours Cost: $26- Adults $13- Children

Stop into Milan for a quick trip to see the Duomo Cathedral and the Last Supper , which must be booked in advance ! Now you’re on your way to  Lake Como!

You have two great options for exploring Lake Como. You can either take the train and ferry around Lake Como, or you can rent a car. If you want to see more of the remote parts of Lake Como in the north, or just drive around the lake, I suggest you rent a car. But taking a train is simple and affordable. It’s just a matter of preference. I suggest that you take the train to Varenna where you can catch a ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio, Lake Como’s major towns.

Time: 40 minutes Cost: $8- Adults $4- Children

Welcome to one of my favorite places on earth. With gorgeous lakeside villas and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Italy. I recommend you spend your time boating around the lake and checking out all the magnificent houses, wandering the streets of Bellagio, and renting a scooter to explore.

Things you shouldn’t miss in Lake Como:

• Rent a boat
• Visit George Clooney
• Villa del Balbianello (from Star Wars)

It’s time for your last train ride in Italy! Take the train from Varenna to Venice (be sure to book San Lucia and not Mestre). This will take you to the heart of Venice. From there you can take a water taxi or water bus to anywhere in the city.

Time: 4 hours Cost: $36- Adults $18- Children

You’ll be spending the last two days of your Italy trip in the lovely Venice. There’s no place on earth like it! Spend your last moments in Italy floating down the canals, getting lost in the winding alleyways, and eating gelato ! Read all about what to do in Venice before going.

Things not to miss in Venice:

• Gondola ride BOOK HERE
• Boat Ride to Colorful Burano BOOK HERE
• Murano Glass tour BOOK HERE
• Doge’s Palace & Bridge of Sighs BOOK HERE
• Book a Photoshoot in Venice: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.

If this itinerary feels right for your 10 days in Italy, you can get the complete itinerary here. Let me do all the work for you! 

This is the best Italy itinerary for someone who wants a really classic experience . It covers the most important sites and major cities in Italy that most visitors will want to see on their first trip to Italy. This Italy itinerary allows you to spend a few days in each location, so you can get to know each city a little better. You can do this itinerary in any order, but most people choose to start in Rome.

Rome, Florence, & Venice

Day 1-3: rome.

You’ll begin your classic tour of Italy in the capital of Italy. There is so much to see in Rome, you’ll be glad you have three days to see it!

Here are some ideas for your 3 days in Rome:

• I recommend getting up early in the mornings to see sites like the Pantheon and Spanish Steps before the rest of the tourists wake up. The city is so beautiful in the morning light.
• Your first day in Rome is a great day to take a guided tour of the city so that you can get a lay of the land and check the main sites off. I recommend taking a Vespa Tour! It’s so much fun and even kids can go. Knowledgable tour guides drive you around the entire city, stopping to show you classic and little-known sites. They even stop for gelato. Read here for more Vespa Tour information.
• Eat dinner in Trastevere , where you’ll find many tiny little restaurants all serving delicious and authentic Italian cuisine.
• Try several gelato shops each day to find your favorite. Read this to find out the best gelato shops in Italy. My personal favorite is Gelato del Teatro!
• Take a cooking class . Rome is home to some of the best food in the world. Don’t skip out on learning how to make it yourself. This cooking class is amazing and I love this food tour.
• If you’re visiting Rome with Kids, there is so much to do! My kids love Rome, and not just for the gelato. Read my guide to Rome with kids.
• Book a Photoshoot in Rome: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.

You can take a direct train from Rome to Florence in under an hour and a half. It’s an easy train ride from city center to city center.

Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Cost: $22- Adults $11- Children

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a must for your classic trip to Italy. You’ll have the opportunity to see celebrated artwork and architecture.

Some ideas for how to spend your next few days in Florence:

• Walk the Ponte Vecchio: This ancient bridge has been around forever and is one of the most iconic sites in Florence.
• Take a Food Tour of Florence: BOOK HERE
• Take pictures in the iconic Florence photobooth
• Book a Photoshoot in Florence: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.
• Walk up the Duomo . You’ll need to get tickets for this, but this massive, iconic building is just gorgeous.
• Tour the many museums of Florence. Don’t miss Michaelangelo’s David.

You can easily get from Florence to Venice by train. Be sure to buy tickets to Venice Santa Lucia and NOT Mestre ! Santa Lucia will take you directly to the archipelago of Venice while Mestre takes you to the industrial part of Venice.

Time: 2 hours Cost: $37- Adults $17- Children

Spend the last few days of your classic Italy itinerary in Venice. It’s one of the best cities in Italy and unlike anywhere else in the world. If you play it right, Venice can be a relaxing way to end your trip. I seriously recommend waking up with the sun and exploring Venice in the early hours while it’s quiet and not overcrowded. It is truly beautiful. When it starts to get too busy or hot, go back to the hotel and take a nap! Then go back out around dinner time and explore until dark. I’ve done this during several trips to Venice and it was perfect!

Be sure to take advantage of the Vaporetto (public water transportation) and visit the islands of Murano and Burano!

Here are some ideas of things to do during your time in Venice:

• Take a Mask Making Class BOOK HERE
• Take a Murano Glass Tour BOOK HERE
• Visit Burano BOOK HERE
• Take a Gondola Ride BOOK HERE
• Go on a Food Tour BOOK HERE

When to go: Summer

This Lakes of Northern Italy itinerary is one of my favorites, and not something that most people try. This is best Italy itinerary if you’re intereseted in exploring the beautiful lakes of Northern Italy. It’s some of the most gorgeous scenery you’ll ever see in your life.

I love this itinerary for a family trip to Italy. I do recommend that if you choose this itinerary, you book a trip for late spring or early fall as the lakes do get crowded during the summer, and are very cold during the winter months.

Each lake has something unique to offer and it’s worth visiting all of them, but if this itinerary seems a little intense for your 10 days in Italy, I recommend cutting out one or two lakes and just sticking with two or three areas. The great thing about this itinerary is that you’ll also be able to see Milan, so you’ll get a taste of a large Italian city while also enjoying the countryside and beach time.

For this Northern Italy itinerary, I highly recommend flying into Milan and renting a car. The lakes and northern scenery can be best seen while taking leisurely winding drives around the lakes.

Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Como, & Lake Maggiore

On your first day of this 10 day Italy itienrary, you will fly into Milan. Here you can spend an entire day or half day exploring the city. Be sure not to miss the imposing Duomo of Milan and The Last Supper if you are interested in art history.

Known for its crystal clear waters, Lake Garda is a beautiful destination for relaxation and fun. Be sure to visit the stunning Scaligero Castle for magnificent views. You can also visit Gardaland , a great family amusement park!

Lake Iseo, known as Lago d’Iseo is a little-known lake between Garda and Como that is a hidden gem in Italy. You can spend your time here hiking, ferrying across the lake, or visiting Grumello Castle.

Lake Como is one of the best places in Italy and one of my favorite places on earth. Yes, it’s popular, but its worth spending at least a few days here. We spent several months and never got sick of it! Rent a boat and cruise the lake yourself and visit the famous town of Bellagio. You can read all about what to do in Lake Como here. 

Laggo Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy and claims both Italy and Switzerland as it crosses the borders. It is located just south of the Swiss Alps which means there are beautiful mountains surrounding the lake all with incredible views. As such a large lake, you have many options for where to stay. There are beautiful lush gardens and old villas dotting the lake. you really can’t go wrong!

Head back to Milan after your wonderful 10 days on the lakes of Italy.

Sardinia and Sicily are the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea and are both worth visiting. You can easily ferry between the two islands via an overnight ferry, which can be really fun. Both islands offer a unique taste of Italy that is something a little different from the mainland boot!

Sardinia & Sicily

Spend 5 days on this beautiful Italian island that is the second largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s one of my favorite places to go in Italy to enjoy the beach! With over 1,200 miles of gorgeous coastline, sandy beaches, Star Wars-esque rocky beaches, beautiful mountains, and centuries of history, it’s an easy choice for anyone looking for a tropical Italian holiday. Italy beaches are known as some of the best in the world, and, in my opinion, most of them are on Sardinia!

Sardinia is known as a “Blue Zone” which means that people who live here live longer than anyone on Earth. The people there are so friendly, the food is amazing, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking!

You can fly to Sardinia, or you can take the ferry from Livorno to Olbia, or take the ferry from Sicily to Cagliari. Depending on which side of the island you decide to spend most of your time on (remember, it’s huge) either one of these could work for you.

Time: Livorno to Olbia: 8 Hours Trapani to Cagliari: 11 hours Cost: Around $70/person with a car (extra for private room for overnight ferry)

Mountains, history, food, beaches…Sicily really does have it all! It’s one of the best places to vacation in Italy for sun lovers. Located in the soccer ball of Italy, just off the toe of the infamous boot, Sicily is the largest Meddeteranian island and worth spending a few days on. Sicily boasts some of the best beaches in Italy and evenin the world, like Cefalu, San Vito Lo Capo, Isola Bella, but also offers a rich history and culture as well as a delicious tradition of cullinary delights. Spend time on the beach, hiking, visiting ancient ruins , and tasting classic Sicilian food . It’s a great place to take a cooking class (BOOK HERE) .

Sicily is a great place to have a car so that you can really see the island. Read this guide to an Italy   road trip in Sicily .

You can fly to Sicily or take the ferry over. Flying into Naples and driving 4.5 hours down the coast can be beautiful and gives you the option of stopping in the Amalfi coast if you have time.

Time: Naples to Sicily: 5 Hours Cost: $40/person (ferry)

Exploring Tuscany is one of the most classic Italian experiences you can have. What I love about visiting Tuscany, especially as a family, is that it is laid back and you can usually rent a nice villa with a pool for a good price on VRBO, while being surrounded by enchanting scenery. I’ve created a list here of beautiful villas in Tuscany at affordable prices (ps. most of them have pools)!

For this Tuscany Itinerary, I highly recommend picking a home base in one place and taking day trips from there. Everywhere on this list is an easy drive or train ride from anywhere in Tuscany. Maybe take a day trip every other day from your home base. This is perfect if you want to do an Italy road trip through Tuscany.

If you’d rather base yourself in Florence and take a day trip to San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti, this is a great tour that hits all those locations.

Florence, Siena, Chianti, San Gimignano, &

Visit Florence for a day trip. Enjoy the ancient feel the the city, walk the Ponte Vecchio, visit famous museums and see incredible artwork!

Spend time enjoying your Tuscan Villa. Look for cooking classes near you and try local food.

Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Lucca, stopping in Pisa on your way there. Climb up the leaning tower of Pisa (you must book in advance) .

Spend the majority of your time in Lucca, an amazing walled city, largely free from traffic and filled with beautiful architecture. I think it’s one of the best cities to visit in Italy. Rent a bike and ride around the ancient walls of the city. You can even take a self-guided bike tour of the city.   Be sure to grab a few gelatos during your time in Lucca as these were some of my favorite gelato shops in Italy.

Take a day to explore your own little Tuscan town. Sometimes the local hidden gems can be your favorite part of your trip to Italy! You never know what you’ll find. As the locals what they recommend doing nearby.

With lush vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop towns, Chianti is a beautiful region of Tuscany. This is a great area to take a scenic drive or rent bikes to enjoy more views. If you’d like some help seeing Chianti, you can actually book a half day tour that will take you to all the best spots.

San Gimignano is a beautiful and well-kept walled city in Tuscany. This medival city still has its original house towers.

This beautiful medival town will steal your heart the moment you enter its walls. Be prepared to climb some steep hills in Siena. Grab a pizza and hang out on the Piazza del Campo, the fan shaped public square where everyone comes to enjoy the city.

Spend one last day in Florence seeing the sites before heading home.

Whichever itinerary you choose for your trip to Italy will be wonderful. You really can’t go wrong by choosing any of these. I love helping my readers plan their travel, so if you need any help please reach out to me on Facebook or Instagram . You can learn more information about traveling to Italy on my Italy Website, I Heart Italy . If you want some great tips on traveling Italy, join my Italy Travel Group on Facebook for more helpful tips!

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Wanderlust Crew

26 thoughts on “ how to spend 10 days in italy: 5 italy itinerary ideas for 2024 ”.

Thanks for your detailed descriptions of each place. I am so tempted to visit all of them but I will be on a cruise this time. If you only have one day to visit between Pisa, Florence, and Cinque Terre, which one(s) would you recommend? We are a group of multi-generation travellers (incl 1 72 yo and 1 4 yo kid). Thanks.

Hi Angie! A cruise sounds so incredible!! You’re going to love Italy. Hands down I would choose Cinque Terre! All 5 towns are so incredible and they are easily accessible by the trains. Not sure of the stamina of the 72 year old and the 4 year old, but I would avoid Corniglia just because there are a million stairs! There IS a bus that will take you from the train station to the top of the town though, but it was very crowded and unreliable. Riomaggiore and Vernazza were my favorites though. You’re going to love it! Let me know where you end up going! Have the best time!! xo Vanessa

Just purchased your 10 day itinerary and love it! Hubby and I are planning for Sept/Oct 2020 for 2 weeks. We are thinking about using 5-6 of those days to visit Sardina while we are there. Any suggestions for trimming a few days off the 10 day itinerary and suggestions for Sardinia. Or, is it too much to add Sardinia in 2 weeks? Thanks! Erin

Hi Erin, I’d cut out Lake Como and Venice and head to Sardinia instead. We spent a month in Sardinia last year and loved it. It’s super low key and not very touristy! Feel free to email me if you’d like help with a customized itinerary. xo Vanessa

Hi there. We are a family of three (1 son age 13yo) traveling to Italy in mid/end of May 2020. We definitely want to see Rome and then I am torn between going north(Florence/NW(Cinque Terre)/really North Dolomites/Alps)or South towards Sorrento and Amalfi coast. We have 10 days flying out of NYC. We are first time visitors to Italy and don’t want a jam packed schedule. Can you point me in the right direction? Love all your info! TY!

Hey Diane! That sounds like an amazing trip. I agree, especially with teens you don’t want to pack too much in. How long are you in Italy for? I would recommend flying into Rome, spending 2-3 days there, then catching the train to Cinque Terre. Then spend a day in Florence and see the famous artwork. With teens I like to break up the history/culture with some beach time! You can read more about Cinque Terre here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/things-to-do-in-cinque-terre/ May is a great time to go. Great weather, but not too crazy busy! Let me know if you need more help planning! xo Vanessa

We are there for 10 days. I decided Rome/Florence for day/Cinque Terre/Lake region and home out of Milan. I have read all your i fo and LOVE it. Ty!

That sounds perfect! Definitely spend some time in Lake Como!! It’s one of my favorite places ever! Good luck and holler if you need help! Enjoy!

What do you do with the bags, when you do the half day tour to Pisa enroute to Cinque Terre. Is there storage facility at the train station?

Hey Danny! Great question! There are storage lockers in the Pisa Train station. You can find that here: https://www.stowyourbags.com/en/shop/pisa/luggage-storage-pisa-centrale-station/

Hi there. We are couple planning our vacation to Italy, we will be there for 12 days. We are flying into Rome so we will spend some time there, we also plan on going down to the Amalfi coast. We would like to add another spot or two to visit during our trip, we’ve both been to Florence, so we were thinking about maybe doing an Airbnb in Tuscany, or perhaps going somewhere south since we’ll be in Amalfi. We are not really sure what to do. Any suggestions/or recommendations would be appreciated. Thank you!

Hi Charles. Have you thought of visiting Puglia or hopping a flight to Sardinia or Sicily for something a little different? Renting a house in Tuscany would also be lovely. You honestly can’t go wrong!

Great post with lots of helpful information in Italy travel. Italy is my favorite country, I just can’t get enough of it!

Thanks Whitney. Italy has everything! Love it!

Hi – We are family of 4 which includes boys age of 5 and 10. We are visiting Italy for 11 days in March 9-20. I am more concern about the weather than anything else. What cities should I cover?

Hi Rohan, Italy will be great! The weather will vary greatly in March depending on what area you’re going to. If you want warmer, definitely stay south. If you need any help planning feel free to email me at [email protected] xo Vanessa

This guide is amazing! My boyfriend and I will be in Italy for 12 days at the end of December and beginning of January. It will be our first time and we are having a hard time because we want to see everything. Any recommendations for this time of the year? We heard that the Amalfi Coast shuts down during the winter. Should we save that for another trip? Thanks!

Hey Katie. So exciting about Italy! You guys will love it! Amalfi does sort of shut down, but it’s also great to see it without hordes of tourists. Cinque Terre is also another amazing place. Are you doing Venice? It’s beautiful at Christmas time.

This is the first truly helpful piece of content I’ve read trying to plan my honeymoon in Italy and not knowing where to start. Super grateful that I came across this!

This is a fantastic guide! Thank you! My husband and I are planning for one week in May – 9-10 days max. So wondering if I do your “see-it-all” itinerary but take out Lake Como and Milan. That’ll give me time to do a day trip to Capri right? How would you break up the 10 days for Rome, Amalfi (Positano & Capri), Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre and Venice?

Yes you could definitely cut out anything. I think 2 days in each location is sufficient. 1 day for Capri.

We plan on visiting Italy in the fall and hitting Rome-Amalfi-Naples(Pompeii and Mt.Vesuv)-Florence-Venice. We planned to fly in to Rome, but we’re just wondering if you typically book a flight out from Milan or another city at the end of these itineraries or just take a train back down to Rome for the last day so you can book round trip? We were also interested in maybe spending a day relaxing at a winery and visiting a hot spring. Would Florence be a good spot for that? Thanks!

Tuscany is a great place to relax at a winery. If it’s cheaper to fly round trip out of Rome, I would just take the train from Milan to Rome. The trains are really affordable in Italy. Here is some more train info that might be helpful: https://iheartitaly.co/train-italy/

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Anyone with recent experience with my day trip.com? - Italy Forum

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I've not heard of them. It's always better to book with well known, reputable companies such as Avis or Hertz.

Be aware that you cannot drive into any city you plan to visit so be sure your route doesn't take you through any ZTL's and that you have an IDP before leaving home or the rental company can refuse the rental without refund.

I would take the local Circumvesuviana train to Pompei from Naples and then take it from Pompei to Sorrento then either ferry/ car service to Positano

Parking in Positano is challenging and very pricey - you can't park on the streets as that is for residents and since the village (and, all the Amalfi Coast villa ges) are primarily pedestrian only, the car is nothing but a big, expensive hinderance

I've never heard of whatever this daytrip.com website is either - What do they do? You sure don't need it for the Pompei or the Amalfi Coast - the public transportation (trains, ferries primarily) are the best way to explore the area.

Thanks for the info! Will be booking with them!

Did you end up taking a private transfer through MyDaytrip.com? If so, how did it go? I'm also considering booking them.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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The Ultimate 14-Day Italy Travel Itinerary

LAST UPDATED: 2/25/24 – Ultimate 14-Day Italy Travel Itinerary

The country of Italy is a beautiful and exciting place with a seemingly endless number of amazing things to see and do. It is no wonder then, that Italy is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. If you are planning a trip to Italy soon, you will want to review my Ultimate 14-Day Italy Travel Itinerary to make sure you don’t miss out on some of the country’s most popular sights and activities.

Without a proper plan in place, it is very easy to miss out on an important sight or activity and regret it later. Using this itinerary as a blueprint, you can start to build your big Italian adventure knowing that you have a wealth of information and experience at your fingertips.

See Many of Italy’s Top Destinations

While my itinerary doesn’t cover every region of Italy, it does cover some of the most popular tourist destinations within this amazing country. On your two-week Italian adventure, you will get to explore all of the treasures in the amazing cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence. You will also have the opportunity to explore breathtakingly beautiful regions such as the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany. To top it off, you will even get a chance to visit the amazing island of Capri, which is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Included in this Italy travel itinerary are numerous links to in-depth guides that I have developed for each of these regions of Italy. As you start to fill out your personal travel itinerary, these guides will be invaluable resources that you can use to choose the proper accommodations, decide which restaurants you want to try, lay out your daily plans for sightseeing in the region, and book fun and exciting tours and excursions that you will remember for a lifetime. With this wealth of information in hand, you can relax and enjoy the process of planning your trip and focus on the fun, less tedious aspects of planning your trip.

Italy Travel Itinerary Overview

This includes tasks such as making sure you have a valid passport and VISA for entry into the country. It also means confirming that you are up-to-date on the vaccinations that are recommended and required. Once you have done that, you will need to understand what you should and should not pack for your trip.

You will also need to determine what time of year to take your trip and how you will get around the country. Using the links below, you can quickly and easily navigate to the relevant sections of this guide as you start to check these items off your list.

Italy Travel Itinerary Guide Navigation Menu

The best times to visit italy.

When planning your big trip to Italy, one of the most important decisions that you will need to make is when to visit. Before you start looking at accommodations and arranging transportation, you need to know when you will be traveling. For many travelers, this is often one of the most stressful parts of planning a trip because there are so many different variables to consider.

In my opinion, the most important of these variables that you will want to consider are the weather and the number of other tourists that will be visiting when you do. The better the weather, the more time you will be able to spend outdoors exploring this amazing country. And with fewer other tourists around, you will have fewer crowds to contend with when you set out to see and do what interests you.

To make things easier for you as you start to plan this trip of a lifetime, I have compiled all of the weather and tourism data that you will want to consider when scheduling your trip to Italy within my Italy travel itinerary. Using this data, you will be able to pick the time of year that you find the weather to be the most enjoyable.

Average Temperature (°F)

One of the most important factors that you will want to consider before deciding when to visit Italy is the average temperature throughout the year. In the graph below, I have compiled the average high and low temperatures for Venice, Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast for each month of the year. Using this data, you can easily determine which month of the year will be the most comfortable for you as you start to put together your Italy travel itinerary.

Average Precipitation Level (Inches)

Another factor that you will want to consider when deciding when to visit Italy is the average amount of precipitation that each region of Italy you will be visiting typically gets. After all, it can be difficult to get outside and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and cities when it is raining a lot. If you take a look at the graph below, you will see the average amount of precipitation for Venice, Rome, Florence, and Amalfi Coast throughout the year.

Using this data, you can decide which time of year gives you the highest probability of having nice weather during your trip as you start to fill in your Italy travel itinerary.

Average Number of Visitors (Millions)

The last major factor that you will want to consider when determining which time of year is the best time for you to visit Italy is the number of other visitors that you can expect to be visiting while you are there. To give you an idea of how many other tourists you can expect to encounter in Italy throughout the year, I used Statista’s analysis of the number of tourist arrivals and guest accommodations in Italy.

In addition to having an impact on the crowds you will encounter, the number of other tourists visiting during your trip will also impact the availability and price of excursions and tours. However, most importantly, it will be a large factor in the price of your airline tickets and accommodations while in Italy.

The Best Months to Plan Your Trip to Italy

As you look at the temperature, precipitation, and visitor numbers for Italy, it is clear that some months are better for visiting than others. For instance, the months of June through August tend to be quite hot in Italy. This is especially true for July and August. If you want to avoid the heat, you should avoid visiting during these months.

I would also avoid visiting during the autumn months of October through December, as those are typically the wettest months of the year in Italy. Not to mention, it can also get quite cool between November and March. Unless you like wet and rainy conditions, I would avoid planning your trip during late autumn or winter.

In my opinion, the best months to visit Italy are the shoulder months of May and September. The weather is typically warm, but not too hot, and there is usually little rain. This gives you the best weather window to get out and enjoy the sites during your adventure in Italy.

How to Get to Italy for Your Trip

There are many different international airports in Italy, so if you are planning on flying in from outside of the country, you have a lot of options to choose from. If you follow the Italy travel itinerary that I have outlined for you here, there are four major international airports that you can choose from to fly into and out of. For your reference, I have listed those airports for your review.

Major International Airports You Can Fly Into for This Itinerary

• Rome – Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO)
• Venice – Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
• Naples – Naples International Airport (NAP)
• Florence – Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)

To save time, I would strongly suggest that you fly into and out of different airports. This will prevent having to backtrack significantly when it is time to fly home. However, if you would prefer to fly into and out of the same airport, or find significantly cheaper airfare by doing so, then you can easily modify this Italy travel itinerary to meet those needs. As you start to plan your trip, there are several different options that you can choose from when laying out the logistics of your trip.

There Are Multiple Ways to Plan This Trip

You can start by flying into Venice and then work your way down to Naples, where you will fly home. There is also the option of flying into Naples and then working your way up to Venice, where you will end your trip. For the sake of this guide, I am going to outline a modified Italy travel itinerary where you fly into Rome, work your way down to the Amalfi Coast, then work your way back up to Venice, where you will fly home at the end of your trip. This will allow you to fly into and out of two of Italy’s largest airports where there are more flight options. However, feel free to modify this itinerary in any way that you see fit to meet your travel needs.

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Italy Passport Requirements

When visiting Italy, you must have at least 6 months of validity on your passport beyond the date on which you are planning on arriving in the country.  You will also need to have at least two blank passport pages to be processed into the country. 

Presently, you do not need to have a Visa if you are planning on staying in the Schengen area of the EU for less than 90 days, but starting in 2025 American citizens will be required to get a  European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) authorization . Before you start making your travel plans, I would strongly suggest you review the passport and Visa requirements I have laid out in my Italy travel itinerary guide below.

Recommended Travel Immunizations for Italy

Before you leave for your trip to Italy, you need to make sure you have all of the proper vaccinations.  Not only to protect yourself but to protect others.  You may have questions on what immunizations you need and what to look out for when getting them. If you do, I have included some general guidelines I can pass on to you from my experience below.

• Most specialized travel clinics will not accept insurance so you will have to pay for your travel consultation and immunizations and then request reimbursement from your insurance company later.
• Some immunizations aren’t accepted by every insurance company, so check with your insurance provider before getting your immunizations.
• Check with your regular doctor first, as often they can do a travel consultation for you and write you the necessary prescriptions for your immunizations, even if they aren’t able to give them to you.  This way you can ensure that at least your travel consultant will be covered by your insurance up-front.
• Check with  Walgreens   or other drug stores that give flu shots to see if they have any of the immunization shots that you require before going to a specialized clinic that doesn’t accept insurance to get them.  Walgreens can give you many of the immunizations necessary for international travel, and they accept insurance up-front.
• The  Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website   can be a great resource for answering any travel immunization questions that you have.

Italy Immunization Recommendations

In case you are unsure of what travel vaccinations you might need, I have compiled a list below of some of what you might expect your physician to recommend.

• Hepatitis A & B  (if you haven’t had them).
• Tetanus  (if you aren’t current).
• Transderm SCōP Patch (for motion sickness) or at minimum Dramamine pills if you get motion sickness easily and you plan on getting out on the water or doing adventure activities.

Italy Travel Packing Tips

Outside of knowing the entry and immunization requirements, there is no pre-travel task more important than packing. Don’t worry, I am here to make sure you are packed and prepared for your trip. I have included links to my packing resources in my Italy travel itinerary guide below for you to review.

Planning Your Transportation in Italy

When it comes to arranging your transportation for the trip, getting from Italy is just half the battle.  Once you arrive in Italy, you are going to need a way to get around.  There are several different methods of transportation you can choose from, depending on the amount of time you will be in-country and your comfort level with driving.

The two most popular options to choose from are renting a car and using the train system. Before you decide which method of transportation is best for you, I have outlined the important considerations for each of these transportation methods for you to review in my Italy travel itinerary below.

Renting a Car

If you are comfortable driving a car abroad, renting a car to get around while in Italy is one option that you can consider. Unlike public transportation, you aren’t subjected to a schedule when planning your travel from one place to another. Ultimately, this means you have much more freedom to do what you want when you want to do it while in Italy.

Italy Car Rental Tips

However, it does come with responsibilities that you don’t need to worry about when using public transportation. This includes paying tolls, finding parking, and filling up with gas when you run low. If you are considering renting a car for your trip, I have included some important tips for you to consider below.

Airport Rental Tips

• The main car rental companies in Europe are Avis , Hertz , Budget , Europcar , and Sixt .
• If you choose to pick up your car while at the airport, you will likely get charged an extra fee.  To save money, you can consider renting from a location outside the airport.   Whether the cost savings on the rental is worth it or not will depend on the cost of transportation to pick up the car and the amount of time it will require.
• In Italy, CDW car rental insurance is mandatory in Italy and rental companies will not let you leave the lot with a car without it. You will be asked to sign a waiver stating that you have car insurance that covers you overseas and you will be responsible for all damages to the vehicle you rent. If you plan on purchasing insurance from the rental company, it is almost always cheaper to select when you make the reservation than it is to add it at the rental counter during vehicle pick-up.
• Unless you specify that you want an automatic transmission when you make your reservation, you will almost always be given a vehicle with a manual transmission.
• Most car rental companies in Europe will charge you an extra fee to take your rental car outside the country, so I would check with the car rental company you decide to use before taking your rental car outside of Italy.

Driving Regulation Tips

• The legal driving age in Italy is 18 years of age, but you also need to have your license for a year before you can rent a car. Most car rental companies will charge you an extra fee if you are under the age of 25 years.
• Never drive in zones marked as Zona Traffico Limitato  (ZTL) or  Area Pedonale . These pedestrian zones are often monitored by traffic cameras and you will be fined.
• The maximum speed limit on highways is 130 kilometers per hour and 60 kilometers per hour within most towns, so be aware of your speed when you aren’t sure of the posted speed limit.
• Never turn right on red lights. While this is commonly acceptable in the United States, it is generally against the law in Europe. So unless you see a sign that explicitly says that you are allowed to turn right on a red light, always wait for the light to turn green.
• As long as you have a valid US driver’s license, you should not need an international driver’s license to drive in Italy.
• In Italy, motorists drive on the right side of the road and the driver’s seat is on the left side of the car.
• Italy uses the metric system, so mileage is listed in kilometers instead of miles.

Using the Rail System

If you aren’t comfortable driving while overseas or just want to avoid the hassle of having to find parking for your rental car, navigate from city to city, and deal with the heavy traffic in some of Italy’s largest cities, a popular alternative is to use Italy’s amazing rail system to get from city-to-city and then use taxis or ride share services to get around each of the cities you visit.

Italy Rail System Tips

The downside of using the train system is that you will have to be aware of your time and make sure you plan your train rides well in advance so that you don’t miss out on some of your trips by not getting where you need to go when you need to be there. If you are considering using the rail system during your trip, I have included some important tips for you to consider below.

Purchasing Rail Passes

• If you are only planning on traveling within Italy, it may not make sense for you to purchase a rail pass. Instead, it will likely be cheaper for you to purchase point-to-point tickets for your train rides separately. The rail passes in Italy tend to be more than $50 per day and you will likely spend less than that amount on second-class point-to-point tickets between Naples, Rome, Florence, and Venice. Before you make a decision on whether or not to purchase rail passes, I would suggest using the railway fare map I included below to price out how much you would be charged for all of your point-to-point tickets and then compare that total price to the cost of a rail pass on the Eurail website .
• Be aware, that even with a rail pass, some routes require that you purchase a reservation for some routes. These reservation costs are included in the fare route map I included below but are not included in the cost of the rail pass.
• The Italo trains run between Italy’s largest cities. If you purchase a rail pass, stick to the Le Frecce trains, which are covered by the rail pass and are typically quicker and run more frequently.
• The Circumvesuviana and Campania Express trains run between Naples Pompeii and Sorrento. If you plan on visiting the Amalfi Coast, this will impact you as the Circumvesuviana and Campania Express trains are the main options to use for getting from Naples to the Amalfi Coast region by train. These tickets typically only cost around $5.

Purchasing Train Tickets

• I would recommend purchasing tickets ahead of time if you know when you will be traveling to ensure that you get on the trains that you want. However, if you do need to purchase point-to-point tickets or reservations while in Italy, I would recommend taking advantage of the ticket machines at the train stations as opposed to waiting in the ticket lines to save yourself time.
• If you are 60 or older, you can buy a  Carta d’Argento , which gives you a 15% discount on most train tickets. They cost €30 for individuals between the ages of 60-74 and are free to those over the age of 75.
• Individuals under the age of 25 can purchase a Carta Verde , which gives you a 10% discount on most train tickets.
• Note that children under the age of 3 ride free on Italian trains. And while not free, kids between 4-11 ride for half-price on regional trains, and kids between 4-14 ride for half-price on long-distance routes.

Italy Travel Itinerary Outline

Now that we have covered some of the basics that you will need to know before you start planning your specific Italy travel itinerary, it is time to start putting your itinerary together. To make that process easier for you, I have included my recommended itinerary below. Your trip will essentially be broken up into four different stages, centered around four different major tourist destinations within Italy.

You will Start Your Trip in Historic Rome

You will start by flying into the city of Rome, where you will tour the city and the Vatican City for the first leg of your trip. After getting to see all of the amazing things that Rome has to offer, you will head south to the Amalfi Coast region. Here, you will enjoy the beautiful beaches, amazing coastline, and wonderful seafood that this region is known for.

As soon as you are finished touring the Amalfi Coast, you will head north to the city of Florence. After taking a day or two to tour the city, you will venture into the countryside to experience the beauty of the region of Italy known as Tuscany. In addition to enjoying the rolling hills and beautiful vineyards, you will get to tour some of Italy’s most amazing wineries.

You will End Your Trip in Beautiful Venice

When you have had your fill of wine, you will keep heading north until you get to the final destination on this Italy travel itinerary. In Venice, you will get to enjoy one of this world’s most amazing cityscapes. Between the breathtakingly stunning canals, beautiful bridges, and amazing historical buildings, you will really enjoy your time touring Venice before getting on a plane and heading home.

Day 1: Arriving in Rome

On the first day of the Italy travel itinerary that I have laid out, you will be arriving in Rome, Italy to begin your two-week adventure. When booking your flights, I would recommend trying to find a flight that gets you into Rome as early as possible.

This will give you time to settle into your accommodations and start exploring the city. If you would like some assistance in finding the right accommodations for you, I have included some recommendations on hotels and hostels in Rome in my Quintessential Rome, Italy Visitor Guide for you to review.

I have included an assortment of options at a variety of different price points near the top attractions in Rome to give you options when choosing the right accommodations for your trip. I have also included several restaurants that I recommend in my guide in case you are looking for a good restaurant to try for dinner after getting settled.

Day 2-3: Tour Rome

Rome is an amazing city with a wealth of history to explore. Because there is so much to see and do in the city and the surrounding area, I have set aside two days for you to explore Rome. To help you fill out your itinerary, I have included a link to my Quintessential Rome, Italy Visitor Guide below.

In my guide, I outline the top things to see and do in Rome during your visit. In addition, I have also included several different tours and excursions that I would recommend checking out if you have the time. Using my guide, you should have no trouble getting around the city and seeing all of the wonderful things that the city of Rome has to offer during your visit.

Day 4: Tour the Vatican

On the fourth day of my Italy travel itinerary, I have scheduled some time for you to explore the wonderful Vatican City near Rome. It’s a large and amazing place, so I would recommend setting aside the entire day to fully explore the Vatican.

I would recommend booking a tour of the Vatican rather than exploring it on your own. Not only will it ensure that you see everything and make your visit more memorable, but tours get priority on entrance and it will save you a bunch of time that you would otherwise spend waiting in line.

Expert Tip: I would strongly recommend booking a tour of Saint Peter’s tomb. They only let a very limited number of people tour the tomb each day, so you will need to make sure you book your tour well in advance (at least 3 months in advance). If you are using a tour company to tour the Vatican, I would let them know you are interested in this tour and they can help you get a reservation.

Day 5: Travel to Sorrento

After touring Rome and the Vatican, the next phase of my Italy travel itinerary has you heading south towards Naples, and then on to Sorrento, which will be your base of operations while you tour the Amalfi Coast.

Depending on how much time you want to spend in Rome, you can travel to Sorrento either early in the day on Day 5 of your trip or later that evening. I would recommend not getting in too late so that you can make sure you get settled properly and are ready to get out and explore right away on Day 6.

If you are looking for accommodations and restaurants in the Sorrento area, I would recommend checking out my Definitive Amalfi Coast Visitor Guide for recommendations. I have included an assortment of accommodation and restaurant options at a variety of different price points in my guide so that you can easily find what you need.

Day 6: Visit Capri

On Day 6 of my Italy travel itinerary, I suggest that you take a trip to the island of Capri to explore for the day. The island of Capri is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and an absolute must-see if you are visiting the Amalfi Coast.

You will need to arrange a ferry ride from Sorrento to Capri and back, so make sure you either purchase tickets in advance if you are sure about your travel dates or leave yourself ample time and flexibility to buy your tickets when you get there.

If you would like more information on travel from the island of Capri, as well as what to see and do while you are there, please refer to my Complete Capri Travel Guide linked below for my recommendations.

Days 7-8: Tour the Amalfi Coast

The next stop on the Italy travel itinerary I have laid out for you is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy. The Amalfi Coast is famed for its breathtaking coastline, colorful cities built up on the coastal bluffs, and delicious seafood and citrus fruits.

You will get to spend the next few days traveling down the Amalfi Coast and exploring all of the treasures that this quaint Italian region has to offer. If you are looking for recommendations on what to see, where to grab a bite to eat, and what tours and excursions are recommended in the area, I would suggest that you check out my Definitive Amalfi Coast Visitor Guide linked below.

Day 9: Travel to Florence

Once you have finished exploring all of the beauty on the Amalfi Coast, the next stop on the Italy travel itinerary I have laid out is the amazing city of Florence in Northern Italy. If you decide not to rent a car while in Italy, you will need to take a train from Sorrento to Naples, where you can catch a high-speed train to Florence. Considering the distance, the 3.5-hour train ride really isn’t that bad.

If you are driving, it will take you roughly 5.5 hours to get from Sorrento to Florence, so you might want to consider making your way North slowly or consider doing this trip from the top-down (starting in Venice and ending in Naples) or bottom-up (starting in Naples and ending in Venice). This will save you a considerable amount of driving time on your trip.

If you are looking for accommodations or restaurant recommendations in Florence, I would recommend reviewing my Florence, Italy Visitor Guide for recommendations. I have included an assortment of accommodation and restaurant options at a variety of different price points in my guide so that you can easily find what you need.

Day 10: Tour Florence

Few cities in the world, let alone Italy, have as much wealth of history as the amazing city of Florence. After arriving in Florence on Day 9 of the Italy travel itinerary, you will get to spend the rest of that day and the following day exploring all of the treasures that the city has to offer. I would suggest that you make the most of it, as there are many amazing things to see and do in the Florence area.

If you are looking for suggestions on what to see, where to eat, and what tours and excursions are recommended in Florence, I would suggest reading my Florence, Italy Visitor Guide linked below for my recommendations.

Day 11: Take a Tour to Tuscany

On the eleventh day of your Italian vacation, you will be taking a tour into one of the most popular tourist spots in Northern Italy. The Tuscany region of Italy is famed for its beautiful rolling hills and fantastic vineyards and wineries. If you have some extra time to extend your trip, this is one of the spots where I would recommend spending an extra few days if you have the time.

If you don’t have extra time, you should be able to get a good sense of the region by taking a day tour into the Tuscan countryside and touring some of the most popular vineyards and wineries in the region.

There is a wide range of tours available, so make sure you take the time to research the tour that is the most interesting to you. To give you a head start, I have linked TripAdvisor’s list of the best Tuscany wine tours and tastings for you to review below.

Day 12: Travel to Venice

When you are finished exploring Florence and Tuscany, the last stop on my Italy travel itinerary is one of the most amazing cities you will find in the world. Renowned all across the world for its romantic canals, its amazing annual Carnival festival, and its wealth of history, Venice is an absolute must-see destination when visiting Italy.

It’s roughly a three-hour trip from Florence to Venice, both by car or train, so you will want to decide how you spend your time on this travel day. You can travel mid-day and spend portions of each day touring each of these cities, travel in the evening if you need more time in Florence, or depart early in the morning if you would like to spend more time in Venice.

When I visited Venice, I was able to see what I wanted in one full day, so my personal recommendation is to spend at least some of the travel days further exploring Florence and Tuscany.

Venice is a large city, so there are a lot of options for you to choose from in terms of accommodations. If you are looking for recommendations, I would suggest reviewing my Venice, Italy Travel Guide for my suggestions. If you are interested, I also outline the top restaurants in the city that I would recommend trying during your stay. I have included an assortment of accommodation and restaurant options at a variety of different price points in my guide so that you can easily find what you need.

Day 13: Tour Venice

When most travelers think of Venice, the first thing that comes to mind is the beautiful canals and romantic gondola rides through the city. While this is a popular activity to enjoy while visiting Venice, it is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wonderful things to see and do while visiting the city.

The last full day of my Italy travel itinerary is dedicated to exploring Venice and all of the amazing things there are to see and do. If you are looking for suggestions on what to see, I have included my list of the top things to see and do in the city in my Venice, Italy Travel Guide linked below. I also outline some of the best tours and excursions you should consider during your stay in case you have extra time and would like to try something unique.

Day 14: Depart From Venice

On the final day of my Italy travel itinerary, you will be wrapping up your sightseeing and preparing to depart for home. If you follow my itinerary as I have laid it out for you in this guide, you will be departing for home from the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) in Venice.

In which case, you will want to leave yourself some extra time to get to the airport as you are going to need to catch a boat from the city back to the mainland of Italy. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare to the airport.

If you adjust this itinerary to follow the top-down or bottom-up options, you will either be flying out of Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) in Rome or Naples International Airport (NAP) . You will want to ensure that you have your transportation prepared so that you get to the airport in plenty of time to make your flight.

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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3 comments ›.

Your blog is amazing! We’ve travelled through Italy and your guide is thoroufh and valuable for anyone who is considering Italy as a travel destination.

Thank you so much for the kind words!! You absolutely made my day! 😃

I did not see the price, and what is included within the price , food or anything else?

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7 Days in Italy: 12 Amazing One Week Itineraries for Italy

Need some destination inspiration for a trip to Italy? Here’s my guide to spending one week in Italy, with 12 sample itineraries.

One week in Italy might not seem like much time. But, with some advance planning and ambition, you can definitely have a bucket list adventure.

There’s nowhere more romantic (or popular) than Italy. The word “Italy” conjures visions of crumbling Roman ruins, rolling cypress-studded landscapes, and secret canals.

Italy is rich in history, culture, and food. Italy’s beautiful towns boast some of the world’s best churches , palaces, museums, and historic landmarks .

I’ve been to Italy many times. Italy always blows my socks off (except maybe in the uber crowded high season). I love it and am already making a return trip next month.

There’s so many things to do and see in Italy and so little time, at least for most of us. How to choose between the myriad options?

To help you get started prioritizing and give you some destination inspiration, I’ve picked my top 11 itineraries for spending one perfect week in Italy.

Some of these itineraries include Italy’s most popular cities and sites. Others give you more off the beaten path options and hidden gems in Italy.

You can pick a sample itinerary to match your own interests — whether you want a glamorous city, historical and cultural options, outdoor scenery, or beaches.

You can also combine itineraries for a 2 week (or longer) stay in Italy. And I suggest possible combinations.

Of course, you can always adjust and tweak these itineraries to suit your needs. When you’ve settled on an itinerary (or two), be sure to read my must know tips for visiting Italy .

12 Ways To Spend 1 Week in Italy

I’m a rather obsessed itinerary planner and I can personally vouch for these particular one week in Italy itineraries.

For each 1 week in Italy itinerary, I also give you options for extending your trip, if you want to expand a 7 day itinerary into a 10 day itinerary for Italy or combine these sample open week itineraries.

There are essentially two ways to structure a 1 week in Italy trip.

You can move around 2-3 times for a fast paced trip that checks off Italy bucket list items. Or, you choose a single base or region for a week and take day trips from there.

These sample 7 day Italy itineraries offer both options. I’d be excited to take any of these trips again.

I’ve written more than 100 blog posts about Italy. I’ve linked some of them to the relevant Italy itinerary to help you along.

Here are my picks for the best ways to spend one week in Italy:

• 1 Week Italian Renaissance Tour
• 1 Week in Tuscany
• 1 Week in Italy’s Major Cities
• 1 Week in Rome + Day Trips
• 1 Week in Venice + Day Trips
• 1 Week in the Italian Lake District Itinerary
• 1 Week Dolomites Itinerary
• 1 Week in Rome + Amalfi Coast
• 1 Week in Northern Italy Venice to Milan
• 1 Week in Rome + Umbria
• 1 Week Milan to Rome
• 1 Week in Sicily

1. One Week Italian Renaissance Tour: Florence, Tuscany, and Venice

Tuscany has some of the world’s best cathedrals, art galleries, museums. It’s celebrated for its Medieval and Renaissance art.

Tuscany is even regarded as the birthplace of one of mankind’s greatest adventures, the Italian Renaissance.

Florence is an overwhelmingly beautiful city, the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” With the best Medieval and Renaissance art in Europe, Florence is a veritable art lovers paradise.

Florence has some of Europe’s best museums — the Uffizi Gallery , the Bargello Museum , and the Galleria dell’Accademia . And some of Italy’s most opulent palaces — the Pitti Palace and Palazzo Vecchio .

If you want to see these lovelies, you need to book them in advance. Here’s my guide to what attractions you need to pre-book in Florence .

READ : Florence Art Bucket List

Venice had its own Renaissance, distinct from Renaissance hotspots like Florence. Venice’s artists produced images that were less religious, more libertine, and more creative.

Venetian artists painted female nudes and erotic scenes, without the censure other artists like Michelangelo received.

READ : A Nutshell History of Venice

Siena is one of the best cities to visit in Tuscany for its rustic beauty, tasty food, and luscious chianti. Siena Cathedral is one of Europe’s most beautiful churches. Click here to book a ticket.

The greatest artists of the Renaissance contributed master works to the cathedral, including Donatello, Pinturicchio, Duccio, Ghiberti, Pisano, and Michelangelo .

Pisa and Lucca are also great for Renaissance art and architecture. You’ll want to discover the monuments on the magnificent UNESCO-listed Field of Miracles , which is so much more than just the famous Leaning Tower . Lucca is a town of a 100 churches.

READ : Tips for Visiting Pisa

In Arezzo, you can see Piero della Francesca’s greatest masterpiece . It’s the Legend of the Cross frescos in the Cappella Maggiore of the Church of San Francesco.

Padua is home to one of Italy’s must see wonders, the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua. Wallpapered with exquisite frescos by Giotto, the chapel is one of the world’s greatest art works.

It’s currently a candidate for the UNESCO list of world heritage sites.

Here’s how to spend one week in Italy immersing yourself in the Italian Renaissance:

• Day 1 : Arrive in and explore Florence
• Day 2 : Explore Florence
• Day 3 : Day trip to Siena
• Day 4 : Day trip to Pisa and Lucca or to Arrezo
• Day 5 : Drive to and explore Venice
• Day 6 : Explore Venice
• Day 7 : Day trip to Padua

For this itinerary, you’ll only have two bases: Florence (4 nights) and Venice (3 nights).

If you have more time in Italy, itinerary # 9 has the perfect one week itinerary for taking a road trip from Venice to Milan . If you want a nature break, you could head to the Dolomites with itinerary #7.

Need more information about this one week Italian Renaissance road trip? Check out these Tuscany and Venice travel guides for specific details.

• Best Art in Tuscany
• 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• Best museums in Florence
• Hidden gems in Florence
• Michelangelo Trail in Florence
• Piero della Francesco Trail in Italy
• Andrea del Verrocchio’s Art in Florence
• 1 Day Itinerary for Siena
• Must See Sites in Pisa
• 2 Day Itinerary for Venice
• Guide To Padua’s Scrovegni Chapel

2. One Week in Tuscany Idyll

There’s nowhere more romantic in Italy than the stunning region of Tuscany. Tuscany is like a painting.

With its cypress-lined roads, golden wheat fields, and medieval hilltop towns, Tuscany offers the quintessential Italian village experience, complete with fine wine and delectable food.

I’ve discussed Florence and Siena above.

But this Tuscany itinerary also takes you to some of Italy’s most beautiful small towns — Arezzo, Cortona, San Gimignano, Lucca, and Pisa.

In these quaint towns, you’ll find showstopper public squares, stunning churches, and cobbled lanes.

San Gimignano is the romantic glamor girl of Tuscany. Nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan,” San Gimignano is famous for its “Bella Torres” or “Beautiful Towers.” 

Here’s how to spend one week in Tuscany:

• Day 1 : Arrive and explore Florence
• Day 3 : Day trip to Arrezo or Cortona
• Day 4 : Drive to and explore Siena
• Day 5 : Day trip to San Gimignano
• Day 6 : Drive to Lucca and explore
• Day 7 : Day trip To Pisa from Lucca

For this 1 week in Tuscany itinerary, your overnight bases will be Florence (3 nights), Siena (2 nights), and Lucca (2 nights). If you want more details on this itinerary, check out my comprehensive one week in Tuscany itinerary .

More time in Italy? If you want to extend your Tuscany road trip and move at a more leisurely pace, check out my 10 day itinerary for Tuscany .

It covers all the destinations on this shorter 1 week Tuscany itinerary, and more, with much more detail.

Or, head south to Umbria and follow itinerary #10. If you’re ready for a city break, head to Rome and follow itinerary #4.

Need more information on Tuscany? Check out these other articles:

• Must see sites in Florence
• Best day trips from Florence
• Guide to the Medici Palaces
• Guide to the Uffizi Gallery
• Best things to do in San Gimignano

3. One Week in Italy’s Major Cities | Greatest Hits

Are you a city person? If you want to explore Italy’s greatest hits, this fun one week itinerary takes you to the “big three” — Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Endlessly inspiring and ethereal, Rome is the magical mecca of carbs and ancient architecture. It’s a grand showcase of Western civilization, full of Imperial pomp and circumstance.

Rome has spent centuries accumulating layers of beauty, history, and romance — just waiting for its admirers to arrive.

READ : History of Ancient Rome

Begin with the Imperial tour of Rome, which includes the iconic Colosseum , Palatine Hill , and the Roman Forum . Be sure to book skip the line tickets in advance!

Then, take a stroll through the historic center of Rome . There, you’ll find the stunning Piazza Navona the Pantheon , beautiful churches, and the Trevi Fountain.

Next, move on to visiting the Vatican Museums , the unparalleled world class museums in Rome , and Rome’s opulent palaces .

To see the Vatican you MUST book a skip the line ticket or wait hours in line. You can check out my guide to Vatican tours to see which appeal.

I’ve already discussed Florence above. Your last major city stop, Venice, is the most unique city in the world. I’ve written a one day in Venice itinerary that you can follow.

It’s an almost physical and mystical experience when you see Venice for the first time. The glimmering watery streets are right is front of you.

Venice defies logic; it’s a city that almost shouldn’t exist. Venice is a mind boggling maze of canals, lacy palaces, and artistic treasures.

READ: Must see sites along Venice’s Grand Canal

Here’s how to spend one week in Italy’s major cities:

• Day 1 : Arrive and explore Rome
• Day 2 : Explore Rome
• Day 3 : Drive or high speed train to Florence
• Day 4 : Explore Florence
• Day 5 : Day trip to Siena or to Pisa & Lucca
• Day 6 : Drive or high speed train To Venice
• Day 7 : Explore Venice

More time in Italy?

From Venice you can follow itinerary #9 and road trip from Venice to Milan. Alternatively, you can head to the Italian Lake District (itinerary #6) or the Dolomites (itinerary #7).

Need more information about this one week city-based Italy itinerary?

Check out these city travel guides:

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• Hidden gems in Rome
• Best museums in Rome
• Archaeological sites in Rome
• Guide to the Borghese Gallery
• Masterpieces of the Vatican
• Rome’s secret palace museums
• 2 day itinerary for Venice

4. One Week Rome City Break + Day Trips

One of my favorite vacations in Italy was just spending 8 days in Rome. I didn’t move my base from the beautiful Trastevere neighborhood.

I just explored Rome at slower pace and took plenty of easy day trips. You don’t need a car. You can book a day tour or just hop on the train.

I’ve discussed Rome above. But on this Rome itinerary , you’ll also visit some of beautiful towns near Rome.

Tivoli is a charming small town just a half hour from Rome. It’s home to two amazing UNESCO sites: Hadrian’s Villa (Roman ruins) and Ville d’Este (a Renaissance mansion with incredible gardens and fountains).

You should definitely book a day trip tour to see them.

Pompeii is Italy’s most famous archaeological site, a living museum. In 79 A.D., Mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the city in 60 feet of ash. The city was entombed and preserved for many centuries.

Beginning in 1748, archaeologists began painstakingly excavating the ruins. The ruins are a remarkable evocation of everyday Roman life, which you can see on a guided tour from Rome to get all the history.

Charming Orvieto, the capitol of Umbria, is an easy day trip from Rome. It’s set high above a volcanic outcropping and chock full of medieval buildings.

Nothing much has changed in this rustic fairytale town in 500 years. Orvieto’s piece de resistance is its magnificent cathedral.

Here’s how to spend 1 week in Rome:

• Day 1 : Explore Rome
• Day 3 : Explore Rome and Vatican City
• Day 4 : Day Trip To Tivoli
• Day 5 : Day Trip to Pompeii
• Day 6 : Day Trip to Orvieto
• Day 7 : Explore more of Rome and/or half day trip to Ostia Antica

Want more information about this trip? Here are some of my other articles:

• 3 Day Rome Itinerary
• Hidden Gems in Rome
• Guide to the Vatican Pinacoteca
• Guide to Rome’s Palace Museums
• Historic Landmarks in Italy

5. One Week in Venice + Day Trips

Another one week itinerary where you don’t have to move bases is just to stay in Venice. You can enjoy the city at your leisure and take day trips from there by car, train, or ferry.

You could also base yourself in Verona the entire time and day trip to Venice and other destinations. Verona is less crowded and less expensive than Venice.

Venice is one of the world’s most beautiful and captivating cities, a natural movie set. No other place looks quite like it. Venice is a medieval city built on water that shouldn’t exist in real life. It’s a mind boggling maze of architectural and artistic treasures.

There are so many thing to do and see in Venice. You can take a gondola rid e , ogle the opulent palaces , take in some world class museums, or stroll the stunning floating city .

From Venice, you have so many day trip options. You can tour the Venetian lagoon islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello .

You can day trip to Padua to admire Giotto’s groundbreaking frescos at the Scrovegni Chapel. If you want less crowded canals, head to nearby Treviso. Treviso is an elegant little canal town, only a 30 minute train ride from Venice.

Fair Verona is for romantics and medievalists. It’s a pretty Italian town full of red and peach colored medieval buildings and Roman ruins.

Verona was made famous by Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet . Once you’ve made the obligatory pilgrimmage to Juliet’s Balcony, you’ll also want to tour the doughty Roman Arena in the Piazza Bra.

Ravenna was once the epicenter of the Western World, when the Byzantine Empire made Ravenna its capitol.

The Byzantine rulers blanketed Ravenna’s churches with gorgeous mosaics. This artistic legacy rivals Venice or Istanbul, making Ravenna a UNESCO site worth visiting .

Here’s how to spend one week in Venice:

• Day 1 : Explore Venice
• Day 2 : Explore Venice
• Day 3 : Day trip to Venetian lagoon islands
• Day 4 : Day trip to Padua
• Day 5 : Day trip to Verona
• Day 6 : Day Trip to Ravenna
• Day 7 : Day Trip to Bologna or another day in Venice

More time in Italy? Head to the Dolomites with itinerary #6 or road trip to Milan with itinerary #9.

Need more information about this area of Italy?

Check out these Venice travel guides and resources:

• 1 day itinerary for Venice
• Top Attractions in Ve nice
• History of Venice in a nutshell
• Guide to the Peggy Guggenheim Museum
• Guide to the Galleria Accademia
• Guide to the Scrovegni Chapel
• 7 day itinerary Venice to Milan
• Guide to the mosaics of Ravenna

6. One Week Italian Lake District Itinerary

Northern Italy is home to the seductively beautiful Lake District, set in the shadow of the Alps. Though just an hour north of Milan, this area feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Italy’s second city.

In this romantic region, 19th century villas are covered in vines and set amid stunted palm trees. It’s a bliss-y area made for nature lovers.

You have several lakes to choose from and they all have their charms —Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore.

Lake Como offering a heady mix of scenery, opulent palazzi, and relaxing vistas. Lake Maggiore doesn’t have quite the panache of Lake Como, but still has a faded elegance.

Lake Orta is smaller and less developed, a hidden gem of quietude without the crowds. It’s a favorite escape of the Milanese, who’ve nicknamed it Cinderella.

Here’s a breakdown of how to spend one week in the Italian Lake District:

• Day 1 : Arrive in and explore Milan
• Day 2 : Explore Lake Como, base in Varenna
• Day 3 : Explore Lake Como, ferry to Bellagio
• Day 4 : Explore Lake Maggiore, base in Stresa
• Day 5 : Explore Lake Maggiore
• Day 6 : Explore Lake Orta, stay in Villa Crespi
• Day 7. Explore Lake Orta

From the Lake District, head east to Venice. Here’s my two day itinerary for Venice .

Alternatively, head back to Milan and follow itinerary #11, which takes you on an amazing road trip from Milan to Rome.

Want more information about this itinerary? Check out these Milan travel guides:

• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• Top attractions in Milan
• Leonardo da Vinci trail in Milan
• Guide to the Brera Museum
• How to see Leonardo’s Last Supper Fresco
• Top art to see in Milan

7. One Week Dolomites Itinerary

Italy’s dramatic rocky rooftop is the Dolomites. This region of Italy offers some of the best mountain thrills in Europe.

The Dolomites feature flower speckled meadows, turquoise lakes, jagged gray cliffs, and spectacular driving routes.

Here, the region doesn’t even seem like Italy. It’s more Austrian and German in a felt-hat-with-feathers way. You can tour by car or go on a hiking tour .

The city of Bolzano is the gateway to the Dolomites. There’s yogurt and yodeling for breakfast. The Dolomites are especially beautiful in the fall.

And more hiking than you can imagine. Probably the most stunning hike is Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike.

• Day 1 : Arrive and explore Trento
• Day 2 : Day trip to Rovereto and Lago di Tenno
• Day 3 : Drive to Bressanone, stop at Lago di Carezzo en route
• Day 4 : Day trip to Secede
• Day 5 : Drive to Lago di Braies, overnight in Misurina
• Day 6 : Explore Lake Misurina
• Day 7 : Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike

This Dolomites itinerary has three bases: Trento (2 nights), Bressanone (2 nights), and Misurina (3 nights).

The nearest airport is Venice Treviso and Venice Marco Polo.

If you want to visit Venice before the Dolomites, here’s my two day itinerary for Venice . After leaving Venice, you’ll head to Trento, a very underrated city in Italy. Trento is frescoed and surrounded by mountains.

More time in Italy? Head to the Italian Lake District. Lake Garda is about 3 hours away. See itinerary #6.

8. One Week in Rome (or Naples) and the Amalfi Coast

This 1 week in Italy itinerary begins in Rome. From Rome, it’s over 3 hours to the drool-worthy Amalfi Coast. If you’ve been to Rome and would rather skip the drive or train ride, you can spend you first two days in Naples instead.

Like Rome, Naples is a big city that can be chaotic. But Naples’ historic center is rich and will give you a taste of the quintessentially Neapolitan lifestyle.

Naples’ finest attractions are its treasure chest Archaeological Museum and the Capodimonte Museum .

With its stunning scenery, hill towns, and historic ruins, the Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most scenic rides.

From Sorrento to Salerno, the vistas will leave your mouth gaping and your camera’s memory card full. Villas cling to cliffs and sandy coves beckon below.

Over the centuries, the spectacular scenery has been a siren call for the rich and famous, luring Roman emperor Tiberius, Richard Wagner, Sophia Loren, Gore Vidal, and others to the Amalfi Coast’s special brand of la dolce vita .

Wedged on a ledge over the sea, the serene cliff top town of Sorrento makes a perfect springboard for visiting the Amalfi Coast.

From Sorrento, you can book day trips to Pompeii , Positano , Capri , and even Naples.

There’s a saying that Positano “bites deep,” it’s so dreamy. Positano is the star of the Amalfi Coast. Strolling the town comes complete with sherbet colored cliffside homes, stunning beaches, and tiny cobbled lanes.

Rugged mountainous Capri is one of the world’s most glamorous island. Capri was made famous as the vacation hideaway of Roman Emperors Augustus and Tiberius.

Today, it’s crowded. But even with the crowds, it’s drop dead gorgeous, set on a glittering blue sea and you should definitely book a guided boat tour to see it .

Pompeii is an ancient Roman town, which was stopped in its tracks by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Once buried under ash, the well preserved ruins of Pompeii offer you the best look anywhere at what life in Rome was like 2,000 years ago.

Here’s how to spend one week in Rome and the Amalfi Coast:

• Day 3 : Explore Rome
• Day 4 : Day Trip to Tivoli (Hadian’s Villa & Villa d’Este)
• Day 5 : Train or drive to Sorrento, explore Sorento
• Day 6 : Day Trip to Positano
• Day 7 : Day Trip to Pompeii or Capri

Need more information for this one week Italy itinerary?

Check out these guides:

• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• Guide to Palatine Hill
• Guide to the Roman Forum
• Guide to the Colosseum
• Guide to Hadrian’s Villa
• Guide to Villa d’Este
• Guide to the Amalfi Coast

9. One Week in Northern Italy: Venice to Milan

This one week road trip from Venice to Milan in northern Italy is a popular tourist route.

It’s only a 3 hour drive from Venice to Milan.

But this route is dense with amazing must see medieval villages, ornate palazzos, Roman ruins, and secret hidden gems of the Renaissance. There’s plenty of great destinations to explore along the way.

This northern Italy road trip begins in Venice, the starting point for your road trip.

It assumes you’ve explored the heady attractions of the world’s most romantic floating city, and are embarking to explore more of Italy.

From Venice, you can explore Verona , a town for romantics, and visit Mantua , a town for Renaissance lovers. You’ll also stop in Brescia and Bergamo before landing in Milan.

Here’s how to spend one week on a road trip from Venice to Milan:

• Day 1 : Leave Venice, stop in Padua and Vicenza, overnight in Verona
• Day 2 : Explore Verona, overnight in Verona
• Day 3 : From Verona, day trip to Mantua
• Day 4 : Drive to Brescia, stopping in Sirmione on the way, overnight in Brescia
• Day 5 : Explore Brescia, overnight in Brescia
• Day 6 : Drive to Bergamo, explore Bergamo, overnight in Milan
• Day 7 : Explore Milan

Need more information for this one week Italy itinerary? Check out these guides:

• Guide To the Must See Sites of Mantua
• Guide To Mantua’s Te Palace
• Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
• 1 Day itinerary for Milan
• Best Art in Milan

10. One Week in Rome + Umbria

I’ve covered Rome above and you’ll be there two days on this particular one week Italy itinerary.

Beautiful Umbria is quite similar To Tuscany. It’s just as sublimely picturesque, but less crowded. You can enjoy Italy’s scenic medieval hill towns and countryside.

Charming Orvieto is one of Italy’s most striking hill towns. Less than 90 minutes from Rome, Orvieto sits majestically atop a big chunk of volcanic stone amid cypress-dotted plains.

As I mentioned above, Orvieto’s walking highlights are its colorful-inside-and-out cathedral and pretty cobbled old town.

The stunning hill town of Assisi is a destination for art lovers. Because Assisi was the home and final resting place of St. Francis, it’s also a pilgrimage destination that you’ll want to tour . In fact, the 13th century Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is one of Italy’s best known churches.

The tiny towns of Umbria — Spello, Spoleto, Perugia, and Gubbio — are utterly charming. This is where you’ll really get a taste of real Umbrian culture.

Here’s how to spend one week exploring Rome and Umbria:

• Day 3 : Drive to Orvieto, stop en route in Civita di Bagnoregio
• Day 4 : Explore Orvieto
• Day 5 : Drive to Assisi and explore, overnight in Assisi
• Day 6 : Day trip to Spello and Spoleto
• Day 7 : Day trip to Perugia and/or Gubbio

In this one week Italy route, you’ll start in Rome. For a base, you’ll be in Rome (2 nights) Orvieto (2 nights), and Assisi (3 nights). For more details, check out my comprehensive one week in Umbria itinerary .

More time? Head north to Tuscany with itinerary #2.

11. One Week Milan to Rome Itinerary

The journey from Milan to Rome is a popular tourist route. It’s only a 6 hour drive from Milan to Rome.

But this well-traveled road trip route is dense with amazing must see medieval villages, ornate palazzos, Roman ruins, and sublime treasures of the Renaissance.

You start with Italy’s exciting northern capital of Milan and end in Rome, Italy’s ancient southern capital of Rome. Along the way, you’ll visit some of Italy’s most beautiful towns in northern Italy. You’ll experience a near overdose of art, from Ancient Rome to treasures of the Renaissance in Florence.

With this itinerary, you’ll get to visit Bologna. Nicknamed La Grassa , or the Big Fat, for its delicious food, Bologna just oozes medieval charm. And you should definitely take a food tour in Bologna .

Bologna is a bit of a hidden gem in Italy. But it shouldn’t be. Bologna is a historic city filled with striking architecture, beautiful piazzas, a swathe of palaces and towers, and gourmet restaurants. Eat, eat, and eat more!

Situated atop three hills, Siena is Italy’s ultimate rustic hill town.

Its thriving historic center , with movie set lanes cascading every which way, offers Italy’s best medieval city experience.

Here’s how you can spend one week on a road trip from Milan to Rome .

• Day 1 : Explore Milan
• Day 2 : Pick up car drive to Bologna and explore
• Day 3 : Drive to Florence and explore
• Day 4 : Explore Florence and optional half day trip to Pisa
• Day 5 : Stop in Siena en route Rome
• Day 6 : Explore Rome
• Day 7 : Explore Rome

In this busy 7 day Milan to Rome travel itinerary, you’ll have three bases: Milan (1 night), Bologna (1 night), Florence (2 nights), and Rome (3 nights).

More time in Italy? Spend more time in Bologna, one of Italy’s most underrated cities.

Or, head to the Amalfi Coast with itinerary #8.

Need more information for this Milan to Rome road trip? Check out these travel guides and resources:

• 1 day in Siena itinerary

12. One Week In Sicily Itinerary

Want to head to the beautiful island of Sicily? I was just there for 2 weeks and it’s divine.

Sicily is rich in history, culture, and food. It’s one of Italy’s most exotic regions, pure passion set amid wild beauty. You can enjoy diverse landscapes — rocky volcanic coastlines, pristine beaches, and clifftop villages.

Sicily will also dazzle you with ancient ruins, UNESCO sites, artistic treasures, Baroque architecture, and Italy’s most exotic street markets. 

One week in Sicily isn’t enough time to experience the island fully. Given the distances to be traveled, imperfect roads, and plethora of attractions, you should probably stick to one part of the island.

I’ve written 5 sample itineraries for spending 1 week in Sicily by geography or theme:

• Eastern Sicily Itinerary
• Western Sicily Itinerary
• Northern Sicily Itinerary
• Sampler Sicily Itinerary
• Archaeological Sicily Itinerary

These one week Italy itineraries take you to Sicily’s premiere destinations — the exciting capital of Palermo, the mosaicked churches of Monreale and Cefalu, the clifftop town of Taormina, the sensation old world town of Syracuse, and the late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto.

For details and destination inspiration, check out my 1 week in Sicily itineraries . Or, check out some of my detailed travel guides covering the must visit sites and towns in Sicily:

• 2 days in Palermo itinerary
• 2 days in Syracuse itinerary
• 2 days in Trapani itinerary
• 1 day in Catania itinerary
• 1 day in Taormina itinerary
• Guide to the Valley of the Temples
• Guide to Villa Romana del Casale
• Guide to Monreale Cathedral
• Guide to the Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week Italy itineraries. If so, pin it for later.

12 thoughts on “7 Days in Italy: 12 Amazing One Week Itineraries for Italy”

I loved the itineraries…now I’m even more overwhelmed! My daughter and I want to spend 30 days in Italy (including Sicily). Any info on where to stay (location/safety)?

I feel like Italy is pretty safe, if you take the usual precautions of staying in good neighborhoods and not being out late at night. 30 days in Italy? That’s amazing. Sicily is definitely on my bucket list.

Thank you so much these are great ideas for first time travellers!

We fly into rome and leave rome after a week what would you suggest for one week, would love to see venace Florence or Milan!

I really wanted to see the different towns through Italy without having it to rushed happy to use the trains but accomodation wise I would have no idea where to book each night!

Thank you so much these ar very helpful!!

You’re welcome! You could actually use Rome as your home base for the entire week and day trip to other places either by high speed train or guided tour. Here’s my guide to the best day trips from Rome: https://www.thegeographicalcure.com/post/day-trips-from-rome . Or you could split your time between Rome and Florence. Florence is much closer than Milan or Venice. I have lots of articles on all those cities.

Great info thank you! Looking for a Rome – Venice – Amalfi itinerary…. Any suggestions or is it possible in a week? Thanks CD

You can do it, but you’ll be rushed. I’d probably start in Venice and only spend one day there if you only have 7 days in Italy. I do have a 1 day and 2 day itinerary for Venice and a 3 days in Rome itinerary.

ITALY It’s Beautiful city in Europe

Ha! Yes it is.

By far these iterinaries were great. Were heading to Europe for 3 weeks. Were going back to Rome for 2 or 3 days then explore northern part of Italy. We would like to spend 6 days or so then would like to see Switzerland then France. Any suggestions on these places. We are traveling with our 13 year old daughter. Thank you in advance Dennis

Thank you Dennis! I hope you have a fantastic time in Europe. If you use the search function on my blog page, you will find loads of itineraries for Rome and must see sites, museums, and ruins. I also have many articles on France. I haven’t been to Switzerland in a couple decades, so nothing on that country unfortunately.

Hi We are flying into Naples in September and headed to the Amalfi Coast. We have 7 nights and need to be in Venice on the 8th day. I know this will be a rushed tripped. I would love to include Bologna.Any suggestions on an itinerary?

Here are my sample itineraries for spending 5 days on the Amalfi Coast. https://www.thegeographicalcure.com/post/5-days-in-the-amalfi-coast-itineraries . You could take the high speed train from Naples to Bologna, spend a day there, and then head to Venice.

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Last Updated on April 14, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Reliable, good value and friendly..

“ We used Daytrip 4 times during our stay in Mexico and each time we had a hassle free journey. The cars were always well air conditioned and the drivers polite and helpful. The communication every step of the way was clear and precise. They are good value too. We will use Daytrip next time we are abroad. ”

“ Superb, 2 day trips in southern Spain. Prompt, excellent drivers. On time and exactly as planned. Wonderful trips to Ronda and Almeria, with stops. Will recommend and use again. ”

Dubrovnik to Split with a stop in Bosnia

“ It was great!! Driving through the country really was a wonderful way to see everything. Nikica was kind, efficient, patient, and encouraged us to enjoy the trip and not rush. We have zero complaints and would absolutely book again. ”

We love Daytrip

“ Luis did an excellent job driving us to our destination. We are so happy to have discovered daytrip. We are comfortable knowing we will be picked up on time with a comfortable door to door ride. Only way to go. ”

Wonderful Transfer

“ We had a great time on our Porto to Lisbon transfer. Alex was a great driver and guide. He advised us on timings, things to do in the places we stopped, and was very personable. All while making sure we made it to the airport in time for our flight. We would definitely recommend this service and would be happy to take it again. ”

“ Excellent experience. Timely, good communication. Drivers were professional and helpful. Good English. Booked 2 separate trips in Switzerland and all went well. ”

Great Service!

“ Wonderful service - more flexibility than other options and we were able to see a couple new cities! Our driver, MIhaly, was prompt and friendly. The car was super comfortable and Mihaly provided water as well. Highly recommend!! ”

Reliable Top notch service with Sorina!

“ My trip from Paris to Bayeux, via Versailles, with Sorina was amazing. She was constantly in touch with us so finding her was never an issue. She was lovely and we had a wonderful experience I have since recommended Daytrip (and especially Sorina) to a few friends of mine who will be traveling in the coming weeks. Again, thank you for being a dependable company and providing us with an amazing driver like Sorina. ”

Great experience

“ My husband & I enjoy self-drive holidays as a couple, but as we are getting on in years, we felt that the stress of getting a car rental in cities we were unfamiliar with, became a hassle. Then we discovered Daytrip and we hv never looked back since. Just recently, we visited Portugal and all our land transportation was taken care of by Daytrip. From Lisbon to Porto to Lamego and back to Porto to catch our flight home, Daytrip provided such efficient & excellent services - their drivers were always on time, so polite & speaks English, knows the area so well that they were also excellent tour guides. The vehicles very clean and almost new. We were constantly updated with details of our upcoming trips, given driver's particulars, vehicle no & type, etc.....what more can we ask for! As tourists in a foreign country...we appreciated this and felt so safe! I have been recommending Daytrip to all my friends back home. ”

Ride review

“ Marcos O. was fantastic! Very professional and knowledgeable! He helped with our luggage and ensured that we arrived safely at our destination. Highly recommend!! ”

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Along with rave reviews from everyday travelers, Daytrip’s singular service has caught the attention of major press outlets.

I was able to have a highly personalised experience, all the help and knowledge of an informative and friendly guide who knew the city like the back of her hand.

With Daytrip, I had the chance to see some cool spots I might have otherwise missed.

As I learned more about their brand, I realized how their overall business concept is pure genius.

In my honest opinion, this is a much better way to get to your next destination as opposed to taking the bus, train or plane.

The driver picked us up from our hotel in Milan and dropped us off at our doorstep in France. Talk about service!

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Italy travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

I taly has it all. The big boot concentrates some of Europe ’s most beautiful landscapes, islands, beaches and lakes , mountains and rolling vine-covered hills, and adorns them all with more art and architecture than anywhere on the planet.

You can go back every year and never see it all. Because Italy has only been as a single country since 1871, each regions has developed its own distinct character, cuisine and wine. Whether you love art or archaeology, fashion or fast cars, or food, wine and la dolce vita , you’ll love Italy.

Best time to go

Italy is a year-round destination. Summers are hot and crowded (the Italians themselves go on holiday in August ) but that’s also the time for beaches, festivals and sitting out under the stars. Spring is a delightful time to visit, with numerous events, especially around Easter, while in autumn the colours are magnificent in the mountains and vineyards as the wine harvest takes place. Winter is stellar for skiing and snowsports, opera lovers, and visiting the cities and museums minus the crowds.

Top regions and cities

Italy’s capital, Rome , is one of the world’s great cities, the magnificent stage for a lion’s share of European history, a palimpsest where ancient, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque landmarks stand shoulder to shoulder. It is the only city that surrounds a sovereign country, Vatican City, yet alongside the grandeur of the Pantheon and St Peter’s, the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, the Castel Sant’Angelo and Spanish Steps and 900 churches, there is a sense of fun. Hit the lively bars, lick gelato under the parasol pines, and hire a Vespa to pretend you’re in Roman Holiday .

Read more on Italy travel :

• Lerici: Italy’s under-the-radar alternative to the Cinque Terre
• The best places to cruise in Italy
• Milan city guide: Top things to do and where to stay in Italy’s northern powerhouse

Synonymous with landscapes swathed in vines, olives and cypresses that look as if they were lifted straight from a Renaissance fresco, Tuscany is a rare region that achieved a kind of perfection by the 16th century – then had the sense to not change. Tuscany’s precocious capital is Florence , where wealthy patrons, notably the Medici, helped herald in the Renaissance and filled the city with works that changed the history of art and architecture. The smaller art cities – Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Arezzo – and hill towns are jewels, and beaches line the coast when you need a break from all that art and culture.

The dream city floating on water is almost too beautiful for its own good – in fact, so many want to visit that the city has started charging day-trippers admission. But La Serenissima deserves so much more than a few rushed hours. The Grand Canal, the Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s and its piazza, the Rialto bridge – all the iconic sights take on an extra magic when illuminated at night (and the day trippers have gone). Venice is exceptionally atmospheric in winter, when the mists rise, and you can have its churches and palazzi filled with masterpieces by Titian, Bellini, Tintoretto and Veronese almost to yourself.

• Best hotels in Venice

The Bay of Naples

Passionate, noisy, chaotic, anarchic, fabulous Naples is the queen of the south, with its unforgettable views across the water to the still smouldering Mount Vesuvius. The volcano’s most famous victim, Pompeii, is only a short train ride away, and more fascinating than ever thanks to the recent excavations. The enormous royal Palace of Caserta with its endless gardens is just inland, while the three irresistible islands in the bay – ritzy Capri, beach-rimmed Ischia and tiny Procida – are a foretaste of the sublime, vertigo-inducing Amalfi Coast that begins just to the south.

The Mediterranean’s biggest island is a mini continent, with its own culture, dialect, cuisine and stunning relics of its ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman and Neapolitan past. Palermo concentrates much of the art, but then there’s Agrigento with its Greek temples, romantic Taormina with its Greek theatre overlooking Mount Etna, superb Roman mosaics at Piazza Armerina, Byantine Norman ones at Monreale, and the elegant Baroque towns of Noto, Modica and Ragusa. The small islands of Sicily’s coasts are equally fascinating, notably the volcanic Aeolian islands, where Stromboli erupts every few minutes.

Best under-the radar destinations

In between central and southern Italy, encompassing the highest Apennines, Abruzzo is the ‘Green Region of Europe’. More than half of its territory is protected in national parks and nature reserves, home to brown bears, wolves, golden eagles, porcupines and chamois. It’s an ideal destination for an active holiday, with its walking and cycle paths, mountain lakes, beaches, ski slopes, striking hill villages and archaeological sites.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

This little triple-barrelled region borders Austria and Slovenia, and is only a 40-minute drive from Croatia . Its capital, Trieste, was once the chief port of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, lending it a unique Mittel European atmosphere and cuisine. There’s arty Udine, long part of the Venetian Republic, and Aquileia – one of the best preserved Roman cities – plus sandy beaches and rolling hills that produce some of Italy’s finest white wines. In the north tower the fanatical Friulian Dolomites and Julian Alps and in between, you’ll find the Tagliamento, one of the last wild rivers in Europe.

Valle d’Aosta

This emerald valley in Italy’s far northwest is framed by Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn and majestic Gran Paradiso National Park. Smallest and least populated of Italy’s regions, where both Italian and French are official languages, it’s dotted with castles, chalets and happy cows with huge bells who produced the valley’s famous Fontina cheese. The pretty capital, Aosta, is full of Roman-medieval charm.

The mountainous instep of the Italian boot was long unknown to most tourists, although it’s just beginning to be discovered. There are small beach resorts along the Ionian and Tyrrhenian, some beautiful villages, lovely Aglianico del Vulture wine, and the fascinating city of Matera, where people lived in caves in a river canyon into the 20th century; today it’s a Unesco World Heritage Site and stand-in for ancient Jerusalem in a number of recent films.

Best things to do

Eat in bologna.

The capital of Emilia Romagna (think prosciutto, Parmesan, tortellini, mortadella, etc), Bologna is foodie heaven. Its Quadrilateral market is a gastronomic epiphany, and will whet your appetite for a dish of tagliatelle alla Bolognese – the heavenly origin of spag bol.

Garden hop on the Italian Lakes

Few places on earth can match the gorgeous scenery, villas and gardens that grow in the singular microclimates of Italy’s enormous alpine lakes – Maggiore, Como and Garda . Regular ferries and boat services will get you there – or hire your own boat.

Take in an opera

Along with Italy’s cathedrals of trilling arias – Milan ’s La Scala, Venice’s La Fenice or Naples’s San Carlo – there are wonderful summer festivals in Verona’s Roman Arena, Macerata’s Sferisterio in the Marche, Rome’s Baths of Caracalla, and others dedicated to composers, like Puccini in Torre del Lago (Tuscany), Verdi (Parma), and Rossini (Pescara).

• Best hotels in Milan

Race a Ferrari

Fancy yourself a racing driver? Try your hand on a simulator at the Enzo Ferrari museum in Modena, the capital of Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’. For more Ferrari action, there are factory tours in nearby Maranello, plus the chance to visit the homes of Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani and Ducati with their museums and factory tours.

Getting around

Italy has a superb rail network, and the high-speed service between the major cities makes taking the train cheaper, more convenient and more comfortable than flying. Frecciarossa (red arrows) trains go up to 300km/h (186 mph) between Turin, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Naples and Salerno, and between Turin, Milan, Verona and Venice. Coaches to towns and villages not on the rail lines are also excellent and usually depart from the nearest train station. In the cities, public transport (metros, trams, buses and, in Venice, boat-buses called vaporetti) are also easy to use.

Money-saving tip

If you aren’t bring the kids, you’ll save hundreds of pounds by avoiding travel during the school holidays, when flight and hotel prices soar. Some major attractions, such as the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, also charge less if you go between November to February.

What time zone is it in?

What’s the weather like.

It can get uncomfortably hot in July and August , especially in the south and Po Valley. Spring and autumn are mild (October and November are the rainiest months); winters require coats, even in Sicily.

What currency do I need?

What language is spoken.

Italian, but English is widely understood.

Read more: The best boutique hotels in Rome – where to stay in style for all budget

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7 of the best day trips from Florence

Apr 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Take a day trip from Florence into the wider region of Tuscany and beyond © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Branching out from the red cupola of the Duomo , the stone-built alleys of Florence ’s historic core connect some of the world’s most precious examples of Renaissance art and architecture.

It’s easy to see why millions visit the UNESCO-inscribed capital of Tuscany every year. This walkable city of fewer than 400,000 people has been a European center of culture since the Middle Ages and much of its heritage has survived intact to this day. Florence’s global fame, however, has long overshadowed the many sights in its surroundings, keeping tourists concentrated in and around a limited number of well-known destinations.

Heavily publicized attractions such as the Uffizi museum , Michelangelo’s David inside the Galleria dell’Accademia and the 14th-century Ponte Vecchio tend to grab all the attention. But you shouldn't spend all your time in Tuscany standing in line for fear of missing out. Many surprising and often neglected towns await beyond Florence’s borders.

Here is our pick of the best day trips from Florence, nearly all of which is reachable on public transport.

Need more inspiration for where to go in Italy? Here's our guide to the country's top experiences

1. Visit the treasured cathedral of Lucca

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes by train

Enclosed within 12m-high (39ft) defensive walls, historic Lucca is one of Tuscany’s most charming medieval centers. Lucca grew out of its privileged position on the Via Francigena pilgrim route and is known as the city of 100 churches. The greatest of them all is the Romanesque Cattedrale di San Martino , where you’ll find Italy’s oldest wood carving, the Volto Santo crucifix. The cathedral is located a short distance from the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the elliptical square built on a former Roman amphitheater and lined with restaurant terraces and aperitivo spots.

Lucca isn’t just historic sights though. From spring and throughout the summer many festivals take place within the city’s grass-covered walls, peaking with the Lucca Summer Festival that fills the cobbled alleys with the music of international artists every July.

How to get to Lucca from Florence:  Hourly trains depart from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, taking you right by the gate of Porta San Pietro that leads into the inner city.

2. Cycle around Lago Trasimeno

Travel time: 1 hour 35 minutes by train

Italy’s fourth-largest lake sits just outside Tuscany’s borders, in the province of Perugia , and is surrounded by green hills and sleepy towns. From Castiglione del Lago, the main settlement in the Trasimeno area , you can rent a bike (or e-bike) at Cicli Valentini and join the 60km (37-mile) bike path that loops around the lake and through quaint hamlets, olive groves and Umbrian farmhouses.

Between April and September, you can cut the trip short by taking the ferry that runs from Passignano back to Castiglione del Lago via Isola Maggiore, one of the lake’s three islands, stopping to admire its 19th-century castle, built by the Guglielmi, Marquis of Vulci and Civitavecchia.

How to get to Lago Trasimeno from Florence:  A regional train travels from Florence to Castiglione del Lago in approximately 1½ hours. From there, return to Florence or continue to Rome.

3. Stroll through Pistoia’s Romanesque buildings

Travel time: 35 minutes by train

This attractive historic town is off most international tourists’ routes and continues to maintain a local feel. Besides its long-standing markets – one held daily in Piazza della Sala, the other on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Piazza del Duomo – Pistoia ’s main attraction is its impressive collection of marble-clad Romanesque buildings, from the striped 13th-century Chiesa di San Giovanni Fuorcivitas to the stately Cattedrale di San Zeno , the city’s main church.

Pistoia has been known as a center of musical culture since the 15th century and keeps the tradition alive by hosting Tuscany’s most important blues festival, the Pistoia Blues , every July.

How to get to Pistoia from Florence:  A quick 35-minute train ride separates Florence from Pistoia. The city center is easily reached on foot from the station.

4. Taste the flavors of Emilia-Romagna

Travel time: 40 minutes by train

Travel beyond Tuscany’s northern border and you’ll find a land of tortellini , cappellacci , lambrusco , parmigiano and many more traditional foods of Emilia-Romagna waiting to be tasted. The region stretches from the Adriatic Coast all the way to Liguria and has been historically divided – locals will make sure you know that Emilia and Romagna are not the same thing at every opportunity, even though they share the same regional border. Despite divisions – historical, linguistic and culinary – you can’t really go wrong when eating your way through the region. Emilia-Romagna’s capital, Bologna , is a vibrant city with a large student population and endless opportunities to try the region’s many culinary highlights.

How to get to Bologna from Florence:  High-speed trains will whizz you from Florence to Bologna in just 40 minutes.

5. Hunt for antiques in Arezzo’s Fiera Antiquaria

Travel time: 40 minutes or 1 hour 30 minutes by train

It’s always a good time to visit the art city of Arezzo – home to an Etruscan settlement in its early days and the birthplace of one of Tuscany's most famous Renaissance architects, Giorgio Vasari – but go on the first Sunday of the month or the Saturday before that, and you can experience the Fiera Antiquaria , Italy’s largest antique market. More than 500 vendors, selling everything from vintage furniture to original art, unfold their wares on the sloping cobbles of Piazza Grande, against the beautiful backdrop of Palazzo delle Logge , designed by Vasari himself for the Medici family.

How to get to Arezzo from Florence:  High-speed trains run from Florence to Arezzo in just 30 minutes, while slower (and cheaper) regional trains take under 1½ hours.

6. Step into the ruins of San Galgano, and return via Montalcino

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes by car

Rising from the cypress-dotted countryside of central Tuscany, the Abbazia di San Galgano is one of the region’s most striking pieces of religious architecture, standing roofless a short drive from Siena and a couple of hours from Florence through twisting secondary roads. The majestic structure was built by Cistercian monks over the course of the 13th century and abandoned two centuries later. In 1786 lightning struck San Galgano’s bell tower, which collapsed on the roof, destroying it. The stone cathedral has stood in this hilly corner of the region ever since, offering unmatched photo opportunities to modern-day visitors.

How to get to San Galgano from Florence:  Given the abbey’s isolated location you will need to drive to get there. Extend the trip to nearby Montalcino for a tasting session of the famed Brunello, either in the enoteca found inside the town’s fortress or one of the many wineries nearby.

7. Discover Siena’s artistic heritage

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes by bus

A single day might not be enough to see all that Florence’s historic rival has to offer, but a few hours in Siena will get you a glimpse of the riches acquired by the medieval city-state in its heyday. Starting from the semicircular Piazza del Campo – the square where the yearly Palio horse race is held – enter the Palazzo Pubblico to visit the Museo Civico and see works by some of the greatest Sienese artists of the Middle Ages.

Among them are the 14th-century frescoes Allegory of Good Government and Allegory of Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, meant to inspire the government working in the municipal palace to make good decisions or face the decline of society. Be sure to step into the nearby Duomo as well to admire the spectacular floor mosaic, made of 56 panels produced between the 14th and 19th centuries by up to 40 different artists.

How to get to Siena from Florence:  Buses run between Florence and Siena in a little over an hour, while trains are slightly slower, taking 1½ hours. Be aware that not all trains are direct and you may have to switch in Empoli.

If you have more time

Florence is well connected to most major Italian cities through high-speed rail, and in just a few hours you can be in Rome , Milan or even Naples . Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time to get the best prices.

If you have a car and are looking to spend some time outdoors, the Parco Nazionale Foreste Casentinesi and Parco Regionale delle Alpi Apuane offer many excellent hiking opportunities. In autumn, keep an eye out for food and wine festivals, such as the truffle fair of San Miniato, the Expo del Chianti Classico in Greve in Chianti, or the chestnut festival in Marradi.

This article was first published Jun 12, 2012 and updated Apr 8, 2024.

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Pope Francis, who says he regularly prays "Lord, give me a sense of humour", will welcome comedians from around the world to a cultural event in Italy to "celebrate the beauty of human diversity," the Vatican said on Saturday.

Veterans gather for their last big D-Day anniversary under the cloud of a new war in Europe

CAEN, France — For almost 80 years, the United States and Europe told themselves that a lasting postwar peace had been won here, in the bloody shallows and sands along 6 miles of Normandy beach.

On Thursday — the 80th anniversary of D-Day , perhaps the last major milestone for many of the invasion’s dwindling heroes — that peace in Europe finds itself shattered .

Replacing it are fears of another world war that until recently seemed outlandish, uncertainty about Washington’s European allyship that the Normandy landings cemented, and questions about the future of the Western alliance itself.

For many, the ideals that D-Day helped win are at risk of fading along with its survivors.

“I believe that freedom and democracy are definitely under threat,” D-Day veteran Harold Terens, 100, told NBC News on Monday.

He spent that day working as a radio operator mechanic based in Yorkshire, northern England, communicating with 60 P-47 Thunderbolt fighter planes flying over France — only 30 of which returned. Twelve days later he traveled to Normandy in person to transport freshly freed American prisoners of war back to England, and pick up newly captured Germans.

“It was one of the most disgusting things I’ve seen in my life,” said Terens, who lives in Lake Worth, Florida. “Bodies without arms and legs, bodies without heads — war is hell,” he added, referencing the quote first attributed to Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, who fought on the side of the Union during the Civil War.

More than 150,000 Allied troops landed in Nazi-occupied France on June 6, 1944, including 73,000 Americans, 60,000 British and 15,000 Canadians. It was the largest amphibious invasion in history, a meticulously planned assault that altered the course of World War II — and the 20th century.

Around 4,500 Allies died, including some 2,500 Americans, in their historic bid to loosen Nazi Germany’s grip over mainland Europe. 

And so for a few weeks every year, Normandy is transformed into a festival of remembrance, with cities, villages and cemeteries festooned with flags — including many American flags flown by French locals — while playing host to concerts, parades and ceremonies.

It’s not clear how many veterans are still alive. But some 150 Americans who took part in the monthslong Battle of Normandy, including two dozen D-Day veterans, are expected to make the trip to France this year, according to the American Battle Monuments Commission, the government agency overseeing cemeteries and monuments abroad.

The centerpiece will be a ceremony attended by President Joe Biden, his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain’s Prince William and other world leaders. Biden will give a speech about defending freedom and democracy.

“D-Day is a critical moment for President Biden to speak to what our collective security has done to deliver mostly a peaceful Europe since the second world war,” said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a friend of Biden and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “This is a chance to demonstrate what I think President Biden has been so good at. It’s not America alone. It’s not America first, but America as a critical leader in the world and as the indispensable nation.”

Still, the stars are the veterans.

NBC News is spending part of the week traveling with a busload of 50 American vets who have been brought over by the Best Defense Foundation charity, based in California.

They are set to include Richard “Dick” Ramsey, aged 100, a coxswain aboard the USS Nevada as it fired shells into the D-Day battlefield and narrowly missed getting hit in return. Also expected on the bus is Richard Rung, 100, who ferried troops to Omaha Beach while hosing his fellow soldiers’ blood from the small landing craft.

The youngest D-Day veterans are in their 90s; for many this will be the last major milestone they see as this event begins to pass out of living memory.

For the French, the legacy of D-Day is more complex. There is the decadeslong veneration of their Allied liberators, but also lament for the 20,000 Normandy locals killed in the assault, with cities such as Caen razed to rubble.

Macron says now is the right time to acknowledge these memories. On Wednesday, the French  president is expected to emphasize this point at a ceremony in Saint-Lô, a city whose destruction in the battle was so complete that in 1946 Irish novelist Samuel Beckett named it “the Capital of Ruins,” a moniker that has become widely used since.

With questions over Washington’s long-term commitment to Europe, Macron has attempted to cast himself as a de facto leader on European security, calling for more defense spending and refusing to rule out deploying French troops to Ukraine — much to Moscow’s fury.

It’s perhaps no surprise, then, that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not invited this year.

This presents an awkward juxtaposition for those involved. Many feel it would be untenable to include a Russian delegation while its soldiers wage unprovoked war on Ukraine, an attritional grind of tanks, troops and artillery whose scale evokes WWII itself.

At the same time, it is impossible to tell the story of Nazi defeat without the Soviet Union.

After Adolf Hitler reneged on a nonaggression pact and invaded the Soviet Union, the Red Army spent millions of lives fighting back, repelling the Nazi advance in what was a pyrrhic Soviet victory on the Eastern Front.

“It’s a very changed time,” said John M. Koenig, a veteran American career diplomat who served as ambassador to Cyprus and was posted in Belgium and Italy before retiring in 2015 . “The perception of Russia, and the way ahead, is far darker than it was back when we used to invite Vladimir Putin to the celebrations.”

“It’s a different Europe than it was,” he added. It is not “one of compromise, cooperation and common interests that we had hoped even, I would say, up until at least 10 years ago.”

Many in Europe fear that if Moscow’s aggression goes unpunished, other countries, such as the Baltic states and perhaps even Poland, could come into the Kremlin’s crosshairs.

Ukraine has been armed to the teeth by the West, receiving $50 billion of missiles, tanks and air defense systems from Washington. But many observers are nonetheless questioning the future of the Western unity.

Looming large is the American presidential election between Biden and Donald Trump, the former president and presumptive Republican nominee. Trump has previously suggested he would withdraw from NATO, and many Ukraine allies fear he could end support for its defense against Russia.

Compounding this, European Parliament elections this month look certain to herald victories for far-right and nationalist parties, some of which share Trump’s skepticism on the importance of helping Ukraine resist Russia’s invasion.

John Kelly, a retired four-star general and Trump’s longest-serving White House chief of staff, said in an interview: “People make the argument that American forces should come home. We made that mistake once after World War I.”

“Yes, our allies and partners need to do more for themselves and live up to their financial commitments,” added Kelly, who had a falling out with Trump. "But we tested isolationism once before, and it didn’t work. The rules-based world order works and if it’s going to work America must lead it.”

Also testing Washington’s relationship with its historic partners is the Israel-Hamas war. 

Israel faces accusations of genocide and possible arrest warrants in international court, leaving the country and its chief ally, the U.S., increasingly isolated on the global stage. They have both rejected the accusations.

Israel’s assault on the Gaza Strip has killed more than 36,000 people, according to local officials, and the Palestinian enclave needs $40 billion in postwar reconstruction — the largest since 1945 — the United Nations estimates. Meanwhile, eight decades since the Nazi murder of 6 million Jews, the deadly Oct. 7 attack and its aftermath have stirred fears of rising antisemitism in the U.S. and Europe.

And yet, amid the horror both historical and contemporary, there are shards of light here, among the hedgerows and headstones of mild-but-overcast northern France.

Terens, the D-Day radio operator, has traveled back here to get married, at the age of 100, to his 96-year-old fiancee Jeanne Swerlin.

“Love is not reserved for the young,” he said. “We need a little action ourselves.”

The pair met in 2021, and 40 family members have traveled over from the U.S. for their ceremony and parade June 8. Most poignant will be those not able to attend in person.

“I’m spiritual, and I came here to invite all those soldiers buried on Omaha Beach, 9,836 of them, to my wedding,” he said. “I’d like them to attend in spirit. And I want them to know that they’re not forgotten.”

Alexander Smith is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital based in London.

Peter Nicholas is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.