quick trip to italy

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Italy weekend breaks: 10 of the best places for short breaks

Long weekends away don't get better than these

As a country that offers ancient cities, like Venice and Florence , the turquoise waters of Sardinia and rolling hills of Tuscany , there's something for everyone looking for a short break to Italy.

To show you why you don't need a whole week to take in Italy, we've picked the best destinations for a long weekend.

We've picked the best destinations for Italy weekend breaks to show you why you don't need a whole week or more to take in the beautiful country.

Unique is a word that you hear a lot when reading about holiday destinations – but it’s fair to say that Italy’s iconic floating city deserves the title. Thanks to its wealthy past as an independent republic, the city is literally packed with architectural and artistic wonders, from the magnificence of the famous Rialto to stunning frescos tucked away in tiny backwater churches.

The flight time from London to Venice is a little over two hours, making it an easy journey for a few nights. There are many contenders for the best hotel in Venice , but one of our favourites is the famous Hotel Danieli . Not only is it beautifully luxurious and historical, but it also featured in the James Bond movie Moonraker and The Tourist starring Angelina Jolie.

If it’s sun, sea and sand you’re after, then look no further than Sicily. The island off the tip of Italy’s boot is home to Roman and Greek monuments, rolling fields and irresistibly charming fishing villages.

The Sicilian diet is classically Mediterranean, with a big emphasis on fresh seafood drizzled with the finest olive oil and locally grown herbs – heaven on a plate alongside a glass of cold wine. One of our favourite spots on the island is Taormina, where you can buy delicious cannoli, wander the old streets, and get the cable car up the mountainside to visit the Teatro Greco amphitheatre. Fly into Catania, then it’s just an hour’s drive north. Another hotspot is, of course, the capital of Sicily, Palermo. And those looking to spend a memorable weekend here should look to book Villa Igiea, a grand Belle Époque residence masterfully restored by the Rocco Forte hotel group.

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South Tyrol

Unique among Italian destinations thanks to its Austrian heritage, South Tyrol is full of dazzling scenery, lush vineyards and pretty mountain villages. It's also just a hop away, with just a two-hour flight duration from London to Innsbruck. While cities like Bolzano have a more obviously northern Italian feel, you’ll find plenty of Austrian influence in the region’s cuisine.

Expect menus that feature pizzas alongside schnitzel and wheat beers. Great for a long weekend of hikes and stunning views, or a chic city break, South Tyrol combines everything that’s great about both Italy and Austria. For a lovely, luxurious stay in the region, look no further than Rosa Alpina in the quaint village of San Cassiano.

Tuscany’s rural beauty is irresistible and even a short stay in the countryside here will have you forgetting the stresses of everyday life. Its cities are wonderful too, with so much history and culture around every corner. Florence , the capital, is famous for its magnificent churches and cathedrals, but small enough to explore on foot on a romantic weekend, popping in and out of gorgeously stylish boutiques that line the maze of streets.

When it’s time for a bite to eat, plump for something traditional in a trattoria, or visit an outpost of one of many contemporary Tuscan chefs who are reinventing the classics. For all-out luxury during a stay in Florence, head for the Four Seasons outpost in the city, which is majestically set in a Renaissance palazzo amid 11 acres of grounds.

This dreamy medieval city is the perfect romantic getaway. Though it’s famous for the often-imitated and endlessly adapted pasta dish that takes its name, Bologna is far more than just a foodie haven (although you’ll definitely eat well there!).

Visit for charming alleyway bars, lively piazzas and ramshackle Renaissance beauty. In short, it’s a quintessential Italian escape. There's also a wealth of enchanting countryside to explore in the wider Emilia-Romagna region, characterised by gently rolling hills carpeted with vineyards, olive groves, and orchards.

To make the most of town and country, check in to the inimitable Palazzo Di Varignana in the Bolognese countryside just a short drive from the city. This award-winning spa resort is perfect for a long week where you'll be worlds away from the stresses of everyday life, yet within easy reach of all Bologna's foodie delights.

The perfect blend of historic discoveries, an air of romance, and sensational food make Rome an Italy weekend break no-brainer. With so many artistic and architectural masterpieces, Rome could rest on its legacies, but there’s a modernity to the city to experience over a weekend here – lively pizzerias and elegant wine bars to sip the crisp whites grown on the Castelli Romani hillsides.

It's a city to return to time and time again, but first-timers shouldn’t miss its most famous location – the epic Colosseum, which was the heart of the gladiator dramas of ancient Rome. To be close to all the key sightseeing spots, splash out on a room in the legendary Hotel Eden , one of the city's most prestigious five-star hotels and a romantic haven for a weekender in the Eternal City.

Synonymous with Italy’s fashion industry, Milan is Italy’s design and style central. The g ateway to the Italian Lakes , it’s too often rushed through in pursuit of the dazzling Lake Como – particularly in the summer when the temperatures rise. But there’s plenty to explore on a weekend break here.

Admire the magnificent pink-hued Duomo, a Gothic cathedral crafted in Candoglia marble. Then stroll down Via Montenapoleone for window shopping, Milan style. And when evening rolls around, feast on the aperitivi that appear in the chic bars where theatre and opera-goers sip on pre-show cocktails. If you're looking to stay in a grande dame hotel at the heart of it all, don't miss Principe di Savoia, a gilded gem of a property that's full of the great and the good of the city, plus discerning international travellers.

Although it's well worth lingering in Milan , Lake Como (which is just a short drive from the city) remains a classic in the realm of Italy weekend breaks. The scenery is quite simply stunning and unlike anywhere else in the world, with placid lakes surrounded by undulating mountains. The gardens are glorious too, so the green-fingered will delight in a stay here. And while sparkling Lake Maggiore and lesser-known Lake Lugano are also well worth a visit, you can't really beat Lake Como for a couple of days of indulgent relaxation.

There are many, many glamorous five-star hotels that surround Italy's most famous lake, but to soak up the cinematic dolce vita style from a modern classic, choose Il Sereno . It's spacious suites offer some of the best lake views possible, and guests can take the hotel's own Riva out for a spin (self-drive tours mean you'll be behind the wheel) when the mood to explore strikes.

The Amalfi Coast is so gorgeous, it can feel like no amount of time there is enough – so why not start with a long weekend? A quick flight to Naples and a ferry will get you to this (there's simply no better word) iconic destination, which is sun-soaked and splendid throughout the spring and summer months.

For an unforgettable stay, check in to Palazzo Avino , a 12th-century private villa turned five-star haven in the tiny village of Ravello. It's considered to be among the finest hotels in the world and there's a Michelin-starred restaurant, so this is certainly treat territory, but as it's just for the weekend, why not?

If you've already visited Lake Como and fancy a change, consider the beautiful Lake Garda . Known for its crystal clear waters and striking scenery, you can spend the days here cruising the waters by boat, taking in the majestic Dolomites and stopping off at pretty towns like Salò and Sirmione in the south, with its harbour-facing fortress.

As for where to stay in Lake Garda, why not make a wellness weekend of it? For that, look no further than Lefay Resort & Spa , an internationally acclaimed temple of wellbeing that overlooks Lake Garda, nestled among the Dolomites. Indulge in spa treatments or enjoy a bespoke weekend retreat.

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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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How to plan a trip to Italy

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• how-to-plan-a-trip-to-italy

written by Joanne Owen

updated 5.02.2024

​Radiating vitality from its natty north to its stylish southern heel, there are plenty of reasons Italy attracts a remarkable range of traveller types. Given its fabulous food, sun-soaked coastline, picture-perfect panoramas, and all those extraordinary ancient sites, it’s no wonder Italy sparks a desire to return. But how do you plan a perfect trip to Italy? There’s simply too much to see — and fall in love with — during a single trip, and planning a stay in Italy can be overwhelming.

Step 1 – Best time to go and budget

Step 2 - decide where to go in italy, step 3 - pre-book accommodation and attractions, step 4 – get ready for departure, step 5 - plan your italy itinerary, step 6 - leave time to seize the day, take a trip designed by local travel experts.

The question "how to plan a trip to Italy" is often related to weather and budget, so let's dive into this first.

• Best time to visit Italy

When it comes to visiting Italy timing is everything. The best time to visit largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. If you seek pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and cost-effective travel, spring ( April and May ) and fall ( September and October ) are the best times to visit Italy . Since these are known as the shoulder months, you're likely to enjoy a milder climate, fewer tourists, and more affordable accommodations. Conversely, peak season, from June to August , sees a spike in temperature, crowded tourist spots, and higher prices. However, there are a few key times to avoid, such as Easter Week and around Christmas when Italy becomes very busy and prices soar.

Remember though, the best time to visit Italy is when it suits your schedule and your interests  

How much will it cost?

When it comes to costs, it varies greatly depending on where you go, when you go, how you travel, and your personal preferences. Here are some average costs to guide your budgeting process.

• Lodging : A budget hotel for two people ranges from $50 to $150. For a mid-range hotel, expect $150-$350. Luxury hotels can start at $350 and go up from there.
• Food : Estimate around $25-$50 per person for city tours and add in your meals, you're looking at approximately $75-$100 per person/per day.
• Travel : For intercity travel, train fares vary from $15 to $60 depending on distance.
• Attractions : Prices for tourist spots can vary, but averaged out, expect to spend around $15-$25/day on entrance fees to museums, historical sites, etc.

Remember, these are just averages. You could spend less if you're traveling off-peak, cooking your own meals, or staying in more budget accommodations . You could also spend more if you're splurging on gourmet meals, staying in luxury hotels, or traveling extensively between cities.

Remember, similar to the best time to visit, the cost also depends on your personal preferences and style of travel

Riomaggiore of Cinque Terre, Italy © Shutterstock

That’s why we’ve created this guide to planning a trip to Italy - to help you make the most of your time in this perennial stunner. These simple steps will help you decide where and when to go, and where to stay. Crucially, we’ll also show you how you’ll stay connected while you’re away.

Best cities to visit

When it comes to cities in Italy, the options are boundless, each offering its own unique charm, history, cultures, and cuisines. Here are a few you might want to consider:

• Rome : Known as the 'Eternal City'. Rome's attractions include the iconic Colosseum , Palatino, Roman Forum , and Pantheon. Don't forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome. For a real taste of Rome, visit Trastevere neighbourhood, known for its bohemian flare and delectable food.
• Venice : One of the most picturesque cities in the world, Venice is renowned for its charming canals, historic monuments, and ornate architecture. A gondola ride through its narrow canals or a walk through its labyrinth of winding streets is a must.
• Florence : Birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is an art lover's paradise. Be sure to visit the Uffizi Gallery and Florence's famous Duomo. The city is also known for its leather markets and rich cuisine.
• Naples : For the pizza lovers, Naples, the birthplace of pizza, is a must-visit. Excursions to the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and down the scenic Amalfi Coast , are also highlights of the region.

Remember, this is just a taste of all that Italy. The country is littered with charming towns and bustling cities each holding its own unique attractions.

Best areas to visit

While Italy's cities are charming and packed with history, the northern regions of the country also offer stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unique experiences.

• Tuscany : Known for its stunning landscapes, art, history, and viticulture. Visit medieval towns like Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano, and be sure to tour the vineyards for some of the best wine tastings you'll ever experience!
• Amalfi Coast : One of Italy's most breathtaking coastal regions. It's famous for its colorful towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, which are precariously perched on cliffs overlooking the sea.
• Cinque Terre : A string of five centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Its hiking trails and stunning views are a real treat for the eyes.
• Lake Como : Luxury, beauty, and tranquility all come together in Lake Como. The lake is surrounded by mountains and dotted with beautiful villas and resort villages.

These regions offer a unique experience, you can enjoy an urban experience in the morning and immerse yourself in the beautiful countryside or relax by a lake in the afternoon. Each region has its own distinct flavor and culture worth experiencing.

View of Montalcino town, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

Best wine yards to visit

Italy, renowned for its world-class vineyards, offers a plethora of options for wine connoisseurs and novices alike. Here are some of the best regions to explore:

• Tuscany : Tuscany is home to some of the world's most notable wine regions. Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are primarily made with Sangiovese grape whereas the Vernaccia grape is the basis of the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano. 
• Sicily : Sicily's Marsala wines are world-famous. The region's hot climate, fertile soil, and hilly terrain offer perfect conditions for producing a variety of wines.
• Veneto : Known for its Prosecco and Soave wines. The region offers splendid views over terraced vineyards, unique to the region.
• Barbagia, Sardinia : For a truly authentic experience, consider exploring the vineyards of Sardinia, the island's climate and rugged terrain make for some distinctive wines. 

When at these wineries, don't forget to pair the wines with some local cheeses and indulge in wine tours . Each vineyard has its unique methods of cultivation, fermentation, and aging wines that provide you an insight into the intricate and fascinating process of winemaking.

Best lakes to visit

Italy is famous for its picturesque lakes with awe-inspiring landscapes. Here are the ones worth a visit, including the breathtaking Dolomites.

• Lake Como : Surrounded by mountains and studded with charming villages and villas, Lake Como is a must-visit for its beauty and tranquillity. Celebrity spotting (such as George Clooney!) is also a fun activity on Como.
• Lake Garda : Italy's largest lake, Lake Garda, is home to charming medieval towns, thermal bath towns, vineyards, and the family-friendly Gardaland amusement park. The lake has a more rustic feel compared to Como. 
• Lake Maggiore : Visit the stunning Isole Borromee with their ornate palaces and lavish gardens. Also, it's less crowded than Como and Garda, making it a peaceful retreat. 

While each lake has its own unique charm, they all offer activities such as swimming, boating, and hiking along with exceptional hospitality. Choose a lakeside villa or hotel for maximum views and comfort.

Varenna old town in Como lake © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

Major attractions

Italy bursts with world-renowned historical sites and cultural landmarks. While you might not cover it all, ensure your Italy itinerary includes these major ones:

• Colosseum (Rome) : The iconic symbol of Imperial Rome, it's one of the best-preserved monuments of the Ancient world and provides an unparalleled insight into the life and times of ancient Rome.
• Vatican Museums (Vatican City) : Housing an extensive collection of art, sculpture, and cultural artifacts, the Vatican Museums are a triumph of human imagination and creativity. Also, visit the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece ceiling.
• Pompeii (Naples) : Visit the ancient city of Pompeii, frozen in time since the catastrophic Vesuvius eruption of AD 79.
• Leaning Tower of Pisa ( Pisa ) : The famous leaning bell tower is a marvel of medieval engineering popularly known for its unintended tilt.
• The Venice Canals (Venice) : A gondola ride through these famous canals is an essential experience when visiting Venice.

Your experience isn't confined to these major landmarks. Italy is rich with cultural and historical splendors and even a short stroll down any street might lead you to a smaller, yet remarkable gem. [Insert images of the listed attractions].

Remember to pre-book your entrance tickets where possible to bypass lengthy lines and ensure a smooth visit.

Accommodation

Accommodation forms a crucial part of your travel planning. Italy offers a wide range of options from high-rise luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and authentic agriturismo farm-stays. The choice depends on your budget, preferred location, and the kind of experience you seek.

• City Hotels : Major cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice offer a multitude of options in various budgets. Websites like Booking.com are excellent for comparing rates and amenities, as well as for finding deals on hotels, bed and breakfasts, and apartments [Add screenshot of Booking.com interface].
• Bed and Breakfasts/Hostels : A comfortable and cost-effective choice, especially for solo travelers or those on a tight budget. Be ready for a homely, quaint experience and a chance to mingle with other travelers.
• Agriturismo or Farm Stays : Offered by Italian farmers as a way to supplement their income, these are very popular in Italy and range from budget to luxury. Besides providing accommodations, some also offer meals made from fresh farm produce. A unique way to enjoy Italy’s countryside [Insert image of an agriturismo].
• Apartments/Vacation Rentals : Ideal for family trips or a larger group of travelers. Websites like Airbnb and Plum Guide offer an extensive list, often cheaper than hotels and give you the freedom to cook your own meals if you wish [Add screenshot of Airbnb interface].

Remember to always check reviews before booking and take advantage of the flexible cancellation policies offered by many services. At some popular tourist locations, bookings can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to reserve your accommodation well in advance.

Check the best hotels in Italy here .

Aerial view Italy's famous medieval San Gimignano hill town © Shutterstock

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Italy tours

Italy's rich history and diverse landscapes make it a dream destination for (day) tours. They provide an excellent way to learn about the culture and history of the places you are visiting. Here are our top picks:

• Food tours : Delve into Italy's culinary delights with a food tour. Savor traditional dishes and learn about regional cuisines. These tours often include visits to local markets, cooking demonstrations, and tastings at renowned eateries.
• Senior tours : Tailored for comfort and accessibility, senior tours in Italy offer a blend of leisure and cultural immersion. These tours prioritize ease of travel, with guided visits to historical sites and scenic landscapes, ensuring a fulfilling experience without physical strain.
• Train tours : Experience the scenic beauty of Italy from the comfort of a train. These tours combine the romance of rail travel with the convenience of guided visits to iconic cities and hidden gems, all while traversing Italy's picturesque countryside.
• Wine tours : Explore Italy's renowned vineyards on a wine tour. Learn about wine-making traditions, visit esteemed wineries, and taste world-class wines. These tours often include guided tastings and insights into local viticulture, perfect for enthusiasts and novices alike.

Consider building a couple of these tours when planning your trip to Italy . Remember, tours using guidebooks fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons, so it's wise to book in advance. Of course, self-guided tours using our guide books or apps are another good option for those who prefer a self-paced experience.

Activities and experiences

Immersing yourself in Italian culture is part of the attraction. Here are some recommended experiences that vary from culinary tours to exploring the countryside:

• Road tripping: Explore Italy's diverse regions with a road trip adventure. Journey along the Amalfi Coast for stunning coastal views or through Tuscany’s vineyard-covered hills. Road trips offer the freedom to discover Italy’s hidden gems and picturesque landscapes at your own pace.
• Art and architecture exploration: Immerse yourself in Italy’s rich artistic heritage. Wander through world-famous museums, gaze at Renaissance masterpieces, and delve into ancient Roman ruins. This activity offers a deep dive into Italy's profound cultural and historical impact.
• Cycling adventures: Cycle through Italy’s scenic countryside, quaint villages, and along beautiful coastlines. Suitable for all skill levels, cycling adventures are an active way to engage with Italy’s landscapes and local culture.
• Boat excursions: Experience Italy from its captivating waterways. Glide in a Venetian gondola or cruise around the islands of Capri and Sicily. Boat excursions provide a unique perspective of Italy’s coastal beauty and maritime charm.
• Hiking: Traverse Italy's varied terrains on foot. Hike through the majestic Dolomites, the scenic trails of Cinque Terre, or historic pilgrimage routes. Hiking offers a perfect combination of natural splendor and cultural discovery.

Remember that while it's essential to have a well-planned travel itinerary, also leave room for spontaneity. This could be as simple as enjoying a cup of espresso in a quiet corner café or an unexpected detour into a local market. These unplanned moments often turn out to be the highlights of your trip.

View over the famous Village of Limone sul Garda, Italy © Shutterstock

Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower in Florence © Shutterstock

Get a credit card and budgetize

Getting a credit card that offers travel rewards can be highly beneficial for your trip to Italy. Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees, and good cash back or points systems. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Italy, while American Express and Diners Club may not be as popular.

In terms of budgeting, set up a daily budget covering all essential aspects like food, accommodation, travel, and activities. Decide what you want to splurge on and where to save. If you're on a tight budget, cooking your own meals and choosing more budget-friendly accommodation can help significantly reduce expenses.

Also, be aware of foreign currency charges and ATM withdrawal fees in Italy. Consider getting a foreign currency card like the Wise Mastercard where you can convert Euros easily and cheaply from your US, Australian or Canadian dollar accounts.

Lastly, ensure you keep some funds aside for unexpected expenses. Planning a budget beforehand ensures your trip runs smoothly, and you can enjoy your dream Italian vacation without the stress of unexpected costs.

Look for airport transfers

Arranging airport transfers in advance can save you time and stress upon arrival in Italy. Most Italian airports are located quite a distance from the city center, and public transportation might not always be convenient, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group.

Consider car rental deals or comparing different transfer services like Suntransfers or Welcome Pickups . They offer several options from budget to luxury that suit different needs, including coach, mini bus, private cars, and limo services. The service ensures that someone will be waiting for you at arrivals, and will take you directly to your accommodation in the quickest and easiest way.

For example, to transfer from Rome’s Fiumicino airport into the city center, taxis offer a set rate of €$50 and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Or, if you're a group traveling with multiple items of luggage, a pre-booked transfer can be a better option

Stay connected

Once you've figured out your transportation and lodging for your trip to Italy, don't overlook another essential aspect: staying connected while abroad — conveniently and without spending a fortune.

Even if you've decided to avoid work emails during your vacation (which is great), having access to affordable data will definitely enhance your experience.

For starters, it'll make navigation a breeze and keep you connected with people back home. You'll likely also want to share live updates and photos of your journey. To do this, you need immediate data access.

You're probably already aware of these advantages, but may be concerned about the cost — nobody wants to spend excessively to stay connected while traveling. Fortunately, with an international SIM card or eSIM from SIMCorner , a trusted partner of Rough Guides, you don’t have to worry about high costs.

Thanks to partnerships with top telecom providers worldwide, SIMCorner offers products for every type of traveler, especially those heading to Italy.

For those tired of hidden fees and reluctant to commit long-term, SIMCorner's data plans and services are contract-free. This means you can use your SIM card or eSIM as needed, and put it on hold when not in use. It's that simple.

If you plan a trip to Italy, make sure to check the Old Town of San Leo © Shutterstock

How many days do you need in Italy?

The ideal length of a trip to Italy greatly depends on your travel desires and time constraints. For a decent first visit, aim for at least 7 to 10 days, which will let you cover the country's major cities such as Rome , Florence, and Venice with a day or two for exploring smaller towns.

If you're happy to move fast though, Italy's highlights could be covered on a 10-day whirlwind tour. This would give you a couple of days in Venice and Florence, a day each in Bologna, Pisa and Naples, and around three days in Rome.

If your time is limited to only 3-5 days, it's advised to choose one region or city to explore deeply, rather than rush through several destinations.

On the other hand, with a longer stay of around two weeks, you have the opportunity to see both the north and the south, and perhaps even squeeze in a visit to Sicily or Sardinia.

Keep in mind, these durations are just general guidelines. Elongating the stay will allow a deeper connection with the country, its culture, and its people. Your travel duration should cater to your interests, be it history, cuisine, art, or simply relaxation. Remember, Italy is a country filled with endless wonders and even a lifetime might not be enough to explore them all.

How to spend 5 days in Italy

If you only have five days in Italy , you may want to focus your trip on one or two destinations. For example, you could split your trip between Rome and Florence, spending three days in Rome and two in Florence. Here's how:

Day 1-3: Rome Immerse yourself in the history of the Eternal City. Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Also, take a walk through St. Peter's Square, or take a tour of the Vatican Museums. Roam around Trastevere for an authentic Italian dinner.

Day 4-5: Florence Hop on a high-speed train to Florence. Enjoy Renaissance art at Uffizi Gallery, marvel at the view from Piazzale Michelangelo, and visit the Florence Cathedral. Dedicate half a day for a trip to Pisa or a Tuscan wine tour.

Remember, this plan for Italy travel planning offers a taste of Italy's rich culture and history within a short timeframe. Modify it as per your preferences. If you're more interested in slow-paced vacations, consider focusing just on Rome, exploring the city thoroughly, and embracing the local lifestyle.

Titus Arch and the Roman Colosseum in Rome, Italy as seen from the Palatine Hill © Shutterstock

How to spend 7 days in Italy

7 days in Italy is a wonderful amount of time to get a taste of Italy's treasures. For first-time visitors, a common itinerary is the classic trio of Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Day 1-3: Rome Spend the first few days exploring Rome's iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Visit the Vatican City, marvelling at Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel.

Day 4-5: Florence Take a train to Florence. Spend a day exploring the city’s art history in Uffizi Gallery, climb the Duomo, and take a sunset stroll across the Ponte Vecchio.

Day 6-7: Venice Board a train to Venice. Visit St. Mark’s Square to see the Doge’s Palace, tour the Bell Tower, or visit the Rialto Market. Don’t forget to take a traditional gondola ride through the canals, for an authentic Venetian affair.

Remember, while it’s a whirlwind tour, this example itinerary offers an introduction to three utterly different and equally enchanting Italian cities. Be flexible with the plan and adjust it according to your interests and energy levels. Travelling should also include enjoying a gelato on a city square, sipping a cup of rich Italian espresso at a streetside café, and taking leisurely strolls soaking in the city’s atmosphere. 

How to spend 10 days in Italy

With 10 days in Italy you have more time to delve deeper into Italy's rich offerings. In addition to the must-see cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence, 10 days provide a sufficient window to explore additional cities, like:

• Rome (3 days) : Start by immersing yourself in the Eternal City's historical grandeur - from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, to St. Peter's Square and the Vatican.
• Florence (2 days) : Head to the birthplace of the Renaissance, visit the Uffizi Gallery, Florence's iconic Duomo and savor Tuscan delights.
• Pisa (1 day) : Visit the remarkable Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore the surrounding area's historical sights.
• Venice (2 days) : Discover the unique city on water with its famous canals and gondolas. Visit St. Mark's Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
• Milan (2 days) : Conclude in Milan, Italy's fashion capital. Don't miss the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci and visit the majestic Duomo.

These select destinations give you a comprehensive flavor of Italy’s diverse culture, history, and landscapes. And you'll still have some downtime for savoring the food, wine, and the Italian way of life. [Add corresponding pictures of the city's main attractions here]

Remember, regardless of how detailed your pre-planned itinerary is, leave room for the unexpected to fully experience La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life)!

How to spend 14 days in Italy

With 14 days in Italy at your disposal, you can cover more ground and enjoy a more relaxed pace. This could allow you to explore beyond the traditional Rome-Florence-Venice triangle, and immerse yourself in Italy's enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local cultures. Here's a suggested itinerary with train itineraries:

• Rome (4 days) : Spend 4 days soaking in Rome's ancient sites and vibrant café culture.
• Florence (3 days) : Discover this cradle of the Renaissance, its art treasures, and its delightful food scene.
• Cinque Terre (2 days) : Experience the quaint colorful seaside villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera coast.
• Pisa (1 day) : Visit the iconic Leaning Tower and nearby attractions.
• Venice (2 days) : Explore Venice's romantic canals, historic landmarks, and charming cafes.
• Milan (2 days) : End in Milan to witness its modern side – towering skyscrapers, international fashion scene, and iconic Milan Cathedral.

In this itinerary, along with Italy's cosmopolitan cities you also experience its hidden gems and its rustic, authentic charm. Whether you're strolling Rome's ancient streets or tasting fresh seafood in Cinque Terre, these two weeks will provide a taste of Italy's diversity, history, and irresistible allure.

Remember, a slower schedule can often result in a richer experience. Balance your itinerary with rest and relaxation, and allow time to savour Italy's culinary delights, and just people-watch in beautiful piazzas. Leave room for some spontaneity, and you'll find your travel memories are all the richer! 

You can't plan a trip to Italy, without adding Venice © Shutterstock

Don't overplan

One of the top mistakes people make while planning a trip to Italy is trying to fit in too much. While it's important to have an itinerary , don't fill every minute of your day with activities. Italy is best enjoyed at a slower pace, taking time to stroll through its cobblestone streets, sip an espresso at a sidewalk cafe, or linger over a delicious meal at a local trattoria.

It's also essential to be flexible. Perhaps you discover a picturesque spot perfect for a picnic that wasn't in your original plan, or you come across a charming street market that you would love to explore. Having some wiggle room in your itinerary allows you to seize these unexpected opportunities.

Finally, keep in mind that winding lanes and Google Maps often don’t mix. Allow extra time for getting lost - it’s part of the charm of traveling in Italy! You are on vacation after all, take time to enjoy, relax and let Italy slowly reveal itself to you.

Remember, the goal of the trip is to enjoy and experience Italy, not tick off a list of sites.

Plan some free days

In addition to structured activities and tours, you should always account for a few free days in your itineraries. These can be used for a wide variety of unscripted adventures such as:

• Exploring neighborhoods : Navigate through the winding streets of intriguing districts like Trastevere in Rome or Navigli in Milan.
• Enjoying local cuisine : Delve deeper into Italy's culinary scene. Maybe attend a cooking class or explore local markets to sample regional specialties.
• People watching : There's nothing quite like spending an afternoon relaxing in a beautiful piazza, eating gelato, and watching the world go by. This can easily turn into a highlight of your trip!

These free days give you the chance to dive deep into Italian life and culture, catch your breath, and savor the moments of your journey. They also give you the buffer needed if an attraction was unexpectedly closed or weather was harsh on a day with outdoor activities planned.

Remember, sometimes the most memorable moments emerge when there is no agenda at all!

Vernazza in Cinque Terre ©Shutterstock

Planning your Italy trip? Let our local experts help

Take a trip designed by local travel experts speaks to the heart of an authentic Italian adventure. Here's why choosing a trip curated by local experts elevates your Italian experience:

• Personalized itineraries: Our local travel experts craft itineraries that align with your interests and preferences. Whether you're an art aficionado, a food lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, your trip will be tailored to your passions, ensuring a deeply personal and fulfilling experience.
• Insider knowledge: Local experts possess invaluable insider knowledge. They guide you to hidden gems and authentic experiences that typical tourists might miss. This means dining at off-the-beaten-path trattorias, exploring lesser-known historical sites, and engaging in local traditions.
• Efficient planning: Navigating a foreign country can be daunting. Local experts streamline your trip, handling logistics like transportation, accommodations, and bookings. This efficient planning removes stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.
• Cultural immersion: A trip designed by locals immerses you in Italian culture. You gain insights into the local way of life, participate in traditional activities, and engage with the community. This cultural immersion fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Italy.
• Support and safety:** Traveling with the backing of local experts ensures you have support throughout your trip. They provide valuable advice, assist in case of emergencies, and ensure your safety, offering peace of mind as you explore.

In essence, a trip designed by local travel experts transforms your Italian vacation into an unforgettable, authentic, and hassle-free experience, enriching your journey beyond the ordinary.

Travel advice for Italy

To make the most of your Italy trip, here are a few tried-and-tested tips:

• Avoid peak season : Beginner travelers might want to avoid July and August, when Italy tends to get hot, crowded, and expensive.
• Public transportation : Train travel is highly efficient and cost-effective in Italy. Enjoy the scenery and save on car rental and parking fees.
• Water : It's safe to drink tap water in Italy, saving you money on bottled water.
• Tipping : Service charge is generally included in your restaurant bill, so tipping isn’t necessary but appreciated. A tip of one to three Euros or rounding off the bill is common.
• Dress code for churches : When visiting the numerous beautiful churches in Italy, it's appreciated to cover your shoulders and knees.
• Eat like a Local : Trying local food is half the fun of travel. Enjoy hearty Italian meals and make sure to try regional dishes.
• Safety : Italy is generally safe, but pickpocketing remains an issue. As always, it’s important to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions, particularly in crowded areas.

Remember, travel destinations are about breaking away from the hustle of everyday life, discovering new cultures, cuisines, and people, and creating lasting memories. [Images depicting local food, people at a public transport station, and some safety signs should be spread throughout this section].

Enjoy your trip and say "Ciao" to Italy on our behalf. Buon Viaggio (Safe Travels)!

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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30+ Italy Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: July 6, 2023

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Ah, Italy. I’ll never understand how a country so beautiful can be so stressful.

As one of the most romanticized countries in the world, many first time visitors are shocked to discover that Bella Italia isn’t just a non stop parade of gelato, spaghetti and Vespa rides with men named Paolo.

Pickpockets? Bone-chillingly ruthless drivers? Random fees and charges? Unspoken food rules that feel more important than actual laws?

Yes, Italy is amazing… but it also has a lot of random traps and culture shocks that stump first time visitors.

… But not you! Because you’re here. And you’re about to learn all my top Italy travel tips, assembled after a decade of frequent trips to (what is honestly) one of my favourite countries in the world.

So, read on for a list of important must knows before you visit Italy. Armed with these, you can properly enjoy your Italian dream trip just like in the movies.

Save this list of Italy Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Expand your Italy itinerary beyond the best known places

Let’s get this out of the way: Italy is a popular place, and thanks to the powers of social media, droolworthy destinations like Rome , Florence, Venice, Milan , Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast are now firmly at the top of everybody (and their mom)’s bucket lists.

But with this popularity comes crowds, and quite ironically, many tourists find that ‘too many tourists’ can ruin their experience.

Luckily there are ways to enjoy Italy away from the crowds – the main one being to visit more offbeat places.

That’s not to say you should avoid Rome or Venice altogether, but here’s what I would suggest: pick a popular place as your base, then diversify your itinerary by adding on side trips to quieter gems nearby.

For instance…

• Going to Venice? Add on cool nearby cities like Padua and Ferrara or venture farther North to visit Trentino or South Tyrol.
• Going to Rome? Visit Tivoli! And actually Fiumicino (by the airport) is quite nice.
• Going to Florence? Add a visit to Bologna, or other tasty towns around Emilia Romagna.
• Going to Cinque Terre? Visit more towns along the Ligurian coast, or add on a day or two in Genoa – the region’s capital.

Of course, you can also simply focus your entire trip on a lesser explored part of Italy. With twenty regions and hundreds of islands off the mainland to choose from, you’re spoiled for choice.

2. Avoid peak season like the plague

I know summer in Italy sounds like a dream.

… But it’s not. It’s sticky. It’s crowded. And it’s when prices are at their most eye-gouging.

So, if you have the luxury of flexibility, I’d opt for a visit in the shoulder seasons ( Spring or Fall) or, in the case of city breaks, even a visit in the winter.

I’ve done city trips to Rome, Venice and Verona in the dead of winter and while the weather was hit and miss, the lack of crowds and tolerable accommodation prices more than made up for it.

3. For city to city travel, choose public transport if possible

Driving in Italy can be a stressful endeavour and only really necessary if you plan to visit smaller villages or more remote areas.

Otherwise, city travel with trains or buses couldn’t be easier. If you’re unsure of which options make the most sense for your trip, then I’d recommend hopping on Omio to compare buses, trains and flights at a glance.

I cover more in my guide on the cheapest ways to travel Europe , so be sure to check that out for more info.

4. Beware the common mistakes when renting a car

Of course, if you’re up for the thrills of real-life Italian Mario Kart, then there are a few extra things you should know. Here are some tips for renting a car in Italy.

When renting a car in Italy, try to…

• Pick a small one because you never know when you might end up on an impossibly narrow Italian road
• Get a vignette if driving into other countries. This is a paid sticker that you must put on your car if you want to use the country’s motorways, otherwise you get fined. You don’t need them in Italy, but you do for many of Italy’s neighbours like Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia.
• Avoid ZTLs, or Zona a Traffico Limitato. These are zones in busy cities where you can get fined for driving in them during certain hours.

5. Buy bus tickets in advance

One of the stranger quirks of Italy travel is that bus tickets oftentimes aren’t available for purchase on the bus.

In these cases, you need to make sure you have tickets for the bus before boarding. Luckily, you can usually buy these from a Tabacchi (Tobacco Shop / Convenience Store) or newspaper stand.

NOTE: With these pre-purchased tickets, make sure you validate them through a machine once you board, or you may be fined if ticket controllers come on board.

6. Always buy train tickets in advance too

If you look up the word “stressed” in the dictionary, it’s likely you’ll encounter a photograph of a sweaty, lost tourist in an Italian train station.

I don’t know what it is. Maybe it’s the heat. Or the omni-present pickpockets. Maybe it’s the parade of quick-moving humans who all seem to know what they’re doing besides you… or the fact that you’re dragging all your bags along with you. But Italian train stations (for those new to them) can be some of the most chaotic and stressful places on Planet Earth.

SO, my best Italy travel tip for avoiding the stress and chaos of train stations is to simply book your tickets ahead of time, so you’re not awkwardly staring at a machine upon arrival, trying not to cry.

You’ll usually save money this way too!

You can check out my post about how to take trains in Europe for more info on the train taking process.

7. Always validate physical tickets when needed

In Italy, having a train ticket isn’t enough to avoid a fine. It must be properly validated too.

This is one of the top mistakes tourists make in Italy, so don’t let that be you! If you have a physical train ticket, be sure to validate it as needed at a machine like this:

8. Remember that there’s tremendous cultural diversity within Italy

For many, Italy is a country we feel like we know a lot about thanks to its total domination in popular media and culture.

But the truth is, Italy can look VERY different depending on where you go, and all things from culinary specialties to even language can differ based on region.

For instance, there are parts of Northern Italy where German is so commonly spoken that many major destinations have both Italian and German names. (Lago di Braies and Pragser Wildsee are the same place! Who knew?)

So, anyways, before your trip, try to cleanse your brain of any random Italian stereotypes and be sure to research cultural norms appropriate for your destination.

9. Learn how to say hello and thank you

Apart from my usual reason that it’s just good manners to learn a bit of the local language, in Italy there’s the bonus perk that Italian is just so fun to speak.

So take advantage and speak as much of it as you can while you’re there. Knowing the basics can go a long way.

Here are the basics to learn by heart before your visit:

• Hello (in the morning/afternoon): Buongiorno (Bwon-JOOR-no) 
• Hello (in the evening): Buonasera (Bwon-ah-SAY-ruh)
• Thank you: Grazie (GRAHT-see-eh)

10. Bring a bag you can easily carry

One of the biggest beginner mistakes that visitors make in Italy is they pack way too much and are left red-faced dragging their gargantuan suitcases across centuries-old cobblestones, trying in vain to find their hotel which… probably doesn’t have an elevator.

I get it – the urge to look cute while lapping up gelato is SO strong, but remember there’s ways you can pack light and still not look like a slob.

So, my best Italy packing tip is to simply not bring any bags you can’t physically carry.

Trust me, there are many situations where you might need to pick up your bag (going up stairs, getting on a train, etc.) so if you’re not able to lift your own bag, then you need to downsize pronto.

This tip is especially important in places like Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast where there’s a lack of roads and lot of stairs.

11. Cover up when visiting churches

Unbeknownst to many first time visitors, churches in Italy usually have a dress code stating that shoulders and knees must be covered. If you’re not dressed appropriately, often you won’t be let in.

SO, if you’re visiting in the summer, make sure you have a scarf you can drape over yourself and at least one or two long options for bottoms.

12. Prepare yourself for scaffolding and restorations

Italy is an amazing destination thanks (in part) to its fascinating history.

… The flip side of that history? Many of the country’s most famous monuments have seen better days, and are in constant need of repair/restoration.

So, mentally prepare yourself for the possibility that the amazing church or landmark you’ve seen a million times on social media is covered in scaffolding, or doesn’t look as you hoped due to restorations.

As a harrowing example, this is what the Trevi Fountain looked like on my first trip to Rome.

13. Book tickets for popular attractions in advance

Sorry for the aggression but I’m really passionate about this: the absolute worst waste of time during your Italy trip is waiting in line to buy tickets the day-of.

If you are reading this right now, you have access to the Internet. As such, you have access to buying tickets in advance… which you should do because it’s usually cheaper, saves you waiting in line, and also protects you in peak season if things sell out, which they often do.

So, buy those tickets in advance! I usually book directly on the attraction’s official website, or scour sites like GetYourGuide and Tiqets for deals.

NOTE: If there’s a skip the line option, most of the time it’s also worth the extra cost.

14. Learn the tricks to avoiding crowds at attractions

It’s ironic really – most tourists hate seeing other tourists when they sightsee.

After all, how dare the public be out in public at the same time as me?!

But hey, if this irrational peeve is one you share, I have some great tips for avoiding crowds in Italy. You might not like some of them, but trust me – they work!

Here’s how to avoid crowds at major attractions in Italy (especially during peak season):

• Wake up at sunrise to explore/take photos
• Visit attractions shortly before closing time (this is how I managed to get the Vatican Museum practically to myself!)
• Look into sunrise or after hours tours for attractions

15. Buy a city pass or card

Besides crowds, the other villain in your Italy sightseeing journey is prices .

Yes, visiting attractions in Italy (especially the big ones) can get real spendy real quick.

Luckily, there are many ways to save. One of my favourite tips for saving money on Italian attractions is getting a city card or pass, which gives you entry to most major attractions in a place for one set cost.

For instance, I’ve used this card in the past to check out all the fun things to do in Verona , and found it not only saved me lots of money, it also pushed me to see some more off the beaten path attractions I would’ve otherwise not paid for.

Every city will have some kind of pass for this purpose, so be sure to look into it, crunch the numbers, and see if it’s worth it for you!

16. Beware of pickpockets

It’s not a fun topic, but no list of travel tips for Italy would be complete without a quick pep talk about dodging pickpockets.

I do have a full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe if you want more specific information, but just know that pickpocketing is a very common occurrence in touristy Italian cities.

I was actually pickpocketed in Rome during my first backpacking trip, so I know this from sad, first-hand experience.

But don’t worry – a little common sense (which I lacked at the time) can go a long way.

Remember, pickpockets thrive on easy, unsuspecting targets, so to make sure that’s not you, here are some quick tips for avoiding pickpockets in Italy:

• Be ultra vigilant in busy areas like train stations or tourist attractions
• Keep as much distance as possible between you and others
• Avoid things being given to you for “free” e.g. friendship bracelets or roses – often they will then demand you pay
• Don’t sign any petitions – often they will hassle you for a donation or use it as a distraction while pickpocketing you

17. Don’t freak out when your accommodation photocopies your passport

There are a lot of random culture shocks that first time visitors experience in Italy – one of the most jarring (and immediate) is that hotels/accommodation will take your passport and make a photocopy of it upon arrival.

But don’t worry, before your mind jumps to an Italian thief stealing your identity, just know that this is a common legal practice they have to abide by, and not a super brazen scam.

18. Prepare for the tourist tax

Another thing that feels like a scam, but actually isn’t? The almighty Italian tourist tax.

The reason this feels like an illegitimate ploy is because they usually ask for the tax in person, and some old school places will also demand it’s paid in cash.

But don’t worry – just like the passport thing, the Italian tourist tax is also not a scam. It’s simply an additional charge to be paid on arrival, and the amount is typically 3-7 euros per person per night.

19. Make sure you have cash

While we’re chatting about money, I have to say this as well: when you get to Italy, one of your first orders of business should be to get some cash out. Preferably in smaller denominations (like 10 or 20 euro bills).

While card payments are a lot more popular these days in Italy than say, ten years ago, there are still a lot of old school businesses that prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases (i.e. the many, many gelatos you’ll be inhaling).

Having coins is also ideal for situations like vending machines or paid public bathrooms.

On that note…

20. Prepare to pay for the bathroom

Yes, sadly the ‘pee for free’ mentality is increasingly dwindling in Italy.

While some free public bathrooms do exist here, paid ones are becoming more common and usually cost between 50 cents to a euro. So be sure to have some coins on you in case of a urinary emergency.

Otherwise, make sure you do your business at a museum or restaurant before you leave. Even paid public bathrooms can be tough to find sometimes!

21. Be prepared for random toilet flush locations

Italian toilets can be strange. Perhaps it’s just bad luck on my part, but I’ve been caught out multiple times over multiple trips by bizarre flushing mechanisms that take a while to understand.

So, prepare for inconsistency.

Sometimes you’ll walk into a bathroom to find a standard pull flush, sometimes it’s a separate wall mounted flush OR sometimes it’s a pedal on the ground or a random button on the wall.

Overall, it can really vary, so before you panic, take a good look and see if there’s anything nearby that is pressable – odds are that’s the flush.

22. Dine far away from tourist locations

This is one of my top Europe travel tips for any destination, but especially in Italy, I’ve found that the closer restaurants are to tourist hotspots, the pricier and more mediocre the food.

Of course, there’s exceptions (I’ve written previously about where to eat near tourist attractions in Rome ), but avoiding restaurants on main squares or overlooking major landmarks is usually a good idea.

The logic makes sense of course – restaurants in these areas are usually targeting tourists who will never come back, so customer retention is clearly not as much a priority as other restaurants that may cater to a more local demographic.

Often, all it takes is a short walk a few blocks away to find food that is much cheaper, and much tastier too.

23. Learn how to spot tourist trap restaurants

Of course, tourist trap restaurants can exist outside of main squares/hotspots too… so how can you quickly and efficiently weed these out?

Well, there are usually a few tell tale signs in Italy that a restaurant is (probably) going to be a tourist trap, or at the very least, a place that caters more to a tourist demographic.

Here are a few to look out for:

• Menus and signs only in English, rather than Italian (or a BUNCH of menus out front in various languages)
• Large photos of the food outside/on the menu
• A persistent host standing outside trying to get you to sit down
• Big signs advertising appealing tourist perks like Free WiFi

24. Order based on the regional specialties of where you are

When in Italy, the urge to simply order pizza and pasta until you explode is… admittedly, tough to resist.

But the truth is, what we in North America know as Italian food is just a very surface level understanding of Italy’s cuisine.

In reality, Italy is a country with exceptional regional diversity, and most regions and even cities have their own specialty dishes that they excel at.

So, before you simply plonk down and order a pizza everywhere you go, consider what that region specializes in and give that a try. I promise your tastebuds will thank you.

25. Don’t order or look for Americanized Italian classics

I feel like I’m about to break a lot of hearts with this Italy travel tip, but here goes: I’m very sorry to say that many of your favourite “Italian” dishes may not be offered in Italy at all.

Spaghetti and meatballs? Chicken fettucine alfredo? Garlic bread?!

Sadly, none of the above are actually Italian dishes served in Italy, but rather Americanized iterations of Italian classics that (while delicious) are not typically found in traditional Italian restaurants.

Luckily, there’s no shortage of delicious Italian dishes to try, and many of your favourites are probably based on some kind of Italian staple, so do a little research before you head out.

… and if you DO see any of these American-Italian classics on a menu, then take it as a sign that the restaurant caters more to tourists than to locals.

26. Know that the word “menu” in Italy has a second meaning

If you’re used to the word “menu” solely referring to the list of dishes you can order at a restaurant, then you should know the word also has a second meaning in Italy.

Often times, an Italian “menu” refers to a set meal that includes multiple courses, so if you see something like “Menu – 25 euros” that means they are offering a set deal that is 25 euros for multiple courses, not that every dish costs that much.

Ordering a “menu” in this way can often be a more cost-efficient way to enjoy a multi-course meal, so if you’re looking to splurge on a budget, that’s definitely something to consider.

27. Understand the basic structure of an Italian menu

Alright – now the fun stuff! Ordering at a restaurant!

Once you get the hang of them, Italian menus are fairly easy to understand, but can be confusing for first timers so here’s a quick crash course.

The standard structure of an Italian menu goes according to courses, which are normally shown in the sequence they would come during the meal, namely…

• Antipasto:  Appetizers like cured meats, cheeses, etc.
• Primi:  Usually a carby dish like pasta or risotto
• Secondi:  Usually a meat-based dish
• Contorni:  Side dishes like roasted vegetables
• Dolci:  Desserts

But hey, before you force yourself to pick four courses every time – know that practically speaking, it IS completely normal to just have a Primi (a plate of pasta is plenty filling on its own) or a Secondi with a Contorni rather than follow through with something in every course/category.

But hey, if you want to pursue a four course feast in the name of cultural appreciation, that’s an endeavour I’m happy to endorse as well.

28. Beware that many restaurants close between lunch and dinner

Unlike North America where restaurants often stay open all day, it’s common for restaurants in Italy have a mid-day break ( Riposo ) between lunch and dinner, typically between 1-4pm.

During my first trip to Italy, my friends and I referred to this harrowing period as “the food desert” during which all our attempts to secure food were thwarted by a parade of “CHIUSO” (closed) signs.

If you (or your travel companions) suffer from Hangry Hangry Hippo Syndrome, this is an important thing to take note of.

Of course, in larger cities, there will often still be options available, but (from experience) the more traditional restaurants will usually be shut during this in-between period.

29. Make reservations

For popular restaurants, this is a must. Many restaurants in Italy are small and have a limited number of tables, and unlike in North America, many don’t set aside a section for walk-ins.

So, if there’s a particular restaurant you had your heart set on, booking in advance is key. If you feel nervous to do it yourself over the phone, you can always ask someone at your hotel to help you out, or (in the case of bigger cities) try to find places that take an online booking.

30. Expect slower service

The pace of meals (and accordingly, of service) can be a lot slower In Italy than what you’re used to.

Remember, in Italy, meals are meant to be savoured and enjoyed over a few hours, and the assumption is you want your own privacy, so they’ll rarely come in to check on you after they’ve taken your orders/brought your food.

So, if you need anything like another drink, or additional food, make sure to take the initiative and get your server’s attention – they’ll probably ignore you otherwise.

In fact, it’s even considered rude to bring the bill without asking in Italy, so if you’re hoping to pay and leave, make sure you ask for the bill, rather than expect it to come.

31. Take advantage of the free water fountains everywhere

Another great tip for saving money in Italy? Don’t waste money on bottled water.

Across the country, you’ll find free drinking fountains supplying delicious water for all, so bring a refillable bottle to take advantage.

… Or do as I did on a particularly hot day in Rome, and simply drink cupfuls with your hands like you’re cosplaying an ancient farmer after a hard day out on the fields (trust me – it’s more refreshing this way).

32. Be prepared to pay for water in restaurants

Funnily enough however, while free water is available in abundance from fountains on the street in Italy, water isn’t usually free in restaurants. This is because bottled water is the default, and most places won’t offer tap water as an option.

So, when the waiter asks you if you’d like water, know that you’ll likely be charged a small fee per bottle (usually 2-3 euros for a big one.

And be sure to specify whether your want still or sparkling! I tend to go for sparkling – it makes every meal feel like a mini-celebration.

33. Be prepared for the “coperto” charge

Besides water, another charge to be mindful of is the ubiquitous Coperto .

Most restaurants in Italy will charge an additional fee per person (around 2-3 euros) as a “Coperto” charge.

You can think of this a service/sit-down fee, usually including bread too.

This is not a scam – it’s fairly standard, and evens out as tipping culture in Italy is very modest compared to North America, with rounding up or 5-10% being the max.

Take note that this also means oftentimes sitting down to enjoy your coffee, treat, etc. will cost more than taking it away (because a coperto charge does not apply unless you occupy a table). This is why you’ll see most locals consuming their coffee at the bar counter, rather than at a table.

34. Expect breakfast to be small and sweet

… Just like me 🙂

Anyways, if you’re a hot, savoury breakfast person like I am, then you may face a wave of disappointment when you get to Italy.

Unlike their lavish lunches and dinners, Italians treat breakfast as a relatively modest affair. A standard Italian breakfast may be a coffee or cappuccino with a pastry, plus a juice. Not a single egg in sight!

Of course, if this is a dealbreaker for you, many hotels doing continental breakfasts will offer more familiar options – as will some more contemporary cafes in bigger cities.

But if you want to start your day like an Italian, a cappuccino and cornetto is the way to go.

35. Make sure to enjoy Aperitivo

From denim jeans to espresso machines, Italy is responsible for a lot of the world’s most wonderful inventions… but perhaps none is more enjoyable than the almighty Aperitivo.

An Aperitivo is a classic pre-dinner ritual observed across Italy. It refers to a pre-meal drink intended to whet your appetite for dinner.

How to aperitivo depends on where you are. Some places will bring you a free snack or two while you enjoy your drink, while some others will offer a full-on buffet for you to graze at while you enjoy your cocktails.

No matter how you do it, it’s one of the best ways to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, so be sure to partake… if even just in the name of cultural education 😉

36. Familiarize yourself with Italian coffee culture

Speaking of cultural education, it’s time we tackle some Italy coffee tips.

Italians take their coffee seriously, with proper caffeination being a pleasure firmly weaved into the fabric of Italian culture and society.

And while you may think you know coffee from, you know, chugging it by the gallon every morning, there’s a lot of things about Italian coffee culture that commonly catch visitors off guard.

So, here’s a quick list of must-knows for drinking coffee in Italy:

• If going out for coffee, you would be going to a “Bar”, not a “café”
• Coffee is most commonly consumed on-site, usually standing at the counter of the bar. Getting coffee to go isn’t common
• The standard order (Caffè) refers to an espresso shot, not a drip or filter coffee. This kind of coffee isn’t typically offered at traditional coffee bars – instead ask for a Caffè Americano.
• Cappuccinos are typically a breakfast drink – ordering one after 11am is considered a faux pas, especially after a meal
• In contrast, a Caffè (espresso) is very common after a meal to help with digestion
• Lattes do not exist – ordering one may get you a glass of milk as that’s what “Latte” means in Italian. Instead, for a coffee with milk, order an Espresso Macchiato
• Lastly, “Iced coffee” isn’t a common order at traditional coffee bars. Common alternatives include Crema al Caffè, an amazing coffee slushie, or Affogato al Caffè which is gelato topped with espresso

37. Don’t order pepperoni pizza

Niche Italy food tip, but an important one. If pepperoni is your topping of choice back home, just know that in Italy, “peperoni” literally means “bell peppers”.

Which is how you end up getting something like this:

For a North American style pepperoni pizza, instead, the closest thing to look for is pizza with salami.

38. When in doubt, get the house wine

Choosing a wine in Italy may seem like a daunting endeavour, with plenty of tantalizing options and a wild range of prices.

But hey, if you’re a total cheapskate like me and also lack a refined wine palette – the choice is easy! Go for the house wine.

Unlike in North America (where ‘house wine’ is just whatever near-rancid bottles they have left), house wine in Italy is almost always delicious and best of all, budget-friendly.

Plus it’s usually served in a jug which feels wonderfully Middle Ages.

39. Avoid the pretty, colourful gelato

Lastly, I need you to be strong, because this final Italian travel tip is tough to obey.

… But please, as difficult as it is, do NOT give into the hypnotism of the beautiful and vibrant gelato mounds that beckon you from touristy gelato shops.

I’m talking places like this:

Usually, these places with the vibrant gelato mountains topped with decorations are beautiful to look at, but not the best gelato to eat.

That’s because their eye-catching nature usually indicates a lot of artificial colouring and (if there’s huge stacks of it), likely a lack of freshness as well.

In contrast, what you’re looking for are covered metal containers with flat lids. This indicates the gelato is being kept at the right temperature (and on a less technical note, that they take this stuff seriously).

The colours should also be paler and more natural, like so:

I hope this list of Italy travel tips was helpful!

Admittedly, this was a VERY long list of tips for Italy, so if you’re here, I’m beyond proud of you! Hopefully by now, you’ll feel much more prepared for your big Italian vacation, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

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| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Bucket list travel , Europe , Homepage popular , Italy · February 26, 2023

The ultimate Italy bucket list: 50+ epic things to do in Italy

Planning an Italy adventure? Here are more than 50 incredible things to see, do and eat to add to your Italy bucket list.

Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, for good reason. The country boasts a world-renowned culinary scene, award-winning wine, fascinating and varied history, magnificent architecture and picture-perfect scenery, from white sand beaches to rolling countryside to striking mountain landscapes. I know it’s a cliché, but Italy truly has something to offer every type of traveller.

And on a personal note, Italy is one of my all-time favourite countries and somewhere I will always return to. I’ve visited six times now, managing to see much of northern Italy, some of central Italy and a small part of southern Italy, but with plans to head back this summer and explore further and longer.

Planning a trip to Italy can be daunting, it’s so full of things to see, do and eat that it’s hard to know where to start. I like kicking off trip planning by getting some general destination inspiration, so I thought this Italy bucket list might help you get things rolling.

So from historical city centres and ancient ruins through to divine dining experiences and mind-blowing natural scenery, here are 52 things to add to your Italy bucket list.

Northern Italy bucket list

Eat your way around bologna.

Fellow foodies listen up, it would be a crime for you to visit Italy and not spend at least a day in Bologna, one of the world’s most impressive culinary hot spots. It’s the capital of Emilia-Romagna, an Italian region known for its gastronomy, particularly for cured meats, Parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar.

To experience Bologna’s cuisine in the best way I’d highly recommend a food tour with local legend Mattia of Delicious Bologna . He’ll kept you entertained (and comfortably fed!) on a 4-5 hour walking tour which takes you off the tourist trail and gives you genuine insight into Bologna’s food scene, while eating traditional dishes like a classic Italian breakfast, local meats and cheese and a variety of pastas. Be sure to wear stretchy clothes 🙃 and don’t just take my word for it, Mattia’s got a perfect 5/5 rating from more than 415 happy customers on TripAdvisor .

Bologna is easy to reach as a day trip from Florence (38m train) or Milan (1h 4m train), or spend a night or two to enjoy even more good food.

Hike through the Dolomites

Home to perhaps the most striking scenery in all of Italy, the Dolomites are a must-visit for any outdoorsy adventurers.

I’ve found that while the Dolomites are a popular Italian destination for UK and European travellers, they’re hardly ever included in the Europe itineraries of travellers coming from further afar like New Zealand and Australia. But if you’re a keen hiker, you’ve got to add this part of Northern Italy to your itinerary.

There are an endless selection of walking trails ranging from short, flat loops through to technical mountain hikes depending on your skill level and travel preferences.

For an easy option that provides maximum views, spend a day exploring the Alpe di Siusi (also known as Seiser Alm in German) alpine plateau, where you’ll find rolling hills flanked by the jagged Dolomite mountains. You can catch the cable car from Ortisei to the top, spend 2-3 hours walking between a few different mountain huts and viewpoints (longer if you’d like to stop on the way), then catch the cable car down at the other side and catch a short bus back to Ortisei.

The Dolomites are best explored by car, public transport between villages is possible but limited and can be unreliable. On my most recent visit I based myself in Bolzano, the capital of the South Tyrol region and a great gateway for daily trips into the mountains.

Quick tips for Bolzano

Where I stayed | I stayed at Loom Hotel , an incredible boutique design hotel which is actually a living showroom for a local interior design company. Each room is totally different, built with varying materials, colours, furniture and layouts, to showcase what the design company can offer their hotel clients. Such a cool idea!

Other accommodation recommendations | For a cheap and cheerful option you could consider B&B Hotel Bolzano , or if you’d like something self-contained check out Pepper Lounge & Suite

Where to eat | I had some of the best pasta of my life (and I’ve eaten a lot of pasta in my 31 years) at PastaLab , they run a seasonal menu with local ingredients and innovative flavour combinations. This pasta lives rent-free in my head.

Try a via ferrata

A via ferrata (translated as “iron path”) is a permanent climbing route with metal rungs or ladders and a safety cable to clip onto as you scale the Dolomites mountains. There are via ferrata for adventurers of all ages and fitness levels, ranging from basic climbs that don’t go too high, through to expert-level routes with overhangs and the works.

The via ferrata in the Dolomites were once used as supply channels for soldiers in WWI, but now they provide travellers the chance to get up close and personal with the rugged landscape, spot sharp peaks piercing through cloud, and visit traditional alpine huts along the way.

If you’re a via ferrata beginner, don’t stress, there are top-rated via ferrata tours where local mountaineer guides who will get you sorted with the necessary equipment and then take you on a route that suits your skill level and comfort zone.

Fun fact: You can actually do the world’s highest waterfall via ferrata in New Zealand, it’s called Wildwire and it’s one of the best things to do in Wanaka !

See the Insta-famous Lago di Braies

If you aren’t so keen for physical exertion on your Italian holiday then no worries, the Dolomites region actually has plenty of attractions that are accessible by car or with only a short walk.

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee in German) is perhaps the most popular of all, and I can almost guarantee you’ve seen it on your social media feed. With a line of wooden row boats floating from the jetty, snowcapped mountains at the back and thick forest along the sides, it’s certainly one of the most photogenic places in Italy. But that means, unsurprisingly, it gets busy!

No matter what time of the day you visit, chances are you’ll be sharing the lakefront with other travellers, including photographers and elopers taking wedding photos. Sunrise is busy but worth it for the likelihood of very still reflections, sunset can have quite harsh lighting for photography but this means it’s quieter than the morning so is a good time if you’d prefer less crowds.

Another option for a stunning lake that’s very accessible is Lago di Carezza, just 30 minutes from Bolzano by car. I was here at sunset in October, perfect timing for autumn colours, and was one of only three or four people taking photos.

Hit the ski slopes

Northern Italy backs onto the south side of the Alps, making for some incredible skiing opportunities all the way from Via Lattea in the west to the Dolomites in the east.

Typically ( not always ) the skiing in Italy is cheaper than in France, Switzerland and Austria, so if you’re heading to Europe in winter and want to get the best bang for your buck, consider visiting Italy’s ski fields.

Soak up the view from Milan’s exquisite Duomo

The magnificent Duomo di Milano is the jewel in Milan’s tourism crown, and for good reason. After taking almost six centuries to be built, from 1386 to 1965, the Duomo is the largest church in the Italian Republic and is by far the most-visited tourist attraction in Milan.

Just seeing the Duomo’s façade is enough to take your breath away, but getting a ticket to access the Duomo Terraces and admiring the statues and spires from up close is well worth the additional cost.

Quick tips for Milan

Where to stay | For a budget-friendly stay I recommend Ostello Bello Grande , a highly-rated hostel right next to Milano Centrale with basic dorm rooms, good value private rooms, a full kitchen and even a rooftop terrace. For somewhere fancier the 4* INTOMilan is a popular option, or treat yourself to a room with a Duomo view at Duomo Cathedral View .

Read more about Milan | How to spend two days in Milan

Have an espresso martini in one of the world’s fanciest Starbucks

I know this sounds like a stupid recommendation for Italy but just hear me out for a second! Forget everything you know about this American coffee chain, because the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan is a stylish, upmarket coffee house paying homage to Italy’s espresso culture.

Housed in Palazzo Broggi, a stunning 1901 building on the busy Piazzale Cordusio, the Roastery boasts commercial roasting machines on full display, a delicious menu with wood-fired pizzas and arty desserts, and even an aperitivo bar with cocktails that incorporates Starbucks’ tea and coffee offerings.

Also this is one of the only places in Milan that has free WiFi and won’t get angry at you for spending hours there, so digital nomads, make yourself at home.

Visit the Cinque Terre villages

The kaleidoscopic clifftop villages in the Cinque Terre are one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations, and in a country this beautiful, that’s saying something!

You can see all five villages in a day with a day pass on the train but giving it two days to explore would be significantly less rushed and would let you enjoy the quieter early mornings and evenings when day trippers aren’t there. Staying in the actual villages is expensive as you’d expect, but there’s budget-friendly accommodation available in La Spezia or Levanto (just a short train from the villages).

If you’ve got time, consider a boat cruise along the coast or build up a sweat with a kayak tour .

A must-eat in Cinque Terre: Nessun Dorma is the most famous restaurant along this part of the coast, with terrace dining overlooking Manarola and truly incredible food. Download the Nessun Dorma app and add yourself to the digital queue while exploring the village to avoid waiting in a long line in the heat.

Enjoy pesto pasta in Genoa

It seems as though every city and town in Italy is famous for a specific food, and Genoa is no different. Pesto originated there in the 16th century! This delicious sauce traditionally consists of crushed garlic, basil, pine nuts, Parmesan and olive oil, and it’s (in my opinion) one of the best pasta sauces on the planet.

Genoa is a bit cheaper than Milan, Florence and Rome in terms of accommodation and activities, and the food prices range from cheap and cheerful right through to fine dining, so you can plan your itinerary based on your budget. Many locally-owned trattorias and small restaurants serve up pesto pasta and other Ligurian cuisine for a really fair price, some top-rated ones to add to your list are Trattoria delle Grazie, Sà Pesta and Ristorante Santa Teresa, or head to Pestobene Genova to buy your own pot to take home.

I’m a bit of a pesto fanatic myself so this one is on my own Italy bucket list, hopefully I’ll be able to visit Genoa this year.

Hunt for truffles in Alba

Considered by many to be one of Italy’s gourmet capitals, Alba is an essential addition to any Italy foodie itinerary.

The city specialises in viticulture, precious white truffles and chocolate using hazelnuts from the wider Piedmont region. Ferrero (who produce Nutella and Ferrero Rocher) have their factory here, and you can sometimes smell the chocolate from streets away!

If you fancy the earthy flavours of truffles, the International White Truffle Fair runs from October to December each year (7 October-3 December in 2023) and combines fine dining experiences with cultural shows, cooking lessons, truffle sensory analysis, wine tasting and much more.

Explore Venice on a gondola ride

Some may say gondola rides in Venice are a tourist trap, but I think we can all agree that a Venice trip feels somewhat incomplete without seeing the city from the water.

They have standardised gondola pricing to avoid scammy operators, and you can expect to pay €80 for a 30 minute tour during the day or €100 after 7pm. Gondolas fit up to six people so you can split that cost with others if you want to ask around your hotel/hostel or ask at the gondola departure points.

If you’re travelling solo and want an easy way to book a single spot you can book this tour online for around €30.

See the colourful houses of Burano

Just a short Vaporetto (small ferry) ride from Venice is the colourful island of Burano, famous for the rainbow of painted houses that line the canals. You can catch the #12 Vaporetto from Fondamente Nove for €15 return and you’ll be at Burano in about 45 minutes.

It can get really busy here from about 10am to 4pm with day trippers, so heading there first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon will likely be quieter.

Burano is also famous for its lace, so if you’re collecting souvenirs then you might want to pick up an umbrella, a tablecloth or even a handbag.

Relax lakeside at Lake Como

Channel your inner Hollywood superstar and treat yourself to an extravagant Lake Como getaway, with an endless selection of five star hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from, dreamy gardens to wander around, charming villages to explore and boat trips to take.

Lake Como is a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of Italy’s main cities, so it’s a good stop for a mid-trip chill out or a final getaway at the end of an extended Europe itinerary.

Take the famous Bernina Express into Switzerland

From the quaint alpine village of Tirano right near the Swiss border, you can start one of the most beautiful train journeys in Europe: the Bernina Express .

This iconic red train travels from Tirano to Chur over a four hour, 144km journey that is genuinely so beautiful that you’ll do nothing but stare out the window that entire time. Your trip will take you past vibrant glacial lakes, snowy mountains and charming villages that are straight off a postcard.

You can choose to do the Tirano to Chur journey and then continue your time in Switzerland, or choose the slightly shorter Tirano to St Moritz route (2.5 hours) and get off there, or you could do a return day trip to and from Tirano or even to and from Milan if you don’t mind a long day.

Read more | Is the Bernina Express worth it? The ultimate Bernina Express guide

Where to stay | I love the charming guesthouse Ostello del Castello in Tirano, and once you get to Switzerland I’d recommend spending a night in the epic historic observatory at Randolin’s Berghotel in St Moritz

Sip coffee in Trieste

A lesser known city in Northern Italy’s Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Trieste is an unlikely inclusion on most Italy itineraries, which makes it cheaper and quieter for those lucky enough to have heard about this hidden gem. And if you consider yourself a bit of a coffee connoisseur, I’d highly recommend ensuring you’ve got time to explore Trieste’s unique espresso culture and cafes.

Enjoy the Italian countryside on the cheap

While Tuscany tends to get all the attention when considering a holiday in the Italian countryside, there are some options that are just as beautiful but easier on the wallet in the northern regions of Italy.

I’d recommend looking around the villages within an hour of Verona to find the best value for money. I spent a few nights at Villa Nichesola , a gorgeous manor house on the outskirts of the quiet comune of Colognola ai Colli, which had huge bedrooms, a shared kitchen, beautiful gardens and a pool which would be epic in the warmer months. It was too cold to swim when I visited (in October) but I’m already planning to head back in summer!

Central Italy bucket list

Take a classic tourist shot with the leaning tower of pisa.

Is it a tourist trap? Yes. Is it cool to see in real life? Also yes.

Pisa is easily accessible from Florence as a day trip (consider combining it with medieval Lucca) or as a stop between Cinque Terre and Florence. It’s free to see the tower from the ground but the view from 294 steps up to the top is incredible, particularly over the Battistero di San Giovanni and the Cattedrale di Pisa. It’s €20 for a ticket, you can book online to skip the queue for an additional €6.50 or wait in line to avoid that extra fee.

I’m sure Pisa has plenty more to offer than just the iconic tower, but in my experience it was absolutely rammed with tourists, there were street vendors hassling you to buy souvenirs, and restaurants near the tower were overpriced and average. Just want to prepare you for the reality!

Learn to cook in Florence

There are actually cooking classes available in probably every city in Italy, but I’m recommending the Wanna Be Italiano class in Florence because a) they have a perfect 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor and b) because this is the one I did and I loved it!

The class starts off with a market tour (unless it’s Sunday or a public holiday when the market is closed, when you’ll get extra local delicacies to snack on instead) before kicking off with a local chef teaching you how to make things like tiramisu, fresh pasta and a couple of sauces.

It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Italy’s culinary culture, make new food-loving friends and take some simple recipes home.

TRAVEL TIP: For a budget-friendly place to stay in Florence I absolutely love Yellowsquare hostel . They have comfortable dorm rooms plus spacious private rooms, loads of events to meet other travellers, and even a rooftop pool and sundeck!

Say ciao to Michelangelo’s David

Located at the Galleria dell-Accademia, Michelangelo’s 16th century David masterpiece is possibly the most famous statue in the entire world. It’s considered a symbol of the Renaissance period as well as one of Florence’s most-visited artworks, up there with Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Titian’s Venus of Urbino (both in the Uffizi Gallery).

To visit David it’s best to book gallery tickets in advance , or if tickets are sold out for your date then you might have better luck with a guided tour which includes skip-the-line access .

Line up for Italy’s best sandwich at All’Antico Vinaio

This unassuming hole-in-the-wall eatery serves up some of Italy’s best sandwiches, though you’d never know if not for the long line outside at almost all hours of the day! But I promise you the wait is worth it, they boast a near-impossible 4.6/5 Google rating from more than 32,000 customers.

My favourite sandwich is La Boss, with prosciutto, pecorino cheese, cream of truffle and rocket leaves (drool) but their menu is super varied with seasonal specials too, you might even want to make a few separate trips.

All’Antico Vinaio has expanded from the original Via dei Neri Florence location to another in Florence, two in Milan, one in Rome, one in Torino and even stores in New York and LA, so if you don’t make it to Florence you might be able to try it somewhere else.

Visit another country with a quick trip to San Marino

San Marino is the world’s oldest sovereign state, having been founded way back in 301AD. It’s also tiny, only 60 square kilometres, and is located entirely within Italy. It’s well worth a day trip to find your way through the maze of medieval alleyways, enjoy the expansive views from the towers, and add another country to your list if you’re counting.

Taste test Chianti

Tuscany’s Monti del Chianti region stretches from Florence to Siena, where you’ll find aesthetically-pleasing rows of vines aligned perfectly along the rolling hills that seem to fade into the horizon. It’s basically a computer desktop background.

Chianti is made from the Sangiovese grape and is renowned for its complex, earthy flavours, an ideal pairing for tomato-based Italian dishes like lasagna or pizza, or a simple cured meat and cheese platter.

The best way to experience Chianti would be to do a food and wine tour, like this top-rated Chianti Safari or this day trip from Florence .

Treat yourself to a Tuscan villa holiday

Perhaps one of the dreamiest holiday locations in the whole of Europe, Tuscany has an endless range of villas available to rent, ranging from traditional farmhouses where your money goes far, through to renovated villas with luxe decor and modern amenities.

To make the most of your Euros I’d recommend trying to visit mid-week in the shoulder season (March-April, mid-September-October), where you’ll be able to enjoy mild temperatures, less crowds and more selection.

Some highly-rated Tuscan villas are Borgo Verde and Villa Porsenna for a mid-range budget, or Villa Intera , Il Meriggeto and Villa Liberty Mugello for something more upmarket.

You can see the huge range of Tuscan villas on booking.com >>

Soak your worries away at the Terme di Saturnia hot springs

These therapeutic hot springs in Tuscany’s Maremma region used to fly fairly under the radar until catching the attention of Instagrammers a few years ago, and now they’re certainly no longer a hidden gem. But they’re popular for a reason, they’re gorgeous!

Terme di Saturnia’s mineral-rich water sits at about 37°C, making it a bit too hot for a summer visit but perfect during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). In winter they’d be dreamy too but you’re more at the mercy of unpredictable weather, so be sure to have a Plan B in place in case the rain sets in.

Climb to the top of Torre del Mangia in Siena

Siena’s 102m-tall 14th century tower sits in Piazza del Campo and provides panoramic views across the medieval city’s UNESCO-listed historic centre. Tickets to walk the 400 steps to the top are €10, you get a timed ticket so if you’re only in Siena for a day or two then it’s best to get to the ticket office early to ensure you can get a slot for that day.

Channel Lizzie McGuire with a Vespa tour through Rome

This is what dreams are made of! Book a Vespa tour to see some of Rome’s major landmarks in the most authentic (and time-efficient!) way, riding through cobblestone alleys past tourist hot spots as well as off-the-beaten-track neighbourhoods and hidden gems.

If you’re a confident scooter driver in busy streets then you can also rent your own Vespa to explore at your own pace, or there are even Vespa sidecar tours for travellers who feel a bit uneasy on the back of a bike.

Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain

Legend says that if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain that you will ensure your return to Rome in the future, and the potential consequence of not throwing a coin is just not a risk I’m willing to take. Throw two coins and you’ll fall in love with an Italian, and throw three coins and you’ll be walking down the aisle!

The Trevi Fountain is super busy most of the day, even getting there at sunrise won’t necessarily guarantee a quiet visit as you’ll likely be sharing with professional photographers, couple shoots, Instagrammers and TikTokers. An early morning (before 8am) off season visit is much more likely to bring peace and quiet.

Eat your way through Rome’s Trastevere neighbourhood

My absolute favourite part of Rome is the Trastevere neighbourhood, a bustling food and entertainment hot spot that feels a bit more local and less touristy than many other parts of the city. Here you’ll find authentic trattorias serving up hearty, delicious dishes, funky cocktail bars, boutique shops and a farmers market open daily except for Sundays.

A Trastevere food tour is a great option to experience the best of the area, or if you choose to visit independently then please do yourself a favour and add Donkey Punch to your itinerary for lunch. It’s a quirky sandwich shop where you can design your own divine sandwich using fresh, local ingredients.

Get one of the best views in the city from Altare Della Patria

I reckon Altare Della Patria is one of Rome’s most underrated and best value experiences, and it should be on everyone’s Rome itinerary. Also known as the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, the Typewriter or the Wedding Cake (named by those who didn’t like the architecture), this colossal building is impossible to miss if you’re walking from the Pantheon or Trevi Fountain to the Colosseum.

But what many travellers don’t realise is that you can easily and cheaply visit the top of the monument and soak up a superb panoramic view of the historic centre of Rome, including the Colosseum itself.

Tickets up the elevator are only €7 at the door (don’t book online through a third party or you’ll pay three times the price) or you can access the terrace for free via stairs inside the monument building if you don’t mind a bit of a climb.

Marvel at the works of art in the Vatican

The Vatican is a must-visit destination for any travellers interested in art, history and culture, with an extensive collection of masterpieces sitting in its 7km worth of art gallery and museum corridors.

The Vatican’s main attraction is without a doubt the Sistine Chapel, adorned by Michelangelo’s magnificent frescoes on the ceiling and behind the altar. The Gallery of Maps is also one you can’t miss, featuring intricately painted maps of Italy dating back to the 16th century.

Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance, and if you’re keen to really understand more about the Vatican and its museums then a guided tour with skip-the-line access is a good idea.

See the (not-so-)secret view through the Aventine Keyhole

The most unique view of Rome can be found up Aventine Hill, through a mysterious keyhole in the gate of the Priory of the Knights of Malta. Take a peep through the keyhole and spot the dome of St Peter’s Basilica perfectly framed by the trimmed hedges beyond the locked gate.

It’s totally free too, you might just need to wait in line for a short while until it’s your turn to see the view.

Wander the gardens of Villa d’Este

When Rome’s chaos gets too much for you, escape the city and head to nearby Tivoli, where you’ll find the opulent 16th century Villa d’Este and its UNESCO-listed gardens. Often named as one of the best Renaissance gardens in the world, these gardens boast more than 500 fountains, terraces lined with sculptures, and stunning scenery every way you turn.

One of the highlights of Villa d’Este is the Fountain of the Organ, which has water jets that shoot water through pipes to play musical notes.

Southern Italy bucket list

Eat pizza in the birthplace of pizza, naples.

Another foodie experience for your Italy bucket list is eating pizza in the place where it is said to have been invented. Pizza’s actual history is a bit up for debate, as a number of ancient cultures are known to have eaten flatbreads with toppings, but modern pizza has evolved from Neopolitan flatbread street food dishes from the 18th and 19th centuries.

These days Naples is home to some of the best-reviewed pizzerias in the world, including Gino e Toto Sorbillo, Pizzeria Del Popolo and La Masardona.

I did an incredible food tour in Naples which included loads of local treats like a classic pizza, fried pizza, limoncello, gelato and much, much more.

Visit the ruins on Pompeii

History buffs, this one’s for you. Head to the ancient city of Pompeii for a glimpse of the past, it was buried by the aruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79AD and these days offers a chance to see incredibly well-preserved buildings, frescoes and the layout of the city.

It’s best visited with a guided tour so you can get your bearings and understand what you’re looking at.

Savour some limoncello after dinner in Sorrento

Sorrento is a charming coastal town on the Sorrentine Peninsula, known as the gateway to the magical Amalfi Coast as well as being the home of lemons, limoncello and lemon granita. You’ll notice the whole coast in this area pays homage to the lemon, but Sorrento in particular is known for its lemons.

Pick up a bottle of limoncello from a local supplier, enjoy a sip of limoncello after your dinner or taste test the region’s best ingredients with an oil, cheese and limoncello tour .

Spend a night in Positano

One of the most romantic destinations in Italy, Positano is straight off a postcard, with pastel-coloured houses cascading down the hill to the Mediterranean Sea. Though many tourists choose to stay in cheaper villages along the Amalfi Coast and make the journey to Positano for a day trip, if you are able to splurge on a night you’ll be treated to the late evening and early morning with far fewer tourists.

Perhaps the most sought-after hotel for an overnight stay is Le Sirenuse , a elegant yet homely boutique hotel with an equally incredible restaurant. The hotel rates start from €800 per night in the shoulder season but can reach €2800 a night in the middle of summer, and they (unsurprisingly) book out months in advance. This is proposal, honeymoon or big birthday material!

See the Amalfi Coast from a boat trip

The Amalfi Coast boasts some of the most stunning scenery of any coast in the world, so it’s no surprise that the best way to experience it is by boat. You can take an Amalfi Coast boat trip from any of the seaside villages, spending anywhere from a few hours to a whole day marvelling at the steep cliffs, discovering hidden grottoes and swimming in crystal-clear water.

There are plenty of small group tours you can join, or if you’d like a private trip you can book your own boat and skipper and enjoy a day exploring at your own pace. If there’s four or more of you then I’d definitely recommend considering a private boat as it sometimes ends up being cheaper than booking four spots on a shared tour.

Do the Path of the Gods hike

If you’re an active relaxer, the Path of the Gods is another great way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s scenery. This epic 8km hiking trail winds through the hills above the clifftop villages, from Bomerano (near the town of Amalfi) to Nocelle, offering unmatched views of the coast and beaches.

It takes most travellers 4-5 hours to complete the trail, longer in summer due to heat and big crowds. Be sure to slap on some sunscreen, wear a sunhat, take water and look forward to a lemon granita at the end.

Take a day trip to the Isle of Capri

The Isle of Capri is only 10km² but it punches well above its weight in terms of tourist offerings, and it’s one place you can’t miss when visiting Italy’s southwest coast. Day trippers can get here easily from any towns along the Amalfi Coast, Salerno, Sorrento or Naples.

Real talk: Capri’s Blue Grotto might be the most famous natural attraction but in my opinion it’s seriously overrated and a bit scammy, you pay for a group tour to get to the grotto, move to a smaller boat to get into the cave which costs €14 for entrance and the guides push you for a €5-€10 tip per person, you have a few minutes in there and have to tip more if you want to swim.

Instead: The better alternative is to do a tour that takes you to other grottoes like the Grotto Verde and Grotto Bianca.

Sightsee in a unique way with the Monte Solaro chairlift

One tourist attraction in Capri that is totally worth it on the other hand is the Monte Solaro chairlift, a single seat chairlift that takes you to the highest point on the island (Monte Solaro) where you’ll get to enjoy panoramic views of the island and beyond.

Tickets are €9 one way if you want to walk down afterwards, or €12 return.

Explore the Grotte di Castellana limestone cave system

Puglia’s Grotte di Castellana caves are a fascinating underground experience to add to your Italy bucket list. The limestone cave network was discovered in 1938, with 3km of tunnels (1.2km that you can reach by tour), thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, and millions of years of history behind them.

Book a cave tour to learn all about the geology and history behind this striking natural attraction.

Stay in a trullo in Alberobello

Trulli (trullo is singular) are traditional houses in Puglia, particularly in the town of Alberobello. They’re kind of beehive-esque, with white limestone walls and conical roofs made by laying stones in circles until they meet at the top.

There are more than 1000 trulli in Alberobello, and many of these have been well-reserved and are used as shops, guesthouses, restaurants or family homes.

Spending a night in a trullo is a quintessential Puglia bucket list experience, you can check out the trulli available to book on booking.com .

Admire Baroque architecture in Lecce

Lovingly known as the “Florence of the South”, Lecce’s Baroque architecture and rich culture make it a bucket list destination for any travellers with an interest in art, design and history. The city’s historic centre is densely packed with must-sees, from medieval castles to ancient Roman ruins to intricately decorated churches.

It’s not as popular as the northern and central Italian cities but not due to quality, only due to infrastructure and ease of travel. If you’re spending some time in southern Italy then at least 2-3 days should be set aside to discover Lecce’s treasures.

Get amongst Bari Vecchia

Combining the best of Italian cuisine with ocean-to-table seafood, Bari is a gorgeous seaside city to add to your Italian itinerary. As the capital of the Puglia region it’s a bustling hub of food, drink, entertainment and culture, with a buzzing student and youth scene for those looking for a party vibe.

Bari’s Old Town (known as Bari Vecchia in Italian) is particularly impressive, with a confusing but alluring maze of historic alleyways connecting churches, castles and piazzas.

Dine at the famous Grotta Palazzese Hotel

A once-in-a-lifetime dining experience if only for the enchanting setting, the Grotta Palazzese is a restaurant (at a hotel of the same name) tucked into the side of a limestone cliff on the coast of Polignano a Mare, just south of Bari. The restaurant has been used for parties since the 1700s!

Unsurprisingly a meal at Grotta Palazzese is pretty expensive, prices start at €195 for the smaller degustation menu or a la carte menu, with drinks additional to that. Ouch! Reviews for the food aren’t great either, they have a 3.5/5 on TripAdvisor which is not a good sign for that price level, and suggests that you’re truly just paying for the location.

Is it an Instagram tourist trap or a genuinely worthwhile splurge? Let me know if you try it out.

Sleep in a cave hotel in Matera

Move over Cappadocia, Matera is a rocky hilltop city famous for its cave dwellings or ‘sassi’ in Italian. These sassi were inhabited for millennia, with evidence of human settlement dating back to 9000BC, making Matera the third-oldest continually inhabited settlement on the globe. Unbelievable!

In the mid-20th century Matera was actually known as the ‘shame of Italy’ due to its high levels of poverty and relocation of citizens which left the caves in total disarray, but the 1990s brought preservation, renovation and promotion, including becoming UNESCO-listed in 1993.

Since then it’s become a more popular stop on Italy itineraries, with plenty for travellers to see and do, although it’s still fairly low key compared to many other Italian hot spots. Book a night in a cave hotel , immerse yourself in the culinary scene, do a city tour with a local and experience a different side of Italy.

Sunbathe on sandy beaches in Tropea

Often named as one of the best beach destinations on the mainland, Tropea is an essential inclusion on any sun-lovers Italy bucket list.

Cool off in the turquoise water, book a sunbed to soak up some rays (or chill out on the pure white sand for free), or experience the gastronomy of Calabria, from seafood pastas to spicy ‘nduja sausage to sweet red onions.

Italian islands bucket list

Beach hop along sardinia’s costa smeralda.

If it’s an Italian beach holiday you’re after, you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere that beats Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda. The beaches here are plentiful and varied, from hidden coves that are only accessible from the ocean to upscale beach resorts fit for a luxury getaway.

One absolute must-do during your trip to Sardinia is a boat tour around the La Maddalena Archipelago , a group of protected islands off the northern coast of Sardinia with charming fishing villages, secluded swimming spots and unspoiled scenery.

Watch lava flow from Mount Stromboli

One of Europe’s few active volcanoes, Mount Stromboli is a popular destination for adventurers thanks to its constant eruptions and consistent lava flow.

By day you can hike to the top of the volcano for an up close look at where the fiery magma reaches Stromboli’s summit, and by night you can see the glowing lava from afar .

Keep in mind that active volcanoes are, by definition, currently erupting or likely to erupt in future, and large eruptions can happen without warning. New Zealand’s White Island/Whakaari erupted in 2019 while tourists were doing an island hike and 16 people died, with more severely injured. This isn’t to scare you out of visiting Stromboli, many tourists choose to visit each day, but it’s important to be aware of the risks of any adventure tourism like this.

See ancient ruins at Sicily’s Valley of the Temples

Sicily’s Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy. One of the valley’s most well-known landmarks is the Temple of Concordia from 440BC, which is considered to be one of the best-preserved temple ruins in the world.

The whole island of Sicily has ancient ruins dotted around it from a range of eras, thanks to the fact that the island has been inhabited by numerous civilisations over the centuries, making it a must-visit for any history buff’s Italy bucket list.

Get lost in the maze of alleyways in Ortigia

Ortigia is a small island off Sicily’s east coast, considered the old town of Syracuse and connected to modern Syracuse by a few short bridges. Wander through the organised mess of walkways, discover local arts and crafts in hole-in-the-wall boutiques, find a sunbathing spot along the rocks near Forte Vigliena, or indulge in Ortigia’s culinary scene.

I haven’t made it to Ortigia (or anywhere on Sicily) yet unfortunately but this is at the top of my personal Italy bucket list, and I hope to visit in this summer!

Feel the sand between your toes at Spiaggia dei Conigli

Consistently ranked as one of the top ten beaches of the world, Spiaggia dei Conigli on the island Lampedusa is the final Italy bucket list inclusion in this (very long!) blog post.

The protected nature reserve offers pristine beaches, abundant underwater life and unbelievably clear water, with the chance to see dolphins, turtles and tropical fish while snorkelling or diving.

Mamma mia, that’s a lot of info about the best things to do in Italy! I hope this Italy bucket list blog has given you some inspiration for your upcoming Italy adventure, and that you’ll be able to tick off loads of the epic experiences I’ve listed here.

I’m sure there are plenty of Italy adventures and activities that I’ve left off this list, it would easily be 30,000 words long even if I wrote about all my incredible Italy experiences, but I have had to select the top 50-ish Italy bucket list experiences as a starting point.

If there’s something truly incredible you think I need to add to this blog then please let me know in the comments.

MORE ITALY & EUROPE BLOG POSTS:

• The ultimate two month Europe itinerary
• My exact Eurail itinerary (15 days in two months)
• The perfect itinerary for two days in Milan
• Is the Bernina Express worth it? A guide to the Tirano-St Moritz train
• A complete guide on how to use a Eurail Pass
• Is a Eurail Pass worth it? A breakdown of my costs

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Europe , Italy , Travel

The only italy travel guide you’ll ever need.

This is the best Italy travel guide to help you plan your trip with ease and ensure you see the best that Italy has to offer, safely and efficiently! 

This post contains affiliate links

Why Go To Italy

There are many reasons to visit Italy. I feel like I shouldn’t really have to explain myself. I mean, have you ever had gelato ? Top reason! Ok, not really, but it’s pretty high up there for me.

Italy is a country that I just keep going back to. I don’t necessarily plan it that way, but it just seems to happen! There is just so much to see and do in this wonderful country that it feels like a different trip to Italy every time I visit.

Italy is such a large country, full of many different people, history, cultures, and landscapes, that has given us so much historically, artistically, musically, and more. There’s a reason that Italy is called the birthplace of the Renaissance.

The museums in Italy are some of the best in the world, boasting the most famous artistic pieces known to man.

Add all that culture (and gelato) to the fact that Italy has nearly 5,000 miles of coastline and gorgeous beaches, visiting Italy is a no-brainer!

Here are just a few reasons we love visiting Italy:

• World class museums
• Amazing Food
• Beautiful Scenery
• Historical Importance
• Friendly People
• Affordable Prices
• Gelato (need I say more)

Obviously, there are so many more reasons to visit Italy, but this should be enough to entice you! It’s an amazing place that you must see, but it’s good to know all you can before you go. This Italy travel guide will help you find all the information you need for your trip.

If you’d like more information about planning your trip, join our Italy Travel Planning Facebook Group

Here are some fun facts about Italy

• Pasta has been around since the 4th Century BCE
• The fork was made popular in Italy
• All 3 of Europe’s volcanos are located in Italy
• Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus were both from Italy
• The country of Italy is only 153 years old
• Pizza was invented in Italy
• The Vatican is the smallest country in the world
• There are 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy
• Italy has almost 5,000 miles of coastline
• Around 3,000 Euros are thrown into the Trevi fountain each day. It’s given to charity.

The Best Books About Italy to Get You Inspired

I’m a huge reader and love reading almost as much as I love traveling! I have read so many books about Italy that have inspired me to visit and enjoy all that is has to offer. These are the books that have inspired me:

From Sand and Ash

This is one of those novels that really sticks with you. It’s set in Rome during WWII and follows the lives of Christians and Jews as the Catholic church works to save and hide Jews inside churches and convents. It was a fascinating story and there are so few WWII books set in Italy, so I loved hearing this perspective.

Love & Gelato

So this is definitely a YA book, but the story is sweet (no pun intended) and it has a good message. It’s set in Florence and the Tuscan countryside and is about a girl who moves from America into her new life after her mother dies.

Beneath a Scarlet Sky

I don’t think I’ve ever read a more fascinating book based on reality! The whole time I was reading it, I kept thinking “no way, this can’t be real,” but it was. It’s the true story of an Italian man during WWII who helped smuggle Jews across the Alps and into Switzerland. He was also a driver for a leader in the Nazi party and worked as a spy.

Eat, Pray, Love

This is really such a classic that will make you want to travel anywhere, but her time in Italy seemed especially precious!

Four Seasons in Rome

This is a great book set in Rome (obviously) and is a memoir by Anthony Doerr, the author of “All the Light We Cannot See” (a novel set in France). Anthony shares about his year in Rome with his wife and twin babies. If you’re traveling to Rome with kids, this is a must read!

Inferno 

All of Dan Brown’s books make me want to travel, but Inferno is set in Florence and is particularly fascinating.  I learned a lot about the art and history of Florence from this book.

Angels & Demons

Another great Dan Brown book, this time set in Rome, will teach you about art out in plain sight in the city of Rome. It mentions many fountains and sculptures that you may have previously just walked by.  

If you want to see a list off 100 inspirational books that will make you want to travel the world, read here.

I love browsing the internet for advice on how to travel in Italy, but sometimes a tangible book can be a beautiful thing. Here are my favorite Italy travel books:

Rick Steves Italy 2019

I’ve always been a big fan of Rick Steves. Especially since he specializes in all things Europe and keeps his guides up to date! His Italy guide is top notch and once you know where you’re going in Italy you can look into his more specific guides.

Lonely Planet Italy Travel Guide

Lonely Planet books are always a safe bet! The information is good,  accurate, and kept up to date.

Getting to Italy

It’s a great time to visit Italy right now. With so many cheap flights to Italy, it’s much more affordable!  A flight that would have cost you a thousand dollars 3 years ago now costs under $500! I keep telling everyone I know, if you’ve wanted to go to Italy, but couldn’t afford it, the time is now!

The cheapest time to fly to Italy will be during the offseason like January and February, but you can still find killer deals to Italy during the rest of the year. I flew from San Francisco to Rome for $400 in August last year. I recently found a flight from New York to Rome for $200. If you want to hear my best tips and tricks about finding dirt cheap flights read this.

When is the Best Time to Visit Italy

The best time to go to Italy, in my opinion, is when the flights are the cheapest ! That’s just how I operate! But in all honesty, I think the best time to travel to Italy is during the shoulder season.

If you don’t know what shoulder season is, it’s the months before and after peak season which, for most destinations in the Northern Hemisphere, will be September to October and April to May . This is generally the best time of year to go to Italy for several reasons.

What Month has the Best Weather in Italy?

I think the best time of year to visit Italy also really depends on where you go in Italy. As mentioned before, Italy’s climate is as diverse as it’s culture.

If you’re going to the Dolomites in January you will have a very different experience than if you go to Sicily in January. Winter in Italy can be very different depending on where you go.

Summer in Italy will generally be hot, especially in cities like Venice, Florence, and Rome. Summer in Italy might be a great choice for the Dolomites, or the northern lakes of Italy like Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore where the mountain climates are more temperate and you have access to swimming and boating!

I find Italy in September really nice all over the country. You still have the warmth that you imagine Italy always has and all the tourist attractions are still open, but the crowds are much lighter thanks to traditional school schedules!

Spring in Italy is beautiful with blossoming wisteria abounding, but you are guaranteed to have less predictable weather, which usually means more rain and also spring break crowds.

When is the best time to visit Italy for Budget Travel?

I would say that for budget travelers, the best time to visit Italy is during the winter months, January and February in particular. Flights will be cheaper, hotels and Airbnb will be cheaper, and transportation will be cheaper.

But keep in mind this may not be the warm gelato-eating, sundress-wearing, beach-going kind of trip you may have dreamed of. So keep an eye out for good flights, and try to compromise with your time and money.

The short answer is that there is no best month to travel to Italy. Every time of year has something different to offer. Do your best to plan for affordable flights and lodging while picking a time that works for your schedule and your dream trip.

If you’re looking for ways to save money for travel, read this. And if you want to learn how to save up to afford your dream trip, read this.

How Much is a Trip to Italy Going to Cost Me?

If you’re traveling to Italy on a budget, it’s important to remember that traveling can really cost as much or as little as you want it to. That’s the beauty of this country. There is something for everyone, including something for everyone’s budgets!

How much to budget for a trip to Italy?

• Flights: $300-600 depending on the time of year and your location
• Lodging: $50-$200/night depending on your budget
• Transportation: $200-$400 for the entire trip depending on the length
• Food: $20-$100/day depending on your taste, standards, and size of your group
• Gelato: $20/day (oh wait, that’s just me! But gelato costs between 2-5 euros depending on where you are, so plan accordingly and bring cash.)

What to Pack for Italy

If you’re wondering What to wear in Italy, don’t stress. Packing for Italy is pretty simple, especially if you’re going in the warmer months. I recommend packing a few sundresses, pants, a light jacket, and very good walking shoes. Don’t forget to pack your Italy power adapter, as you’ll find two different types of plugs in Italy.

Here’s a basic list of what to pack for Italy, but if you want a more in-depth list, you can see what we packed for our Italy backpacking trip here.

Italy Power Adapter

You’ll want to be sure you have a good international adapter, but I also like having a specific Italy power adapter because many old Italian homes will have two separate kinds of outlets and I’ve found that the international adapter doesn’t work as well in the old Italian ones.

Walking Shoes

If there’s one thing you can count on in Italy, it’s that you’ll be doing a lot of walking. And you’ll certainly need to if you plan on eating gelato every day! Italy is covered in hills and cobblestone streets, which make it so beautiful, but also rather difficult to walk through at times. You’ll want to be sure to have some good walking shoes.

If you’re visiting Italy in the summer, these sandals are amazing! I’ve had them for a few years now and they are comfortable to walk in for miles, but also cute enough to be worn with a sundress at church.

And if you’re visiting Italy in the winter or if you’ll be doing some hiking, these are the most amazing boots ever! I’ve had them for years and the best part is that they have a lifetime warranty from Eddie Bauer. I’ve walked through the souls of these boots after a few years and traded them in for new ones. They’re super comfortable and totally waterproof!

You’ll need a good daypack if you’re carrying camera equipment and water around on all your activities in Italy. We love this Osprey daypack.

I’m still so baffled that these beauties ever went out of style! They are great for traveling and for allowing you to be hands-free, which is so important if you’ve got little kids to look after! It also puts the weight of your bag on your hips instead of your back and shoulders which will already be overworked from hauling your luggage all over Italy.

I love having a big fanny pack with everything I need accessible in front of me.

But I also love this smaller one for excursions that require less stuff!

Portable WiFi

You’ll need some good WiFi when you go to Italy so that you can get around easily with your maps and stay in touch with your travel group. We love using Skyroam ! You can use the code WANDERLUSTCREW for a special discount.

Portable Phone Charger

I cannot go anywhere without my portable phone charger! I love the myCharge line because the cords are all built in! I just bought one that has USBC connections so I can even charge my laptop with it!

I’m in love with Sony mirrorless cameras. They are so much lighter and smaller than DSLRs, but provide the same quality. The Sony a6000 is a great starter mirrorless camera!

Staying Safe in Italy

Italy is generally a safe country. It’s always wise to be aware of any scams or high pickpocketing areas, and you must always be on your guard, especially when traveling solo or with kids. Be sure to read my 50 tips for traveling Europe like a pro.

Where to Stay in Italy

There are hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and home rentals all over Italy and they are all pretty affordable. We’ve stayed in some seriously amazing places in Italy!

We stayed in Lake Como for two months in a  huge gorgeous house with a view of the lake   for $1,200 USD/month. I stayed in a beautiful  Airbnb on a lemon grove with an ocean view   in Sorrento where our host made us a homemade breakfast every morning including hand made fig tarts that I still dream about!

Our personal favorite way to stay in Italy, especially as a family, is with Airbnb. We’ve saved thousands of dollars by using Airbnb. If you’ve never tried it, you should!  Here is a $40 coupon for your first stay.

Read this guide to using Airbnb before you even start looking for where to stay in Italy.

We’ve also had good luck with hotels in Italy. We stayed at an amazing hotel in Rom e right on the Piazza Navona where the bed lifted up to reveal a spa-sized bathtub with jets for under $100 USD/night. Another of our favorite hotels was one that opened up to a magnificent view of the Colosseum. There is something for everyone in Italy.

You can find some of our favorite hotels in Italy here.

The Best Places to Visit in Italy – Where should I go?

Italy is a huge country by European standards. It’s around the same size as the state of California. It’s tough to know where to go in Italy: the ancient ruins of Rome, the museums of Florence, the canals of Venice, or maybe something a little more unique and remote.

The options are endless and you can really have any kind of Italy vacation depending on your preference. Choosing where to go in Italy is tough, but   this list of the best places to visit in Italy should help.

These are some of the best cities to visit in Italy and some of my personal favorites:

Rome is also a great place for families. With all of the museums and ancient ruins all over town it’s a great opportunity for kids to learn some history while having a gelato! Read my  guide to Rome for families here.

Rome is also a great jumping off point for anywhere else in Italy. Most affordable flights will take you to Rome, so even if you only have a short time there, read about what to do with one day in Rome.

Cinque Terre

Getting Around Italy

Once you’ve purchased your flights to Italy and booked your lodging in Italy it’s time to start planning your transportation between your Italy destinations. There are many ways to get around Italy including cars, trains, bikes, planes, and even boats.

Train Travel in Italy

One of the big reasons I keep coming back to Italy is that train travel in Italy is so affordable and fairly easy to use if you know what you’re doing. Don’t go to Italy without reading my guide to train travel in Italy! I truly think this is the best way to travel in Italy!

Driving in Italy

Driving in Italy is not like driving in the United States. It’s not the worst place I’ve ever driven, but they definitely have their own set of rules. Just be very cautious and aware of other drivers, and get the full insurance on your rental car through the rental company or through your credit card company if they offer that.

I’ve rented cars in many foreign countries and have never had to show an international drivers permit until I tried to rent once in Milan.   It has not happened to me again since, but it’s good to read the fine print when you book a rental car, or you can just go into AAA and pick up an international driving permit for around $20. You don’t need to take a test or anything.  

The Best Things to do in Italy

Now that you’ve decided on your destinations, accommodations, and how you’ll get around, it’s time to think about what to do in Italy! The options are nearly endless, but I’m going to list my favorite activities in Italy:

• Take a train ride
• Ride on a Vespa
• Take a Cooking Class
• Spend time on the beach
• Eat gelato every day (read my guide to finding the best Gelato in Italy here )
• Try all the food
• Speak some Italian
• Explore ancient ruins
• Take a gondola ride
• Take a hike

Italy Itineraries

If you’re not sure where to go and would like some Italy vacation ideas, I’ve put together some of the best Italy itinerary options . Sometimes the best way to see Italy is with a set itinerary that means you don’t have to put too much effort into the planning.

I hope this has helped answer some of your questions about visiting Italy and I hope you’re feeling more ready to start planning your own trip. Whatever you choose to do and wherever you choose to go, you are going to love this amazing country! If you need help planning your trip to Italy, please feel free to reach out! I do free trip planning and would love to help you! You can email me or get in touch on Facebook or Instagram

If you loved this, please pin it!

Wanderlust Crew

3 thoughts on “ the only italy travel guide you’ll ever need ”.

I would like some literature about Italy sent to myhouse

Hi Sarah, my itineraries are only available as digital downloads right now. There are essential links that you will need on the guides so this is why they aren’t available on paper, sorry. Let me know if you have any questions. You can email me [email protected]

I LOVE Italy and can’t wait to go back! Go away Covid! Your photos and page are awesome. Check out some of my Italy pics and trips at simplyjolayne.com.

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Home » Europe » Italy » Itinerary

Italy Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

You are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime to one the world’s most vibrant countries, with an array of attractions and some of the suavest locals in Europe! Every step you take in this fabulous country will be filled with beauty, art, and fresh excitement. Italy is an absolute hub for tourists, and it is easy to see what brings so many people from around the world to this country!

Italy has become known for its luxurious villas, delicious wines, Mediterranean seas, white sand beaches, and genius architecture. There is so much on offer in this country, and so many marvelous places to visit, that it can become difficult to plan your trip to such a country thriving with scenic adventure! It might be easier to ask yourself what not to do, instead of what to do – as every stretch of Italy is inviting and waiting to be explored!

Our Italy trip planner will ease the stress of navigating your way and finding the best spots to enjoy during your travels to this cultural and magnificent part of the world! From ancient temples to luminescent blue seas, you will be spoilt for choice!

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•  Best Time To Visit Italy

Where To Stay In Italy

Italy itinerary, day 1 itinerary in italy, day 2 itinerary in italy, day 3 and beyond, day trips from italy, staying safe in italy, faq on italy itinerary,   best time to visit italy.

When is the best time to visit Italy ? has some of the most welcoming weather in the world! Every season is magnificent for a vacation in Italy , and this is something that makes the country even more beautiful. There are sunny and dry summers that can reach high temperatures, but the cool Mediterranean seashores are just so exquisite, making summer still very enjoyable.

Winters are wet and cool, and the mountain landscapes get lots of snowfall. The Dolomites, as well as the whole of the Alps, become a dream come true to snow-sport lovers. It is the perfect time to visit for one incredibly scenic ski trip!

Some of the best seasons to visit are between April to May, and September to October. During these phases, the sun is out but moderate, making it ideal to chill and sightsee! June to August is the peak visiting season, so prices skyrocket as do the temperatures.

Do check out our Italy packing list which will help you to pack and dress effectively whatever time of year you decide to visit.

Italy’s neighborhoods still encapsulate so much of this country’s rich heritage! There are so many upbeat, scenic, and often romantic cities to stay in when you go to Italy. Every neighborhood has something different to offer, but the most common theme is olden-day buildings, unique structures, friendly people, and lots of funky restaurants!

Choosing where to stay in Italy obviously depends on what exactly you want to see.

Trastevere is found in Rome and is a historical city that has become known for having narrow, cobblestone alleyways, as well as beautiful medieval structures. This neighborhood has a calm atmosphere and is found along the banks of the Tiber River. The streets are full of boutiques, old-fashioned stores, eccentric cafes, and breathtaking architecture! Nightlife in this part of Italy is very vibrant and breaks the more relaxed mood of daytime. Rome is home to some of the best festivals in Italy. One of the best historical things to see whilst venturing Trastevere is the famous basilica churches! Some of the best hostels in Rome are found here.

Piazza Delle Erbe is an extremely charming part of fair Verona! Buildings from the Renaissance line this popular neighborhood, and there are many Greek-God statues to be admired during your visit here. If you want to know where life is happening, then you will find your answer in Piazza Delle Erbe’s Plaza, where there are shops, restaurants, and plenty of stalls! Here you get the unique opportunity to experience a cup of delicious coffee whilst viewing the 13th-century Madonna Verona in the center of this plaza.

Cannaregio is located in ‘the sinking city’ of Venice, and is one of the most populated neighborhoods in the city! Here you can walk through Romanesque-style narrow streets, purchase the best-baked goods, enjoy the markets and check out some of the local churches. As Venice was one of the first Jewish ghettos in Europe, it is fascinating to take some time out to see the Museum of Jewish Art and the Judaica shops!

Check out one of the following neighborhood guides for some of our favorite Italian cities!

Cinque Terre

Amalfi Coast

Best Hostel in Italy – Generator Rome

One of the very best hostels in Italy is the Generator Rome. Discovery historical and ancient backstreets, and find yourself close to hubs that offer street culture, art, and amazing food! The Generator Rome is only a short walking distance to the Roma Termini station, as well as one of the best attractions, The Colosseum. The interior design of this hostel is outstanding and adds a special touch to your stay.

Best Budget Hotel in Italy – Camping Village Jolly

As well as being affordable, this hotel has a swimming pool, and the staff have lots of insider information which they offer at the reception desk. You can buy your fresh groceries at the store on-site, and even lounge for a drink at the bar after a long day or have yourself a tasty ice cream. If you feel peckish at night, then the à la carte restaurant is perfect for you to have an easy dinner!

Best Luxury Hotel in Italy – Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

Situated amongst some of the most gorgeous mountain landscapes, and also opposite the Greek Theatre, the Belmond is in one of the most perfect places for a lavish trip! Taormina’s Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo has mesmerizing panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Sicilian Coast. 

You can also treat yourself at the spa, and sunbathe at the pool. It features an outdoor pool, and spa. Some of the suites also have magnificent views of the sea! Other suites have a view of the hotel gardens so you can capture the essence of paradise whilst looking out at the magnolias, cypress and palm trees. Everything you can dream of is provided here at this 5-star hotel!

Curious to learn more ? You can find epic accommodations in Taormina neighborhoods . You’re sure to have the best stay!

Using trains is by far the cheapest and most easy way to travel in Italy, and many of the major cities are connected to one another. Italian high-speed trains are operated by both Trenitalia and Italo. These trains link  Turin, Bologna, Florence, Naples, Salerno, Milan, and Rome.

You can also rent a car during your stay. EU driving licences are valid but otherwise, you will need to get your hands on an International Driving Permit, and it’s a good idea to keep your original Driver’s License with you too. If you want to rent a bike instead, then that’s also a good idea and your permit will work for those too!

Considering that Italy is made up of 116,000 square miles, with 20 regions (two of which are islands, Sardinia and Sicily) then flying from either north to south, or south to north is much more time saving and sometimes even cheaper! Air Italy is one of the more affordable flight companies that you can use

When walking around Italy, just be sure to have your camera and comfortable walking shoes. The streets are remarkably scenic, so walking from place to place will be an adventure in itself! This is a really awesome way to enjoy the street stalls and meet locals.

The Sistine Chapel | The Pantheon | The Siena Cathedral | The Leaning Tower of Pisa | The River Arno

OK so this Day 1 itinerary is very ambitious and has been designed for people who are short on time but not on cash. To get this itinerary done you will need to start early and finish late. You will need a personal car to get you from Rome to Sienna to Pisa and will need to pay to skip the line to get to the Sistine Chapel.  To complete it, you will need to keep moving.

Ideally, you would split this over 2 days.

Stop 1 – The Sistine Chapel

• Why it’s awesome: Michelangelo created jaw-dropping paintings on the large ceilings and the tall walls of this Vatican site!
• Cost: Entrance Fee is €15 ($17)
• Food Recommendation: Get yourself a wonderfully crispy pizza from Alice Pizza! You will get value for money and enjoy premium square slices. As the originators of the phenomenon of pizza, no other country does it better.

The world-famous chapel showcases commissioned art pieces from Pope Julius II, and Michelangelo himself painted the vault of the chapel! The creative genius is responsible for most of the in-depth and awe-inspiring paintings that adorn The Sistine Chapel, and he took years upon years to complete them, from 1508 to 1512 to be exact.

Michelangelo presented original and unprecedented art that understandably revolutionized the world of western art from that day forward! These frescoes are extraordinary and capture the soul of Italy’s religious history, whilst beguiling viewers from all over the world! Art critics have declared Michelangelo’s iconic work as being one of the top works in the history of painting.  The massive size of the figures painted on the ceiling and the challenge of applying paint to a curved surface have made these frescos an astounding and exceptional creation!

High Renaissance artwork, a breathtaking chapel, and insurmountable historical lineage all make The Sistine Chapel a treasure trove of brilliant site seeing and a perfect way to begin your unforgettable journey of Italy!

Day 1/Stop 2 – The Pantheon

• Why it’s awesome: The Pantheon shows off Rome’s most incredible and genius interior architecture!
• Cost: Free entrance
• Food Recommendation: Have a lovely and hearty meal at The Pantheon Restaurant, Di Rienzo. Sit and relax whilst enjoying a glass of wine, we suggest ordering the Spaghetti with Clams for an authentic taste of Italian flavor!

Roman architecture has been renowned for its ability to withstand the years while maintaining the original structure, and The Pantheon is a prime example of the brilliance of Roman architecture! This monument has been standing for over two thousand years and, despite its ancient age, it is still standing tall – even though the gilded bronze roof tiles were removed by Pope Gregory III to be used for cannons and to create an altar in St Peter’s Church!

 The Pantheon has also survived a fire in 80 AD and was rebuilt in a way that provides us with an insight into the complex and high technical mastery of Roman builders. The most prevalent feature of The Pantheon is its 43-meter dome, which is a superior accomplishment in Roman interior architecture and is suspended from supports that are hidden inside the walls. Talk about mysterious!

The 9-meter central opening in the dome is The Pantheon’s only light source, creating an ambient atmosphere. The Romans created this structure in a way that both the height and the diameter are the same proportion, creating a sort of architectural harmony in the building.

The gardens have been used as a burial place for the Italian kings and other famous Italians, such as the painter Raphael.

You will be immersed in an endless display of ancient Roman beauty and architectural prestige!

Insider Tip: Be careful of the floors when it’s been raining, as they get very slippery!

If you need some ideas for accommodation in Rome, consider checking out our guide on the best vacation rentals in Italy .

Day 1/Stop 3 – The Siena Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: The Siena Cathedral is a marvel, built entirely of marble and complete with golden touches!
• Cost: Entrance fee is €5 – €8 ($6-$9)
• Food Recommendation: The Ristorante Numero Unico offers scrumptious meals and scenic settings. Have yourself a meal packed with different flavors, served with a beautiful presentation! The T-bone steak is one of their best and most popular dishes.

  A visit to Siena’s ancient and gothic cathedral is an adventure in itself! Otherwise known as The Duomo di Siena and this temple has become one of religious fervor to the people of Siena. The interior is breathtaking and covered with incredible works of renaissance-themed artwork. From the roof of The Siena Cathedral, you can experience an awe-inspiring view of Siena!

From The Cathedral Square, the Duomo’s presence is imposing and lavishly decorated, dominating the square with its sheer elegance and light!  Made entirely from black, white and pink marble, and decorated with the rich golden decor, The Siena Cathedral is a marvel to behold! This building is one of the most important gothic edifices of Italy, and it took over two hundred years to be fully constructed.

The Siena Cathedral is beautiful inside and out, featuring work of Italy’s most famous and acclaimed artists from that era, such as Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, Donatello, Pinturicchio, Lorenzo Ghiberti, and Bernini. One of the most famous paintings that are showcased here is the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. This magnificent cathedral is fascinating and by far one of the most impressive features in Siena!

Day 1/Stop 4 – The Leaning Tower of Pisa

• Why it’s awesome: This tower was built by a team of different architects over many years, and still stands even though it continues to tilt!
• Cost: Entrance fee to walk to the top is €18 ($24)
• Food Recommendation: Have a light meal at The Ristoro Pecorino, a quint and local cafe found close by. Their food is delicious and savory. They also happen to serve some of the best-brewed coffee!

The leaning tower of Pisa has gathered attention from the world, and has such an effect that makes this building look like it is defying the very nature of gravity! The ‘leaning’ has been due to the fact that after the first of the three floors was built by the architect Bonanno Pisano in 1178, the tower has begun to bend 5cm to the southeast.

100 years later, another architect by the name Giovanni di Simone began his attempts to compensate for the inclination of the structure. He built four vertical floors, but unexpectedly the bell tower still bent – and so the construction stopped again!

Lastly, came in Tommaso Pisano to complete the work of the bell tower is 1372, despite the continuation of the sideward plummet. A remarkable building expert named Alessandro Gherardesca then made the first restoration of the tower’s foundation and replaced it with marble.

Thanks to all of these creative and innovative thinkers, we now have the tremendous Leaning Tower of Pisa!  This structure is a spectacle and insanely beautiful on the inside, with marble finishes and white pillars. Explore a building that took years to be completed, and continues to stand even though it tilts about 1 cm every year!

Insider Tip: Lines can be crazy, so make sure to book your ticket in advance!

Day 1/Stop 5 – The River Arno

• Why it’s awesome: It is one of the primary and most important rivers in the whole of Italy!
• Food Recommendation: Caffe Dell Oro (Gold Coffee) is an Italian bistro that specializes in traditional Italian cuisine, so you are in for some really diverse and new meals. We suggest going for the seafood options, especially the grilled sea bass. Whatever your stomach feels like, each meal is cooked to perfection!

The River Arno is one of the main rivers in Italy, even the city of Pisa was built around this waterway! The part of the River Arno that runs through Pisa provides a captivatingly beautiful landscape, and is an amazing place to simply walk along at night! Under the stars, watch as the moonlight reflects off the river surface, along with the lights from cafes and cars driving by.

Five absolutely gorgeous bridges cross over the Arno from central Pisa, and both the Lungarno Mediceo and Galileo Galilei are found parallel to the river. The local old-school houses and renaissance-themed architecture create a marvelous backdrop and this part of Pisa is truly picture perfect!

You will remember the magic from this moment forever, there is no better way to end of your first day traveling in Italy!

Insider tip: Learning some basic Italian, such as Ciao for hello and goodbye, will be incredibly helpful during your trip! The locals are some of the most welcoming people in Europe, and they really appreciate it when tourists show that they have attempted the home language.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence | San Petronio Basilica in Bologna | The Gardens Of Giardino Giusti in Verona | The Grand Canal in Venice | Lido Beachfront in Venice

The day 2 itinerary is just as hectic as day 1. Whilst these 3 cities are relatively close together, traffic congestion can make the journeys longer than we would like. Again, you will need to start very early , have a private car and skip the line at Uffizi. You will have no time to hang around Bologna and may have to cut the gardens of Giardino Giusti.

Stop 1 – The Uffizi Gallery in Florence

• Why it’s awesome: This gallery hosts the most famous and beautiful artworks all the way from the Middle Ages to the present Modern Day!
• Cost: €6 – €12 ($7 – $13)
• Food Recommendation: Vinaino Fiorenza offers simple, yet gourmet Tuscan style food, specializing in special bread and rolls. The Panzanella is a great dish to have for a breakfast that is jam-packed with different tastes!

 The Uffizi Gallery entirely takes up the first and second floors of a large building constructed between 1560 and 1580, originally designed by Giorgio Vasari. The architecture of the building is art in itself, but when you embark on your adventure inside the gallery you will be lost in a world of fine art and ancient history!

The gallery is famous worldwide for the outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings that it keeps, some that are dated back to the Middle Ages and some from the days we now live.

 There is already so much splendor encapsulated from the paintings, but the gallery also prides itself on its collections of priceless ancient statues and busts that decorate the corridors! The Uffizi Gallery is a must-see landmark attraction in Italy. For an in depth review of Florence, read our Florence travel guide.

As this itinerary is intense, you will need be there by 9am to restrict yourself to seeing the masterpeices only. This can be done in 2 hours so you can out and on the road by midday.

Day 2/Stop 2 – San Petronio Basilica in Bologna

• Why it’s awesome: It is the 10th largest church in the entire world!
• Cost: Entrance is free and it is €2 ($3) to take photos
• Food Recommendation: Botanica Lab Cafe is the first Bistro in Bologna, and is striving to create healthy meals for a healthy body! Enjoy all of their vegan food and shakes. We recommend tasting one of their fresh croissants.

This immense structure stands and presents a domineering presence in the center of the Piazza Maggiore. San Petronio Basilica is dedicated to Saint Petronius, the patron saint of Bologna.

San Petronio Basilica in Bologna, ItalyThis outstandingly beautiful church has a Gothic design, and its most famous features are the sheer enormity of the building and its ancient unfinished front facade. Originally, the church was constructed in 1388 through to 1479, but it has never been truly finished, so the front facade is rather bizarre. The lower half features brilliant colored marble stonework,  in contrast to the top half that remains bare and made of exposed brown brickwork.

The church’s inside atmosphere is truly epic, with large brick columns that are adorned with decoration and seem to stretch on forever!  The San Petronio Basilica’s main altar is magnetic and will draw your attention as you walk down the central aisle in wonderment!

  Insider Tip: On the weekends you can take an escalator trip to the viewing platform!

Day 2/Stop 3 – The Gardens Of Giardino Giusti in Verona

• Why it’s awesome: These gardens are those of a famous royal palace in Verona!
• Cost: Entrance fee is €8,50 ($10)
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a laid back and fun meal at the Café Carducci! The setting is vintage, and so are the wines. We suggest having a wine and cheese sitting with a light meal.

 The Giusti Gardens are professionally designed and landscaped to capture the essence of the Italian Renaissance, and the style in which it does so is magnificent! The gardens are some of the very finest in Verona, providing a stunning contrast to the waves of architecture that is most present in the city!

You will walk along and find yourself feeling like royalty as you enjoy the eight different squares, and each section has its own unique design and theme with a central fountain or sculpted centerpiece! Maintaining a high-class standard, it is easy to see the care and attention put into every inch of this garden.

Rich flowers, bright colors and indigenous bushes decorate these gardens – and you can even find yourself in an iconic hedge maze!

Note that unless you have driven between cities like a stunt driver, the gardens may be closed by the time you arrive. Or, you may be running out of daylight and wanting to get straight to the Canal’s and Lido.

Day 2/Stop 4 – The Grand Canal in Venice

• Why it’s awesome: The Grand Canal is huge, and along the expansive waterways are some of the most outrageously beautiful places in Italy!
• Cost: Entrance is free, and the gondola hire is €4,30 ($5)
• Food Recommendation: The Restaurant Terrazza Danieli is an upmarket rooftop restaurant on The Grand Canal that has views overlooking the city! The restaurant serves classic Venetian cuisine, and one of the best bets for a tasty meal is the traditional pasta.

What should one know about the Grand Canal? Perhaps, that it the greatest avenue in the world!  It may be a little strange considering it is an entire street that is made out of the water, but it is lined with some of the greatest and most beautiful buildings on earth! Riding along the Grand Canal is a truly enchanting adventure.

This used to be “the”  prestigious place to live back in Venice’s heyday, and it is still one of the most aristocratic addresses on the block! All the merchants that have really ‘made it’ in the world of business have had a shop on the Grand Canal at some stage. On a humorous note, most of the beautiful buildings along the canal originate from this contest had by the Venetian rich to outdo the neighbor’s place next-door – how little things have changed today!

Whimsical and glamorous, the Grand Canal with have you falling in love with the enigmatic nature of Venice!

Insider Tip: Palaces in Venice were literally built to be seen from the water so keep your eyes peeled!

Day 2/Stop 5 – Lido Beachfront in Venice

• Why it’s awesome: This beach stretch is famously the best in Italy!
• Cost: Entrance fee is €22 ($24) for non-residents
• Food Recommendation: There is such a vibe at the Essentiale Restaurant & Lounge Bar at Hotel Villa Laguna that it can’t be missed! Enjoy 5-star style and fantastically decadent traditional food cooked by world-class chefs. Spot famous Italian actors and musicians whilst having one unforgettable culinary experience!

Lido has some of the very best beaches in Italy, and has a sandbar that elongates over 7 miles long that sits in the Venice Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea! This stretch of beach has the well-earned nickname of “Island of Gold”, due to the stunning golden-brown sands and magnificent shores.

The loveliest beaches are in front of Lido’s historically grand hotels, they are lined with thatched beach huts or sporting elegant white cabanas. The beaches are open from May through September for travelers to bask in the Italian sun and enjoy the atmosphere!

In all probability, the sun will have set by the time you arrive. Hopefully, there will be a full moon casting a serene reflection over the water. This is an amazing and remarkably scenic way to end your 2 days in Italy.

You will be tired out by this point so make sure you book one of the best hostels in Venice to ensure a good nights rest.

Generator Rome

One of the very best hostels in Italy is the Generator Rome. Discovery historical and ancient backstreets, and find yourself close to hubs that offer street culture, art, and amazing food!

• Outdoor Terrace

The Montecassino | The Cinque Terre in Liguria | The Colosseum in Rome | The Roman Forum | The Chianti Wine Route in Tuscany

Our Italy trip planner will give you plenty of fun ways to spend your next few days! Visit ancient sites and historical landmarks all whilst traveling the beauty of this country and learning more about what Italy’s heritage is all about. Come with us on this adventure!

The Montecassino

• The Montecassino was first built in 529 AD and attracts lots of tourists worldwide due to the significant historical background of the Abbey.
• The surrounding gardens are vast and full of indigenous Italian wildflowers!
• The entrance to this magnificent site is entirely free, but the monks do accept donations to the monastery.

Italy’s steep and rocky hills are home to a rebuilt Monte Cassino Abbey, and it is one of the most popular abbeys in the world! Despite being destroyed during World War II, it has been remade and kept its original structure. This is a unique site that is filled with lots of history from the days of worship and meditation. It is still in use as a religious venue for Christian monks, and it is breathtaking!

 The remaining ashes of Saint Benedict, as well as his twin sister Saint Scholastica, are preserved and kept in bronze urns. The urns are found under the basilica’s high altar, and you can also admire other relics that are on display in the Chapel of Relics.

If you venture under the church, you will see a16th century crypt, adorned with an endless amount of fine art mosaics, as well as the tomb of St Benedict and his sister.

Monte Cassino used to be the wealthiest known monastery and is filled with old relics from St. Benedict. To see these old paintings, frescoes, and mosaics, you can go into the abbey’s museum. This adventure is full of new knowledge and stunning religious artifacts!

The Cinque Terre in Liguria

• Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has also been designed as a national park. Italy has a bunch of national parks to visit .
• The Cinque Terre is nestled in Liguria, and the ‘Five Lands’ is made up of five prominent villages that are located at the top of the rugged cliffs. overlooking the famous Italian Riviera.
• €105 ($119) is the average cost of traveling this famous coastline.

Cinque Terre’s villages are all overlooking the famous Italian Riviera, so no matter which of these villages you are in, at any given time you will be astounded by the landscapes!

This popular string of centuries-old seaside villages has 5 distinct towns that each have their own uniquely charming sites –  Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso.  

These humble villages are overflowing with marvelous vineyards, vibrantly colored houses, steep terraces, abundant fishing harbors and plenty of local seafood specials. Most of the food here will be served with Liguria’s famous sauce, pesto.

The romantic area of Cinque Terra is sprawled between La Spezia and Levanto. It offers olive groves, azure sea views along the long coastline and a bevy of traditional restaurants.

If you want to have a hike, then The Sentiero Azzurro cliffside trail is the best! This hiking trail connects all of the villages and provides some of the most amazing sweeping sea vistas!

The Colosseum in Rome

• Pre-book tickets before you come. Lines are very long and sometimes it can take half a day just to get in.
• This site is one of the biggest attractions, and when you see how the building still stands and preserves so much of Ancient Rome’s splendor, you will understand why!
• Entrance fee is €12 ($13,50)

 You simply can’t visit the ancient city of Rome and not visit this most well known and very famous attraction! The mighty colosseum retains a remarkable stature and captures what it was like in Rome during the empire’s day. Walking amongst the wreckage, you can almost feel yourself time traveling to see the gladiators readying themselves for a fight to the death, as the hierarchy watched and eager fans cheered!

This colossal amphitheater was once able to host 50 000 spectators and has now become one of the most important historical relics in the world! The Colosseum still retains a hell of a lot of grandeur, and you can get a very good idea of what it must have looked like in its prime.

This site is both entertaining and reflective, as we realize how far humanity has come from such barbaric times (we now have X Factor….) . The ruins are beautiful, and seeing these broken down structures under the clear skies of Rome is perfection.

Want to learn more about this wonderful country? Head over to our backpacking Italy travel guide for more details all things Italian!

The Roman Forum

• The Roman Forum is one of Italy’s biggest attractions and lies between the Capitoline and the Palatine hills of Rome.
• The Forum was the center of the whole Roman Empire!
• Entrance fee is €2 ($2,24)

The Roman Forum is an essential part of any Rome itinerary . It is so big that it can be seen from most terraces in the wider city and enchants everyone who visits with its tall pillars, aged domes and amazingly well-kept structures with infinite detail and depth.

The ruins of The Roman Forum are made up of breathtakingly impressive temples, arches, and houses. This expansive labyrinth of history is home to both The Temple of Saturn and The Via Sia. Walking in the footsteps of Julius Caesar, in these remains you can still feel the power from Italy’s most prominent and ancient empire!

A guided tour of the Roman Forum offers you an authentic chance to gain insight into the politics, beliefs, and lives of the Ancient Romans themselves, helping you to understand so much more about this lost civilization!

The Chianti Wine Route in Tuscany

• Chianti is the most famous wine estate in Italy and churns some of the best plonk in the world!
• Touring this route offers you a very unique view of the landscapes and villages that you won’t find on other wine routes or tours.
• The route is free to drive or walk through.

 The Chianti road connects Florence to Siena, and is probably the most beautiful driving route in Italy! It passes through acres and acres of pristine arable land which has produced some of the best wine ever!

Just like it’s wines, Chianti has become more beautiful with time! This route will take you through enchanting old villages, rolling green hills and flowing streams. Stop off to have a wine tasting, or simply even have a picnic in one of the many beautiful spots along the way.

Italy is a strong contributor to the world of wine and this is one of its prime, wine regions .  Winelovers simply cannot go to Italy without exploring the magnificently beautiful and expansive vineyards!

You’ll also find plenty of Italian yoga retreats in this part of Italy.

Here of some of the best Italian trips for you to enjoy on your journey that will add heaps of zest and fun to your days! Whether you’re spending the weekend in Italy or more than 3 days in Italy, we’ve got your back with these amazing tours. 

Capri Boat Trip To Visit The Blue Grotto

This adventure is a true must for those wanting to experience all of the magic that Italy’s waterways have to share! The mystical Blue Grotto is an ancient sea cave just off the coast of Capri Island, and the effect that the sunlight has on the cave water is mesmerizing!

 The ocean water turns a bright luminescent blue color, and while you are touring through the cave you will not only feel the calmness and fantasy-like essence, but you will also feel as if you are floating on an electric blue wave that lights up the whole underwater cavity! The cave is a true gem, and boating through is a once in a lifetime experience!

Rome: Pompeii Sightseeing Trip

Pompei was famously suddenly and totally  destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79AD. On this group excursion, you will explore these artistic and historical sites, ranging from old bathtubs, halls, and marble statues! Exploring  Pompei’s history is eerrie and fascinating.

The buildings are surprisingly well-preserved for their age, showing how ingenious Roman architecture was. These ruins are beautiful and have remained standing even after a huge volcanic eruption destroyed most of the castles and temples. Some parts of Pompeii still remain covered in volcanic ash, making these ruins a massive archeological landmark!

 Tuscany: Canyoning Adventure Day Trip

This is a fun day trip that is sure to curb your undying craving for adventure! On this energising excursion, you will have a full day of wet and wild canoeing on the beautifully scenic countryside of Tuscany!

As you navigate the way, you will be immersed in gorgeous waterfalls, and slide down completely natural water slides. Maneuvering on the sometimes tricky Tuscan waterways, you will have a great day learning how to conquer the waves. The whole way is full of gorgeous Renaissance buildings, colorful vegetation, birdlife and views that will make your soul soar!

 Naples and Amalfi Coast Full Day Tour from Rome

Having the opportunity to see one stunning place is magnificent enough, but on this tour, you will get to see two in only one day!!

Dirty Naples shows another side to Italy’s charecter and yet never fails to charm visitors.

To make your day even more unforgettable, you will be traveling past the exquisite coast of Amalfi . This coastline is lined with colorful old-school villas, fishing villages, stunning cliffs, and rocky shorelines.

 Ischia Day Trip with Lunch from Naples

On this day trip from Naples, you will be provided with one otherworldly kind of adventure! Travel from Naples to one of the most beautiful islands in Italy , and lunch with your travel companions. This volcanic island is surrounded by the Mediterranean sea, with ocean views that stretch as far as the eye can see!

The waters are known for being mineral-rich and enjoyably warm for you to have a dip and swim with fish. There are also volcanic natural spas for you to treat yourself to on this alluring island.

From the beach of Ischia, you can walk along a stone bridge to the medieval Aragonese Castle. Nearby, you will find the 18th-century Palazzo dell’Orologio that houses the Sea Museum, where you can learn more about the area of Ischia and its fishing tradition.

Italy is very safe for travellers and violent crime is rare. However, you do need to take some precautions.  Italy is generally safe , we will help prepare you for your visit so that you can keep yourself and your important things safe when in Italy!  

Rome, in particular, is known for petty theft and pickpocketing as are other major tourist destinations.

Never travel with  your bag out in the open or with an unlocked backpack. Keep your bag in front of you and keep it zipped. For extra precautions, get a handbag with a wire strap, so that it cannot easily be cut and run away with.

In the Metro subways watch for young children who may be working as pickpockes and bag thieves. Stay aware of people wanting to bump or get too close to you, and watch where their hands are going. Pickpocketing happens in the busy lines and within big tourist groups.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Italy

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Italy itinerary.

How many days do you need for a full Italy itinerary?

If you’re keen to explore as much of the country as possible, then you’ll need about 2-3 weeks in Italy.

What should you include on a 10 day Italy itinerary?

Make sure to check out these iconic attractions: – The Pantheon & Colosseum, Rome – Siena Cathedral, Siena – The Leaning Tower, Pisa – Grand Canal, Venice

Where should you stay for a honeymoon in Italy?

Positano is our pick for the most romantic place to stay in Italy, while Florence and Venice are also popular options.

What is the best way to travel around Italy?

Train travel is the cheapest and easiest way to travel around Italy. Renting a car would provide more flexibility, while flying can be the quickest option and is often great value!

This complete travel guide will ensure that your days in Italy are well spent! We have covered the best trips for your Italy vacation, where to find the most mouth-watering traditional cuisine, and more! This beautiful country is a favorite, so be prepared to fall in love with the history, culture, and people as you explore endless magic!

 This Italy travel itinerary will have you enjoying the best parts of Italy, and soaking up your time in this country to the fullest! Backpacking through Italy can be inexpensive , and truly one of the best adventures you will ever go on. We sing Italy’s praises loud and clear!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Must-know travel tips for first-timers in Italy

Nov 7, 2016 • 6 min read

Everyone knows Italy – Rome ’s iconic ruins, Tuscany ’s vine-clad hills, Venice ’s romantic waterways. These have all been on traveller's radars for centuries. Add fabulous food and breath-taking scenery, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable visit.

But beyond the headline sights, what’s a trip to Italy really like? What’s the best way of getting around? What’s the local etiquette? What should I wear? Here are some practical tips to help you on your way and ensure that your first time in Italy is a truly magical experience.

Eating like an Italian

Whether you’re tucking into hearty farmhouse fare in a Tuscan agriturismo  or a wood-fired pizza in a Naples pizzeria , dining out is one of Italy’s great joys.

And there’s no shortage of eateries, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to neighbourhood trattorias, wine bars, cafes and pizzerias. Italians generally eat late, so if you want to fit in, stop for lunch at around 1.30pm and dinner at 8.30 to 9pm – the further south you go, the later they eat.

A full Italian meal consists of an antipasto, a primo (usually pasta or risotto), secondo (main course, typically fish or meat), contorno (side dish), and dolce (dessert). You’re not expected to eat all that, so feel free to mix ‘n’ match when ordering. And when you’ve finished, ask for the bill – it won’t be delivered automatically.

If you like this, try this: Piedmont's top dishes and where to try them

Some other pointers: eat spaghetti with a fork, not a spoon. Never eat bread with pasta, though it’s okay to wipe up any leftover sauce with it. Drink wine with pasta and beer with pizzas. It’s fine to eat pizza with your hands.

Bread and tipping

Italians are not big tippers. Service is generally added to restaurant bills, but if it’s not, a euro or two is fine in trattorias and pizzerias, up to 10% in smart restaurants. Also, expect to pay for pane e coperto (a bread and cover charge) – this is standard and is added even if you don’t ask for or eat the bread.

Tipping in bars isn’t necessary but many people leave small change when ordering a coffee.

If you like this, try this: Italy's coolest city: why Naples is the place to be right now

Italy's coffee etiquette

Stopping at a cafe for a quick coffee is one of the great rituals of Italian life. To do it like a local, first pay at the cash register, then, armed with your receipt, give the barista your order. When it arrives, drink standing at the bar – sitting at a table is fine but takes longer and costs more.

The classic Italian caffè is an espresso – though, the term espresso is hardly ever used in Italy. Cappuccinos are popular for breakfast and are often paired with a fresh cornetto (an Italian croissant). They are never drunk later than mid-morning.

When eating in restaurants, un caffè after dessert is okay, but not with your main meal please.

Italy's museums (and how to skip the line)

Italy’s historic cities are littered with awe-inspiring art and famous buildings, and often sightseeing is just a case of walking the streets. But for top sights like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums in Rome or Florence ’s Galleria degli Uffizi and Gallerie dell’Accademia , entrance queues are the norm.

There are no fool-proof ways of skipping the line – even with a ticket there are still security checks. But you’ll cut waiting time by booking tickets online. Alternatively, try to arrive first thing in the morning or late afternoon when the queues have died down. In the case of the Vatican Museums, Tuesdays and Thursdays are the quietest days.

Museum opening times vary, but many are closed on Mondays. Also, state museums are free on the first Sunday of each month between October and March.

How to dress the part

Appearances matter in fashion-conscious Italy. That said, you’ll have to dress comfortably for sightseeing because you’ll be walking a lot. Practical shoes are a must as cobblestoned streets play havoc with heels and ankles. For the evening, smart casual is the way to go.

At big religious sites, dress codes are strictly enforced. If you want to get into St Peter’s Basilica or St Marks in Venice, play it safe and cover your knees and shoulders.

Cash or card?

While credit cards are widely accepted in most instances,  Italy hasn’t entirely gone plastic . You can’t always rely on cards in museum ticket offices, smaller trattorias (which are often the best ones!), shops and pizzerias.

ATMs (known in Italian as bancomat ) are everywhere and most will accept cards tied to the Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Maestro systems.

If you like this, try this:  Spending diary: what I spent on a four-day trip to Rome

Shopping like a pro in Italy

Traditionally, Italian shops have an afternoon break, typically closing between 1pm and 3.30pm. They’ll then re-open until around 8pm. However, this is changing and in big cities, many shops now stay open throughout the day. Some even open on Sunday mornings.

You’ll find the usual cast of chain stores and designer boutiques in Italy, but more interesting are its many small-label fashion boutiques and artisanal craft shops. A good case in point is Giulio Giannini e Figlio in Florence, where they’ve been making marbled paper since the 19th century.

To stock up on picnic provisions, or just to enjoy some local colour, markets such as Campo de’ Fiori in Rome or Venice’s Mercato di Rialto are an entertaining alternative to supermarkets. Similarly, historic delis like La Baita in Bologna and Milan’s Peck are full of tantalising gourmet goodies.

To drive or not to drive?

It’s pointless hiring a car for city travel – traffic is hellish and ZTLs (limited traffic zones) are in force – but if you want to head into the countryside, it’s worth considering.

Italians tend to drive aggressively but once you’ve got used to the tailgaters and tooting, driving here is not as nerve-wracking as it’s often made out to be. Italy's roads are fine and outside the main urban centres, the scenery is often spectacular.

Often harder than driving is parking. Street parking is denoted by white (free) or blue lines. The latter require a ticket from a coin-operated meter or tabaccaio .

Navigating Italy's public transport

Most Italian cities can be explored on foot, but you’ll inevitably need to use Italy's public transport at some point. Tickets, bought from a tabaccaio  (tobacconist's shop) or street kiosk and validated once on board, are generally valid for a set time period. In Rome, for example, a single €1.50 ticket is valid for 100 minutes. During that time you can use as many trams and buses as you like and take one metro journey.

If you’re staying in a city for a number of days, a travel pass will probably save you money. In Venice, a single journey on a vaporetto (water bus) costs an eye-watering €7.50, but various passes are available, starting at €20 for 24 hours.

Brush up on your italiano, mi amore

You’ll have no trouble getting by with English, but a few Italian words and expressions will help you on your way. This is particularly true in restaurants where menus don’t always have translations and some places rely on waiters to explain things.

Some essential phrases:

- Hello Ciao

- Goodbye Arrivederci

- Please Per favore

- Thank you Grazie

- Do you speak English? Parla inglese?

- I’d like to reserve a table for two at eight o’clock Vorrei prenotare un tavolo per due per le otto.

This article was first published November 2016, last updated August 2019.

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Fearlessly Italy

The Ultimate Italy Travel Guide – A Local’s Guide To Traveling To Italy

Even though a popular tourist destination, when planning a trip to Italy , there are several things to keep in mind, especially if it’s your first time. Our extensive Italy travel guide will cover the most important steps to organizing the trip and all the useful information that you need to save in order to avoid surprises and know what to do if a problem arises.

From how to get to Italy, to how to get around to a detailed cost breakdown, this is a complete checklist that allows you to start planning right away.

Being a very tourist-friendly country, the planning process is pretty straightforward. But like for every trip out of your comfort zone, careful preparation will make things easier and smoother once you are here.

Apart from the necessary planning tips, our Italy travel guide will cover essential information including the important numbers you need to save, how to get to Italy, how to move around the country, and a detailed cost breakdown.

Table of Contents

Travel Guide To Italy – What To Know Before Planning Your Italy Trip

What do you need to know before traveling to Italy? Apart from basic facts like currency, how to apply for a visa, and deciding whether you should visit Northern Italy or Southern Italy , we suggest you start booking hotels and transportation in advance to find better prices and more places. This is particularly important if you are traveling in the high season.

With our Italy travel guide, we give you the tools to organize a trip on your own. But if you’d rather sit and relax and delegate all things logistics, below you will find also a choice of the best companies for top Italy tours , including Italy bike tours and Italy food tours , both complete packages and day trips.

Italy Facts

• Language: Italian plus German and French in some regions and local dialects that change depending on cities, towns, and small villages.
• Population: Around 60 million according to 2019 stats.
• Size: 331.338 km².
• Government: Republic, EU member, Schengen area.
• Currency: Euro.
• Borders: France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, San Marino, Vatican.
• Regions: 20.

How To Get To Italy

The most common way to reach Italy is by far by plane. All airlines fly to Italy from all over the world, both flag carriers such as British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Etihad, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air China, Air India, and low-cost airlines such as Wizz Air, RyanAir, EasyJet, Vueling.

Apart from the major international airports of Rome’s Fiumicino and Milan’s Malpensa, there are flights from other European hubs to Italian cities like Florence, Venice, Naples, Cagliari, Alghero and Olbia in Sardinia, Palermo and Catania in Sicily, Bologna and more.

Click here for the prices and to book your flight

You can reach Italy by railway both with day and night trains from several European countries such as Austria, France, Germany, and Switzerland, and with a few changes and also connections to cities in Spain and Eastern Europe.

Recently there has been a revival of night trains as they are seen as a more sustainable way of traveling by many and an alternative to airplanes. After a steady decline in the past decades, now all over Europe, long-distance rides and night trains are becoming a new favorite, like the scenic ride you can enjoy on the Paris to Switzerland train .

Booking a train trip is perfect especially for slow travelers, because you can stop in several places and also enjoy cities originally not on your bucket list.

Click here to check the timetables and book your train

By ferry/cruise

You can reach Italy also by ferry from different countries such as France, Greece and Spain. In the high season, meaning summer and close to Christmas, there certainly are more ferries and cruises, but you can book trips pretty much all year long.

Some of the main ferry companies are Grimaldi, Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), and Tirrenia. You can reach Genoa from Barcelona with Grandi Navi Veloci, and from several Greek cities, you can reach Venice, Brindisi, Ancona, and Bari with companies like Blue Star Ferries, Superfast Ferries, and Fragline Ferries. Grimaldi and Tirrenia connect Italy also to Tunisi while Marmara Lines to Cesme in Turkey, Virtu Ferries connects Sicily to Malta and Jadrolinija connects Dubrovnik to Bari in Puglia, southern Italy.

Click here to check the prices and book your ferry

Best Time To Visit Italy

Any time is good to visit Italy, where to go in Europe with kids for a dream holiday. Each season has its own perks. Summer is usually hot everywhere, so you might prefer to visit the coast and be close to the sea or a lake, or maybe be in the mountains where the air is fresh. Summer is also the most crowded season, so you will always need to queue to enter major landmarks. Obviously, it’s also the season when the weather is more stable and you will need to pack fewer clothes.

Fall and Spring are lovely seasons to visit the cities as they are not too crowded nor too hot or cold. Bot Fall and Spring can give you some showers, but then the nice weather comes back. Usually, fall is rainier than April or May , which are among the best months to choose if you are booking a walking holiday in Italy .

Winter is the season for skiing, so Valle d’Aosta, Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige are pretty busy. However, in many Italian regions , winter is quite mild and properly dressed, you can visit big cities and small towns without problems.

How To Get An Italian Visa

Italy is in the Schengen area, so if you are doing a European road trip and were granted a visa to another Schengen country, you can also visit Italy. If you are applying just for Italy, you need to check with the Italian embassy or consulate in your country to make sure what are the requirements and what documents you need to submit.

First of all, inquire if you need a visa because not all nationalities do. To find out if you do need a visa and what procedure you need to follow, answer a few easy questions on the Italy Foreign Ministry’s website . I always recommend checking with the local consulate in your country as the time it takes to issue the visa depends a lot on where you are located and also on your nationality.

How long should you stay In Italy?

The duration of your Italy trip really depends on how many holidays you have, how much you want to visit and ultimately, also on your budget.

If it’s your first trip and you really want to visit all the major cities, I suggest no less than ten days. With ten days at your disposal, you would ideally be doing a Venice-Florence-Rome itinerary with no time for day trips. If you spend two weeks in Italy , it’s more likely that you can take some day trips from the main cities or include other places such as Naples or the Cinque Terre, also very touristy.

All a different matter is if it’s not your first time in Italy and you have already visited the main destinations. This way, you can even devote a week to a single region or a few days for a city break, especially if you live in another European country a few hours plane away.

How To Get Around Italy

If you are planning a road trip, you can rent a car wherever you land in Italy. With a navigator that is now included in many rental cars or even your Google Maps app, it will be easy to find your way. Around Italy, from a region/city to another, you will likely enter high-speed highways with a toll. Sardinia is the only region without highways. Although, the navigator will tell you when you are going to a paid highway and sometimes will also give you the option to choose a toll-free route.

Something you need to pay attention to is the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) imposed in many cities including Rome and Florence, but also small towns like Bracciano, near Rome. If you are renting a car, make sure you pick your hotel out of the ZTL because fines are pretty high. Some day and some hours, ZTL gates are open, so you can get through, but when they are closed, only authorized vehicles can. Check out the municipality website of each city you are driving to.

To rent a car in Italy, you need to be 23 or 25, depending on the agency, and extra-EU citizens also need an international license, which you can get in your home country.

Click here to rent your car

If you’d rather not drive and visit mainly the biggest cities, traveling by train in Italy is easy and straightforward. The railway network in Italy is pretty widespread, especially going northward. Trains stop in all the big cities, most towns and also many smaller villages. If you are visiting smaller villages, chances are that you will need a car (or a tour) for the surroundings, unless you are interested in the village itself.

Traveling by train is easy also because from one city to the next, you will directly get to the historic center so ready for sightseeing. This will make it also possible to stay less in each place and still visit a lot.

Click here to check timetables and book your train

Another way to travel around Italy is by plane. You can find most cities connected through the flag carrier Alitalia but also other regional airlines such as Meridiana for Sardinia, and low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet.

While traveling by railway is easy and can take you to many cities, if you are in the north and want to reach the south, a flight is the fastest way. Or also if you want to travel to Sardinia, you can either choose the ferry or the plane.

There are several flights every day from and to Rome Fiumicino, Milano Malpensa, and Milano Linate, being among the biggest airports. But also airports like Cagliari-Elmas, Olbia-Costa Smeralda, Palermo, Venezia and Bologna are pretty busy.

The tickets are not too expensive and it applies the general rule that by booking in advance you can find better offers and promotions. Sometimes it’s also possible to find last-minute offers and plan some detours from your original itinerary or add more places to visit.

Click here to check the prices and book your flight

This is probably the cheapest option but also a slow and, sometimes, limiting one. There are several extra-urban coaches that connect different cities and different regions. For example, you can book a bus from Rome to Sicily, but it will obviously take much longer than the plane and also the train.

Sita – www.sitabus.it (soprattutto per le tratte da Veneto, Toscana, Campania, Basilicata e Puglia), Arpa – www.arpaonline.it in Abruzzo, Sais – www.saistrasporti.it in Sicilia, Busweb – www.busweb.it, Saj – www.saj.it in Calabria, Marino – www.marinobus.it in Puglia e Basilicata, Arst in Sardegna, Sena – www.sena.it in Toscana, Autostradale – www.autostradale.it in Lombardia, Busitalia in Umbria.

Click here to check timetables and book your bus

To reach the islands you can opt for the ferry instead of the plane. Some of the companies operating the ferry routes to and from Sardinia are Tirrenia, Grimaldi, GNV and Sardinia Ferries, with Tirrenia being the one that operates the whole year.

To reach Sicily, there are also Caronte & Tourist, Liberty Lines and TTTLines. You can reach Sicily from Cagliari, Civitavecchia, Naples, Salerno, Livorno, Reggio Calabria, Genoa.

The Italian ports from where you can board to reach Sardinia Civitavecchia near Rome, Livorno, Genoa, Naples and Palermo.

How Much Does A Holiday In Italy Cost? Expenses Breakdown

Your Italy trip doesn’t have to be expensive. The overall budget depends on many factors, such as the season, the places you want to visit, the type of hotel you want to book and the type of restaurants you want to try.

Ideally, a holiday in Rome would be more expensive than a trip to Sardinia. But this is not always the case. For example, if in Sardinia you are aiming at a 5-star resort in the exclusive Costa Smeralda, your holiday will certainly be more expensive than booking a guest house or an apartment in Rome, even those in the city center.

Here I’m going to do a costs breakdown for a typical trip to Italy of medium budget. Choosing a higher or lower lifestyle, will make your costs go up or down.

Travel Insurance

A very popular travel insurance is World Nomads . Their rates vary depending on the options, how long is the trip, and how many people are traveling. As per some examples, for 10 days in Italy for one 30-year-old traveler, the standard coverage costs about 75$, while for a 2-week Italy trip for a family of three with a mother, father, and 4-year-old toddler, the standard coverage will be around 275$.

Transportation from the airport

This depends on where you land and where you are going from the airport. But since one of the most common airports is Rome’s Fiumicino, you can already take note of some 50/60 euro Roman taxi fare to the city, while from Ciampino is a bit cheaper, around 30 euro. The price from the local airport to Florence is less than 25 euro, while in Milan, from Malpensa airport to the city is almost 100 euro. You can also check Uber services in different Italian cities if they are more convenient than regular taxis.

Obviously, you can opt for public transportation, either train or coach, and it would be much cheaper. From Fiumicino to Roma Termini train station is 14 euro for the direct train called Leonardo Express, while if you want to get off at other minor stations, you can take the train to Ostiense that costs 8 euro and stops in stations such as Trastevere and Ostiense. Check out Omio for timetables and tickets.

Transportation around Italy

The costs of moving around in Italy vary according to your transportation choices. As mentioned above, the cheapest way to move around is by bus, but if you are short in time, this might not be ideal.

Train travel in Italy is not too expensive especially if you plan your trip, and purchase your tickets, in advance. As an example, a train ticket from Rome to Milan is about 80 euros if you buy it a couple of weeks in advance, while it can cost you some 100 euros if you purchase it the days before the journey.

The ticket from Rome to Florence costs around 40/45 euros. Sometimes you can also find offers for 25 euros. If you are interested in taking some day trips from Florence, tickets to Pisa, Siena or Lucca are all less than 10 euros. If you are going south, a trip to Naples from Rome is about 40 euro, and from Naples to reach Pompeii is around 4 euros. Prices change also depending on the season.

Renting a car is not necessarily more expensive but obviously you also need to consider the price of petrol. Check out Discover Cars for rates and promotions.

Depending on the city and on the season, your hotel rates will vary enormously. Booking in advance can make quite the difference and also choosing an apartment instead of a hotel can be much cheaper.

Cities like Florence and Venice are usually more expensive when it comes to accommodation, while smaller towns and lesser-visited regions like Marche or Basilicata offer less costly options.

To mention some examples of what we paid during our trips, in Florence , we booked a guesthouse we didn’t particularly love some half an hour walk from the historic center in May and we paid 62 euros per night for a double room. On our two-day trip to Milan , we booked and enjoyed Delle Nazioni Milan Hotel , very close to the main train station Stazione Centrale, and we paid 122 euros for two nights in June.

In Turin , we booked an apartment for 202 euros for 4 nights and we loved our stay there. Although it wasn’t in the city center, it was easy to reach by tram and the flat was comfortable and equipped with everything we needed.

When it comes to Sardinia, on the other hand, we stayed in Mamoiada, Nuoro province, for the Mamuthones festival and a B&B cost us 80 euro per night, while in Olbia in August, we paid 120 euro per night for a double room comprehensive of baby’s cot.

Apart from the city center of the major tourist destinations, especially Venice, eating in Italy is not too expensive. In average restaurants, a starter, a side dish and the dessert range around 5 to 6 euros, the first course of pasta or rice can be prices between 10 to 18 euros, while the main course is usually between 15 and 25 euros. Wines make the price go up whether you order a bottle or just a glass.

A sandwich ( panino ) in a bar or coffee shop is usually around 2 to 5 euros, a salad maximum of 10 euros. Sometimes you can also buy one of the always more popular Buddha bowls take-away for some 10 euros and have it in your hotel room.

Gelato can cost around 2 to 4 euros depending on how many scoops and what type of cone or cup you choose. High-quality artisan gelato is not more expensive than an industrial ice-cream, but the taste and experience are much different, so make sure you know what and where to buy yours.

What To Visit In Italy

Let’s face it, this is a bit tricky because there are just too many places to visit in Italy. If you have never been, you might want to visit major cities or popular areas. Some of the places to visit in Italy if it’s your first trip:

No need for an introduction here. Italy’s capital and an unmissable destination, there are so many things to do in Rome that even if you stay two weeks only here, you won’t run out of places to see. With something for everyone, in Rome, you can spend the whole day sightseeing and never have enough of it. If you are on a classic Italy tour for first-time visitors, you can easily book a Florence to Rome train to reach the capital in an hour and a half.

Explore its ancient ruins such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Baths of Caracalla, the main sights of the Christendom in the Vatican City , famous landmarks such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps in the historic center, quaint neighborhoods such as Trastevere, and trendy and former working-class districts filled with colorful murals such as Ostiense and Testaccio. Obviously, don’t forget to try some of Rome’s hearty traditional dishes .

Make sure you read our article on the best places to visit near Rome if you can afford more time in the city!

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a must-see for everyone visiting Italy for the first time. Or even the second and the third. If you are into art and beauty, hardly any city can compete.

Start your Florence tour from the Santa Maria del Fiore complex and carry on to see landmarks such as Michelangelo’s David, the Uffizi Gallery, Santa Maria Novella Basilica, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Garden and more. All without forgetting to try the traditional dishes in the best Florence restaurants .

If you have limited time and are forced to make a choice, our article will help you decide whether you should visit Rome or Florence !

They call it the most romantic city in Italy. Whether you agree or not, Venice is a must-visit. Stroll around its canals and bridges, take a gondola ride, and try the local food. If you are traveling to Italy in winter, try to see Venice Carnival, it’s a beautiful parade of posing, camera-loving masks.

Some of the places to see in Venice are San Marco Piazza and Basilica, the Doge Palace, the Bridges of Sighs and of Rialto, the Jewish Quarter, and the nearby colorful island of Burano.

Milan is often the city where international flights land so you can easily make it the first leg of your itinerary. If you don’t have much time, you can see Milan in one day , while if you can afford a longer stay, you can explore more of its landmarks, nightlife, and restaurants.

Some of the places you should see, whether you stay one or two days in Milan , are the gorgeous Gothic-style Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper, Castello Sforzesco, and La Scala Opera House.

Naples and the Amalfi Coast

Famous all over the world for its landscape and dolce vita lifestyle, the Amalfi Coast, Costiera Amalfitana in Italian, never fails to impress. With places like Positano, Ravello and the same Amalfi, it attracts thousands of tourists every summer.

If you are in Campania, however, you shouldn’t miss its capital, Naples. Gorgeous and historical city, Naples is also the home town of the pizza and many other delicacies. If you are on a weight loss diet, here you will likely cheat on it.

From Naples, you can also take a day trip to see the spectacular ruins of Pompeii and the town of Sorrento on the Bay of Naples.

Cinque Terre

Always more famous and popular among tourists, the Cinque Terre of the Italian Riviera in the Liguria region is a great destination for hikers and sea lovers. Italian for Five Lands, the Cinque Terre are Vernazza, Monterosso Sul Mare, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Manarola.

They are picturesque towns on the Ligurian coast in La Spezia province. You can go from one to the next by hiking or by taking the frequent local train. You can either stay in one of the five towns overnight or make it a day trip from Genoa, the capital of the Liguria region.

The Alps and the Dolomites

If you like the mountain, some of the places you should visit are the Dolomites of Trentino Alto Adige or the Alps of Valle d’Aosta.

Your door to the Dolomites can be the cities of Trento and Bolzano , fantastic destinations to explore and where to spend a few days, or other towns in Trentino Alto Adige such as Bressanone and Merano.

You can reach the Dolomites also from the Veneto and Lombardy regions, while a great place to visit high peaks of the Alps is the scenic Valle d’Aosta region on the border with France. Here, you can hike and ski the gorgeous Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa, Cervino and Gran Paradiso, apart from wandering its quaint towns such as Vens.

The Islands: Sardinia and Sicily

Are you coming in summer and want to hit the beaches? What better places than the Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily? Both islands boast stunning coastline and beautiful beaches all around. It’s the summer holiday paradise for swimming, sunbathing and breathing some fresh air compared to the inland areas far from the sea.

Both Sicily and Sardinia are not known only for their beaches. There are many towns and villages to see if you are a fan of offbeat travel, such as Cabras, Pula, and Fordongianus in Sardinia, or Taormina and Ragusa in Sicily, to name a few.

Don’t miss our guide to the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia .

What To Eat In Italy

With each region and each city boasting its own recipes, deciding what to eat in Italy really depends on where you are traveling to. From breakfast to lunch to dinner, you can experience the typical Italian dining style and try the most popular and traditional dishes in every area.

So if you are in Rome, enjoy your tonnarelli cacio e pepe, bucatini all’amatriciana or spaghetti alla carbonara. In Naples, try their delicious pizza, in Bologna tortellini or lasagna, in Turin, polenta or bagna cauda and in Florence meat-eaters will sure order the Fiorentina steak at least once in their trip.

Some of Italy’s most famous dishes?

• Pizza . No need for an introduction here. You find it all over Italy and everywhere in different ways and shapes. The round on the plate mainly for dinner, except for tourist areas or some restaurants. By the slice with the most different toppings is pretty much all over Italy and it’s a favorite street food.
• Pasta. This, too, in Italy is everywhere. Short, spaghetti, lasagna, ravioli, tortellini, fettuccine, you name it. Each region has its own shape, way to make it and sauce to season it.
• Stews. Made it using different types of meat from lamb to sheep to beef, and different herbs and seasonings. Also the stews you are likely to find them in every region. They mainly are winter dishes, but in tourist areas, you can find them also in summer.
• Pastries and sweets. Don’t even get me started here. From north to south, if you are on a diet when visiting Italy, you will have a hard time refusing a pastry at every occasion. Croissants, bombe, crostata, cakes, tiramisu, panna cotta, gelato, you name it. From breakfast to all throughout the day, you can close off every meal with a dessert.
• Soups. Made with veggies or meat, they sometimes are used as first courses or as a consommé to open the meal.

Shopping in Italy

Whether you are looking for gifts or for something for yourself to remember your trip by, there are plenty of things to buy in Italy .

While clothes and shoes might be too personal, some of the most favorite gifts to bring home to friends and family are a bottle of good wine, some jewelry, accessories like bags (ask for Pollini or Coccinelle), or a piece of local handicraft which can ceramic, glass, or textile.

Some nice and much-appreciated gifts certainly are to be found in the food department. You won’t get it wrong if you buy artisan chocolate, traditional pastries, good-quality Italian pasta, or a good pasta sauce.

Italy tour packages and city day tours

While our Italy travel guide gives you plenty of tools to organize a trip your own, if you want your holiday to be just relaxing and free from all the planning hassle, here are some tour companies and websites providing great expeditions and day trips.

G Adventures

G Adventures organizes 2-week or 10-day tours to Italy striving to give an in-depth experience of the country and its society. With G Adventures, you can either book a classic tour to all the major destinations or some more location-specific trips.

Intrepid Travel

With small group tours, Intrepid Travel promises “real-life experiences”. Their tours go from 14 to as little as 4 days and cover a different range of places and activities such as a retreat in Veneto, a trip to the south from Rome to the Amalfi Coast

Take Walks – Former Walks of Italy

Take Walks is one of my favorites, I took many tours with them and all delivered plenty. They don’t organize full packages around Italy but only day tours or themed tours lasting a few hours in different cities such as Rome , Florence , Venice , and more.

With Take Walks, you can join different types of tours, from cooking classes to day trips to cultural tours to the most important landmarks of a city.

Get Your Guide

Get Your Guide (GYG) is not exactly a tour company but a website where you can book a tour from many different companies and agencies. This is why you will find a huge variety of experiences as well as ticket sales and taxi transfers.

TourRadar is similar to GYG with the difference that they feature companies offering full-package tours so trips of 2 weeks, ten days, one week, or even a month.

Useful sentences when you travel to Italy

No Italy travel guide is complete without some useful expressions you might need in Italy, especially in non-touristy areas. Here are some to remember:

• Buongiorno – Good morning
• Buonasera – Good evening
• Buonanotte – Goodnight
• Arrivederci – Goodbye
• Grazie – Thank you
• Sì/No – Yes/No
• Ciao – Hi

Check out our guide to greetings in Italian

Daily-use phrases

• Che ora è? – What time is it?
• Come stai? (informal)/Come sta? (formal) – How are you?
• Scusa/scusi/mi dispiace – I’m sorry
• Non lo so – I don’t know
• Permesso – Excuse me

Eating/At the restaurant

• Colazione – Breakfast
• Pranzo – Lunch
• Cena – Dinner
• Ristorante – Restaurant
• Forno, fornaio – Bakery
• Pasticceria – Pastry shop
• Sono vegetariano/vegano – I’m vegetarian/vegan
• Non mangio carne – I don’t eat meat
• Sono intollerante al glutine – I’m gluten-intolerant
• Sono allergico a X – I’m allergic to [whatever ingredient/food]
• Posso avere il menu per favore? – Can I have the menu, please?
• Posso avere il conto per favore? – Can I have the bill, please?
• Mancia – Tip
• Posso avere un bicchiere d’acqua per favore? – Can I have a glass of water, please?
• Liscia/Gasata – Still/Sparkling
• Dov’è il bagno? – Where is the toilet?

Don’t miss out guide to the most common Italian words for foods and drinks .

• Che strada devo prendere per raggiungere X? – How do I get to X?
• Dritto – Straight
• Destra – Right
• Sinistra – Left
• Macchina – Car
• Bici, bicicletta – Bike
• Treno – Train
• Aereo – Airplane
• Metro – Metro, subway
• Parcheggio – Parking lot
• Solo andata – Single ticket
• Andata e ritorno – Return ticket
• Dov’è il rifornitore di benzina più vicino? – Where is the closest petrol station?
• Dov’è la stazione ferroviaria/dei treni? – Where is the train station?
• Binario – Platform
• Dov’è la stazione degli autobus? – Where is the bus station?
• Questo treno/autobus ferma a X? – Does this train/bus stop at [your destination]?
• Biglietto – Ticket
• Bancomat – ATM
• Non funziona – It’s broken, it doesn’t work
• Polizia/Carabinieri – Police
• Parla inglese? – Can you speak English?
• Mi può aiutare per favore? – Can you help me, please?
• Albergo, hotel – Hotel
• Camera singola/Camera matrimoniale/Camera doppia con due letti – Single room/Double room/Twin room
• Bagaglio, valigia – Luggage, suitcase
• Contanti – Cash
• Bancomat – Debit card
• Carta di credito – Credit card
• Caro, costoso – Expensive
• Economico – Cheap
• Mercato, supermercato, negozio – Market, supermarket, shop
• Edicola – Newsagency, kiosk
• Vorrei, sto cercando – I would like, I’m looking for
• Quando costa? – How much is it?
• Ospedale – Hospital
• Pronto Soccorso – ER
• Farmacia – Pharmacy
• Febbre – Fever
• Vertigini – Dizziness
• Nausea, vomitare – Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrea – Diarrhea
• Dolore – Pain
• Ferita – Injury
• Infiammato – Inflamed/inflammation
• Bruciore di stomaco – Heartburn
• Gastroenterite – Stomach flu
• Medico, dottore – Doctor
• Pediatra – Pediatrician
• Dentista – Dentist

Important numbers to know in Italy

Here are some of the most important Italian emergency numbers :

• Police: 113
• Carabinieri: 112
• Ambulance – Health emergency: 118
• Firefighters: 115
• Street assistance – ACI: 116
• Guardia di Finanza: 117
• Viaggiare informati – information on street traffic: 1518

Do you need to book hotels and restaurants? Learn everything about the days of the week in Italian !

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As a treasure trove of artistic and historical wonders, Italy offers timeless beauty and cultural richness. In the central Tuscany region, the streets of Florence are filled with Renaissance architecture, with a skyline dominated by the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, a Gothic art masterpiece. Within the northern Lombardy region, the fashion mecca, Milan, offers an abundance of art galleries and museums, with the most sought-after sight being The Last Supper, a mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea in the central Lazio region, Rome is home to the ancient Colosseum, an amphitheater that played host to gladiatorial games, and the Pantheon, a former Roman temple. Perched atop cliffs that overlook the Bay of Naples in the southwestern Campania region, the coastal town of Sorrento is known for its lemon groves, notably some of the best lemons in Italy, they are used to produce the splendor that is Limoncello, a lemon-flavored Italian liqueur. Take a gondola ride through the romantic canals of Venice to explore one of the most unique cities in the world, built on more than 100 islands in the northeastern Veneto region. Savor the sweet symphony of Italy's gastronomic legacy and culinary mastery that spans centuries, with authentic Italian gelato, pasta, and pizza.

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• Plan Your 7-Day Trip to Italy 2024 (5 Top Itineraries)

If you are a first-time visitor to Italy, with 7 days for your trip, you should consider its top three cities — Rome, Florence, and Venice in central/northern Italy. Classic itineraries include two or three of them.

If you are not a first-timer or want to explore something different, we recommend two further itineraries covering Italy's southern coastal regions and islands.

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• 1. Rome, Florence, and Venice
• 2. Rome and Florence
• 3. Rome and Venice
• 4. Rome and the Amalfi Coast

1. Rome, Florence, and Venice 7-Day Itinerary (the Classic for First-Timers)

• Days 1–2: Venice (city sightseeing with a boat ride and a special Aperitivo food tour)
• Days 3–4: Florence (visit artistic heritage with a food tour)
• Days 5–6: Rome (visit classic attractions including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican)
• Day 7: Departure

This is a time-smart itinerary for seeing the best of Italy in a limited 7 days. If you are a first-time visitor to Italy and want to get a fast understanding of the country, you could take this itinerary into consideration.

Sightseeing in the three cities is mainly comprised of walking tours. By strolling through the streets and interacting with locals, you could better immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city and also check out the must-see landmarks. A pair of comfortable shoes would be essential.

Your local guide would design the best walking routes and tell you the stories and history behind the architecture. You could also ask your guide any questions about aspects you are interested in, including Italian customs, culture, and daily life.

Besides experiencing its history, you could also have some culinary experiences. In Florence, explore the renowned San Lorenzo Food Market to taste traditional Florence food. In Venice, explore different bars along the lagoons to enjoy Venetian aperitifs (wines and local snacks).

Feel free to contact us if you are interested in this itinerary. All of our tours can be adjusted/customized based on your requirements.

2. 7-Day Rome and Florence Itinerary (for Couples)

• Days 1–3: Rome (visit ancient Rome and go city sightseeing)
• Day 4: Rome to Florence by high-speed train
• Days 5–6: Florence (city sightseeing with trips to towns for wine and well-preserved medieval architecture)

This itinerary is recommended for couples, especially retired couples, as it is more relaxed, and besides the history and cultural experiences, you would have the opportunity to explore some rural towns for wine tasting, rustic scenery, and some private time.

During the touring in Rome and Florence, you would visit historical ruins, museums, galleries, and squares to learn about Italy's history and culture, as well as its food culture through a food tour.

The special feature of this tour, which is highly recommended for couples, is going to small towns in Tuscany to spend some peaceful and leisurely time.

You would enjoy a leisurely stroll in San Gimignano to discover its medieval towers. Then, go to Chianti to explore a family-run winery and have a tasting paired with local delicacies.

3. Rome and Venice in 7 Days (for Families)

• Days 1–3: Rome (visit historical ruins, squares, a chapel, and the Vatican)
• Day 4: Rome to Venice by high-speed trains
• Days 5–6: Venice (city sightseeing with a boat ride and island-hopping with an experience to witness glassblowing)

This itinerary is suitable for families with children.

The itinerary features two Italian cities — Rome for history and culture and Venice for family-friendly activities. The pace of the trip is easy with only one change of hotel. It is family-friendly, especially if you take a lot of luggage.

In Rome, explore its iconic landmarks including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, piazzas, etc. accompanied by your local guide. Your guide would share the history with a simple and lively explanation.

In Venice, take a family gondola ride to learn about the charm of this City of Water. Besides the city sightseeing, go island-hopping to Murano (famous for glassmaking) and Burano (renowned for its colorful houses). Kids could witness the glassblowing process firsthand and they could also take a lot of beautiful Instagram pictures.

All our tours can be adjusted based on your requirements. Feel free to contact us .

4. 7 Days in Rome and the Amalfi Coast

• Days 1–3: Rome (explore old Rome and take a walking tour of the squares)
• Days 4–6: The Amalfi Coast (explore two seaside towns)

If you not only want to experience the cultural charm of Italy but also have an interest in Italy's coastal scenery and a desire for a relaxing vacation, you could consider this itinerary.

In Rome, immerse yourself in the splendid remnants of the ancient Roman Empire by exploring landmarks including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Discover artistic and architectural masterpieces, such as the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

After experiencing Italy's profound historical culture, head to the picturesque Amalfi Coast. With your private driver and guide by your side, visit Positano and Ravello, two iconic coastal towns. There, enjoy leisurely strolls and take in the sights of historical buildings, gardens, and the magnificent coastline.

If you are interested in this itinerary, you can check more details in our 7-Day Rome and Amalfi Coast Tour . Our tours can be adjusted based on your requirements or we can also customize an itinerary according to your idea. Just contact us .

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5. Sicily in 1 Week

• Days 1–3: Palermo (city sightseeing with some beach time)
• Days 4–6: Taormina (city highlights, a trip to a volcano, and free time for exploration)

If you would be making a return trip to Italy or you would prefer to explore the culture and scenery of southern Italy, then this itinerary is one to consider.

Explore two iconic towns in Sicily — Palermo and Taormina.

In Palermo, visit the must-see landmark, the Cathedral of Palermo, to see how many cultural styles collide. Appreciate the stunning panorama of Palermo against the backdrop of the sea from the top of Monte Pellegrino. Explore the bustling Arab-influenced open-air market. And head to the beach at Mondello for some relaxation time.

In Taormina, take a half-day walking tour to explore the highlights. Explore the well-preserved ancient Greek theater and the Cathedral of Taormina, dating back to the 13th century. Wander along the medieval main street — Corso Umberto, enjoy some gelato, and explore the local boutiques.

For a more adventurous activity, you could climb up Mount Etna to see the lunar landscapes of Europe's highest active volcano and witness the remnants of ancient lava flows.

If you are interested in a trip to Sicily, you could see our 7-Day Best of Sicily Tour .

Tour Italy with Us

All our tours can be customized or adjusted based on your interests and needs. Feel free to tell us your requirements . Our travel consultant will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and promptly and prepare the best tour plan for you.

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Wander-Lush

20 Best Italy City Breaks for 2024

Italy was made for slow travel, but not everyone has the luxury of time. These 20 phenomenal Italian cities are all perfect for a short city trip of 2-3 days.

Each of the cities on this list is a year-round destination that is easy to reach by plane or train. All are walkable, and packed with wonderful things to see and do in a short period of time – from outstanding museums and Renaissance architecture, to once-in-a-lifetime foodie experiences .

Read on to discover the ideal destination for your next weekend break in Italy.

• Also see: The ultimate list of Italy’s most beautiful cities

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Quick tips for planning the perfect city break in Italy

• Use Skyscanner to search for low-cost airfares to Italy from Europe and elsewhere.
• Book your train tickets well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during summer high season. In Italy, I recommend using Omio to find and buy tickets .
• Consider an annual travel insurance policy that will cover you for multiple city breaks and save you cash in the long run. I use and recommend HeyMondo – use my link to get 5% off your policy .
• Save time when you arrive by pre-purchasing an eSIM for Europe that will automatically activate when you touch down. I recommend using the Airalo marketplace to buy an eSIM (prices start from just 4.50 USD).
• To make the most of a short city break, consider a guided walking tour. Viator is the best online marketplace for unique city tours and cultural experiences in Italy and the rest of Europe. Below, you will find specific tour links for each of the cities mentioned.
• If you want to go beyond the city for a Tuscan wine tasting or alpine hiking, hire a car to make efficient use of your time. I recommend using the Discover Cars website to find a great deal.

20 of the best Italy city breaks

Capital of Tuscany and one of the most classically beautiful cities in Italy , Florence needs no introduction. Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is brimming with fascinating architecture and art and is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Italy.

This is an all-year city that is best visited in the shoulder or low season, outside of the busy summer months. Florence is easy to reach by train from elsewhere in Italy/Europe, while Peretola International Airport makes it an ideal fly-in-fly-out destination for a short Italian city adventure.

Not that you should rush it: If you have a few more days up your sleeve, be sure to take advantage of the picture-perfect Italian landscapes, wineries and cellar doors that are in close proximity to the city centre.

Some of the best things to do in Florence in 2-3 days include:

• Climbing to the top of Il Duomo di Firenze , part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This 13th-century landmark is the main attraction in Florence, and climbing the 463 steps to the top is a must-do for panoramic city views.
• Seeing Michelangelo’s David sculpture , a symbol of the Italian Renaissance, in the flesh. The Galleria dell’Accademia is filled with more treasures so be sure to set aside ample time to explore.
• Strolling around the Boboli Gardens , designed for Florence’s famous Medici family before opening to the public in the 18th century. There are lovely statues and fountains scattered throughout the grounds.
• Photographing the carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica , one of Florence’s most picturesque squares.
• Watching the sunset from Ponte Vecchio over the glorious Arno River.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Hidden Highlights Walking Tour with skip-the-line access or full-day Florence Vespa Tour for seeing the city sights the local way.

🛎️ Where to stay: 4F Boutique Hotel Florence .

Those seeking a city escape with a bit of edge need look no further than Naples. Italy’s third-largest city is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. Its storied past combined with an interesting contemporary history makes Napoli one of the best Italy city breaks.

It’s easy to reach Naples Airport via budget carrier Wizz Air. Stay somewhere central to discover Naples by foot, or use the underground metro to make efficient use of your time (some of the stations have fabulous art installations ).

With just one day in Naples , you can take in many of the must-sees. A long weekend is recommended so you can add-on a day trip to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii or Herculaneum .

When in Naples, don’t miss:

• Browsing the Mercato La Pignasecca , a lively produce market selling everything from baked treats to fresh pasta and seafood.
• Wandering the charming Santa Chiara neighbourhood and dropping in on the medieval Monastero di Santa Chiara , which includes a church, monastery, cloisters, tombs, and an archeological museum.
• Touring the Sansevero Chapel Museum and beholding the ‘Veiled Christ’ (1753), a one-of-a-kind sculpture by Naples-born Giuseppe Sanmartino that depicts Jesus Christ draped in a marble shroud.
• Eating an authentic Napoletana pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele . At this Naples institution you can watch the Pizzaiuoli ‘pizza artists’ at work. The four-step process they take to make the world’s best pizza is so important to Naples culture, it’s even a UNESCO-listed culinary tradition .
• Feasting on sfogliatelle , the shell-shaped pastry that is famous in Campania region. Popular fillings include orange-flavoured ricotta (traditional), almond or pistachio. Pasticceria Giovanni Scaturchio has a good selection.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Naples Street Food Tour with a local expert, with ragù, baccalà, pizza and sfogliatelle tastings.

🛎️ Where to stay: Dante Maison de Charme .

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track destination for an Italian city break (whether that be in winter or summer – it’s beautiful year-round!), look no further than Perugia, the capital of Umbria. Sitting between Rome and Florence, Perugia can be visited as an add-on to a break in either city, or as a standalone destination. 

With stunning winding city streets leading out to incredible lookouts over the city (and all of Umbria), this university town is teeming with fantastic restaurants and bars, offering a taste of local life.

While it’s not as ‘bucket-list’ as more famous Italian cities such as Venice and Rome, there are a few excellent things to do in Perugia, and it’s ideal for eating some rich and hearty Italian food (Umbria’s a foodie destination, and its epicentre is Perugia!) and enjoying Aperol spritzes and local Umbrian wines under a sunny sky. 

Plus, Perugia has an international airport, with flights from several European capitals. By road, it’s just a two-hour journey from either Rome or Florence. 

The best things to do in Perugia include:

• Visiting the National Gallery of Umbria . A must for art connoisseurs, the National Gallery of Umbria houses one of the best art collections in all of Italy. It’s also the only gallery in the country that’s located in the municipal government’s building, which means the architecture is phenomenal!
• Enjoying the Umbria Jazz Festival . It takes place every year in summer and is one of the most significant events in this part of Italy. More information about the festival here .
• Visiting the Casa del Cioccolato . Umbria doesn’t mess around when it comes to food, and one of Perguia’s staples is chocolate. You can learn all about Umbrian chocolate, with tastings and talks, at Casa del Cioccolato .
• Taking a side trip to Assisi . The UNESCO World Heritage town of Assisi is a short drive from Perugia; it’s where Saint Francis, one of Italy’s patron saints, was both born and buried, and remains an Italian pilgrimage site to this day.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Hot Air Balloon Ride over Perugia , for the best views of the city and the Perugian countryside.

🛎️ Where to stay: Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel .

By Claire from Europe in Winter

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the medieval city of Siena is a gem of Italian culture and history. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, lively piazzas and mouth-watering cuisine, Siena is the perfect destination for a short trip to Italy.

With its compact size and walkable streets, you can easily explore all that this charming city has to offer in just a few days.

Siena can be reached by air or train from Florence, with a journey time of just over an hour. While Siena is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

There are so many wondrous things to see and do in Siena. Here are a few must-see sites that should be on every traveller’s list:

• Wandering the Piazza del Campo – this 13th-century square is the heart of Siena and one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. The large square is famous for its distinctive shell shape and being home to the Palio di Siena horse race, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages.
• Visiting the Siena Duomo – this stunning Gothic cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian architecture and a must-visit for art and history lovers. The cathedral is home to many works of art, including frescos by Pinturicchio and sculptures by Donatello. The highlight, however, is the Libreria Piccolomini , a library filled with frescos and ancient manuscripts.
• Indulging in the heavenly flavours of freshly made Pici pasta , the city’s specialty dish that originated in Siena. Enjoy a leisurely meal at Osteria da Divo , a restaurant that lies in a series of carved-out medieval vaults under the Duomo.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Siena Duomo and City Walking Tour , with skip-the-line privileges at the cathedral.

🛎️ Where to stay: Villa Scacciapensieri Boutique Hotel .

By Renee from Dream Plan Experience

If you like your city breaks with a side of spectacular nature, Bergamo should be on your wish-list. Nestled in northern Italy’s scenic Lombardy region, Bergamo is only 30 kilometres from the Swiss border and a day trip’s distance from Como, Garda and Maggiore lakes.

The Bergamo Alps provide a backdrop to the city centre and are tantalisingly close if you have time for a day hike .

Bergamo is notorious for being one of the chilliest places in Italy in winter , thus summer or shoulder season is a fine time to visit. It doesn’t get as crowded here as in other cities – plus you can always escape to nature if you need some reprieve. Bergamo shares Il Caravaggio International Airport with Milan, and is only a 20-minute drive away.

Spend your days in Bergamo indulging in the following activities:

• Wandering the cobblestoned streets of the old walled city, Città Alta , which towers over the lower part of the city. The defensive walls were built by the Venetians and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Admiring the gilded icons and lavish tapestries inside the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore , the 12th century church that is the heart and soul of Bergamo.
• Browsing the Accademia Carrara , the city’s finest art museum-academy that was established in 1780 and holds an exquisite collection of works by Botticelli, El Grecco and others.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: 2.5-hour walking tour , focusing on the historic Upper Town and accompanied by a private guide.

🛎️ Where to stay: GombitHotel .

Milan is a bustling city in Northern Italy known for its business and fashion scene.  Modern skyscrapers mixed in with historic buildings make this city different from all the others in Italy.

Milan makes for the perfect quick trip in Italy because you can see most of the must-sees in just 1-2 days. It’s also easily reachable by train or plane.  Milano Centrale is the main train station in Milan and has many high-speed connections.  There are two airports, making it easy for travellers to fly in and out of the city from all over. Malpensa Airport is the main international airport and Linate is the smaller airport, mostly used for domestic or European flights.

The best time of the year to visit Milan is spring and early fall.  Summers can get very hot in Milan and winters can get quite cold.

Here are some of the must-see things to do in Milan. These are great if you’re travelling to Milan with kids or without!

• Visiting the centre of Milan, Piazza del Duomo . Here you’ll find the stunning gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Milano . For some of the best views of the city and to see its incredible architecture up close, head to the Duomo’s rooftop terrace.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery. Come here to shop, eat and enjoy the stunning architecture.
• Viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting, ‘The Last Supper’ .
• Grabbing a coffee and a pastry and enjoying the atmosphere at the only Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Europe .

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Skip the line at the Milan Duomo & The Last Supper , two of Milan’s must-sees accompanied by an expert guide.

🛎️ Where to stay: Galleria Vik Milano .

By Kim Swanson from Traveling Swansons

One of the most unique (and convenient) city breaks in Italy would have to be the Sicilian city of Catania. As the second-largest city on this southern Italian island , Catania is home to Sicily’s highest-traffic airport and boasts countless flight connections across Italy and the rest of Europe – meaning it’s very easy to reach.

Though this city is often outshined by Palermo, Catania is an excellent addition to any trip to Sicily and makes for the perfect stand-alone destination as well. Charming cafes, pottery studios and other artisan souvenir boutiques , gorgeous churches – Catania has it all.

Because it is located in southern Italy, Catania is a great year-round destination. If you want to beat the crowds while still making the most of the beautiful weather, visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-November is ideal.

Some of the top things to do on a trip to Catania include:

• Visiting the Catania Fish Market , where you can see vendors hawking freshly caught seafood and other local produce. There are also some great restaurants (such as Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab ) where you can try some of the local specialties. 
• Taking in the view from the dome of the Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata . Here, you can get an incredible panoramic view of Catania and, on a clear day, imposing Mount Etna in the distance.
• Sampling Catanese and Sicilian fare such as pasta alla norma, arancini, pasta con le sarde and much, much more.
• Going on a day trip to nearby Taormina, Siracusa or Mt Etna .

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Catania Street Food Walking Tour , visiting the historic fish market and vibrant Benedettini neighbourhood.

🛎️ Where to stay: Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel .

By Maggie from The World Was Here First

The handsome port city of Genoa is the gateway to Liguria’s Italian Riviera. Steeped in history and showcasing an abundance of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture, this is definitely one for the history buffs.

Genoa has a long history of maritime exploration and is famous for being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Between the 12th and 15th centuries, Genoa was one of the world’s most prosperous and prolific empires, forging Genovese colonies all over the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions, including in the Spanish city of Cadiz, in Lisbon , and as far afield as Romania .

Being a coastal city, Genoa is quite seasonal so it’s a good idea to visit in either late spring or early autumn when most businesses remain open. Fly into either Genoa or Milan Linate airports, or consider arriving and departing from Nice, which is only 3 hours from Genoa by car.

Add these experiences to your Genoa list:

• Delve into the historical centre, Le Strade Nuove , and get lost down the narrow cobbled laneways known locally as caruggi .
• Tour the magnificent University of Genoa , one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe with a history that goes back to the 15th century.
• Visit the Lighthouse of Genoa and discover more about the city’s history at the small museum inside.
• If it’s warm enough, paddle your feet in the Ligurian Sea. Boccadasse Beach is a popular swimming spot where you can lounge in the shadow of Genoa sea district’s fabulous coloured houses.
• Eat your bodyweight in Genovese pesto , a local specialty made with extra virgin olive oil from the groves around Liguria.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Genoa Walking Tour , six hours of hidden treasures and street food treats.

🛎️ Where to stay: Grand Hotel Savoia .

Located right at the border with Slovenia , in the northeast part of Italy, Trieste is a bit different from other cities in the country. But that’s what makes it such a unique place to visit.

For centuries, Trieste was at a crossroads, under various influences and rulers, and only became part of Italy in 1954. Today you can still enjoy the multicultural and cosmopolitan vibe the city has always been known for. This is a perfect destination for an alternative Italian city break.

The city has its own airport, but still the easiest way to get here is via Venice. You can also take the train to Trieste from Ljubljana , the nearby capital of Slovenia.

The best time to visit Trieste is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is good for sightseeing and you can enjoy long, warm days.

The best things to do in Trieste include:

• Sitting down in one of many historical cafes and enjoying the local cafe culture , a true legacy of the Habsburg heritage of Trieste.
• Admiring the Piazza Unità d’Italia , one of the most beautiful main squares in Italy.
• Taking in the best panorama of Trieste from the 16th-century Castello di San Giusto.
• Visiting the fairytale-like Miramare Castle built for Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian Habsburg in the mid-19th century.
• Finding Roman ruins – the best ones are Teatro Romano and the Roman arch.
• Trying the local food, a mix of Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian cuisines . Local dishes include jota (a stew), chifeletti (a dough-like mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and eggs), and goulash alla Triestina (a local variation of the Hungarian goulash minus the peppers).
• Hopping across the border to visit Piran and Slovenia, an easy side trip from Trieste.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Discover Trieste on Foot , a short, private walking tour customised to your interests.

🛎️ Where to stay: The Modernist Hotel .

By Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World

Located on the Adriatic Coast, Bari is the largest city in Apulia . While it is most popular for being the getaway to ferry routes connecting to other countries on the Mediterranean coast, the city itself is well worth a visit.

Because of its location, Bari is a great choice for a warm winter escape (although it does snow at times!). But for a superb experience, late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are the best choices.

If you visit from another European country, you’ll likely arrive here by way of Bari’s International Airport Karol Wojtyla (BRI), located just 8km from the city centre and connected to the Bari Centrale Train Station by both buses and trains. Most of the flights are seasonal, but there are some operators that fly year-round.

If, however, you fly from overseas, chances are you’ll arrive by train after flying into one of Italy’s larger airports (Rome or Milan). Bari Centrale is ideally located close to both the Old and New Town and receives a lot of domestic and international traffic. Or you may hop on a bus from another Italian city.

Prefer to drive? Rent a car once you’ve landed in Italy and enjoy the gorgeous views along its roads. Just pay attention that you need to pay tolls to use the highways.

Some of the best things to do in and around Bari include:

• Getting lost in the Old Town. Bari Vecchia has retained its medieval plan and charm. You’ll walk on small streets, meandering past old buildings, excellent places to eat, and plenty of souvenir shops. Don’t miss visiting the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and Cathedral of Saint Sabino.
• Taking a day trip to Alberobello . The trullis are part of a UNESCO Heritage Site and offer a really charming experience. Hop on a train or bus then spend the day walking among the gorgeous houses, stopping to take photos, eat, and shop for souvenirs. Matera, Locorotundo, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli are also gorgeous and within easy reach from Bari.
• Walking the Bari Lungomare . After you’ve indulged in the local staples such as focaccia or orecchiette, take a walk along the seafront promenade. Or, if you are a morning person, show up early and shop for fresh seafood.
• Staying at a hotel in the Old Town . Without a doubt, this is the best area to stay and it offers options for every budget. iH Hotels Bari Oriente is a 4-star hotel close to the train station and just 5-min walk from the seafront promenade.

⭐ Top-rated side trip: Excursion to Alberobello and Matera from Bari , to see two UNESCO Sites in one day.

🛎️ Where to stay: B&B Boutique Four Rooms .

By Cris from LooknWalk

Matera, a small city located just an hour outside of Bari, is easy to reach by bus or train. It has a fascinating history that you can easily discover with just a couple of days in Italy. 

Continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years, Matera is where residents dwelled in caves carved into the cliffside until the 1950s, when the Italian government relocated them to the upper part of the more modern town. Several decades later, the revitalisation and restoration of Matera started, turning the caves back into homes and creating hotels and restaurants.

In 1993, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its fascinating history dating to the Palaeolithic period and its unique ‘Sassi’.

You also might recognise Matera if you’ve seen films like James Bond: No Time to Die or The Passion of the Christ , as Matera is a popular filming location for its old-world look.

If possible, try to go any time other than the summer, as it is very hot and people are swarming the city.

Must-dos in Matera include:

• Touring the Casa Noha Museum , where you’ll learn more about the caves and the unique history of the town.
• Checking out the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario , a reconstruction of an 18-century cave house, where you can get a taste of what life was like in Matera long ago.
• Visiting the Park of the Rupestrian Churches , ornate churches built into the cliffside that are also under UNESCO World Heritage designation.
• Dining in a local cave trattoria , where they serve simple, delicious dishes with ingredients from the area. Southern Italy is also known for its amazing wine and olive oil, so make sure you sample those!

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private City Tour in a Classic Ape Calessino (a local tuk-tuk).

🛎️ Where to stay: Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita .

By Megan from Megan Starr

At the tip of Italy’s boot lies a patch of land surrounded by pristine Mediterranean sea. This island is renowned for great food, beautiful beaches and a slightly sordid relationship with the mafia.

Sicily is the perfect getaway in Italy and its capital, Palermo, has a wealth of history and culture alongside some of the island’s best street food and ornate churches. If you are staying a few days or planning a long extended vacation, Palermo is the very best place to stay in Sicily .

Multiple flights run daily between Palermo and Rome as well as various other major European airports. Palermo has a direct train connection from Catania, the other major hub on the island.

When visiting Palermo, be sure to add these sights to your agenda:

• Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Palatine Chapel , where a reported 6,000 tiny golden mosaics adorn the ceiling.
• Heading over to the Palermo Cathedral for the best views over the city. Admittedly, it looks much more beautiful on the outside than the inside!
• Having a gander around the historical markets Vucciria, Ballaro or Il Capo , a must for both people watching and trying some of the best Sicilian street food on offer. By night, the market stalls make room for little bars with live music and are a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.
• If you’re visiting in summer, head to the suburbs, known as Mondello, where a long stretch of sandy beach and various lidos await sunseekers and beach lovers.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: ‘The Godfather’ Origins Tour from Palerma, including Corleone and Portella della Ginestra.

🛎️ Where to stay: B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti .

By Caroline from Veggiewayfarer

One of the most beautiful places for a short city vacation in Italy is undoubtedly the city of Arezzo . The medieval old town is particularly impressive, a hidden pearl of Tuscany that should not be missed in this region.

Arezzo is only an hour’s drive southeast of Florence, making it easy and quick to reach by car or public bus.

You can visit Arezzo all year round as the city is not overly touristy. The warmer months are particularly enjoyable and not as crowded as other cities.

Arezzo has always been famous for its fine porcelain ceramics, and also for its metalwork. Handicrafts and jewellery are deeply rooted in the city’s history and once brought Arezzo great wealth and prosperity. Unbelievably, ten tons of gold are processed here every month!

A stroll through the city centre will reveal shops that sell fine jewellery and beautiful ceramics, including the world-famous Arezzo vases.

Other things to do in Arezzo include:

• Taking a walking tour through the historic centre of Arezzo .
• Visiting the Piazza Grande , the stunningly beautiful main square and a wonderful place for a coffee break. This classic Italian square slopes down at an angle, creating an almost surreal setting.
• The monthly antique market in Arezzo, one of the most famous in all of Tuscany.
• Eating dinner at Teorema del Gusto restaurant , which serves delicious handmade pasta and excellent wines.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private Pasta-making Class with wine tasting in a family kitchen.

🛎️ Where to stay: Il Piccolo Cavour Charming House B&B .

By Martina from PlacesofJuma

Rome, for a classic Italy city break in the Eternal City

Most first-time Italy city breakers will choose Rome for a long weekend away as it is easy to get to, has lots of history – making it an open-air museum – and boasts delicious food and wine.

Rome is a popular destination all year round, especially in summer, so if you want to avoid bus tours and huge crowds while you step back in time at the Colosseum, avoid May, June, July, August and September.

Fiumicino Airport (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci, is the main airport in Rome. To get to the city from the airport, consider the bus, the FL1 train, which stops at Trastevere, Ostiense, Tuscolana, and Tiburtina stations, or a private taxi.

Since you only have a short break, you will be limited in time to see everything, but that’s OK, as one of the best things to do in Rome is wander and people-watch!

Other highlights of Rome include:

• Visiting the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps . All are close to each other, so you can do your best Lizzie Mcguire coin toss and then Audrey Hepburn poses within 10 minutes of each other. 
• For art, architecture, and culture, set aside a morning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican , where you will see ‘The Creation of Adam’ by Michelangelo at the Sistine Chapel . From here, you can walk to Castel Sant’Angelo .
• Learning to whip up local delicacies – pizza, pasta and tiramisu – with one of these celebrated cooking classes in Rome .
• Visiting diverse neighbourhoods in Rome at night , including the famous Monti , stunning Trastevere , Via San Giovanni , and the less touristy Ostiense . Here you can dine, drink, and debrief all the cool things you did that day.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Gladiator Gate and Arena Floor Special Access Colosseum Tour , including fast-track entry to the Colosseum.

🛎️ Where to stay: The Liberty Boutique Hotel .

By Gemma from Two Scots Abroad Travel Guides

Viterbo is an off-the-beaten-path city located around 100 km northwest of Rome.

You can easily reach it by direct train from Roma Tiburtina or Roma Ostiense stations. The closest airport is Rome Fiumicino.

Viterbo is famous throughout Italy for its thermal baths. In fact, the hot springs are also among its most important historical landmarks. Dante Alighieri mentions in his Inferno the Bullicame spring, which flows about 1 km from the city’s historic centre.

In addition to being a perfect destination in Italy for relaxing and rejuvenating, Viterbo boasts a wonderfully preserved medieval quarter and ancient defensive walls.

The best times to visit Viterbo are spring, fall, and winter, from around October to April. That’s partially because the thermal waters that feed the spas are very hot. The Viterbo thermal baths are accessible even to travellers on any budget – some are free, others are priced at around €10-18, and the Salus Terme is an exclusive €45-per-day spa.

Mark down these must-dos:

• Exploring San Pellegrino District , starting from the Piazza San Lorenzo onto which the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes overlooks. Admission to the cathedral is free, while for the palace you pay €10 for a ticket that includes an audio guide.
• Bathing at Terme dei Papi , the most popular thermal bath in Viterbo, housing a monumental 2,000-square-metre pool and a natural steam cave.
• Swimming at Bullicame hot spring . Here there is a thermal pool that is free to use.
• Eating pizza at Restaurant il Labirinto , a traditional restaurant located in the historic centre of Viterbo.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Viterbo Private City Tour , with the Popes Tombs Conclave Palace and the Duomo.

🛎️ Where to stay: B&B dei Papi Boutique Hotel .

By Annalisa from Travel Connect Experience

Turin, capital of the Piedmont region, is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. This elegant metropolis offers a rich mix of history, art and impressive architecture, as well as delicious local cuisine, fantastic panoramas and great photo spots.

Turin is absolutely worth visiting as there’s something here for everyone! Due to its close proximity to France, it has a distinctly French feel, unique to the rest of Italy, and is often called the ‘Paris of Italy’ as a result.

In addition, Turin’s compact size makes it easy to explore in just a few days, plus it gets nowhere near the number of visitors that other Italian cities get, so it never feels crowded. That’s despite Turin being the first capital of Italy!

Turin can be reached in an hour from Milan by train or in two hours if driving. If you’re flying in, the city has its own airport.

The best time to visit Turin is in the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild.

Some of the top things to see in Turin include:

• Climbing the Mole Antonelliana . This iconic landmark tower of Turin has a panoramic terrace you can visit that offers a breathtaking view of the city.
• Touring the Royal Palace of Turin . A former residence of the House of Savoy, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts beautiful Baroque-style architecture and stunning gardens.
• Buying a ticket for the Egyptian Museum , where you can see the world’s second-largest collection of Egyptian artefacts.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Highlights of Turin Private Walking Tour , the best of the city in 2 hours with a local guide.

🛎️ Where to stay: Opera35 Suite & Studio .

By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Venice, also called ‘La Serenissima’ or the ‘City on the Water’, features on every traveller’s bucket list. The capital of Veneto region in north-east Italy, Venice’s 100 small islands and bridges can be explored solely by foot. It is most pleasant to visit during spring or early autumn.

Getting lost on the narrow calli (streets) and campi (small piazzas), crossing bridges and canals while watching gondolas glide by – this is what makes this city unique. Here, you can marvel at the beauty of world-famous attractions such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Remember not to miss out on some of the off-the-beaten-path attractions as well.

With its own airport, Venice is only a couple of hours from other European cities such as London, Amsterdam and Berlin, and is well-connected by train to cities including Paris, Vienna and Munich. 

If you only have limited time to spare, then spend 2 days in Venice , which will allow you to cover many of the best landmarks.

Here are three unmissable things to do in Venice:

• Eating Cicchetti and drinking a Venetian spritz in a traditional bacaro (local bar). Al Mercà is one of the most loved bacari among locals and is close to the Rialto Bridge.
• Enjoying spectacular views of the city and the Grand Canal from Fondaco dei Tedeschi , a rooftop terrace located on the former trading headquarters of German merchants.
• Taking a boat trip to visit Murano, Burano and Torcello or any of the other beautiful Italian islands in the Venetian lagoon.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Venice In a Day , visiting the Basilica San Marco and the Doges Palace, finishing with a Gondola ride.

🛎️ Where to stay: Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo .

By Maddy from Venice Travel Tips

For a sweet weekend break in Italy, consider visiting the city of Como in the Northern Lombardy region. Como is easily reachable by direct train from Milan, with Malpensa as the most convenient airport.

It’s suitable for a short visit as you can truly see and enjoy the city of Como in just a short few days, with enough time to squeeze in some Lake Como enjoyment, too. 

The spring months of April and May are the best time to visit Como. In spring, the city is not too busy with tourists, all local activities are open, and the weather is already warm (19°C on average). 

Como offers a good balance of things to see and do for those travelling alone, with loved ones or with friends. For example:

• Hiking in the hills for a view above Como . The most popular route is to first take the Como-Brunate funicular then hike to Faro Voltiano and to the peak of Monte Boletto.
• Checking out some of the many local Italian restaurants serving fresh dishes – think fish, pizzas and of course pastas. The restaurants surrounding the Piazza Alessandro Volta are great options (especially Vintage Jazz Food & Wine ).
• Taking a relaxing boat trip on Lake Como . You can either take a local boat one-way to one of the many villages then take a bus back, or enjoy an official boat tour. Buy tickets on the same day from the main ferry terminal.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Lugano and Bellagio Cruise from Como , a full day on the lake.

🛎️ Where to stay: Suites&Atelier Lake Como .

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Verona is a charming city located in northern Italy’s Veneto region. Known worldwide as the city of love (thanks to William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet ), Verona is the perfect romantic getaway in Italy for couples.

The city is easily accessible by train, with the Verona Porta Nuova train station connecting to major Italian cities including Milan, Venice, and Florence. Alternatively, the Verona Villafranca Airport offers direct flights from many European cities.

The best time to visit Verona is shoulder season, particularly in April and May, before the summer crowds descend.

Here are some key things to do in Verona:

• Seeing an opera performance at the Verona Arena . This Roman amphitheatre dates back to the first century and is one of the world’s most well-preserved ancient structures. It is now used for concerts and operas in the summer months.
• Exploring Piazza delle Erbe . This lively square is the heart of Verona’s historic centre and features colourful buildings, outdoor cafes, and a daily market. Grab a dessert, sit at the fountain and watch the visitors pass by.
• Admiring Juliet’s Balcony . The balcony where Romeo supposedly declared his love to Juliet is located in a small courtyard near Piazza delle Erbe. Visitors can leave love notes on the walls and take photos on the balcony. However, this area can get quite busy and depending on when you go, there might be a short line.
• Trying the local cuisine . Verona is famous for its hearty food, including dishes such as risotto all’Amarone, which goes perfectly with a glass of local Valpolicella wine.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: The Verona Food, Wine & History Tour , with lunch or a sunset aperitif and a skip-the-line cable car ride.

🛎️ Where to stay: Relais Balcone di Giulietta .

By Diana from Travels in Poland

Parma, one of the best Italy city breaks for foodies

One of the things we love most about Italy is good food, right? Located in the northern Emilia-Romagna Region, Parma boasts some of the most beautiful sights, sounds, and specialty foods in Italy. One of the best non-touristy places in Italy , Parma is the perfect weekend break destination for foodies.

Several trains run daily and can take you from Bologna to Parma in under an hour. The city is easy to navigate and has a laid-back atmosphere. The historic centre is particularly charming, with narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings and hidden courtyards that add to its allure.

As a city, Parma has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Its architecture perfectly blends Romanesque and Gothic styles – but the real draw to Parma is its gastronomy. The city is famous for its culinary excellence and is home to some of the most renowned Italian delicacies, like Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Parma ham and balsamic vinegar.

Don’t miss these food-focused Parma activities:

• Taking a full-day guided tour of a Parmigiano Reggiano factory , a Prosciutto di Parma facility, and a Balsamic Vinegar manufacturer to explore the regional specialties. You’ll learn about how each product is produced before having an opportunity to taste them for yourself.
• If you want a more in-depth look at how to use the city’s famous ingredients in your own dishes back home, take a cooking class in the city centre. You’ll learn how to make traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes with a local home chef.
• If you’re a theatre lover, you must watch an opera at the historic Teatro Regio . Built starting in 1821, the opera house is considered one of the most influential homes of Italian opera–alongside more famous counterparts like Teatro La Scala in Milan or Teatro La Fenice in Venice.
• Finally, walk off some of that food with a long stroll around the University of Parma’s Orto Botanico di Parma Botanical Gardens .

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private Full Day Parma Food Tour , for an in-depth insight into the history of Parmesan cheese, Parma ham and vinegar.

🛎️ Where to stay: Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati .

By Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

3 things to pack for a city break in Italy

• A travel raincoat – this reversible poncho packs down small and is great for travel.
• Comfortable walking shoes – I swear by my Whiten Minimalist Barefoot Shoes .
• Wing Wings – I love these handy bottle protectors for bringing home Italian wine, vinegar or olive oil!

Italy essentials

Here are some helpful websites and resources you can use to organise your trip to Italy.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Italy on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Italy online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Italy on Booking.com .

CAR HIRE: Find the best price on a hire car in mainland Italy or Sicily using Discover Cars .

DAY TOURS: Book skip-the-line tickets, city tours and day excursions in Italy using Viator .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best food tours and cooking classes in Italy on Cookly (use the promocode EMILYLUSH to get 10% off).

More ideas for Italy

• The best Airbnbs in Italy – local accommodation for your city break
• 10-day Italy itineraries – extend your trip
• Guide to the Aeolian Islands – my favourite destination in Italy
• What to buy in Sicily – Sicilian souvenir guide
• Europe by train – itineraries for Italy and beyond
• Winter road trips in Europe – scenic drives in Italy and elsewhere

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The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como and the culture, art and beauty of Florence and Rome, to the epic views along the Amalfi Coast and traditional Italian towns of Puglia, this Italy road trip has it all!

Road tripping past vineyards, dramatic coastlines and historic cities sounds like a pretty perfect holiday doesn’t it? When it comes to European holidays, Italy is always one of my top recommendations. I love the views, the buzz, the people. And don’t get me started on the food – I mean, delicious Italian cuisine for brekky, lunch and dinner? That’s enough of a reason to visit in itself! 

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, food or fashion, a trip to Italy will no doubt appeal. Spend leisurely days floating beneath the Rialto Bridge in Venice on a gondola, window shopping in Milan’s boutiques, standing where gladiators once fought in the Roman Colosseum or staying in a traditional Trulli house in Puglia.

And the best part about an Italy road trip? The freedom! You don’t have to stick to the obvious routes. While I’ve created an Italy itinerary on the maps below, I’d encourage veering off course from time to time. That’s when you’ll find the hidden gems, the towns the tourists don’t know about, and no doubt some delicious Italian food too.

It’s also worth remembering that some of the interior parts of the country are as pretty as the coasts, with vineyards, sunflower fields and gorgeous hilltop towns. Going on a road trip means you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

So, rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided it into a northern Italy road trip and a southern Italy road trip. That way you can just pick one and break the country up into manageable chunks. Got a while? Join the two up and continue down the coast from Rome to Milan.

Click through to take a look at each itinerary, and figure out which one is right for you…

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying traditional pasta in Puglia, to enjoying lake views in northern Italy and the incredible canals of Venice, it's time to plan the ultimate Italy road trip! 

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my Italy road trip itineraries! Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are…

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later… 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I am obsessed with Italy! I really want to visit Milan and Lake Como so I think that will be my next trip! xoxo Jess

Hey Jess – that’s a great route to take and super easy! I’ve just got back from Trentino which is also stunning!

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10 Days in Italy, 3 Itineraries for First Time Visitors

Every Italian city is a world apart: each place has its own history, customs, food, and stories to tell so you would need a very long time to explore the entire country and to get to know it thoroughly. Anyway, if you just have 10 days for your trip to Italy, you won’t be deceived: thanks to the quick transport and the relative closeness of the main tourist attractions, you’ll live a wonderful Italian experience.

Let’s see how you can organize your next trip to Italy!

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10 days in Italy: 3 itineraries

Italy itinerary #1: rome – florence – tuscany – cinque terre – venice.

Spending ten days in Italy is a great way to get a gist of what the country can offer – from Rome to Florence to Venice. This Italy itinerary starts and ends in Rome, but you’ll get enough time to explore the country in ten days. Here’s an itinerary to help you plan your trip and see all the main attractions that Italy has to offer.

Best time to go: September and October to enjoy the atmosphere of Autumn, especially in Venice, which will also be less crowded.  

Day 1 Arrive in Rome

How to get from and to the airport in rome.

Rome has two airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino.

To find the cheapest flight options from your city, you can use the search form below

From/to Fiumicino airport:

Fiumicino airport is only 26 km away from Rome.

Train: The Leonardo Express is a direct train that connects Fiumicino airport and Termini Station in Rome in 30 minutes. Tickets cost 14 euros each way. Remember to validate your ticket in the machine before entering the train. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes. Regional FL1 Train connects the airport with other stations in Rome (not Termini) like Tiburtina. From there you can take the metro to the city center. The tickets cost 8 euros. You will need another ticket for the metro (1,50 euros) Remember to validate your ticket in the machine before entering the train. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes.

Shuttle Bus: The cheapest way to travel between Fiumicino airport and Rome’s city center is by a shuttle bus that makes 2 stops in the center (Termini Station and Piazza Cavour near the Vatican). Journey time 55 minutes depending on traffic. Tickets cost 6 € one way and you can buy them online.

Book your shuttle bus from and to Fiumicino airport here.

Taxi: You will find taxi stands outside all the airport terminals. Always use the official taxi services and do not take offers from drivers inside the terminal. There is a fixed price of 48 € each way.

Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Pick Ups The easiest and most comfortable way to get to the city center is by a private transfer service like Welcome Pick Ups . It costs exactly the same as a regular taxi, only now you will have already prepaid for it, your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it, a bottle of water and a city map. You will not have to worry at all about the language as all drivers speak English. There is a fixed price of 48 € each way.

Click here for more information and to book your trip.

From/to Ciampino airport:

Shuttle Bus:

The cheapest way to travel between Ciampino airport and Rome’s city center is by a shuttle bus that makes a stop at Termini Station. Journey time is 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Tickets cost 5 € one way and you can buy them online.

Book your shuttle bus from and to Ciampino airport here.

Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Pick Ups

The easiest and most comfortable way to get to the city center is by a private transfer service like Welcome Pick Ups . It costs exactly the same as a regular taxi, only now you will have already prepaid for it, your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it, a bottle of water and a city map. You will not have to worry at all about the language as all drivers speak English. There is a fixed price of 46 € each way.

Click here for more information and to book your private transfer.

Your first day will be your arrival in Rome and I recommend settling down in the hotel, unpacking, and relaxing a little bit before you embark on your mission of exploration around Italy. Settle in your hotel, and then spend a little bit of time exploring the neighborhood…After all, nothing is better than getting lost in a quintessential Italian neighborhood!

Where to stay in Rome

R oyal Rooms – Via Del Corso : You could stay at Royal Rooms which is about 201m away from Via Margutta and enjoys all types of amenities – from shopping, nearby plazas, cafes, and things to do, along with amenities like a bidet, shower, hairdresser and much more. – Check here for the latest prices and more details. Palazzo Medusa : Located just outside Palazzo Medusa, this property is one of the best in Rome and is a lot of people’s top pick there. Not only do you get a large TV, bathroom, hairdryer, and more, but you also get to enjoy a wonderful gastronomic experience, bike rental, and super comfy beds! – Check here for the latest prices and more details. Navona Colors Hotel The thing about Navona is that it sells well and it sells fast. It’s an incredible choice for travelers – there is the food, the city walks around, and bike rental. But there’s also the unbeatable location of being 192 m from Piazza Navona. You’ll thoroughly enjoy the Baroque architecture of the hotel.- Check here for the latest prices and more details. Piazza Del Gesu Luxury Suites This is where comfort and slide go hand in hand, and the hotel itself has a hard to competing with the location. Located directly on the Piazza Navona, this hotel is a 5-minute walk away from history – the Pantheon… You’ll also enjoy free city views, free WI-FI, furnishings, and everything you need.- Check here for the latest prices and more details.

You might be interested in: Where to stay in Rome by a local.

An afternoon stroll to Piazza Navona – Head over to the Piazza Navona, a gorgeous piazza peppered with Baroque palaces, shops, cafes, and lavish fountains. The piazza has an unmistakable 17th-century vibe and you can check out the Egyptian obelisk, and the different fountains!

Head over to Piazza di Spagna – Piazza di Spagna is known for its charming vibe that takes over you with its drenched-in-golden-hues buildings, romantic steps, and iconic fountains. Add to this an unstoppable bustling vibe and you’ve got yourself an enchanting place to be in.

Fontana di Trevi – Whether you have 10 days in Italy or two, the Fontana di Trevi is one of Italy’s iconic symbols. Despite the fact that you will be elbowing your way through hoards of tourists, the view of the magical fountains with their Baroque art, sculptures, and figures is enough to make you fall in love.

Piazza del Popolo –  Eccentric, harmonious, and quite enchanting – the Piazza del Popolo is an effortless blend of Egyptian, Spanish and Italian architecture all mixed together. You’ll find orientalist influences throughout the piazza juxtaposed with the remains of a Roman church.

Day 2 Rome – Florence

On your second day out of the ten-day Italy itinerary, you’ll be heading to Florence, one of the most quintessentially beautiful European cities. Head over to Rome’s Termini Station so you can take the train to Florence. Of course, the earlier you book your ticket, the better the price is going to end up being!

Take the fast train from Roma Termini to Firenze S M Novella which takes an hour and 30 minutes. For more information check here.

Where to stay in Florence

Tourist House Battistero This 15th-century structure now serves as a beautiful hotel located near the Ponte Vecchio and the famous Scudieri café. The rooms give you a wonderful view of the city’s iconic buildings – Check here for the latest prices and more details. C-Hotels Ambasciatori This 4-star hotel is located near many local popular attractions. It’s a very modern and chic hotel in the midst of all the history surrounding it  –  Check here for the latest prices and more details. Plaza Hotel Lucchesi This elegant 4-star hotel was built in 1860 and is located near the Arno River. This hotel gives you a fantastic view of the city. – Check there for the latest prices and more details. C-Hotels Joy Located near the Santa Maria Novella, this hotel mixes both modern and traditional elements together. It’s also located near the train station which can help make traveling around the city easier. – Check here for the latest prices and more details.

After you arrive in Florence, take an hour to settle in the hotel, maybe have something to eat and then get ready to explore the city with unparalleled charm and beauty.

Here are the most popular tours and excursions for you in Florence:

Top-5 popular tours in Florence

• 🏰 Florence is like an open-air museum, and it can be difficult to know where to start, so prioritize your time in this tour of the main artistic treasures to visit – Accademia, Duomo Climb and Cathedral
• 🍷 Visit 2 top-rated wineries in the famed Chianti Classico region, tour the cellars and learn how wine is produced using traditional methods on this tour Florence
• 🍕 Learn to make pizza and gelato during this culinary experience on a Tuscan estate near Florence, perfect for lovers of culture and cuisine
• 🖼️ Bypass the long wait and make the most of your visit to the world-famous Uffizi Gallery in Florence with a guided tour
• 🏰 Check off the best bits of Italy’s Renaissance capital on this comprehensive walking tour of Florence

Duomo Complex – The Duomo complex soars magnificently over the city with its Renaissance dome dominating the skyline, ready to allure you in every way. It is one of the biggest churches in the world and the mixture of Renaissance and Gothic architecture along with the intricate marble spires and statues is enough to keep you amused for a while!

Tip: There is a dress code to enter the church. Women must wear clothes covering their knees and their elbows. Men must wear long trousers.

Tip: The queues to enter the Duomo and to climb the Cupola are long and you might have to wait for hours to enter. A great way to skip the lines is by taking a guided tour or if you are using the Firenze Card (The Firenze Card works like a three-day fast pass to your favorite attractions. This is a great option for visitors trying to pack as much sightseeing into a Florence vacation as it lets them skip the long queue lines at most of the most popular sites. It is a great buy if you are staying in Firenze for 3 days).

Here are some recommended tours of the Duomo: Duomo Guided Tour & Reserved Cupola Access Guided Tour of the Duomo Including the Rooftop and View of the Terraces

Piazza del Republica – Head over to what was the ancient forum of the original Roman settlement. You’ll find reflections of the old Roman military encampment, you’ll get to revel in the neoclassical pieces, relish some delicious coffee by outdoor cafes or explore the different basilicas.

Fontana del Porcellino –  This square is famous mostly for one thing – its Wild Boar statue. If you have 10 days in Italy, you definitely have time to the bronze boar and take pictures! Legend has it that the boar enjoys magic powers…

Piazza della Signoria – If you have an hour in Florence, then spend it in Piazza della Signoria. A striking square that dominates Florence, this square is peppered with gorgeous statues that hold mythical legends, and tourists flock to see the Neptune Fountain, the Uffizi Gallery, and copies of Michelangelo statues.

Ponte Vecchio – What is Italy without its picturesque, postcard-worthy bridges? Florence itself is a painting that has come to life, but the Ponte Vecchio is exactly what you’d expect to see in a postcard. A charming, simple bridge that holds thousands of years of history, the bridge remains unchanged since the Roman crossing.

Basilica di Santa Croce – Marble intertwined with a neo-Gothic façade and Franciscan architecture – the Basilica is quite simply a work of art. The church is mostly known for the tombs of Galileo Galilei, Michelangelo, and Ghiberti along with some incredible frescoes by Giotto! The Basilica was recently closed because of an accident.

Day 3 Explore Florence

Your journey to Florence in the 10-day Italy itinerary is still not over. On the third day, you’ll get to explore the art and cultural side of Florence.

Galleria dell’Accademia – An unparalleled collection of Florentine paintings that span from the 13th until the 18th century, this gallery contains frescoes that were supposed to have decorated Michelangelo’s tomb, along with breath-taking statues, frescoes, and sculptures.

Tip: There are usually long queues for the Accademia. To save time you can either buy a timed entrance ticket beforehand or book a guided tour.

Here are some suggestions: Timed Entrance Ticket to the Accademia Skip the Long Queue with a Guided Tour of the Accademia

Uffizi – Uffizi’s collection is incredibly vast, rich, and diverse, so you might need to free yourself for a few hours so you can fully enjoy the grandeur of the gallery. There are over 45 halls with artwork spread amongst them, so a visit to this prominent museum would include Renaissance art, paintings by Michelangelo, controversial pieces, and more.

Tip: The queues for the Uffizi are long. To save time you can either buy a timed entrance ticket beforehand or book a guided tour.

Here are some great options: Timed Entrance Ticket to the Uffizi Skip the long queue with a guided tour of the Uffizi If you are planning to visit both the Uffizi and the Accademia you might be interested in this: See the Uffizi and Accademia with a skip the line guided tour

Palazzo Pitti – The Palazzo Pitti is the largest museum in Florence, and despite the fact that you’ll be visiting it right after Uffizi, you’ll still want to explore all that it has to offer. This is where you’ll get to explore the most exclusive forms of Renaissance art.

Watch the sunset from Piazza Michelangelo – The Piazzale Michelangelo is world-renowned for the stunning vistas it offers of Florence and the surroundings. In the morning, you get to see the major attractions and at night you get to see the flickering lights of Florence. The best view if of course, the sunset view where you even have the chance of seeing monks sing and chant right before the sunset.

You might be interested in: How to spend 2 days in Florence. 

Day 4 Tuscany Villages or Cinque Terre

One of my favorite things about Italy is how compact the entire country is, and taking day trips from one city to another is as easy as taking the metro from one attraction to the other. On your fourth day out of your ten days in Italy, I recommend that you take a day trip to either San Gimignano, Siena, and  Chianti visiting some interesting World Heritage Sites in Tuscany or to Lucca and Pisa .

By going to San Gimignano, Siena Chianti you get to experience the true meaning of medieval towns, relish in vast wine regions and rolling hills and immerse yourself in quaint little Italian towns. By heading over to Lucca and Pisa , you get to see the stunning symbols of Italy and revel in the major touristic vibe of the cities.

Alternatively, you can make a day trip from Florence to the colorful villages of the Cinque Terre. You can reach the villages by train from Florence, learn more about it on my one day guide to Cinque Terre , or by joining a guided tour. There are tςο options one that includes Pisa and the villages of the Cinque Terre and one that includes only the villages of Cinque Terre . The choice is yours.

You might be interested in: One day in Pisa. and 45 things to do in Tuscany

Day 5  Florence to Venice

After going back to Florence, it’s time to head to the magical city of Venice – one of the most delightful cities in Europe and definitely one of the most unique. I recommend that you take the train from Santa Maria Novela station in Florence to Venezia Santa Lucia and that you most definitely book early.

By booking early you get to enjoy lower prices and better rates. The whole journey will take about 2 hours and 5 minutes. For more information click here. 

Where to stay in Venice

Hotel Al Codega This hotel has been rated as one of the best over and over again and it’s a great choice if you want to immerse yourself in a little bit of art and culture. This hotel has one of the best locations in Venice and also offers normal amenities – heaters, flat-screen TV, and much more. – Check here for the latest prices and more detail. Hotel Rio Hotel Rio is right in the center of Venice, so of course, you’re in extreme proximity to attractions like the Rialto Bridge and Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station. This is a perfect place to stay in if you’re in Venice to shop and the hotel has a satellite TV, WiFi, toiletries, and a hairdryer. – Check here for the latest prices and more details. B&B Bloom Settimo Cielo Romantically beautiful and architecturally impressive, this hotel is dubbed as one of the top picks of Venice. The hotel enjoys some of the best hotel architecture in Venice and you also get all the amenities you might need at a hotel. As for the local location, the hotel is on Campiello Santo Stefano. – Check here for the latest prices and more details. Hotel Ai Reali – Small Luxury Hotels of the World Enjoying incredible Baroque and neoclassical architecture and adorned with marbles, this hotel is also another pick for Venice. Apart from the restaurant on-site, the hotel is a 3-minute walk away from St. Mark’s Basilica and all rooms come with every amenity you may need. – Check here for the latest prices and more details.

After you settle in the hotel, it’s time to get completely enamored by the city of Venice.

Piazza San Marco – Start your visit to Venice by visiting its bustling heart and one of Italy’s most well-known and iconic plazas. You’ll be in a plaza that dates hundreds of years ago with a typical Venetian atmosphere, brick towers, gorgeous buildings, and beautiful bridges.

Campanile di San Marco – This tall brick bell tower soars over the Piazza majestically and the view from up there is even better as you get to enjoy gorgeous panoramas of the piazza.

St Mark’s Cathedral – The basilica dates back hundreds of years ago and still stands in its magnificent glory. The façade is incredibly detailed with intricate designs and sumptuous designs and the interior is an ode to art with golden altars, mosaics, a treasury, and a lot more.

Tip: To avoid the long queues book a skip-the-line guided tour to St Mark’s Cathedral.

Doge’s Palace – After you’re done exploring the basilica, head over to the extravagant palace of Doge. A byzantine-style façade is complimented with thousands of paintings inside, lacy patterns, art sculptures, and Venetian architecture. You’ll walk over the Bridge of Sighs and get lost in the Hall of the Great Council!

Tip: Another place with long queues in Venice. To avoid them you can either buy a priority admission ticket or book a skip-the-line guided tour to the palace . If you are planning to visit both St. Mark’s Cathedral and the Doge’s Palace t his skip-the-line 2-hour walking tour will save you both time and money.

Rialto Bridge – The Rialto Bridge is definitely the iconic symbol of the city of Venice, with gorgeous canals that juxtapose the architecture of the bridge. Colorful stalls pepper the bridge, and attractions surround the entire area. It’s a place where you get to revel in the romanticism surrounding you.

Day 6 Explore Venice

Accademia Galleries – The thing about Italy is that it’s teeming with all types of art and Venice is no exception. Head over to the Accademia Galleries for incredible collections of Venetian art that date back to the fourteenth century and span all types of different artists and influences.

Take a tour around the Venetian Lagoon – The Venetian lagoon boasts incredible scenery and history and it’s worth spending some time exploring the lagoon. Take a cruise between the Venetian islands where you’ll get to really take in the scenery, the simplicity of life, the traditions and the history, and a lot more.

Find here more information and book a cruise to Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands.

After you’re done with the tour, it’s worth exploring and getting lost in the quintessential winding alleys of Venice. Cobblestone streets, bridges, canals, and unique architecture will keep you wanting to go back for more.

Gondola Ride – Of course, your Venice experience would not be complete without the renowned canals that you can explore. Take a gondola ride to experience the true authenticity of Venetian life, and float around Venice’s facades reflected unto the waters.

Find here more information and book a 30-minute gondola ride.

You might be interested in: 2 days in Venice.

Day 7 Venice to Rome

Take the fast train from Venice to Rome, which will take you about 3 hours and 45 minutes. Make sure you book in advance for better rates!

After you arrive again in Rome, it’s time for you to enjoy the rest of what this vast and diverse city has to offer. First, settle in your hotel and then continue your journey through Rome.

Colosseum – This is most definitely one of the most attractions in all of Italy – the epitome of grand and the actual reflection of just how important and influential Rome was back then. Walking around the Colosseum to me was an incredible experience due to the fact that I was surrounded by over 2000 years of history.

Opening hours: Every day: 8:30 am  until one hour before sunset, 25 December and 1 January: closed

Combined ticket to visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine : Adults: 12€ European Union members (18 – 24): 7.50€ Children (ages less than 17) and seniors (over 65) members of the EU: free entrance

The Roman Forum – To really understand how powerful and influential Rome was back then, I visited the Roman Forum. It was the most important sight in all of Europe back then and you can see the faint reflection of temples, palaces, stalls, and the signs that this was a bustling heart of the city.

Tip: The Roman Forum and the Colosseum were incredible places to visit, and the most important monuments in Rome, so needless to say, the lines were massive. Luckily, we bought skip-the-line tickets that helped make our tour so much easier and more convenient.

Find here more information about the skip the line tour to the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

The Pantheon – Needless to say, Rome is simply teeming with historical attractions and the best preserved out of all of them is the Pantheon. The walls date back to 125 A.D, the oculus inside is incredibly impressive that even Da Vinci himself studied it and the dome with its designs stands out incredibly.

Opening hours: Mon-Sat : 9 am – 6.30 pm and Sun: 9 am –1 pm.

Piazza Navona – After checking out the historical monuments, I headed over to the piazza for a cup of coffee and some food. It’s an outstanding experience to be sitting by a sidewalk café as the sensory overload of Rome takes over you as you sit there.

Day 8 Explore Rome

Vatican City was and still continues to be one of the most impressive experiences I’ve had in my travels. You get to revel in an unparalleled sense of spirituality and transcended as you get lost in the churches, the galleries, the gardens, and the paintings and it is a must on your Italy itinerary.

Vatican Museum – The Vatican Museum is unparalleled when it comes to the collection it offers and simply how huge it is. There are over 1400 rooms there that you can explore with artwork dating back almost 4000 years old.

Sistine Chapel – This chapel offers great representations of most biblical scenes with Michelangelo’s frescoes dominating the entire interior.

Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 am  – 6 pm  (Ticket office closes at 4 pm ). Sunday: Closed except the last Sunday of each month: 9 am – 2 pm . (Ticket office closes at midday, 12:30 pm ). 1, 6 January, 11 February, 22 February, 19, 28 February, 29 June, 15 August, 1 November, 8, 26 December: closed

Tickets: Adults: 16€. Children (ages 6 – 18): 8€. Students (ages 19 – 26): 8€. The entrance is free on the last Sunday of every month.

St Peter’s Basilica – One of the biggest churches in the world is an edifice that is blessed with a lavish decorations offering an unforgettable experience.

Opening hours: October – March: 7am – 6:30pm, April – September: 7am – 7pm

Free entrance

Tip: Visiting the Vatican is an essential Rome experience, and it will be quite overwhelming! Before anything, you should know that the queues are huge. No matter how much you think you can wait, you can’t. The queues go on for seemingly forever, so I recommend a skip a line tour . Another way to enjoy the Vatican if you don’t have much time is by this Pristine Sistine, early entrance small group Vatican tour  by the Walks of Italy. The reason I like this tour is that you get inside the Vatican one hour before it opens, the group is up to 14 people and you get to see the Vatican in under 4 hours. Both times I’ve been there were with the skip-the-line guided tour, and it added to the overall comfort and convenience of my entire visit there. If you’re not really into tours, you can wander on your own and skip the lines .

Climbing the Dome – After exploring the Basilica, you can reach the dome (either through an elevator or a 320-step climb), and get rewarded with the most breath-taking, gasp-deserving views in Rome. You’ll get panoramas of Rome, the buildings, the winding alleys, the plazas…This is when you realize the true grandeur you’re surrounded with.

Opening hours: The dome opens at 8 am  and closes one hour before the Basilica.

Tickets: Lift to the terrace plus 320 steps: 8€. Climbing 551 steps by foot: 6€.

Castel San Angelo – You can also quickly check out the Castel San Angelo and take a look over the upper terrace with its beautiful views. Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 9 am – 7 pm

Tickets: Adults: 10,50€, EU citizens (aged 18 – 24): 7€

Click here to book your reserved ticket to Castel San Angelo.

Villa Borghese – The Villa Borghese includes one of the world’s largest private art collections and you’ll find all types of artwork. From ones made by giants like Bernini and Raphael to an entire Renaissance gallery.

There are long queues in the Villa Borghese and tickets are often sold out. . I totally recommend this 2-hour tour with skip-the-line tickets. 

Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 8:30 am  – 7:30 pm , Monday: closed

Tickets: Adults: 11 €, EU citizens (ages 18 – 25): 6,50 €, Youth (less than 18) and Seniors ((over 65): 2 €

After exploring the gallery, I spent some time amongst beautiful flowerbeds, fountains, and temples in Rome’s largest park – Villa Borghese

Day 9 Pompeii

As if Rome itself was not enough, you can almost end your 10-day trip to Italy with a bang. Take a journey back in time to Mount Vesuvius where you can check out the lost city of Pompeii, breathtaking summit views, or the different hidden secrets of the place. Above all of this, you’re met with the Bay of Naples, the ruins, frescoes, winding streets, and a lot more.

Find here more information about the day trip to Pompeii

If you feel like your days have already been overwhelming enough, you can just get to explore the rest of Rome!

Day 10 Flight home

Sadly, your 10-day trip to Italy has come to an end but the 10-day itinerary can be mixed and matched however you like.

Italy itinerary #2: Rome, Naples, Pompei, Amalfi Coast, Florence, and Rome

Best time to go: the end of May – the beginning of June. This is the best period to enjoy warm and sunny weather and spend some time on the beach on the Amalfi Coast. It is also less hot and less crowded than in Summer.

When planning your trip to Rome, it is best to choose a central accommodation, so that you can walk your way through the many points of interest in the city center.

On your first afternoon in Italy, you can enjoy a walking itinerary of about 1h30 to see some of the most iconic places of the Capital. Start from the Pantheon : you can reach it with the subway (Barberini stop on the A-line) and you’ll have the chance to admire this Greek-style temple dedicated to Roman gods.

After visiting its interior lit by the hole in the dome, you can have a 10minutes walk to reach the Trevi Fountain : you’ll probably have to be patient enough to be able to get close to the basin among a large crowd, but this beautiful Baroque fountain is worth the wait.

Walk for another 10 minutes and reach the Spanish Steps : after climbing the iconic stairs you’ll reach a belvedere for your pictures and you can also visit the nice church of Trinità dei Monti .

Another pleasant 15minutes walk will lead you to Piazza Navona . This large Baroque square was once the Stadium of Diocleziano, where the chariot races took place during the Imperial era. The most important feature of the square is the Four Rivers Fountain by Bernini.

Day 2 Naples

Catch a Frecciarossa high-speed train from Termini station to reach Naples in 1h10. This way you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the third largest Italian city (after Rome and Milan). A good idea is to buy Naples Pass, which is a prepaid card allowing you to enjoy many discounts on special attractions and/or cafés/restaurants/tours. There is also a version including public transport. More info here.

You can start your day by visiting the National Archeological Museum : it is the most important archeological museum in Italy and the richest in the world as regards Roman remains. There are three collections: Farnese (mainly about the Roman period), Pompeian and Egyptian.

After a quick lunch, you can enjoy the guided tour called Underground Naples: the visit takes 1h30 and you’ll discover the underground of the city with its many remains spanning from the Greek period to World War II.  At the end of your first day in Naples, have a walk in via San Gregorio Armeno , also called “the street of the nativity scenes”: here you can see many craftsman’s shops producing the characters of the famous Neapolitan crib all year around.

If you want to discover what local nightlife looks like, go to the Chiaia district, which is a nice neighborhood near the waterfront and full of wine bars, pubs, and cafés.

Day 3 Pompei

The fastest way to reach Pompei from Naples is by bus: Sita Sud Company offers frequent rides taking less than 45 minutes. It is always best to arrive at the entrance of the archeological park before the opening at 9 a.m. in order to avoid long lines and to enjoy a couple of hours of peace!

How to visit Pompei?

Option 1 : have a quick guided tour and go back to Naples in the afternoon. This one takes just 2 hours  

Option 2 : have a longer tour leading you to discover Ercolano too . 

Option 3 : have a longer tour leading you to the top of the Vesuvio volcano.  

Option 4 : make your own itinerary in advance.

Day 4 Naples

Start your day with a guided tour of the famous San Carlo Theater the visit takes 45 minutes and lets you discover the second most important Italian Theater after La Scala in Milan. Its ballet company is also very prestigious and renown.

After that, walk along the so-called Spaccanapoli, which is the streets going through the entire old town. You’ll go through many different districts telling you the story of the city and letting you immerse yourself in its many contradictions. A guided tour like this is a great choice to explore the Old Town.

Taste local Neapolitan pizza for lunch and choose a restaurant near the waterfront to enjoy some sea breeze. A walk along the Lungomare Caracciolo will lead you to Castel dell’ Ovo , located on the small island of Megaride. Don’t miss the view from its tallest tower!

Later in the afternoon, you can walk till Piazza del Plebiscito : with its 25.000 square meters, it is one of the largest Italian squares.

If you still have some time for your visits, don’t miss the Royal Palace : its main points of interest are its monumental staircase and its roof garden.

Day 5  Amalfi Coast

How to visit it?

Option 1 : to make the best out of your day, choose a guided tour like this one  taking you to the main resorts of the coast with a dedicated guide in English.

Option 2 : you can rent a car in Naples and drive around all day by stopping in your favorite places. What you cannot miss: Fornillo Beach in Positano , Queen Giovanna’s baths in Sorrento , the Cathedral of Amalfi and Villa Cimbrone in Ravello .

Option 3: spend a day on the beach in one of the beautiful seaside resorts along the coast. One of the best options is Positano with its famous beaches (Laurito, Arienzo, Fornillo and Marina Grande).

Check out the best places to stay on the Amalfi coast and the most beautiful towns on the Amalfi Coast.

Day 6 Naples and Florence

On your last morning in Naples, you can visit Trinità Maggiore (also called Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo): this original Baroque building was the former residence of the Sanseverino family, then it was donated to the Jesuits and it became a church.

You’ll see the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara just across the square: it dates back to the XIV century and it was made of two convents (one of the Clarisse nuns and one for the Franciscan friars).

In the afternoon, you can catch a Frecciarossa high-speed train that will take you to Florence in 3 hours.

Day 7  Florence

Start your visit from Piazza del Duomo . Here you can buy an all-inclusive ticket allowing you to visit Santa Maria del Fiore (the Cathedral), the Brunelleschi Dome, the Baptistery, the Giotto Tower and the Museum of the Cathedral.

Take some time to simply wander around in the Old Town to immerse yourself in its Renaissance atmosphere and taste some typical products like lampredotto, Fiorentina steak or schiacciata for lunch.

In the afternoon, visit Piazza della Signoria, which is the political center of the city life, and enter Palazzo Vecchio to learn more about the history of Florence throughout the centuries.

At the end of your first day in Florence, you can walk till Michelangelo Square and enjoy an amazing view. You can also keep this visit for later in the evening to see the lit city and enjoy a more romantic scenery.

Day 8  Florence

Spend a few hours visiting two of the most important museums in Italy: Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia . They are huge and crowded, so the best option is to take a guided tour of both of them, like this one.

Go to the Central Market for lunch: discover the main products of the Tuscany Region and have fun wandering through the stalls on the ground floor.

In the afternoon, you can walk till Ponte Vecchio and cross the Arno River to get to the Boboli Gardens and relax in a beautiful Renaissance park offering you the perfect views for your pictures.

Catch a Frecciarossa high-speed train early in the morning to reach Rome in about 1h20 and enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the Capital.

Start your visit from Piazza del Popolo , which is the neoclassical square leading you to the Pincio belvedere.

Spend a few hours wandering around the Villa Borghese park. Don’t miss the temple of Aesculapius, the Water Clock, and the Casina dell Orologio.

If you still have some time, visit also the Borghese Gallery with its precious collections of works of art by famous artists like Bernini or Canova. Otherwise, you can simply enjoy a picnic in the park.

To squeeze a visit to the Vatican State in a few hours, it is best to join a guided tour: this one takes 3 hours and it will let you see the most important attractions including Sistine Chapel. 

Day 10  Rome

On your last morning in Rome visit the Colosseum . If you want a more complete visit of the ancient ruins of the Imperial era, take this tour leading you to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatino hill.

Italy Itinerary #3: Rome, Milan, Como Lake, Verona, and Venice

Best time to go : lakes give the best of themselves in Spring, so March, April, and May are the best months for this tour. Just avoid Easter week and the closest weekend to April 25 th (national holiday).

After arriving at your hotel, you’ll probably have an entire afternoon to go sightseeing, so why not spend it on a tour of the Vatican State ? T ry this one for example, in just 2h30 you’ll have the chance to see its most important points of interest and to admire its most amazing works of art.

Head to the Colosseum early in the morning, so that you can find a shorter line and visit it in a quieter atmosphere.  To make the best out of your morning, have a guided tour including also the Roman Forum and the Palatino Hill, like this one . Remember to bring your food and water with you, since there are no bars nearby!

Spend your afternoon walking through the streets of Rome and enjoy an itinerary starting from Piazza Venezia . Here you can admire the Altar of the Fatherland (also called Vittoriano): it was inaugurated in 1911 on the occasion of the 50 th anniversary of the unification of Italy. It is an important patriotic place reminding of the Risorgimento, the Unity of the Country and the Italian soldiers who died during World War I and II.

After a 10minutes walk, you’ll reach Largo di Torre Argentina : this archeological park is where Giulio Cesare was murdered back in 44 A.C. Other than an important historic place, it is today a feline colony full of nice cats available for adoption.

The Pantheon is just a couple of blocks away, so take some time to visit this evocative place too!

From there, have a walk in Via del Corso and enjoy its beautiful buildings and shops before reaching Piazza del Popolo .

Don’t miss the Pincio’s belvedere and the quiet park of Villa Borghese , where you can relax, rent a bike or even a small boat to have a tour of the lake near the Temple of Aesculapius .

Spend a special night out with a dinner cruise on the Tevere River.  

Day 3  Rome and Milan

Spend your last few hours in Rome exploring the streets surrounding Piazza Navona and visit the nice church of San Luigi dei Francesi , that is the church of the local French community housing beautiful paintings by Caravaggio.

The Trevi Foutain is just 10minutes away, so you can also try to see it, if there are not too many tourists (the earlier the better!).

If you still have at least 30 minutes, walk until the Spanish Steps and visit the nice church of Trinità dei Monti .

After lunch, head to Termini Station and catch a Frecciarossa high-speed train that will take you to Milan in 3 hours.

Day 4  Milan

The most iconic place in Milan is Piazza del Duomo  so that you should absolutely visit it at first. Before entering the Cathedral (Duomo), which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, take some time to admire its gothic façade made of white marble rich in decorations and statues. Once inside, don’t miss the brass band on the floor with the zodiac signs: once the sun enters a specific sign, a ray of light will lighten exactly the correspondent tile! Another thing you should do inside the Cathedral is climbing to the top of its spire to enjoy a 360° view of Milan and the Alps. If you also want to visit the Museum and the archeological area, take this tour  

After that, enjoy some shopping in the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery : it is the symbol of local luxury and it is full of shops and malls in a rich and extremely decorated setting.

Spend your afternoon visiting the Sforza Castle : it dates back to the XV century and it was the residence of Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan.  It is worth a long and thorough visit and a guided tour is the best option.

To discover local nightlife, head to Navigli : it is a district on the banks of the former irrigation channels that reminds of the Rive Gauche in Paris. This is the place where young people gather every weekend and the perfect place to enjoy one of the most typical Italian (and especially Milanese) customs: the “aperitivo” (happy hour)!

Day 5 Milan

Start your second day in Milan with a visit to the most important Italian theater: La Scala . It is the place where the main opera shows take place and you can enjoy a guided tour like this one to learn more about the history of classical music in Italy.

From there, you can easily reach the Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore : it might seem a common and simple church, but once inside you’ll see some frescos by Luini that owed it the surname of “Milanese Sistine Chapel”.

Walk for another 10 minutes and reach the Cenacolo Vinciano : here you can admire the famous “Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci . The painting is still in its original location, that is the dining room of the Santa Maria delle Grazie Convent. The painting is really huge: it is 4m high and 8m wide and many tourists and art lovers from all around the world come here to see it every day.

Click here to book a guided tour to Leonardo’s Last Supper.

To spend a pleasant afternoon, have a bike tour like this one , you’ll see many interesting places and discover real-life habits while doing some exercise!

Day 6 Como Lake

Como Lake is less than 50 Km away from Milan, so it’s the typical one-day trip or weekend destination for locals. The most important town on the lake is Como, but there are many picturesque villages that are worth a visit too.

How to organize your one-day trip from Milan?

Option 1: have a guided tour like this one to also visit the charming villages of Bellagio and Varenna.

Option 2 : rent a car in Milan and stop at your favorite places.

What you cannot miss:

-Villa Melzi in Bellagio

-Villa Monastero in Varenna

-Villa del Balbianello in Tremezzo

Option 3 : catch a train to reach Como (1h from Milan) and explore the town.

What to see:

-Villa Olmo

-St. Abbondio Basilica

-San Fedele Basilica

Day 7  Venice

Catch a high-speed train (Frecciarossa, Eurocity or Italo) and head to Venice. You can reach it in about 2h30 from Milan. The best districts where to find accommodation are Cannaregio, San Polo, and Santa Croce.

When you get out of the train station, you’ll cross the Ponte degli Scalzi and you’ll find yourself in one of the most particular cities in the world. Its main canal is Canal Grande , which is crossed by 4 bridges (degli Scalzi, Rialto, Accademia, and Costituzione). One of the main points of interest you can find close to the station is the Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, which is the most important church in Venice after San Marco Basilica. Take some time to admire its gothic facade and the paintings by Tiziano you’ll find inside.

Have a pleasant 10minutes’ walk through the picturesque streets of Venice and reach Roma Square, where you can catch a Vaporetto (steamboat) and have a tour ( schedule here ) of the Canal Grande. Vaporetti are common public transports for locals, just like buses or tramways!

If you prefer to enjoy a romantic experience, try a gondola tour like this one.

Spend your first afternoon in Venice in Dorsoduro district . What to see:

– Campo Santa Margherita , one of the favorite areas of young people

– Fondamenta delle Zattere , for a great view of the Giudecca Canal

– Church of Santa Maria della Salute

– Peggy Guggenheim collection

To spend an interesting evening, go to see a show in one of the most famous theaters in Venice, like La Fenice or Carlo Goldoni.

Day 8 Venice

Start your day in San Marco Square , that is the heart of the city. Visit Palazzo Ducale, (the residence of the “doge”, that was the leader of Venice), San Marco Basilica (with its Byzantine mosaics), San Marco Tower (with its beautiful view) and the iconic Clock Tower .

Tip: To avoid the long queues book a skip the line guided tour to St Mark’s Cathedral.

Cross the famous Ponte dei Sospiri , then walk along the streets to cross Rialto Bridge .

If you want to combine sightseeing and food, this 4hours tour is for you.

Spend your afternoon in Murano : it is a small island in Venice’s lagoon and it is famous for its glass processing laboratories . They are still open to the public and they offer interesting demonstrations and tours. Visit also the Cathedral and the Glass Museum. If you want to learn more about glass processing, you can also enjoy this demonstrative workshop.

Day 9 Verona

Verona is close to Venice and it will take you less than 1h30 to get there by train.

How to organize your day-trip?

Option 1 : have a guided tour with a local to discover the secrets of the city and make new friends

Option 2 : have a quick tour like this one in the morning , then reach Garda Lake (the nearest towns you can reach by train are Lazise, Peschiera and Garda).

Option 3 : plan your own itinerary and visit the city at your own pace. What you cannot miss:

-House of Juliet

-Piazza delle Erbe

-Bra Square

-St. Peter’s Castle Square

-San Zeno Basilica

-Scaligero Bridge

– Castelvecchio Museum

Day 10 Venice

Spend your last few hours in Venice wandering around Cannaregio District. What to see:

– The Jewish Ghetto with its interesting Jewish Museum

-Ca’ D’Oro Palace, housing the prestigious Giorgio Franchetti collection with its masterpiece by Andrea Mantegna.

-Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli with its Renaissance façade and decorations.

Spending 10 days in Italy barely scratches the surface of what Italy has to offer but it’s a great way to get an introduction to what the country is like. You get to see buzzing Rome, enchanting Venice and beautiful Florence, all while exploring cities nearby.

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

10 day Italy itinerary for families: Italy trip ideas you and your kids will love

10 day Italy itinerary for families with kids: nine ideas for spending 10 fantastic days in Italy with kids, perfect for first-time visitors .

Out of all the Italy travel guides for families on this website, this collection of itineraries has been the hardest to write.

Not for lack of will or ideas but rather, for the very opposite reason!

A 10 day Italy itinerary for families is one of the most requested pieces of travel advice I see on my ‘Italy with kids’ travel group on Facebook.

It is also, however, one of the hardest pieces of travel advice to give as there are literally uncountable ways to plan 10 fantastic days in Italy with kids .

How old are your kids? Are you happy to rent a car? What season are you going? What town are you flying into? What are your interests? Do you have must-see? Have you been before? How fast do you want to travel?

Each of these questions opens a new scenario; however, over time, I have noticed some requests and desires to come up more often than others.

I can see places like Rome, Venice, Tuscany’s rolling hills, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Cinque Terre come up over and over again.

I also see families with a remarkable willingness to travel pretty extensively during their stay, to see as much as possible in the time they have.

So today, I tried to take stock of all of this and I am sharing some suggested 10 day Italy itinerary for families that I believe make sense and can help you plan your own.

I hope they can be useful you start planning and any questions you may have, ask them in the group!

I know I speak for everyone there: we’d love to help!

If you want even more help or you have any questions, please in my FREE Facebook group about traveling to Italy with kids: I will be happy to have you there and the tips from me and the other members are FREE!

How I made these 10-day Italy itineraries for families

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When drafting these itineraries, I took into account the following:

• The desire of most first time visitors to cover a lot of ground to make the most of their time
• The most common areas first time visitors wish to see during their trip
• Places most enjoyable with kids / for kids
• Actual connections between places: If I recommend a day trip from A to B by train, this is becasue a train connection is avaiable (at the time of writing at least), they are not just ‘for inspiration’
• Practical travel time between places, so you are not on the go all the time
• The need for families with small kids to minimize the number of accommodation changes
• Down time for kids / possible jet lag on arrival: in most cases (not all), I have not foreseen driving on arrival.

If you find these itineraries too tiring, do not despair.

There are plenty of slower ways to visit Italy.

Each of the area mentioned in this article, for instance, can easily be your home for ten full days and offer endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Italy does slow travel remarkably well!

If you want to learn more about a specific area, you can find additional info as follows:

• Check our list of best places to visit in Italy with kids
• Read our area guides (use the search bar on the website menu or use the links below)
• Ask in our group for advice.

You can use these family itineraries in Italy in several ways.

If you find one you like, you can follow our exact schedule – at the end of this article, you find specific guides to each city/area to help you plan the details

You can use any of these as a basis to craft your own .

In this case, I highly recommend you resist the temptation to cram in a lot more – these itineraries are pretty full-on, so if we haven’t added an extra stop, chances are it would be too much.

That said, each family is different so if you have the energy to do more, that is sure possible!

For each main city, I have written down some of the most important landmarks you can see each day: this is just to give a sense of what you can do with the time available.

You will find complete city guides for families at the end of this post or you can use these quick links:

Venice with kids | Florence with kids | Rome with kids | Milan with kids

10 days in Italy with kids -itinerary ideas

This is a good 10-day itinerary for families in Italy to see the most famous cities and the famous rolling hills of Tuscany.

Good to know! You can see this detailed itinerary (with exact info on what to do each day) here >> Venice, Florence and Rome itinerary for families.

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice, settle, short stroll (option of scavenger hunt tour for kids) and dinner

Day 2 – Venice San Marco area, glasswork workshop for kids, family rowing class

Day 3 – Train to Florence (2.5h), settle and stroll

Day 4 – Florence Duomo, Oltrarno, Piazzale Michelangelo: option of kids-centered tour

Day 5 – Day trip to San Gimignano (bus) or Lucca or Pisa (train) or a day in the country with a cooking class

Day 6 – Morning in Florence (Uffizi), afternoon train to Rome (1.5h), settle and dinner

Day 7 – Rome Colosseum – option of kids’ tours with a scavenger hunt

Day 8 – City center stroll Castel Sant’Angelo, pasta-making class with a local

Day 9 – Vatican City and Borghese Gardens

DAy 10 – Fee morning/shopping/ and departure day

This itinerary mixes train and car travel and it is perfect if you want to see Italy’s main art cities and some downtime in the Tuscany countryside.

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice, settle, short stroll and dinner

Day 2 – Venice San Marco and city center

Day 3 – Venice Santa Maria Formosa (option of kids treasure hunt) and Burano/Murano (option of kids glasswork workshop)

Day 4 – Car to Tuscany, option of lunch in Ferrara, settle in agriturismo (3-4h by car depending on exact agriturismo chosen)

Day 5 – Half day agriturismo, option of half day San Gimignano. Option of kids activity in agriturismo

Day 6 – Half day agriturismo, option of half day san Siena. Option of kids activity in agriturismo

Day 7 – Drop car in Florence, option Florence city center walk, train to Rome (1.5h) OR drive to Rome

Day 8 – Rome Colosseum, Forum and Trevi Fountain – option of family tours

Day 9 – Vatican and Piazza Navona – option of family tours

Day 10 – Pantheon stroll and fly back

This itinerary covers areas in parts of Italy pretty far from each other. It caters mostly to people who have both Venice and Amalfi Coast on their wish list.

Day 3 – Day 3 – Venice Santa Maria Formosa (option of kids treasure hunt) and Burano/Murano (option of kids glasswork workshop)

Day 4 – Train to Florence (2.5h), settle and stroll

Day 5 – Florence Duomo, Oltrarno, Piazzale Michelangelo – option of kids treasure hunt tour

Day 6 – Day trip to San Gimignano (bus) or Lucca. Option to cycle on Lucca’s city walls.

Day 7 – Train Florence to Salerno (3.5h) and ferry to Amalfi coast town (30+ mins, depending on exact town chosen)

Day 8 – Slow day on Amalfi coast – option of ferry tour / family walk between towns

Day 9 – Slow day on Amalfi Coast

Day 10 – Transport back to Naples (duration depends on specific town chosen) and fly back

This itinerary also works by swapping Florence and San Gimignano/Lucca with Rome.

This is a lovely itinerary for families who want to mix Rome with country and coastal areas.

Day 1 – Arrival in Rome, settle and dinner

Day 2 – Rome Colosseum, Forum and Trevi Fountain – option of kids’ tours

Day 3 – Vatican and Piazza Navona – option of kids’ tours

Day 4 – Car to Siena area (2h+, depending on exact location) and dinner in agriturismo

Day 5 – Half day agriturismo, half day San Gimignano. Option of kids’ activity in agriturismo

Day 6 – Half day agriturismo, half day Siena. Option of kids’ activity in agriturismo

Day 7 – Car + train to Cinque Terre (3.5h approx).  Settle and stroll. Night in Cinque Terre

Day 8 – Full day in Cinque Terre – village sightseeing, playground, beach in Monterosso

Day 9 – Cinque Terre to or Milan by train (3h), explore

Day 10 – Stroll in Milan and fly back  

Top tip! If you need to fly in and out of the same airport, you can also take the train back to Rome and spend the last day in the city. As an option, you could also plan a stop in Pisa on the way between La Spezia and Rome (makes sure you purchase train tickets accordingly if interested in this solution)

A great family itinerary to slow down in the countryside and in Italy’s super relaxing hot springs.

Day 2 – Golf cart tour or city center stroll

Day 3 – Rome Colosseum, Forum and Trevi Fountain – option of kid-friendly tours

Day 4 – Vatican and Piazza Navona – option of kid friendly tours

Day 5 – Car to Montepulciano (2h), day and dinner in agriturismo

Day 6 – Half day agriturismo, half day Pienza Option of activity in agriturismo

Day 7 – Day trip to Siena

Day 8 – Day trip to San Quirico d’orcia and Bagno Vignoni. Option of thermal baths.

Day 9 – Drive to Rome (2h) via Pitigliano and Saturnia. Option of free hot springs.

Day 10 – Night in Rome and fly back

This 10 day itinerary in Italy is perfect if the Amalfi Coast and its wonderful nature and towns are on your wishlist.

Day 2 – City center stroll, option of golf cart tour

Day 3 – Rome Colosseum, Forum and Trevi Fountain – option of kids’ tours

Day 4 – Vatican and Piazza Navona – option of kids’ tours

Day 5 – Train to Sorrento (2.5h) and settle

Day 6 – Slow day in Sorrento

Day 7 – Day trip to Pompeii

Day 8 – Day trip to Capri

Day 9 – Day trip to Amalfi coast town of choice

Day 10 – Transport to Naples airport (1h) and fly home

Top Tip: if you have already seen Rome, you can easily swap it with Naples. This will reduce travel time, allow you to see a stunning city (Naples is so underrated!) and visit additional islands such as Procida .

This itinerary is ideal for families with kids who love to be active outdoors and enjoy a mic of nature, village exploring and theme parks.

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice

Day 2 – One day In Venice San Marco/City center

Day 3 – One more day in Venice: option of a treasure hunt for kids then visit to Burano/Murano (option of kids’ glasswork workshop)

Day 4 – Train to Verona (1.5h), explore Verona stay the night

Day 5 – Train/bus to Lake Garda (30mins or more, depending on exact location)

Day 6 – Lake Garda (Sirmione, Desenzano)

Day 7 – Lake Garda (Adventure park, Gardaland)

Day 8 – Lake garda lake cruise

Day 9 – Train to Venice (1.5h or more depending on starting point)

Day 10 – Explore Venice Option of Accademia, mask painting workshop, maze visit)  and fly back

This itinerary is specific for mountain lovers and lovers of the outdoors.

Day 2 – One day In Venice San Marco

Day 3 – One day in Venice and Burano

Day 4 – Car to San Candido (3h)

Day 5 – Local exploration

Day 6 – Lake Braies

Day 7 – Three peaks of Lavaredo

Day 8 – Lake Dobbiaco

Day 9 – Car back to Venice (3h)

Day 10 – Explore Venice  and fly back

This itinerary is perfect for families who want don’t mind driving and want to mix visits to small villages, Unesco sites and time on the coast.

Day 1 – Arrival in Naples, car to Trani (2.5h)

Day 2 – Trani vist and playground, visit to UNESCO Castel del Monte

Day 3 – Car to Alberobello (1.5h), explore Alberobello and Locorotondo , option to sleep in Alberobello’s trullo

Day 4 – Day trip to Martina Franca , the ‘white city’ 

Day 5 – Drive to Matera (1h), settle and stroll the top part of the city.

Day 6 – Matera: walk around Sasso Caveoso, visit to Casa Grotta, visit Santa Maria de Idris rupestrian church

Day 7 – Matera: visit to the city National museum, walks around Sasso Barisano, stop at Miniature Sassi

Day 8 – Drive to Paestum (2.5h), visit to Paestum archaeological site , then Rome (3.5h) or Naples (1.5h)

Day 9 – One day in Rome (Ex. Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain) or Naples (Ex. Lungomare and Castel dell’Ovo and Naples archaeological museum/ Subterranean Naples and San Gregorio Armeno).

Day 10 – Explore city and fly back

Family Guide to Venice with kids

Family guide to Florence with kids

Family guide to Rome with kids

Family guide to Tuscany with kids

Family guide to Cinque Terre with kids

Family guide to Amalfi Coast with kids

Family guide to the Dolomites with kids

Family guide to Lake Garda with kids

Family guide to Puglia with kids

I hope you enjoyed these ideas for spending ten days in Italy with kids and they helped you kickstart your vacation planning. Safe travels!

Planning a trip to Italy? Don’t forget to also check out our 100+ Italy travel tips and our guide to planning a first trip to Italy !

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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Super quick boat tour to see the Amalfi coastline? - Sorrento Forum

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Super quick boat tour to see the Amalfi coastline?

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I wondered if while in Sorrento (or Capri), is there any super quick boat tours that we could take just to see the Amalfi or Positano coastline from the boat? Everywhere I see, the tours seem to be from 3-8 hours long which isn't what we want.

Would our best bet to wait and see if they offer any local tours at the destination or is it something we could book in advance?

Many thanks in advance!

2 replies to this topic

Why not just use the local ferries rather than look for a tour?

My thoughts, too..

Just get a ferry to Amalfi and back. If you need something quicker, that will mean a private speedboat/taxi type vessel, which would surely cost a fortune…

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The 3 Essential Tips For Packing For A Trip To Italy

W hen planning a trip to Italy, it’s tempting to pack your entire closet. After all, Italy is famous for its fashion. But overpacking can actually make your trip less enjoyable. Italy is a country that requires a lot of walking. It’s also a hassle to drag heavy luggage across cobblestone streets and up narrow staircases, which are common in Italian cities.

The key to enjoying Italy is to pack smart. This means bringing clothes that are not only stylish but also comfortable and suitable for the weather. Packing the right items will help you fit in with the Italian sense of style without sacrificing comfort. In this article, we will go over what to pack when you go to Italy, whether it’s for a day at the beach or a night at the oper a .

1 – Understand the climate

Before you start packing your suitcase, it’s important to know about Italy’s climate. Italy experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, which can affect what you should bring. In the spring, from March to May, the weather begins to warm up, but there can still be a chill in the air, especially in the evenings and in northern regions.

Summer, from June to August, brings hot and sunny days, especially in the southern parts of Italy. This is the time for lightweight and breathable fabrics. Women’s sleeveless tops , shorts, and skirts are perfect for staying cool. Remember to also pack a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Autumn, from September to November, is mild but can be unpredictable with occasional showers. It’s a good idea to have a mix of short-sleeved shirts and long-sleeved layers, so you can adjust to the changing temperatures. A light, waterproof jacket can also be very handy during this season.

2 – Dress like an Italian

Italians are known for how they dress and the importance they place on looking their best, a concept known as la bella figura. This means dressing appropriately for the occasion and ensuring your outfits are well-thought-out and put together.

When you’re out sightseeing during the day, you should be going for a smart-casual look. This doesn’t mean you need to dress up, but consider choosing outfits that are a step up from the typical tourist wear. This could mean a nice blouse paired with comfortable pants or a stylish skirt.

3 – What not to pack

First, don’t pack too many toiletries. Italy has plenty of stores where you can buy shampoo, soap, and other personal care items. This saves you space in your luggage and the hassle of carrying liquids through airport security.

Next, you might want to skip bringing an umbrella. If you get caught in the rain, you can easily find an umbrella in a local shop. Often, they’re sold right on the street when it starts to rain, so you won’t have to look far.

Avoid packing too many heavy books or travel guides. These can add a lot of weight to your luggage. Instead, consider using apps on your phone or a lightweight e-reader.