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

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

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

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

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

Here's a Short Cut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read My Guide to Train Travel in Italy Here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See this list of the best places to see in Italy

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

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

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

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

Download my FREE Italy Bucket List by clicking here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things you shouldn’t miss in Rome:

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

Rome, Florence, & Venice

Day 1-3: rome.

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

Here are some ideas for your 3 days in Rome:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to go: Summer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sardinia & Sicily

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florence, Siena, Chianti, San Gimignano, &

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Crew

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Whitney. Italy has everything! Love it!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Days in Italy Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes for a First Trip

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

If you’re visiting this Southern European nation for the first time, planning out the perfect 10-day Italy itinerary can seem like a completely overwhelming prospect. How on Earth do you cram in all there is to see in just a short amount of time?

Italy is an incredibly dynamic destination that has a lot to offer visitors and if it’s your first time to this beautiful country, you’re going to want to ensure you see all of the highlights. However, it’s essential that you don’t bite off more than you can chew and pack far too much into your itinerary, as well.

So if it’s your first trip to Italy and you don’t know where to start, the routes below are a great jumping-off point to planning out the route of your dreams.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Italy?

When planning your first trip to the country, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Italy at all. That is a bit of a tricky thing to answer because, being such a large and diverse country with so much to offer, travellers could have a year or more here and still not check everything off of their boxes.

However, if you are visiting Italy for the first time and want to see the highlights, plan on planning out at least a 10-day itinerary. If you spend 10 days in Italy, you’re not going to be able to visit absolutely everywhere, but it will give you time to visit a number of different places, get to know a few iconic cities and go on a few day trips.

Obviously, if you have longer to spend, you will have more time to dig deeper and explore more. However, for a first Italy itinerary, planning 10 days is really the sweet spot to be able to cover a lot of ground without feeling too overwhelmed.

Getting To & Around Italy

As one of the largest countries in Europe, it’s not difficult to get to Italy. There are airports in most major cities that connect the country to the rest of the continent and the bigger cities have large airports that serve countless international destinations.

The two largest airports in Italy are in Rome and Milan respectively, which is where the routes outlined below all originate. Arriving into Rome or Milan is straightforward from all across the globe and even from elsewhere in Italy.

Once in the country, you may be wondering how to get around. The 10-day itineraries outlined below can all be done via public transport and the train network in Italy is quite easy to navigate. Italy is blessed with an excellent train network that connects most of the country relatively effortlessly.

All the destinations in all of the routes are accessible using the train, bus or ferry. Keep in mind that once you have your route and time in Italy ironed out, it can be worth it to book transport in advance to get the best prices. You can book trains and buses here.

Though it isn’t necessary for any of the itineraries listed below, it can give you more flexibility to rent a car for your trip to Italy and treat these routes as a road trip. While you won’t need a car when exploring the cities, it can allow you to stop in places along the way in between destinations and give you more freedom when it comes to exploring.

If you decide you want to hire a car and plan an Italy road trip, then we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to find great deals across many different car hire companies.

10 Days in Italy Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

The routes outlined below are ideal for a first-time trip to Italy and are great if you want to get a good feel for the country and see some of the iconic highlights. Obviously, Italy has so much more to offer than Venice, Florence and Rome and each region is unique in its own right.

If you’re on the hunt for something a bit more specific when visiting Italy, we have lots of regional itineraries that will certainly check the boxes. The regions of Italy are destinations in their own right and can be very fulfilling to explore.

Our Northern Italy itinerary has two different routes to guide you through the north of the country and include stops like Cinque Terre and Genoa that aren’t covered in any of the below routes. And if you want to visit the area around Florence and spend more time in Central Italy, check out our Tuscany itinerary .

If you want to spend more time on the seaside south of Venice, our Amalfi Coast itinerary should be helpful to you and if you really want to get off the beaten path, then make sure to check out our Puglia itinerary .

Finally, we have a great Sicily itinerary that outlines how to spend 10 days on the Mediterranean’s largest island.

Vernazza - one of the five towns of Cinque Terre

Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

This Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary is arguably the most classic and one of the best routes for those who want to see Italy and the top highlights for the first time. With ten days to explore all three cities, you will have enough time to really do them justice while also being able to go on a day trip or two.

Leaving for your trip soon? Check out our guide to the best SIM card for Italy travel!

Day 1 – Rome

Begin your 10 days in Italy in the Eternal City of Rome. Though this iconic metropolis hardly needs an introduction, this is a complex city that has many layers and is incredibly multifaceted.

This itinerary will have you spending a full 4 days in Rome . On the final day, you could either opt to explore more of the city or go on day trip to somewhere nearby.

Spend your first day exploring some of the highlights of the Italian capital in the historical centre. Take in sites like the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon.

Then, spend an afternoon exploring the dynamic Trastevere neighbourhood and taking in the sites here or enjoying a food tour. End your day by watching the Giardini Degli Aranci on Aventine Hill – one of the 7 hills that Rome was built upon.

Where to Stay in Rome

Domus Palatina – This mid-range hotel is a great place to base yourself in the Eternal City. Perfectly located to explore all Rome has to offer, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and breakfast is included each morning.

Barberini Dream – Those looking for an upmarket stay in Rome will love this swish hotel located near the Trevi fountain. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer and countless amenities to ensure you have a fantastic time in the Italian capital.

Trianon Borgo Pio Aparthotel – If you’d like to experience Rome like a local and have your own flat, then this aparthotel is a good choice. Well-located close to the Vatican, there are a range of apartments to choose from and breakfast is available daily.

The RomeHello Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this highly-rated hostel in the Italian capital. They have both dorms and private rooms available, an excellent location and a good atmosphere for those looking to meet others on their trip.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Rome!

Day 2 – Rome

Your second day in Rome is still dedicated to taking in some of the most iconic spots in the city – and, likely, the most notable landmark in the city.

Start your day at the Colosseum – a visit here obviously cannot be missed when travelling to Italy for the first time.

Spend a couple of hours exploring the Colosseum before heading over to the Roman Forum and learning all about this historic place, as well. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or you can book a guided tour .

Then end your day by exploring the nearby Monti neighbourhood. There are lots of great restaurants and bars here for you to relax and enjoy a delicious aperitif .

Day 3 – Rome

Day 3 in Rome is dedicated to exploring the Vatican and the sites that lie within here. Of course, everyone knows St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. You can book tickets in advance online here or organise a guided tour if you prefer.

Keep in mind that visiting these places, along with the Vatican Museums, will take you most of the day considering just how much there is to take in.

So after spending the majority of the day in the Vatican and admiring all of the incredible history, antiquities and artwork, take the time to spend your evening wandering around the Testaccio neighbourhood. There are some great restaurants to eat at and some cool markets to explore, as well.

Day 4 – Rome

On your final day in Rome, you have a couple of options. If you want to get a bit off the typical tourist trail that gets you away from the typical sites of the historical centre, the Colosseum and the Vatican that you’ve already seen, then spend your day visiting the Villa Borghese and the Appian Way.

This will give you a lovely, relaxing day in Rome while also being able to still take in a bit of history and culture of this incredible city.

The other option would be to go on a day trip. There are many options, but one of the best choices would be to head to the hill town of Orvieto .

Located in the Umbria region, this is a great place to escape to if you want to get out of the city and see a bit more of Italy while on this Rome-Florence-Venice route.

Day 5 – Florence

After spending four days exploring the capital of Italy, it’s time to hop on the train and head north to the capital Tuscany – beautiful Florence . As one of the most iconic cities in Italy, Florence has a lot to offer visitors – especially if you’re interested in art, museums and the Renaissance.

Spend your first day in Florence taking in the highlights of the city. Start your day by exploring the Santa Maria del Fiore – Florence’s cathedral often referred to simply as the Duomo. This iconic red dome is a pervasive part of the city’s skyline. It is possible to organise a guided tour here.

Spend your afternoon exploring some other Florence highlights, including the San Lorenzo Market and, of course, the Uffizi Gallery – home to some of the world’s most well-known works of art. You can buy tickets here or book a guided tour here.

Where to Stay in Florence

Hotel Bellavista – This mid-range hotel makes the perfect base in Florence. Located within easy reach of the city’s top attractions, they have several great rooms to choose from and an excellent breakfast available each morning.

25hours Hotel – Travellers with a bit more money to spend will love this luxury hotel in the Tuscan capital. They have lovely rooms on offer, perfect for couples after a romantic getaway. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar and breakfast is available in the mornings.

Ostello Bello Firenze – This is a great option for those looking for the savings and social atmosphere of a hostel. They have many dorms and private rooms on offer and a great location for exploring all Florence has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Florence

Day 6 – Florence

Day 2 in Florence inevitably has you exploring some more museums and taking in some more incredible Rennaissance art. Start your day at the San Marco Museum where you can spend some time admiring the beautiful frescoes in this former monastery.

Next, make your way to the Accademia Gallery – home to Michaelangelo’s David . This is undoubtedly a popular spot to visit so make sure to book your tickets well in advance of your trip to ensure you get a time to see it. You can also book a guided tour.

Finish your day in Florence at Palazzo Medici and the lovely Basilica di Santa Croce.

Day 7 – Pisa, Siena or Lucca

Your third day should be dedicated to exploring a town in the surrounding Tuscany region on a day trip from Florence.

There are a seemingly infinite number of places to choose from, however, the most popular would likely be to the town of Pisa . Famous for its iconic leaning tower, Pisa is easy to reach from the Tuscan capital and makes for a perfect day trip. You can book an organised tour here.

Alternatively, you could opt to spend a day in the beautiful hill town of Lucca , which is located within easy reach (just hop on a train!) from Florence. Take the time to wander around the picturesque Old Town, walk along the city walls and relax in the city’s many gardens. This organised tour includes both Lucca and Pisa.

Or you could visit the stunning city of Siena . Reachable from Florence in just over an hour, this city is very much worth visiting if you want to explore a bit of Tuscany beyond the capital. There are lots of things to see and do here and it makes for an excellent day trip should you choose it. This full-day tour includes both Siena and Pisa.

Day 8 – Venice

The final destination on this classic 10-day itinerary is the iconic city of Venice . Known for its canals and piazzas, Venice is the perfect place to visit on your first trip to this beautiful country.

Your first day should be spent taking in all of the highlights of this city.

Start your day at the Rialto Bridge and gaze over the canals – watching the boats come by. Then, make your way over to the Piazza San Marco — St Mark’s Square — and take it this iconic place.

Here you can visit the San Marco Basilica, the Doge Palace and the Museo Correr – you can book tickets here.

Where to Stay in Venice

Ca’ Angeli – Located in the San Polo neighbourhood, this is an excellent choice for those looking for a great place to stay while visiting Venice. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer, an unbeatable location and a great breakfast available daily.

Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – Situated just off the iconic Rialto Bridge, this is an excellent choice for those who want some luxury while visiting Venice. They have several chic, romantic rooms available, an on-site bar and breakfast on offer in the mornings.

Combo Venezia – If you’re travelling on a tight budget or solo, you’ll love this small, locally-run hostel in the Cannaregio neighbourhood. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they also have good self-catering facilities and great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Venice hotels!

Day 9 – Venice

On your second day in Venice, take the time to explore deeper and maybe head to some other neighbourhoods of the city away from the crowds surrounding Piazza San Marco.

Spend your morning wandering around the lovely San Polo neighbourhood and getting a more local feel for the city. Next, head over to the cool Dorsoduro neighbourhood that has several cool museums to visit filled with beautiful and historic artwork.

End your day in the Cannaregio neighbourhood and enjoy some of the cool bars and restaurants that are well off the beaten tourist path. In a city that is as visited and struggling with overtourism as Venice, it can be important to spread your patronage outside of the historic centre.

Day 10 – Verona, Lake Garda, Prosecco or Burano

Spend the final day of this 10-day Italy itinerary on a day trip from Venice to explore a bit more of the gorgeous Veneto region. If you don’t want to venture too far, consider heading to the island of Burano just off the coast of Venice proper. There are many island tours available in Venice.

Alternatively, you could visit lovely Verona . Famed for being the setting of Romeo and Juliet , there is also an impressive Roman theatre to see here, as well. It is also possible to book a guided day tour.

Not far from Verona lies beautiful Lake Garda . Italy’s largest lake makes for a great day trip destination – or you could spend a couple of days exploring here! This organised tour goes to both Verona and Garda.

Finally, if you’re a wine fan, head to the Prosecco region to sample some of Veneto’s famous sparkling wine. This makes for a fantastic stop if you’re after a romantic day trip. You can book an organised trip here.

Rome-Naples-Amalfi Coast Itinerary

If you’re not fussed with Venice or Florence and want your trip to be filled with sunshine, warm weather and the seaside, then this Rome-Naples-Amalfi Coast itinerary is the perfect route for you.

Spending 10 days winding around Rome and Southern Italy is the perfect way to spend your first time to this incredible country.

Day 1 to 4 – Rome

All roads lead to Rome and this 10-day Italy trip is no different. Begin your trip with 4 days in the Italian capital as few first-timers to Italy want to skip this iconic destination. Follow the outline in the Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary above to figure out how to spend your four days in Rome.

Day 5 – Naples

From Rome, on your fifth day, it’s time to head south to the beautiful, chaotic city of Naples as no Rome to Amalfi Coast itinerary is complete without giving this city a visit. Home to the classic Neopolitan pizza, Naples has a lot to offer visitors even if it comes with a bit of a gritty reputation.

Spend your first day in Naples getting to know this interesting city (and maybe eating a bit of delicious pizza!). Wander around Piazza del Plebescito, visit the Castel Dell’Ovo and explore the beautiful Naples Harbour area.

There’s a lot to take in here and Naples is such an exciting city, so make sure you’ve packed the right shoes for a day of sightseeing!

Where to Stay in Naples

Hotel Il Convento – This hotel is a great option for mid-rang visitors in Naples. Situated in the historic Spanish Quarter, it has the perfect location for exploring all this dynamic city has to offer. There are a range of rooms available and breakfast is on offer each morning.

Relais Della Porta – If you’re after luxury while in Naples, then this hotel is an excellent choice. Located within easy reach of all the city’s top attractions, there are many rooms on offer and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Duomo Platinum Apartments – These apartments are an excellent choice if you’d like to have your own space while in Naples. There are different flats to choose from and they are well-located for exploring all of the city’s top highlights.

Tric Trac Hostel – Situated in the Piazza Santa Maria la Nova in Naples’ historic centre, this hostel is perfect for those travelling solo or on a budget. They have both dorm and private rooms available and fantastic common areas that make it easy to meet other travellers!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Naples hotels!

Day 6 – Naples

On your second day in Naples, you have a couple of options open to you. First off, you could spend the day seeing some of the sites you didn’t make it to the previous day and getting to know the city a little bit more.

You could enjoy a day wandering the famous Spaccanapoli street or exploring the Spanish Quarter.

Alternatively, you could opt to take a day trip from the city and explore some iconic, historic areas. The archaeological site of Pompeii is a very popular day trip from the city and within easy reach of Naples.

Another great option is to visit Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that looms over Naples and is still active today. You can book this full-day tour to visit both Pompeii & Vesuvius.

Day 7 – Sorrento

After spending two days in Naples, it’s time to head just a bit further south to the incredible and beautiful Amalfi Coast, where you’ll be spending the final days of your itinerary. The first stop in this area should be the lovely city of Sorrento.

Though not technically a part of the Amalfi Coast, it’s still very much worth exploring this lovely town as it is the gateway to the region. Home to iconic dishes like gnocchi alla sorrentina and limoncello, Sorrento is an incredibly beautiful and romantic place to explore while visiting this area.

When visiting this coastal region, it can be hard to know where to stay on the Amalfi Coast , but towns like Sorrento, Positano or Amalfi all make good bases depending on what you’re after.

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

Hotel Leone – Located in Sorrento, this mid-range hotel is a great option for those looking for a great base on the Amalfi Coast. They have many rooms available and there is even a delightful swimming pool and bar on site.

Albergo Miramare – Those looking for a luxury stay will love this plush hotel located in Positano . They have luxe rooms with incredible sea views, a perfect location and countless amenities to ensure you have the perfect stay.

Amalfitano Apartments – If you’d like to have your own space on the Amalfi coast, these apartments located in the town of Amalfi are a great option. There are different flats to choose from (including some with a sea view!) that can suit however large a party you’re travelling with.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Amalfi Coast hotels!

Day 8 – Positano

Spend your second day on the Amalfi Coast exploring the town of Positano. This is one of the most famous towns in the region and it is for good reason — it’s absolutely beautiful. Filled with charming winding streets, incredible views and lovely beaches, you’re sure to love spending time here.

You can spend your day in Positano simply lounging on the beach and taking in the lovely scenery of this charming town or you could opt to go on the Path of the Gods hike.

The latter option is a 7km hike and boasts incredible views over the area and is truly breathtaking if you’re feeling like getting active.

Day 9 – Capri

On your second-to-last day in Italy, it’s time to leave the mainland and take a day trip to the island of Capri .

Easy to reach from either Sorrento or Positano, Capri has a lot to offer visitors and makes for the perfect day trip when exploring the Amalfi Coast. This full-day boat tour is a good option if you want to go with a guide.

When visiting Capri , you cannot miss a trip to the beautiful Blue Grotto, accessible only by tour boat. Known for its enticing blue water, it’s absolutely gorgeous and one of the most popular places to visit on Capri.

Of course, you should also make sure that you take the time to explore the towns of Capri and Anacapri along with the lovely sites on Marina Piccola Bay. The latter spot is the mythical location where Odysseus was taken in by the songs of the sirens in Homer’s Odyssey .

Day 10 – Amalfi

End these 10 days in Italy in the beautiful town of Amalfi. The eponymous town of this iconic coast, Amalfi is a lovely place to round out your time in Italy.

Like the other lovely towns in the region, take the time to simply get lost in the small, winding streets and soak up the sunshine on the beach.

There are plenty of fun things to see and do in Amalfi and it is the perfect place to have a relaxing final day in Italy.

Milan-Florence-Bologna-Venice Itinerary

If you’re interested in exploring Northern Italy and Tuscany and would like to leave Rome for another time, then this route through Milan, Florence, Bologna and Venice is an excellent choice for your first trip to Italy.

Day 1 – Milan

Begin these 10 days in Italy in the country’s northern metropolis, Milan . Begin your time in this city by exploring perhaps its most iconic landmark – the Duomo di Milano or the Milan Cathedral.

This incredible building is multifaceted and it can take a couple of hours to experience it to its full extent. You can pre-book tickets here .

After spending time at the Duomo, wander over to the nearby Royal Palace and take in the history Afterwards, visit other sites like the Museo de Novecento, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the noteworthy Teatro la Scala and plenty more.

Milan may be a big city, but the top sites are within easy reach of each other and it makes it easy to cover a lot of ground in only a few days.

Where to Stay in Milan

Lancaster Hotel – This mid-range hotel makes the perfect base for exploring all Milan has to offer. Centrally located within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, they have a range of great rooms to choose from and breakfast included for guests each morning.

Castello Guest House Milano – Travellers looking for luxury will love this swanky guesthouse in the centre of the city. Well-located for exploring the highlights of Milan within a stone’s throw, they have countless lovely rooms on offer and plenty of other amenities to enjoy, as well.

Queen Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this centrally-located hostel. Well situated for exploring the best Milan has to offer, it is one of the highest-rated hostels in the city and they offer both dorms and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Milan hotels!

Day 2 – Milan

The second day of this Milan-Florence-Venice itinerary will still be spent in Milan itself as there is a lot more to see and do in this incredible city!

Start your day learning about the history (and maybe the crypts) of the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio. After that, head over the Chiesa di Santa Maria Delle Grazie. This church is home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s famed Last Supper painting and is something not to be missed when visiting Milan.

Spend the rest of your day taking in all of the sites you may have missed already and truly enjoying the atmosphere of this bustling Northern Italian city.

Day 3 – Lake Como

Day three sees you taking a Lake Como day trip from Milan . It only takes about an hour to get to the town of Varenna from central Milan and you will be transported to a completely different world. You can book a full-day tour here.

Though you could spend a few days in Lake Como , a day trip here is best-concentrated hopping between the towns of Varenna, Bellagio and Menaggio.

All three are very well-connected via frequent ferries (and it only takes about 10 minutes to hop between them) meaning that having your own vehicle isn’t altogether necessary, either.

You could also opt to visit one of the lake’s many villas – generally, these opulent homes are full of exquisite art collections and vast gardens that can make a great tourist attraction.

Day 4 to 6 – Florence

From Milan, it’s time to hop on a train south and visit Florence. The capital of Tuscany has a lot to offer and make sure to spend two full days exploring the highlights.

Then, on the final day, consider going on day trip to somewhere like Pisa, Lucca or Siena to get to know some smaller Tuscan cities a little bit better.

Day 7 – Bologna

From Florence, it’s time to head a bit further north again to the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region – Bologna . This city is known for being the gastronomic heart of Italy and the region itself is famous for all kinds of well-known culinary exports – such as ragu bolognese, prosciutto di parma, balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano Reggiano to name just a few.

Though it is a decently-sized city, you can see the highlights of Bologna in just one day . Spend your time wandering around Piazza Maggiore, see the Two Towers of Bologna (and even climb one for a view if you’re up for it) and stroll down Via Rizzoli.

If you want to try some of the city’s culinary specialities, Bologna is an excellent place to go on a food tour, as well, where you can learn all about the gastronomic culture of the city and the Emilia-Romagna region, in general.

Where to Stay in Bologna

B&B Chez Moi Lame 57 – This cute boutique B&B is perfect for those after a romantic escape to Bologna. They offer a handful of chic, quaint, clean and comfortable rooms on offer and there is a breakfast voucher given to guests daily to dine in a nearby local cafe.

Hotel Metropolitan – If it’s luxury you’re after in Emilia-Romagna’s capital, then this plush hotel is the perfect option. They have an excellent location in the heart of Bologna, myriad chic rooms on offer and countless luxe amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic.

Dopa Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this hip hostel located in the centre of Bologna. They have a range of both dorm beds and private rooms on offer, breakfast is included each morning and it’s a great place to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bologna hotels!

Day 8-10 – Venice

Finally, end this Milan-Florence-Venice itinerary in the iconic city of Venice. Like in the Rome-Florence-Venice route above, plan to spend at least two full days exploring the highlights and sites within the city of Venice itself.

Then, plan to spend your final day on a day trip in the Veneto region – somewhere like Burano, Verona, Lake Garda or to go Prosecco tasting in the region where it is made!

Planning your first trip to Italy can seem completely overwhelming when you factor in just how much there is to see and do in this beautiful country. Once you come to terms that there is no way you can cram everything into a 10-day trip, mapping out the ideal route isn’t a difficult task at all.

Are you planning a 10 day itinerary? Have any questions about these routes? Let us know in the comments!

How Many Days in Rome? Planning a 4 to 5 Day Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Genoa Itinerary

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Tuscany Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

I would like to visit Rome, Venice, the Amalfi Coast, and possibly Florence. Is this trip feasible and how many days should we allow?

This trip it feasible, however, I would make sure you allow for adequate time. Plan at least 3 days each (at minimum) in Venice, Florence and Rome and roughly a week in the Amalfi. Ensure you also account for travel times between destinations.

How difficult is it to navigate the train system in Italy? I would prefer to not rent a car.

The train system is, in my opinion, quite easy to navigate and it is generally doable to visit the country without a car and only relying on trains 🙂

Good day. Great information. Any suggestions on a 3 week itinerary that starts and ends in Rome. Want to include Tuscany Region, Sicily and Amalfi Coast.

Thank you in advance.

Hi Tony, I think trying to spend time in Rome along with Tuscany, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast in just 3 weeks is going to be incredibly rushed. However, we do have dedicated itineraries for all 3 regions. You can find out Tuscany itinerary here ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/tuscany-itinerary/ ), our Amalfi Coast itinerary here ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/amalfi-coast-itinerary/ ) and our Sicily itinerary here ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/sicily-itinerary/ ). Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

10 Days in Italy: A Complete Itinerary for First Timers

One thing I don’t think people really understand – I certainly didn’t – before they learn more about Italy is how diverse Italy is from a historical, cultural, and political perspective. Italy is one of the youngest countries in the European Union, having only been unified in 1861.

Of course, it’s hard to picture that given our conceptions about the Roman Empire and their control over the Italian Peninsula, but for the past thousand years or so, it has been a smorgasbord of various city-states and independent republics that were constantly vying for power.

And they all had different political structures, cultural quirks, and, perhaps most importantly, food and drink specialties.

Over the course of your time in Italy, we hope that you’ll get a taste for what makes each region that you spend time in special, and we’re here to help you figure out how to spend 10 days exploring that regional diversity, seeing the main sights along with some less-visited places (Bologna!) that we love.

Anyway, our point is that Italy is amazing. We love Italy, and you should go (and be smart about how you structure your trip).

If you’re planning a trip to Italy with 10 days to spend and you’re not sure where to start, this guide is for you!

We’re going to give you our version of the best way to spend 10 days in Italy for the first time all based on our own experiences over the course of multiple trips including Alysha’s six month stint living in Rome, almost six weeks in Italy a few years back, and another three weeks in 2022.

As if that wasn’t enough, Matt just got back from a trip to Rome in the spring of 2024, and we’re planning a trip to the Dolomites in the summer of 2025.

As you can pretty clearly see, we can’t get enough Italy in our lives.

In this guide to planning your 10 day Italy itinerary, here’s what we’re going to cover:

Exactly how to plan out your 10 day trip to Italy, including what stops to make, what route to take, and all the important logistics you need to know
A guide to what to do, where to stay, and how to get there for each stop on the itinerary
Options for shorter and longer trips if you have more or less time in Italy

Throughout the guide, we’ll share our favorite finds and experiences in Italy based on our multiple trips (including six weeks in Italy a couple of years ago, a more recent three week trip in the fall of 2022, and a relatively short trip to Rome in 2024) to help you plan your unforgettable trip.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Much Can You See With 10 Days?

The first thing we need to do as we get into exactly how to plan your itinerary is set expectations about what is possible with 10 days.

Italy is a big, big country, and 10 days is barely enough time to scratch the surface. 10 days is a great start to exploring Italy, but you’re going to have to pick and choose what to focus on.

I mean, I (Matt here!) have spent a full two and a half months in Italy over the past several years (including a five day stay in Rome in the spring of 2024), and I STILL haven’t made it to all the places I want to make it to (though I’ve made a good dent in my list now – Dolomites in the summer of 2025, here we come!).

We’d urge you to resist the temptation to continuously add places to your itinerary until you’re scooting around Italy like a madman (or madwoman), changing cities every day and sprinting between museums.

We’ve been there. Trust us.

We completely understand the temptation, have fallen victim to it many times, and are here to tell you that your trip will be much more relaxing, rewarding, and memorable if you spend more time in fewer places.

10 days is enough time to see some of the main highlights (like Rome and Venice), connect with locals and see their cities and countries through a different lens, eat some great food and drink some excellent wine (duh), and get a taste for what makes Italy special (and to populate your list for places you want to go on your return trip!).

We’ve also found time to visit some of our favorite underrated, less visited cities in Italy – namely Bologna (our favorite city in Italy) and Verona – along the way.

How to Structure Your Itinerary

As we’ve traveled more and more over the past several years, we’ve come to realize that we have a strong perspective on how to approach a longer trip (10+ days).

The first thing we want to say here is that you should dedicate at least 2-3 days to each of Italy’s big cities like Rome, Venice, Florence, or Milan .

Trying to do any of those cities in a day is going to be mayhem, and you will inevitably be checked out and ready for a nap in the early afternoon as you’re heading to your next attraction.

The reason that multiple days are better is to split up the main attractions.

Take Rome, whose two main attractions are the Colosseum and the Vatican in our minds. Trying to do those two things on the same day is going to sap you of all of your energy, and you won’t be able to focus on whichever one comes second.

Always always always split up those bigger attractions so that they fall on separate days when you can!

We also believe that it is almost always better to choose a home base for a longer period and do day trips from there rather than moving around every day or two .

In this case, with 10 days, we’d pick a maximum of three cities you want to use as a home base, and divide your time roughly equally between them.

For your first trip to Italy, we think those three cities should be Rome, Florence, and Venice .

Those three cities are great places to visit in their own right from a culture, history, and food perspective, but also are easily connected with Italy’s high speed train network. Plus, Florence in particular makes for a great home base for exploring multiple other places via day trip.

Where to Start and End Your Trip to Italy

The next thing to think about as you’re planning your trip is where you’re going to start and end your trip to Italy.

The first thing to know is that, if you can, you should book an “open jaw” flight – a flight that arrives in one city and departs from another – to cut down on backtracking and extra travel time.

If you follow the itinerary below as written, you’ll want to fly into Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and fly out of Venice’s Marco Polo Airport (VCE).

Both are big international airports, but will likely require a connection if you’re coming from outside of Europe (usually that connection will be London, Amsterdam, Paris, or Frankfurt, but it depends on the airline).

The other good international airports in Italy are in Milan, where there are actually two options, Malapensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN).

How to Get Around Once You’re in Italy

After you’ve arrived in Italy, the next thing to talk through is getting around within Italy.

The first thing we want to say is that you really, really don’t need to rent a car to do this trip .

In fact, we’d advise against it if you’re following the itinerary below as written (or close to it) because the car is going to be more of a hindrance than help in the cities, which is where you’ll spend most of your time (doing day trips from your home base in each city).

The second thing to know is that Italy has a robust train network , and that’s what you should use to get between cities.

You could fly between cities on this itinerary, but we highly recommend taking the train for a more pleasant and often more efficient journey.

We LOVE train travel (especially high speed train travel), and it is by far the most efficient way to connect the big cities.

A few things to know about train travel in Italy:

First, there are (essentially) two types of trains in Italy – high speed and regional – and they operate differently.

High speed trains are more expensive, significantly faster, and less flexible. To save time since you’ve only got a limited amount of it in Italy, you’ll want to take the high speed trains between cities. You’ll want to book your ticket as far in advance as possible, which usually will save you some money, but will be less flexible. If you want the flexibility, you’ll have to be prepared to pay a little extra.
Regional trains are slower, cheaper, and more flexible. They’re usually for connecting nearby smaller cities to each other (for example, there’s a regional train between Florence and Pisa). You can buy these tickets when you arrive at the station, and they’re more flexible. You need to make sure you validate them before boarding.

We’d take high speed trains between Rome and Florence, and between Florence and Venice.

For some of the day trips from Florence , regional trains will do.

The website for booking trains directly is Trenitalia , and it’s actually fairly streamlined and user-friendly. They even have a (mostly) functional app!

The only hiccup is that you need to know the name of the train station in Italian (e.g. typing “Venice” doesn’t work – you have to type “Veneto,” which is just Venice in Italian).

If you’re not comfortable with that, we’ve used Omio often to book trains around Europe, which is generally a far more streamlined experience (in English, no less).

How to Plan an Incredible 10 Day Italy Itinerary

Here’s what the itinerary you’re going to find below looks like written out.

Day 0: Arrive in Rome
Day 1: Rome
Day 2: Rome
Day 3: Rome
Day 4: Train to Florence + Explore Florence
Day 5: Florence
Day 6: Day Trip to Bologna
Day 7: Day Trip to Siena
Day 8: Train to Venice (early morning)
Day 9: Venice
Day 10: Venice + Fly Home

Obviously, you’ll have to massage this itinerary a little bit to make it work with your specific flights.

We’re assuming you have 10 full days in Italy, not including the half days that would be dedicated to your arriving and departing flights.

Note that this is very much a classic Italy itinerary that is meant to help you figure out the best way to see the main highlights in Italy with ten days (according to, well, us, who have spent a lot of time in Italy over the past several years – more than two months in total!).

Obviously, there is a LOT to see in Italy, and we have plenty of ideas on how to make changes to this itinerary.

For example, you could do a southern Italy itinerary that focuses more on Naples and the Amalfi Coast after spending a few days in Rome, or a northern Italy itinerary that focuses on the Dolomites, Lake Como, and Milan. It all depends on what you’re looking for.

You’ll find some of our ideas in the “with more time” section below, which you can use to make changes to your itinerary based on your specific style and needs.

Days 1-3: Rome

Ah, Roma. Collectively we’ve spent quite a bit of time in Rome now. I (Matt here) have been to Rome five or six times (it’s hard to keep track at this point!), including a recent trip in the spring of 2024.

Alysha has been a similar number of times, including a six month stint living in Rome.

We love Rome, and I love talking to people about Rome because many people use adjectives like “dirty” and “chaotic” to describe it, and they mean it in a negative way.

And, to be honest, those adjectives are almost 100% deserved. But, for us, that’s part of the charm of Rome. We’re city people, and the sheer energy that you feel walking around Rome is similar to the energy you feel wandering around New York City, though significantly less overwhelming.

There is a ton of history in Rome, and it’s a great place to learn about not only the Roman empire, which was centered in Rome, but also the modern state of Italy, which is one of the newest countries in Europe having only been unified in the 19th Century after centuries of being a collection of independent states with different laws, languages, and cultures.

We also really like the food culture in Rome. Contrary to what you’d expect if you’re picturing the opulence of Ancient Rome, the ingredients used in modern Roman cuisine are much more modest.

The four Roman pastas – Carbonara, Amatriciana, Cacio e Pepe, and Alla Gricia – are all very rustic, as are the fried artichokes, supplì (fried rice balls similar to arancini), and pizza al taglio that make up the other main staples in Rome.

Getting From the Airport to Rome

In all likelihood, you’ll be flying into Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO) , which is the busiest airport in Italy.

The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center is going to be taking the Leonardo Express , a direct, air conditioned train that runs directly from the airport to Termini Station, Rome’s main train station.

The advantages here far outweigh the disadvantages. You’re not subject to the near-constant traffic in Rome, it’s clean, comfortable, and affordable, and it’s easy to find in the airport.

The only downside is that, depending on where you’re staying, you might need to take a taxi or bus from Termini Station to your hotel.

If you’re coming from within Europe (especially on a budget airline), there’s a chance you’ll come into Ciampino Airport (CIA) , which is far more limited in terms of ways to get to the city center, but takes about the same amount of time in the end if you take the Ciampino Airlink .

What to Do in Rome

Here are some things that we think you definitely shouldn’t miss while you’re in Rome.

Our most important tip here is to not do multiple big attractions (e.g. the Colosseum, Vatican, or Borghese Gallery) on the same day, because you will be exhausted by the time you START the second attraction.

That’s also part of the reason why we recommend 2+ days in each city – so you have time to split things up and do the main attractions on separate days.

The Colosseum & Roman Forum

The Colosseum and Roman Forum are the first of the two big tourist attractions in Rome, and it’s something you’re not going to want to miss.

First of all, we’d highly recommend heading to this garden early in the morning or late at night for an excellent view (and picture) of the Colosseum, and this viewpoint for a great view of the Forum from above.

Second of all, if you only have time or budget for one guided tour in Rome, it should probably be here.

It’s hard to wrap your head around what you’re seeing as you walk through the mostly crumbling buildings, and a guide will help you contextualize and comprehend the history you’re seeing, which will lead to a much richer experience in the end (which is what we’re always looking for!).

We have personally done both this guided tour , which is a great dive into this rich piece of history, and also this nighttime VIP tour , which takes you under the floor of the Colosseum at night, when it is MUCH quieter than the daytime tours (but, crucially, DOES NOT visit the Forum).

Both are with Walks of Italy, our favorite tour company in Italy – you can read more about our experience on the Colosseum tour that challenged our preconceived notions.

Marvel at the Collection at the Vatican Museums (and St. Peter’s Basilica)

I have now visited the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica three separate times across multiple trips, and I can confidently say that I still don’t think I’ve seen everything.

The Vatican Museums is a truly mindblowing collection of art that the Catholic Church has either accumulated or commissioned over the course of its centuries as one of the main power centers in Europe.

There are two aspects here – the Museums (which includes the Sistine Chapel) and St. Peter’s Basilica, and you’ll want to see both. It’s going to take the vast majority of the day to do both, because it’s A LOT. The other thing we’d say is that you’ll want to get in as early as humanly possible, because it’s EXTREMELY busy and claustrophobic at peak times.

Book your entry tickets well in advance, and select the earliest time slot of the day.

On my last trip, I did this early morning tour with Walks of Italy , which was great.

However, it is worth noting that there will be other people in the Sistine Chapel due to changes that the Vatican has made to visitor hours over the past few years – if you truly want to be alone, you’ll have to splurge on this tour where you’re there when they open the doors to the Sistine Chapel.

Walking the Centro Storico (in the early morning!)

The Centro Storico is Rome’s historic center (though most of the ornate fountains and buildings you see today are actually from the Baroque period in the 17th Century, ish).

It’s a treasure trove of the most famous sites in Rome, including Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, the Pantheon, and, of course, the Trevi Fountain.

Once again, this is something you should do as early in the morning as you possibly can because otherwise, the cobbled, narrow streets in this part of the city are packed wall-to-wall with visitors all wanting to see the same things you do.

Get out here between 7am and 8am and it’s a much different story.

Here’s a route that we have done multiple times, and gets you to the main sites (start from the northern end, and don’t skip Terrazza del Pincio for excellent views of the city).

Along the way, stop at either Tazza d’Oro or Sant’ Eustachio for a quintessential Italian coffee experience (stand at the bar, order a cafe or cappuccino, and enjoy the ruthless efficiency of the baristas).

Spend an Evening in Trastevere

Trastevere is our favorite part of Rome. It’s all narrow cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, a lively atmosphere, and great places to eat and drink. We think it’s at its best in the evening, when it’s packed with people wandering the streets, eating on one of the many al fresco patios, and hanging out in its many piazzas.

A few favorites: Fatamorgana for gelato, Les Vignerons for a nice selection of beer and wine by the bottle, Supplì Roma for a Roman classic (similar to arancini in Sicily), and Enoteca Cuverie for a nice, quiet wine bar in a quieter part of the neighborhood.

Seek Out the Best Views in Rome

One of our favorite parts about Rome is the view from above, because it’s a sea of domes as far as the eye can see (almost literally).

We have a couple of favorite viewpoints, including the previously mentioned Terrazza del Pincio ( here on Google Maps). We also really like the view from the Giardino degli Aranci (“Orange Garden” – here on Google Maps) and from the top of Castel Sant’Angelo (which is definitely worth a visit – here on Google Maps).

One last viewpoint is the walk up to Piazza Garibaldi, which is a piazza above Trastevere with excellent views of the city ( here’s a route that takes you to a couple of other nice sites along the way).

Obviously, Rome is a huge, complex, history-filled city, and there is plenty more to do, see, eat, and drink in it.

For more, we’d point you to our 4 day Rome itinerary and our guide to the best things to do in Rome (for first timers) , which have all of our favorite things to do, see, eat, and drink in the Italian capital.

Where to Stay in Rome

We’ve spent multiple weeks in Rome over the past few years, and Alysha lived there for six months in college, so we think that we have a better than average working knowledge of Rome’s neighborhoods, at least compared to people who have only spent a few days there.

In our minds, there are really only two options when it comes to neighborhoods we like to stay in.

For all of the details behind this summary below, we’d point you to our more detailed guide to the best places to stay in Rome , which has a complete neighborhood guide for all of the neighborhoods mentioned below.

The first (and best for first timers, we think) is the Centro Storico , which is the charming historic center of Rome – specifically the southwestern end between Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona.

Many of our favorites in Rome – our favorite walk, our favorite Italian-style coffee bar, our favorite wine bar – are tucked away in this network of cobblestone streets, and it’s about as central as you can get.

The downside is that it is absolutely packed with tourists between 10am and 7pm, and it’s going to be a little more expensive (you’re paying for the location).

We spent a week here recently, and we wanted an apartment with a little more room to spread out (plus, a kitchen) and stayed at these lovely apartments , which we’d wholeheartedly recommend.

It’s in a great location too – just 10 minutes on foot to the center of all the action.

The second area to consider, and our absolute favorite neighborhood in Rome, is Trastevere .

We stayed there for the last leg of our long trip to Rome a few years ago (after Matt had stayed there before) and fell in love all over again.

Charming cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways with ivy-lined buildings, cafes spilling out into piazzas at the foot of churches. It’s the most romantic part of Rome. It also has some of the best nightlife in Rome.

We stayed at Horti 14 Borgo on our last trip together (Matt has since been solo in the spring of 2024), which was a bit of a splurge for us, but the friendly service, incredible breakfast spread (which is included), and quiet location made it worth it.

Days 4-7: Florence + Day Trips to Bologna & Siena

Florence and Rome as the first two stops on this itinerary provide you a nice contrast, because we think they’re very different cities despite being only an hour and a half apart by high speed train.

Rome is massive, sprawling, and chaotic. Florence is compact and busy, but doesn’t have the same “am I going to get run over by a scooter crossing the street” vibe that Rome does. It’s a much more organized, controlled chaos, if that makes sense.

The main difference in our view is the fact that, starting in the 15th and 16th Centuries, Florence was one of the wealthiest cities in the world, and was on the forefront of the Renaissance (if not the movement’s birthplace). Contrast that with Rome, which has not been a terribly wealthy city in the past 1,000 years (if not more).

The difference between Rome and Florence is kind of like the difference between the Colosseum and Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

The first is a big important historical site, but it’s relatively modest in its decoration (as modest as a massive arena built a couple thousand years ago can be), the second is much more ornate and projects the obscene wealth that went into the commissioning of the various pieces of it.

The thing to keep in mind here is the fact that the relationship between wealth and art flows in that direction. Wealth brings the ability to commission the most famous artists in the world to create all the beautiful art you see in Florence today.

The result of all the wealth that flowed into Florence is a more modern city than Rome is, with incredible architecture that features more ornate decorations than Rome.

Plus, the collection of art in the city’s museums – the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze (home of Michaelangelo’s famous statue of David) – is second to none, and it’s a great place to learn about how the Renaissance fundamentally changed art forever.

As we mentioned above, Florence is no less busy than Rome, but the compact nature of the city center means the same number of people are packed into a much smaller space. Walking through all corners of Florence’s city center feels sort of similar to Rome’s Centro Storico in terms of being packed wall-to-wall during peak hours.

However, there are charming corners to be found around Florence (like across the river in Oltrarno), especially in the early morning and later in the evening when the tour buses and day trippers have gone home.

Getting from Rome to Florence

From Rome, it’s a quick and easy high speed train ride to Florence.

You’ll leave from Rome’s Termini Station , and you want to arrive at Santa Maria Novella in Florence. There are many, many trains running this route each day.

To maximize your time, you’re going to want to book either the “Frecciarossa” or “Italo” trains, which cover the distance in an hour and a half (versus three hours or so on a regional train line).

For your purposes, Frecciarossa (run by Trenitalia, the national rail company) and Italo (run by a private company) are essentially the same. Pick whichever one is best in terms of timing and prices.

What to Do in Florence

Here are some things that we think you definitely shouldn’t miss while you’re in Florence.

The Uffizi Gallery

If you only have time for one tour in Florence, this is by far our top pick for the destination. The Uffizi Gallery is a collection of art that focuses on the Renaissance, and it’s organized in (roughly) chronological order so that you can see the progression as the movement took hold of the artists working in Florence. I’ve done it three times – once on my own, and two separate tours – and I’d highly recommend a tour here, if you can swing it. A tour is going to help you understand the pieces themselves – there are countless details in each piece of art that we never would notice without someone explaining them to us – and how they fit into the broader story of the Renaissance and its impact on art history. Of the tours I’ve done, this tour was by far the best crash course, and it ends inside the museum so you can spend more time, if you’d like.

The Statue of David (and the Galleria dell’Accademia)

I’ve read a lot of travel guides about the famous statue of David, which is housed inside the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze today, that say something to the effect of “just go see the replica of the statue in piazza della Signoria, which is free.”

And, if you have limited time, I would definitely focus on the Uffizi Gallery.

However, I do think that there is a lot of interesting work from Michelangelo in the Accademia that tells a story of how he worked his way to making the David.

If you’re interested in that progression and the artist’s fascination with the human body, it’s worth spending an hour or two in the Accademia (and seeing the statue in that context here you can walk all the way around it is also cool).

Book your tickets well in advance – we’re talking as soon as you know you’ll be in Florence – to avoid standing in the ticket office line (you will still have to stand in the security line), which you can do on the official website .

I’ve also done this guided tour of the gallery with my mom, which allows you to skip the long lines (and get tickets if they’re sold out through the official site) and it was a great overview of the story of Michelangelo and his career leading up to the David.

The Duomo di Firenze

The Duomo di Firenze (also known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) is massive, and is the centerpiece of Florence’s historic center.

It was constructed over the course of 150 years or so, starting at the end of the 13th Century and being consecrated in 1436 (though the facade wasn’t actually completely finished until the 19th Century).

There are multiple components to see here, and of them all, the one we’d focus on is Brunelleschi’s dome, which is impressive both on the inside and the outside, where you’ll find sweeping views out over the city of Florence.

The climb to the top of the dome does require a steep, narrow staircase with 400+ steps, which isn’t for everyone. However, you get excellent views of the interior of the dome as you pass along a walkway just below the dome (which can get claustrophobic as people stop to marvel at the art).

You can buy tickets here , and if you want to climb the dome, you’ll need to get the “Brunelleschi Pass” – the only ticket that includes climbing the dome. Choose either the earliest or latest time slot for the smallest crowds.

Piazzale Michelangelo & Oltrarno

Aside from the view from the dome, this is probably our favorite view of Florence. It’s on the other side of the Arno River (the river that runs through Florence), and it’s worth spending an afternoon exploring this less-visited neighborhood (though, it’s still Florence, so expect to see plenty of tourists).

Our recommendation would be to walk up to the piazza and back down through Oltrarno, stopping for wine at Le Volpi e l’Uva (which has wine from all over Italy, including some local varietals), gelato at Gelateria Della Passera (recommended by Alysha AND our host at a local winery), and Ditta Artiginale for coffee (Matt’s favorite coffee on this side of the river) on your way down to Piazza Santo Spirito, the beating heart of the neighborhood.

Here’s a map of the route with our favorite stops on Google Maps.

Take a Day Trip to Bologna (Day Trip #1)

Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna, the region immediately north of Tuscany, and it’s our favorite city in Italy.

First of all, the food is unparalleled. Bolognese, prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar of Modena, parmesan-reggiano, mortadella – it all comes from the area around Bologna!

Plus, it is a gorgeous college town with a youthful energy and a TINY fraction of the tourists you’ll see in most other cities in Italy.

We love Bologna, and it’s the first place we’d add more time if you have it (for more, see the “with more time section” below the itinerary).

We have an entire guide dedicated to spending one amazing day in Bologna , which has all the details you need to plan your day trip (including how to get there, what to do and see, and what to eat and drink).

Take a Day Trip to Siena (Day Trip #2)

Tuscany – the broader region that Florence is the capital of – is known for its hilltop towns, which dot the landscape in the heart of Tuscany to the south of Florence.

Siena is, perhaps, the best example of this phenomenon. More importantly, it’s the most accessible by public transportation, and it’s an easy train (or bus) ride away from Florence.

When you’re in Siena, we definitely wouldn’t miss the Duomo di Siena (and its incredible tiled floor, if it’s uncovered for the season!), the climb up to the Facciatone (observation deck with great views of the cathedral), and this walking tour that we enjoyed, which gives you a great overview of the city and its history as a powerful city-state in central Italy.

Obviously, Florence is a complex, history-filled city, and there is plenty more to do, see, eat, and drink than the few bullets above.

For more, we’d point you to our 3 day Florence itinerary and our guide to the best things to do in Florence (for first timers) , which have all of our favorite things to do, see, eat, and drink.

Where to Stay in Florence

Florence’s city center is pretty compact as big Italian cities go, which means it matters slightly less where you stay because it’s all within a 15 minute walk of the main sights.

However, there are two areas that stick out in our minds as our favorite neighborhoods in Florence.

We stayed in Santa Croce (also called Sant’Ambrogio) – the neighborhood where Leonardo Davinci grew up that is named after the church, where he is buried – and it’s a great option because it’s central, but far enough removed from the historic center to have fewer tourists (slightly) and better places to eat and drink.

From there, you’ll be able to walk to the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and the river, all within 15 minutes or so.

We stayed at Pietrapiana Boutique Apartments , which were tucked away in a quiet courtyard away from the hustle and bustle with beautiful, spacious rooms. It was one of our favorite stays in Italy.

If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel (that’s also fairly affordable), look at the Eurostars Hotel a few blocks southeast of the church.

The other place we’d like to stay (though we haven’t stayed there yet) is Oltrarno , which is in many ways a more authentic version of Florence, where locals actually live.

It’s just across the Arno River from the Centro Storico, which is where you’ll find a few of the best views in Florence (including the famous Piazzale Michelangelo).

The result is a vibrant neighborhood with a good selection of food and drinks, charming piazzas, all within a 15 minute walk of the main attractions in Florence.

The downside of staying here is that there are far fewer options in terms of hotels and guesthouses.

For all of the details behind this summary below, we’d point you to our more detailed guide to the best places to stay in Florence , which has a complete neighborhood guide for the neighborhoods mentioned above.

Days 8-10: Venice + Day Trip to Verona

We have somewhat mixed feelings about Venice, and contemplated completely skipping Venice in favor of Milan here in this itinerary.

Venice is a city that has been plagued by overtourism for decades, and the reason why it matters is the simple fact that a city like Venice – which famously sits on a series of canals – is just not built to handle the sheer number of people that descend on it on a daily basis, year round.

This is especially true when the cruise ships dock and flood the relatively small city center of Venice with thousands of tourists, which is a growing challenge facing the city because the infrastructure is just not built to handle it.

However, after multiple conversations about it, we do think Venice is worth seeing once, especially if you’re able to spend a few days there to see it at its best – which is to say in the early mornings and evenings, when the city empties out and is a much more tranquil experience.

If you’re going to include Venice, we’d make sure to include 2-3 days in the city to give yourself plenty of time to see the city, and, with three days, do a day trip to nearby Verona (one of our favorite cities in northern Italy).

To be fair to Venice, the history here is equally fascinating to the other cities you’ve visited.

As we’ve covered already, Italy was a series of independent city states and republics until the 19th Century, and Venice was among the most prolific and powerful for the last 1,000 years or so (until it all fell apart at the end of the 18th Century).

You’ll see that wealth, which came primarily from its prowess as a seafaring and merchant power, reflected in the architecture, like the famous bridges and the intricate beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica.

Venice is truly a beautiful city, between the Grand Canal snaking its way through the center and the gorgeous architecture, but it does require some finesse to see it without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.

Getting From Florence to Venice

The train ride from Florence to Venice will take a hair over two hours on a high speed train. You want to leave from Santa Maria Novella (again, the most convenient train station in Florence) and arrive at Santa Lucia in Venice .

And, again, you’re going to want the high speed train options here – either Frecciarossa or Italo – because it will take half as long (two hours and fifteen minutes) as the regional trains.

What to Do in Venice

Here are some things that we think you definitely shouldn’t miss while you’re in Venice.

Piazza San Marco and St. Mark’s Basilica

This basilica offers a different style than anything you’ve seen so far in Italy (assuming you’ve followed this itinerary) with its mosaics, facade, and stunning ornate interior.

Construction here began in the 11th Century, and by the 14th Century, Venice’s wealth had grown to a point where they decided to start replacing the less impressive pieces of the facade with things like expensive marble.

Then, during the 4th Crusade, they stole a bunch of stuff from Constantinople and brought it back to put in and around the church.

The church itself is free to enter, but you can skip the sometimes long lines by reserving a ticket and timeslot in advance for €6 (which you can do here ). Given limited time, we’d highly suggest going that route (the lines can be LONG and this completely bypasses that line).

If you have the time and budget, it’s worth considering climbing the bell tower for €12, which gives you some nice views out over Venice and the lagoon. Best to book far in advance, because they do sell out and if you don’t get a ticket in advance, you’ll have to wait in the long line.

The Doge’s Palace

The Doge of Venice was analogous to a Duke, meaning it was the person at the top of the food chain. The Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) is, as you might have guessed, where the Doge lived and worked.

Today, it’s a public museum, and there has been significant resources put towards the restoration and renovation of the interior and exterior (pieces of the palace have burned down multiple times since its construction).

The architecture – which is in a style that is unique to Venice, Venetian Gothic – is worth the price of admission. It’s a weird mix of a bunch of different styles we’ve seen around Europe, and it’s very unique (and, of course, ornate).

Buy tickets in advance and reserve a timeslot on the official website (you can either buy a combo ticket that includes a bunch of the other public museums in Venice, or a ticket for just the Palazzo Ducale – which you choose depends on what else you want to see in Venice).

Heads up: it’s marginally cheaper if you buy a ticket 30+ days in advance of your visit.

We haven’t done it ourselves yet, but we’d do the Secret Itineraries guided tour of the palace, which will give you some of the history and context around the importance of the building and the Doge’s role in Venice.

Ride Around on the Vaporetti

The public ferries in Venice – the Vaporetti (vaporetto is the singular version) – are both a very useful form of public transportation (we’re big fans of ferries as public transit, like the ferries in New York City!) and a tourist attraction in their own right because the best way to see Venice is from the water (we think).

This is an opportunity to do just that without the absurdly high prices of the gondola rides (which we’d skip).

You can basically do an entire tour of the Grand Canal – the main canal in Venice – on the #2 route for €7 or so, which is kind of cool.

Head out to Burano and Murano

Venice is known for their handblown glass, and the best way to see it is by heading out to the islands to the north of Venice, Murano and Burano.

You can get their on your own by taking the normal vaporetti from this dock (they run roughly every 30 minutes during the day, and the ride takes 30 minutes or so to Murano, double that to Burano).

You have to go through Murano to get out to Burano, so you can pretty easily combine them into a nice half day trip.

Once you’re out there, there’s a lot of places to see traditional (ish) glass blowing, buy souvenirs, and wander a bit. Our top tip would be to make sure to take some time to get far away from the boat dock, because that will be the most crowded part of the island.

See the Bridges

As a city full of canals, Venice has some pretty incredible bridges that are both functional and beautiful.

The most famous is Rialto Bridge ( here on Google Maps), and it’s worth coming here around 7am to see it without the zoo of people that you’ll find here between 9am and 10pm or so.

Other bridges to seek out are Ponte dell’Accademia ( here on Google Maps) and the Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs, here on Google Maps). There’s a good view of the Bridge of Sighs from this bridge a short walk south.

A Day Trip to Verona

Verona is another city that we really love, and though it’s not exactly off the beaten path – plenty of tourists come to Verona – it’s certainly on a different level from places like Rome and Venice.

Getting to Verona from Venice is an easy 90 minute ride on the regional train line that leaves from Venice’s main train station (you’re going to Verona Porta Nuova).

Once you’re in Verona, we’d make sure not to miss the Arena di Verona (check their calendar to see if they have any outdoor concerts while you’re there!) and the Museo Archeologico al Teatro Romano (and it’s lovely theater and views out over Verona).

For the best views of Verona, head up to the viewpoint up at Castel San Pietro ( here on Google Maps – the walk up through the narrow alleyways is also nice).

We have an entire guide to Verona that you should read for more, but our number one tip is DO NOT go to the Casa di Giulietta , which is the most overrated tourist attraction we’ve ever personally experienced.

Where to Stay in Venice

The first decision you’ll need to make here is deciding whether or not to stay in Venice itself – meaning in the historic center of Venice along the canals – or in the more modern city on the shore, which is cheaper but requires a train journey to reach the part of Venice you want to visit.

Because we think Venice is at its best when it has emptied out and all the day trippers have left, we think it really makes sense to pay the premium to stay along the canals here .

The next decision you’ll need to make when deciding where to stay is going to be what neighborhood to base yourself in. Despite being on the water, it’s actually not as compact as you might expect (which makes the city all that much more impressive, we think).

Generally speaking, we like the southern end of the city, and think that the adjacent neighborhoods of San Polo (more central, equidistant between the train station and Piazza San Marco) and San Marco (which is the in the southern part of the city, near Piazza San Marco – which means it’s not going to be quiet or low key – but far from the train station).

What to Do with More Time in Italy

If you have more time in Italy, here are the things we’d add (along with how much time you need to add them).

We also have an in-depth guide to planning a 14 day Italy itinerary , if you happen to have two weeks to spend. There are even more ideas on what to do with more time there.

More Time in Bologna (+1-2 Days)

If we’re being completely honest, we would completely skip Venice and spend that extra time in Bologna (or Milan, or Verona), but that’s partially because we’ve seen Venice already, and don’t feel a great need to see it again.

Bologna is, hands down, our favorite city in Italy.

Matt plays a lot of soccer at home in Portland and occasionally wears his Bologna FC jersey, and roughly every other time someone recognizes it and says something to the effect of “is that a… Bologna jersey?”

That conversation usually evolves into some version of Matt telling the person that Bologna is his favorite city in Italy and, on occasion, meeting someone who has lived in Bologna and 100% agrees with that statement (almost always because of the food).

Bologna is the best food city in Italy, mostly because the region it is the capital of – Emilia Romagna – is the birthplace of many of the Italian ingredients that you know and love.

Prosciutto di Parma, Parmesan-Reggiano, Balsamic Vinegar di Modena, lambrusco (a lovely sparkling red wine, traditionally a dry wine) all come from Emilia Romagna, which is the region immediately to the north of Tuscany.

You could – and Matt has – spend the better part of a week eating and drinking your way through this part of central Italy, and it actually makes a great home base for exploring other parts of the country because almost every high speed train makes a stop in Bologna, which is at the crossroads of two main high speed rail lines running north-south through Italy.

We love Bologna, and it’s certainly worth more than a day trip. If you have an extra day or two to spend in Bologna, eating and drinking your way through the youthful, vibrant city, you won’t regret it.

To plan your extra time, use our guides to spending 2 days in Bologna , and our guide to where to stay in Bologna .

Milan (+1-3 Days)

Of the destinations we could have added to the main itinerary in place of Venice, Milan is a strong second contender for a couple of reasons.

First, it’s yet another contrast from Rome (and Florence) in that Milan feels significantly more modern and cosmopolitan than those cities.

There are multiple reasons for this, including but not limited to the wealth in northern Italy (Milan is the financial capital of Italy AND the home of all the Italian fashion brands), the fact that it was seen as sort of a backwater back in Roman times, and the fact that it doesn’t follow stereotypical Italian stereotypes (they swap out pasta for rice, which grows in a prolific fashion in the swampy areas outside of Milan).

Second, the Duomo di Milano is worth visiting Milan for. It was constructed over hundreds and hundreds of years, which is why it’s sort of a mishmash of architectural styles (it started in the 14th Century and only finished in the mid-20th Century).

Fun fact: Napoleon crowned himself king of Italy here (there’s a tapestry inside depicting the scene), and there’s a plaque that commemorates that that I saw, said “wait, Napoleon did what now?”, and found myself in a rabbit hole of the history of Napoleon for the next 12-18 months.

Third, Milan’s airport (really, airports, because there are two main airports just outside of Milan) is the second best international airport in the country in terms of connections, so it’ll likely be an easier flight home.

Anyway, the point is that Milan is a pretty fascinating city with a good food and drink scene – that features far more global cuisines than you’ll find in Rome, Florence, or Venice – and offers a slightly different look at the diverse history and cultures that you’ll find in Italy.

We think 1-2 days is enough, and you can add another day to do a day trip to somewhere like Lake Como or Torino.

Guess what? We have a bunch of guides to help you plan a short trip to Milan!

We have a guide to spending a day in Milan , which fits the main highlights (including the Last Supper) into one action-packed day.

We also have an extended guide to 2 days in Milan , which is a similar itinerary at a more relaxed pace.

Last but not least, we have a guide to choosing the best place to stay in Milan based on your particular style and budget, which will be helpful in deciding where to base yourself for your trip.

Tuscany (+2-7 Days)

Florence, which you already have a nice chunk of time in, is the capital of Tuscany, and it’s worth tacking on anywhere from 3-7 extra days to explore the rest of the region.

A few years ago, Matt spent a week in Tuscany with his mom for her 60th birthday, and we both fell in love with the region (despite the fact that the wine in Tuscany is not our type, for the most part). However, the food and the vibe – that dolce vita – is definitely our thing.

Tuscany is a relatively large swath of land that, unbeknownst to me until I was standing in Volterra looking at the coast, spans all the way past Pisa to Italy’s western coast.

However, the part of Tuscany that you probably picture in your mind is the Val d’Orcia, which is just southeast of the city of Siena (also worth a visit) and is where you’ll find the towns of Montepulciano, Montalcino, and Pienza (our personal favorite of the three).

If you’re interested in rolling hills (that are sometimes green, sometimes golden depending on the time of year), cypress trees, excellent red wine, and rustic, rich food, this is the place for you.

On the eastern end of Tuscany, you’ll find the tower-filled town of San Gimignano and the hilltop town of Volterra (made famous by the Twilight saga) with its Etruscan roots and Roman ruins.

Lucky for you, we have an entire guide dedicated to planning a Tuscany itinerary that you can use to figure out what to see with the number of days you have.

Here’s an overview:

With 1-2 days, do Siena.
With 3-5 days, add the Val d’Orcia (and rent a car).
With 6-7 days, add San Gimignano and Volterra

Sicily (+7-14 Days)

Alysha’s dad’s side of the family immigrated to the United States from Sicily two generations back (so Alysha’s grandfather was born in Sicily), and Matt’s grandfather’s parents were also born in Sicily (here’s hoping we’re not distant relatives).

We decided to spend a really nice chunk of time in Sicily a few years ago, and found ourselves marveling at two things.

First, the sheer size of Sicily. Even with three weeks, we spent hours of our Sicily trip driving through towns and past beaches that, I’m certain, were beautiful and worth seeing.

Second, the sheer amount of history in Sicily. There are innumerable ruins in Sicily, ranging from Greek to Phoenician to Roman to Norman. Combine that history with the beautiful landscapes and the towering mass of Mount Etna and you’ve got yourself a beautiful place to spend a week or two (or more, if you have it).

Here’s our biggest tip for Sicily: we would strongly suggest limiting yourself to one part of the island if you have anything less than a week.

If you only have a week, we’d spend it on the southeastern coast around Catania, Siracusa and Ortigia, and Taormina, with day trips inland to Noto and Mount Etna.

Lucky for you, we have an entire guide dedicated to planning a week in Sicily , focused on that southeastern corner. We’d read that for more detail on how to plan a shorter trip.

With two weeks or more, expand your trip to the rest of the island. Our favorite spots in Sicily were the Val di Noto, Agrigento, and Palermo, and we have a longer guide to planning your Sicily itinerary for a trip of 10-21 days.

Cinque Terre (+2-4 Days)

Similar to Venice (and the Amalfi Coast), we have mixed feelings about the Cinque Terre (which means “five towns” in Italian because the area is a chain of five coastal towns just north of Spezia).

On one hand, it’s pretty obvious why people are drawn to this tiny slice of coastal paradise (and why it is a Unesco World Heritage Site). It’s beautiful and dramatic, with steep cliffs and narrow coastal walkways bringing you to towns set into the cliff sides with colorful houses and wonderful sea views.

On the other hand, it’s also pretty obvious that the infrastructure here is really not meant to have thousands of people per day flooding each of the five towns that make up the Cinque Terre.

This is another place that we’d only recommend if you have two or more days. Partially because it’s a pain to get to from anywhere in Italy (which means a day trip is probably off the table), partially because it’s a place that, like Venice, you need to have the early mornings and late evenings to truly appreciate, when all the day trippers have exited the towns and they’re (relatively) quiet and peaceful.

On that 60th birthday trip with my mom a few years back, we picked up my brother and spent four days in Cinque Terre, and I think that’s probably the right amount of time to spend here. There are some great hikes, some great sunset viewpoints, and some good food and wine to be had.

Rather than cover it all here, we have separate guides to planning a Cinque Terre itinerary (including all the logistics), a guide to our favorite things to do in Cinque Terre (for first timers), and a guide to the best places to stay in Cinque Terre .

We’d head over to those guides to plan a side trip to the Cinque Terre to add onto the main itinerary (and we’d do it between Florence and northern Italy – Milan is the easiest major city to reach Cinque Terre from).

What to Do with Less Time in Italy

If you find yourself with less than 10 days, we’d strongly recommend reducing the amount of ground you plan on covering in Italy.

With 8-9 days, we’d go ahead and cut some of the day trips from either Florence or Venice and focus instead on seeing the cities themselves.

With 7 days, you have two options, and it depends on what you’re looking for out of your trip to Italy.

Your first option is to follow our 7 day Italy itinerary , which is basically a more fast-paced, condensed version of this itinerary that has you visiting Rome, Florence, and Venice over the course of a week.

Your second option would be to split your time between two cities, use them as a base for day trips, and move a little slower. You could do something like Rome and Florence (or Bologna) and cover a lot of ground in central Italy.

With five or six days, we’d opt to split time between Rome and Florence, basically following the first chunk of this itinerary as written with three (ish) days in Rome and Florence.

Anything less than five days? Spend your time in one city (we’d do either Rome, or Bologna as a wildcard) and use it as a base to do day trips from (you could do a day trip from Rome to Florence if you really wanted).

Planning a trip to Italy? We’d love to help!

Here are our other Italy travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

If you’re planning a trip and you’re not sure where to start, your first stop should probably be one of our detailed itineraries.

We have a two week Italy itinerary that blends the main cities with some less-visited cities that we love (BOLOGNA!), a guide to spending 10 days in Italy that focuses mostly on the highlights, and a whirlwind guide to spending one week in Italy that features the Rome – Florence – Venice highlight circuit.

Here are more specific guides to the main cities in Italy.

What to do in Rome (as a First Timer)
How to Plan an Amazing 4 Day Rome Itinerary
Where to Stay in Rome: A Complete Guide for First Timers
12 Things to Know Before You Visit Rome
Gluten Free Rome: A Complete Guide to GF Restaurants + Bakeries
Where to Find the Best Specialty Coffee in Rome
What to do in Florence (as a First Timer)
How to Plan an Amazing Florence Itinerary (3 Days)
Where to Stay in Florence: A Complete Guide for First Timers
Gluten Free Florence: A Complete Guide to GF Restaurants + Bakeries
Where to Find the Best Specialty Coffee in Florence (for Coffee Nerds)
The Best Day Trips from Florence (Complete Planning Guide)
What to do in Bologna (as a First Timer)
How to Spend One Incredible Day in Bologna
How to Plan an Amazing Bologna Itinerary (2 Days)
Where to Stay in Bologna: A Complete Guide for First Timers

Cinque Terre

What to do in Cinque Terre (as a First Timer)
How to Plan an Amazing Cinque Terre Itinerary (2 Days)
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre: A Complete Guide for First Timers
What to do in Milan (as a First Timer)
How to Plan an Amazing Milan Itinerary (2 Days)
Where to Stay in Milan: A Complete Guide for First Timers
Gluten Free Milan: A Complete Guide to GF Restaurants + Bakeries
Where to Find the Best Specialty Coffee in Milan (for Coffee Nerds)

The Rest of Italy

How to Plan an Incredible Sicily Road Trip Itinerary (14 Days)
Exactly How to Spend 7 Days in Sicily
How to Plan an Incredible Tuscany Itinerary (7 Days)

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Great info, thanks! We are planning a trip next May. Flying to Rome and driving to Pienza for a couple of days, then to Volterra for 3 days ,and then into Florence for 4 and then back to Rome for 4 last days…should be a fun first time trip!

Sounds like a lovely trip! May should be a nice time to be there too. Cheers!

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Pretty sunset over a cinque terre village you will see on your Italy itinerary

10 Days In Italy Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip To Italy

November 24, 2023 // by Follow Me Away // 14 Comments

If you are searching for the perfect 10 days in Italy itinerary, you have come to the right place!

Planning an Italy itinerary should be fun and exciting, not stressful. I put together this detailed Italy travel guide to show you the ropes!

I have visited Italy multiple times over the years and absolutely love it! With so much time spent here, I know how to plan a trip to Italy.

This best itinerary for Italy includes some of the most famous things to do in Italy as well as some lesser-known suggestions not often recommended by others.

Planning your trip to Italy last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Italy in advance to ensure availability! Here are my top picks for your trip!

Tickets you MUST book in advance:

Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel (A MUST in advance)
Colosseum Entry Tickets (Another MUST! Book online in advance!)
Michelangelo’s David Tickets (Often sells out in Florence)
Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Tickets (Buy online to save time!)
Doge’s Palace Entry Ticket (Very busy, can sell out)
Milan Cathedral And Rooftop Tickets (Sells out and a must-see!)

Top picks for places to stay in Italy:

Rome: Hotel Relais Dei Papi (Amazing Vatican location)
Florence: Relais Pizza Signoria (City center location)
Venice: Hotel Carlton Grand Canal (Grand Canal views!)
Dolomites: Parkhotel Laurin (Central location with pool!)
Cinque Terre: Affittacamere Casa Dane’ (Affordable location)
Milan: Collini Rooms (Just 10 min from Milan airport!)

I want you to see the best of what Italy has to offer on your first trip. My Italy travel planner includes the highlights as well as some mountain towns and seaside villages.

For this classic Italy itinerary, I will provide a breakdown of the stops I recommend and the best sites to see. Since everyone is different, I won’t tell you how long you should stay at each stop but will provide my recommendations.

Feel free to adjust this sample Italy itinerary to fit your interests. Stay longer where you want and skip what you are uninterested in.

Instead of planning out every moment of every day of your vacation, I provide you with a structured yet loose itinerary to follow for your first trip to Italy!

My example itinerary does skip Southern Italy, so you will have to plan another trip!

Before you go, make sure you aren’t forgetting any of these things on your Italy packing list!

Now, let’s look at what to do in Italy for 10 days!

Woman sitting on the edge of the Venice lagoon with blue gondolas during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

10-Day Italy Itinerary Map

If you are a visual person, don’t worry! I have included my 10-day Italy itinerary in a map version below.

You can see exactly where you will be going during your trip! Feel free to bookmark or screenshot during your planning stages!

All places recommended on this Italy example itinerary are very easy to find by simply plugging the name into your GPS! You can even download the maps offline if you use Google Maps!

Google Maps screenshot of Italy showing the itinerary route.

Stop 1: Spend Time Exploring Rome

Your ultimate Italy vacation will begin in the Eternal City of Rome! When most people think of Italy, their minds immediately wander to Rome and it is easy to see why!

With so much history, beautiful fountains and architecture, delicious food, and world-class museums, you cannot miss out on Rome!

Things To Do In Rome

Throw a coin in the fontana di trevi.

Rome’s Trevi Fountain is one of her most famous landmarks! It was completed in 1762.

Stop here and throw a coin into the fountain. This means one day you will return to Rome!

If you are looking to visit the Fontana di Trevi without other tourists, go early in the morning or late at night!

Explore The Coliseum

The Coliseum will be one of the most memorable things to do during your best trip to Italy! This is a place you have heard about in history books and now it is your turn to explore it all on your own!

I highly recommend booking a Coliseum tour to get the most out of the experience. During the summer, they even have sunset tickets so you can visit after hours!

Book Here: Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum Guided Tour

Wander Through The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is not as popular as the Coliseum but it is worth seeing during your Italy vacation. The Roman Forum is just steps away from the Coliseum and is a wonderful place to walk around.

You can just imagine the Romans here many years ago!

Book Here : Rome: Colosseum Arena Floor, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour

Visit Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most famous public squares. It was built in the 15th century and is now filled with cafes, shops, and places to get a delicious bite to eat!

Climb The Spanish Steps

You have probably seen the Spanish Steps in a movie or two! They are another famous landmark in Rome to see during your trip. There are 135 steps so bring your walking shoes!

Take A Cooking Class

For many people, taking a cooking class in Rome is the highlight of their first time to Italy itinerary!

You can work with a traditional Italian cook to learn how to create some fantastic Roman-Italian dishes! This is also a great thing to do if you are visiting Rome in winter .

Book Here: Rome: 3-in-1 Fettuccine, Ravioli and Tiramisu Cooking Class

Visit The Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple that is now a church. Check it out during your visit because it is a famous historical building and another piece of history to admire!

Book Here: Rome: Pantheon Skip-the-Line Entry and Guided Tour

Sunset over Rome featuring the Coliseum and mountains in the distance during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Visiting The Vatican During Your Time In Rome

Wondering why visiting the Vatican wasn’t included in my things to do in Rome? Visiting the Vatican is such an experience that it deserves its own entire section!

I highly recommend spending an entire day exploring Vatican City when in Rome.

There are two main things to do in the Vatican. One is visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica and the other is touring the Vatican Museums.

If you only have time to do one of these things, I recommend visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica.

It is truly the best thing I have ever seen during all my years of travel. It is impressive and architecturally stunning!

At the Vatican Museums, you will find lots of art and history as well as the famous Sistine Chapel. Make sure to buy tickets in advance for the Vatican Museums!

If you don’t have a full day to devote to the Vatican, go early in the morning and make it a half-day!

Book Here: Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket

View of the Vatican from atop Saint Peter's Basilica.

Where To Stay In Rome

I love staying near Vatican City while in Rome. This way, you can walk to Vatican Square at night when it is all lit up.

I highly recommend taking a look at my detailed guide on Exactly Where To Stay In Rome !

As a major city, there are a ton of great places to stay in Rome!

Near Vatican: Relais Piazza Signoria . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Roma Central Guest House . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: The Westin Excelsior Rome . Check Rates: Booking.com

How Long To Spend In Rome

I recommend spending 2 days in Rome . Feel free to modify this! I recommend 3 days at the most especially if you dedicate one full day to Vatican City.

If for whatever reason, you feel like you have seen enough of Rome in a short period of time, there are plenty of day trips from Rome that you can discover!

Dusk over the ruins of the Roman Forum during 10 days in Italy.

Stop 2: Visit Florence And Tuscany

After exploring Rome, your Italy trip itinerary will continue in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and the jewel of Tuscany!

I personally loved Florence more than Rome because it is a bit more laid back. It is very easy to take the train from Rome to Florence, and you will arrive in this beautiful city in a flash!

Florence is an extremely walkable city so there is no need to rely on public transport unless you want to head out of town to explore other villages.

Even if you only have one day in Florence , you can still see many things!

For the best option, take the high-speed train from Roma Termini station to Firenze S M Novella in Florence. This will take 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Book your train here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en

Golden hour over the rooftops of Florence featuring the Duomo church during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Things To Do In Florence

Explore boboli gardens.

Boboli Gardens is a 16th-century garden overlooking the city of Florence! They are up a steep hill so if you are walking, come prepared with some sturdy shoes!

Boboli Gardens cover quite a large expanse and are full of Italian sculptures, beautiful plants, and flowers.

Book Here: Boboli Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

Visit The Duomo

When visiting Florence, it is hard to miss the stunning Duomo. This Catholic Church soars over Florence and is the centerpiece of the whole town.

There is a dress code for entering the Duomo and ladies and men must cover their knees and shoulders. Complete silence is necessary when visiting the Duomo in Florence.

Book Here: Florence: Duomo Cathedral Guided Tour

Walk Across The Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is a picture-perfect bridge in Florence and the perfect place to catch the sunset with a cone of gelato.

If you are spending your Tuscany honeymoon in Florence, this is a super romantic thing to do.

Make sure to bring your camera! It is one of the top things to do in Florence and shouldn’t be missed!

See David At Galleria dell’Accademia

Looking to see Michaelangelo’s greatest works? Check out the Galleria dell’Accademia! If you want to visit the famous David statue, this is the place to see him with your own eyes!

The Galleria dell’Accademia gets very busy so if you don’t want to waste time, book a timed entrance ticket before you arrive or book a guided tour.

Book Here: Florence: Timed Entrance Ticket For Michaelangelo’s David

Marvel At Renaissance Artwork At Palazzo Pitti

Palazzo Pitti is Florence’s biggest art museum! It is full of stunning Renaissance works of art. If you are an art lover like I am, this is a must-see in Italy stop.

There are so many beautiful works of art to discover!

Book Here: Florence: Entrance Ticket to Pitti Palace

Sculpture of hands holding a small tree in Boboli Gardens in Florence.

Where To Stay In Florence

Florence is much smaller than Rome so if you are staying in the city center there really are no bad places to stay! I have an entire post on Where To Stay In Tuscany , which includes a portion about Florence too!

I also have a guide to Where to Stay in Florence specifically. Consider staying in one of the cute boutique hotels in Florence !

Hotels in Florence range from affordable to luxury options. You can get a really nice hotel in the city center for a very reasonable price. This is why Florence is one of my favorite places to stay in Italy!

If you get a little bit outside of the city, you can even find many villas in Tuscany for a very affordable rate.

Affordable: Hotel Bavaria. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Globus Urban Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: Hotel Garibaldi Blu . Check Rates: Booking.com

How Long To Spend In Florence

I recommend spending between one to two days in Florence. You can easily do everything in Florence in a day if you arrive early and stay out late in the event you want to spend more time elsewhere.

If you want to spend more time in Florence, 2 days is the perfect amount of time to explore all that this city has to offer without feeling totally rushed.

For an extra day, you can take a day trip from Florence to Pisa or one of the other towns nearby.

Colorful Ponte Vecchio in Florence during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Stop 3: Check Venice Off Your Italy Bucket List

Venice is the capital of Italy’s Vento region and is made up of over 100 tiny islands!

Venice is known as one of the most romantic cities in the world and when you visit, you will see why.

Luckily, the Floating City is just an easy train from Florence.

Here is a post I wrote on Exactly How To Get From Florence To Venice which explains all of your transport options!

The best route to go from Florence is to get on your train at Santa Maria Novela station in Florence and head to Venezia Santa Lucia. If in Venice. This train trip takes a little over 2 hours and is a nice, easy ride.

Book in advance here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en

woman in red dress sitting on dock in Venice with gondola on a canal.

Things To Do In Venice

Explore the famed piazza san marco.

Piazza San Marco, also known as Saint Mark’s Square, is the most popular square in Venice. This iconic square was built in the 12th century and the centerpiece is Saint Mark’s Basilica which you can also tour.

Make sure to pack approp riately for Italy as you will be doing a lot of walking on this itinerary!

Book Here: Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide

Climb The Companile di San Marco Bell Tower

The Campanile di San Marco is the bell tower that stands tall over Saint Mark’s Square. You have seen it in many photos, and a replica is even at Walt Disney World!

Climb the Campanile di San Marco for one of the best views in all of Venice! This is a wonderful spot for photography during your 10 days in Italy.

Book Here: Classical Venice: 1.5-Hour Walking Tour

Go On A Gondola Ride

What trip to Venice is complete without going on a gondola ride? This is one of the most popular things to do in Venice ! I highly recommend splurging on this!

These are some of the best tours of Italy, providing a unique view of Venice that you wouldn’t get walking the streets or from other boat tours! The Venetian Canals are a world of their own!

Book Here: Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Live Commentary

Marvel At Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace is an ornate Gothic place right on the canals of Venice! It is a museum and showroom and one of the most impressive palaces you will see during your trip!

If you are visiting Venice in winter , indoor experiences such as this one are perfect to keep you warm and dry.

Doge’s Palace holds lacework, paintings, sculptures, and more. It is a real treat for architecture lovers!

Book Here: Venice: Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket

Take A Tour Of The Venetian Islands

Another great way to see Venice is to get out of the canals and explore the Venetian lagoon! You will visit the small towns of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, depending on what tour you take.

The best way to see these islands and the lagoon is to take a guided tour. You will also learn lots of great information about Venice!

Book Here: Venice: Burano, Torcello & Murano Boat Tour w/Glassblowing

Walk Over The Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge in Venice is the most iconic bridge you will see! While walking across this 16th-century, stone footbridge is an experience, it is even better to stand back and marvel at its beauty from afar!

If you are a photographer , the Rialto Bridge in Venice will be a real treat when visiting Italy in 10 days!

Cute couple kissing at Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy. She is wearing a red dress and he is wearing a blue top.

Where To Stay In Venice

When staying in Venice, I highly recommend staying in the city center! There are a variety of hotel and Airbnb options in Venice ranging in price.

Please don’t forget to check out my VERY detailed guide on Exactly Where To Stay In Venice, Italy! This includes beautiful boutique hotels in Venice .

I recommend staying near Saint Mark’s Basilica or the Rialto Bridge. No matter where you decide to stay, you are in Venice and that is something to celebrate!

City Center: Hotel Casanova . Check Rates: Booking.com

4-Star: Royal San Marco Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

How Long To Stay In Venice

When choosing how long to stay in Venice, take into account that the city can be seen relatively quickly. I recommend spending 1-2 days in Venice. I have both a one-day Itinerary and a 2-day itinerary for Venice!

If Venice is your dream city or you want to celebrate a special occasion there, then spend a little bit longer and cut down on another location.

Woman in a red dress and sun hat stands looking at the Bridge of Sighs in Venice during 10 days in Italy.

Stop 4: Explore The Italian Alps And Dolomites In Bolzano

The Italian Alps/Dolomites are rarely included on Italy travel itineraries, and I always wonder why!

The Dolomites are some of the most spectacular and impressive mountains in the whole world, and they are so easy to get to from other parts of Italy!

The Dolomites are also home to some of the prettiest lakes and cutest towns in Italy!

Bolzano is known as the Gateway to the Dolomites and should certainly be a stop on your Italy trip. Bolzano is much less touristy than Rome, Florence, or Venice which is why I included it.

You will love leaving the hustle and bustle of the city for the mountains!

I have a full Northern Italy itinerary if you are interested in exploring this region in more detail. I highly suggest it as it is one of the most beautiful spots in Italy!

You can take the train from Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia in Florence to Bolzano Bolzen station in Bolzano. The journey takes between 3:15 minutes to 3:45 minutes depending on which train you book. As always, book these tickets well in advance of your ten-day trip to Italy!

Book train tickets here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en

Woman in blue skirt standing in a field with the Dolomites in the background.

Things To Do In Bolzano/The Dolomites:

Take a cable car up the mountainside.

Take in the beautiful Alpine countryside and mountains by taking a cable car ride high above Bolzano! The Renon Cable Car starts from Bolzano and heads up a nearby mountain.

The cable car takes 11 minutes to reach the top, and you are treated to stunning and memorable views of the surrounding countryside!

The Italian Alps will be so different than anything else you see on your best trip to Italy and a cable car ride is a wonderful introduction!

Explore Puez-Geisler Nature Park

Looking for something different than the rest of your visit? Rent a car in Bolzano and escape the city with a 1 hour and 35-minute drive up to the Puez-Geisler Nature Park.

This nature park is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes Italy has to offer!

The Dolomites are truly at their best here! I highly recommend visiting during your Italy vacation! This is easily one of the most memorable things to do in Italy.

Book Here: Bolzano: Great Dolomites Road Private Day Trip by Car

Visit The Duomo di Bolzano

Located in the heart of Bolzano, the Duomo di Bolzano is a 4th-century church located on a lovely little square! The Duomo di Bolzano is an architectural masterpiece and has a stunning tiled roof.

The white and green tiles on the roof are striking and interesting compared to other churches you will find in Italy and Europe. The inside is just as lovely as the outside with columns and a stunning main altar.

Pretend You Are Royalty At Castel Roncolo

Castel Roncolo is an impressive castle fortress located just a bit outside of Bolzano! If you love castles and mountain scenes, make sure this stop goes during your 10 days in Italy!

Regular buses travel to the castle from Piazza Walther in Bolzano. The Castle is a sight to behold and the mountain vistas don’t disappoint!

Go On A Beautiful Nature Walk

The Guntschna Walk is one of the most well-known nature walks in Bolzano. It is an easy and enjoyable way to explore nature without hiking long distances.

The walk starts near the Griest church and the walking trail winds up the side of the mountain. Along the way, you will come across lovely flowers and trees. You will see beautiful views of Bolzano and the surrounding countryside.

This is the perfect way to cap off a long day of exploring Northern Italy during vacation!

Aerial view of Castel Roncolo near Bolzano in the Dolomites with green trees surrounding it

Where To Stay In Bolzano:

I recommend staying in the city center of Bolzano. This is a much smaller town than the first three you visited during your Italian itinerary, but there are still plenty of options for you to stay!

There are four-star hotels, boutique hotels, and affordable inns, depending on your budget for lodging when visiting Italy in 10 days.

Affordable: Residence Fink. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Gardenhotel Premstaller . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: Parkhotel Laurin . Check Rates: Booking.com

How Long To Spend In Bolzano

It is hard to describe how unique and stunning Bolzano and the Italian Dolomites are! I highly recommend spending a minimum of two full days in Bolzano and the Italian Alps.

One day just isn’t enough to see the nature park and explore the city.

If you rent a car, which I highly suggest, you should spend one day exploring Bolzano and the castles and then one day visiting the nature park since the drive is a bit long.

Either way, I know you are going to love seeing the Dolomites! Add this region to any detailed itineraries for Italy!

Aerial view of historic Duomo di Bolzano in a city with mountains in the distance.

Stop 5: Visit the Mediterranean Coast at Genoa, Portofino, and Cinque Terre

The next part of your 10 days in Italy will take you from the Alps to the calming waters of the Mediterranean coast!

This will be the longest train or bus journey of your Italy trip, but it is worth it to see both of these amazing and impressive stops! You will visit the Mediterranian Coast in the Liguria region.

This is a great alternative to the popular Amalfi Coast which is farther south.

The capital is Genoa, and this is where you will arrive and possibly stay if you should choose, but you will be also visiting the nearby Portofino and Cinque Terre villages.

The Ligurian Coast is relaxing and rejuvenating and the perfect way to continue to travel Italy in 10 days!

To get to Genoa from Bolzano, you will take between 2-3 trains or busses. The journey takes about 5 hours but you get a great tour of the Italian countryside. You will pick up your train or bus at Bolzano Bolzen station and will take it [with a few transfers in between] to the Genova Piazza Principle Station in Genoa.

Get your train tickets here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en

Rugged Ligurian Coast with a train headed between Cinque Terre villages.

Visiting Genoa And Top Things To Do

Genoa is where your train from Bolzano will arrive and is your gateway to visiting the Ligurian Coast on your 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Genoa is also where you will find the widest variety and most affordable hotel and lodging options.

The Genoa Aquarium

The Aquarium of Genoa is stunning and totally worth the trip. If you are looking to do something a little different or if the weather is hot or rainy, the Genoa Aquarium is a wonderful thing to include on your itinerary!

Book Here: Genoa: Aquarium of Genoa Timeslot Entry Ticket

Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour

Taking a hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to see what Genoa has to offer! Tickets are valid for 48 hours so you can easily explore Genoa at your own pace with all the transportation included in your price!

Book Here: Genoa: Hop-on Hop-off Tour Ticket

Historical Center Walking Tour

Genoa’s historic downtown city center is wonderful to explore and steeped in history! From lovely squares to hidden alleyways, taking a walking tour of Genoa will give you a local look at this wonderful coastal city!

Book Here: Genoa: 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Historical Center

Looking up at the historic San Lorenzo Cathedral in Genoa, Italy.

Visiting Portofino And Top Things To Do

Portofino is one of the best places to visit in Italy, and it is quite near Genoa!

You have two options to get to Portofino, either renting a car or Vespa, or taking the train/bus. Both are easy options.

I recommend making it a day stop as it is a playground for the rich and famous and prices are quite high for hotels!

Explore Castello Brown

Castello Brown is a house museum located high above the harbor at Portofino. It has been in use since the 15th century and provides sweeping views of the landscape below.

You can easily see how Castello Brown would have been used in days past to protect Portofino from invaders!

Go Snorkeling Or Diving

The Ligurian Coast is a haven for snorkeling and diving! The clear water makes Portofino the perfect place to cool off while exploring Italy in 10 days!

There are a variety of snorkeling and diving trips you can take depending on your comfort level! Make sure to check that the tours are still running depending on what time of year you visit!

Book Here: 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino

Visit San Fruttuoso Abbey

San Fruttuoso Abbey is a 10th-century Roman Catholic abbey in Portofino. It is located tucked away in a cove and is a wonderful history museum and location to tour.

If you love architecture, this is the perfect place for you!

Book Here: Camogli: San Fruttuoso Abbey Entry Ticket

Eat Gelato On The Streets Of Portofino

Portofino is quite a small town and the shopping streets are all very close together.

While you are in Portofino, make sure to slow down and take in the Italian Riviera. Have a bite to eat or grab a gelato while walking around and marveling at all the luxury yachts moored in the harbor!

Yachts and small boats in a harbor in Portofino, Italy, with colorful buildings in the background.

Visiting Cinque Terre And Top Things To Do

Cinque Terre is actually a collection of five towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

You can visit all five during your Italy travel itinerary for 10 days, or you can choose your top picks and save the rest for next time.

If you want to explore all of the towns, I recommend budgeting an entire day to do so!

You can choose to drive or take the train if you want to add Cinque Terre to your Italy itinerary. If you choose to take the train from Genoa, take a local train toward La Spezia and get off at your desired Cinque Terre destination.

Alternatively, you can take an express train directly to La Spezia and a local train back to your Cinque Terre town of choice.

Hike The Monterosso Footpath

The Monterosso footpath connects the towns of Monterosso and Vernazza with stunning views of the towns!

This hike is a bit challenging as you are going up the coastal cliffs so budget at least 1-2 hours to complete it.

The views are worth the effort, but bring plenty of water, especially if you visit during the summer.

This is one of the top things to do in Cinque Terre and should not be missed!

Explore The Church of San Francesco

The Church of San Francesco overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and provides breathtaking views of the stunning blue water below!

The church was built in the 17th century and is a wonderful stop when touring Cinque Terre.

Visit Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre

This National Park is one of the smallest in Italy at only 15 square miles but one of the most popular and most beautiful!

Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre is one of the most heavily inhabited national parks in Italy and it is easy to see why!

A one-day pass costs only a few euros per person. Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take a Boat Tour Of Cinque Terre

If you are short on time during your trip, consider taking a boat tour of the Cinque Terre villages.

This will allow you to see all of the towns with ease and speed. You won’t miss a thing! You can also stop off at some of the Cinque Terre beaches to rest and relax.

A boat tour is an easy and affordable way to add Cinque Terre to your itinerary. You can see everything by water!

Book Here: From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Speedboat Tour

Woman in red dress and sun hat stands on a rugged rock looking across the water to a colorful village in Cinque Terre.

Where To Stay On The Ligurian Coast

Depending on the amount of time you allot to the Ligurian Coast, I recommend staying in Genoa, the nearby town of Bogliasco, or one of the Cinque Terre villages.

I even put this guide together of the Best Places To Stay In Cinque Terre !

If you are short on time, I recommend making Genoa your home base since it is close to the main train up to Milan.

If you have more time to spend in the Italian Riviera, you can consider staying in the Cinque Terre village of your choice. There are plenty of luxury hotels in Cinque Terre !

I personally loved staying at a local Italian home in Bogliasco as it was quiet and relaxing with coastal views!

Affordable: B&B Hotel Genova . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: The First – Manarola 5 Terre . Check rates: Booking.com

Upscale: Bristol Palace Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Woman in a floral dress overlooking a color town and harbor in Cinque Terre.

How Long To Spend On The Ligurian Coast

I recommend spending 2 days on the Ligurian Coast during your Italy itinerary. If you can swing it and change up your itinerary elsewhere, you may even choose to spend three wonderful days along the coast!

If you made changes elsewhere but still don’t want to sacrifice seeing the Mediterranean Coast, this part of your vacation can be done in 1 day and 1 night if you must.

I highly recommend staying the night in Genoa if you only have one night and taking the train and a Cinque Terre boat tour to save time.

Aerial view of Portofino on the Ligurian Coast with boats and colorful houses.

Stop 6: End Your 10 Days In Italy Itinerary By Flying Out Of Milan

End your 10 days in Italy itinerary by flying out of Milan. This city is home to a large international airport and many affordable flight options fly from here.

Beginning your trip in Rome and ending it in Milan is perfect, especially if you want to spend the majority of your Italy itinerary exploring!

If you must fly roundtrip from Rome, you can shorten the itinerary a bit to leave room for flying back to Rome from the Milan airport which should be a quick puddle jump.

Overall, I do recommend purchasing two one-way flights to give you the maximum amount of time to explore the country!

Even if you only have one day in Milan or a half-day, there is plenty to see and do to wrap up your trip!

Book Here: Milan: Direct Transfer between Malpensa Airport and Center

Getting to Milan from Genoa is quite easy! Take the train from Genova Piazza Principe to the Milano Central Rail Station. The train journey should take about 1 hour and 40 minutes and is quite easy to navigate.

Book tickets in advance here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en

Vivid sunset over the Milan Cathedral and square.

Things To Do In Milan

Take in the breathtaking milan cathedral.

The Milan Cathedral is an architectural wonder and a breathtaking masterpiece!

It is so much bigger in real life than it looks in photos. Interestingly, it took nearly six centuries to complete. Construction began in 1386 and finished in 1965!

Book Here: Milan Cathedral And Rooftop Ticket

Go Shopping At Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest shopping mall and a hallmark thing to do!

The mall is housed in a 19th-century, glass-covered arcade and is quite the sight to behold! If you haven’t had time to do much shopping during your vacation, now is the time to take advantage!

Visit Sforza Castle In Milan

Sforza Castle is a 15th-century castle located right in the city. It is also home to various artistic works, including those from Leonardo Da Vinci!

If you are looking to add another museum and art gallery to your Italy itinerary, make sure to put Sforza Castle on your list of things to do in Milan.

Book Here: Milan: Sforza Castle Entry Ticket with Digital Audioguide

Explore The City On A Bus Tour

If you are short on time, a hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a perfect way to quickly see the city! Even if you aren’t into doing super touristy things, you will still enjoy this bus tour.

It will provide insider information about some of the most famous sites, and you can easily be able to get off the bus should you want to explore more! This is perfect if you only have one day to tour Milan.

Book Here: Milan: 24, 48, or 72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket

Long exposure dusk photo of a fountain in front of the Sforza Castle during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Where To Stay In Milan

If you are catching your flight out of Milan Airport the next day, I highly recommend spending your last night in Italy somewhere close to the airport.

This will allow you to explore on the last day of your 10-day Italy itinerary without worrying about waking up early and taking a long transfer taxi or bus to the airport to catch your flight the next day.

If you want to spend longer or you want to peek into my exact suggestions, check out my post on where to stay in Milan to help you decide!

There are plenty of great boutique hotels in Milan too!

Mid-Range: Sheraton Milan Airport Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Affordable: First Hotel Malpensa. Check Rates: Booking.com

How Long To Spend In Milan

I recommend spending one day in Milan at the most. Compared to other Italian cities on this itinerary, the city can be done very quickly or maybe not at all.

If you are looking for how to save time and budget days for elsewhere in this 10-day itinerary for Italy, I recommend spending as little time as possible in Milan!

Use this city as your gateway to the airport, stop off and see a thing or two, and then be on your way home!

If you do have an extra day, you can enjoy a day trip to Lake Como.

Yellow, historic tram in Milan near an arch during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Begin Your Italy Itinerary By Flying Into Rome

For this 10-day in Italy itinerary, you are going to be flying into Rome. This is one of Italy’s major airports so flights come to Rome from all around the world.

You will not be flying out of Rome at the end of your Italy vacation, but this will most likely save you money by booking two one-way flights out of Italy’s biggest airports!

I recommend checking out Skyscanner to find the best and most affordable flights into Italy. Use this tool to discover the best flights for your trip because you can easily compare rates.

I also suggest booking your trip on a travel credit card so you can earn points toward future travel! These are the travel credit cards I personally use!

Rome has two airports you may fly into depending on where you are coming from.

Fiumicino Airport is the larger international airport so if you are coming from the Americas or Asia, you will be flying into this airport.

Ciampino Airport is used by smaller budget airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet. You will fly into this airport if you are flying in from other parts of Europe.

The most affordable way to travel between Fiumicino Airport and Rome is by a shuttle bus that stops at both Termini Station and Piazza Cavour. This shuttle takes around an hour.

There are also trains and taxi services that run into Rome as well.

Book Here: Rome: Shuttle Bus Transfer to or from Fiumicino Airport

Book Here: Rome: Shuttle Bus Transfer to or from Ciampino Airport

Pink sunset over the Spanish Steps and a fountain in Rome during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Getting Around Italy In 10 Days

There are plenty of ways to get around Italy when you travel throughout this amazing country!

You can take public transportation during your entire trip and use some of the wonderful high-speed trains Italy has to offer. I have gone this route before. It is very easy, and Italy’s train system is wonderful.

Getting around Italy by train is my recommended course of action for this itinerary for Italy in 10 days but you choose what is best for you!

You can also choose to rent a car or Vespa if you want to drive. I have also rented a car in Italy but it will be a more expensive route than taking the train in Italy.

Also, not dropping the car off at the same place you picked it up will include an added cost. If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind that tolls in Italy can be pricey and parking is often hard to find in larger cities.

I have driven in Italy and it is a great way to see the country if you hate waiting on trains and buses. You can easily make this an Italy road trip !

Another great way to travel around Italy is to hire a private driver to take you everywhere on your Italian itinerary if it works with your financial position.

Read More: Pros And Cons Of Renting A Car In Italy

Aerial image of a red train cutting through farmland near mountains in Italy.

First Time In Italy Travel Tips

Getting a sim card in italy.

If you don’t want to break the bank with international cell phone coverage, I HIGHLY recommend investing in a local SIM card. This is a top tip when visiting Italy for the first time!

This will give you access to local Italian cell phone networks, and you will be able to use your phone just like a local!

I love using SIM cards from local countries as they provide a fast, easy, and affordable network connection. When buying a SIM card, you can usually purchase one in the airport or any downtown metro area.

The best network for SIM cards in Italy is TIM . Plans such as Verizon don’t really exist in Italy which will cause your experience to be frustrating and slow.

Plans such as TIM are the main network used in the country so you can be sure to have an enjoyable and affordable experience.

Woman in blue skirt overlooking a winding road in Tuscany at golden hour during 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Do I Have To Drive In Italy?

No, you do NOT have to drive in Italy to experience this itinerary. This entire itinerary can be done by using public transportation.

The public transportation in Italy is fantastic and affordable.

Trains run between all the popular destinations on this list. The moment you arrive in town, there is more public transportation to take you throughout the city.

That being said, renting a car will provide you with more freedom. If a tour is more your style then some great tours in Italy will take you around with ease.

I have traveled to Italy both by renting a car AND by only relying on public transportation. The choice is truly yours.

Driving in Italian cities can be a bit stressful if it is busy or during rush hour, but otherwise, the experience is quite nice!

Small black car in a street with stone buildings in Italy.

Understanding The Italian Public Transit System

If you want to do this trip with just public transportation, then this section is for you! Even if you rent a car in Italy, you will still need to rely on public transport in Italy.

I receive many questions about the public transit system in Italy. You should know it is wonderful! If you are from the USA, it is very easy to understand and very affordable!

All of the major cities and most of the small towns and villages are connected by trains. Once you arrive anywhere by train, there is a system of buses or other public transport to take you around town.

You will not show up at a train station and then be left with no option to connect you to your hotel or the city center.

Train, buses, trams, ferries. They are all easy, affordable, and enjoyable experiences. Please do not worry about using public transportation when planning your best Italian itinerary for 10 days.

Two red trains at a covered train station in Italy.

Best Time To Visit Italy

There is really no wrong time to plan an Italian vacation! The best time to visit Italy depends on what you want from your trip and when you can travel.

Prices, crowds, activities, weather, and more all vary by month.

I will give you a quick breakdown by season so you know what to expect when you visit. Make sure to check out my article for a complete guide to when to visit Italy.

Spring in Italy is shoulder season with fewer crowds and lower prices. The weather is warm and there are plenty of flowers but expect some rainy days.

Summer is the busiest time in Italy especially in August when Italians take their vacation. The weather is sunny and hot, perfect for a beach day. This is the most expensive time to visit.

Fall is also shoulder season with lower prices. Enjoy pretty foliage and nice weather with fewer crowds.

Winter is the off-season and overall cheapest time to visit Italy. You will love celebrating Christmas and New Year as well as Carnival in Venice. The weather is cold and can be snowy. You will have a blast skiing in scenic locations.

Aerial view of golden hour over the rolling green hills of Tuscany with a villa.

Hopefully, you have learned how to do Italy in 10 days!

My Italian itinerary ideas will help you plan your trip any time of year. Whether this is your first-time visit to Italy or you are a seasoned traveler, you are ready to get started planning your trip!

When planning your trip remember that you can budget the days of the vacation any way you like, but I do provide my recommended suggestions!

Want to stay longer in Italy? I also have a 2 weeks in Italy itinerary to check out!

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Four photos of Italy with the words "The Ultimate 10 day Italy itinerary"

Reader Interactions

July 26, 2018 at 9:41 pm

All your suggestions sound wonderful. I’m planning a trip there soon, I’ll use your itinerary body. Thanks.

August 3, 2018 at 8:39 pm

Wow I love this! There’s just so much to see in Italy that it’s honestly so hard to see it in ten days. I was hoping there would also be a Sorrento and Amalfi section, but I don’t know what you could take out to make it fit!

August 3, 2018 at 10:18 pm

I loved Italy when I went to Rome! I hope to explore more areas like you did. Thanks for all the tips!

August 4, 2018 at 7:55 am

I love italy and have been to most of these places – this is the perfect itinerary for someone that wants to see all the highlights!

August 4, 2018 at 11:10 am

First of all, I love how comprehensive this post is! I think I’ve added a hundred things to my Italy bucket list – Doge’s Palace being number one (how have I never heard of this place before?). I was also a little worried that ten days wasn’t enough time to see Italy but this sounds like such a wonderful itinerary that has just the right amount of things to do and isn’t too jam packed.

September 27, 2018 at 10:02 pm

Is there 1 company who can book everything?

October 4, 2018 at 8:45 am

Thank you for the great tips.. Looking forward to my trip to Italy. Am planning a trip end Nov – beginning Dec. If anyone’s interested in joining, would love to explore the place together!

February 28, 2019 at 5:31 pm

I see you did not add Naples to the Initially

August 12, 2019 at 1:42 pm

Thank you for this wonderful itinerary. Best I’ve seen because it includes the Dolomites. We plan on visiting Italy the spring of 2020.

July 24, 2024 at 10:54 pm

Wow, this has been the most helpful I’ve read about an Italy trip! Thank you for taking the time to put it all together!

July 25, 2024 at 4:08 pm

Of course!!! Enjoy!!!

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10 Days in Italy – Itinerary for the Best Places to Visit in Italy

Italy, a timeless masterpiece where every cobblestone whispers tales of antiquity. From the majestic Colosseum in Rome to the serene canals of Venice, Italy is a symphony of art, history, and gastronomy. Indulge in the opulent Renaissance architecture of Florence, explore the vineyard-dotted landscapes of Tuscany, or bask in the azure waters of the Amalfi Coast. Savor the rich flavors of authentic pasta, pizza, and gelato while sipping on fine wines in Tuscany. Whether you seek cultural immersion, culinary delights, or breathtaking landscapes, Italy promises an unforgettable journey through its unparalleled beauty and charm.

Italy: A perfect 10-day Itinerary

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Italy with our immersive 10-day travel itinerary. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the stunning coastlines of the Amalfi Coast, experience the rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights that Italy has to offer.

Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Kickstart your Italian adventure in the vibrant city of Rome , where ancient history meets modern charm. After settling into your accommodation, begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Colosseum , an ancient amphitheater that once hosted thrilling gladiatorial contests. Marvel at the engineering marvel of the Pantheon , an ancient temple dedicated to the Roman gods, and wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum , the political and social center of ancient Rome. As the sun sets, make your way to the lively Piazza Navona , where street performers entertain crowds against the backdrop of stunning Baroque architecture. For dinner, indulge in classic Roman dishes such as cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper) or carciofi alla romana (Roman-style artichokes) at a traditional trattoria.

Day 2: Vatican City and Beyond

Delve into the heart of Catholicism with a visit to Vatican City, the spiritual center of the Catholic Church. Explore the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica , the largest church in the world, and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city. Discover the Vatican Museums, home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries of history, including the famous Sistine Chapel adorned with Michelangelo’s masterpiece frescoes.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Vatican Gardens, a lush oasis in the heart of the bustling city. For lunch, savor freshly made pizza al taglio (Roman-style pizza by the slice) from a local bakery, followed by gelato from one of Rome’s beloved gelaterias. Later in the day, make sure to visit the iconic Spanish Steps and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City.

Day 3: Florence: Renaissance Splendor

Depart Rome for the enchanting city of Florence , the birthplace of the Renaissance and a treasure trove of art and culture. Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Uffizi Gallery , home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Next, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Florence Cathedral , with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi, and explore the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge lined with jewelry shops.

For a delightful snack, make sure to stop by All’Antico Vinaio , a famous sandwich shop in Florence, and enjoy their delicious panini filled with fresh ingredients. Take time to wander through the charming streets of the Oltrarno district , known for its artisan workshops and traditional craftsmanship. In the evening, indulge in hearty Florentine specialties such as bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine-style steak) or ribollita (Tuscan bean soup) at a cozy trattoria.

Day 4: Tuscan Countryside Escape

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to the picturesque Tuscan countryside. Journey through rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves to the medieval town of San Gimignano , known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Continue your journey to the historic town of Pisa , famous for its iconic Leaning Tower and stunning Piazza dei Miracoli . Marvel at the architectural marvels of the Cathedral and Baptistry before enjoying a leisurely lunch featuring Tuscan specialties such as pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup) or ribollita . Be sure to sample local wines, including Chianti and Vernaccia di San Gimignano , at a nearby winery.

Day 5: Venice: City of Canals

Travel north to the magical city of Venice , a labyrinth of canals, bridges, and historic palaces. Begin your exploration with a leisurely gondola ride along the iconic Grand Canal , passing beneath elegant bridges and past ornate palazzos. Discover the treasures of St. Mark’s Square , including the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica with its intricate mosaics and the imposing Doge’s Palace . Take time to explore the charming streets of the city’s historic center, getting lost in its maze of narrow alleys and hidden squares. For dinner, indulge in Venetian specialties such as sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) at a traditional osteria overlooking the canal.

Day 6: Murano, Burano, and Beyond

Venture beyond Venice to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano , each known for its unique charms and artisan traditions. Begin your day with a visit to Murano, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking. Witness skilled artisans at work in local glass factories, creating exquisite works of art using ancient techniques passed down through generations. Next, journey to the colorful island of Burano, famous for its vibrant houses painted in cheerful hues.

Explore the charming streets lined with lace shops and enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring fresh seafood and local specialties such as risotto di gò (risotto with goby fish) or spaghetti al nero di seppia (spaghetti with squid ink). Be sure to save room for Burano’s famous bussolà cookies , a traditional treat made with butter and eggs.

Day 8: Amalfi Coast: Coastal Splendor

Travel south to the picturesque Amalfi Coast , a stunning stretch of coastline dotted with colorful villages and dramatic cliffs. Begin your day in the charming town of Positano , with its pastel-colored houses cascading down to the sea. Stroll along the narrow streets lined with boutique shops and artisan workshops, pausing to admire panoramic views of the coastline below.

Continue your journey along the scenic coastal road to the town of Amalfi , once a powerful maritime republic. Explore the historic center, home to the magnificent Cathedral of St. Andrew and the picturesque Piazza del Duomo . For dinner, dine on fresh seafood caught that day, such as grilled fish or seafood pasta , at a seaside restaurant overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Day 9: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Delve into the ancient past with a visit to the archaeological site of Pompeii , frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Embark on a guided tour of the remarkably preserved ruins, wandering through the ancient streets lined with crumbling villas, bathhouses, and temples. Marvel at the exquisite frescoes and mosaics that adorn the walls of the city’s ancient buildings, offering a glimpse into daily life in the Roman Empire.

Conclude your visit with a climb to the summit of Mount Vesuvius , where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and contemplate the power of nature. For lunch, enjoy a picnic with local specialties such as caprese salad (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) and sfogliatella (a traditional Neapolitan pastry) while taking in the stunning views.

Day 10: Naples: Culinary Delights and Cultural Treasures

Conclude your Italian journey in the vibrant city of Naples , a melting pot of culture, history, and culinary delights. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient churches, palaces, and piazzas, including the magnificent Il Duomo . Visit the Naples Archaeological Museum to discover a vast collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including mosaics, sculptures, and household items. Explore the fascinating underground tunnels of Napoli Sotterranea , a labyrinth of passages dating back to Greek and Roman times.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sample authentic Neapolitan pizza at Sorbillo , savoring the delicious flavors of this iconic dish. For dinner, dine on traditional Neapolitan dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or parmigiana di melanzane (eggplant parmesan) at a family-owned trattoria. And before you leave, take a stroll through the grand Piazza del Plebiscito , soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square. Bid farewell to Italy with cherished memories of your unforgettable journey through this enchanting land.

Accommodation in Italy

Accommodation options in Italy cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels in historic palaces to charming bed and breakfasts in centuries-old buildings. Whether you’re looking for a lavish retreat with panoramic views or a cozy guesthouse immersed in local culture, Italy offers diverse choices to suit every traveler’s needs. Additionally, many accommodations boast unique features such as rooftop terraces overlooking iconic landmarks, lush gardens, or proximity to renowned attractions. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance , especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best options and ensure a memorable stay in Italy.

Navona Theatre Hotel , Rome

Vicolo Dei Granari 3, Navona, 00186 Rome

The Navona Theatre is an excellent choice for tourists because it lies at the very center of Rome. The hotel itself is located in a 500-year-old building, which also speaks volumes about the décor you can expect. It is within a walking distance from some of the main Rome attractions and the hotel gives you a serene atmosphere because the rooms are mostly soundproof. You will definitely enjoy your stay here.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Flora , Venice

Calle Larga XXII Marzo, San Marco 2283/A, Venice

Hotel Flora is a traditional, intimate and exclusive hotel set in a 17th-century building, only a 5 minutes’ walk from Piazza San Marco. The hotel features a nice leafy courtyard with a beautiful setting where breakfast is served every morning. All rooms are individually decorated with antique furniture, Murano chandeliers and damask tapestries.

Grand Hotel Minerva, Florence

Piazza Santa Maria Novella 16, Santa Maria Novella, 50123 Florence

Grand Hotel Minerva combines the finest tradition in hospitality with modern features, and it’s set in one of the best locations in Florence – close to the main railway station, a few minutes from all major sights. The hotel features a rooftop bar, swimming pool, gym and a relax area with a large jacuzzi.

Hotel Piazza Bellini , Naples

Via S.M. Di Costantinopoli 101, Naples Historic Center, 80134 Naples, Italy

Located on Piazza Bellini, Hotel Piazza Bellini is perfect for city exploration and sightseeing. Set in a 16th-century building, hotel combines modern design with artistic elements. Uniquely decorated rooms bring extra comfort.

What’s the best time to visit Italy?

The best time to visit Italy largely depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to explore. Generally, the most popular time is during the spring ( April to June ) and fall ( September to October) seasons when the weather is mild, crowds are thinner, and attractions are more accessible. Spring brings blooming flowers, particularly in Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast, while fall offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially in the countryside.

Summer ( July to August ) is peak tourist season with hot weather, crowded attractions, and higher prices, but it’s ideal for beach vacations along the Italian coast. Winter ( November to February ) sees fewer tourists, cooler temperatures, and occasional snow in the northern regions, making it perfect for skiing in the Alps or enjoying cultural attractions in cities like Rome and Florence without the crowds. Ultimately, the best time to visit Italy depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels.

A few facts about Italy

Ancient Rome : Italy was the heart of the Roman Empire, one of the most influential civilizations in history. Rome, its capital, was once the largest city in the world and remains a treasure trove of ancient ruins and landmarks.
Cuisine : Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its diversity and flavors. From pasta and pizza to gelato and espresso, Italian food reflects the country’s rich culinary heritage and regional specialties.
Art and Culture : Italy is home to some of the world’s most famous art and cultural treasures. Renaissance masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper can be found in Italy’s museums and galleries.
Fashion and Design : Italy is a global leader in fashion and design, with cities like Milan considered fashion capitals. Italian designers and brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Armani are celebrated for their craftsmanship and style.
Landmarks : Italy boasts numerous iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the canals of Venice, and the ancient city of Pompeii.
Geography : Italy’s diverse geography ranges from the snow-capped Alps in the north to the sunny Mediterranean coast in the south. It also includes picturesque lakes, rolling hillsides, and fertile vineyards.
Language : Italian is the official language of Italy and is spoken by over 85 million people worldwide. It is known for its musicality and is considered one of the most beautiful languages in the world.

Gastronomy of Italy

Italian gastronomy is a culinary journey rich in flavors, traditions, and regional specialties. Pasta , a staple of Italian cuisine, comes in countless shapes and varieties, paired with an array of savory sauces like marinara , carbonara , and pesto . Pizza , originating from Naples, is celebrated for its thin crust and delicious toppings such as fresh mozzarella , tomatoes , and basil . Italy’s love affair with cheese is evident in dishes like creamy risotto , hearty lasagna , and the famous Caprese salad , featuring buffalo mozzarella and ripe tomatoes . Seafood plays a prominent role in coastal regions, with dishes like seafood risotto , grilled fish, and linguine alle vongole (linguine with clams) showcasing the bounty of the Mediterranean. Indulge in sweet delights like tiramisu , cannoli , and gelato , each offering a taste of Italy’s sweet side. With its emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and simple yet flavorful preparations, Italian gastronomy is a celebration of la dolce vita.

Getting around Italy

Getting around Italy is relatively easy due to its well-developed transportation network. For intercity travel, trains are a popular and efficient option, with high-speed trains connecting major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. Italy’s extensive bus network also provides affordable transportation to smaller towns and rural areas not served by trains. Rental cars offer flexibility, allowing travelers to explore remote regions and scenic countryside at their own pace. However, driving in cities can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. In urban areas, such as Rome and Naples, public transportation systems including buses and metros are convenient for navigating within the city center. For island destinations like Sicily and Sardinia, ferries provide essential connections from the mainland. Overall, whether by train, bus, car, or ferry, traveling around Italy offers the opportunity to experience its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Extra tips for visiting Italy

Learn Basic Italian : While many Italians speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Respect Dress Codes : When visiting religious sites like churches and basilicas, ensure you dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees. It’s also a good idea to dress stylishly when dining out or visiting upscale establishments.
Validate Train Tickets : If traveling by train, remember to validate your ticket before boarding using the machines at the station. Failure to do so could result in a fine.
Stay Hydrated and Sunscreen : Italy can get hot, especially in summer, so stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Try Local Cuisine : Venture beyond the tourist areas to taste authentic Italian cuisine at local trattorias and family-owned restaurants.
Be Aware of Pickpockets : Like in any tourist destination, be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas such as train stations, markets, and tourist attractions.
Respect Cultural Norms : Italians value politeness and respect, so remember to greet people with a smile, say “please” (per favore) and “thank you” (grazie), and avoid raising your voice in public places.
Visit Off-Peak Hours : To avoid crowds, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Explore Beyond the Main Cities : While Rome, Florence, and Venice are must-see destinations, consider exploring smaller towns and villages to experience the authentic charm of Italian life.
Embrace the Dolce Vita : Relax, savor every moment, and embrace the Italian way of life—slow down, enjoy good food, wine, and conversation, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Travel ideas for Italy

Created by local experts

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

Florence: A Trip Back In Time

Florence. A mere mention of the name conjures up grand images of Renaissance romance, awe-inspiring art and astonishing architecture. Come and see for yourself.

Eternal Rome for the Weekend

Welcome to this whirlwind tour of Rome, also known as the Eternal City. Rome is one of the most photogenic cities on earth, so make sure you pack your camera.

Wine and food in Tuscany

Stay at a beautiful hotel in San Gimignano, a medieval hill town half way between Florence and Siena. Tuscany is known for its wines and food and that's what you'll be exploring on this itinerary - several wine and food pairings await. All hand-picked by your local travel specialist.

See our 10 days in Italy itineraries below, or get inspired by duration: 5 days - 7-days - 14 days - North Italy - South Italy

Itinerary #1: Cuisine, culture and captivating countryside in Piedmont

Located in northwest Italy, surrounded by the French and Swiss Alps, Piedmont is a wealthy region known for its culinary delights. This 10-day itinerary combines cuisine, culture, and nature, encompassing the regional capital, Turin , and the countryside around Alba .

Fly to Milan and transfer to Turin, your base for the first five days . Explore the elegant city known for its Baroque avenues, palaces, and art. Day three offers a guided e-bike tour, while day four is dedicated to the Egyptian Museum and Royal Palace, showcasing remarkable artifacts and opulent royal history.

On day five , transfer to Alba in the Langhe area. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming town with its medieval towers, palaces, and cobblestone streets. Day six brings a hands-on cooking class and wine tasting at Azienda Agricola Wine Estate, where you'll participate in a four-course cooking experience and sample sensational wines.

Day seven offers a relaxing hike in Langa, strolling through the scenic Barolo hills and rewarding yourself with coffee and Moscato wine at the end. Day eight features a wine tour of Barbaresco, known for its outstanding red wines, and the medieval villages of Nieve and Barbaresco.

On your last day , explore Alba further, including the late-Gothic Duomo and the bustling Via Vittorio Emanuele, where you can indulge in the region's finest local produce, including wines, truffles, cheeses, mushrooms, and the delightful nocciola cake.

Interest piqued? Browse our customizable Piedmont Discovery trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this overview of the 10 days Italy itinerary.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now .

Turin, Piedmont © Shutterstock

Langhe vineyards in Piedmont, Italy © Giorgio1978/Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: Fascinating Southern Italy - Naples, Sorrento and Capri

Discover the wonders of southern Italy on this 10-day itinerary , where you'll embark on a journey through charming towns along the Amalfi Coast , explore the island of Capri, savor the culinary delights of Naples, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Pompeii.

Start your adventure in Naples , a vibrant city nestled by the Bay of Naples. Spend two days exploring its historic streets, visiting iconic sites, strolling along the seafront, and indulging in Neapolitan street food.

On the third day , venture to Pompeii and witness its well-preserved ruins. Continue your journey to Sorrento on the fourth day , where you'll enjoy a private walking tour. Indulge in the town's charming streets and delectable dining options.

Days five and six are dedicated to exploring the picturesque town of Positano. Wander its winding streets, relax on the beach, or embark on a sailing excursion along the coast to discover hidden coves and the historic town of Amalfi.

Experience the luxurious atmosphere of Capri on days seven to nine . Delight in your free time to explore the island, visit its charming towns, and revel in panoramic views.

Conclude your journey with a private transfer and hydrofoil ride from Capri to Naples' Capodichino Airport on the final day. Depart with cherished memories of your unforgettable southern Italy adventure. Read more .

Check this overview of the 10 days Italy itinerary.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now .

Sorrento, Italy © Shutterstock

Ischia Island, Naples - Italy: The ancient church of Santa Maria al Monte on Mount Epomeo © Shutterstock

Ischia Island, Naples © Shutterstock

Giardini di Augusto in Capri, Italy © Natalia Macheda/Shutterstock

Giardini di Augusto in Capri, Italy ©Shutterstoc k

Itinerary #3: A gastronomic journey in Tuscany and Amalfi Coast

Experience the best of Italy in just 10 days , from Florence to the Amalfi Coast, where your senses will be tantalized at every turn. Start with a private transfer to your Florence accommodation and explore the city.

On day two, venture to the Chianti Wine Region for a scenic hike through vineyards and olive groves. Immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine on day three with a hands-on cooking experience in Florence.

Discover the renowned Montalcino area on day four , indulging in a full-day tour of medieval villages and wine cellars, with a multi-course Tuscan lunch. Travel to Naples on day five and embark on a guided tour, immersing yourself in the city's authentic atmosphere and culinary traditions.

Explore the ancient city of Pompeii on day six , learning about its fascinating history and enjoying a 3-course lunch. Hike to the crater of Mount Vesuvius for breathtaking views on the same day.

Transfer to Positano on day seven and enjoy leisure time exploring this stunning coastal town.

Discover the enchanting Amalfi Coast on days eight and nine, with a coach tour offering picturesque views, visits to charming towns, and optional hikes along the famous Path of the Gods trail.

On the final day, bid farewell to Italy with a private transfer to Naples Airport, carrying unforgettable memories of the landscapes, culture, and cuisine that defined your journey. Read more .

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now .

Amalfi, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

Positano, italy. Amalfi Coast © iacomino FRiMAGES/Shutterstock

Positano, italy. Amalfi Coast ©Shutterstock

Asciano with Val d'Orcia © Shutterstock

Itinerary #4: Treasures of Italy: Venice, Florence and Rome

From the charming waterways of Venice to the Renaissance-imbued streets of Florence, to the historic city of Rome , Italy's top three cities are as unique as they are unmissable. Experience them all on this fascinating 10-day trip .

The itinerary begins in Venice, where you are greeted by a private driver at the airport and taken to a hotel. The first day is free for leisure activities.

On the second day , you will enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a comprehensive city tour with a private guide.

Day three starts with a motor launch trip to the enchanting islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. After the island excursion, check out and take a scenic train journey to Florence.

On day four , a private guided tour takes visitors to Florence's iconic sights, including the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Pitti Palace, among others.

Day five offers an excursion to Pisa to marvel at the Leaning Tower and a visit to the charming town of Lucca . Afterwards, return to Florence to enjoy the rest of the evening at their leisure.

On day six , board a train to Rome. A guided tour of Rome's famous landmarks awaits on days seven and eight .

Day nine is a free day for you to explore Rome independently or engage in optional activities. On day ten , after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. Read more.

Excited by the possibilities? Book this trip now .

santa-maria-del-fiore-duomo-florence-italy-shutterstock_1340862311

Santa Maria del Diore Duomo in Florence © Shutterstock

Gondolas in Venice © Shutterstock

The Forum Romanum ruins in Rome, Italy © Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Best of south: Rome, Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Embark on this 10-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of South Italy. Arrive at Rome International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Rome. For the first two day s, explore the captivating beauty and history of the city at your own pace.

After breakfast on day three , board a high-speed train to Naples. Discover the city's magnificent palaces, winding streets, ancient churches, and underground passages on a guided tour. Enjoy a leisurely day four in Naples, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

Day five takes you to Pompeii, where you'll witness the remarkably preserved ruins of this ancient city. Continue to Herculaneum for another archaeological marvel. Day six begins with a visit to Mount Vesuvius, followed by a tour of the picturesque town of Sorrento.

On day seven , explore the captivating island of Capri, marveling at its dramatic rock formations and mesmerizing caves. Day eight is dedicated to the scenic Amalfi Coast, where you'll visit picturesque towns and admire breathtaking coastal views.

Enjoy a relaxing morning in Sorrento on day nine before taking a train back to Rome. Transfer to your hotel and reflect on your journey. On day ten, have a final breakfast before being transferred to Rome International Airport for your onward flight.

Immerse yourself in the charm of South Italy with this unforgettable 10-day trip, filled with culture, history, and breathtaking sights. Read more.

Striving for unforgettable memories? Book this trip now to create unforgettable moments.

st-peter-cathedral-vatican-rome-italy-shutterstock_249198943

St. Peter Cathedral in the Vatican, Rome © Shutterstock

Amalfi, Italy © Shutterstock

View on Naples © Shutterstock

Itinerary #6: Legend and Legacy - A Tour of Sicily

Explore the picturesque island of Sicily on this 10-day trip. Begin at Catania Airport, where you'll pick up your rental car. Check-in at the hotel and enjoy free time to explore Taormina .

On day two , relax and bask in the crystal-clear waters of Taormina's diverse beaches. Day three takes you on a guided trip to the Aeolian Islands, where you'll visit Panarea and Stromboli for a sunset tour.

Drive to Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, on day four . Take the afternoon to explore at your own pace. On day five, visit the medieval town of Erice, witness salt harvesting at the Sea Saltpans of Trapani, and explore the ancient city of Segesta.

Day six includes a visit to the Roman Villa of Casale and a guided tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. On day seven , venture to the small island of Ustica for a panoramic tour and boat trip.

Drive to Catania on day eight and check in at a hotel. Enjoy leisure time in Catania, known for its proximity to Mount Etna. Day nine takes you to the Sapienza Refuge, where you'll witness recent eruptions and explore the Wild Craters of Mount Etna. Indulge in delicious tastings at an organic farm.

On the final day , drive to Catania Airport to drop off your rental car. Bid farewell to the stunning island of Sicily, filled with unforgettable memories.

Tonnara Scopello © Shutterstock

The stage of Taormina's Greek Theater with the Etna in the background, Taormina, Sicily © K. Roy Zerloch/Shutterstock

The stage of Taormina's Greek Theater, Taormina, Sicily ©Shutterstock

Famous fountain of shame on baroque Piazza Pretoria, Palermo, Sicily, Italy © Shutterstock

Famous fountain of shame on baroque Piazza Pretoria, Palermo © Shutterstock

Itinerary #7: An Italian dream trip: Rome, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast

Experience the essence of Italy on a fantastic 10-day trip . Begin in Rome, where you'll delve into ancient history and take a cooking class. Then, venture to Sicily, marvel at Baroque architecture, and explore the iconic Mount Etna. Conclude your adventure with the enchanting Amalfi Coast and Capri.

Arrive at Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport. Embark on a treasure hunt with a private guide on day two , discovering Rome's ancient history.

Day three allows leisure time to explore Rome's art, culture, and architecture. In the afternoon, join a cooking class in Campo de' Fiori.

Fly to Catania, Sicily, on day four . Explore the city with a guided tour, visiting the Neapolis Archaeological Park and Ortygia Island. Enjoy a delightful dinner in Syracuse.

Discover Noto's Baroque buildings on day five , visiting the cathedral and Palazzo Ducezio. Day six starts with a chocolate-making workshop in Modica, followed by a guided walking tour of Ragusa's Baroque architecture.

Explore Mount Etna's volcanic craters and visit a prestigious wine cellar on day seven . Then, learn about pistachio farming and indulge in tastings in Bronte.

Fly to Naples on day eight . On day nine , enjoy a full-day tour of the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, visiting Ravello's gardens, walking to Amalfi along the Iron Valley, and exploring the town.

On day ten , transfer to Rome's airport after breakfast, bidding farewell to a remarkable 10-day journey through Italy. Read more .

Thirsty for adventure? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now .

Etna in the background, Taormina, Sicily ©Shutterstock

Naples Old Town ©Shutterstock

Itinerary #8: Dive into Apulia - cuisine & culture

Explore the beautiful region of Puglia in Italy on this 10-day itinerary . Begin your first day in Bari , where you'll have free time to explore the elegant Murat district and the historic center of Bari Vecchia.

Drive to Castel del Monte on day two to admire the fascinating fortress. Return to Bari for a guided street food tour, indulging in local culinary delights.

Day three takes you to the picturesque towns of Ostuni and Alberobello. Spend day four enjoying the beaches between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, experiencing stunning coastlines and rich cultural heritage.

Immerse yourself in nature on day five with a walk through the Reserve of Torre Guaceto. Day six brings you to Taranto , a city steeped in history, with its ancient center and strategic location.

On day seven , embark on a boat tour in Taranto marina, exploring the Ionian Sea and the chance to spot dolphins and whales. Day eight takes you to Lecce, known for its art and historic charm.

Learn the art of making orecchiette pasta on day nine during a cooking class led by a professional chef. Taste local products and drinks as you delve into the culinary traditions.

On day ten , return to Bari Airport, reflecting on the wonderful experiences gained during this unforgettable journey through Puglia. Read more .

Fascinated by the itinerary? Don't wait, book this trip now .

You might also want to browse our customizable Italy itineraries or talk to our local Italy experts .

Want to explore Europe even more? We have prepared the most convenient European itineraries for you to explore the continent .

View on Bari ©Shutterstock

Ostuni, or "The White City" ©Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Italy and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Italy

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Italy

Eating and drinking in Italy
How to get to Italy
Getting around Italy: Transportation Tips
Shopping tips for Italy
Sports and Outdoor activities in Italy
Travel Tips Italy for planning and on the go
Best time to visit Italy
How to spend 7 days In Italy - 8 unique itineraries
How To Spend 14 Days In Italy - 5 Unique Itineraries
How to get from Rome to Florence

Find even more inspiration for Italy here

Coasts & Islands
Where to Stay
History Culture Heritage
Architecture
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written by Joanne Owen

updated 10.06.2024

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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10 days in Italy, a complete itinerary day by day

March 3, 2024
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Which itinerary is best for spending 10 fantastic days in the beautiful country of Italy with Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Florence, and the splendid Venice? Let’s see how to make the most of your trip to Italy!

10 days itinerary to discover Italy

There is so much to experience in Italy that it is hard to squeeze everything into a 10-day itinerary. Rome, Florence, and Venice are obvious must-sees. We propose a 10-day itinerary in Italy with Amalfi Coast and Naples. You can travel quickly to Naples and enjoy a unique side of Italy.

Day 1 – 3: Rome

With 10 days in Italy, we start our itinerary in Rome. We stay 3 nights in Rome, but there are only 2 and a half days of visits because you will arrive on the first day and leave for Naples on the fourth day.

With only 3 nights in Rome, it is essential to pick a well-located hotel. Rome is a relatively big city. You can save time in transport. We recommend the area near the Vatican or Piazza Navona. You can read our post on Rome’s area to stay at .

See also our top things to do and visit in Rome .

Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Arrival. Yes, day 1 in Italy! You will arrive at Aeroporto International Leonardo da Vinci , Fiumicino Airport (FCO). The airport is quite far from the city, expect at least 30mn to go to the hotel. You have 3 ways to reach the city: shuttle bus, train, or taxi. The train is often the fastest because there are no rail traffic jams. Although, it will take you to Rome’s train station and you must get a taxi to the hotel. The taxi is more convenient, especially if your hotel is near Vatican City. Lastly, the shuttle bus is cheap. You can find every detail in our post about airport transfer in Rome .

Ciampino Airport. A second airport in Rome, Aeroporto di Roma Ciampino – Giovan Battista Pastine . Only some flights from low-cost carriers like Ryanair land here.

Jet-lag. Rome’s timezone is GMT+1 or GMT+2 in the summer. Coming from the US, you will have between 6 and 9 hours of time difference. That’s quite a lot for 10 days in Italy. If possible, get to bed and wake up early the week before traveling. If you get up at 8 am in Rome, that’s 2 am on the east coast.

Walking Tour. Even if you arrive late, the best thing to begin your Rome stay is a little walk from your hotel to Trevi Fountain. You can take the tiny street of Via del Salvatore from Piazza Navona, followed by Via Giustiniani , to reach the Pantheon. If it is still open and you have time, visit the Pantheon. Admission is free, and the visit is quick. Next, you continue on Via dei Pastini , walk by Adriano’s Temple, pursue Via delle Muratte , and you will arrive in front of Trevi Fountain.

Day 2: Roman Times

Colosseum. The Colosseum is impressive. It still stands nowadays, even if part was deconstructed (they used the stones to build St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican). For security reasons, the Colosseum capacity is maxed at 3000 people, so try to come in the morning and take a skip-the-line ticket. See our guide for visiting the Colosseum.

Roman Forum. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are close to the Colosseum. You can go from one to the other on foot. There are few queues for the Roman Forum. It can accept much more people without hazards as it is an open area. This place is enormous; you can walk for hours. It is a fantastic visit, especially if you like the Roman period.

Monument to Vittorio Emmanuel II. Italy is a recent country. Vittorio Emmanuel II was the first king of a unified Italy since Roman times. Thus, it is also a monument to Italy’s unification. You can climb on the terrace and experience a captivating view of Rome.

Day 3: Vatican City

St Peter’s Basilica. The majestuous St Peter’s Basilica is not to be missed in Rome. The interior is beautiful; it may be the most beautiful church in the world. You can climb on top of it and enjoy a sublime view. See our guide for visiting the Vatican .

Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo painted the sumptuous ceiling. The ceiling alone makes the Sistine Chapel worth visiting.

Vatican museums. The Vatican holds one of the most extensive art collections worldwide.

Day 4 – 6: Naples

Accommodation. Pick a hotel close to the train station; it is convenient because you can arrive and leave from there. Find here the best hotels to stay in Naples .

Day 4: Transfer to Naples

Train transfer. You will love traveling by train during this itinerary and your 10 days in Italy because it is convenient. You can travel very fast between Italian cities thanks to well-developed railways. Going from Rome to Naples will only take 1h10mn and cost about 30$ per person. The train leaves from downtown Rome (Termini Station) and stops in downtown Naples. You don’t need to arrive at the train station 2 hours before departures, 30mn is enough. You can find every detail in our post about traveling by train in Italy (Coming Soon).

Naples Landmarks. Walk through the streets of Naples and explore the historic center. Must-sees in Naples include the Sansevero Chapel, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, the Piazza del Plebiscito, the Galleria Umberto I, and the San Gennaro Catacombs. Click here to learn more about the best things to do in Naples .

best things to do and visit in naples italy

Day 5: Pompei + Vesuvius

Pompei is a buried Roman city. In 79 AD, the nearby volcano Vesuvius woke up and covered the town with a thick ash cloud. It is an exceptionally conserved ruin. A fascinating place to visit during this 10-day itinerary in Italy, especially for Roman times lovers.

Vesuvius. The Vesuvius is an active volcano. You can climb on it and enjoy a stunning view of Naples Bay.

How to visit. You can see Pompei by yourself if you want. You can get there by bus or taxi in about 40mn. Vesuvius is only accessible with a guide. A convenient way to see both is by taking a day tour with both visits included .

Alternative Day 5: Sorrento, Positano and the Amalfi Coast

Beautiful landscapes. If you like gorgeous coasts, skip Pompei and the Vesuvius and spend the day on the Amalfi Coast. Towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Salerne are lovely.

How to get to. The Amalfi Coast is between 1h and 1h30, away from downtown Naples. You can rent a car or take an organized day trip .

Alternative. You can adapt this 10-day itinerary in Italy to spend more time on the Amalfi Coast and less in Florence if you are not fond of Art. More details are below.

Day 6 – 8: Florence with a day trip to Pise or Cinque Terre

Hotels. Choose a hotel near the train station since you will arrive and leave Florence by train. It is also convenient because Florence’s train station is deep in the historic center. Only 10 minutes away from the Cathedral and 15 minutes from Ponte Vecchio. See our tips for choosing accommodation in Florence .

Day 6: Transfer to Florence

Train transfer. Direct trains from Naples to Florence take about 3 hours.

Art. The best thing to do in Florence is to enjoy the splendid artwork. The most beautiful Italian Renaissance artworks are exhibited in the Uffizi Gallery. Another great place is the Accademia Gallery, where you can see the world-famous David by Michelangelo.

Historic center. You can visit Florence on foot and see the Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and the Piazza della Signoria. Don’t miss our top things to do and visit in Florence .

cheap accomodation left side arno river florence

Day 7: A Day trip in Tuscany, Pise, or Cinque Terre

Tuscany. Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region. Tuscany is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy. It is a marvelous countryside, with many vineyards and wineries.

Pise. You can also visit Pise to see the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can take a day tour from Florence. Since you are now an expert in Italian railways, you can even take a round trip from Florence to Pise and discover the city of Pise yourself. The train trip gives an idea of Tuscany’s countryside: beautiful. The tower is not near the train station; you must walk 30 minutes to the historic center.

Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre in Italian means “Five Lands”. Cinque Terre National Park is a coastline with five villages. Each village was built on a cliffside, giving a unique style. Traveling by boat between villages is easier because the landscape is very steep.

Day 8 – 10: Venice

Where to stay? Pick a hotel in the center, for example, San Marco or San Polo. It is tough to get around in Venice, so a well-located hotel is essential.

Day 8: Transfer to Venice

Train transfer. Direct trains from Florence to Venice take about 2h15mn.

Gondola. You have to make one or several gondola tours in Venice. It is the best way to explore this amazing city. See prices and reviews here .

Day 9: Venice

Doge’s Palace. Palazzo Ducale was the home of the leader of the former glorious Republic of Venice. Thanks to its commercial navy, it was one of the greatest European economic powers during the Middle Ages. It is the best place to visit in Venice. There is often a queue to enter; the skip-the-line ticket is useful. Read our post on visiting Doge’s Palace .

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. The crown jewel of Venice. An amazing church on the outside and the inside. Admission is free. You can get there by water bus, at the “Salute” station.

Day 10: Departure

Airport transfer. The best way to end your 10 days in Italy itinerary is by taking the boat shuttle to Marco Polo Airport ( see prices and availability ). It is not the fastest, but it’s unique. See other ways on the airport transfer from Venice’s Marco Polo Airport .

Back to FCO? If you have a round-trip to Rome, you must return to Rome’s airport. You can book a flight from Venice to Rome. It is fast (1h10mn), and cheap (≈ 100$). You can also take a train, but it is less convenient. Only one train is direct to the airport, while the others leave you in downtown Rome and you must take another train. It is much slower by train (≈5h).

Alternatives 10-day itinerary

For Roman times lovers. You will find plenty of places to discover in Rome and Naples. Thus, you can stay longer in one of these cities and shorten Florence. Florence will appeal more to lovers of the Art and Renaissance periods. It’s still a great city to discover, but you could stay only one or two nights in Florence.

For Art lovers. If you plan an itinerary of 10 days in Italy to see as much Art as possible, especially Italian Renaissance Art, you can stay longer in Rome or Florence. Naples is less attractive for Art. If you don’t want to visit Pompei and climb Vesuvius , you can even skip Naples. You can then stay for 4 days in Rome and 4 days in Florence and make the most of the Italian Renaissance.

Beaches. Some of the best beaches in Italy are on the Amalfi Coast. You can twist this 10-day itinerary in Italy to stay longer in Naples and the Amalfi Coast to enjoy the beaches and the sea more.

10 day itinerary in Italy with Amalfi Coast

Preparing your 10 days in Italy itinerary

Do i need a visa to stay 10 days in italy.

UE & Schengen area . Citizens from the EU and the Schengen area can travel visa-free to Italy.

Visa Exemption. US Citizens can travel visa-free in Italy. You can arrive in Italy and travel without applying for a visa beforehand. That’s also the case for over 60 countries, for instance, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Brazil.

Travel Authorization. If you travel with a visa exemption, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization ( ETIAS ). It works like the American ESTA or the Korean KETA. It will be mandatory in 2024. Travel authorization is not required if you have a visa.

Visa. Citizens who cannot benefit from the visa exemption must apply for a visa before traveling. The visa is European and valid for the whole Schengen area for up to 90 days.

See here our comprehensive guide about Italy entry requirements .

Payments in Italy

Credit Card. Italy’s only currency is the Euro. Credit cards are broadly accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. AMEX is often limited to big stores or hotels. Don’t expect the tiny Italian restaurant to accept AMEX.

Minimum amount. Some small shops can have a minimum amount to accept credit cards, for example, 10€. They will only accept cash for smaller amounts.

Cash. You can get cash in any ATM. They are often free of charge, meaning you will not have to pay the Italian bank to withdraw. Nonetheless, your bank provider can charge you, for example, for withdrawing in another country or another currency.

Plug outlets

Italy uses electricity sockets type F or L. The voltage is 230V.

Europe. Not grounded Type C plugs are compatible with sockets in Italy. Grounded Europlugs Type E/F are compatible with the F Socket. You will need an adapter if your accommodation has only an L socket.

US, Canada, Mexico. US plug type A or B (grounded) are NOT compatible with the sockets in Italy. You need an adapter ( see prices here ). Moreover, the voltage is 230V, while 120V in the US. It means you must check that your device is compatible with this voltage. Nowadays, most devices are built to be compatible with the US (120V) and the rest of the world (220V – 240V) voltage. See here an adapter with a voltage converter .

UK, Singapore, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia. The Type G plugs are not compatible with electricity sockets in Italy. You will need an adapter.

Pro tip. Buy one adapter, and pack a power strip to power all your devices simultaneously.

How do you get Internet connectivity in Italy?

It is always helpful to have Internet connectivity while traveling. For instance, locate yourself with Google Maps, order an Uber, and read information about a place. Here are the best ways to get Internet connectivity in Italy.

Roaming. Roaming is the easiest way to get Internet connectivity in Italy. It is also costly. Prices depend on your provider. For instance, AT&T has an International Pass for 10$ a day. So it will cost you 140$ to get Internet connectivity with roaming.

Free WiFi. There is Free WiFi in many cafés and restaurants. Unfortunately, it is not reliable. You must ask for the WiFi password ( Posso avere la password del WiFi, per favore? ). It is usually a hassle, so we don’t recommend it.

Pocket WiFi Box. Pocket WiFi boxes are small battery-powered devices you keep with you every day. It is a 4G modem that shares its Internet on private WiFi. You can then connect all your devices to this private WiFi. You can rent a Pocket WiFi Box in many places or deliver it to your hotel when you arrive. The rent covers Internet usage, so you won’t have an unexpected fee later. The drawback is that you must recharge this device daily and hope it stays on the entire day. In Italy, prices are about 50$ for 3 days or 130$ for 10 days. Not worth it. See prices here .

Local SIM. You can buy a SIM when you arrive. It is usually cheap. The drawback is that you must find a seller when you arrive. Store your SIM in a safe location to avoid losing it. Since you have a new number, it also messes up your iMessage/FaceTime configuration. Lastly, you must change the SIM to connect somewhere you receive a 2FA code on your phone. It’s not convenient at all.

Local eSIM. eSIMs are virtual SIM cards. To install an eSIM on your phone, you only need to download it. Your smartphone must be compatible. It has worked on the iPhone since the Xs/XR was released in September 2018. Since it is a virtual SIM, you don’t need to remove yours. An eSIM is dirt-cheap and very easy to use. Since it is installed on your phone, it works flawlessly. An eSIM for 14 days in Italy with 2Go of data costs 8$. It is the cheapest option to get Internet Connectivity in Italy. We recommend buying an eSIM on the Airalo app, which we use. See prices here .

Where to buy your plane tickets for a 10-day itinerary in Italy?

Finding the ticket. The best plane ticket comparator in our eyes is Google Flights . There are few international, non-European routes to Italy. You will probably stop in the UK, France, Germany, or Dubai.

Book on the company site. Always book your plane ticket directly on the company site. When using travel agencies to buy your tickets, you can get fewer services, for example, no choice of seating. When problems happen, it is always a hassle with intermediaries, whereas the company usually has good customer service.

Etiquette in Italy

Speak local. It is always welcome when a visitor tries to speak the local language. If you can greet and thank in Italian, you can have a much better experience. The words to know in Italy are:

Buongiorno: literally “good day”, to be used from the morning till the evening
Buona sera, literally “good evening”, to be used in the evening
Grazie: Thank you

Tip. Service is always included in Italy, so tipping is not mandatory. Tipping is a clear sign you enjoyed the service.

The best time for a 10-day itinerary in Italy, from Amalfi Coast to Venice

Peak season. Most people visit Italy in July and August. These months can be sweltering. You can expect multiple days over 40°C (> 100°F) from June to August. AC is not everywhere in Italy, so you cannot go to the local cafe to cool down. For these reasons, we do not recommend July and August.

Winter. Winter in Italy is not great. The weather is cloudy, rainy, and not so cold, but enough to need a sweater and a trench. Snow in Rome, Milan, or Venice is scarce. Few people visit Italy, so you can have a great experience and little-to-no queue if you don’t mind the weather.

Holy Week. Vatican City, enclosed in Rome, is one of the most significant places for Catholics. The Pope lives here. During catholic events, especially the main one, aka the Holy Week and Easter, many pilgrims go to Rome to pray together. Visiting Rome and especially the Vatican during this week is much more complex.

In Between. The best time for an itinerary of 10 days in Italy is between these periods. September, October, April, and May. There is a little less crowd than during the summer, and the weather, with many sunny days and great temperatures, is perfect.

This 10-day itinerary allows you to discover many sides of Italy: the Roman period, the Italian Renaissance, the Middle Ages in Venice, and the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. We hope you will have a wonderful stay!

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The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary: Detailed Day by Day Guide + Map & Tips!

Last updated: September 5, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 6 Comments

Italy is one of our favourite European countries to travel in. We’ve visited, and written about, many of the towns and cities across the country.

One thing we are often asked for is a suggested Italy itinerary. And whilst we’ve written extensive itineraries for a few of the individual cities in Italy, we haven’t as yet put together a detailed itinerary for Italy.

So, starting with this post, we’re going to change that! This 10 day Italy itinerary covers some of our favourite cities and sights, and would make for the perfect trip, especially if this is a first time visit to Italy.

This itinerary has a focus on the cities we think first time visitors will enjoy, plus it makes the travel part of the trip that much easier. Whilst you can rent a car in Italy of course, we think using the high speed rail network to get between locations on this itinerary is going to be easier.

Speaking of getting around, as well as the detailed day by day itinerary of sights and attractions, the itinerary has tips for getting around Italy, advice on saving money, and general planning advice for your trip.

Table of Contents:

Italy Itinerary Summary

In summary, this itinerary for 10 days in Italy looks as follows:

Rome – 2 days
Florence & Tuscany – 2 days
Bologna – 2 days
Milan – 2 days
Venice – 2 days

Of course, this is just a guide, and you can add or remove days and destinations to suit your interest and travel style.

There are lots of potential options and variations on this route, including towns like Lucca and Pisa, the Cinque Terre, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Verona and Padua – to name just a few! So definitely just use this as a guide, and build upon it to make your own ideal itinerary for Italy.

We prefer to travel a little slower and spend longer in a location where possible. We also like to try and spend 2 nights in each location as a minimum, so as to avoid having to pack up and move hotels every day.

It’s also important when planning a trip to consider the time spent travelling between locations, and we’ve tried to keep this to under two hours for each part of our itinerary.

Just remember, there will always be more to see, wherever in the world you are going, and the temptation to fill an itinerary to bursting can be high. Try to resist this temptation, as you’ll end up just rushed and not really enjoying the trip.

Now, let’s get into the details of this 10 day Italy itinerary.

10 Day Italy Itinerary

Days 1 & 2: rome.

Rome is the capital city of Italy, and we think starting here makes a lot of sense. The city has great international flight connections, as well as train connections to the rest of Italy and much of Europe.

However, the real reason to start here is that there is so much to see and do in Rome. We’ve visited multiple times, and never run out of things to do in Rome.

2 days in the city will give you time to see the main highlights on offer, covering thousands of years of history, culture and art. You’ll also have time to treat yourself to some gelato, sip coffee in a traditional coffee house, and eat delicious Italian food. What a way to start your trip!

We’d suggest that your 2 days in Rome might look as follows.

What to Do in Rome

On your first day, we’d recommend starting with the Colosseum. Built almost 2,000 years ago, when the Roman Empire was as its height, this is a must-see attraction in Rome.

The Colosseum is a popular attraction, and you’ll want to reserve your time slot in advance on the official website here so you can get in at a convenient time.

Alternatively, you can take a guided tour, which includes skip the line entry to the Colosseum as well as the Roman Forum. We highly recommend taking a tour of the Colosseum like this one or this one if your budget and timeframe allows for it, as it is a complex site with a lot of history. But it’s up to you of course!

Read more about visiting the Colosseum in our detailed guide to the Colosseum .

From the Colosseum, the next logical stop is the Roman Forum. This is right next door, and entry is generally included as part of your Colosseum ticket.

The Roman Forum is where the business of the Roman Empire was conducted, and it was basically the epicentre of the Empire. There’s lots to see and do here, and overall you’re probably looking at 3-4 hours to take in both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

So that’s your morning all planned out! We’d suggest having a break for lunch at this point. Head into the historic city center, which is just 10-15 minute walk from the Forum, where you’ll find no shortage of eating options.

For your afternoon, our recommendation is to explore the city center. You’ll likely be tired from your trip, so trying to fit too much in on your first day is probably a bad idea. Instead, you can wander around and take in sights like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, and Rome’s many pretty piazzas.

We can also recommend taking a break for either coffee or gelato – or both! See our guide to the best gelato in Rome , and the best cafes in Rome for plenty of excellent options.

On your second day in Rome, we recommend visiting Vatican City . This is actually a city-state, so technically you’ll be visiting a different country. Don’t worry though, you won’t need to bring your passport, and you probably won’t notice when you cross the border.

The Vatican City is home to a number of attractions, including the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, as well as St. Peter’s Basilica.

The former is home to one of the most impressive art collections in the world, and includes Michelangelo’s masterpiece: the famous Sistine Chapel. Expect to spend 2-3 hours here just to see the major highlights.

The best place to get tickets is directly from the Vatican website , as they offer the best value tickets in our experience. Advance tickets include skip the line access and you also get to visit the Sistine Chapel.

Another option is to book with this website , using our link gives you 5% off their usual price for Vatican tickets. It’s a little more expensive but somewhat more user friendly in our experience. They also normally have availability even if the official website is booked out.

From the Vatican, it’s a quick walk around the corner to St. Peter’s Basilica. This is the largest Catholic church in the world, and is also home to a number of notable artworks. If you’re feeling fit, I can very much recommend taking the time to head up to the dome for wonderful views across Rome.

Like the Colosseum and many other attractions in Rome, the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are very popular so entry lines can be long.

You will want to plan ahead, and consider purchasing a guided tour like one of these so you don’t have to waste your trip queuing unnecessarily.

Alternatively, consider a walking tour like this which includes both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Skip the line entry to the Vatican is included on the Omnia Card as well as the Rome Tourist Card , both of which also comes with a number of other benefits. The latter also includes a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica which skips the line and includes a dome climb, which is a highly recommended experience.

You can also book individual skip the line tickets on the official site here for the Vatican , which is the most cost-effective option if you don’t want to take a tour or buy a pass.

As of early 2023 St Peter’s Basilica doesn’t actually have an entry fee, but nor does it have skip the line tickets (skip the line tickets used to be an option and we hope they come back soon!). So the best option if you want to skip the line is to invest either in a tour or a pass which includes a tour like the Rome Tourist Card .

Note that regardless of any skip the line privileges, the majority of attractions across Italy will have security checks, so you will always have to go through these.

For lots more information on visiting the Vatican City and its attractions, see our complete guide to the Vatican , which has everything you need to know, including all the highlights, tips for visiting, how to buy tickets and lots more.

Seeing all the above will likely have used up at least half of your second day in Rome.

For the remainder of your day, we would recommend starting off by taking in the 2,000 year old Castel Sant’Angelo on the banks of the Tiber, which is just a short walk from the Vatican City. You can get tickets on the door or in advance here .

Then, enjoy the rest of your afternoon exploring some of the old churches, shops, coffee houses, and piazzas that the city has to offer. Or you might schedule an afternoon visit to a museum such as the Borghese Gallery . We don’t think you’ll run out of things to do!

While you’re in Rome, you might decide to take a walking tour. We’ve listed a couple above, both of which are with Take Walks , one of our favorite companies for walking tours. You can see all their Rome tours here .

This would also be a good time to take a food tour. See our guide to the best food tours in Rome here for some ideas.

Rome, like many cities around the world, also has a variety of city attraction passes to choose from which include transport and attraction entry. For 2 days in Rome, we recommend the Rome Tourist Card , which includes the Vatican, Colosseum and a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica as well as handy audio guides.

Another option would be a combination of the Roma Pass and the Omnia Card . The former includes public transport and entry to the Colosseum and Castel Sant’Angelo, whilst the latter has entry to the Vatican City attractions.

You can also buy these cards together, in a product called the Omnia Rome and Vatican Pass . This is a good option which we often recommend for Rome, however it’s only available in a 3 day version so is likely not going to be a good option for this itinerary.

Of course, every individual trip is different, and you will need to figure out the costs of any card you purchase against the sights you want to see, to ensure it’s worth it. If you plan on doing a walking tour, are visiting at a quieter time of year, or don’t plan on seeing everything, they might not be worth the cost.

For more inspiration for your visit to Rome, see our itineraries for 3 days in Rome , 2 days in Rome and a day in Rome .

Where to Stay in Rome

For this itinerary, our recommendation is to stay central, ideally close to Termini train station, which is where you’ll get the train to your next destination. However, any central location in the old city center will work. We’d recommend looking for locations between Piazza Navona and Termini.

Some suggested options are as follows, ordered approximately by price

The RomeHello – found just a few moments from Rome’s Termini Station, this hostel features a range of room types, from dormitories to private en-suite rooms. There’s free WiFi, fantastic reviews, and it’s a great value option.
Orsa Maggiore Hostel – just across the river in Rome’s trendy Trastevere district, this female only hostel features a range of room types including dormitories and private rooms.
Di Rienzo Pantheon Palace – a very well reviewed guesthouse option in the heart of the city, just moments from the Pantheon and other attractions. The building is a 16th century property, and rooms feature en-suite facilities, free wi-fi and breakfast
The Mimosa Pantheon Hotel – right next to the Pantheon, and therefore well placed for the city’s attractions, this is a well reviewed good value 1* hotel. Rooms feature private bathrooms, air conditioning and free WiFi. A solid budget choice.
The Navona Theatre Hotel – just five minutes walk from Piazza Navona, this is a very well rated 3* hotel within easy walking distance of most of Rome’s main attractions
The Hotel Navona – another well reviewed 3* hotel in central Rome near Piazza Navona. This hotel is in a restored 15th century building which features restored original frescoes. Rooms have en-suite facilities, air conditioning and free WiFi
Hotel Valentino Palace – a fantastic mid-range 3* property, just 150 yards from the train station
Gioberti Art Hotel – 50 yards from Termini Station, a well rated excellent value 4* hotel
NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento – Good value 5* hotel just a few steps from the train station

How to get to Florence from Rome

You have a few options for getting to Florence for Rome.

Our recommended option would be to take the train. These direct services run multiple times throughout the day, and the journey takes around 90 minutes.

In our experience, you get the best prices by booking a train in advance. This will get you a seat reservation, and booking in advance will get you the best prices. We recommend checking prices and booking online here .

You can also book train tickets just by turning up at the train station. You will still get a seat reservation, but availability is not always guaranteed last minute, and the prices will be usually be higher than booking in advance.

If you wanted to save a bit of money, it’s also possible to take a coach from Rome to Florence. These are a little bit cheaper, but take around four hours so we generally think the train is worth paying a bit more for to save time. You can check coach times and prices across a number of providers and book online here . You can also check directly with FlixBus here .

If you’d prefer more of a door-to-door service, you can book a private transfer from Rome to Florence. Obviously this is a more premium option, but if you are travelling in a group it can work out fairly cost effectively. It’s also going to be the easiest option, as it will take you from the door of your hotel in Rome to your hotel in Florence.

You can book a private transfer online in advance here . Expect the trip to take around 3 hours, depending on traffic.

Finally, you can also hire a car and drive between the two cities. You can check prices across a number of car rental agencies on Discover Cars here .

Honestly, I’d advise against this as it’s likely to be more hassle than it’s worth. Once you factor in picking up and dropping of the car, fuel costs, tolls and parking fees, it’s not likely to be more cost effective or quicker than any other option. That said, if you are travelling as a group it might make sense.

Days 3 & 4: Florence and Tuscany

Florence is a stunning city. It has architectural highlights like the magnificent Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio covered bridge, as well as incredible cultural attractions including Michelangelo’s David, the art of the Uffizi Gallery, and the Pitti Palace .

It’s also surrounded by rolling Tuscan countryside, which is dotted with beautiful towns like Siena, as well as Chianti growing vineyards.

Suffice to say, there’s quite a lot to see and do in Florence!

Our suggestion for your two days in the region is to spend one day fully exploring Florence itself, and one day exploring the wider Tuscany region. This will give you the time to experience the highlights of Florence, plus take in some of what Tuscany has to offer.

We’ve actually written a detailed guide to visiting Florence and Tuscany in two days , which should help plan this part of your trip. We’ll also go through a summary of how your two days will look here as well.

What to Do in Florence

For your first day, you’ll want to explore the city of Florence itself.

A good plan is to start your day by visiting probably the world’s most famous statue – Michelangelo’s David. This is found in the Accademia Gallery, where you will also find a number of other artworks including paintings and sculptures.

The statue of David is one of the most popular attractions in the city, so you do need to plan your visit a little bit in advance. The Accademia Gallery, like other popular attractions, operates a timed entry system. You can reserve your tickets online in advance on the official website here . This is definitely not one to just turn up at and hope to get tickets on the door!

From the Accademia, head on over to the Duomo. This 13th century cathedral features the world’s largest brick dome, and the marble facade is truly breathtaking. It’s free to visit (although expect a line at busier times of year). I can also recommend taking the time to climb to the top of the dome (fee) which offers a unique perspective of the building, as well as wonderful views across the city.

From the Duomo, I’d advise spending a little bit of time wandering the nearby streets, which are wonderfully picturesque. Make sure to visit the Ponte Vecchio, one of the few bridges in the world to have shops built onto it.

It’s also home to an above ground corridor – the Vasari Corridor , a mile long private walkway that linked the Medici’s Palazzo Pitti with their Palazzo Vecchio. Because obviously building a mile long private corridor above the streets of Venice is easier than having to actually see the people you rule.

This might also be a good time for a lunch break, depending on how you’re time is going.

For the afternoon, I’d suggest heading to the Uffizi Gallery. I appreciate two art museums in one day might be a bit much for some, but bear with me. Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance. Some of the most famous paintings from the world’s best known artists originated here.

And the Uffizi gallery is the perfect place to see how the Renaissance really changed art. You can see how painted art in particular evolves from the very flat, two dimensional pre-Renaissance style, to really becoming a much more complex and intricate medium as the Renaissance takes hold.

The Uffizi gallery is also popular, and as a result, also operates a timed entry system. You can buy tickets online from the official site here .

Before we go on to finishing your first day in Florence with a fantastic sunset watching opportunity and city view, I did want to quickly mention that a great way to experience all of the above is with a tour. We took this full day tour of Florence with Take Walks , which included visiting all the attractions above, and we can definitely recommend it.

A tour guide can really bring to life the stories and history of a city and its art, and it really helped us understand what we were seeing. The other advantage of a tour is that it means you don’t have to worry about booking time slots or standing in line for tickets!

We took this tour , but there are a number of other Florence tours which you can check out here .

Finally, our final suggestion for your day in Florence is to head up to Piazzale Michelangelo. This is found about a 20-30 minute walk from the city centre, and it offers probably the best view of the city at sunset. It’s hard not to be wowed by the view of Florence from this vantage point, with the magnificent Duomo the focal point of the skyline.

For your second day in Florence, our suggestion is to head out into Tuscany. This region of Italy, of which Florence is the regional capital, is well known for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful towns, and wine production. It’s also a popular destination.

You have lots of options for a day trip from Florence, including towns like Siena, Pisa and Lucca, as well as the Cinque Terre region. All of these would make for a fantastic day trip from Florence. Some, like Pisa, are easy to reach by public transport, whilst others might require a tour.

On one of our trips to Tuscany, we did this full day tour from Florence which included wine tasting, time in Siena, and a visit to the town of San Gimignano. It also included a full lunch at a Chianti vineyard, which was delicious, and we thought the tour offered excellent value as well as showcasing some of the real highlights of the region. So that’s an option to consider.

There are some other tours you might consider, such as:

This full day tour from Florence to the Cinque Terre
This full day tour from Florence which includes visits to Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa
This half-day tour of the Chianti wineries with food and wine tasting

Now, let’s get on with some practicalities for your time in Florence.

Where to Stay in Florence

As you are probably aware, Florence is a popular city to visit. The good news is that there’s a wide range of accommodation options, from hostels to luxury hotels and apartments.

To help you narrow this choice down a little, we’ve picked a number of central options for you to consider, across a range of price points.

Hostel Archi Rossi – If you’re looking for a hostel in central Florence, this is an excellent choice. They have a choice of private and shared rooms, breakfast is included, and private bathrooms are available as is free WiFi. It’s also very convenient for the train station.
Academy Hostel – Found just 100 yards from Florence Cathedral, this hostel is right in the centre of town. The property is well reviewed and offers dormitory and private rooms, some with private bathrooms. Breakfast is included.
3110 ArtHotel , this 3* property is a bit further out of the city centre, but this is reflected in the price. Otherwise, all rooms have a private bathroom and breakfast is usually included.
Room Mate Luca – a well reviewed and great value 4* property in central Florence. It’s in a 19th century building 10 minutes walk from the Cathedral, rooms are en-suite and breakfast is included
Solo Experience Hotel – Overlooking the Basilica of San Lorenzo this well located 4* hotel has excellent reviews and a fantastic location. Rooms include breakfast and are en-suite.
Hotel Lungarno – Found just 100 yards from Ponte Vecchio on the banks of the River Arno, this 5* property has excellent ratings and everything you would expect from a luxury property
J.K. Place Firenze – With a rooftop terrace and a location just five minutes from the train station, this highly rated 5* property offers free breakfast and lovely rooms

There are lots more options in Florence of course! We recommend you take a look at the listings on booking.com for Florence. as a starting point for your search.

How to Get From Florence to Bologna

Again, as with the rest of our itinerary, our suggestion for getting to the next stop on our itinerary is to take the train. The train from Florence to Bologna runs regularly, and takes around 40 minutes. You can check times and book train tickets in advance here .

It’s also possible to take the bus from Florence to Bologna. This is only marginally cheaper than the train and takes approximately twice as long. Check coach times and book online here . You can also check directly with FlixBus here .

You can also book a private transfer between the two cities. Obviously this will be more expensive, but will also be the most convenient (if not necessarily the fastest, as the train is very quick).

Finally, if you have a car, you can drive between the two cities. Expect the drive to take between 90 minutes and 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Days 5 & 6: Bologna

For your fifth and sixth days in Italy, you’re going to visit Bologna, capital of the Emilia-Romagna region. 2 days is a great amount of time to spend in this city, which is famous for its fantastic food. After all, Bologna is where Bolognese sauce comes from!

The region is also famous for a number of other foods, including Balsamic Vinegar from Modena, Prosciutto di Parma from Parma, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese – to name but a few.

There is more to do in Bologna than eat of course. Let’s take a look at how your two days might look.

What to Do in Bologna

Bologna is famous for its towers, of which it once had over 200. This was because building a tower back in medieval times was a way to demonstrate wealth, and Bologna had quite a few wealthy nobles.

Today, around a tenth of the original towers survive, with the two largest being Garisenda and Asinelli towers. Asinelli is the largest leaning medieval tower in the world, and dates from the early 12th century.

When I’m visiting a new city, I always like to go to the top of a structure like a tower or church, so I can get a feel for the city. The first time I visited Bologna, that was exactly what I did, climbing the almost 500 steps to the top of Asinelli tower. Despite its slight lean this is quite safe, and well worth the ticket price. Book your tickets in advance on the official site here .

The Asinelli tower is right next to the city’s main Piazza, Piazza Maggiore. This is home to a beautiful fountain, buildings dating from both the medieval and Renaissance time periods, and stunning arched colonnades.

Speaking of colonnades, Bologna is famous for them. The city has over thirty miles of arcades and colonnades you can explore, which as well as being beautiful, serve the dual functions of keeping you out of the sun when it’s hot, and the rain when it’s wet!

I’d suggest that spending a bit of time around Piazza Maggiore and filling your camera with some photos would be a worthwhile use of part of your morning. Plus you might want a coffee after your lengthy tower climb!

Whilst you’re at the Piazzale Maggiore, there are a few attractions you should visit. The free Archiginnasio of Bologna was the home of Bologna’s university – the first university in western Europe. The library is home to beautiful arcades, which are covered with the coats of arms of former students. It’s free to visit.

Next, you might want to head to the Basilica of San Domenico. Dating from the early 13th century, this basilica is home to a number of famous artworks, and the chapel of St. Dominic is particularly lovely.

To finish off your day, I’m going to suggest taking a stroll in the colonnades to Montagnola Park. Taking a stroll in the colonnades in the afternoon is a traditional local pastime, known as a passeggiata. Via dell’Indipendenza, which runs north from Piazza Maggiore past Montagnola Park, is home to some of the most impressive colonnades, so I think this makes a logical route.

Montagnola Park, which dates from the 19th century, is home to some nice green spaces as well as the remains of a 14th century castle.

I mentioned food, and you definitely don’t want to miss out on the local specialities. Things I recommend trying are a piadina (a flatbread sandwich), and a tagliatelle al ragù (meat sauce over flat noodles). While ragù (or Bolognese sauce) is often served with spaghetti in most of the rest of the world, the most traditional way to eat it is with tagliatelle.

For your second day in Bologna you have two main options. You can continue your sightseeing in the city, or you can take a day trip out into the region to explore a little more.

If you decide to stay in the city there’s plenty to keep you busy. Great attractions in the city include the Basilica di Santo Stefano, the Palazzo del Podestá, the Bologna National Gallery, and the museum of the history of Bologna. You might also consider a food tasting tour like this or a cooking class like this to learn how to create some of those delicious dishes you’ve been eating!

If you decide to head out of Bologna for the day, you have a number of options. First, you can pick a destination that’s easy to reach by train from Bologna, such as Parma, Modena, or Ferrara.

If you decide on doing a day out by train, we’d suggest picking whichever location most interests you and going there for the full day. We’d also suggest picking somewhere that is no more than 90 minutes away to minimise the time spent travelling.

Alternatively, you can join a tour from Bologna that will take you to a number of interesting locations in the area. A tour is a good option if you want to see a few things and want to let someone else worry about the logistics. Some options you might consider are:

Car lovers will know that Emilia Romagna is the home of Ferrari, found in Maranello. This full day tour takes you to the Ferrari Museum and includes lunch
Not interested in cars? This full day tour focuses on the regional food specialities and also includes lunch
If you would prefer to try some of the regional wines, then this full day wine tasting tour might be right for you
You can also visit Ravenna on this full day private tour from Bologna.

As you can see, there’s lots to choose from depending on your interests.

Now, let’s look at some practicalities for you time in Bologna.

Where to Stay in Bologna

As a major city Bologna has plenty of options to choose from across a range of budgets and types. Here are some options to consider for your 2 night stay. These are approximately ordered by price, from lowest to highest, but do always check prices for your dates as they can vary.

B&B Gran Suite Piazza Maggiore – found right in the heart of the city, this is a great budget option with good reviews. Rooms include breakfast, and are available with shared or private bathrooms.
B&B Piazza Grand – another well rated and very centrally located B&B. Rooms include breakfast and a private bathroom.
Guesthouse Red Sofa – just two minutes walk from Piazza Maggiore, this is a very well reviewed guesthouse with en-suite rooms and breakfast included
Hotel Roma – a centrally located 3* hotel, moments walk from Piazza Maggiore. Rooms are en-suite, reviews are very positive and breakfast is included.
Art Hotel Orologio – this is a well reviewed centrally located 4* hotel offering free bike rental, free breakfast, and a a range of en-suite room types to choose from.

We hope one of these options works for your stay in Bologna!

How to Get from Bologna to Milan

By this point you should be familiar with our suggested travel modes for getting between cities in Italy, and Milan is no different. From Bologna there are regular trains to Milan, which take around an hour. Just be sure to get a train to Milano Centrale, which is the central train station. You can check train times and prices between Bologna and Milan online here .

You can also get a bus between Bologna and Milan. This will be around half to a third the price on average and the trip takes around three hours. You can check times and prices here . You can also check directly with FlixBus here .

If you want to drive, you’re looking at between a 2 and 3 hour journey on average, depending on traffic conditions.

Days 7 & 8: Milan

Your next stop on this 10 day Italy itinerary is going to be Milan. This is well known as a fashion capital, but there’s lots to see and do here to fill your time beyond clothes!

If Milan doesn’t rock your world though, there are lot of options to choose from. Some alternatives from Bologna that would also work include Verona and Padua, as well as Lake Garda or Lake Como. You could also head out to the coast, either the Cinque Terre on the west, or Rimini on the east. You could even visit a whole new country, San Marino!

However, let’s continue planning your stay in Milan, to which we’ve also allocated two days, and which has plenty to see and do. We have an itinerary below, and we also have a dedicated guide to things to do in Milan as well as a 2 day Milan itinerary for you to check out.

What to Do in Milan

We’ll start your first day by visiting Milan’s Cathedral, the Duomo di Milano. Construction started in 1386, and it wasn’t fully completed until 1965. Yes, that’s 600 years. I think you’ll find that taking their time definitely paid off though.

It’s the largest church in Italy (the larger St. Peter’s Basilica you visited in Rome is technically in the Vatican City state rather than Italy), and is particularly notable for the spires that cover the roof, of which there are 135.

To really appreciate the incredible architecture, I can recommend heading up to the roof. There’s a fee to do so, but it is well worth it. You can buy tickets in advance here .

Coming back down from the church, you will find yourself in the Piazza del Duomo, from where there are a number of each to reach attractions.

Lovers of 20th century art will likely want to head to the Museo del Novecento , a relatively new museum with around 400 pieces of art from the twentieth century.

If you’d prefer to explore a former Royal Palace, head to the Palazzo Reale . This was the place of government in Milan from the 16th century, and is today a cultural centre. The staircases are particularly impressive.

Milan is of course one of the major fashion capitals of the world and fashion shows are held in the city twice a year. Fashion week in Milan usually takes place in February and September.

Although you probably won’t get to see one of the fashion shows, the city is a great place to shop for Italian fashion. Many of Italy’s most famous fashion houses are based in Milan including Prada, Missoni, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Armani.

If you want to learn more about fashion in Milan and have a local to go shopping with, check out this Milan Fashion Tour .

If you enjoy shopping, and honestly, even if you don’t, you’ll definitely want to head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II . This is an 18th century shopping arcade now home to high-end stores. But even if you don’t plan on buying anything, this is worth a visit just for the incredible glass covered design.

Also within a five minute stroll of the Duomo is San Bernardino alle Ossa . With origins dating from the 12th century, this church is known for its ossuary. In 1210, the nearby cemetery ran out of space, so the church started storing them in a room.

This is now a chapel, decorated almost entirely with human bones, and with a spectacular fresco on the ceiling. It’s free to visit, and open when the church is open – you can see opening times here .

Finally, don’t miss the small Piazza dei Mercanti. This was the original medieval public square of the city. Milan often feels more modern than other Italian cities, and this is a good place to get that stepping back in time feeling.

The Piazza often plays host to art exhibits, performances and markets, so you might even catch an event. It’s also where you’ll find the Palazzo della Ragione Fotografia , a 13th century palace which is today used for a variety of exhibitions. As the name suggests, many of these are photographic. Entry fees vary depending on the exhibition.

To finish off your first day in Milan, we recommend finding a nice café and enjoying an aperitivo. This Italian custom of enjoying a drink with some snack in the early evening before your main meal originated in Milan in the 18th century, and is still popular today.

We’d suggest heading over to Milan’s canal area, the Navigli district, where there are lots of bars to choose from. Plus, the canals you’ll find here were designed by Leonardo da Vinci, so you’re also experiencing the work of an Italian master!

Hopefully that gives you plenty to fill your first day in Milan! If you’re still looking for things to do, see our guide to things to do in Milan for more ideas.

For your second day in Milan again we have two options for you. You can take a day trip out of the city, or you can take in some more of the city’s highlights, including one of the most famous paintings in the world. Our preference would be to continue to explore the city as there’s so much to see and do still, but of course it’s up to you!

If you decide to stay in the city, then we suggest you might want to schedule some time to see Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”. This is one of the most well known of the artists paintings, and can be found in the Santa Maria delle Grazie. The painting was commissioned in the 15th century as a mural for the church’s dining area, and is still to be found in the same place today.

As one of the most famous paintings in the world, the Last Supper has many people wanting to see it. The church controls the numbers tightly – only 30 visitors are allowed per timeslot, and you get 15 minutes with the painting on your visit.

This means getting tickets to see it can be a challenge, as they can book out a long time in advance. The best place to start your search is on the official website here . If they do not have tickets, your next best option is to book a guided tour. Group tours come from a different ticket pool, so you might have a better chance of getting a ticket this way, although of course they are more expensive.

We recommend Take Walks who run a guided tour of Milan which includes many of the highlights such as the Duomo rooftop as well as access to the Last Supper. However, there are many options, some of which just focus on the Last Supper. Take a look at these tours for some options .

For your next stop in Milan, we suggest the Castello Sforzesco . This is a massive castle, built in the 15th century atop a 14th century fortification. By the 17th century, this had been expanded to become one of the largest citadels in Europe.

Of course, today there isn’t much need for giant city centre fortresses, so Sforza Castle has been repurposed into a series of museums which include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Egyptian Museum, the Museum of Musical Instruments and the Archaeological Museum.

In fact, there are no less than nine museums to explore here! Between the museums and the castle grounds, I think you could easily spend most of the rest of your day exploring here.

When you’re visiting Sforza Castle, we suggest you don’t miss the Pinacoteca, which has art from Canaletto, Titian and Mantegna, to name but a few. The Museum of Rondanini Pietà is home to Michelangelo’s last sculpture. Then there’s the Museum of Ancient Art, the Egyptian Museum, the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Archaeological Museum – the list goes on!

There’s a reasonable entry fee to the castle which includes all the museums. You can check prices and admission times, as well as buy an advance ticket, online here .

Finally, lovers of opera might want to consider a visit to La Scala , one of the world’s most famous opera houses. If so, make sure to book your tickets well in advance as this is a very popular venue. There are also other venues for classic performances. You can see these and buy tickets here .

If you’d prefer to head out of Milan for the day, you have a number of options, from heading up into the Alps, to exploring Lake Como or Lake Garda, to visiting Cinque Terre, or exploring one of the many towns in the region. Here are some suggested day tours from Milan to consider:

This full day tour which include Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna, as well as a cruise on the lake
This full day tour which has you riding the Bernina train through the Swiss Alps and visiting the famous luxury resort St. Moritz
This full day tour to Lake Como, Bellagio and Lugano, which also includes a cruise on the lake
A full day tour to Cinque Terre from Milan
This full day tour to Verona and Lake Garda from Milan, which includes a boat tour on the lake
This full day tour to the Ligurian coast, visiting Genoa and Portofino, with a sail boat ride included

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options!

Where to Stay in Milan

As a major Italian city, Milan has plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Here are some suggested options, ordered approximately by budget from low to high.

Ostello Bello – if you’re looking for a centrally located budget option in Milan, this is a great option. Just 10 minutes walk from the Duomo, Ostello Bello offers both private and dormitory accommodation, with both dinner and breakfast included.
Babila Hostel & Bistrot – another well reviewed and centrally located hostel, Babila Hostel has both private rooms and dormitory style accommodation. Breakfast is included.
Hotel Star – an excellent value and well reviewed 3* hotel within close walking distance of the city centre attractions. En-suite rooms with breakfast available.
Rooms Milano Duomo – 2 minutes walk from the Duomo, this is a good 3* property with excellent reviews. Rooms are en-suite, some with city views, and come with tea/coffee making facilities
Brunelleschi Hotel – A well rated and good value 4* hotel just moments from the Duomo and other city-centre attractions. Rooms are all en-suite, and a breakfast buffet is included.
Matilde Boutique Hotel – a very well rated 4* boutique hotel just a few moments walk from the Duomo. There’s a restaurant and bar on site, breakfast is included, and rooms are all en-suite.
Room Mate Giulia – another highly rated and centrally located 4* hotel. Rooms are modern and en-suite, and breakfast is available.
Galleria Vik Milano – found within the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, this well located 5* hotel offers high end accommodation. Some rooms have views of the gallery, breakfast is included, and naturally rooms are en-suite with coffee machines.

Hopefully this gives you plenty of options for accommodation in Milan – whatever your budget.

How to Get from Milan to Venice

The best option in our opinion is to take the train from Milan to Venice, specifically the Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia which is on the island in the lagoon.

Direct trains are well priced if you book tickets in advance, and the journey takes just over two hours if you pick the fastest train option. Slower trains can take up to 3.5 hours, and sometimes require a change. We’d suggest picking the faster trains obviously. You can check train times and prices and buy online here .

If you’re on a tight budget, you can also take the bus. Direct buses take around four hours depending on time of day and traffic conditions, and are a convenient option. Check bus times and prices and buy online here . You can also check directly with FlixBus here .

If you want to drive, you’re looking at around a 3 hour drive depending on the traffic conditions. As the majority of the island on the lagoon is pedestrian only, you will need to find somewhere to park your car. There are limited options on the island itself, near the train station, and more options on the mainland. You can see the various car parking options near Venice and book online in advance on Parclick here .

It’s worth pointing out that the Venice that most tourists known and want to visit is the historical part in the lagoon. This part of Venice is primarily pedestrianized other than a small section near the train station. As such, whatever transport you get to Venice will not be able to get you directly to your hotel if you are staying in the historical area.

Instead, you will need to either walk, or take a water bus, to get closer to your hotel.

There is a great deal more to Venice that many tourists never actually visit, with many of the boroughs actually on the mainland. There are also hotels in these areas of course. However, we suggest staying in the historical centre for the best experience.

Days 9 & 10: Venice

You’re in the final stretch of your trip! Don’t be sad though, because Venice truly is a magnificent city to visit. We liked it so much we even held our wedding ceremony here .

Venice is one of those places that seems to divide opinion, with visitors either falling in love with it or thinking it’s an overcrowded tourist trap.

We’re firmly on the former side of the equation. The secret with Venice, in our opinion, is to try and avoid the main thoroughfare that everyone walks on to get through the city, and instead to escape into the maze of passageways that thread through the city. Since its surrounded by water, you can’t really get lost, at least not for long. It’s a wonderful way to discover everything the city has to offer.

Of course, there are a number of sights that you pretty much have to see during your time in the city. Our suggestion for your two days in Venice would like something like the following.

What to Do in Venice

Start your day off by visiting St. Mark’s Square, or the Piazza San Marco. This is the central square in the city, and is surrounded by a number of important buildings, including the Doge’s Palace, the Basilica di San Marco, and the Campanile di San Marco.

The Basilica di San Marco is a beautiful basilica which is free to visit and has spectacular interior decorations. It is very popular, so there is usually a line, especially in the summer months. You can skip this line by paying €3 on the official website for a skip the line ticket.

I can also highly recommend taking the trip to the top of the Campanile di San Marco. This is a large bell tower and the highest building in Venice, from which you get a fantastic view of the surrounding city and lagoon.

The Doge’s Palace is another worthy location for your first day in Venice. This was the seat of power of the Doge, the title given to the ruler of the Venetian Republic back when Venice was a sovereign state. Today, it’s a museum, and a good place to both see art and learn about the history of the city.

If you plan to visit, and also to take a gondola ride, consider investing in a Venice Pass for your time in the city which includes a shared gondola ride, admission to the Doge’s Palace and an audio guide to the city.

Depending on your interests, you might also want to visit one or more of the other museums around St Mark’s Square, which include the Correr Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Biblioteca Marciana.

Like the Doge’s Palace these museums have an entry fee.

I can also recommend taking the time to read our guide to visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace for more information on visiting these two popular attractions. We also provide tips on tours and how to see the attractions with fewer crowds.

Having explored St. Mark’s Square and surrounding attractions (don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs coming out of the Doge’s Palace), it’s time to see some more of Venice’s highlights. Some of our favourite locations to wander to include the Ponte dell’Accademia for a wonderful view of the Grand Canal, as well as the Rialto Bridge.

You also really can’t visit Venice without going on the water in some form of vessel. Obviously, a gondola ride is the most logical option.

These come in a variety of options. A private gondola ride like this is going to be the most expensive and romantic option. Be aware that prices are set by the city for Gondola rides, and they depend on factors like duration and time of day. Expect to pay €80 for a 25-30 minute private tour in the day, and more at night or for a longer tour. This is not a negotiable price, so don’t try to haggle.

You can book a private gondola ride in advance, but in our experience these are much more expensive that just turning up. However, at busier times of year this might be worth it.

If you find the prices are a bit steep, there are some alternatives. To start with, you can book a shared gondola ride here , We took a shared gondola ride for 30 minutes as part of a city walking tour which was a good value, we specifically did this tour .

Another option if you’re not bothered about the length of the tour is to take a gondola taxi from one side of the canal to the other. This just costs a few euros. It’ll be over quickly, but as least you can tick the gondola box for a minimal fee!

Alternatively, there are water taxis, water buses, and water sightseeing tours.

We’d recommend finishing off your first day in the city by just exploring the back streets. Wandering, getting lots, and making your own discoveries is one of our favourite ways to spend an afternoon in the city.

For your second day in Venice, our suggestion is to take a boat to one of the other islands in the lagoon. Venice is the largest archipelago of islands in the lagoon, but it is by no means the only group of populated islands.

Our two favourites are the islands of Murano and Burano, both of which can be visited together on a pleasant boat trip from the city. Public water buses run between the islands on a regular basis, so you easily do this excursion on your own.

Alternatively, if you prefer a guided tour, take a look at this full Day Venice Island Boat Trip . This visits Murano and Burano, and even includes wine tasting.

Murano is famous for its glass making, with Murano glass world renowned for its quality. We love visiting the glassmakers here and watching them sculpt creations out of the hot glass. You can also pick up small souvenirs for very reasonable prices.

Burano is known for its colorful houses and laid back atmosphere. A wander among the streets here is sure to brighten your day – despite it being the end of your trip!

And that’s it – your 10 days Italy itinerary is done! We hope you found it useful. Now, let’s look at some tips on where to stay in Venice before moving on to lots of practical information to help you plan your trip.

Where to Stay in Venice

Venice is primarily a tourism destination, and as such there’s no shortage of places to stay. Here’s a selection to choose from to give you a starting point.

Venezia Naturalmente – this centrally located well rated hostel / guesthouse offers dormitory accommodation just five minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square. There’s also a communal kitchen and Wifi.
Combo Venezia – found in a renovated 12th century monastery, this is a great value hostel featuring both shared and private rooms. There’s a kitchen, on-site bar and restaurant, and it’s 10 minutes walk from the Rialto bridge.
Casa Cosmo – a great value well rated budget option, five minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Rooms are air conditioned and are en-suite
B&B Bloom Settimo Cielo – A highly rated and good value B&B breakfast, 10 minutes from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Individually designed rooms have en-suite facilities, and there’s a rooftop terrace
Leon Bianco on the Grand Canal – this historic property with Grand Canal views is where we stayed for our wedding ceremony in Venice. The views are fantastic, and it’s amazing value for the location
Ruzzini Palace Hotel – a centrally located and very well reviewed 4* hotel, just ten minutes walk from the Rialto bridge and other attractions.
Hotel Saturnia & International – a lovely 4* hotel just moments from Saint Mark’s Square, this turn of the century hotel offers en-suite rooms, a terrace with views, and an on-site restaurant.
Baglioni Hotel Luna – just 100 yards from St. Mark’s Square, this is a fantastic 5* property with wonderful reviews. Rooms feature antique furniture, Murano glass chandeliers and marble bathrooms. A wonderful high end option for Venice.
The Gritti Palace – if you’re after a luxury 5* hotel in Venice, this hotel should definitely be on your shortlist. Just 550 yards from St. Marks’ Square, this is one of the most famous hotels in Venice.

We hope this helps you plan your accommodation in Venice. That brings us to the end of the itinerary section of our Italy itinerary! Now let’s go over some practical information for your trip.

10 Day Italy Itinerary Map

To help you visualise this itinerary for 10 days in Italy we’ve put together the below map. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

How to Get Around Italy

There are a number of options for getting around Italy. These include the train, long distance bus, or car. You can also try to find a tour the goes to the locations you’re interested in visiting if you don’t want to plan your own transport. Here’s a quick guide to the main options for getting around Italy.

Italy has an extensive rail network which originally dates from 1839. Today, there are over 15,000 miles of active railway, which includes high speed lines where the trains run at up to 190mph. These high speed lines link major cities in Italy, including Rome, Florence, Bologna, Milan and Venice, and are operated by Trenitalia and NTV.

For this itinerary, we recommend taking the direct high speed trains between the cities to make the most of your time. High speed trains are comfortable, usually offering reclining seats, free WiFi, and electrical sockets.

The high speed trains have different names, but include “Le Frecce” trains operated by Trenitalia which are, in order of speed the Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, & the Frecciabianca trains. The other high speed operator is NTV, who operate Italo trains.

I mention the train names because when you book tickets, these train names are usually displayed so you know you are buying the high speed services. Tickets come with a seat reservation, which is mandatory on these trains.

You can check times and prices for trains across Italy, as well as buy tickets, online here . We recommend booking in advance so as to be sure to get a ticket for the train you want, and also to get the best price.

As of time of writing there are five major bus companies in Italy, which offer buses between the major cities in Italy, as well as to other European countries. The long distance bus services in Italy tend to feature comfortable and modern vehicles, often featuring WiFi and electrical sockets.

Of course, a bus isn’t a train, and it can’t hurtle through the countryside at 300km/h. Constrained by the rules of the road, bus journeys are generally longer affair than train journeys, usually taking at least twice as long. On the flip side, they do also tend to be cheaper, so if you are on more of a budget, they are a great option.

You can check times and prices for buses across Italy, comparing all the major carriers for the best price, online here with trainline , and here with BusBud . You can also check directly with FlixBus here .

We’ve hired a car and driven in Italy a number of times, and it is certainly an excellent way to get around. However, it is best suited for exploration a little more off the beaten path, when you want to visit towns, villages, and rural regions that are not so well connected by the public transport routes.

We don’t really recommend it if you plan to follow this itinerary or one similar to it. Train travel between the cities in Italy is quick and easy, there is no need for a car within the cities as you can get around on foot, by public transit, or taxi, parking can be difficult and expensive, and many areas of the historic cities are pedestrian only.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that the main fast roads in Italy which link the major cities (the autostrade) have tolls on them, which can significantly increase the cost of driving.

If you do want to travel by car in Italy, you can compare deals and book online here .

You can also book private hire transport between most of the major cities as well, although this is quite an expensive option for the longer journeys.

If you love the idea of travelling in Italy but don’t want to plan out all the logistics of transport, accommodation and sight-seeing, then you might consider a tour.

Tours usually handle all those issues, plus you get to travel with a group who you can get to know.

Of course, it’s hard to find a tour that mirrors our itinerary exactly; however, here are some great options you might consider.

This 8 day tour of Italy has stops including Rome, Venice, Lake Garda, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Pisa
This 12 day tour of Italy includes Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Luca and Pisa.
This 14 day tour with G Adventures includes Venice, the Italian lakes, Florence, Pisa, Siena, Cinque Terre and Rome. This is quite close to our itinerary, with a few extra stops and days

You can see many more tour options for Italy here .

For our itinerary, our suggestion is to use the train – these are regular, inexpensive and fast, especially between major towns and cities.

If you are on a strict budget and don’t mind taking a bit longer to get between locations, buses are you next best option.

If you don’t want to do much planning at all, then consider one of the tours we’ve suggested instead!

When to Visit Italy

Italy is popular as a year round destination. Our favourite times to visit are definitely in the Spring months of April and May or in the autumn months of September and October. At this time of year it is usually still warm enough for comfortable sightseeing, but not too crowded.

The peak months of July and August are very popular with visitors, meaning you can expect larger crowds and longer queues, particularly at the most popular attractions. If you’re visiting at this time of year, you absolutely need to book your skip the line tickets well in advance for any attraction you really want to see.

Also be aware that it can get very hot in Italy in summer, so be prepared for hot temperatures. Also be aware that many churches have strict dress codes, so even when it’s hot you need to consider your attire carefully. Bringing along a lightweight scarf or travel wrap can be a good idea.

The winter months are also a good time to visit Italy, even if it is cooler. Expect fewer people and less lines at attractions. You could also consider heading north from Milan and taking a ski trip in the Italian Alps!

Tips for Visiting Italy

Italy is a relatively easy and safe country to travel in. However, to help you with your planning we wanted to share some tips based on our time in the country. These should help you make the most of your trip.

Opening Times

As with any destination where you plan on visiting attractions, it’s really important to check opening times and days well in advance. For example, the Vatican is closed most Sundays, so if your visit to Rome is on a Sunday, you will need to plan for this in advance to avoid disappointment.

Safety: In our many visits to Italy we’ve never had any safety problems. Just be aware that as with most popular tourist destinations, pickpocketing can be an issue, especially in crowded tourist areas. As always, practice basic safety precautions. Keep valuables concealed, don’t carry large quantities of cash, only use official taxis and so on.

Power in Italy

Electricity in Italy is of the 220v standard, with the 2 pin European style plug. Travellers from countries like the UK and the USA will need a travel adapter like this.

US travellers will also need to check their equipment supports the 220v standard – it will be written clearly on the power adapter.

See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

Currency in Italy

Italy is a part of the Eurozone, meaning the currency is the Euro. You can get these from ATM’s, banks, and currency exchanges, although credit cards are of course widely accepted.

We suggest using a credit card where you can – just ensure it has no foreign currency transaction fee. But we always recommend having a bit of cash on you.

Internet in Italy

Internet access is widely available in the form of WiFi across Italy. You’ll usually find it in hotels and coffee shops, and also usually on buses and trains between the cities.

If you have an unlocked phone you can also pick up a local SIM cards. For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options for you.

Drinking Water in Italy

The tap water in Italy is safe to drink (unless posted otherwise), although many locals prefer the taste of bottled water. You can also drink the water that comes out of the taps in the fountains, so just carry a drinking water bottle with you and hydrate as you go.

If you don’t like the taste, we recommend using a water bottle with a filter like the LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle which should improve the taste and alleviate any safety concerns. You can read more about safe drinking water in our guide to safe drinking water when traveling .

What to Wear in Italy

Many of the attractions in Rome are holy places, and you need to be dressed appropriately. There are big signs up explaining what you should wear, but generally, you need to have clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.

This can be an issue with warm weather clothing choices, particularly in summer, so we advise that if you choose to wear tank tops or shorts to keep items to cover your shoulders and knees with you like shawls, scarfs, long skirts, or pants that convert into shorts.

Women can take a look at Jess’s travel wrap guide and best scarves for travel for ideas.

There are 6 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

29th March 2022 at 6:00 pm

Your travel guides are so helpful! I’m currently planning a trip to Milan, Venice, and the Italian Lakes for early May. The information you provide is well-organized, clear, and concise and will make planning the trip much easier for me. I am thinking of taking one or two of the Walks tours while my husband is attending a conference in Venice–they look like a lot of fun!

Laurence Norah says

29th March 2022 at 6:24 pm

Thanks so much for your kind comment, it is much appreciated! It sounds like you have a fantastic trip coming up 🙂 We have taken a lot of tours with Walks all around the world and they have always been great. I should also mention that they’ve recently partnered up with a company called Devour Tours who do primarily food based tours. They have tours in Venice as well. We haven’t personally done any of their tours yet so we haven’t included them in our content yet, but I would imagine that they are also very good given how great the Walks tours are. Anyway, just wanted to let you know if you also enjoy food based tours 🙂

Have a great time in Italy!

Kristen says

4th January 2022 at 6:52 pm

Wow nice post and so helpful info. Really enjoyed your blog as I learned more about 10-day tour in Italy. Thanks for sharing!

5th January 2022 at 12:13 pm

Thanks very much Kristen!

Ankit Acharya says

4th March 2021 at 7:38 am

Italy is Indeed a good place to visit in the world. Being a travel enthusiast I learn that Italy is a place where every city is beautiful as well as historical. Thanks for sharing this post with us.

4th March 2021 at 5:45 pm

My pleasure, thanks for popping by Ankit

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The Best 10-Day Italy Itinerary For First Timers

Looking to spend 10 days in Italy and wondering where to start….? Well, you’ve come to the right place because I’ve put together the ultimate 10-day Italy itinerary you’ll need to plan your dream vacation! I’ll go through my detailed day-to-day recommendations, amazing restautants to check out, quality day-trips to book, accommodation options, and will answer some pretty important questions about traveling around Italy!

I actually lived and worked in Italy for over two years (read my story for more info), and I’ve become quite knowledgeable about this undeniably unique country! With its important historical significance, delicious cuisine, stunning cities, epic coastlines, world-class wine, and vibrant culture – it’s safe to say that Italy is a bucket-list destination that has a little something for everyone.

While there are countless different ways to enjoy a 10-day vacation in Italy, I would say this would be the best for first-timers to the country! At the bottom of this article though, I’ll include several different substitutions, places to add, destinations you could skip, etc.

But before we start discussing some of my favorite places in the country, and everything there is to do, I want to answer some important questions that will help you plan your trip!

What is the best month to go to Italy?

What is the cheapest month to travel to Italy? How many days do you need in Italy?

These are all excellent questions, and a great starting point for this Italy itinerary trip planner! I’d have to agree with Santorini Dave, who says that “ the best time to visit Italy is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September and October) when there is nice weather, moderate temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower prices.”

July & August are super crowded all around Italy, prices for everything are much more expensive, and it’s also really hot and humid (which can make sight-seeing a dreadful experience).

I actually love recommending visit Italy during the winter period as well, because it’s a lot less flooded with tourists, there will be no waiting for any museums or attractions, and can make for a more enjoyable holiday.

In regards to timing, if you’re flying over to Europe from the U.S, I actually think a week is a bare minimum, but having 10-days or more would be best. If you’re already located in Europe, it’s super easy to just hop over on a budget airline to spend a weekend in Rome !

How do you get around Italy?

Is it cheaper to rent a car or take the train in Italy? Should you rent a car in Italy? Is driving in Italy dangerous?

From my personal experience, I wouldn’t recommend renting a car in Italy for the entire trip! While it can be really fun to rent car in Tuscany to go wine-tasting at different vineyeards, or to embark on an overnight trip somewhere from Rome or Milan, having the responsibility of a car the entire 10-days in Italy will be troublesome.

Here are my main reasons why you shouldn’t rent a car in Italy:

There are speed traps on the highways, and they don’t even have to pull you over to issue you an expensive speeding fine.
Gas is pretty damn expensive in Italy! You’ll end up spending hundreds of euros on petrol getting around all these places when it’d be a lot easier to just book a train ticket.
It’s super confusing where you’re even allowed to drive! Rental cars are not allowed to drive in certain parts of Rome or Florence, and you will most likely get a ticket for driving where you’re not supposed to! This happened to me, and I’m still upset about it, lol.
Parking in Italy can be a nightmare! You’ll end up wasting so much time trying to find parking, and paying for expensive overnight parking!
The train system works great in Italy (most of the time). The high-speed network can you get places extremely fast, the online booking system works well, and it’s just a less-stressful way to explore the country.

With all that being said, I think renting a car in Italy can be fun for one or two days! It really just depends on what you want to see/ how you want to spend your 10-day vacation! I never found driving in Italy to be dangerous (contrary to popular belief), but I also think it can be a bigger headache than it should be.

The Ultimate 10 Days in Italy Itinerary

The way I’ve set up this 10-day itinerary is arriving into Rome, and departing from Milan! That can easily be reversed though, and you can begin in Milan and end in Rome. It really just depends on flight prices, and if you’re able to manage to get the multi-airport ticket (which typically isn’t too complicated). If for some reason, like you found an epic round-trip ticket to Rome, you can always book a high-speed train ticket from Milan to Rome, which completes the 360-mile (579-km) journey in 2 hours and 55 minutes!

While I’ve gone over my full-recommend day-to-day itinerary, here’s just a quick overview of the recommended route so you can start planning, booking accommodation, and locking down your vacations!

Rome (3 Nights)
Florence (3 Nights)
Venice (2 Nights)
Milan (2 Nights)

As you can see, this itinerary will focus on four of Italy’s biggest tourist destinations, which is why I think it’s perfect for first-timers to the country! Don’t worry though, because I’ve got tons of epic tips + insider information to show you some hidden gems as well! ( fernandez-vega.com )

Best Places to Stay on This 10-Day Italy Itinerary

Depending on the time of year you’re planning on traveling, I would probably be looking to book all the accommodation well in advance! Hotels do get booked up quite quickly, and you want to make sure you’re staying at decent places. I’ve put all my accommodation recommendations below for all the stops on this 10 days in Italy itinerary!

Renting an AirBNB : Starting off, I’ve become a HUGE fan of utilziing Airbnb while traveling around Europe! There’s just something so nice about renting an apartment over a hotel, and I think it can provide for a more local experience. There are some truly top-notch Airbnb’s all over Italy, and if use this link you’ll get $40+ Off Your First AIRBNB stay for each new account. If you’re traveling with friends or a significant other, you can each sign up for a new Airbnb account and keep getting that awesome discount #TravelHack

Best Places to Stay in Rome

When it comes to accommodation in Rome, I think the most important thing is to stay relatively close to Termini train station! It’s connected to both of the major metro lines in the city, there are tons of bus routes that start & end at Termini, and it’ll also be a lot easier to get from the airport, as well as get to the station for your train up to Florence.

Romantic Suite Apartment near Colosseum and the Forum – Absolutely love this affordable Airbnb!
Trevi Fountain Luxury Home (Airbnb PLUS) – Another solid Airbnb in an amazing experience!
The Hive Hotel : With it’s immaculately clean rooms and luxurious modern design, it’s no surprise that the hive is consistently reviewed as being the best value in Rome! Perfect location, tasty food, and excellent prices! Definitely, the perfect way to begin your Italian holiday!
Hotel Impero : One of the best seller hotels in Rome! It’s located walking distance from the train station, has excellent prices, and comfortable rooms. There’s a decent breakfast included, 24-hour reception, and it’s got a gorgeous furnished terrace overlooking Rome’s rooftops and the nearby Opera Theater.
Hostel Carlito : If you’re a backpacker on a tight budget in Rome and looking for a decent hostel, then this is exactly where I would stay! It’s just a 10-minute walk from the station, has clean & comfortable rooms, and is one of the most affordable dorm beds in the city!

Best Places to Stay in Florence

Spectacular Private Terrace – BOOK THIS AIRBNB. The view you get of the Duomo is spectacular, and will be a perfect way to finish your day by having a glass of wine on your terrace! Excellent reviews from over 400 happy guests!
Hotel Davanzati : Comfortable rooms, excellent location, and welcoming staff make this one of the best-valued hotels in Florence! Booking a room here won’t break the bank, but you’ll pleasantly surprised at the luxurious amenities, and top-notch service. A delicious breakfast is included, so you can fuel up on morning carbs before hitting the town to explore Florenc all day!
PLUS Florence : There’s honestly no doubt about it – this is the best hostel in Florence! I’ve stayed here on several occasions now, and it’s got everything you need for a comfy stay for backpackers and budget travelers. It also has an really awesome atmosphere, beautiful terrace views, and fun pool parties.
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze : If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury resort in Florence, then you’ve got to stay at the jaw-dropping Four Seasons! Offering a wide range of luxury rooms and suites, the Four Season is composed of two buildings: the 15th-century Palazzo della Gherardesca, and the 16th-century convent, La Villa, and these have over 4.5 4.5 hectares of peaceful gardens in between them. While it will definitely provide a super comfortable stay, it’s also one of the most expensive properties in the city!

Best Places to Stay in Venice

Since there are no taxis/ public transportation in Venice, it’s imperative to stay close to the main train station! Half the fun of Venice is walking around the canals and exploring the city on feet, so it’s best to just stay close to the station, which will make your arrival/ departure much easier!

Luxury Palazzo Costa Vendramin – This would be my top pick for an Airbnb in Venice! It’s only 3-bridges away from the station, has excellent reviews, and isn’t too expensive!
Ca ‘Corte Bonazza – While this isn’t too close to the station, it would be an amazing pick for your time in Venice!
Hotel Il Moro di Venezia : Located just footsteps away from Venice Santa Lucia Station, this well-reviewed and priced hotel will be a great home-base for your two-day stay in the city! Delicious free breakfast included to save some cash, comfortable and clean rooms, and helpful staff to assist with all your Venice travel questions!
Ostello Domus Civica : With private twin rooms & affordable dorm beds available and a great location near the train station, this is a top pick for budget travelers in Venice! While it may have basic rooms, it’s perfect for exploring Venice with Piazzale Roma, Ca’ Pesaro and the Ponte della Costituzione within a ten-minute walk.
Santa Croce Boutique Hotel : This 5-Star Hotel will provide an outstanding level of luxury for the fraction of the price (in comparison to the other luxury properties in Venice). You’ll love the location, value, and service!

Best Places to Stay in Milan

MILAN CENTER: PREGIOUS APARTMENT : Beautiful apartment right in the center of it all. It’s affordable, and will be a great base for your time in Milan!
The Westin Palace : I love staying at Westin properties whenever I get the chance! They’re known for their “heavenly beds”, immaculate rooms, and outstanding health-focused services! The Milan Palace features a red marble façade, and a rooftop terrace with stunning city views!
Windsor Hotel Milano : This 4-Star property is simply elegant, perfectly located, and will provide a super comfortable stay for your time in Milan! It’s well connected to public transportation, has a fantastic restaurant inside, and the staff are super friendly and can help with any Milan travel questions!
Milano Ostello : For backpackers in MIlan, this is exactly where you want to stay! It’s well located in a safe area, the rooms are clean, and the staff is helpful! The rooms are separated by gender, the prices are the best in the city for quality hostels, and it’s close to a subway station.

Where to Stay in Milan - 10 Days in italy

Arrival at the Rome Fiumicino Airport | Italy Itinerary Trip Planer

The international airport in Rome is located about an hour’s drive outside the city, but is also well connected via train and bus as well. There really are a bunch of different options for how to get into the city center, and it just depends on your budget/ travel style.

“ Book a Train From Fiumicino Aeroporto to Roma Termini ” – This is always my preferred way to get to Rome! It only takes about 30 minutes, and tickets should only cost 8 Euro. You can easily book it at the train station, but it’s actually cheaper if you book it online several days in advance. The website is easy to use, and you can browse train times and departures. Just make sure you book a direct train, as it’ll be the easiest.

Private Arrival Transfer: Rome Fiumicino Airport to Hotel : If you’re traveling with a group and have a lot of luggage, this Viator deal is going to be your best bet! It’s budget-friendly, and they’ll drop you off at your hotel (which can come in handy if you decide to stay at a Rome hotel that isn’t close to

Fiumicino Airport: Bus to/from Rome City Center Termini : If you’re looking for the cheapest option, then booking a bus ticket is it! Tickets are cheap, and you can book them at the airport for the same price. I only really recommend this option if you’re on a super tight budget, and don’t want to spend any more money than you need. The journey will take about an hour but can take much longer if there’s traffic (which is quite common in Rome).

How to get from the Rome Airport to the City - 10 Days in Italy Travel Itinerary

Italy Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Rome

How many days in Rome are enough?

The truth is, you could spend all 10 days of your Italian vacation in Rome, and still wouldn’t even scratch the surface! It’s one of the most fascinating cities you’ll ever visit, and I guarantee you’ll fall in love with!

Rome is one of my favorite cities in the world, and there’s a big part of me that thinks I’ll find myself living there again someday in the future!

Here are some fun things to do for your first day on this 10-Day Italy Itinerary

Hopefully, you got plenty of sleep on the plane and aren’t experiencing too much jetlag, because you’re going to want to soak up as much of these Rome attractions!

Drink a Bottle of Wine at the Trevi Fountain at night
Visit the Spanish Steps
Take a stroll in Villa Borghese
Walkthrough Piazza Popolo
Visit Piazza Navona
Grab a Drink in Campo di Fiori
Walk along the Tiber River at Dusk
Photograph Castello d’Angelo
Visit Victor Emmanuel II Monument (The Wedding Cake)
Try the Gelato at Ciampini

I’ve already written quite a bit about a lot of these things, so check out my articles “ How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Rome ” and “ 10 Things to do in Rome ” for a bit more information!

Italy Itinerary Day 2: Exploring the Vatican & Pantheon Dinner

Now you may not know this, but Vatican City is actually the smallest country in the world! It’s an absolute must for any first timer’s visit to Italy, and you will honestly be amazed as you step foot into St. Peter’s Square!

If you don’t make reservations or purchase skip-the-line tickets, I’d recommend you arrive really early in the morning, or else you might find yourself waiting in line for quite a while! There are tons of incredible tours you can choose for people who want to learn all about the history, fun facts, and religious significance!

Price: $76.17 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )
Price: $32.08 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Dinner at the Pantheon & Drinks in Campo Di Fiori

After a day of exploring the Vatican, I’d recommend walking back to the city center, enjoy some of the views of the river, and relax at the hotel for a bit.

I don’t want to pack this day with too much info, but I’d recommend heading over to the Pantheon for dinner! It’s my personal favorite landmark in Rome, and I used to walk by it every night when I lived there!

There are several really awesome yet touristy restaurants in the “ Piazza della Rotonda”, and it’s one of my favorite things to recommend people visiting Rome! Sometimes there are opera singers who will perform, and the Italian vibes are remarkable!

After a lovely dinner experience on one of the restaurants that have terrace dining overlooking the Pantheon, make the short walk over to one of the main nightlife areas in Rome, Campo di Fiori! There are tons of different bars to choose from, but you could always just buy a few Peroni’s at one of the nearby markets, and drink beer in the square!

Italy Itinerary Day 3: Colosseum & Roman Forum

For your last day in Rome, YOU must book a tour through the Colosseum and Roman Forum! The Colosseum needs no introduction, as it’s one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the entire world. Even if you’re not a big history buff, I’d recommend taking a tour because the history is absolutely fascinating, and will surely impress just about everyone! It can get extremely busy during the busy summer season, so check out a few of these tours that include priority access.

Price: $22.68 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )
Price: $59.57 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Travel Tip: If you are traveling during summer, try to go as early as possible to avoid walking around during the hot Roman heat!

Italy Itinerary Day 4: Train to Florence & Piazzale Michaelangelo

I hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Rome, but your Italian vacation continues in one of the most charming cities in all of Europe! Florence is the city I’ve lived in the longest (outside of the U.S), and will always be a home to me!

The best and easiest way to get from Rome to Florence is by train. The journey only takes about 85-minutes, and it’s really cheap! Just make sure you book-in-advance, as tickets are MUCH cheaper!

Book a train ticket from Roma Termini – Florence Santa Maria Novella

How to get from Rome to Florence - Italy Itinerary

Now, for your first day in Florence, just get checked into your hostel, explore a bit of the city, and then head up to Piazzale Michaelangelo for the sunset! It’s probably my favorite thing to do in Florence!

The area is always really lively with people having picnics, enjoying bottles of wine, and listening to live musicians (who are pretty much always playing every night).

Piazzale Michaelangelo provides the best panoramic views of the city, and it’ll give you a much better appreciation for the city you’ll be exploring over the next couple of days! “ “It may be a classic tourist stop, but it never fails to capture the heart and imagination of those who follow the path to the very top.”

Florence Travel Tip: Head to a grocery store before making the walk up to Piazzale Michaelangelo, and buy some bread, cheese, cured meats, wine, and some cups! It’s truly a Florence must-do!!

Piazzale Michaelangelo Sunset - Italy Itinerary 10 Days

Italy Itinerary Day 5: Exploring Florence Museums, Pizza & Bars

This will be your only full day to explore Florence, but luckily that’s all you REALLY need. Florence is a relatively small city, and you can actually walk around all the major highlights in one day quite easily.

The Best Things To Do in Florence, Italy

Visit the famous Duomo and climb the 463 steps to the top!
Explore the world-famous Uffizi Gallery
Admire Michelangelo’s David sculpture at the Accademia Gallery!
Walk across the Ponte Vecchio
Explore the Pitti Palace & The Boboli Gardens
Take some photos in the Piazza della Signoria
Check out the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
Shop through the Lorenzo Leather Market

I’ve written a bit about Florence as well, so go read through my articles “ 10 Amazing Things to do in Florence ” and “ 5 Must-Try Places to Eat in Florence “

Italy Itinerary Day 6: Tuscany Day Trip

While I’m sure by now you’ve fallen in love with Florence, taking a day-trip to explore the Tuscan countryside is definitely a must! The entire region of Tuscany is absolutely stunning, with its medieval towns, rolling green hills, and incredible wine tasting opportunities – and Florence is the perfect jumping-off point to explore a lot of different places!

Some Day Trips from Florence To Consider

Siena
San Gimignano
Volterra
Chianti
Porto Ercole

You could quite easily rent a car for the day and drive to the nearby cities, or you can book one of the many tour companies that offer day trips from Florence! Here are a couple solid options:

Price: $68.21 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Tuscan 1 Day: Siena, San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, Chianti : “Enjoy an unforgettable day in Tuscany! Visit the charming medieval towns of Siena, San Gimignano and Monteriggioni and discover the beauty of the Chianti countryside landscape. This tour features delicious local wines.”

Price: $71.62 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Italy Itinerary Day 7: Venice Canals & Gondola Rides

Wake up bright and early, head to the train station, and get on board, because it’s time to head to the “City of Canals”! Venice is truly a dream destination, and will

Florence to Venice Train Time: 2 hours

BOOK YOUR FLORENCE TO VENICE TRAIN JOURNEY

The Best Things To Do in Venice

Venice is a city that just visiting alone is an adventure of its own! You’ll love getting lost among the canals, watching gondolas navigate through the tiny alleys, and will be left mesmerized by this romantic destination.

While it’s not the easiest city to navigate, you should have no problem hitting up all the major Venice attractions if you get an early start to the day!

Visit St. Mark’s Square & Basilica
Explore Doge’s Palace
Check out the view from Rialto Bridge
Browse and shop through all the Venice Carnival theme shops
Visit the Grand Canal
Take a Gondola Ride
Visit the Bridge of Sighs
Explore the Gallerie dell’Accademia
Ride a Vaporetto through the Grand Canal
Photograph the stunning “ Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta “
Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia

If you’re traveling during peak season, then I’d recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket for Venice! It’s a crowded city, and you don’t want to wait in line for a couple hours!

Price: $31.83 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

St Marks Square - Venice, Italy 10 Day Itinerary

Italy Itinerary Day 8: Murano & Burano Island Day Trip

Located just a short boat road away from Venice are a bunch of different islands that are colorful, funky, and definitely worth the visit! Famous for photography, glass blowing, museums, and architecture – a visit to Murano & Burano will certainly impress!

Check out this guide called SELF-GUIDED TOUR TO MURANO AND BURANO for a detailed run-down of how to do this trip without a guid, or book yourself on this highly-reviewed island hopping tour!

Price: $22.74
Duration: 4-5 Hours ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

Murano and Burano - Venice Day Trips - Italy Itinerary

Check out this fun Youtube for some more travel information and inspiration! The towns are absolutely gorgeous, and you’ve got to spend a day exploring and photographing their beauty!

Italy ItineraryDay 9: Marvelous Milan in One Day

Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel, make the short walk to the Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia, and hop on board your final train ride in Italy!

Venice to Milan Train Time: 2h 10 minutes

BOOK YOUR VENICE TO MILAN TRAIN JOURNEY

Best Things to do in Milan

Visit the Milan Cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
Do some shopping in the Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Explore the Castello Sforzesco for a couple hour
Feast on Gelato
Browse the artwork in the Pinacoteca di Brera
Enjoy the Roman design of the Sant Ambrogio
Get lost in the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
La Scala Opera
Take an Italian Food Tour or Cooking Class
Walk down the Naviglio Grande

Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

If you’re traveling during a busy season, I’d recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket for the popular Milan Cathedral! It can get super busy, and you don’t want to waste any time waiting in lines!

Price: $30.69 ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

11 FREE/CHEAP Things To Do In MILAN | Italy On A Budget Travel Guide 🇮🇹

Italy Itinerary Day 10: Lake Como Day Trip

Last, but certainly not least, if you’ve got the time I’d definitely recommend a day-trip out to the wonderful Lake Como! It’s one of Northern Italy’s best attractions and is famous for its stunning scenery with the backdrop of the foothills of the Alps!

It’d be a great idea to rent a car and make the 90 minute drive to Lake Como yourself, or you can book one of the many day-trips to Lake Como from Milan! I’d personally recommend this one as it’s a best-seller, comes highly reviewed, and is pretty budget-friendly!

Price: $96.63
Duration: 10.5 Hours ( Read Reviews & Check Availability )

🍷 Visit North Italy in 2023: Lake Como in 4K | How To Spend A Day in Como

How Much Does a 10 Day Trip to Italy Cost…?

Now, this really just depends on your travel style! Each of the train journeys will cost you around 25-50 euro depending on when you book them, accommodation can be anywhere between 20-200 euro per night, and meals will cost between 7-30 euro depending on where you at!

There are tons of ways to keep costs down while traveling around Italy! For starters, focus on walking around the cities while you’re sightseeing! I’ve found that taxi and uber rides can get pretty ridiculous, so I’d recommend booking accommodation near the train stations, and keeping transportation costs to a minium.

Also, be sure to shop around a bit for tours and see what you think is the best fit for your budget! Many times, you can find day-trip itinerary you’d like and be able to do it on your own for a lot cheaper!

10 Days in Italy Itinerary Substitutions

So I think that this 10-Day Italy Itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors to the country, and for people who want to see all the major destinations! While it does move relatively quickly and is jam-packed every day – I do think it’ll be an amazing vacation that you’ll never forget!

Here are a few other popular destinations in the country that you could look into adding into your Italian itinerary!

Cinque Terre: Translated into “five towns”, this popular seaside destination is the most popular destination along the Italian Riviera! Famous for it’s colorful towns built along the coast, the fantastic hiking trail connecting them, and the unbelievably tasty Pesto! You could easily skip Venice & Milan, to add Genoa & Cinque Terre to your itinerary!
Amalfi Coast: Definitely one of my favorite areas in the entire world, the Amalfi Coast is truly paradise. Soak up the sun on one of the stunning Positano beach, take a sailing trip around the island of Capri, and explore the remains of Pompei! While it gets very busy and rather expensive during peak season, it definitely deserves a place on your Italian bucket list. To do this itinerary, I’d simply do Rome, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast for 10 days in ITaly.
The Dolomites: If mountains and adventure is more your fortay, then spend the majority of your time in the Italian Alps! With its rugged mountain ranges, scenic lakes, and unbeatables hiking trails – you’ll truly be blown away by the views up here. To add the Dolomites to your Italy itinerary, I’d fly into Milan, and then go to Lake Como, Dolomites, Venice, and back to Milan.

Me as a tour guide in the Amalfi Coast in 2012

Am I Missing Anything from my 10-Day Italy Itinerary?

If you’ve been to Italy recently and think I need to add any specific tours, hotels, activities, cities, or restaurants- please feel free to reach out to me and let me know!

I think I put together an epic itinerary for 10 days in Italy, but I’d love to keep this as up-to-date as possible! I’m actually planning a return trip myself, and can’t wait to explore more of one of my favorite countries in Europe!

Planning a trip to Italy/ Europe…?

My website is filled with helpful articles, destination guides, and lots of travel inspiration! Check out a few of my favorite articles below, and let the travel planning commence!

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How to plan your first trip to Italy - What you need to know

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How to Spend 10 Days in Italy: Itinerary Ideas for Every Interest & Season

Discover a dozen ways to spend 10 days in Italy. Itinerary inspiration for your next Italian adventure.

From foodie quests to cultural immersions and outdoor adventures, self-guided road trips and itineraries that are easy to accomplish travelling by bus or train – Italy has something for everyone.

This list of Italy itinerary ideas ranges from the heavy hitters such as Rome, Venice and Sicily to hidden gems and alternative coastal destinations.

With something for every interest and season, discover everything from summer island escapes to winter city breaks.

Also see: 10 days in Europe by train – multi-country itinerary ideas for Italy and beyond

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.

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).

A dozen ways to spend 10 days in Italy: Italy Itinerary inspiration

The big three: 10 days in venice, florence & rome.

Venice, Florence and Rome by night, three of the top places to visit in 10 days in Italy.

Marvel at the beauty of Venice, with its iconic canals, bridges, and historic buildings
Discover the art and architecture of Florence, including the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio
Explore the history and culture of Rome, including the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain
Indulge in delicious Italian cuisine, from Venetian cicchetti to Tuscan steak and Roman pizza

Begin your journey in Venice, a city renowned for its iconic canals, historic architecture, and delicious food. Take a gondola ride, visit the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, and explore the Rialto Market for some of the freshest seafood and produce in Italy.

Sample the famous Venetian cicchetti, small plates of delicious food often enjoyed with a glass of local wine. Stay at the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice , especially if you are visiting Venice with kids , as it offers a rooftop pool, a spa, and a kids club.

After three days in Venice, travel by train to Florence , the birthplace of the Renaissance and a city filled with art, architecture, and history. Visit the iconic Duomo, climb the tower for stunning views of the city, and explore the Uffizi Gallery to see some of the world’s most famous works of art.

Sample some of Florence’s famous foods such as bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) and lampredotto (a type of tripe sandwich), and indulge in gelato from one of the city’s many gelaterias. Stay in Villa Cora , a charming villa with an outdoor pool 2 kilometres from the centre of Florence.

Continue your journey to Rome by train, the eternal city filled with history and culture. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum to learn about ancient Rome, and explore Vatican City to see some of the world’s most important artworks, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, and indulge in some of Rome’s iconic cuisine, such as cacio e pepe (pasta with Pecorino and black pepper) and pasta alla carbonara (pasta with eggs and Pecorino). Stay in Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá , a luxurious 5-star hotel with a pool in central Rome.

Travel by train between Venice, Florence, and Rome, which are all connected by Italy’s excellent rail network. Within each city, you can explore on foot or use public transportation (buses and trams).

When to go: The ideal time for this itinerary is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. There are several festivals and events that you can plan around, such as the Rome Film Festival in October.

Recommended by Jo from World Wild Schooling

Italian Island Adventure: 10-day Road Trip in Sicily

Three iconic destinations to visit in Sicily in 10 days - Syracuse, the Valley of the Temples and Palermo.

Hike to the top of Mount Etna
Explore the old city of Ortigia, Syracuse
Wander the ancient Greek and Roman ruins at the Valley of the Temples
Eat delicious Sicilian food in the markets of Palermo

Start your 10-day Sicily road trip by flying into Catania, renting a car at the airport, and driving to Taormina where you will spend your first three nights. Take one day to explore the charming seaside town of Taormina and another day to visit Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.

On day three, head to Catania, Sicily’s second city, then drive on to Syracuse where you’ll spend the next three nights. In Syracuse, you’ll have a chance to explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park and walk the old streets of Ortigia.

On day five, take a day trip to Noto and enjoy the stunning baroque architecture, then on day six, check out of your Syracuse hotel and drive to see the Mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale. From the mosaics, make your way to Agrigento for the night.

Day seven serves up another Sicily highlight as you explore the Valley of the Temples. In the afternoon, drive on to Palermo where you’ll spend the remainder of your trip.

On your first day in Palermo, visit the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel, resplendent in gilded Byzantine tiles. Take your time to wander through Palermo, visiting the many artisan boutiques and the city’s trio of churches: The Church of San Cataldo, Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, and the Chiesa di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria.

For your second day in Palermo, consider a city walking tour or a tour of the Ballaro Market. This market is also a great place to grab a delicious lunch of Palermo specialties, such as a spleen sandwich. End the day with a trip to the Palermo Cathedral.

On your last day of this Sicily road trip, finish in Palermo with a tour of the Massimo Theater and a visit to the Inquisition Museum. Then it’s time to head home, flying out from the Palermo airport.

When to go: The best time to visit Sicily is during the fall or spring when temperatures are cooler and crowds are smaller. The summer months are crowded and extremely hot. Winter can also be a good time to visit Sicily, although many sights close for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Recommended by Tamar from World by Weekend

Culture, Cuisine & The Coast: 10 Days in Emilia-Romagna

Mosaics in Ravenna, a hilltop village in Emilia-Romagna and a traditional ham.

Sample Modena’s award-winning balsamic vinegar, Bologna’s rich ragù (it’s never bolognese here), and Parma’s prosciutto
Discover the mesmerising mosaics in Ravenna
Explore the medieval core of San Marino, one of Europe’s smallest and prettiest micro-states

On this 10-day Italy itinerary across the Emilia Romagna region, you’ll flit between five impressive UNESCO-listed attractions and savour the region’s revered gastronomy.

Start your trip with three nights in Bologna, the regional capital. Già Baglioni is a fab heritage stay. Spend two slow-paced days marvelling at the city’s sights such as the iconic Two Towers (book tickets to climb), Bologna University, the oldest in the Western world, and the UNESCO-listed porticoes leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

Sample traditional dishes at Trattoria Anna Maria – the ragü is sublime – or more modern takes at out-of-city FICO (Eatly) , a vast foodie theme park. If you’ve still got an appetite, book in for one of these Bologna foodie tours and gorge on more delicacies.

For your third day in the city, combine two of the most popular day trips from Bologna into a gourmet outing by train. Start with a balsamic vinegar tasting in Modena, then visit Parma to join a Parmigiano Reggiano factory tour and sample local prosciutto

On day four, head to medieval Brisighella (one hour drive, 90 minutes by train and bus), where a laid-back day of wooden-beamed streets and enchanting countryside views from clock towers and castles awaits. Spend the night at the charming Hotel La Rocca , or continue to coastal Rimini.

Day five can be spent tanning on Rimini’s Adriatic Coast, known for lively beach clubs and parasols, or seeking out the city’s history. The Malatestiano Temple (Rimini’s hulking cathedral) and the 2nd-century Domus del Chirugo archaeological site are worth a visit. For lunch, try Brodetto, a delicious fish stew.

On day six, start early with a short ‘international’ 40-minute drive or direct bus to San Marino. Clinging to the slopes of Mount Titano, the natural setting is as splendid as the medieval capital’s core. Stated to be the world’s oldest republic – founded in the 4th century – a handful of quirky museums tell its stories. Stay overnight ( Hotel Titano is characterful) for a sublime crowd-free sunset and Sammarinese cuisine dinner.

On day seven, head to Ravenna (a 90-minute drive or bus and train via Rimini) to explore the city’s eight UNESCO-listed 6th-century buildings. Don’t miss the Byzantine-style mosaics at Basilica of San Vitale or Chiesa di Sant’Eufemia, nor the domed magic of Battistero Neoniano. Book a central heritage hotel for two nights, such as Albergo Cappello , to maximise your time.

Finish up in the UNESCO-listed Renaissance city of Ferrara on day nine (70 minutes by car or train); Castello Estense and the archaeological museum are standouts. Then, the next morning, it’s a quick trip back to Bologna or Venice for onward travel.

When to go : With food being a huge focus, this itinerary works year-round, though spring and autumn are most tempting thanks to fewer crowds and milder weather. Events and festivities you could plan a visit around include San Marino’s Medieval Day, usually in late July; opera season in Bologna, which runs from October until June; or Notte Rosa, Rimini’s coastal celebration marking the arrival of summer.

Recommended by Dan from Dan Flying Solo

The Best of Southern Italy: 10 Days in Naples, Amalfi & Sorrento

Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, a 10 day holiday in Italy.

Explore the birthplace of Pizza
Visit the jet-setting island of Capri
See the picturesque seaside towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast
Visit the oldest known amphitheatre in Ancient Rome

Home to some of the most historical and ancient towns in Italy, the south offers an ideal blend of history, culture, cuisine, and picturesque locations.

Start off with two days in the bustling city of Naples . The city is well connected to the rest of the country and is easily accessible by plane, car, train, and even by ferry. Known for its edgy street life and historical attractions such as the Royal Palace of Naples and Castel dell’Ovo, you won’t run out of things to do. In-between all the exploring you must take time out to indulge in some authentic Neapolitan pizza.

On day three, take the train to Pompei Villa dei Misteri. This archeological site is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of ancient Roman daily life. Highlights of a visit include the Gladiator Barracks, the Forum Baths, and the Amphitheater.

Next up is the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. Take a bus from Naples to the town of Amalfi. From here you have the option of staying in any of the picturesque villages like Positano, Atrani, Vietri Sul Mare, and Ravello. Spend your days soaking up the sun on one of the beaches or taking a boat tour along the coast.

On day seven, continue by train to the charming coastal town of Sorrento where you get the opportunity to explore lemon groves, narrow streets, and views of Mount Vesuvius.

On day nine, Take the early morning hydrofoil to Capri from Sorrento’s port. While this glamorous island is not known for its cheap island vacations , it offers stunning natural beauty, world-class shopping, and the Blue Grotto.

Conclude this trip with a ferry ride from Capri to Naples as an excellent ending to the best of Southern Italy.

When to go : The best time to visit this region is during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October. During this time you get to experience pleasant weather with fewer crowds and minimal rain.

Recommended by Rai from A Rai of Light

Italian Outdoor Adventure: 10 Days of Hiking, Biking & Kayaking in the North

The Dolomites, Cinque Terre and Tuscany in Italy.

Experience the grandeur of the Italian Alps by hiking in the Dolomites
Hike and kayak in Cinque Terre
Bike through the Italian countryside in Tuscany

The beautiful natural areas of northern Italy can be enjoyed in a trip focused on outdoor adventure. Hiking in the Dolomites, hiking and kayaking in Cinque Terre , and biking in Tuscany all fit perfectly into a 10-day trip.

Start in Venice and take a rental car or the bus to the mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. This magnificent destination is the perfect base for day hiking trips in the Southern Dolomites.

Regional buses can drop you off and pick you up from the many trailheads nearby. For a bit more adventure, a hut to hut overnight hiking trip allows you to wake up in the heart of the Italian Alps. Huts offer delicious food and your favourite drinks. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit is a jaw-dropping loop trail around massive Dolomite peaks.

After four days of spectacular alpine beauty, head to Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera. Hiking between the five seaside villages yields vast ocean views. You’ll traipse through vineyards, old forests, and past colourful houses that cling to the cliffside trails. The train connecting the old fishing villages makes returning to your starting point easy.

To see the colourful villages by the sea, rent a kayak on the Riomaggiore waterfront. Explore caves and deserted beaches by paddling to the east of the town.

The final three days of your adventure is spent biking through the stunning scenery of Tuscany. Drive to the medieval town of Montepulciano to use as a starting point. Rent a bike here and take the scenic back roads to the historic towns of Monticchiello or Pienza, famous for its pecorino cheese. An e-bike rental will make the rolling hills easier while you guide past grape arbours and lines of cypress trees.

When to go: Early summer or fall is the best time for this itinerary, as the weather is mild and there are less people on the hiking trails.

Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The Green Heart of Italy: 10-day Road Trip Through Umbria

Umbria's countryside, with wineries and plane trees. The perfect destination for a 10 day road trip in Italy.

Wander the atmospheric streets of Assisi, following in the footsteps (literally) of visiting pilgrims
Take part in the fall wine harvest at a local vineyard
Marvel at the Marmore Waterfall en route to Spoleto, the second highest in Europe
Join an Italian cooking class and learning how to make proper pasta

Umbria is a wonderful region of Italy and perfect for an Italian road trip . Within an hour of leaving Rome, you’ll be in the luscious Umbrian landscape of olive groves, vineyards, dense forests and rolling hills.

Start in Spoleto, often overlooked in favour of its famous neighbours, and a true hidden gem. Nestled in a beautiful wooded setting, Spoleto’s independent nature has allowed it to thrive and progress as a town in its own right rather than a tourist hot spot. Here you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience than you will find in many of Italy’s more well-known tourist destinations.

Next is Assisi, the birth and final resting place of St Francis of Assisi. A beautiful medieval hill town with geranium-filled streets, charming piazzas and panoramic views, Assisi is a must-see in Umbria. Wreathed in history and religion, the magnificent Basilica di San Francesco, perched on its rocky crag, draws pilgrims and tourists from across the globe.

Move on to Perugia, the capital of Umbria known for its medieval defensive walls, ancient university and impressive Gothic cathedral. From here, it’s an easy drive south to the wine country and Orvieto, a dramatic hilltop city with a 13th century Duomo and an underground Etruscan cave network that’s over 2,500 years old.

When to go: Known as ‘il cuore verde d’Italia’, the green heart of Italy, Umbria is best visited between April and June for wildflowers, trees in bud and warming temperatures. From September to October, the countryside comes alive with the grape harvest and the bounty it brings, and food festivals are held in every town and village.

Recommended by Izzy from The Gap Decaders

Trulli & Chill: 10 Days in Puglia & the Gargano Coast

A trullo house in Puglia, the coastline and a village on the Gargano Coast in Italy.

Discover the beauty of Bari
Walk amongst the trulli houses in Alberobello
Go beach-hopping in Vieste
Spend the night in a traditional Italian farmhouse

Bari is the gateway to Puglia, served by an airport that receives plenty of flights (especially during the tourist season). Another option is to fly into a larger airport (such as Rome) and hop on a train or bus.

Plan to spend two days in the city so that you can check out both the Old Town and the New Town. The Old Town is home to beautiful churches, such as the Basilica of San Nicola and the church of San Sabino, the imposing Bari Castle, and small, narrow cobbled streets.

Its promenade, the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, stretches for about 1 km from the harbour to the Parco per Cani and is fantastic to burn off those calories after you’ve indulged in the local staples: focaccia barese and orecchiette. iH Hotels Bari Oriente is a great choice if you are looking for some pampering, which is close to the train station, the Old Town, and the beach.

On day three, plan a day trip to Alberobello . Whether you choose the bus or the train, this charming place is within easy reach of Bari. Spend your time walking among the trulli, getting lost in the alleyways, and stopping to take a lot of photos.

Make your way back to Bari and hop on a train to Foggia. Then continue by bus to Vieste. If you prefer to drive, this is the leg of the trip that would benefit most from having your own transportation.

Spend the rest of your time in Vieste. The city is small, yet there is plenty to do. And if you love spending time on the beach, you’ll be spoiled for choice. While there are plenty of camping sites tucked away in the mountains, you will want to stay close to the beach. B&B Pizzomunno e Cristalda Rooms are close to the water, right in the middle of the town, and offer great views.

Allow for a day to explore the Old Town, getting into all the nooks and crannies. Visit churches, grab some souvenirs, and stop for a pizza with a view! Especially if you visit in summer, do spend a day at the beach. Spiaggia di San Lorenzo, Spiaggia di Castello and Spiaggia di Vieste are the most popular to check out.

On day eight, it’s time for another day trip. Hop on a bus or rent a car and head to Peschici. Another charming seaside town, with gorgeous beaches, a very interesting castle, a lovely Old Town, and exquisite gelato shops! Another option for a day trip is Manfredonia. It is also home to an imposing castle and a beautiful promenade.

Spend your last day in Vieste at a farmhouse. You’ll be delighted with a (very) long lunch. Pecorino foggiano and Caciocavallo Podolico are two of the local cheeses to enjoy. Enjoy dipping freshly baked bread in the local olive oil infused with herbs. Eat your way through various seafood, pasta dishes, and sweets.

When to go: Puglia is a year-round destination. However, certain times of year offer a chance to be immersed in the local culture and traditions . Travelling around Christmas means visiting Christmas Markets and witnessing Presepi Viventi (live nativity scenes). In August and September, Vieste in Love brings a variety of performers and local artisans to Vieste’s streets. And if you want to eat a lot of focaccia, a local staple food, head to Bari in February.

Recommended by Cris from LooknWalk

Easy Italian Winter Getaway: 10 Days in Milan & Turin

Visit the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral)
Tour Turin’s UNESCO-listed royal residences of the House of Savoy
Try typical regional dishes, including Risotto alla Milanese (Lombardy) and Gnocchi al Castelmagno (Piedmont)
Enjoy local Christmastime events

Although many travellers choose to spend a short weekend in cities such as Milan and Turin, 10 days will allow you to enjoy them more slowly. Dedicate a full five days to each.

Start in Milan, the city of contrasts, where internationally famous art museums and impressive medieval cathedrals stand alongside dozens of luxury boutiques, high-end restaurants, and trendy cocktail bars.

On your first three days, focus on the city itself. Visit the awe-inspiring Duomo, one of the largest cathedrals in the world, marvel at the architecture of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, wander around the canal district Navigli, see Da Vinci’s ‘Last Supper’, and stroll through the lovely Brera neighbourhood to admire the incredible art collection at the Pinacoteca di Brera.

In December, Milan is not only beautifully decorated, but it also hosts several big Christmas markets, including one near the Duomo and another surrounding the Sforza Castle, which is also worth visiting. Be sure to buy panettone, a traditional Milanese Christmastime cake that has become popular all over Italy.

On day four, take the metro to Fiera Milano , an event venue just outside the city that hosts a huge artisan Christmas fair with thousands of stalls selling products and food from all across the globe. On day five, take a day trip by train to the lovely lakeside town of Como or book a guided tour of Lake Como.

Continue to Turin, located only a 1-hour train ride from Milan. This city feels much more authentic and much less touristy, making it an ideal destination. Being the capital city of several kingdoms ruled by the House of Savoy, including the unified Kingdom of Italy, this royal city is also a symbol of Italian liberty. The dynasty’s palaces and villas in Turin and Piedmont are listed as one UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Apart from a day trip to the Savoy’s Palace of Venaria and Castello de La Mandria, there are plenty of things to do in Turin in four days. From visiting the Palazzo Reale and the jaw-dropping Egyptian Museum to wandering Europe’s largest open-air market and exploring the iconic Mole Antonelliana building (housing the world’s tallest museum), you’ll never get bored.

Being the birthplace of solid chocolate and the aperitivo tradition, sampling sweets like gianduiotto and cremino, as well as enjoying Italian happy hour, is also a must-do.

When to go: While both Turin and Milan can be visited throughout the seasons, the festive look they wear in December, along with the Christmas markets and other events that take place, make winter a special time to visit these northern Italian cities.

Recommended by Or from My Path in the World

Secret Beaches & Pristine Parks: 10 Days in Italy on the Adriatic Coast

The mountains and waterways of the Trabocchi Coast, the perfect offbeat destination for 10 days in Italy.

Explore the Adriatic seaport of Ancona
Swim at blue flag beaches on the Trabocchi Coast
Discover Majella National Park, a hidden gem in Italy

One of the most underrated parts of Italy is the Eastern Coast or Adriatic Coast. You have surely heard of the unspoiled beaches of Puglia and the islets in the Venetian Lagoon , two very popular destinations on the Italian Adriatic coast . But I bet you don’t know the regions in between, namely Marche and Abruzzo. With a 10-day road trip, you can discover the hidden gems of the East Coast, including some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy.

Ancona is the capital of the Marche Region in Italy and is located on the Adriatic Sea. The city features a number of masterpieces of art and architecture, including the Cathedral of St. Cyriac, Mole Vanvitelliana, and Piazza del Plebiscito. Ancona also has a street art neighbourhood in the Capodimonte area, which has become famous for its murals. Despite being a port city, the sea is clean, and the city is much underrated.

Dedicate at least two days to Ancona, then head south to discover the Conero Coast in the Marche region. You will need at least three days to explore the area.

The Conero Regional Park in Le Marche is a beautiful promontory with beaches surrounded by woods and turquoise sea. The most beautiful beaches in the area include Mezzavalle Beach, Due Sorelle Beach, Urbani Beach, and Spiaggia del Frate, all of which offer spectacular sunrise views. Visitors can also explore charming villages with extraordinary sea views, such as Sirolo and Numana.

Head further south along the Adriatic Coast and arrive in Abruzzo. This region in southern Italy is famous for its genuine and flavorful food, as well as its blue-flag beaches. The Trabocchi Coast, which stretches 60 km from Ortona to Vasto, boasts 100% blue flag beaches, such as San Vito Chietino, Fossacesia Marina, and Punta Aderci Beach.

These beaches have crystal-clear waters, and the area is named after wooden pilings used by fishermen. Today, trabocchi houses mouthwatering seafood restaurants like Trabocco Punta Fornace.

The small city of Ortona is also worth visiting for its beautiful sea view and delicious gelato at Giogoloso, an excellent Sicilian gelato shop.

After visiting all these beaches, you may be craving a change of scenery. Get ready to discover one of the most off-the-beaten-path national parks in Italy, Majella National Park .

The Majella National Park in Abruzzo is just a 45-minute drive from the Trabocchi Coast and offers a cooler mountain climate for walks and hikes. Visitors can explore small mountain villages, nature walks, and hidden treasures like the Hermitages of San Bartolomeo and the Hermitage of Santo Spirito. The Orfento Valley and Cusano Waterfall are also worth a visit, with traditional mountain dishes available at Osteria del Belvedere in Roccamorice.

When to go: The best season to enjoy this trip is summer. You will find that compared to other coastal regions of Italy, the Adriatic Coast is not too crowded even in high season. I recommend starting your trip from Ancona.

Recommended by Lisa of Travel Connect Experience

Summer in Lombardy: 10 Days in Milan, Lake Como & Bergamo

The spires of Milan Cathedral, Lake Como and Bergamo.

Experience the busy fashion capital of Italy
Soak up stunning lakeside scenery in Como
Walk the charming streets of Bergamo

This 10-day Northern Italian Lombardy road trip starts in Milan and visits Lake Como before culminating in Bergamo. Spend two nights in Milan, enjoying some of the events on offer as well as the top sights to see, which include the Duomo (and rooftop!), the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Sforzesco Castle, museums, and more.

From Milan, drive up to Como and stay the night. Como is a lovely little city with a cute market, boutique shops and a funicular to Brunate for stunning views.

From here, drive to Menaggio for two nights , stopping at the many little villages along the way. A suggestion here is to visit the beautiful Villa Carlotta. Here you can also enjoy a day trip via boat to Bellagio, the famous village opposite.

From Menaggio, drive all the way up to Gera Lario and back down to Varenna. There are dozens of picturesque spots and restaurants along the way, and it’s worth stopping off even for just a coffee. The northern part of Lake Como is less touristy , perfect for those wanting to escape busy areas. Stay two nights in Varenna for some relaxation and a taste of Italian village life.

Lastly, travel to Bergamo in the south. Still within the Lombardy region, it is a great little city full of welcoming ambience, cobblestone streets and cosy restaurants for late nights out. For a bit of luxury, stay at Mercure Bergamo Centro Palazzo Dolci in the city centre.

When to go : This itinerary is to be done in either spring or summer if travelling by car. It can be done with a local bus too.

Recommended by Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Cities of Northern Italy: 10 Days in Venice, Verona & Bologna

Verona, Venice and Bologna, three beautiful cities in the north of Italy to visit in 10 days.

Explore Venice at a slow pace
Have your Romeo and Juliet moment in Verona
Take a food tour in Bologna, Italy’s foodie capital
Visit artisanal workshops to see how delicacies such as balsamic vinegar and parmigiano reggiano cheese are made

Start in Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic. You can fly into Marco Polo Airport on the mainland and then take a water taxi into the historic centre, where you will spend three days taking in sights such as the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, along with a trip to the smaller islands of Murano and Burano.

On day four, visit the historic university town of Padua, easily accessed by train if you are not driving. You can do it as a day trip from Venice to avoid moving bases too frequently. In Padua, don’t miss the Scrovegni Chapel , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next, take the train or drive to Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Wander the pretty historic centre, admire the Roman Arena, and enjoy the views from the Lamberti Tower. You can see the highlights of Verona in one busy day.

On day six, take a day trip by train to Vicenza, where you can admire the architecture of Andrea Palladio, who designed many beautiful villas as well as buildings in the historic centre.

The following day, take the train or drive to Bologna, the foodie capital of Italy, where you will base yourself for the rest of your visit. One of the best things to do in Bologna is take a food tour. Also climb to the top of the Asinelli Tower for sensational views, and walk the many porticoes.

On days eight and nine, take day trips by train to smaller cities in the region. You can visit Modena, the home of the world’s best balsamic vinegar, Parma, known for its ham and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, or Ravenna, home to fabulous Byzantine mosaics.

When to go: From a weather perspective, this itinerary is great for spring and fall, when you will also avoid the peak summer crowds.

Recommended by Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

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10 Days in Italy Itinerary: Options for the Best Trip to Italy

Last Updated on Sep 6, 2024

Traveling to Italy is on everyone’s bucket list. The good news is that Italy lives up to expectations and you can spend months traveling around Italy and still not see even the highlights.

For first-time visitors to Italy, Rome , Florence , Verona , and Venice usually make the “must-see” list, but Italy is so much more than that. With 10 days in Italy, you have just enough time to visit these three cities and add in a quick visit to a nearby destination.

Or maybe, if it’s not your first trip to Italy change it up and discover northern Italy or southern Italy.

Italy is so much more than just Rome and Venice , so if you’re planning your Italy Itinerary you want to make sure to add plenty of other beautiful places depending on interests, budget, and ages of travelers.

Every single of these proposed itineraries below has been done by me – solo, with a partner, friends, or family. I’ve spent years living in Italy and traveling around the country extensively.

If you’re traveling with kids, don’t fear – Italy is incredibly kids-friendly and all these itineraries can be manageable for all ages. In fact, we did the Southern Italy itinerary when my son was 4 weeks old.

You might think that you could add places to these itineraries, but don’t! It’s tempting to squeeze as much in as possible, but I don’t recommend adding more to this itinerary unless you have more days to spare.

You want to enjoy the places you’re seeing, sample the food, walk around, and get lost – these itineraries are already packed with activities and places to see so don’t overdo it!

Classic Italy in 10 Days Itinerary: Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice

This classic Italy itinerary includes top cities and iconic landmarks. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Italy and those short on time.

You’ll have four bases: Rome (2 nights), Tuscany (1 night), Florence (3 nights), and Venice (3 nights) on these 10 days in Italy.

If you prefer not to rent a car you can do this itinerary as well. It will extend your time sleeping in Florence – will be explained.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome
Day 2: Rome
Day 3-4: Tuscany
Day 5: Florence
Day 6: Pisa
Day 7: Cinque Terre
Day 8 Venice
Day 9: Venice
Day 10: Fly home from Venice

DAY 1 & 2 in ROME

The first day in Rome can be challenging if you arrive on a red-eye flight (most flights from North America are overnight). The good news is that you can’t be too tired because most accommodations won’t let you check in until the afternoon , so you can drop your luggage off and explore Rome while you wait.

Most people will tell you that you cannot see Rome in 1 day, I can tell you that while I highly recommend staying longer you can indeed visit some of the most important sites of Rome in 1 day .

In fact, years ago, my first time in Rome was actually on a day trip from Rimini and as a teenager. I was highly satisfied that I was able to hit lots of highlights.

I recommend starting your day at Fontana di Trevi and walking through major attractions , like Piazza Navona, until you reach the Colosseum . Just make sure you pack some comfortable (but cute) shoes !

Then head to the Vatican in the afternoon and consider having dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood. If your feet aren’t killing you by now, you can also take a street food tour of Trastevere and the Jewish Quarter to taste some suppli, pizza, and other Roman dishes.

Recommended Tours in Rome

Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour
Colosseum with underground access and Roman Forum
Take in the magnificence of the Colosseum at night
Crypts and Catacombs and the Bone Chapel

Where to Stay in Rome

The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel : With a terrace featuring views of the Pantheon , this 5-star hotel is a stone’s throw from the Pantheon and close to most attractions. The Divinity Terrace Lounge Bar is the perfect place to relax with a drink while looking out over Rome’s rooftops.

Bio Hotel Raphael – Relais & Châteaux : Luxurious rooms, stylish interiors, parquet floors, marble bathrooms, and artwork everywhere are just a few features of this 5-star bio hotel. Guests will also enjoy amazing views from the Mater Terrae terrace restaurant , and being just a short distance from Piazza Navona.

Hotel Locarno : As romantic as Rome with its 1930s interiors, the hotel Locarno has a rooftop terrace looking out at historic Roman sites . And situated just a short walk from Piazza del Popolo square, it’s the perfect base for sightseeing in Rome.

DAY 3, 4 & 5 in TUSCANY & FLORENCE

If you can, I recommend renting a car and heading to Tuscany for an overnight in a local agroturismo. I recommend renting a car from Rome because if you visit Tuscany from Florence ultimately you’ll be driving back in the direction of Rome.

A car is the best way to explore the calm corners of Tuscany.

If you don’t want to rent a car, don’t have a license, or want to stick to only trains – it’s also possible to visit Tuscany. I did it years ago before I had a license myself.

Simply take a train from Rome to Florence. Then you can hire a private driver, or you can take a tour .

Just don’t rely on public buses because the chance of being late or stranded in the middle of nowhere is basically almost 100%.

After Tuscany, you’ll drop off your car in Florence because you won’t need it again. Florence needs at least one full day to see the main sites so keep this in mind.

During the high season like summer pre-booking tickets to major attractions is highly recommended.

Recommended Tours to Tuscany

Explore Pisa, and Siena and enjoy a typical Tuscan lunch
Go wine tasting in Chianti Hills
Visit San Lorenzo’s Mercato Central and Learn Cooking at a Tuscan Farm House
Take a day trip to San Gimignano & Volterra and enjoy lunch at a Tuscan Winery
Explore the Cinque Terre towns of Manarola, Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Vernazza

Where to Stay in Florence

Hotel Bernini Palace : Set in a palatial building from the 15th century , Hotel Bernini Palace is within walking distance of Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Dante’s House, Uffizi Gallery, Strozzi Palace, and so many top attractions. Richly decorated rooms and suites feature antique furniture and Renaissance Florence décor or classic decor.

IL Tornabuoni The Unbound Collection : Sipping champagne on a rooftop bar while looking out at Florence in the evening light, what more could you ask for? Right in the heart of Florence’s fashion district , this 5-star hotel has everything – from homemade cakes for breakfast, to rare Italian wines and gourmet Tuscan cuisine for dinner. Some rooms even feature original frescoes.

Boutique Hotel del Corso : For something more pocket-friendly, stay here. Set in a 16th-century palazzo , this historic hotel building with fabulously decorated comfortable rooms is close to the center of Florence.

DAY 6 in PISA

If you’re up for an adventure on your 6th day you can take a quick train to Pisa from Florence to see the leaning tower and enjoy this cute town.

If you’re more of a hiker, then you could skip Pisa and add another day to Cinque Terre and spend the night there .

Recommended tours to Pisa

Square of Miracles, Cathedral of Pisa, and optional Leaning Tower
Half-day afternoon tour to Pisa from Florence
Square of Miracles with quick access to monuments and Leaning Tower included
Try the real Pisano flavors

DAY 7 in CINQUE TERRE

Cinque Terre is five picture-perfect towns perched along the Mediterranean coastline just waiting to be explored. You can hike between them and enjoy the views.

All you need to do is book a train to the Cinque Terre – to La Spezia and then take the local train to one of the five towns of the Cinque Terre. Alternatively, if you don’t want to venture on your own you can also take a day tour from Florence , or from La Spezia train station .

Recommended tours to Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre tour from La Spezia Train Station
Guided Cinque Terre tour from Florence with transport
Visit Cinque Terre towns by boat from La Spezia
Cinque Terre National Park with optional hike

DAY 8-9 in VENICE

Coming back from Cinque Terre you’ll most likely need to change trains in Florence again, so it will be a good half-day of travel. You’ll then arrive in Venice.

While the main attractions of Venice can easily be seen in half a day, you need to just wander around and find its hidden spots to actually enjoy the city. Stay on the main island, get lost in Venice (the best thing to do!), and see the local life when daytime tourists leave.

You can also spend the extra time by cruising out to Murano and Burano .

Recommended tours to Venice

See the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica
Visit Burano, Torcello & Murano islands by boat and learn about glassblowing
Ride a gondola while hearing the secrets of Venice
Eat your way through the streets of Venice
Discover the Old Jewish Ghetto and learn how Jewish culture influenced the city

Where to Stay in Venice

Baglioni Hotel Luna – The Leading Hotels of the World : Just a few meters from St. Mark’s Square, this elegant hotel offers views of the city’s rooftops one one side and the lagoon on the other. Plush rooms and suites at this impressive hotel feature original frescoes, Murano glass chandeliers, and antique furniture.

Hotel Torino : Pocket-friendly yet perfect, this hotel is located in a 16th-century building close to Saint Mark’s Square . Well-connected by the water bus, it’s the perfect base for touring Venice.

Hotel Ai Cavalieri di Venezia : In the heart of historic Venice just a short walk from Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and more, this hotel features luxurious and gorgeously decorated rooms with every modern amenity you may need.

Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal : Venetian decor and Murano chandeliers fill spacious rooms at this hotel overlooking the Grand Cana l. Set right outside the train station, it’s within walking distance of Campo San Polo, Grassi Palace, and many popular attractions.

Off the Path Classic Italy Itinerary: Rome, Umbria, San Marino & Bologna

This more off-the-path Italy itinerary includes lesser-visited places for those who visited the top places to see in Italy already. It’s my favorite itinerary and one I recommend to friends a lot.

You’ll have multiple bases: Umbria (2 nights), Perugia (2 nights) and Bologna (2 nights), Verona (1 night), Dolomites (2 nights) on these 10 days in Italy.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome and head to Umbria
Day 2: Orvieto
Day 3: Terme di Saturnia
Day 4: Perugia
Day 5: San Marino
Day 6: Bologna
Day 7: Verona
Day 8-9: Dolomites
Day 10: Fly home from Venice or Milan

Similar to the previous itinerary arrive in Rome and see what you might have missed on your previous trip to Italy or simply just grab a car and head to Umbria directly.

I recommend driving to Castello Orsini , about an hour from Rome Fiumicino Airport. It’s a unique castle stay in Italy with a local vibe. Makes for a unique first-night stay.

It used to be on all booking websites, but now you need to call to reserve a room .+39 077 468 3272

If it’s booked, you can always stay next door at a place that’s almost as ancient . ‘”Le pietre silenti” antica dimora del 1300’ has been around since the 1300s. The ancient exterior and the modern interior make it a great place to stay right next to Castello Orsini .

Alternatively, if you want to stay in a less “obscure” place head straight to Orvieto.

There are three places in Orvieto I recommend staying at::

Altarocca Wine Resort (adults only)
Locanda Palazzone
Podere Sette Piagge

Enjoy walking around Orvieto and if you have time stop by Civita di Bagnoreggio , as it’s so unique.

DAY 3 in Tuscan Hot Springs

From Orvieto, you’ll take an hour-long drive to Terme di Saturnia . These are gorgeous hot springs that you’ve probably seen on Instagram already . If you can, go as early and avoid weekends.

After your dip, I recommend stopping by – Abbey di San Bruzio, a fascinating and mysterious abandoned place , immersed in the countryside among secular olive trees.

If you don’t want to take a detour and go all the way to Terme di Saturnia, the closer option is Bagni San Filippo . If you feel like you haven’t explored much of Tuscany on your previous trip you’ll have a chance to do so around these hot springs.

In the evening head to Perugia for the night.

DAY 4 in PERUGIA

In Perugia, I recommend staying at Castello di Monterone .

Perugia is a cute town, famous for the annual chocolate festival to Europeans and for Amanda Knox to Americans. Don’t be afraid, Perugia is stunning!

From Perugia, you can visit Spello – another charming village.

Recommended tours around Perugia

Walking tour of Old Town Perugia
Learn to make pasta and tiramisu in a cooking class
Market tour and cooking class

DAY 5 in San Marino

From Perugia continue to San Marino . You can have the rest of the day to explore this gorgeous, underrated destination in Europe , before heading to Bologna for the night.

Note: Technically, you could drop your rental car off back in Perugia, but a car is useful for the Dolomites. You can visit the Dolomites without the car, but you will be limited only to certain places so I recommend keeping the car until your Venice or Milan departure.

Where to stay in Bologna

Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni : It’s easy to get used to your stay in this 18th-century palace, surrounded by antique furnishings, frescoes, and elegance everywhere. Enjoy regional cuisine and a range of domestic and foreign wines from the historic cellar. You won’t want to leave.

Hotel Metropolitan : A stone’s throw from Via Indipendenza and a short walk from the main square, this contemporary hotel is perfectly located for anyone wanting to visit the local attractions. The private terrace is an added plus!

Hotel San Donato : Located so close to La Macchina del Tempo and the Bologna Towers , you can actually see them while having breakfast on the rooftop. Spacious hallways, rooms with classic Italian decor, and a rich breakfast will keep you coming back.

DAY 6 in BOLOGNA

Bologna is worth spending a day at , even if it’s just for the food. It has THE best food in Italy .

DAY 7 in VERONA

From Bologna you’ll continue to Verona . Spend the day exploring the charming old town and Arena di Verona.

I highly recommend staying at Hotel Milano . You cannot beat these views from the jacuzzi.

DAY 8-9 in DOLOMITES

The first stop driving to the mountains from Verona should be Santuario Madonna della Corona, a beautiful church that literally clings to a rocky cliff . It’s easily reachable and not much hiking is required – it’s just a semi-flat short walk.

Possibilities are endless in the Dolomites. Numerous charming towns, adventurous Via Ferratas. There are hikes for all ages , but if you can do just a few things I recommend Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike and seeing Lago di Braises.

You can stay anywhere on the way in the Dolomites .

If you’re leaving through Milan you could do a quick visit to the Duomo or seeing DaVinci’s “Last Supper .

Northern Italy Itinerary: Lake Como, Dolomites, Verona & Venice

Italy itinerary of northern Italy for nature-lovers and off-the-path explorers. Recommended mostly in the summer or autumn.

You’ll have multiple bases: Milan (1 night), Como (1 night), Verona (2 nights), Dolomites (2 nights), Burano (1 night), and Venice (2 nights) on your 10 days in Italy.

Day 1: Arrive in Milan
Day 2: Lake Como
Day 3-4: Verona
Day 5-6: Dolomites
Day 7: Burano
Day 8: Venice
Day 9: Fly home from Venice

This itinerary is slightly modified from parts of the previous Italy itinerary. The only difference is adding Lake Como – full guide on where to stay and what to do where right here .

It’s also giving you more time to explore the Dolomites and do day trips from Verona .

If you’re looking for a slightly different experience than the traditional Venice, spend the night in Burano . It’s very busy during the day but after visitors leave it’s a fantastic place for a truly local experience.

Southern Italy Itinerary: Rome, Amalfi & Matera

Southern Italy itinerary for sun and beach lovers. Great for couples, families, luxury travelers and frequent visitors to Italy looking for something new . This route requires self-driving or ridiculous amounts of patience.

You’ll have multiple bases: Rome (2 nights), Sorrento (2 nights) and Amalfi Coast (2 nights), Matera (2 nights), Alberobello (1 night) on these 10 days in Italy.

Day 3: Naples
Day 4: Sorrento and Pompeii
Day 5: Amalfi Coast
Day 6: Capri
Day 7-8: Matera
Day 9: Alberobello
Day 10: Fly home from Bari

This itinerary combines the traditional Puglia itinerary with Amalfi Coast .

So those are the different options to travel classic Italy, off-the-beaten path Italy, or Northern Italy and Southern Italy separately. Which one do you plan on doing?

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I am looking to take my wife on a 30th anniversary trip. Not really interested in site seeing or touristy stops, I am looking for romance, Italian culture, and of course the food. 10 days, coast, country, city, would rather not drive any, can you suggest an itinerary?

You can shorten the “Off the Path Classic Italy Itinerary” and skip the Dolomites and spend more time in Bologna or add Lake Como if you don’t want to drive.

I am planning to go on a honeymoon trip with my wife on April 2024. This will be my first time visiting Italy. I am looking to visit new places, do some adventure activities, have romantic evenings, etc. Which itinerary would you suggest?

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Italy Trip Planning

10 days in Italy itinerary – 2 comprehensive options and maps

Last Updated on July 8, 2024 by Ingrid & Alex

Italy is such an epic destination that who wouldn’t want to see it? With breathtaking nature, history-packed cities, and delicious food from North to South, it really gets complicated when you only have 10 days in Italy .

I’ve seen so many people trying to fit it all into their Italy 10-day itinerary. Making a marathon and trying to take down most of the Italy bucket list destinations in only 10 days in Italy.

However, let me tell you a secret: I’ve been traveling to Italy for the past many years, studying and working there, and I still haven’t seen everything!

It’s no wonder Italy is one of the top-rated travel destinations in the world—there’s so much to see and do!

But when you really want to feel the authentic vibes, plan for an Italy vacation that will allow you to see less but understand more.

I’ve seen the North, the Center, and the South, and I’m here to help you choose your perfect Italy itinerary.

Read all the things to know when traveling to Italy for the first time

This post contains affiliate links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you. Read more about this on our disclosure page here .

Table of Contents

Italy 10 days itinerary

Option 1 – rome – florence ( tuscany – cinque terre) – milan (and lake como).

I would choose this option, especially when visiting Italy for the first time. Here, you’ll experience true Italy and see some of its most popular destinations.

I will go through the list with activities, the best area to stay, how to get from one place to the other, and much more. However, I encourage you to check out this Ultimate Italy Tour organized by GAdventures or the Best of Italy by Intrepid Travel .

I personally always go for such a tour that would help me win time and money in most cases since they have already established partnerships, use economies of scale, and create some economy of stress.

Days 1 – 3 Rome

Three days in Rome is such a short time, given everything the city has to offer. I’ve been in Rome for two months, and I still have things I haven’t seen or done. Oh, and I’ve gone back three times ever since.

Besides, Rome is packed with historic sites and has a lot of potential for day trips.

But when you have only 10 days in Italy and want to see as much as possible, 3 days in Rome might be a great option.

Things to do and see in 3 days in Rome

The Colosseum and Fori Imperiali . Experience walking in the footsteps of iconic historical figures. I remember seeing the Colosseum while I was working in Rome and having to wait in line for ages because I didn’t have a skip-the-line ticket. My friends who were visiting for a weekend had it and were more inspired than me. However you choose to see them, these 2 neighboring attractions are a must in Rome.
Vatican City and Museum . I’ve been to the Vatican so many times, and every visit has been breathtaking. I remember we waited in line to climb St. Peter’s Tower and how narrow the last part was—certainly not for those suffering from claustrophobia. And you cannot leave without seeing the famous Sistine Chapel. Book your skip-the-line ticket here!
Castel Sant Angelo is only a few steps away from the Vatican and across the river from the famous Trastevere neighborhood.
Walk along in Rome’s Old Town and take some pictures with the Trevi Fountain , listen to a local singer in Piazza Navona , and be wow-ed by the impressive Pantheon.
Don’t miss Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo , which are next to each other. And since you’re there, do some shopping via del Corso
Take a food tour in Rome and taste some of the most delicious delicacies in the world.

Read also: 30+ Italian gifts for Italy lovers

Other Rome attractions & activities

No matter if you choose to spend more time in Rome or want to change some of my previous suggestions, there are, of course, plenty of other things to do and see in Rome.

Stroll through Villa Borghese Park and visit the stunning Villa I’ve fallen for while admiring famous artwork by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, and Rubens – book your skip-the-line tour here !
Head to the Palatine Hill and learn about Rome’s earliest settlement. See the house of Livia, and the Baths of Septimius Severus, and get transported back in time.
When night falls, head to the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, look through the door’s keyhole and prepare to be stunned. That’s maybe one of the most romantic places in one of the most romantic towns in the world.
Take a walk in the Giardino degli Aranci (Savello Park), which is especially beautiful during spring and offers a stunning panoramic view over Rome.
Go on a bike tour to the Catacombes and Via Appia Antica
Don’t forget about the Baths of Caracalla or the Terme di Diocletian – two perfect attractions for those passionate about Ancient Rome.

Read next: Steal this Huge Italy Bucket List!

With all this, you can easily spend one full week in Rome.

These are two of the greatest skip-the-line options I see as necessary to book ahead of time:

The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Priority Ticket

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-The-Line-Ticket Entry

Where to stay in Rome

The best area to stay in while in Rome, especially when you only have a few days in the city, is in the central part of town .

However, I would always choose the Termini Station area to be close to the train, or the part closest to the Vatican .

The two are always the more affordable options and are still within walking distance to most of the popular attractions or the underground.

Check out the best hotel rates in Rome here!

Days 4 – 7 Florence

Take the train from Rome to Florence and enjoy the ride through the Italian countryside. Of course, the faster train is always more expensive, but I always book in advance online to take advantage of the great prices and better offers.

Book your train ticket here !

What to do in Florence

Florence is one of the most beautiful towns in the world, and it should be on your bucket list.

Moreover, it is perfectly located so that you can enjoy the Tuscan countryside and even take a day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre.

On your first and last days in Florence, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the Florence Duomo and climb up to the top of the cupola from where you will have a perfect view over Florence, Palazzo Vecchio , Ufizzi Art Gallery , Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery, eat a bistecca alla Fiorentina.

As I’ve said for Rome, Florence is a popular city. When you want to make the most of your 10-day Italy itinerary, make sure to book your skip-the-line tickets ahead of time. You can save hours of waiting in queues and always take advantage of mobile-friendly payment and easy cancellation if your itinerary changes.

Here are some great options:

Florence Duomo Priority Entrance Tour

Florence Palazzo Vecchio’s skip-the-line and secret passage guide

Ufizzi Art Gallery Priority Entrance

See Michelangelo’s David guided tour

On the days in between, plan for:

A day trip to the Cinque Terre from Florence
Feel the real Tuscany and plan some wine tasting with a day trip to San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti .

Where to stay in Florence

No matter where you stay in Florence, as long as you choose a location close to the city center, you cannot go wrong. Florence is not a huge city, so finding such a place shouldn’t be hard.

Of course, staying close to the Ponte Vecchio might be expensive, but if you look a bit further, you’ll find great options.

Two options we really like, both reasonably priced for Florence and perfectly located in the Old Town area, are the Strozzi Palace Hotel and the Hotel Hermitage .

Check out the best hotel rates in Florence here!

Days 8 – 10 Milan and Lake Como

Getting from Florence to Milan by train could take anywhere from 1h15 min to 6 hours.

Again, make sure to book your ticket ahead of time in order to get the best price for the quickest ride.

What to do in Milan

To be honest, Milan has never been among my favorite destinations. However, visiting a few attractions within the city and planning a day trip to Lake Como is worth including in your Italy 10-day itinerary.

Planning a trip to Italy? Check out these 2 options for some of the best 10 days in Italy itinerary. All the Italy tips you know for traveling to Rome, Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and much more. Information on how to #skiptheline at places like the Vatican, Florence Duomo, and Pompeii. When to visit, where to stay, what to do, and much more. Choose to see Southern Italy or Northern Italy, but travel slow on your Italy trip, and see some of the most beautiful Italy destinations. #italy #travel

Here are some of the most important Milan attractions to see on your first day in Milan:

Milan Cathedral . It is the most iconic landmark in Milan, with truly impressive architecture and a rooftop located in the Piazza del Duomo. Book your Duomo with a terrace ticket!
Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II boasts impressive architecture and opulence at its best! Come here for shopping or at least window shopping.
Castello Sforzesco is a 15th-century castle located in luscious gardens. It is a must-see if you want to admire Michelangelo’s last masterpiece, La Pieta. Book your tour here!
La Scala Opera. Apart from the impressive architecture, fewer Opera houses have hosted as many famous singers.
Go on a guided tour and admire Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic Last Supper , a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980, located inside the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Book your tour here!
Take a walk in Naviglio Grande .

On your second day in Milan, take a day trip to Lake Como, Belaggio, and Varenna . You won’t regret it!

This is one of the most fairy tale destinations in Italy, especially when you visit during spring and catch the wisteria in bloom. The Lombardy region is packed with stunning views worth visiting!

Where to stay in Milan

Choose between San Lorenzo , the most romantic neighborhood; Brera , the best for sightseeing in Milan; Navigli , the best for nightlife.

Two of our favorite options to look into are the Hotel Morfeo and Hotel Tiziano – Gruppo Mini Hotel .

Check out the best hotel rates in Milan here!

Option 2 – Venice – Milan – Genoa (Portofino) – Cinque Terre – Pisa

This one is an itinerary that mixes both popular destinations, with one less explored one: Genoa.

It is easily done by train, and you will travel from the mountains to the sea, to colorful hillside villages, and more.

Days 1 – 3 Venice

Venice is by far one of the most popular destinations in Italy. Preferred by couples but not only, the city on the canals is unique and attracts millions of visitors every year.

Spend the time getting lost on the many canals (allow yourself to step away from the tourist paths, and step into the real Venice).

Wake up early and visit the Dodge’s Palace , take a picture on the Ponte dei Sospini ,

Enter San Marco Basilica , go to Libreria Acqua Alta , and spend a fortune on a gondola ride ,

Take home a painted carnival mask as a souvenir, and do not miss the most colorful village with its Instagram-perfect houses – Burano .

For more details, read my 2 days in Venice post.

Where to stay in Venice

If you are traveling on a budget, you will want to stay in Venezia Mestre , a different city 10 minutes away from Venice. Otherwise, go for Cannareggio , San Marco , and San Polo

Days 4 – 6 Milan and Lake Como

How to get from Venice to Milan

Getting from Venice to Milan couldn’t be easier, with plenty of train connections available throughout the day.

Choose a direct high-speed train, and you will be in Milan in a little over 2 hours.

Book your ticket in advance to save on the price.

Follow the guide presented in the first itinerary for things to do in Milan and Lake Como and where to stay in Milan.

Days 7 – 10 Genoa, Portofino, Cinque Terre, Pisa (optional)

How to get from milan to genoa.

Once again, trains are your go-to solution. There are plenty of options throughout the day, and depending on the train type, you can get from Milan to Genoa in 1.5 hours or less than 3 hours. Check out timetables and prices here!

My suggestion is to choose Genoa as your base camp, mainly because you will have great train connections to Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Pisa.

You can easily fill up one day in Genoa : see two of the beautiful palaces – Palazzo del Principe and Palazzo Reale , walk to the old port and maybe go to the Genoa Aquarium , climb the hill and take the whole city in from Spianata Castelletto , and maybe take a taxi up to Boccadasse – a colorful beach that will make you think of Cinque Terre.

Thanks to its location, from Genoa, you will have plenty of day trip opportunities .

Save a day to visit Portofino

Search for “ S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino ” and get your train ticket—the ride is less than one hour long.

Or take the open-top bus from Genoa to Portofino and back.

Take a day trip to Cinque Terre

On your next day, visit the charming Cinque Terre . Wake up early in the morning, take the fast train to Levanto , and from there, hop on the Cinque Terre Express train.

I suggest you skip Monterosso al Mare and head directly to Vernazza . By train, the villages are only a few minutes apart, and most of the train stations are minutes away from the city center— Corniglia is the exception.

Thus, explore Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore . These are not only the prettiest villages, but they are also quite small.

On your last day , you can either choose to stay around Genoa ( Camogli is one of my favorite small villages on the Italian Riviera, close to Genoa, and so underrated), or take the train and head over to Pisa .

The train from Genoa to Pisa takes less than 2 hours.

Where to stay in Genoa

Here are only a few of the hotels in Genoa :

Hotel Le Nuvole Residenza d’Epoca . Stepping into the lobby of this hotel, you won’t feel like you’ve left Venice; even so, the rooms have an airy, minimalist design. The hotel is perfectly located for sightseeing and shopping in Genoa.

Find out when they’re free here!

La Piazzetta Rooms . It may not be a perfect choice if you are looking for a hotel, but this small 3-room place is perfectly located in the heart of Genoa.

Book your stay with them here!

Melia Genova . If you don’t want to step outside of your comfort zone and prefer an international chain hotel with an indoor pool, a sauna, and a Turkish steam bath, Melia is the place for you.

Take a look at their prices here!

When is the best time to plan for your 10 days in Italy itinerary

I’ve been to Italy almost during all seasons, and I would always choose to go back during the shoulder season. That is, during the transitioning seasons: from March to June, and from September to November.

Of course, you can visit Italy anytime, but my tip is to avoid getting there during summer if you can. Summer gets hot, crowded, and expensive, and who wants to see Italy like that?

Getting around Italy for your 10 days

Unfortunately, there is no straight answer to this question. Depending on the itinerary you choose, you might be able to travel a lot by train, rent a car, go by boat, or have a mix of these options.

North and central Italy have a great railway system, and you will be able to go the whole way by train, without renting a car. That will sometimes save you money, and time, and you won’t have to worry about finding a parking space, paying for the highway tolls, and so on.

Southern Italy, on the other hand, is not well connected, and it can be challenging to travel around by public transportation.

Another time when it will be worth renting a car is when you want to drive around the beautiful countryside in Tuscany or go hiking in the Dolomites.

If you feel confused and overwhelmed, don’t worry; each itinerary can be covered by train and bus, as well.

Driving in Italy

You might have read horror stories about driving in Italy, especially on the Amalfi coast or in Sicily . Southern Italy is well known for its inpatient drivers and for people who do not usually follow traffic rules .

However, I would tell you not to worry too much, especially when you really want to see a place.

Are 10 days in Italy enough?

To be fair, I would never have had enough of this country, and no matter how long I spent there, I always wished I could stay longer.

That being said, 10 days in Italy should be enough for an unforgettable vacation. With this amount of time, you can still get to see some of the most important attractions and maybe add a few hidden gems along the way. Because there is nothing better than seeing how Italians live and having a taste of the true Dolce Vita.

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10 Days in Italy – North to South Italy Itinerary

10 days in Italy – the country of pizza, pasta and Aperol Spritz. During 10 days in Italy you can explore the country’s dreamiest places if you plan your trip well.

This itinerary for 10 days in Italy from North to South Italy follows a harsh schedule and might not be the right pace of travel for everyone. When I travel with my friends, we save time by taking night trains, we get up with the sun and we don’t sleep much. For us, to travel is to explore, to experience and to venture – not to relax. If that’s not your way of travel, you might want to spend 1-2 days more in some destinations.

10 Days Italy Itinerary from North to South

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Table of Contents

Getting around in Italy

Getting around in Italy is fairly easy. No matter if you choose public transport or to drive yourself, with both options you can easily get to most sites.

Public Transport

Italy has a well-developed and affordable train network operating between cities. The two train companies in Italy are Trenitalia and ItaliaRail . You can check the route network and their time schedules on their website.

BUDGET TIP:

Often, the fares differ depending on the time and duration of your connection. For example, going from Venice to Rome usually takes about 4 hours. We took a night train that took 8 hours and we paid almost half of the price than the quicker connection would have cost. By taking a night train you also save one night of accommodation.

Also check the prices on Trainline . Trainline is a search engine for train and bus connections in Europe. If you book your ticket well in advance, you might get it for a lower price on Trainline. Knowing the itinerary of your 10 days in Italy in advance can therefore help you save some money.

The perk of having a car is that you’re more flexible in terms of time and place. With a car you can visit places off the beaten path or stay in an accommodation outside the main tourist area to get more value for your money.

To get a good deal for your rental car I recommend comparing prices of different providers. Discover Cars is a great platform to get an overview of the providers and their rental prices.

Aspects to consider

Parking can be hard to find and expensive – especially on the Amalfi coast. In Positano you need to pay 7€ per hour if you can’t find a free parking spot on the street.
Parking tickets: Make sure to only park in the marked places. Policemen are quick to give you a fine if you exceed the time limit or if you park in a wrong place. White marks mean that you can park for free for an unlimited time. Blue marks mean that it’s a pay zone.
You have to pay a fee for using the highways . Short sections usually cost 2,10€ but from Bari to Naples we paid a total of 16,50€ for a 2 hour drive.
Fuel is quite expensive compared to other countries in Southern Europe.

Public Transport or Rental Car?

There’s no clear answer to this question as it depends on your priorities and preferences. If you travel solo or if you’re on a really tight budget, it’s probably better to use public transport.

However, if you’re at least 2 persons and you prioritize flexibility and seeing more than just the main sights of an area, it’s more convenient to have a car.

For 10 days in Italy, a rental car can be quite expensive. We did a mix of both and took the train from Venice to Rome and from Rome to Naples . In Naples we rented a car at the airport. From there we drove down the Amalfi Coast, then to Bari and back to Naples.

I think the best way to do it is as we did it, to take the train between major cities and then rent a car to get around within an area.

Day 1: Venice

Venice is one of the most famous and most visited towns in Italy. It was also the first stop of our 10 days in Italy.

First off, I want to mention that Venice struggles a lot with the problem of overtourism and the disrespectful behaviour of tourists.

If you visit Venice, please remember that this is the HOME of locals and not solemnly a tourist attraction. The City of Venice has launched an awareness campaign #EnjoyRespectVenezia that should guide visitors to behave respectfully and responsibly towards the city and its inhabitants.

A further great way to support the local community in Venice is to shop and consume products from local providers instead of illegal street vendors. Please check out Venezia Autentica before your trip to get an authentic Venetian experience while positively impacting the life of the locals.

Have an early morning

The most famous sights of Venice are usually quite crowded during the day. If you want to enjoy them by yourself, there’s no way around than to have an early morning.

Especially the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco are much more impressive without crowds. Be there at around 7-8 am to admire the architecture without any other people.

Breakfast at Niki Bar

Niki Bar is a great place to start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast. The woman who owns it is such a sweetheart. She prepares all meals with love and the fresh fruit juices are amazing. Plus, you get a huge portion for an affordable price.

Aperitivo at Al Remer

Al Remer offers Aperitivo every evening where you simply pay for your drink and you get a buffet with snacks with it. The bar is hidden behind the small alleys of Venice and people who don’t know about it probably wouldn’t find it. It’s located right next to the canal in a calm place.

Eat panini at De Lele

De Lele sells the best paninis for only 1€. Get some paninis and sit by the canal to enjoy them with a lovely view.

Share an Antipasti Platter at Paradiso Perduto

Paradiso Perduto is a great place for dinner. Their antipasti platters are amazing and big enough to share them.

Day 2: Venice and Burano

Burano is a neighbouring island of Venice that you can easily reach via vaporetto (ferry). It takes less than an hour to get from Venice to Burano and a one way ticket costs 7,50€. The ferry number 12 runs from Venice to Burano and back.

Burano is famous for its colorful houses and the Burano lace that is produced on the island.

I recommend visiting Burano in the morning while the streets are still empty. The later it gets, the more people arrive. In the afternoon and in the evening the island can get quite busy.

Burano is full of colorful houses wherever you look. The island is much smaller than Venice and 2-4 hours are enough to explore everything. There’s not much to do besides strolling through the picturesque streets, visiting local stores of Burano lace and having lunch or a Spritz by the canal. Burano used to be a fisher island so you can get great fish and seafood there.

Day 3 and 4: Rome

We took the night train from Venice to Rome, where we had a short stop of only 1 day. However, I suggest a minimum 2 days in Rome. There’s so much to see and to do in Rome. If you’re an enthusiast of Rome’s history and its ancient buildings, I recommend staying even more than 2 days .

To make the most of your time in Rome, check out these experiences with local guides from Get your Guide :

As I had already been to Rome a few years ago, I didn’t mind the short stop of 1 day. Plus, I always prefer coastal towns and nature to cities.

Aperitivo at Meccanismo

If you want to have a proper local experience in Rome, go for an Aperitivo at Meccanismo . When you order a drink, you get a platter of snacks and antipasti with your order. It is an Italian tradition to have an Aperitivo with friends before dinner.

Visit the famous sites

The Colosseum is one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World and should be part of everyone’s visit to Rome. We went there right before sunset and could enjoy the beautiful lighting of the golden hour.

Here are some great guides to Rome:

The best things to do for 2 days in Rome.
Guide on the best photography spots in Rome .

Day 5: Naples and Pompei

From Rome to Naples it’s only 2 more hours by train. When we arrived at the train station and made our way to the Airbnb in Naples, we soon realised that Naples is not worth spending much time there. While the port area is pretty and there’s a lovely viewpoint on top of the city, there’s not much to see except for that.

If you only have 10 days in Italy, don’t waste your time in Naples and better look for an accommodation in Pompei , as the town is much prettier.

First off, it’s important to clarify the difference between the historic town Pompeii and the modern city Pompei (yes, it’s extremely confusing and it took me a while to figure this out).

The spelling marks the difference between the ancient town (Pompeii) and the modern town (Pompei) in the English language.

The historic town Pompeii was buried under volcanic ash when Volcano Vesuvius erupted in the year 79 AC. Those ruins are what attracts a great number of tourists to the area. Pompeii is only a part of the city Pompei.

Visit the ancient town Pompeii

Preserved by the ash of Volcano Vesuvius’ eruption, Pompeii is now one of Italy’s most famous tourist attractions and shows an insight of how Roman life used to be in the past.

You can book your skip-the-line ticket and a guided tour in a small group here . Or check out this tour to Pompeii including a wine tasting .

Pompeii has truly impressed me. It’s incredible how this whole town could be so well preserved for such a long time after it had been buried by lava. Besides the insights into the way the Romans lived, also the view of the surrounding mountains is impressive.

Climb Mount Vesuvius

Climbing Mount Vesuvius should be on everyone’s itinerary for Naples or Pompei.

Mount Vesuvius is the only volcano on European mainland that has erupted within the past 100 years. It is even regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes because a high number of people live in great proximity of the the volcano, putting them in danger in case of an eruption.

Check out this tour to Pompeii including a wine tasting.

Then you head back to the parking lot where the mini van waits for you to bring you back to the center of Pompei.

Personally, I wasn’t very impressed by the volcano as I’ve climbed other volcanos that were much more impressive. However, the view from the top is amazing and it should be part of a visit to Pompei or Naples anyways.

Pompeii Window B&B

In Pompei we stayed a night at Pompeii Window B&B . The B&B is in a good location near the center of Pompei and we had balcony views of Mount Vesuvius. Plus, the host even picked us up from the bus stop in his private car.

The sunset views from our balcony were amazing. I highly recommend staying there if you spend a night in Pompei.

Day 6: Capri and Sorrento

The Island of Capri can be reached via ferry either from Naples or from Sorrento. A return ticket for the ferry from Sorrento costs about 40€ and the ferry runs every hour.

If you’re on a budget, I recommend visiting Capri as a day trip because the accommodations there are much more expensive than on the mainland. And one day is enough to explore the beautiful places the island has to offer.

Head to Capri in the morning and spend the day there. The last ferry back to Sorrento leaves at 17:45 which gives you enough time to explore Sorrento on the same day and have dinner there.

Capri Island

Capri is a mountainous island which receives a great number of tourists in the summer months. Arriving to the Grand Marina by ferry, you can either climb the numerous stairs or you take a funicular to get to the center of the island.

Gardens of Augustus and Via Krupp

Gardens of Augustus are small botanical gardens on the island Capri. The gardens overlook the ocean and the impressive rocky coast of Capri.

Keep walking up to the highest part of the Gardens of Augustus to see Via Krupp . Via Krupp is a historic footpath that connects the Gardens of Augustus with the ocean.

You can only look at the path from above as it has been closed due to the danger of falling rocks.

Stroll through the center of Capri

Piazza Umberto is the main square of the island and the heart of Capri. It’s located on a hilltop with amazing views of the coastline. The bustling square provides a lively atmosphere where tourists mingle in overpriced cafés.

In the surrounding area you can find designer stores, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels. If you don’t have a fortune to spend, simply take a walk and enjoy the views.

Blue Grotto

Blue Grotto is the most visited attraction on Capri. A boat takes you to a cave where the water reflects the sun rays, making it shine in an intense blue.

I didn’t go there because I didn’t think it was worth it. Apparently, the Blue Grotto is truly impressive but also extremely crowded.

Back in Sorrento, the coastal town nestled among mountains waits to be explored. Sorrento offers beautiful views overlooking Naples, Volcano Vesuvius and the Island of Capri. The picturesque old town features a variety of traditional craft shops and small boutiques.

Try freshly squeezed lemon juice

I’ve never had freshly squeezed lemon juice as good as in Italy. Those lemons aren’t as sour as the common ones and they taste amazing. There’s nothing as refreshing as freshly squeezed lemon juice with ice on a hot summer day.

Eat ice cream at Raki

The ice cream at Raki in Sorrento was the best ice cream I had during my 10 days in Italy. Definitely try mango-orange, I absolutely loved this flavour. And their dark chocolate ice cream is to die for too.

Day 7: Amalfi Coast

Amalfi is a stretch of coastline that attracts thousands of tourists each year. I have to admit that I had initial doubts about the Amalfi Coast. It’s such a hyped destination with overpriced hotels, crowded streets and lots of traffic . These are characteristics that usually make me want to stay away from a place.

Nevertheless, I gave it a try and I was absolutely amazed by the coast. Driving along the Amalfi Coast is simply stunning. The views of imposing cliffs paired with the blue ocean and the houses built into the mountains are impressive.

Positano & Amalfi

Positano and Amalfi are the most instagrammed places of the Amalfi Coast and are considered as the ultimate must-see towns in the area. Parking spaces are rare, if you find a free one you’ll have to walk a long way to the center or you pay 7€ per hour for parking in the center.

If you have the chance, visit Positano and Amalfi by bus or early in the morning . The bus drops you off right by the center. Taking the bus saves you time, money and effort of finding a parking space.

For a different experience, you could also visit Positano & Amalfi by boat .

Positano is a lovely town with cute boutiques, traditional ceramic shops, narrow stairways and a small beach where you can cool down in the ocean. The view of the imposing mountainous coast is breathtaking.

After a couple of hours of strolling through the center and relaxing on the beach I had enough of Positano – there are too many people in a small place and it’s over-hyped in my opinion.

My personal conclusion is that Positano and Amalfi are worth visiting but I wouldn’t want to stay there for more than 1-2 hours.

Minori and Maiori

I was happy to leave the busy tourist hotspot Positano to head to the less famous coastal town Minori . In Minori and Maiori you can find less crowded streets and lovely restaurants that offer delicious meals at a more affordable price.

I highly recommend checking these villages out if you prefer less crowded places.

The restaurant we had dinner at seems to be quite new as it’s not even shown on Google Maps. It’s located right next to “Bistrot 52” in the centre of Minori. The owners are lovely people and the food is amazing.

Stay the night in Agerola

Agerola is located in the mountains of the Amalfi Coast. The village offers a stunning view of the ocean and the surrounding mountains.

Staying in Agerola gives you the best of both worlds : You’re not far away from the busy coast but you can experience the tranquility of a calm mountain village with sea view.

We decided to stay at the Agriturismo Orrido di Pino in Agerola and it was the best place we could have chosen. During those 10 days in Italy, this was my absolute favourite accommodation.

Orrido di Pino is a family-owned Agriturismo in Agerola and the owners are real sweethearts. They grow their own wine (which tastes amazing) and the rooms are spacious with a big terrace. Every evening they offer a three course menu including wine for 20€.

Besides the amazing food and the great hospitality there are also stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean from above.

Day 8: Agerola and Matera

The next day we had an early morning with Italian breakfast in our Agriturismo in Agerola before we headed out to hike the “Path Of The Gods” (Sentiero Degli Dei). This was our last stop on the Amalfi Coast.

Sentiero Degli Dei – Path of the Gods

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) is the most famous hike of the Amalfi Coast and it attracts a high number of hikers everyday. Starting in the village Bomerano , the trail leads from the mountains towards the coast to Positano .

Agerola is the perfect place to stay if you want hike the Sentiero Degli Dei because the starting point in Bomerano is only a 10 minute drive away.

Make sure to be in Bomerano early in the morning at around 8 am to get a parking space. From there, simply follow the signs towards the “Sentiero Degli Dei”.

If you would like to hike the Path of the Gods with a local guide, you can book your experience here .

The sky and the ocean seem to merge into each other at the horizon, so that you can’t be sure where the ocean ends and where the sky begins. During the hike you can enjoy the peacefulness of nature in the calm mountains above the Amalfi Coast.

Once you arrive to Positano or Praiano you can either take a taxi or a boat and a bus back to the starting point in Bomerano.

We only hiked a small part of the trail and turned back around to Bomerano after half an hour. The views were stunning even at the beginning of the hike and this way we saved some time and also money as we didn’t need transport back to the car.

After hiking the Sentiero Degli Dei, we left Agerola and headed towards Matera, which is about 3 hours by car from the Amalfi Coast.

Matera is an ancient city on a hill located in the South of Italy. In 2019 it was declared a European Capital of Culture by UNESCO .

In the past, citizens used to live in cave-dwellings that were carved into the river canyon of Matera. The people living in those caves suffered from diseases and poverty until the government has relocated them into modern houses. Only then, the tourism potential of Matera was discovered and the caves were restored.

Now, Matera attracts lots of visitors and is home to many hotels and restaurants. Wander the cobblestone streets and stop for a coffee or an Aperol Spritz on the way.

You can book your guided walking tour through Matera here .

Day 9 and 10: Bari

From Matera, it’s only a 30 minute drive to get to Bari, which is located in Puglia, on the opposite coast of Amalfi. While Bari itself isn’t worth spending much time there, it’s a great starting point to explore the surrounding villages.

Stay the night in Bari and then head from Bari to Alberobello, Ostuni, Monopoli and Polignano A Mare . These 4 towns are not far from each other and if you have a car, you can easily visit all 4 towns in one day. In case you have more spare time, I recommend visiting Trani as well.

Alberobello

Alberobello is the place you should visit first thing in the morning. We got up at 7 am and drove straight from Bari to Alberobello. This town is a huge tourist magnet and it can get extremely crowded later in the day. The earlier in the morning you get there, the better.

Alberobello is one of the most picturesque towns in the South of Italy. My Italian friend told me that basically every Italian wants to visit it once in their lives.

The most striking feature of Alberobello is the unique architecture of the houses that you can see in the picture above. These houses are called “Trulli” . They were built in the past because it was fairly easy to rebuild them in case they got destroyed.

Now, the Trulli in Alberobello are solemnly a tourist attraction and they’re used as souvenir shops. My local friend told me that many people who live in that area still own a Trullo which they use for storage capacities.

Ostuni is another lovely town in Puglia, South Italy. It is also referred to as the “White Town” . There is not much to do in Ostuni, but the old town invites to stroll through its stairways and to have a coffee or a Spritz in one of the various bars. Keep your eyes open to discover cute alleys such as the one on the photo above.

Monopoli is a charming coastal town with numerous restaurants and bars. I recommend a short stop there to explore the old town and to have a drink or a snack in one of the bars.

We had these antipasti platters at Barumba Café . The salmon platter and the cheese platter were amazing.

As a dessert we treated ourselves to a delicious ice cream at Il Capriccio , which is right next to Barumba Café.

Polignano A Mare

Our last stop of the day was Polignano A Mare. This town was another highlight and is a must-see. Houses built right on the edge of the cliffs provide an impressive view and the buildings seemingly melt with the rocks.

Waves clashed against the cliffs while the sun went down and the streets of Polignano A Mare got busier. The last sun rays illuminated the cliffs and the buildings on top of them.

Polignano A Mare is a great place to end the day as you can watch a beautiful sunset before heading to the old town to have some drinks.

Polignano A Mare was the last stop of our 10 days in Italy. We spent a perfect last evening in this lovely coastal town.

The next day we drove back to Naples to return our car and to take our flight back home.

Budget tips

10 days in Italy can become quite expensive. Here are some tips to spend your vacation in a more economic way.

Don’t fall for tourist rip-offs

It may seem obvious, but don’t eat in restaurants near tourist hotspots such as the Piazza San Marco in Venice or the Trevi Fountain in Rome. Those restaurants usually charge extra for the view or for their location in the main tourist area. Step away from these places and look for a Trattoria or an Osteria in a small side street.

Buy food at the market

When you spend 10 days in Italy, having breakfast, lunch and dinner in a restaurant everyday can become a burden on the wallet. Skip the restaurant for some meals and buy some fresh fruits or traditional snacks at local markets or in the supermarket instead. Find a nice place to sit down and have a picnic.

Coperto – No tips

When you sit down in a restaurant in Italy you’re charged a “Coperto” as a service and cover fee. The charge usually ranges from 1 to 3 Euros and additional tipping is not common.

The same thing that applies for the coperto in restaurants also goes for cafés. If you order a coffee for take-away you sometimes pay only half the price of what you pay when you sit down.

The price list often shows prices for takeaway but when you sit down you’re charged more . To save money, Italians often have their coffee while standing at the bar.

Have an Aperitivo with snacks

Having an Aperitivo with friends is an Italian tradition. You meet in a bar for a drink (usually Aperol Spritz) and have some snacks with it. Some bars take the Aperitivo a step further by offering a platter or a whole antipasti buffet included in the drink . This is especially common in the area of Milan and Florence. But also bars further South offer Aperitivo. Here are some bars that offer Aperitivo with snacks :

Venice : Al Remer Rome : Meccanismo

Having an Aperitivo is a great way to save some money for food as the snacks that come with the drink can be quite filling.

Stay in Agriturismos

Agriturismos are farms on the Italian countryside that receive guests in their restaurant and for overnight stays. Those accommodations are often more economic than hotels and they offer beautiful views and spacious rooms.

Depending on where you stay, you often get home-made products and home-grown fruits and vegetables for breakfast. Meals are usually freshly prepared with local products.

My absolute favorite Agriturismo was Orrido di Pino in Agerola on the Amalfi Coast.

The only drawback is that you usually need a car to get to those Agriturismos as most of them are located outside the center in the countryside.

North Italy vs. South Italy

There’s a great difference between Northern Italy and Southern Italy when it comes to safety measures and restrictions. Northern Italy is the area where the situation really got out of hand while in Southern Italy, life wasn’t impacted much.

Therefore, safety measures such as wearing a mask and social distancing are put into practice more strictly in the North than in the South.

In the north of Italy, almost all restaurants and stores provide hand sanitizer at the entrance and shop owners ask you to sanitize your hands before entering. In the South, people seem to care less and some don’t mind if you enter a building without mask.

10 days Italy - The ultimate guide from North to South Italy

Here are some more suggestions for summer destinations in Europe :

Top 4 Hidden Gems of Gran Canaria
The 6 Most Underrated Places of Lanzarote
Ericeira, Portugal – Europe’s surf capital

I truly hope that my itinerary for 10 days in Italy from North to South provides some useful tips and helps you plan a memorable trip to Italy.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me – I’d love to help!

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July 19, 2020

Europe , Italy

amalfi , Europe , itinerary , north italy , south italy , travel blog , travel guide

33 Comments

July 19, 2020 at 5:07 pm

This is a great Itinerary! I find it very useful because I am thinking about travelling to Italy in August. I’ve heard that Italy can be expensive so it’s amazing to know all these budget tips. Also, those food recommendations look so good 😍 I would love to try the lemon juice and gelato! Thank you for sharing.

July 19, 2020 at 5:18 pm

Thank you for your positive feedback Cristina! I really recommend visiting Italy this summer, you’re gonna have a great time there. And the food there really is a dream!

July 20, 2020 at 12:56 am

Thank you for great information! I cannot wait to visit Rome. Absolutely love all your pictures and the tips you have shared.

July 20, 2020 at 2:34 pm

You’re welcome! I’m glad that you find it useful!

July 20, 2020 at 1:04 pm

Wow what an amazing itinerary Maria! I’m heading to Venice on Sunday and seriously can’t wait. Seeing all your photos makes me even more excited 🙂

July 20, 2020 at 1:47 pm

Thank you Alina! Hope you’ll have a great time in Vencie!

July 20, 2020 at 6:58 pm

This post makes me miss Italy so much! I miss the spritz and the amalfii coast. It’s so beautiful there!

July 20, 2020 at 7:46 pm

I feel you girl! It’s really beautiful and I already miss the food and drinks too!

July 25, 2020 at 10:06 am

Great itinerary and lovely pictures! I’d love to go there right away if I could 🙂 I visited Italy once for a couple of days and only spent a few hours in Venice. Hoping to come back and take my husband there this time as I instantly fell in love with this city!

July 25, 2020 at 11:12 am

Thank you Juliet! Venice rally is lovely city!

July 25, 2020 at 11:05 am

I love your post! It’s funny because my family is from Rome so I’ve been on coubtless day trips to Venice but never to Burano. It looks so cut there so I’ll have to go on my next trip.

July 25, 2020 at 11:15 am

Thank you Linn! Wow it’s so cool that your family is from Rome! I really recommend visiting Burano, I loved it there.

July 25, 2020 at 11:22 am

So many amazing places in one itinerary! There are loads of places here that I’d love to visit, so it’s really good to know that visiting them all in one trip is achievable. Lots of useful tips too, thanks for sharing those.

July 25, 2020 at 4:20 pm

You’re welcome, I’m glad you found it helpful! And yes, those places really are amazing. Italy is so beautiful

July 25, 2020 at 11:37 am

I have so many places still to visit in Italy! This guide is really useful, esp the budget tips!

July 25, 2020 at 4:21 pm

Me too, Katy! With every trip I notice how much more there is still to see. I’m glad you find the tips useful!

July 25, 2020 at 11:59 am

I have been to Italy a few times but there are many cities on your list that I haven’t visited yet! Thank you fir all the tips, I cannot wait to travel there again!

July 25, 2020 at 4:22 pm

I feel the same about Italy. I’ve been there many times but there are still so many beautiful places I haven’t visited yet.

July 25, 2020 at 1:28 pm

I’ve been thinking about doing this exact trip pretty much after I visited Venice before lock down and fell in love, I def need to go back to Italy asap!

July 25, 2020 at 4:23 pm

I hope you get the chance to do that soon. You’ll love it for sure!

July 25, 2020 at 7:46 pm

Really amazing itinerary!! I am going back to Italy next week and finally, I am going to Venice. Can’t wait for it!!!

July 25, 2020 at 10:49 pm

Thank you Alessia! Wishing you an amazing time in Venice, I’m sure you’ll love it

July 25, 2020 at 9:53 pm

Loved this post! I can’t wait to go back to Italy!! Thanks for sharing your tips 🙂

Thank you Faria!

July 25, 2020 at 11:08 pm

Italy is one of my favorite destinations! I also appreciate that your post was able to be current in terms of covid and travel restrictions! I haven’t made it to Venice yet but it is on my list for next time!

July 26, 2020 at 12:17 pm

Italy is also one of my favourite European countries. Hope you get the chance to visit again soon!

July 27, 2020 at 3:58 am

Wow! This is an amazing Italy guide Maria! All of your photos are so beautiful and you definitely have me dreaming of being back in Italy. I’m still hoping I could still go this year. 🙂

August 1, 2020 at 2:06 pm

Thank you Taylor! Hope you get the chance to go!

December 10, 2020 at 3:55 am

I really loved visiting Pompei and Pompeii 😉 confusing for me at first too haha!

December 11, 2020 at 5:40 pm

I felt the same confusion in the beginning haha! And I also loved visiting Pompei and Pompeii!

September 20, 2023 at 10:24 pm

Thank you! We are going to gratefully follow your thoughtful path!

September 20, 2023 at 10:25 pm

What do you think about doing this in the first week of December?

October 17, 2023 at 8:16 pm

You could definitely do that the first week of December. You will have the benefit of seeing the famous places without crowds. Just be aware that the temperatures will be way cooler and you won’t see the sun or a clear sky as much as in summer. Also, some hotels and restaurants might be closed

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Hi! I’m Maria, an outdoor-active traveler who seeks to go off the beaten track to discover hidden gems. Most of the time you’ll find me exploring small beach towns or untouched places in the mountains to connect with nature. My goal is to inspire others to go out of their comfort zone and explore this beautiful planet. During the creation of this blog, uncountable cups of coffee were consumed. If my blog is an inspiration for you in any way, I would appreciate your support by buying me a cup of coffee. Happy traveling!

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Italy Itinerary for 10 Days - The Classic Route

March 23, 2022

If you haven’t been to Italy yet, you should travel as soon as possible. From ancient Roman ruins, architectural marvels, timeless music, and iconic artworks to stunning landscapes, gorgeous coastlines, sprawling vineyards, and delectable cuisine, the country has it all. You will have a fantastic time in this incredible country. Avoid cramming too much into your itinerary because Italy is best enjoyed at a slower and leisurely pace.

Although 10 days is inadequate to see the best of Italy, it is sufficient to be introduced to this beautiful country. You won’t be able to see all of the highlights in a few days, but you will undoubtedly return. So relax and enjoy your time here.

For first-time visitors, it makes sense to follow the classic itinerary and visit the ‘must-sees’. However, if you are re-visiting, you should visit the other areas of Italy like the Dolomites , Milan, Bologna, Pompeii, Lake Como, and Naples. Alternatively, you could take leisure time to explore the Tuscany region or the South of Italy. Remember, whichever way you go, you cannot go wrong in Italy.

Classic Italy Route

If this is your first time in Italy, you must visit Rome, Florence, and Venice, the three most famous cities in the country. We’ve included a few intriguing stops in between to make the most of your trip. These iconic cities also have good train connections, allowing you to travel around the country without renting a car. You can easily change the schedule by skipping or adding a place, depending on your preferences. You can, for example, skip the day tour to Tuscany or Cinque Terre if you wish to spend more time in Florence. If you have a few extra days, add a couple more day trips to your agenda, or simply slow down to appreciate your surroundings. Because the schedule begins in Rome and concludes in Venice, you will need to book an open-jaw ticket, which is usually simple to arrange.

10-day Suggested Itinerary for Italy

Day 1 & 2: Rome Day 3: Take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast from Rome Day 4 & 5: Florence Day 6: Take a day trip to Tuscany from Florence Day 7: Take a day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence Day 8 & 9: Venice Day 10: Bid Adieu to Italy

Italy Itinerary for 10 Days

Italy itinerary day 1 & 2: rome.

Your journey begins in Rome, which is well-connected to the rest of the globe via two airports: Fiumicino and Ciampino. There’s a lot to see and do in the capital city, and you have less than two days, so don’t waste any time. The city is rich in art, culture, and history, and as you walk through the historic city, you are sure to stumble upon some ancient structure or statue on any random corner. Most of the major sites are within 1.5 square kilometers, so you can see them all in a short time. A visit to Vatican City, on the other hand, can be daunting and takes nearly a whole day. Because you’ll be walking a lot, make sure you wear comfortable shoes. The food is excellent, and you should spend evenings in Trastevere checking the restaurants and bars that flow out into the streets when it becomes busy.

Must-Visit in Rome

Trevi Fountain: The baroque-style fountain spills out about 2,824,800 cubic feet of water daily. It is the place where wishes are supposed to come true, so throw a stone over your shoulder and make a wish.
Colosseum: The largest amphitheater was built in 70 AD during the Roman Empire. It could accommodate 50,000 people who came to watch gladiator fights, exotic animal hunts, and live prisoner executions in those days.
Roman Forum: The Forum is now in ruins but was the hub of political, religious, and social activities in ancient Rome
Piazza Navona: The 15th-century public square is brimming with cafes, eateries, and shops.
Spanish Steps: The famous landmark has 135 steps with Trinita dei Monti church at the top.
The Pantheon: One of the best-preserved structures from ancient Rome, the Pantheon is a Roman temple that was built between AD 118 and 125 by Emperor Hadrian
Vatican City: It is the smallest country in the world and home to the spiritual leaders of the Roman Catholic Church. St. Peter’s Basilica, Apostolic Palace, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel are must-sees during your visit to Vatican City. It’s closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of the month.

Italy Itinerary Day 3: Take a day trip to Amalfi Coast from Rome

Boarding the first train to Naples from Rome is the ideal way to visit the Amalfi Coast (the fastest is 1hr10mts). Take a private car, taxi, or tour from Naples. Avoid self-driving as parking in the Amalfi region can be a nightmare. Get Your Guide has some very good day tours to explore the region. The Amalfi Coast is without a doubt one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline on the planet, with many picturesque towns dotting the winding, narrow lanes. The spectacular beauty of the craggy cliffs, gorgeous gorges, vivid turquoise sea, bobbling yachts, and pebbly beaches will take your breath away. For out-of-this-world experiences, stop at Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello (or just Positano ). Delicious food, amazing shopping, and relaxed vibes will elevate your visit to the next level. Make sure to take the final train back to Rome and stay the night.

Italy Itinerary Day 4 & 5: Florence

Catch a train to Florence early in the morning (1.5 hours) so you may spend the majority of the day there. Florence, the home of the Renaissance, is a laidback city recognized for its iconic artwork and architecture. There are over 70 museums in Florence, but we will concentrate on the best of them. The charming town is compact and walkable, so you should be able to see the highlights in two days.

Must-Visit in Florence:

Ponte Vecchio: The historic bridge spans the Arno River and is a lovely location to watch the sunset while browsing the numerous jewelry shops.
Duomo: Florence’s 13th-century Catholic cathedral, which soars over Florence, is the city’s focal point. It has the world’s largest brick dome, which is artistically decorated to depict a scene of paradise and hell. The view from the summit is phenomenal, but you’ll have to walk over 450 narrow, steep stairs to get there.
Palazzo Pitti: The former Renaissance residence houses several museums displaying classic paintings, sculptures, and other artworks.
Boboli Gardens: The 16th-century Renaissance park is located just behind the Pitti Palace on a steep hill. Its vintage location offers excellent photographic opportunities. Italian sculptures, elegant fountains, blossoming flowers, and centuries-old oak trees can all be found at this open-air museum.
Galleria dell’ Accademia: This is a must if you want to see the legendary 17-foot sculpture – Michelangelo’s David statue.
Uffizi Gallery: An architectural wonder that houses thousands of masterpieces made by renowned artists like da Vinci, Caravaggio, Botticelli, and Michelangelo.
Piazza Della Signoria: The city’s town hall that is placed right beside the Uffizi Gallery

Italy Itinerary Day 6: Take a day trip to Tuscany from Florence

To visit Tuscany, rent a car or book a taxi/tour. Olive orchards, picturesque villages, cypress trees, rolling vineyards, hot springs, and farmhouses dot the Tuscany countryside. It is recommended that you take a full-day tour so that you may make the most of your limited time without having to worry about logistics. Wine tours in Tuscany run a whole day and include stops in several towns throughout the region. You can choose from a myriad of locations, including Siena, San Gimignano, and one of the wineries.

Siena is only a half-hour drive from Florence and is home to some of Europe’s most exquisite churches. Additional attractions include the main square, medieval back streets, museums, and tiny cafes. San Gimignano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hill village. After visiting the beautiful alleyways, breathtaking landscapes, and stunning architecture, you must stop here for gelato at the famed Gelateria Dondoli. The Chianti wine region is one of the world’s most popular wine regions. With a gourmet lunch, indulge in some wine-tasting activities.

Italy Itinerary Day 7: Take a day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence

We’re going on a day excursion to Cinque Terre today. Trains run frequently between Florence SMN Train Station and Le Spezia (2hrs). When you arrive in Le Spezia, use the 5 Terre Express to get between the Cinque Terre’s five towns: Monterosso, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The villages are perched on cascading hilltops that drop into the Mediterranean Sea. With their colorfully painted houses, little bistros, and lush vineyards, all of the fishing villages are equally captivating. Over 120 km of hiking route is accessible and you have the option to trek the hillsides around the 5 towns. If you don’t want to hike, you can take the local train, which operates every 15 minutes. You can also spend the day relaxing on the magnificent Monterosso Beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Italian Rivera, or simply taking in the breathtaking views. Return to Florence by train and spend the night there.

Italy Itinerary Day 8 & 9: Venice

The train is the best and quickest way to get from Florence to Venice. The route is served by several high-speed direct trains that will take you to Venice in around 2 hours. From Santa Lucia Train Station, take a water taxi or a water bus to Venice city center. It’s best to stay near the ACTV (water bus) stops because dragging your luggage through the cobblestone streets is challenging.

Venice is unlike any other place on the planet. It is hailed as one of the most romantic cities in the world, and you will discover why when you visit. Rather than trying to tick things off your to-do list, take a walk down the cobblestone streets and soak in the beauty of the secluded corners, Venetian houses, quaint underbridges, and small canals. However, no trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride through the “Floating City’s” labyrinth of waterways and canals. Use the 9th day to explore the other gems of the Venetian Lagoon. Take a tour of Murano (known for hand-blown Murano glass) and/or Burano (famous for its handcrafted lace & rows of vibrant, colored houses). Venice is truly magical, and it’s the ideal place to complete your trip. Stay in Venice for two nights.

Must-Visit in Venice:

Piazza San Marco: The iconic square dates back to the 12th century. The Basilica of Saint Mark is located in the bustling square. Feed the birds, admire the vistas, and sip gelato or coffee while watching the crowds.
Saint Mark’s Basilica: The Basilica is Venice’s most important landmark and a magnificent example of Italo-Byzantine architecture. The interiors of Saint Mark’s Basilica, sometimes called the ‘church of gold,’ are made of shining golden mosaics and five majestic domes. It’s a sight to behold.
San Marco Bell Tower: Climb the bell tower to get one of the best views in Venice
Rialto Bridge: The 16th-century stone footbridge is a perfect place to take some pictures for your Instagram posts.
Doge’s Palace: The ornate Gothic-Renaissance palace was the former residence of the rulers of Venice called the Doges. The sculptures, paintings, and lacework exhibited in the museum & showroom are impressive.
Bridge of Sighs: It is fabled that the prisoners who crossed the bridge on their way to the prison cells sighed on catching their last glimpses of Venice through the tiny windows.
Teatro La Fenice: Italy’s most famous opera house that hosts ballet, opera, and music concerts throughout the year.
Galleria dell’ Accademia: The impressive museum has a large collection of Venetian paintings from the 14th-18th century.

Italy Itinerary Day 10: Bid Adieu to Italy

It’s time to return. Depending upon your flight timings, spend some time checking the places you might have missed and then catch a flight back home from Venice Marco Polo Airport. If you don’t find it convenient to leave from Venice, you can take a train to Milan (about 3 hours) or Rome (approximately 4 hours) on the 10th day and fly from there to your next destination.

Best Time to Visit Italy

To be honest, there is no bad time to visit Italy. From skiing in the Dolomite mountains in winter to sunbathing on the pebbly beaches of the Amalfi coast in the summers, there is something exciting to do all year round. This 10-day Italy itinerary can be done during any season except the winter. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September -October are perfect. The weather is warm and sunny, with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and everything is reasonably priced. Summer is Italy’s busiest season. But, it can be hot, crowded, and expensive.

Getting Around in Italy

There are 77 international and domestic airports in Italy that connect distant cities and villages However, you don’t need to take internal flights unless you are flying long distances. In Italy, high-speed trains are the most efficient mode of transportation. The railroad network in Italy is extensive, and the trains are comfortable, affordable, convenient, and efficient.

Traveling by car gives you flexibility in terms of timing and making additional spots along the way. Self-driving in Italy, on the other hand, isn’t easy. If you are unfamiliar with the roads, particularly in Rome, driving is challenging. The driving style of Italians is quite different, and traffic restrictions are frequently disregarded. There’s a good probability you’ll get a ticket somewhere. Tolls are expensive, and parking in many Italian cities is a headache. If you can afford it, hiring a private taxi is an excellent alternative. Bus travel takes much longer than train travel, but it is often less expensive and will take you to more remote locations. It’s sometimes a good idea to arrange a day tour to save time and effort and simply enjoy the trip without worrying about the details.

In Italy, public transportation within cities is excellent and affordable, even in smaller towns. Taxis are easily available. Mostly, you don’t need a car to move within the city as you can get around by walking, using public transportation, or taking a cab.

Things to know before you travel to Italy

Euro is the official currency of Italy.
The language is Italian, but most people speak English in touristy areas. It is advisable to learn a few basic Italian words before your trip and use them while you are there. People always appreciate it.
Italians eat dinner late. Dinner is not served until 8 pm. Most restaurants close during the afternoon/early evening.
Credit/Debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Just keep some small changes handy for small purchases.
Train tickets can be purchased at the station’s train offices/ticket machines. They can also be found online. You can check all the details here .
You have to buy bus tickets before getting on the bus. They are available at newspaper/tobacco shops that may close down in the evenings – keep that in mind.
Don’t forget to validate your tickets as soon as you enter the bus/tram. Just having a ticket in hand is not enough. You may get fined if you are caught.
The majority of museums are closed on Mondays.
Book tickets to popular tourist sights like Vatican City & Colosseum online to save time as you might have to face long queues to buy tickets, especially in peak season.
Pickpocketing is an issue in Italy, especially in crowded places and train stations. They are notorious for preying on tourists. Leave your valuables in the room locker, carry minimum cash , and take extra care of your belongings.

Electricity is of the 220v standard and you have to use the 2-pins European style plug.
It is safe to drink tap water in Italy. You will find drinking fountains in town squares of big cities, so carry your own reusable bottle.
Many attractions in Italy are religious places and you need to cover your knees and shoulders before you enter them. Always carry a scarf or wrap so that you are not caught unawares.
You have to try the local cuisine. Pizzas, pasta, risotto, Tiramisu, sandwiches, Gelatos, salads, Italian coffee – everything is authentic, flavorful, and yum.
If you are looking for some souvenirs , Venetian glass from Murano, hand-woven lace from Burano, vibrant ceramics from Amalfi Coast, Vatican masks from Venice, chocolates from Florence, and wine from Tuscany are good options. Italian spices, seasonings, and food products are undoubtedly the best souvenirs from Italy.
A cappuccino and café latte is consumed with breakfast. After 11 am, Italians don’t drink milky coffee. You will still be able to find a cappuccino, but you will instantly be labeled a tourist.
In a few places like Venice, you have to pay a surcharge to sit down in a café to drink coffee or anything else. You can stand at the bar and consume without paying anything extra.
Tipping is not expected anywhere, especially if there is a service charge.
Most of the time you have to pay a small charge to use the washrooms in public places in Italy
You need an International Driver’s License to drive in Italy if you are coming from a non-Eu country.
Uber is available only in Rome and Milan, but you can only find Uber’s premium options. That means the cost of using Uber in Rome and Milan is very high. itTaxi is a free App that allows you to book taxis in most Italian cities.
Venice is sinking, so visit this enchanting city before it’s too late .

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This Post Has 4 Comments

Very informative and comprehensive informations

Very Nice Articles

Italy is my dream place, I cannot wait to go there, that place is absolutely beautiful!

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Fearlessly Italy

10 Days In Italy – 3 Epic Itinerary Ideas (With Map!)

It’s not surprising that 10 days in Italy are not enough to explore the country. But it can be quite enough to have a taste of it, and a delicious one. Find out how to plan a perfect 10-day Italy itinerary and enjoy every bit of it.

While probably a 2-week Italy itinerary gives you more room to dig deeper and go off the beaten path, also ten days are a good start to experience the country’s dolce vita, eat its delicious food, and visit important historic sites and soak in its immortal art masterpieces.

To learn about the country and organize your trip, you can refer to our comprehensive Italy travel guide , while if you would rather delegate the burden of the logistics to an expert guide, you can book one of the best private tours to Italy .

Table of Contents

Three 10-Day Italy Itineraries

These itinerary ideas are tailored to different types of travelers. If it’s your first trip to Italy, then itinerary #1 is for you because it’s all about exploring classic destinations like Rome, Florence and Venice.

The second itinerary will take you to beautiful places in central Italy, while in the third one, you will explore the north, including the Dolomites of Trentino Alto Adige. When you want to explore northern Italy, you can either directly land in a major airport like Milano Malpensa or start more central if you want to include some art cities too. In this case, I would suggest you prefer Florence vs Rome because it’s closer to the northern Italian regions.

All these itineraries can be done by train or by car. Probably the first one is the easiest to run by train as it mainly includes the biggest cities, while the others include also destinations that you can only reach by car. In case you are driving, for each itinerary, I provide a map with all the destinations and the directions to get there.

Make sure you read our article about the regions of Italy .

Italy 10-Day Itinerary #1 – The Classics For First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first 10-day trip to Italy, you can’t skip the classic highlights of Rome, Florence , and Venice. To explore them all in-depth you would need a longer holiday, but with what you have, you can still see enough to appreciate what each destination has to offer.

Classic Italy Itinerary – Easy Map

Step-by-step rome-florence-venice classic itinerary, day 1 – arrive in rome.

Whether you arrive in the morning or in the evening, the first day is to settle in your hotel and get familiar with your whereabouts. If you arrive in the morning, you can plan half a day of sightseeing and a relaxing evening in a traditional trattoria for a hearty Roman meal.

As the first day in Rome and of your 10-day Italy itinerary will likely be half a day, I suggest you take a walk in the Centro Storico and visit all the beautiful piazzas such as the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, where you can get in if still open.

Day 2 & 3 – Explore Rome

Day 1 – Ancient Rome & Trastevere

I would kick off your second day in Rome to explore the vestiges of imperial times such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. If you have some time left, visit also the fascinating Baths of Caracalla not far from the Colosseum. After so much sightseeing, you might want to relax. I suggest you do this in the Trastevere neighborhood, which is also a must on your Rome bucket list.

Here, you can take a lovely evening walk, and duck into local attractions such as Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica, and Villa Farnesina for Raphael’s frescoes. In Trastevere, you can also enjoy a traditional meal in restaurants such as Da Enzo al 29 or a delicious pizza at Pizzeria Seu Illuminati, or a great gelato from Otaleg, Fiordiluna, or Fatamorgana.

Day 2 – Vatican

Start your second day in Rome early morning at the Vatican Museums. Here, the queue is always long. If you want to make your entrance faster, you can either book your skip-the-line ticket online or book a private tour that includes the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel .

After the Vatican Museums, head to St. Peter’s Square and visit the gorgeous basilica. The entrance is free and although you will find a queue, it goes pretty fast through the metal detector. Inside, you will stay for about an hour. If you feel you can squeeze it in, go down the crypt of the popes, it’s also free.

For the second part of the last day in Rome, you can either head to the city center to see Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps if you couldn’t do it on the first evening, or head to the lovely Jewish Quarter that offers some of the best traditional foods in Rome.

Where to stay in Rome:

High-end: Portrait Roma – Lungarno Collection .
Mid-range: The Liberty Boutique Hotel .
Budget: Vatica B&B Roma .

Day 4, 5 & 6 – Visit Florence and Tuscany

While you are in Tuscany, I suggest 2 days in Florence and one day out to explore the region. There are several day trips from Florence you can easily take by train to visit only one city such as Pisa , Siena or Lucca. Or you can also visit more areas including the countryside and more than one town either by renting your own car or booking a Tuscany tour.

Some of the highlights I recommend not to miss in Florence for first-time visitors are:

The Santa Maria del Fiore complex. The number 1 attraction in Florence where you can see Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral , climb Brunelleschi’s dome and Giotto’s bell tower, and duck into the stunning Baptistery of St. John.
The Uffizi Gallery. Art lovers can’t possibly miss the Uffizi Gallery and soak in thousands of masterpieces from the most famous Italian and international artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli, Giotto, Cimabue, Caravaggio, Bernini and more.
The Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo’s David. See the gorgeous David sculpture in the museum with the highest number of Michelangelo’s artwork in the world.
Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens. Large mansion of the Pitti family later acquired by the Medicis. You can visit the different areas of the palace and then also the beautiful Boboli Gardens.
Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio. Formerly Palazzo della Signoria named after the Signoria di Firenze, the ruling body in Florence, this is the city’s town hall and an important place to visit right beside the Uffizi Gallery.
Mercato Centrale. Try regional Tuscan and other Italian dishes in the charming and crowded central market.
San Lorenzo Basilica. The basilica of the Medici family with a historical library, a rich treasure museum, and close to the tombs of the powerful Florence dynasty.

Where to stay in Florence:

High-end: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze .
Mid-range: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi .
Budget: Hotel Alba Palace .

Day 7 – Hike the Cinque Terre

Before heading far north, stop in the Liguria region for one day to hike in the Cinque Terre . These are five scenic villages perched on hilltops that plunge directly into the Mediterranean Sea.

The Cinque Terre is a favorite day trip from Florence, but if you like hiking and the season is pleasant, I suggest staying at least one night here. You can easily reach the Cinque Terre by train from Florence and move from town to town either with the local train or directly on foot.

The towns are Vernazza, Monterosso sul Mare, Riomaggiore, Manarola and Corniglia. There is plenty to hike in and around the Cinque Terre towns. Even though it’s very safe, I always suggest you have travel insurance to cover eventual injuries or getting sick on the road.

Where to stay in the Cinque Terre:

High-end: Park Hotel Argento in Levanto.
Mid-range: Oasi Hotel in Levanto.
Budget: Locanda Ca Dei Duxi in Riomaggiore.

Day 8 & 9 – Explore Venice

How to miss the beauty and romance of Venice? If it’s your first trip, even if you have only 10 days in Italy, the beautiful city on the lagoon is a must. Venice deserves much more than two days, but if your holiday can only allow you 10 days in Italy, you can optimize your time to visit as much as you can.

You can save much time if you book some skip-the-line ticket or some private tours that gather several places in a few hours. Some of the highlights not to miss are:

Palazzo Ducale. Doge’s Palace is one of the main highlights in Venice, gorgeous to visit inside and an important historical palace.
Piazza San Marco. Famous all over the world for its beauty, it’s one of the most important piazzas in Italy .
San Marco Basilica. St. Mark Basilica is the iconic cathedral in Venice with gilded domes.
Bridge of Sighs. A must in Venice, while its name sounds pretty romantic, the history behind it is sad as it was the bridge where the prisoners walked on their way to the harsh local jails.
Jewish Quarter. A traditional and historic quarter that’s absolutely a must in Venice for first-timers.

Where to stay in Venice:

High-end: The St. Regis Venice .
Mid-range: Canal View San Marco Luxury Rooms .
Budget: Hotel Abbazia .

If you think you can’t make it to all the main cities, here is my quick guide to help you choose between Florence and Venice .

Day 10 – Fly out from Milan

Milan is the last leg of your 10-day trip to Italy and ideally where you will take your flight home as it has a large international airport, Malpensa. You are not going to have much time, but spending one day in Milan is enough to visit the highlights in the city center and around the famous Duomo.

Some of the places I suggest not to miss even in a short time are:

Milan Duomo. Gorgeous Gothic-style cathedral that you can visit inside and on its rooftop terraces.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. The city’s parlour, stop here for a nice coffee and some window shopping.
The Last Supper. Here you need to book to be admitted and you should do it quite in advance to find a spot. This magnificent mural painting by Leonardo Da Vinci is a must-see in Milan .
Castello Sforzesco. The residence of the powerful Sforza family, you can decide to visit this castle inside where they host several museums and exhibitions, or its large courtyard (free of charge) if you are short in time.

Where to stay in Milan:

High-end: Château Monfort – Relais & Châteaux .
Mid-range: Best Western Plus Hotel Galle .
Budget: 43 Station Hotel .

Variation for this Italy 10-day itinerary

If you arrive in Rome in the morning and you can spend your first day sightseeing, you can stay only 2 days in Rome and head south to Naples first to visit also Pompeii. For a first trip to Italy, this is very much recommended, but if you stay at least two days in Naples, you will also need to cut one day in Tuscany.

You can take the train from Naples to Florence (about 3 hours) and spend two days in Florence before heading to the Cinque Terre, or also one day in Florence and in the Tuscan countryside or in another town.

Italy 10-Day Itinerary #2 – Central and Northern Italy From Rome

The Tuscany countryside, the hidden gems of the Umbria region, and the delicious and hearty food of Bologna are the stars of our second itinerary idea for ten days in Italy. This trip is best for those who have visited already Italy’s classics or if you are a fan of more quiet and less crowded destinations.

Central and Northern Italy Itinerary – Easy Map

Step-By-Step Central And Northern Italy 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1, 2 & 3 – arrive and explore rome.

As for the first itinerary for 10 days in Italy, you arrive in Rome and then you have two extra days to explore the city. If it’s not your first time, you can stray further from the historic center and visit neighborhoods like Testaccio and Ostiense , both of them former working-class districts with a fascinating modern history and plenty of things to see and great restaurants to try.

Day 4 & 5 – Explore the Umbria region

Umbria is worth visiting in your 10 days in Italy both for its countryside dotted with soft-rolling hills and some of its famous cities, including its picturesque capital.

As the first stop from Rome, I suggest at least one day in Perugia, where you can also stay overnight before driving off the next day to Assisi. Some of the places to visit in Perugia are:

Palazzo dei Priori. Important medieval building that hosts the Umbria National Gallery where you can view masterpieces of local artists such as Pinturicchio, il Perugino, Beato Angelico, Piero della Francesca and Benozzo Gozzoli.
Historic town. Wander Perugia city center and its highlights such as Piazza Italia, Corso Vannucci and the stunning Piazza IV Novembre with the 12-century Fontana Maggiore fountain in the middle.
San Lorenzo Cathedral. A must in Perugia, this important cathedral is also in Piazza IV Novembre.
Arco Etrusco. Called Etruscan Arch, this is one of the monumental gates of the ancient Etruscan walls later restored by the Romans.

Where to stay in Perugia:

High-end: Sina Brufani .
Mid-range: Locanda Della Posta Boutique Hotel .
Budget: Locanda Stella .

The Hometown of St. Francis, Assisi is an important tourist draw in the region, so I suggest you carve out some time to pay a visit. You can visit Assisi in one day, so it can be a perfect day trip from Perugia. These are some of the highlights in Assisi:

San Francesco Basilica. The most important church in Assisi, this 13th-century Basilica is a must and the very first place to visit.
Santa Maria degli Angeli in Porziuncola Basilica. The second most important church linked to St. Francis in Assisi, it’s located a bit far from the city center but a must as it’s where the saint died in the 13th century.
Temple of Minerva. A perfectly preserved temple from the 1 century BC that was used for multiple purposes such as prison, residence, and workshops, and finally adapted into a Catholic church.
Santa Chiara Basilica. The church where St. Clare of Assisi, a noble local woman and one of the first followers of St Francis, is buried.
San Rufino Basilica. Church with a Roman cistern that was used to baptize St. Francis and St. Clare.

Day 6 & 7 – Explore the Tuscany region

If you have been to Florence, in this itinerary you can skip it altogether and enjoy the Tuscan countryside, its world-class Chianti wine region, its medieval towns such as San Gimignano, Siena, or Lucca, and its wonderful hot springs.

Since you are skipping the big cities, I highly recommend you pick your hotel or agriturismo near any of the Tuscan springs such as San Giovanni Terme Resort or Agriturismo Villa Buoninsegna , or in the Chianti region such as Relais Vignale & Spa and Palazzo Leopoldo Dimora Storica & Spa , and from there drive to the other places.

Some highlights in Tuscany are:

Siena. Beautiful walled medieval town with a gorgeous cathedral and rooftop city view.
Chianti region. Famous for its wines and wine-tasting tours, Chianti is also a great place to explore quaint towns and fairy castles.
Val D’Orcia. The untouched landscape of this piece of the Tuscan countryside clothed with sunflower and wheat fields is dreamy.
San Gimignano. A picturesque medieval town famous for its many towers.
Hot springs and thermal baths. Some of the best thermal baths in Tuscany are Bagni San Filippo, Terme di Montepulciano, Terme di Chianciano, Rapolano Terme and San Casciano dei Bagni.

Day 8 & 9 – Visit Bologna

Not always included in first-time trips, Bologna does deserve at least one or two days if you are staying 10 days in Italy. In this Italy itinerary, we suggest two days in the area and you can choose to either stay two days in Bologna or one day in the city and one on a day trip to the beautiful Ravenna, home to eight UNESCO heritage sites.

Some of Bologna’s top things to see and do :

Try traditional food. Lasagne, tortellini, tagliatelle, ragù sauce, mortadella cold cut. All this goodness is from this region and in Bologna, you can really tuck into some pretty delicious (and heavy!) dishes.
Piazza Maggiore. The religious and secular pulsing heart of the city, Piazza Maggiore is famous for its Neptune Fountain surrounded by historical buildings.
San Petronio Basilica. The most important church in Bologna, 14th-century San Petronio Basilica is located in Piazza Maggiore and is the last Gothic masterpiece made in Italy.
Santo Stefano Basilica. This is a complex of sacred buildings made of churches, a cloister, a museum, and a courtyard.
Torre degli Asinelli and Garisenda. These are the main two towers in tower-clothed Bologna. The only one that you can visit inside is the 12th-century Torre Degli Asinelli, which is also the tallest.
Archiginnasio. If you have some time left, head to the beautiful Archiginnasio, the former building of Bologna university, the world’s oldest.

Where to stay in Bologna:

High-end: Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni .
Mid-range: Art Hotel Commercianti .
Budget: B&B Lame 87 .

This is the last stop of your 10 days in Italy and while I recommend staying longer, also a day or half a day can be enough to see the major highlights, especially if limited to the city center. Just like for itinerary #1, some of the places to visit in Milan in a short time are the imposing Duomo, the elegant Vittorio Emanuele Gallery, the Sforza Castle, and, if you managed to plan and book in advance, Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

Italy 10-Day Itinerary #3 – Northern Italy

Nature-lovers, hikers, mountain bikers as well as history buffs will love this 10-day trip to northern Italy. Visiting regions such as Lombardy with Milan, Piedmont with two days in Turin, Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto with Verona and possibly Venice is the recipe for a perfect blend of all sorts of Italian experiences. Trying delicious food, hiking the Dolomites and discovering the local history are only some of the things to do in northern Italy in ten days.

Northern Italy Itinerary – Easy Map

Step-By-Step Northern Italy 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – arrive in milan.

Milan’s Malpensa is the busiest international airport in northern Italy and the one with the highest number of flights and airlines. Whether you are coming from the EU or another Continent, your flight will likely land in Malpensa or sometimes Linate, the other Milan airport.

Day 2 – Explore Milan

If you arrived in the morning, on the first day you would have ideally started to look around the most famous highlights. Apart from historical highlights, this trendy northern Italian city treats its visitors with a huge offer of restaurants and great window shopping.

In 2 days in Milan , you can also cruise along the Navigli canals, the perfect spot for a nice dinner or aperitif, and take a tour of the Scala Opera House.

Day 3 & 4 – Head to Turin

A trip to northern Italy can’t miss a stop in Turin, the beautiful first capital of unified Italy. There are so many things to do in Turin that I suggest staying for more than two days, but if that’s all you can afford, you can maximize your time to visit the most important sites.

Some of the places to visit in two days in Turin:

Palazzo Reale. Located in Piazza Castello, Turin’s Royal Palace is the well-preserved former residence of the Savoy family.
Palazzo Madama. Built in Roman times, Palazzo Madama was used as the residence for the ladies of the Savoy family.
Duomo di San Giovanni. This is Turin’s cathedral where the Holy Shroud is kept.
Museo Egizio. The best Egyptian museum in Italy, second only to the one in Cairo to explore ancient Egyptian history and culture.
Mole Antonelliana. A rich cinema museum in Turin’s tallest building from where you can have a 360-degree view of the city.

Where to stay in Turin:

High-end: Royal Palace Hotel & Spa .
Mid-range: NH Torino Santo Stefano .
Budget: Blunotte Torino – Piazza Castello .

Check out our article to decide whether you should devote more time to visiting Turin or Milan .

Day 5 & 6 – Explore Venice + Verona day trip

From Turin, you can take a train to Venice. Usually, you will need one or two train changes for this route, and depending on which combination you choose, it can take between 3 and a half to up to 6 hours.

If you have never visited the city, you should stay at least two days in Venice and from here take a day trip to spend one day in Verona . As I mentioned in itinerary #1, some of the highlights in Venice are Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, San Marco Square and Cathedral, and the Bridge of Sighs.

An easy day trip from Venice is to the beautiful Verona. Like most of the Italian big cities, also here there are many things to see, but if you are short on time, one day in Verona is enough to appreciate its most famous highlights such as the Arena, Romeo and Juliet’s houses, Piazza delle Erbe, and San Zeno Maggiore church.

Since you are short in time, you can visit Verona on your way to Trento, instead of going back to Venice. This applies whether you are driving or traveling on the train. In this case, you can leave your luggage at the Verona Porta Nuova luggage deposit for the day.

Day 7 – Visit Trento

The capital of the Trentino Alto Adige region, Trento can be your base for several day trips. There are many things to do in Trento , but since you are in Italy for only ten days and visiting more than one region, you can explore the city in one day and see other places in Trentino.

Some of the top places to visit in Trento are:

Castello del Buonconsiglio. The former residence of the local Prince-Bishops, this is the most important castle in Trento and in the whole Trentino region.
Duomo di Trento. 13th-century cathedral devoted to San Vigilio built on top of an earl-Christian basilica.
MUSE. The Natural Science Museum of Trento is very famous and well-organized. Divided into floors, each studying a different topic, and everywhere you will find interactive stations that kids will love.
Santa Maria Maggiore Church. The important church where they gathered to prepare for the Council of Trento in the 16th century.

Where to stay in Trento:

High-end: Grand Hotel Trento .
Mid-range: Hotel America .
Budget: Lainez Rooms & Suites .

Day 8 – Take a day trip to Bolzano

While it’s a great city for your holiday, you can see much in only one day in Bolzano. This is why I suggest you plan it as a day trip from Trento instead of changing hotel again.

Bolzano is a German-speaking city and the main town of the Alto Adige sub-region. Very scenic because surrounded by the Dolomites, there are plenty of places to visit and delicious foods to try.

Some of the top things to do in Bolzano:

Piazza Walther. Beautiful piazza in the city center named after a local poet.
South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. An absolute must, it hosts the Neolithic mummy called Ötzi the Iceman and a large exhibition about his life, clothes, and tools.
Duomo di Bolzano. Gothic-style Bolzano’s cathedral will immediately stand out for its green roof.

Day 9 – Enjoy the Dolomites

From Trento, you can also arrange a fantastic day trip to the Dolomites in Trentino Alto Adige . You can visit the Dolomites from many cities in Trentino, but since you are based in Trento, you can take a day trip to the mountains from here.

If you are using public transport, you can inquire about routes and timetables at Trento’s main train station. In this case, you can probably visit only one place in a day, while if you are driving, you should be able to squeeze in at least two destinations. Below, you can find a little map pointing to the three Dolomites’ destinations.

Some of the top places in the Dolomites to reach from Trento are:

Madonna di Campiglio. Very famous ski resort in the Brenta Dolomites, Madonna di Campiglio is a perfect place for hiking and enjoying gorgeous views in all seasons.
Molveno Lake. Stunning lake surrounded by lush greenery, the town close to Molveno Lake is Andalo. If you visit in summer you can also swim or rent a boat in the lake.
Val Di Fassa. Another favorite Dolomites destination in the region and a great viewpoint for the Marmolada peak.

From Trento, you can take the train to Milan if you have some time and wish to explore the city. Otherwise, you can go directly to Malpensa airport from Trento with a change of train at Milano Centrale station. This way, you can stay in the Trentino region for longer or stop in some other places on your way back to Milan.

Variation for this Italy trip

If you have already been to Venice and are not interested in exploring more of it, you can skip it altogether and from Turin, head directly to Riva del Garda in the Lombardia region. You can stay here for one or two days before settling in Trento and get on with your trip.

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About The Author: Angela Corrias

6 thoughts on “10 Days In Italy – 3 Epic Itinerary Ideas (With Map!)”

Hello! We are planning a trip to Italy, Sept 2023. Just two of us. If we do the Italy 10-Day Itinerary #1 – The Classics trip (following your itinerary) but we want to spend time in Portofino, what should trade out instead?

Hi Amy, you can totally trade out the Cinque Terre! Portofino is also a town in the same region so you would still make a similar experience. Portofino is lovely, too!

I would like to ideally spend 10 days between Rome, Florence and Sicily in September. Is that enough tim?

Hi Amy, I am planning a 11 day trip in Oct 2022. I plan on exploring Tuscany region but having hard time deciding which city should be my home base for day trips. There are so many cities to choose from… FYI, I hope to visit Florence, cinque terre, sienna and assissi. Can you recommend any place? Thank you in advance.

Hi Amy, I will be traveling with my husband and 3 adult children. My son loves history, so definitely 3 days in Rome, howwever all my daughters want is to lay out in the sun, whether it be a pool or beach. What are your thoughts?

Hi Carolyn, how long are you staying in Italy? For the beaches, I suggest the south, so either the Amalfi Coast or Puglia. Or you can also head to Sicily or Sardinia.

Ultimate 10 Days Itinerary Italy for First Timers

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

Planning your first trip to Italy and looking for a 10 day itinerary Italy? This is my favorite country in the world and I have visited at least 20 times and I plan to return many more times.

My philosophy is that having a bad time in Italy is impossible as you will always have fantastic food, great wine, and even better coffee. Plus, it is a fairly attractive country.

I envy you the experience of discovering this beautiful country for the first time. This 10 day Itinerary in Italy focuses on the must-see attractions, a few hidden gems in well-known cities and then a trip to my favorite part of Italy – Sicily – to finish off with cannoli, aubergine and ricotta.

Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic country – you’ll be planning your next visit to Italy before you head home.

10 Days Itinerary Italy – Getting to Italy and Getting Around

The main international airport in Italy is Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci (Fiumicino) airport. Rome also has a second airport, Ciampino, which tends to be used by budget airlines within Europe.

Milan also has an international airport with fairly frequent flights. Another alternative is to fly into London and then take a flight to almost anywhere in Italy.

This Itinerary begins in Rome, as it is the most common point of entry for overseas visitors.

Flights to Rome

Getting Around Italy

The easiest and most comfortable way to get around Italy is by train . Italy has an excellent train network which is relatively cheap and comfortable. Trains between major cities are quite frequent.

Internal flights tend to be quite cheap with Alitalia. Easyjet and Ryan Air also offer internal flights in Italy. This itinerary recommends one internal flight. However, you may also want to look at an internal flight at the completion of this itinerary depending on your next destination.

Car hire in Italy is also quite reasonably priced, as is fuel – and the gas stations almost always have excellent coffee! I would recommend car hire if spending a lot of time in an area like Tuscany. However, if you follow this itinerary, there is no need to hire a car.

gondola in venice 10 days itinerary italy

Drivers in many parts of Italy are possibly a little more aggressive than you may be used to (the exception is Naples, where in my opinion, drivers are very aggressive), but I have driven in Italy several times and been quite comfortable.

10 Day Italy Itinerary

Day 1: rome.

I’m going to assume that you arrived in Rome yesterday and have woken up refreshed and keen to see one of the most beautiful cities in Italy . What better place to start than the Colosseum?

The Colosseum in Rome is Italy’s most popular tourist attraction and receives over 7 million visitors annually. I highly recommend that you book your Colosseum tickets before you leave home.

The Colosseum has its own metro station, which is appropriately called Colosseo. Walking from the station to the Colosseum takes only about 2-4 minutes.

If you have pre-booked your ticket you can skip the line for the Colosseum . Pre-booked tickets come with a set time for visitors. Exchange the printout of your PDF for an actual ticket at the ticket booth near the entrance to the Colosseum.

All tickets to the Colosseum also included access to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

There are quite a few different options for Colosseum tickets. The Colosseum has an underground section and some fantastic views from the 3rd level which are not included in standard tickets.

It is also possible to prebook guided tours, see the Colosseum at sunset or combine it with a skip-the-line ticket for the Vatican.

Rome Colosseum Hypogeum skip the line colosseum

There are so many options that I have written a complete blog post on Skip the Line Colosseum , which will tell you everything you need to know to have a fantastic visit to this iconic Italian attraction.

In the afternoon, head to the center of Rome to see a couple of the city’s most iconic attractions – the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Don’t miss the beautiful Fontana della Barcaccia in front of the Spanish Steps. It is one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome.

Then head for one of the best-preserved monuments in Rome, the Pantheon. Make sure to book your tickets beforehand.

Top Tip: The Trevi Fountain is so iconic that I think it is worth visiting twice. See the fountain in full daylight but beware that it will be busy. I would then advise visiting the Trevi Fountain again after dinner. It is lit up at night and often much more peaceful.

For dinner, head to the fantastic Roman supermarket/dining extravaganza that is Eataly. Eataly runs over several levels and is home to all things food and wine. There is an upmarket grill restaurant, a pizzeria, a gelateria, a pub and more. Eataly is sure to provide something to please everyone.

Boutique Hotels in Rome

Located in the middle of Rome’s historic district, the Daphne Inn is a stylish little bed and breakfast. It is super cute and has a nice balcony and a good breakfast buffet.

The rooms aren’t big – nor is the hotel – and there is no minibar or room service – but this is the perfect little hotel for two people on their first trip to Rome.

For something a little different head to the lovely Roman neighborhood of Trastevere to stay at the charming Hotel Santa Maria . A former 17th century convent, there are now 18 bungalow style rooms and a roof terrace.

The room design isn’t super fancy but there is quite a bit of space and an excellent buffet breakfast. This is a particularly good option for families.

A gorgeous converted townhouse with just 9 rooms, Casa Montani also has a great location just near Piazza del Popolo. The stylish rooms feature king-size beds with a high thread count on the sheets. And even better, there are Frette towels and Hermes toiletries.

Day 2: Rome

It’s time to head to the small separate country within Rome, the Vatican. Absolutely book skip the line tickets for the Vatican to ensure you are able to visit and don’t have to stand in line for hours.

Entry to Vatican City and to St Peter’s Basilica are both free. However, tickets are required to visit the Vatican museums and the Sistine Chapel.

After the Vatican, it is time for a late lunch. Head to the delightful piazza Campo de Fiori and the iconic pizza bakery Forno . Pizza is sold by the slice as it comes fresh out of the oven. There is no seating but you can take your pizza to the pub next door and eat it as long as you buy a drink.

After lunch explore the market in Campo de Fiori and check out some of its lovely shops. Then walk over to Piazza Navona and admire its three beautiful fountains. Then meander through the city stopping for coffee and/or gelato while you head to what may be the city’s most beautiful square, Piazza Del Popolo.

For dinner head to Rome’s main station and its fantastic Mercato Centrale . This is much more than just a food court. You’ll find numerous small counters/restaurants serving up a huge range of meals. The quality is very high at all so you can’t go wrong.

You might enjoy reading my articles on bridges in Rome , Rome Monuments and facts about Rome .

Day 3 of 10 Days in Italy: Rome to Venice

After two days of heavy tourist attractions, have a more relaxing morning wandering the lovely neighborhood of Trastevere. This city within a city is filled with piazzas and cobbled streets.

Head to Basilica di Santa Maria and the lovely fountain in front of it. Grab a coffee and sit and enjoy the atmosphere on Piazza Trilussa.

Grab a fantastic roman lunch at Da Enzo – don’t miss the meatballs and if you have room, their tiramisu.

In the afternoon, take the 3 1/2 hour train trip from Rome to Venice .

Venice Boutique Hotels

For a boutique little bed and breakfast with an amazing location, you can’t go past Novecento Boutique Hotel . This family-run hotel is located just a few minute’s walk from St Mark’s Square.

The rooms aren’t large, but they are stylishly decorated with an Arabian feel. There is a fantastic breakfast buffet as well as a cute little courtyard.

Or escape the most well-trodden areas of Venice for lovely Murano and Casa Burano . This unique B&B is spread over five houses on the island of Murano.

The rooms are very Scandi stylish – quite unique in Venice. Bathrooms are spacious and contain rain showers. Each of the five houses has a communal area for tea and coffee. This is also where you can pick up your breakfast basket in the morning.

Day 4 Italy Itinerary 10 Days: Venice

Today is all about exploring Venice by foot and by sea. Start the day off on Vaporetto line one. The Vaporetto is Venice’s public transport boat so for just a few euros, you can experience many of the key sites of Venice over its one-hour journey.

After your water journey, head to the beautiful St Mark’s Square. Have the most expensive coffee of your life at Caffe Florian but decide it is worth it for the ambiance. Then head for St Mark’s Basilica (make sure you have prebooked your skip the line tickets ) and the beautiful Bridge of Sighs.

Spend the rest of the day getting lost in the streets of Venice. Make sure you don’t miss the Rialto Bridge.

After you’ve freshened up, head to Harry’s Bar for a pre-dinner cocktail. Then head to the charming Antiche Carampane for a fantastic seafood dinner.

You might enjoy reading my articles on Venetian Palaces , Landmarks in Venice , Facts about Venice and where to watch the Venice sunset.

Day 5: Venice and Naples

Spend the morning on the beautiful island of Murano. This tiny island is very photogenic and famous for its glassmaking. Head to the island’s main street Fondamenta Manin to watch glass blowing and/or visit the Glass Museum.

In the afternoon hop on the train and head south to Naples . The journey to Naples takes about 5 hours.

Spend the night at the super cute B&B The Bellini House . It’s near the station which means you won’t need to travel far after the train journey and you’ll be ready to go for Day 6.

Day 6: Naples, Pompeii and Positano

Head to the train station after breakfast and hop on a train from Naples to Pompeii. The journey takes about 40 minutes. Book your Pompeii ticket before the day to avoid queues or, worse missing out. The ruins attract 2.5 million visitors each year and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy.

Once you’ve walked Pompeii, hop back on the train for the 35-minute journey to Sorrento. Once in Sorrento head to Frankie’s Bar for a classic Neapolitan-style pizza.

positano main shot things to do in positano

After lunch, head down to the water and hop on the ferry from Sorrento to Positano. After you’ve checked into your hotel take a walk up or down Positano depending on where your hotel is located! There are many cute shops and art galleries to keep you entertained.

Head to the water for a delicious Italian seafood dinner at Chez Black .

Positano Boutique Hotels

Hotel Conca D’ Oro, is a charming hotel with some amazing views of Positano. It is located near the top of town and the only access to the hotel is through some narrow and winding lanes.

Rooms are simply but elegantly furnished with a blue and green tiled floor and white walls. The double bed had a simple cast iron frame and there was a desk and television. The cheerful bathroom was decorated in a blue and white color scheme and had a walk-in shower and a bidet.

The views from the rooms, the restaurant and the fourth floor terrace at Hotel Conca D’Oro are all outstanding.

Hotel Covo Dei Saraceni is a 5-star hotel located just to the side of Spiaggia Grande. It has an amazing location on the water and somehow manages to stay quiet.

If you want true decadence, Le Sirenuse is Positano’s most famous and exclusive hotel. Even if you don’t stay do head to Le Sireneuse for at least one drink whilst in Positano.

Day 7: Positano and Capri

Driving from Positano to Capri (including a boat ride at the end) takes over three hours. But a fast boat from Positano to Capri takes just 40 minutes. However, I wouldn’t recommend taking a super fast boat to Capri as you would miss the stunning Amalfi coastline and its grottos and small statues keeping sailors safe.

There are multiple places along the way where a boat can lay anchor and you can jump in and enjoy the water.

Capri can be a great day trip from Positano. Spend the day in the luxurious town of Capri. Or do what we did: take a slow sail to the island and then pull in for lunch at Bagni Tiberio. This beach club is located on the former site of Palazzo a Mare, Emperor Tiberius’ summer villa. It is possible to see the ruins of the imperial villa overlooking the bay.

Established in 1926, Bagni Tiberio was Capri’s first beach club. Chairs and boats can be hired or head straight to the club’s charming seaside restaurant. The restaurant is famous for its seafood pastas and with good reason. The spaghetti with clams (vongole) is perhaps its most well known dish. It goes very well with the restaurant’s signature drink, white wine with soaked peaches.

Have dinner at Ristorante Da Adolfo . It is only minutes from the Positano dock, and its complimentary boat arrives regularly. The restaurant is located on the small pebble-filled Laurito Beach. It is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down.

The restaurant is casual in appearance and very comfortable with wooden seats and large wooden tables. The food is heavy on pasta and seafood, unsurprisingly. Its signature dishes include mozzarella grilled on lemon leaves, mussel soup, fresh octopus, and anchovies. Try the spaghetti with pepper pesto sauce, a specialty of the area.

You might enjoy reading my article on the most interesting things to do in Positano.

Day 8: Travel to Sicily

Hop in your pre-booked car to be whisked from Positano to Naples airport. From Naples airport catch a flight to Catania , the main city on Sicily’s east coast. The flight takes just over one hour. From Catania airport head to the beautiful town of Taormina. The transfer should take about one hour. Spend the late afternoon exploring the old town of Taormina.

If you are after dinner with an amazing view, Al Saraceno is the place.

Boutique Hotels in Taormina

Hotel Villa Angela is located up the hill from the old town of Taormina. It is a gorgeous Taormina hotel with the most amazing views. Every room at this Sicily boutique hotel has a stunning view. This hotel in Taormina, Sicily, makes the most of its location with a lovely terrace near reception where you can have a sundowner and a lovely pool.

The rooms at this hotel in Sicily aren’t massive but are a good size and beautifully decorated. And each has a lovely balcony.

The hotel has a shuttle bus that goes down to the city gates once an hour and does a regular pickup. This was fantastically convenient. You do need to book the Hotel Villa Angela shuttle during peak times.

⇒ Read reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Or stay in a turn-of-the-century villa carved into the cliffs at Villa Carlotta . Recently renovated, this beautiful Sicily boutique hotel is both elegant and informal and has amazing views over the Ionian Sea.

Each of the 29 rooms at Villa Carlotta is unique; almost all rooms have balconies or panoramic terraces with sea views.

For a more lavish experience in Taormina, check out the grand villa at The Ashbee Hotel. An English architect originally designed this stunning hotel, so it is a mix of Italian and classic quirky English design.

Each of the 24 rooms at this boutique hotel in Sicily is unique in decorations or paintings, or antique furniture. There are four classes of rooms ranging from classic to suites.

If you’re looking for a special meal, don’t miss the St George Restaurant by Heinz Beck and its exquisite tasting menu.

Day 9: Mt Etna

After breakfast, it is time to climb Mt Etna. Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and stands at over 3,300 meters. It is possible to hike this UNESCO World Heritage site independently, but most people take a tour. And if you want to see the summit, you will need to take a tour.

I recommend that you book a Mt Etna tour that takes the minimal hiking option. This means you will take a cable car up the mountain and a 4 x 4 jeep to the summit.

Mount Etna is quite high so it will be much cooler on the summit. Do make sure you dress appropriately.

Remember, Mount Etna is an active volcano. This means there may be some days when it is impossible to visit the summit. Check ahead with your tour company.

The trip is likely to get you back to Taormina mid-afternoon. Wander the lovely old town of Taormina and do some shopping. There are some great boutiques. Or head to the Teatro Greco, Taormina’s most famous landmark. This is a great time of day for photos. Don’t miss Piazza IX Aprile and San Giuseppe on Taormina’s main street.

For dinner, head into the pedestrianized old town of Taormina, and join the pre-sunset promenade down Taormina’s main street, Corso Umberto I. Head to the Metropole for an expensive glass of wine in a fancy environment. Then move on to Malvasia for a classic Italian dinner.

Day 10: Sicily

Your final day is up to you and will most likely depend on your flight times home. Either relax in beautiful Taormina, or if you are still feeling energetic, take a day trip to beautiful Syracuse and Noto.

Read more about Sicily in my articles on the best things to do in Sicily , where to stay in Sicily , best boutique hotels in Sicily and my Sicily Itinerary.

Italy Must Book Skip the Line Tickets

Here are the skip the line tickets for some of Italy’s key attractions that you may want to book before you leave home:

Rome: The Colosseum

Rome: The Colosseum and the Vatican

Rome: The Pantheon

Rome: The Vatican

Venice: St Mark’s Basilica

When to Visit Italy

As with many places in Europe, the best times to visit Italy are in what is known as the shoulder seasons – March through May and September through November. The weather will be pleasant and the crowds will be less – and hotels should be cheaper.

Summer is June through August and can get very hot and crowded with long queues. Rome, Tuscany and Sicily will still be mild between November and February but do expect quite a few things to be closed. Christmas is another busy period but is generally Italians returning home.

Doges Palazzo Venice the king of the Venetian Palaces

Things to Know before you go to Italy

Italy operates on the Euro currency
It has a 220 voltage with a 2 pin plug like most of Europe
The internet is quite good and most hotels will have access. However, at this stage, there are not that many cities offer free internet access as several others do in Europe.
Dinner tends to be later in Italy – often 730pm at the earliest.
Pasta is normally served as a first course rather than as a main meal.
Meals tend to be longer than you may expect with more courses – food is for enjoying not rushing.
Italians tend to only drink cappuccinos or coffee with milk in the morning. You may receive some looks ordering coffee with milk after lunch but the baristas are getting used to this.
To get a coffee or pastry it is usual to go to the cashier and pay for the items first. Then take your receipt and provide it to the person behind the counter who will get you your coffee/pastry.
Coffee shops are predominantly for standing rather than sitting. Most Italians will order an espresso, toss it down and head off. There may be less seating than you are used to – or desiring if you have sore feet from hitting the sites!

I hope you enjoyed reading my 10-day Italy itinerary.

Landmarks in Italy

What is Italy Known For

Wineries in Montepulciano

Things to do in Rimini

Things to do in Orvieto Italy

Sardinia Boutique Hotels

Tuscany Boutique Hotels

Bologna Boutique Hotels

Best Places to Visit in Puglia

Best ski resorts in Italy

This 10 Day Itinerary Italy post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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The best places to visit in Italy in October

With the cooler months just around the corner, travel can still be on the agenda, but where are the best places to visit in Italy in October ?

October is a wonderful time to visit Italy, offering milder temperatures, fewer tourists , and the opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and landscapes away from all of the crowds.

Whether you're drawn to the historical landmarks, picturesque countryside, or gorgeous coastline , Italy in October can be the perfect destination for any keen traveller.

Why visit Italy in October?

Is italy still hot in october, amalfi coast.

Spending October in Italy is the perfect way to see in the Autumn months. What makes it the perfect time for a visit?

Comfortable weather: The autumn days in Italy are much more mild than at the height of summer, making it a great time for sightseeing. You can comfortably explore cities and beautiful landscapes without worrying about the heat.
Fewer tourists: Italy is a country with a rich history and lots of breathtaking destinations to visit. In the Autumn, there are fewer tourists in the popular hotspots. It’s the ideal time to visit and take in the sights without the summer crowds.
Harvest festivals: Italy is famous for its food and drink, and harvest festivals in Italy are the perfect opportunity to experience Italy's culinary traditions, with truffle hunts, wine tastings, and local food festivals. The vendemmia , or grape harvest, happens August-October, with the olive harvest, or raccolta delle ulive taking place October-December. An October visit can be the perfect time to experience both.
Lower travel costs: With off-peak prices, you can often find cheaper accommodation and flights when travelling to Italy in the Autumn months.

While the weather in Italy starts cooling down in October, southern regions like Sicily and the Amalfi Coast remain warm, with temperatures reaching the mid-20s°C.

Northern areas such as Venice and Milan are cooler so it’s a good idea to check the weather before you travel.

Best places to visit in Italy in October

Where are the best places to visit in Italy?

October in the region of Tuscany can be a real treat. The rolling hills and vibrant vineyards make it an ideal time for both sightseeing and relaxation.

Tuscany’s famed harvest season is in full swing in October, allowing visitors to take part in festivals celebrating wine, olive oil, and chestnuts. Truffle hunting tours and wine tasting are popular activities for visitors, permanent residents, and expats who have chosen to call Tuscany home.

Top attractions:

Florence: This city comes alive in October with fewer tourists making it easier to explore landmarks such as the Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral, and Ponte Vecchio.
Siena: Known for its mediaeval architecture and the Piazza del Campo, Siena offers a more intimate look at Tuscan life. Visit the Duomo or take a walk along the ancient city walls for a relaxing and culturally rich escape to Italy.
Lucca: Famous for its preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca is ideal for leisurely bike rides and strolls through its charming piazzas.
Pisa: While Pisa is of course known for the Leaning Tower, October provides the chance to better explore the entire city, including its cathedral and the Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Rome in October is a dream for history buffs and art lovers who want to escape the crowds. The summer heat has finally dissipated, and the city’s landmarks are much more accessible without the swarms of tourists and 40-degree days.

Colosseum and The Roman Forum: You can’t visit Rome without seeing this iconic landmark. Without the queues and crowds, visitors can truly appreciate Rome’s ancient heart, where gladiators once fought and emperors ruled.
Vatican City : Take advantage of shorter queues at the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica. October is also a great time for attending a Papal Audience.
Trevi Fountain and The Spanish Steps: Iconic Rome landmarks that are less crowded in October, perfect for photo opportunities without the summer rush.

Sicily offers an excellent escape for those who aren’t quite ready for the Summer to be over.

The island is completely unique with an array of beautiful beaches, volcanoes, and ancient Greek and Roman ruins.

Valley of the Temples: One of Sicily's most impressive archaeological sites, this collection of ancient temples is even more magical when you can fully appreciate it without the crowds.
Mount Etna: Europe’s most active volcano is an interesting spot for a hike. Learn more about the area and experience something that most other locations cannot offer.
Cefalù: A picturesque beach town, perfect for relaxing, even in October. With a stunning cathedral and charming narrow streets, Cefalù can be a great place to visit.
Palermo : Sicily’s capital is full of history, from its grand baroque churches to the famous street markets. There’s plenty of life in Palermo for those looking for an Autumnal getaway.

Venice in October is a romantic haven, with fewer tourists making it easier to soak in the city’s beauty.

St. Mark’s Basilica: The magnificent architecture is a must-see for those visiting Venice for the first time.
Gondola rides: With fewer gondolas on the canals, October is the perfect time for a serene gondola ride through Venice’s quieter waterways.
Rialto Market : Visit this famous market for a taste of local life, where vendors sell fresh seafood and seasonal produce,

The Amalfi Coast in October is as beautiful as ever. Offering breathtaking views, charming villages, and great weather, it's an excellent destination for those who prefer a quieter and more relaxing visit to Italy.

The beaches, although quieter in October, are still warm enough for sunbathing, and the hiking trails offer some stunning coastal views for those who still want to be exploring in the cooler months.

Positano : Known for its colourful houses that cascade down the cliffs, Positano is a postcard-perfect paradise that is far less crowded in October.
Ravello : Famous for its music festival, Ravello offers beautiful gardens and villa views overlooking the sea.
Capri : Just a ferry ride away, Capri is a gorgeous must-see island with its famous Blue Grotto.
Path of the Gods : Labelled one of the “most breathtaking hikes in the world”, the Path of the Gods is worth a visit. This hiking trail offers some of the most spectacular views along the Amalfi Coast, especially when the weather is clear in October.

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Trieste is the capital city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in northeast Italy. A port city, it occupies a thin strip of land between the Adriatic coast and Slovenia’s border on the limestone-dominated Karst Plateau. Italian, Austro-Hungarian and Slovenian influences are all evident in its layout, which encompasses a medieval old city and a neoclassical Austrian quarter.

The City of Split marks 1700 years since the beginning of the construction of Diocletian's Palace. Split, a city where every epoche since antiquity has left its traces, was conceived within the walls of the palace which was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian as his private residence. The well-preserved palace has been listed as UNESCO's register of the worlds cultural heritage. During these 1700 years plus, Split has played an important role in Croatian history. Today, Split is the center of cultural and scientific life, with many institutions, museums, gallerys and theatres. Split is the second biggest city of Croatia. Due to its central position on the Adriatic coast and its exceptional environment, Split soon developed into the leading and biggest city of South Croatia, its large port, commercial and industrial center and an important European touristic resort. The present city of Split is an organic fusion of its antique heritage and of modern architecture, set up in the beautiful Mediterranean environment and full of a sober and thoughtful atmosphere of a big city.As the scientific centre of the region, Split's scientific institutions have had remarkable results in many fields including the protection and study of cultural and natural heritage, oceanography, fishery, Adriatic agricultural cultures, etc. Split is also known for great accomplishments in sports, notably basketball, soccer, tennis, handball, rowing, sailing, and waterpolo. Split hosted the Mediterranean Sport Games and the European Athletic Championships. Split is connected by rail to the hinterland, by ferry boats to the Adriatic islands, Italy and Croatia, and to the rest of the world by its international airport.

Dubrovnik - the city of a unique political and cultural history (the Dubrovnik Republic, the Statute from 1272), of world-famous cultural heritage and beauty (inscribed on the List of World Heritage Sites by Unesco) - is one of the most attractive and famous cities of the Mediterranean. Apart from its outstanding natural beauties and well-preserved cul-tural and historical heritage, Dubrovnik also offers high-quality visitor opportunities. It is also the city of hotels, of high ecological standards and tourist programs, and is equally attractive in all seasons. Its geographical isolation is compensated by high traffic and communication standards - especially through air traffic and fast hydrofoil boats. The tourist development of Dubrovnik started before the First World War; quite soon, the exclusiveness of its attractions made Dubrovnik a powerful international tourist centre. The sightseeing of Dubrovnik and its monuments requires several days. However, already a walk through Stradun, through narrow streets and small squares, monumental ramparts and fortreses, provides enough opportunities to experience the millennial beauty of its shell-shaped urban core, centuries of building, stone-cutting, carving and engraving, the history of the Duke's Palace, libraries, the oldest pharmacy in the south of Europe, etc. Dubrovnik offers individual choice among numerous museums and galleries, which contain the jewels of Croatian heritage. The Dubrovnik Museum in the Duke's Palace keeps 15,500 exhibits in its cultural and historical department. A collection of furniture from the 17th-19th century, uniforms of dukes and councillors, aristocratic garments and many other items are exhibited in the authentic halls of the palace. The Maritime Museum (situated in the fortress Sveti Ivan) has a number exhibits on a permanent display, related to the maritime affairs of Dubrovnik and Croatia on the whole, with a particular emphasis on the history of the Dubrovnik Republic. The museum of the Franciscan monastery keeps all inventories of the old pharmacy, as well as the works of Dubrovnik jewel-lers, painters and embroiders. The museum of the Dominican monastery exhibits valuable examples of Dubrovnik painting from the 15th and the 16th centuries, as well as sculptures, jewellery, manuscripts, incunabula and notes (music). The treasury of the Dubrovnik cathedral keeps the relics of St. Blaise, patron of Dubrovnik, and numerous paintings and works of art. The Rupe Ethnographical Museum presents traditional occupations and the rural architecture of the region of Dubrovnik, national costumes and hand-made textiles. Very attractive is also the Aquarium of the Institute of Biology, situated in the fortress Sveti Ivan, comprising interesting marine species. Dubrovnik has a number of churches, monasteries and hotels scattered all over the town. Its coastal belt is adorned with several marinas, piers and promenades. Because of a magnificent view on the mediaeval Dubrovnik, a walk along the town ramparts is a must for each visitor. A great number of Dubrovnik restaurants and taverns offer delicious specialities of local and international cuisine. Sports and recreational facilities include playgrounds, courts and requisites for all sports in the sea and on the ground, from tennis and table tennis to sailing and yachting. There are also several gyms and fitness centres with swimming pools, saunas, massage, aerobics, solarium, box gyms, etc. Dubrovnik is famous for quality hotels. Most of them are situated on the Lapad peninsula and in the area of Ploce, southeast of the old town. The hotel complex Dubrava - Babin Kuk on Lapad has all features of a small town. It has a shopping centre, a bank, an out-patient department, many restaurants and cafés, and a street called the "New Stradun", which connects all hotels. Dubrovnik is the city of an outstanding cultural and artistic life. The most important event in the cultural life of the city is the Dubrovnik Summer Festival (10th of July - 25th of August), traditionally held since 1950. It is a theatre and classical and folk music festival, since 1956 included in the calendar of world festivals and as such one of the most famous cultural events in the world. Concerts and other performances take place on open stages in the town (Gunduliceva Poljana, Drziceva Poljana, Lovrijenac, Revelin) or in beautiful interiors of the most famous buildings (Duke's Palace, cloisters, churches). The repertoire includes works of Croatian and world classics, performed by the leading personalities from Croatia and abroad, including a number of world-famous actors, directors, conductors, etc. So far several hundreds of them have performed in Dubrovnik. An important part of the Festival are performances of local (Lindo, Lado) and foreign folk music ensembles. The artistic life of Dubrovnik is characterized by numerous exhibitions taking place throughout the year. Apart from already renowned galleries - the Art Gallery (Put Frana Supila 23), its exhibition space Luza Art Centre (Stradun), Sebastian - occasional and permanent exhibitions are also held in other spaces as well. Very famous are also Dubrovnik carnival festivities - so-called Dubrovnik "karnevo" (local variant of the word "carnival"), held ever since the early Middle Ages, when they were brought from the neighbouring Italy. Another important event is the Feast Day of St. Blaise, also the Day of Dubrovnik (3rd of February). The feast takes place for the whole week, including religious ceremonies, a procession through the town, concerts, sports events, entertainment and carnival programs. Excursions to Dubrovnik during that week are regularly organized.

Kotor is a fortified town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, in a bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovcen. Characterized by winding streets and squares, its medieval old town has several Romanesque churches, including Kotor Cathedral. It's also home to the Maritime Museum, which explores local seafaring history. Sveti Ðorde, one of 2 tiny islands off the ancient town of Perast, features a centuries-old church.

Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is a principal port and the largest town in the Ionian islands. It is built between two Venetian castles, having its own unique atmosphere. It is a thriving mass of shops and businesses, set amongst a captivating and charming assortment of elegant buildings, churches, imposing fortresses and narrow alleyways leading to hidden squares. The tall buildings with the 'volta' (arches), the 'cantounia' (narrow flagstoned streets), the 'mouragia' (sea-walls) are showing all a clear Italian influence. One of the most beautiful walks in the town is around the Esplanade (Spianada square), one of the biggest squares in Europe which is the hub of the Corfiot's life. Here you can walk around or sit in one of the many cafe bars underneath the arches of the 'Liston', a name probably derived from a similar promenade in Venice. Liston was built during the imperial French occupation and is reminiscent of the larger 'Arcades' of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. On the upper side of Esplanade stands a memorial to the British Lord High Commissioner Sir Thomas Maitland, built in 1816 in the shape of a circular building with Ionian columns. The Corfiots call this building 'sterna' (cistern) because this was where the entrance to the largest underground cistern of the town was to be found. Near the Maitland's monument, in front of the building where the Ionian Academy was housed, stands the statue of John Capodistrias, the first President of Greece. It is a work from the end of the 19th century showing the Governor standing deep in thought. Opposite the Liston is the the Old Fortress and 'Anthonas', the Municipal Gardens. In the gardens is the statue of Lord Guilford, showing the founder of the Ionian Academy in his academic robes holding an open book. Nearby are the busts of two famous Corfiots, the poet Lorenzo Mavilis and the writer Dinos Theotokis. At the northern end of Esplanade stands the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, one of the most elegant buildings in Corfu. Opposite the west front of the palace is a beautiful building which now houses the Reading Society of Corfu, the oldest cultural institute in modern Greece, founded in 1836. The Reading Society contains a unique library of Greek and foreign books as well as a large collection of manuscripts, newspapers, periodicals, paintings, maps and engravings mostly related to the Ionian islands. As one's gaze leaves the Esplanade, after lingering on the palace, it embraces a magnificent view towards the coastal road (Arseniou Street) with its sea-walls. Following along this road will take you to the Old Harbour of Corfu and the other Venetian castle, the one called the New Fortress. Along this road the narrow lanes ('cantounia') lead to the Campielo, the oldest quarter of the town. Here the visitor can find the oldest houses and many of the historic churches in Corfu. At the northern end of Capodistria Street stands the Capodistria Mansion, an excellent example of neo-classical architecture. It was built in 1835 by the Corfiot architect John Chronis and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Greece. Here John Capodistrias, the first President of Greece, was born. Another notable landmark in the old town is the central market. The most interesting street here is Nickiforou Theotoki as the rows upon rows of 'volta' standing on their stone columns and the tall buildings form one of the most characteristic aspects of Corfu Town. In a little square on Nickiforou Theotoki Street stands the building of the Ionian Bank, which was built in 1846 displaying a well-proportioned facade with finely detailed Ionian pilasters and pediment. On the first floor of the building the Paper Money Museum is housed. At the far end of the square is the Church of St. Spyridon. It shelters the body of St. Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu and one of the great Saints of Greek Orthodoxy and draws a constant stream of pilgrims from all over Greece every year. On the Evgeniou Voulgareos Street stands the crenellated belfry of the Roman Catholic Church of the Annunciation a venerable building from the end of the 14th century. The whole building was destroyed in the World War II bombing, and the only remains are the belfry, two inscriptions and a bas-relief representing war trophies. Between Evgeniou Voulgareos Street and a modern square stands the most elegant of the Venetian buildings in Corfu, the Town Hall in baroque style. At the end of Moustoxydi Street stands another building of the period of British rule, the historic the Ionian Parliament. At the junction of the Garitsa coastal road and Alexandras Avenue stands the Douglas Obelisk, which also belongs to the same period, erected in honour of the Lord High Commissioner Sir Howard Douglas, to whom Corfu owes a lot of public works and philanthropic institutions.

Taormina is a hilltop town on the east coast of Sicily. It sits near Mount Etna, an active volcano with trails leading to the summit. The town is known for the Teatro Antico di Taormina, an ancient Greco-Roman theater still used today. Near the theater, cliffs drop to the sea forming coves with sandy beaches. A narrow stretch of sand connects to Isola Bella, a tiny island and nature reserve.

Strait of Messina

The Strait of Messina divides the island of Sicily from Calabria in southern Italy, and is 3km wide.

Stromboli Volcano

The Stromboli volcano forms one of the Aeolian-islands in Italy. The island of Stromboli is just 4 kilometers wide, 900 m asl, but unbelieveable 3.000 m above the bottom of the sea! In fact it is a huge nearly 4.000 m high mountain, with 3/4 below sealevel... Stromboli is one of the most active volcanoes on the earth. Stromboli has been erupting almost non-stop for the past 2.000 years. All remaining inhabitants of the Italian island of Stromboli have been evacuated amid fears of further violent volcanic eruptions. Stromboli has an official population of 450, but civil protection officials said there were only 300 there at the time because many people were already away due to the holidays and the off-peak tourist season.

Palermo, Sicily’s main port, nestles in the middle of a wide bay enclosed, to the north, by the Pellegrino Mount and, to the south, by Capo Zafferano. It lies on the edge of a very fertile plain that was called in the 15th century Conca D’Oro (meaning the golden shell or horn of plenty) on account of its lush citrus plantations, palm trees and olive-groves. At one time it was a favorite haunt of writers, poets and artists, who were enraptured by its eastern atmosphere and beauty. Built and grown over the course of centuries, Palermo conveys a range of diverse cultures and traditions. It suffered heavy damages during the Second World War bombings, its old quarters destroyed and never been completely rebuilt. Also, the construction of large modern crumbling buildings in the suburbs has done nothing to improve the city’s image. Nevertheless, it has preserved much of the priceless heritage handed down by the peoples who populated it. They left indelible traces not only in its artistic patrimony but in its very vital rhythm of life. Palermo becomes particularly lively in July during the Festival of the Patron Saint Rosalie, celebrated with a programme of events lasting five whole days.

Naples, a city in southern Italy, sits on the Bay of Naples. Nearby is Mount Vesuvius, the still-active volcano that destroyed nearby Roman town Pompeii. Dating to the 2nd millennium B.C., Naples has centuries of important art and architecture. The city's cathedral, the Duomo di San Gennaro, is filled with frescoes. Other major landmarks include the lavish Royal Palace and Castel Nuovo, a 13th-century castle.

Rome/Civitavecchia

Located about 80 kilometers northwest of Rome, the Port of Civitavecchia is the port of Rome and a busy ferry and cargo port serving Italy and southern Europe. Lying on Italy’s eastern shores on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Port of Civitavecchia has excellent direct connections to Rome. It is an important cruise and ferry port with regular passage to Sardinia, Malta, Sicily, Tunis, and Barcelona. Fishing is of secondary importance to the Port of Civitavecchia. In addition to ocean-going traffic, the Port of Civitavecchia also contains a thermoelectric center and metallurgical works. In 2006, over 51 thousand people called the Port of Civitavecchia home. The Port of Civitavecchia was built on an earlier Etruscan settlement. Emperor Trajan founded the Port of Civitavecchia in the early 2nd Century, calling it Centumcellae. Today, Trajan’s Port is preserved within today’s Port of Civitavecchia. A busy growing town during the late Roman era, the Port of Civitavecchia was attacked by Vandals and then destroyed by the Saracens in 828 AD. Residents escaped to the nearby Allumiere Mountains where Pope Leo IV built a walled town in 854. Eventually, the people returned to Civitavecchia (the name means “old city”). At the end of the 15th Century, the Port of Civitavecchia was under frequent attack by pirates. The naval arsenal was constructed in 1508. Pope Paul III commissioned the building of the keep, which was designed by Donato Bramante and then finished by Michelangelo in 1537, to protect the Port of Civitavecchia from the pirate attacks. In 1696, Civitavecchia became a free port under Pope Innocent XII. Because it was Rome’s main port, the French occupied the Port of Civitavecchia in 1849. The Port of Civitavecchia was linked to Rome by the Rome and Civitavecchia Rail Road in 1859. When the Port of Civitavecchia became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1870, it was one of the Papal State’s most strongly-fortified towns when Papal troops welcomed General Nino Bixio on behalf of the Italian unification forces into the Port of Civitavecchia fortress. World War II brought destruction to as much as three-quarters of the Port of Civitavecchia. Reconstruction enlarged the Port of Civitavecchia beyond its pre-war area. The Autorita Portuale Civitavecchia (Port of Rome) is responsible for managing and operating the Port of Civitavecchia as well as the ports of Fiumicino and Gaeta. The modern Port of Civitavecchia is at the center of rail, road, and air networks that link it with central Italy and the world. The Port of Civitavecchia has capacity to handle about 11 million tons of cargo per year and over 1.5 million passengers. Cargoes include forest products, cereals, iron and steel, chemicals, automobiles, containers, and liquid bulk. In 2007, the Port of Civitavecchia welcomed 856 cruise vessels carrying 1.6 million passengers, and the total number of passengers using ferries and cruise vessels was 3.8 million. In 2007, the Port of Civitavecchia handled a total of 7.7 million tons of cargo. This total included 1.5 million tons of liquid bulk, 1.7 million tons of solid bulk, 4.6 million tons of packages, and 31.1 thousand TEUs of containerized cargo. The Port of Civitavecchia contains 28 berths of a total 5.6 thousand meters in length with alongside depths from 6 to 18 meters. Port properties include five warehouses containing 36 thousand square meters for handling and storing cargoes. The intermodal terminal includes seven thousand square meters of storage space and 12.5 thousand square meters for loading/unloading rail cars and parking. The Port of Civitavecchia is one of the busiest ferry ports in the world. Just 80 kilometers northwest of Rome, it is the main tourist destination for people traveling to the Eternal City. It is also a central port for ferries carrying passengers to more local destinations. The ferry terminal offers a complete line of amenities. Different ferry companies offer services to the various destinations. Moby Lines handles crossings to Olbia, Sardinia. Corsica Sardinia Ferries runs services to Golfo Aranci. Grimaldi Ferries carries passengers to Barcelona and Tunis, and Grand Navi Veloci operates a route to Tunis. Ferrovie dello Stato operates a combined rail-ferry service to Golfo Aranci.

Onboard the Oosterdam

Costco Member Reviews

Year Built: 2003
Year Refurbished: 2016

Double Occupancy Capacity: 1916

Holland America Line’s first Vista-class cruise ship, Oosterdam has delighted guests since her maiden voyage. Guests now have more world-class entertainment options than ever before. Live music has always been the heart and soul of evenings aboard Holland America Line, and now Oosterdam features the full Music Walk experience with three exciting venues. Lincoln Center Stage features world-class musicians performing chamber music. Billboard Onboard, rocks the house with 50 years of chart-topping hits. The already popular B.B. King’s Blues Club, brings the best of Memphis blues to sea. Feel free to enjoy exciting activities, pursue new interests or simply relax and rejuvenate.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

Digital Workshop

Disco/Nightclub
Game Arcade
Theater/Show Lounge
Fitness Center
Sauna/Steam Room
Culinary Arts Center
Educational Programs
Pool - Outdoor
Sports Facilities
Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
Art Gallery
Bars/Lounges
Children's Indoor Play Area
Organized Age Specific Activities
Teen Center or Disco
Teen Programs
Business Center
Concierge Desk
Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
Safe Deposit Boxes

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

Greenhouse Spa

Beauty Salon
Full-Service Spa
Internet Center
Babysitting
Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
Infirmary/Medical Center

Dining Room

Main Dining

Dining Room: For breakfast, lunch or an unforgettable five-course dinner, the elegant main Dining Room is your destination for sophisticated dining, with menu selections from classic favorites to vegetarian options, to dishes inspired by the regions you’ll visit.

Pinnacle Grill

Specialty Dining

Pinnacle Grill: Enjoy dishes inspired by America’s Pacific Northwest, such as king salmon from Alaska and choice, responsibly raised beef from Washington State’s Double R Ranch. Complement your meal with a selection of boutique wines from the Pacific Northwest and other celebrated vineyards from around the world. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Canaletto: This authentic Italian restaurant offers a menu that celebrates spartire (Italian for "sharing"). Try braised chicken cacciatore "al forno," branzino ai ferri or a classic Italian pasta: spaghetti pomodoro or garlic shrimp-infused ravioli, perhaps. Buon appetito! This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Room Service

Casual Dining

Lido Market: Lido Market provides a fresh, new approach to casual dining for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with a panoramic view of the sea. A modern marketplace with different themed stations, the Lido offers a curated selection of delicious options to grab on the go or to have quickly made to order.

Dive-In: Dive in to a grilled burger on brioche or a Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog. For alfresco dining by the pool, Dive-In has it all, including lighter fare like the grilled chicken breast sandwich and vegetarian-friendly portabella mushroom stack.

Explorations Café: A comfortable, coffeehouse environment offering espresso drinks and pastries. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Room Service: Complimentary 24-hour dining in the comfort of your stateroom.

Disclaimer regarding ship dining

> Inside Stateroom
> Ocean View Stateroom
> Balcony Stateroom
> Suite Stateroom

Staterooms feature premium massage showerheads, fine linens and fresh fruit upon request.

Standard Interior Stateroom (Category: N)

Daily housekeeping
Complimentary 24-hour room service
Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
Luxurious bathrobes
Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
Generous storage
Fresh fruit upon request
Ice service
TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

Standard Interior Stateroom (Category: MM)

Standard interior stateroom (category: m), standard interior stateroom (category: l), interior stateroom (category: k), interior stateroom (category: j), large interior stateroom (category: i).

Elegant staterooms feature luxurious bedding, premium massage showerheads, a porthole or a window and fresh fruit upon request.

Large Outside Stateroom (fully obstructed views) (Category: HH)

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Large Outside Stateroom (fully obstructed views) (Category: H)

Large outside stateroom (partial sea views) (category: g), large ocean-view stateroom (category: f), large ocean-view stateroom (category: e), large ocean-view stateroom (category: dd), large ocean-view stateroom (category: d), large ocean-view stateroom (category: c).

Spacious staterooms have a private balcony, whirlpool bath with shower and walk-in closet.

Deluxe Ocean-View Verandah Stateroom (Category: VH)

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

Deluxe Ocean-View Verandah Stateroom (Category: VF)

Deluxe ocean-view verandah stateroom (category: ve), deluxe ocean-view verandah stateroom (category: vd), deluxe ocean-view verandah stateroom (category: vc), deluxe ocean-view verandah stateroom (category: vb), deluxe ocean-view verandah stateroom (category: va).

Luxurious suites feature a whirlpool bath, large sitting area, private balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows and more. Select suites feature a dressing room.

Signature Superior Verandah Suite (Category: SZ)

Whirlpool bath

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Signature Superior Verandah Suite (Category: SY)

Signature superior verandah suite (category: ss), neptune deluxe verandah suite (category: sc).

Premium bathrobes, slippers
Fresh flowers
One-Touch concierge service
Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
In-suite coffee, espresso
Complimentary laundry
Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
Welcome glass of sparkling wine
Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
High tea in suite on request
Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Neptune Deluxe Verandah Suite (Category: SB)

Neptune deluxe verandah suite (category: sa), pinnacle penthouse verandah suite (category: ps).

Category: PS

Ship Name: Oosterdam
Year Entered Present Fleet: 2003
Ship Class: Vista
Maximum Capacity: 2,504
Number of Passenger Decks: 11
Number of Crew: 817
Officers' Nationality: International
Ocean-View without Balcony: 165
Ocean-View with Balcony: 477
Total Inside Staterooms: 154
Tonnage (GRT): 82,305
Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 1,916
Country of Registry: Netherlands
Total Staterooms: 958
Suites with Balcony: 162
Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, inside stateroom, ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom, departure date - 05/14/2026, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information

Ship's registry: The Netherlands

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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Salinà, Sicily

Salinà

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September 17 - October 31

Yellow Warning for Thunderstorms

11:00 AM Tuesday - 11:59 PM Tuesday

12:00 AM Wednesday - 11:59 PM Wednesday

RealFeel® 73°

RealFeel Shade™ 70°

Max UV Index 2 Low

Wind W 8 mph

12:00 AM Thursday - 11:59 PM Thursday

RealFeel® 79°

RealFeel Shade™ 71°

Max UV Index 5 Moderate

Wind NE 6 mph

RealFeel® 81°

RealFeel Shade™ 74°

Wind ENE 6 mph

RealFeel® 80°

RealFeel Shade™ 73°

Max UV Index 6 High

Wind NW 7 mph

Wind E 7 mph

RealFeel® 75°

RealFeel Shade™ 75°

Wind SSE 4 mph

RealFeel® 76°

Wind NE 1 mph

Wind W 13 mph

RealFeel® 71°

RealFeel Shade™ 69°

Max UV Index 3 Moderate

Wind WNW 7 mph

RealFeel® 78°

RealFeel Shade™ 72°

Wind NNW 2 mph

Wind N 2 mph

Wind NNE 2 mph

RealFeel Shade™ 66°

Max UV Index 4 Moderate

Wind WNW 4 mph

RealFeel® 74°

RealFeel Shade™ 67°

Wind NW 2 mph

RealFeel® 70°

Wind ESE 5 mph

Wind SSE 2 mph

Wind SE 2 mph

RealFeel® 72°

Wind S 2 mph

RealFeel® 68°

RealFeel Shade™ 68°

Max UV Index 1 Low

RealFeel® 69°

Wind SSE 6 mph

RealFeel Shade™ 65°

Wind SSE 9 mph

RealFeel® 67°

Wind SSE 7 mph

Wind NW 1 mph

Wind SE 4 mph

RealFeel® 66°

Wind S 5 mph

Wind S 7 mph

Wind S 9 mph

Wind WSW 6 mph

Wind NW 5 mph

Wind SSW 2 mph

RealFeel Shade™ 64°

Wind ENE 9 mph

RealFeel Shade™ 63°

Wind NE 8 mph

RealFeel Shade™ 62°

Wind NNE 7 mph

Wind N 7 mph

Weather Near Salinà:

Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto , Sicily
Capo d'Orlando , Sicily
Milazzo , Sicily

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COMMENTS

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10 days in Italy itinerary
The best 5 itineraries to spend 10 days in Italy, enjoying places like Florence, Venice, Lake Como, Amalfi Coast, Milan and so much more! ... Trains (also the regular ones) are a cheap and interesting way to travel around Italy. Day 7 - 8 - 9: Florence and Tuscany.
Ultimate 10 Days Itinerary Italy for First Timers
The journey takes about 40 minutes. Book your Pompeii ticket before the day to avoid queues or, worse missing out. The ruins attract 2.5 million visitors each year and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. Once you've walked Pompeii, hop back on the train for the 35-minute journey to Sorrento.
Positano, Capri & Pompeii: Tried & Tested 10-Day Amalfi Coast ...
Here's the ultimate travel guide on how to visit Positano, Italy's iconic summer hotspot on the Amalfi Coast. Amalfi Drive | Image credit: Phlegrean/Flickr ... it's time to head to the town of Amalfi. An important trading town between 839 and around 1200 AD, Amalfi emerged as a tourist destination during the Edwardian era, when posh ...
The perfect holiday in Puglia, Italy's mysteriously well-kept secret
On your third day, head back towards Bari, a two-hour drive along the scenic coastal road. You could make a stop after about an hour at Torre Pietra, a medieval tower overlooking a wild beach in a ...
The best places to visit in Italy in October
With the cooler months just around the corner, travel can still be on the agenda, but where are the best places to visit in Italy in October?. October is a wonderful time to visit Italy, offering ...
Oosterdam
Find exciting cruise vacations and last-minute cruise deals with the help of Costco Travel. Our exclusive member values are available aboard popular cruise lines. ... Around Italy's Boot: Dalmatian & Amalfi Coasts Cruise 10-night Oosterdam cruise ... Day 10 Port of Call Naples Arrival 7:00am Departure 6:00pm. Overview . select to open Naples ...
Salinà, Sicily, Italy Daily Weather
Know what's coming with AccuWeather's extended daily forecasts for Salinà, Sicily, Italy. Up to 90 days of daily highs, lows, and precipitation chances.

Europe , Italy , Travel

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

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

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

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

Read My Guide to Train Travel in Italy Here

See this list of the best places to see in Italy

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

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

Read More: What to do in Rome for a Day

Rome, Florence, & Venice

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

Sardinia & Sicily

Florence, Siena, Chianti, San Gimignano, &

Wanderlust Crew

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10 Days in Italy Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes for a First Trip

How Many Days in Italy?

Getting To & Around Italy

10 Days in Italy Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

Day 1 – Rome

Where to Stay in Rome

Day 2 – Rome

Day 3 – Rome

Day 4 – Rome

Day 5 – Florence

Where to Stay in Florence

Day 6 – Florence

Day 7 – Pisa, Siena or Lucca

Day 8 – Venice

Where to Stay in Venice

Day 9 – Venice

Day 10 – Verona, Lake Garda, Prosecco or Burano

Rome-Naples-Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Day 1 to 4 – Rome

Day 5 – Naples

Where to Stay in Naples

Day 6 – Naples

Day 7 – Sorrento

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

Day 8 – Positano

Day 9 – Capri

Day 10 – Amalfi

Milan-Florence-Bologna-Venice Itinerary

Day 1 – Milan

Where to Stay in Milan

Day 2 – Milan

Day 3 – Lake Como

Day 4 to 6 – Florence

Day 7 – Bologna

Where to Stay in Bologna

Day 8-10 – Venice

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10 Days in Italy: A Complete Itinerary for First Timers

How Much Can You See With 10 Days?

How to Structure Your Itinerary

Where to Start and End Your Trip to Italy

How to Get Around Once You’re in Italy

How to Plan an Incredible 10 Day Italy Itinerary

Days 1-3: Rome

Getting From the Airport to Rome

What to Do in Rome

The Colosseum & Roman Forum

Marvel at the Collection at the Vatican Museums (and St. Peter’s Basilica)

Walking the Centro Storico (in the early morning!)

Spend an Evening in Trastevere

Seek Out the Best Views in Rome

Where to Stay in Rome

Days 4-7: Florence + Day Trips to Bologna & Siena

Getting from Rome to Florence

What to Do in Florence

The Uffizi Gallery

The Statue of David (and the Galleria dell’Accademia)

The Duomo di Firenze

Piazzale Michelangelo & Oltrarno

Take a Day Trip to Bologna (Day Trip #1)

Take a Day Trip to Siena (Day Trip #2)