Perfect 10 days in Italy Itinerary (5 samples + tips)
Italy is one of those European destinations that deserve multiple trips. But if you only got ten days, and wondering what to do, and where to go, then you will find our guide useful. We have included 5 samples for 10 days in Italy itinerary, focusing on regions we covered, as well as fast-paced sightseeing in popular destinations.
10 days in Italy Itinerary Ideas – Where to go in Italy for 10 days?
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Each region in Italy is unique and depending on your personal choices and what’s on your Italian bucket list you might like one itinerary over another.
In 10 days in Italy, you can surely check off the 3 iconic cities – Rome, Venice, and Florence (sample 2), a region such as Northern Italy (sample 5) and Tuscany (sample 3), or a mix of Italy and microstates (sample 4, making the most of your trip).
Our very first sample 10 day Italy itinerary gives you the best of cities, towns, and landmarks in a fast-paced sightseeing plan.
In short, wherever you want to go in Italy, these Italian itineraries for 10 days are all you need to plan your dream trip!
Is 10 days in Italy enough?
10 days in Italy is enough to cover at least 3 main destinations intimately. You can spend 2-3 days in each, and then venture out on day trips to nearby areas in the region to explore more. In 10 days you can relax, and also check off iconic landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
We do recommend using the full 10 days for exploring, and if you have to take long-haul flights (with the time difference, etc), then we recommend adding an extra day for travel.
Travel within Italy won’t take more than 2-4 hours, as we will be using trains (preferably high-speed trains) to destinations that are near each other!
Best of Italy Itinerary 10 days for first time visitors
- Day 1: Rome
- Day 2: Rome
- Day 3: Venice
- Day 4: Venice
- Day 5: Milan
- Day 6: Florence
- Day 7: Florence
- Day 8: Vatican City
- Day 9: Amalfi Coast – Vietri sul Mare
- Day 10: Amalfi Coast – Amalfi town
This 10 day Italy itinerary covers the best of the best – with iconic cities, and landmarks from the length and breadth of the country. It is perfect for a first trip and who wants to see it all, before intimately discovering more of Italy over an extended period of time.
For this trip, plan to arrive in Rome, and then from there take high-speed trains to get to other places.
Reaching Rome:
Rome is the capital city of Italy, and it is the best option to fly into when traveling outside of Europe. For our trip, we flew from Canada (via Portugal) and arrived in Rome.
Roma Fiumicino Airport, also known as Leonardo da Vinci International Airport is the busiest airport in Italy. In order to get to the city center, you can use the Leonardo Express.
Leonardo Express is the direct train service between the airport and the city center – Termini stop. The ticket costs 17.50 euros, and it can be bought at the airport, and at the Termini newsstand. It takes 30+ minutes for the trip.
You can also hire a taxi, and it will take about 40 minutes. Shuttle buses also take the same time, and it costs 7 euros.
You can book transportation from/to the airport below
Where to stay in Rome?
For hotels and accommodation, try to stay in a central area like near the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, or even Roma Termini/ Prassede. Here are some recommendations
- Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini: This is a 4-star luxury property located near the Termini Station in Rome. It is located about 3 km and 4 km from Trevi fountain and the Colosseum respectively. The rooms are clean, and the property has a hot tub on-site. You can check out photos here
- Condotti Boutique Hotel: This property is located near the Spanish Steps and it is a great area for walking and sightseeing with access to many attractions, bars, and shopping centres. Condotti Hotel is also good value for money. Book your stay here
- Prassede Palace Hotel: This is a 4-star hotel, and is one of the nicest where we stayed in. The property has a cool restaurant on-site, and the rooms were super clean and beautiful. From here we were able to walk to the Colosseum (15 minutes), plus there were tons of trattorias nearby as well. Click to book your stay here
Day 1 of 10 days in Italy Itinerary: Explore Rome’s iconic landmarks – Colosseum, Roman Forum, pick a neighborhood to explore in the afternoon/evening
The capital city of Rome should be on every traveler’s list. It is home to the iconic Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and various others. What fascinated me the most about Rome was the number of ruins in every nook and cranny of the city – and I love heritage sites! It is a must-visit for every history lover.
Once you arrive in Rome, explore the following on day one,
- Visit the iconic Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. Book a guided tour to appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its past. Set aside at least 3 hours for sightseeing here. Add an extra hour for free time for yourself to roam around, and take photos. Here is the tour we took, and recommend
- Enjoy a Hop on and off tour to get oriented to the city
- Get down at Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore). This is the largest church in the world honoring God through Mary.
- Finish the night with dinner and drinks near the Termini or Trastevere neighborhood (accommodation area).
As we stayed at the Prassede Palace Hotel, we head back to the area after visiting the Basilica of Saint Mary Major and opted for a nice meal close to the property.
Day 2 of 10 days in Italy: More of Rome for the day. Start for Venice in the evening
On day 2 of your Italy itinerary, explore more of Rome’s attractions such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza di Spagna, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.
And then in the evening, start for Venice via high-speed train.
Here is the sightseeing agenda for the day,
- Trevi Fountain: The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, and one of the prettiest. It is completely free to visit, and yes you are allowed to throw a coin (or three) in it. You can visit the fountains at any time of day, but mornings are great for photos!
- Spanish Steps: Located in the Square of Spain aka Piazza di Spagna, are a set of steps that climb between the square and Piazza Trinità dei Monti, leading to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. This is also a free attraction and is worth a visit. Piazza di Spagna is beautiful to wander about, eat and shop!
- Pantheon: Pantheon is completely free to explore. It was a former Roman temple and is a Catholic Church now (Hadrian rebuilt it in 126 AD). We recommend heading there in the morning when the gates open so that you are not wasting time waiting in line. If it gets too crowded, then skip going inside.
- Piazza Navona: Finish sightseeing for the day at Piazza Navona, also known as Navona Square. The piazza flaunts wonderful Baroque architecture such as Bernini sculptures, fountains, a stunning church, colorful street artists, quaint cafes, and lots of open space to wander around, admire, eat and soak in the sun!
After sightseeing, start for Venice. We recommend opting for a high-speed train. It takes about 3 hours to get there. Regular trains take 3 hours 45 minutes.
Trains depart from Rome Termini Station and they arrive at the Venezia Santa Lucia train station. You can book train tickets here
Driving takes 6+ hours, one way.
Where to stay in Venice?
For a short trip to Venice, we recommend staying by the Grand Canal, Saint Lucia Station, or a little away in the neighborhood of Mestre. Hotels in Mestre will be cheaper as compared to the centre.
Here are some options for you,
- Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection: Located in the neighbourhood of Dorsoduro, this 4 star property is within walking distance to many bars and sightseeing areas in the city. Read traveler reviews and check current availability
- Hotel Campiello:This is a good value 3 star hotel, located close to San Macro Piazza, and many other sightseeing areas. Hotel Campiello is at the heart of the city when it comes to sightseeing, taking the ferry to Venetian Islands and more. Check availability here
- Campanile Venice-Mestre: Located in Mestre this is a 3 star property with nice amenities, and restaurants and public transportation nearby. You can easily find good deals for rooms here. Find out more about Campanile Venice Mestre
Settle in for the night, relax and get ready for an epic day in Venice.
Day 3 of Italy 10 day itinerary: Discover Venice highlights
Wake up to the amazing city of Venice on day 3 of the Italy 10 day itinerary.
Often known as the “Queen of the Adriatic”, “The City of Water”, “City of Masks”, “City of Bridges”, Venice is built on hundreds of islands in the Adriatic. Once upon a time, it was huge maritime power with a kingdom on its own. Today it is the capital city of the Veneto region in Italy.
Venice has beautiful canals and bridges connecting various neighborhoods. After a lovely breakfast, kick start your sightseeing in Venice
- Take the time to wander around Venice city centre, stop by various bridges, shops and cafes that come along. We spent a few hours doing this and were able to check off so many things including the Bridge of Sighs, Cà Grifalconi, and many churches
- Make your way to the Piazza San Marco to admire St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s red roofs.
- If you have time on your hands, visit the Doge Palace located at the same square. Book a combined guided tour of the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access ticket here
- After the tour, head to the Rialto Bridge and admire the Grand Canal and the gondolas. There are a lot of places to eat and shop by the Bridge and it was a lovely experience for us!
- Sign off for the night by reserving a free 15 minute rooftop access to T Fondaco terrace. This is a mall, located by the bridge. From the rooftop you can get an amazing view of the city!
Day 4 of Italy 10 day itinerary: Head Venetian Islands – Burano, Murano, and Torcello. Start for Milan in the evening
On day 4 of Italy itinerary, wake up a nice breakfast by the canal, and then visit the nearby popular Venetia Islands – Burano, Murano, and Torcello. We recommend a day tour of 5.5 to 6 hours so that you can cover all three islands quickly, before making your way to Milan.
Each of the three islands can be visited via motorboat from the St Mark’s area, and you will get 1.5 to 2 hours in each spot. In Murano, you can visit a glass factory and learn how glass masters create world-famous masterpieces in a glass-blowing demonstration.
When in Murano, do visit Basilica of Santi Maria e Donato,which is one of the oldest Churches in the Venetian lagoon, dating back to the 7th Century.
Next head to Burano Island. It is a stunning and colorful place with cute houses and cafes. Burano gets its unique look from fishermen’s houses that were painted in pretty and bright colors. The island is also known internationally for its rare artisan lace, so do pick up some goodies to take back home.
Finally, explore Torcello. Torcello was the very first settlement in the Venetian Lagoon. It is home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which was founded in 639.
If you do not wish to do a tour, then opt for a ride to Burano. This is one of the prettiest and colorful islands near Venice, and we are sure you will love to spend time there.
After exploring the Venetian Islands, head back to Venice, grab something to eat and make your way to the Saint Lucia Train station. This time for Milan.
Venice to Milan is 2.50 hours by high speed train. It takes about 3.50 hours by road.
Where to stay in Milan?
We recommend the city centre and the Milan Centrale train station area for your accommodation.
Zone 1 is the Milan City Centre, which includes most of the sightseeing spots like the Duomo, Sforza Castle, Sempione Park, and it is also amazing for shoppers! Milano Centrale railway station is where you will arrive, if traveling by train from Venice. The city centre is a 7 minute train ride away, so this is a great option to consider.
Here are a few options for hotels in Milan.
- Starhotels Anderson: Starhotels Anderson is located near the central train station. It is great for access to the metro. The property also has a restaurant on site (international menu). Check out pictures and availability here
- Park Hyatt Milan: This stunning luxury property is located close to the Milan Duomo in Zone 1. The Duomo is about 4-5 minute walk from the hotel, and it offers stunning views of the city. View more information here
- c-Hotel Atlantic Milano: We stayed at this property and highly recommend it. It is great for sightseeing and transportation. There were restaurants located close to the property, and you could also go on nice walks nearby. Book your stay here
Day 5 of Italy Itinerary 10 days: Explore the finest in Milan – Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Opera
Milan is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. It is home to the largest cathedral and the oldest Chinatown in Italy. With stunning quarters, fashionable quarters to classy museums, Milan won’t disappoint you!
Often visitors to Italy will skip the capital city of Lombardy, but we do recommend exploring Milan – even for a day. It is possible to explore 2-3 landmarks in Milan in one day. Note that you have the entire day and night here in the city.
So here is how your one day in Milan itinerary would look like
- Visit the Milan Cathedral or Milan Duomo. This is one landmark that you must not miss. We recommend booking tickets for the rooftop terrace access as well as the archaelogical site. It takes about 2+ hours to explore it all. You can book the tickets here
- Check out the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located in the same piazza. It is the world’s oldest shopping arcade, and oh its so stunning inside. You can break for brunch or go shopping
- After that, join hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus tour to get acquainted to Milan’s neighbourhoods and learn about its history
- Make a stop at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie, to see the Last Supper. Tickets get sold out fast, we recommend booking it prior to your trip. Book guided tour with access here
- Next, visit the Sforzesco Castle. This castle was a fortress of the Duke of Milan, dating back to the 15th century. It is free to walk through the complex, and there are many museums and cool exhibits that you can visit (but for this itinerary just explore from outside)
- In the evening, head to the Sempione Park, and attractions inside the park like the city gate – Arco Della Pace
Day 6 of Italy Itinerary 10 days: Start for Florence, explore its highlights
Start for Florence in Tuscany on day 6 of the Italy itinerary. Known as the birthplace of Renaissance art and stunning monuments, the cultural and city vibe in Florence is hard to beat.
Florence is synonymous with all the iconic creative spirits of the Renaissance era, and Italian haute couture. From the sights of the Duomo, River Arno to Gucci garden, Florence or Firenze is a popular destination in Italy.
Starting from Milan, hop on a high-speed train to get to Florence in 1.50 hours. Try to book an early morning ride so that you can enjoy the whole day exploring.
Where to stay in Florence?
We stayed in Florence and Tuscany for an extended period of time and loved it. For Florence accommodation, we recommend staying in the city centre area, preferably in and around the Duomo with views!
- La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B: La Terrazza is one of the stunning B&B that you can stay in Florence. The rooms are super pretty, and you have access to the rooftop that gives you uninterrupted view of Florence Duomo and other city landmarks. Imagine waking up to a nice breakfast here. Book your stay here
- Grand Hotel Cavour Florence: This is an upscale 4 star hotel with a rooftop bar. Suites are housed inside a 13th century property. Click to view photos and prices
- Hotel Vasari: This 3 star hotel is located near the Santa Maria Novella Florence station, and is about 15 minute walk from Palazzo Vecchio. The property has artistic work on the doors, and lobby. For some this hotel might look a bit dated, but you do get a good deal on stays here. Take a look at the availability here
Plan to arrive in Florence in the morning. Check in to your hotel, or drop off your bags and then start exploring. In Florence, there are 2-3 museums are that completely worth a visit, especially if you are into Renaissance art and history. All thanks to Medici!
On the first day in Florence,
- Visit the Uffizi Gallery. It is a Renaissance art museum and is one of the popular places in Florence. Tickets are usually sold out for days, so ensure you book it ahead of time.
- Uffizi is located near the Piazza Della Signoria. This is a large public square surrounded by so many iconic Florentian landmarks like the Palazzo Vecchio (town hall today), a copy of Michelangelo’s David statue, fountains and other stunning statues in the adjacent Loggia dei Lanzi, Gucci Garden, and more. This piazza is always buzzing with people and activities.
- Next walk to the Ponte Vecchio bridge for a nice sunset view. This medieval arch bridge was built over the Arno River, and is an important city landmark. For the next views of the bridge, head over to the nearby Trinita bridge!
Sign off for the day with a lovely meal by the Florence Duomo. You will also find a lot of trattorias near the cathedral and Ponte Vecchio for dinner.
Day 7 of Italy Itinerary 10 days: Explore more of Florence
Explore more of Firenze on day 7. We recommend visiting Galleria dell’Accademia – or Accademia Gallery, the other must-visit museum in Florence, along with the iconic Duomo and the Piazza Michelangelo.
- Wander through Piazza del Duomo, and admire the Florence Cathedral, the Cupola del Brunelleschi, the Giotto’s Campanile, the Florence Baptistery, and the Arcivescovile and Canonici’s palace. Visiting the interiors and Duomo rooftop is optional, especially as you only have a day here
- From the Duomo Square, walk over to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see the original statue of Michelangelo’s David and other exhibits. Book your tickets here
- After the gallery, you can sit down for lunch nearby or head to the San Lorenzo Market or Mercato Centrale
- Complete your sightseeing in Florence by soaking in the sunset view from Piazza Michelangelo. To get to the viewing platform, you will have to hike/climb a series to steps, but we promise the view is worth all the effort!
You can hang out there for the evening, or return back to the centre for dinner!
Day 8 of the 10 day Italy Itinerary: Back to Rome and the Vatican City
Almost at the home stretch here. From Florence make your way back to Rome, and this time to visit the Vatican City, the world’s smallest microstate.
Florence to Rome is 1.50 hours by high-speed train.
From Santa Novella, you will arrive at the Roma Termini. You can leave your bags at the station storage or check in at a hotel.
Rome Hotels: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
To explore the highlights of the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo you will need about 6 hours. If planning to just explore them from the outside 2+ hours is all you need.
- At the Vatican, step inside the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter or Saint Peter’s Basilica. You can enter the basilica for free, but there is a 10 euro entry fee to access the rooftop
- Also located at the square are the famous Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Here is a guided tour that takes you to both sites. It is a fast track entry as well so you won’t be waiting in line for long! Book this 2 hour tour
- Then make your way to Castel Sant’Angelo. Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as called Hadrianeum was the former resting place or mausoleum of the Roman emperor Hadrian. It was later converted into a fortress in the 5th century. Here is an entry ticket to the castle (1 hour) to admire Renaissance frescoes and the view River Tiber from the museum
Day 9 of the 10 day Italy Itinerary: Rome to Naples for Amalfi Coast
It is so easy and convenient to get to Naples and Amalfi Coast from Rome. Nowadays there are a plethora of day tours available as well taking you to Pompeii Ruins and Amalfi or Positano.
When visiting during the offseason, a full day tour is not a bad idea. It won’t be warm for sunbathing, nor will you find all restaurants to be open, especially in smaller towns or even Positano. On a day tour, you will get a good glimpse of Amalfi and later you can come back for an extended trip.
Note that the Amalfi town is best to visit all year round, there are historical sites, churches, and shops all open.
As we mentioned this itinerary sample is a fast-paced one, so if you are keen on exploring the coast, we say let’s do IT!
From Rome, take a train to Naples. High-speed trains take 1.50 hours to get there. From Naples, you can visit the Amalfi via Trenitalia’s regional trains. Plan to arrive at Vietri Sul Mare which has a train station. Trains take an hour to get there.
We recommend staying in Naples so that it is easier to get back on day 10 – to Rome to fly out. Hotels for Naples
- UNAHOTELS: Stay at this nice, clean, and well-furnished hotel – UNAHOTELS Napoli, as it is located only 8 minute walk away from the train station. The hotel offers free breakfast and has a rooftop terrace with views of Mount Vesuvius. Book your stay here
- Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo: This is a stunning 4 star hotel with a nice pool, terrace with views, and a garden. The rooms are nice, and clean. Check out photos here
Once you arrive in Vietri Sul Mare, head to one of the cleanest beaches on the Amalfi – Spiaggia Della Crestarella. This is a sandy beach and is private, and you can rent sunbeds and an umbrella for the day.
After beach time, go ceramic shopping, and stop by the Church of San Giovanni Battista or the Cathedral of Vietri. When you head to the train station to leave this pretty town, wait a moment and soak in the views before you depart for Naples.
Day 10 of the 10 day Italy Itinerary: Amalfi Town, and back to Rome
To get to Amalfi town, you can take the train from Naples to Vietri Sul Mare, and then a bus to reach Amalfi town centre. It will take about 2+ hours, one way. You can skip the bus, and instead hire a taxi to reach Amalfi in 20 minutes.
A cab or a private car is a good option to consider if you have to return to Rome the same day.
We personally liked the Amalfi town for sightseeing and cafes. Here is what you can explore on a day trip,
- Relax or enjoy a stroll at the Marina Grande, which is Amalfi’s main beach. In the busy summer months, it is very crowded and hard to find a place, but it looks so pretty with the colorful umbrellas and the houses as its background. The beach is accessible from the town centre, and the transport station.
- Admire the stunning beach and the steep cliffs surrounding the Amalfi town, which was the seat of maritime power in the 9th and 11th centuries
- Visit the Duomo di Amalfi with its unique striped Byzantine facade. Head to the top of the cathedral for amazing views
- Take the time to wander the town, eat and shop
After sightseeing, you can return to Naples, and from there make connections to Rome.
Best of Cities: A Classic Italy Itinerary 10 days
Our second 10 day Italy itinerary sample is all about the major cities. This version is a much more relaxed option, however, it still covers a lot of ground in each of the major tourist destinations in Italy!
- Day 1: Rome
- Day 2: Vatican City & Rome
- Day 3: Rome
- Day 4: Venice
- Day 5: Venice
- Day 6: Milan
- Day 7: Milan
- Day 8: Florence
- Day 9: Florence
- Day 10: Pisa & Rome
Arrive in Rome for this best of cities 10 days in Italy Itinerary.
- From Roma Fiumicino Airport, get to the city centre via direct train service – Leonardo Express (30 minutes), or shuttle buses (40+ minutes)
- If arriving at the Ciampino Airport, then you can book this shuttle bus ride
Day 1 – 3 of 10 days in Italy Itinerary: Rome and the Vatican
Where to stay in Rome: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
On day one of your Italy itineraries, visit the iconic landmarks of Rome (such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum), and then pick a neighborhood in the afternoon/evening to explore. Monti or the neighborhood of Trastevere (“beyond the Tiber”) are great options.
Head to the Vatican City on day two, and visit the St Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican museums with a guide (Book this 2 hour tour). Visit the Castel Sant’Angelo for an hour, and then make your way to the heart of Rome.
Check off the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Spend the evening – eating and shopping at the Square of Spain!
On the third day, visit the Pantheon, followed by the Piazza Navona. In the afternoon visit Villa Borghese.
Depart for Venice in the evening, via high-speed train.
Day 4 – 5 of 10 days in Italy Itinerary: Venice
Where to stay in Venice?: Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection | Hotel Campiello | Campanile Venice Mestre
Wake up to the views of the Grand Canal in Venice, and enjoy a wander through the various neighborhoods on day one. Visit the Piazza San Marco, and the Doge Palace in the afternoon.
Go on a private gondola ride (45 minutes) in the evening.
On day two in Venice, head to the Venetian Islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello. We recommend booking a tour so that can explore without hassles (in 5.5 to 6 hours).
Return to Venice. Spend the evening, enjoying a lovely dinner by the canal, or go shopping.
Day 6 – 7 of 10 days in Italy Itinerary: Milan
Venice to Milan is 2.50 hours by high-speed train.
Where to stay in Milan? Starhotels Anderson | Park Hyatt Milan | c-Hotel Atlantic Milano
Visit the beautiful city of Milan on days 6 and 7 of the Italy itinerary. Milan is one of the wealthiest cities in the European Union. It is home to the Duomo which is one of the iconic landmarks of Italy, and the third-largest in the world, that should not be missed on your trip.
On your first day in Milan, visit the Duomo and head to the rooftop terrace. You can book the tickets here.
Make your way to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in the Piazza Duomo, which is the world’s oldest shopping mall.
See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan’s Santa Maria Delle Grazie. This is one of the popular attractions in the city. Ensure you book your tickets early.
When it comes to fashion, design, and shopping you cannot beat Milan’s districts. Do set aside time for (window) shopping in places like the Via Montenapoleone, and the famous Quadrilatero Della Moda.
On the second day, visit Europe’s richest business district aka Porta Nuova, and admire the Vertical Forest aka Garden Houses.
Next, explore the Navigli canal district, and maybe enjoy a river sightseeing cruise. Finish sightseeing at the Sforzesco Castle and Sempione Park.
Day 8 – 9 of 10 days in Italy Itinerary: Florence
Start for Florence from Milan. Milan to Florence is 1.50 hours by high-speed train.
Where to stay in Florence?: La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
Known for Renaissance museums, art, and culture, Florence is one of the most stunning cities in Italy. Being a popular destination, we recommend that you book your tickets to visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia, ahead of time.
Apart from the museums, you can pick a few piazzas and wander about soaking in the architecture and artistic vibes of Florence.
Admire the Florence Duomo, and climb to the top for some amazing views of the city.
If you like viewpoints, Piazza Michelangelo is not to be missed! This is a free attraction and we highly recommend visiting for sunset!
Other attractions in Florence for a 2-day itinerary include the Ponte Vecchio, Mercato Centrale Firenze (market), and Santa Maria Novella.
Day 10 of 10 days in Italy Itinerary: Day trip to Pisa, back to Rome
Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, this Tuscan city is only an hour away from Florence. You can visit Pisa on a half-day tour or train. Trains take an hour to get there.
BOOK: Pisa half day tour from Florence
Pisa is a historic city, well known for the Leaning Tower, and as a center of medieval art.
The main attractions in Pisa include these 4 monuments located at the Campo dei Miracoli in Pisa or the Square of Miracles. These are the Cathedral of Pisa (Il Duomo di Pisa), the Baptistry, the Bell Tower of Pisa, and the Monumental Cemetery.
Along with the ornate medieval buildings, the square is also lined with cafés and souvenir shops.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa dates back to the 14th century, and of course well known for being unstable, and its ‘leaning’ nature. The cathedral and baptistery located at the complex are also sinking along with the bell tower.
So the original height of the Tower of Pisa was 60 meters, and now its height is 56.67m on the highest side and 55,86m on the lowest side.
When we visited, I had no idea that people were allowed inside the tower, and to the top. So yes you can buy an entry ticket to the top. There are 250 steps to get there!
After exploring Pisa, return to Florence, and make your way to Rome to fly out.
Rome & Tuscany Italy Itinerary 10 days
Our personal favorite is the region of Tuscany in Italy. From perfect landscapes to art, cuisines, wines, and living/breathing history, a 10 day Rome Florence, and Tuscany itinerary will melt your heart.
This itinerary allows you to take it slow, especially in Tuscany, and enjoy the lovely small towns, filling up your hearts and bellies. We will incorporate Rome into this trip as well so that you can explore the historical capital city after arriving in Italy.
You can follow this itinerary as a road trip or use public transportation. Here is how this 10 day Italy itinerary will look like,
- Day 1: Rome
- Day 2: Rome
- Day 3: Rome
- Day 4: Florence
- Day 5: Florence
- Day 6: Pisa day trip
- Day 7: San Gimigano day trip
- Day 8: Chianti wine tour
- Day 9: Explore Siena for a day
- Day 10: Vatican City
Just like the previous Italian itineraries in this travel guide, arrive in Rome at one of these airports to kickstart your vacation.
- From Roma Fiumicino Airport, get to the city center via direct train service – Leonardo Express (30 minutes), or shuttle buses (40+ minutes)
- If arriving at the Ciampino Airport, then you can book this shuttle bus ride
Day 1 to 3 of Italy Itinerary: Arrive and explore Rome
Where to stay in Rome: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
Discover all the iconic landmarks of Rome in 3 days. Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour, and then pick a neighborhood in the afternoon/evening to explore. Monti or the neighborhood of Trastevere (“beyond the Tiber”) are great options.
On day 2 in Rome, visit the Castel Sant’Angelo for an hour, and then make your way to the heart of the city to explore the Trevi Fountain, the famous Spanish Steps, and relax at the Square of Spain (note that this itinerary is more relaxed than the previous one, as we left out the Vatican).
On the third day, visit the Pantheon, followed by the Piazza Navona. In the afternoon visit Villa Borghese, and finish at Piazza Venezia (paid to go inside) or Piazza del Popolo (free) for sunset views.
Day 4 to 9 of Italy Itinerary: Head to Florence and explore Tuscany
Depart for Florence in the morning, via high-speed train. Trains take 1.50 hours to get there.
For this itinerary, plan to stay in Florence for the entire duration and venture on day trips to get to Siena and central Tuscany.
On days 4 and 5, spend time exploring Renaissance art and structures in Florence. Visit both the Uffizi and the Accademia galleries, Firenze Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio & Loggia dei Lanzi, and the Gucci Garden.
Then check off the Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazza Michelangelo, and the Central Market in Florence.
For day 6 – Go on a day trip to Pisa from Florence, to see the Leaning Tower, Baptistry, and the Cathedral. From Santa Maria Novela, it is one hour train ride away.
You can also book this as a half day tour.
After Pisa, enjoy a wine tour in Tuscany on day 7. Florence to Chianti is 1.25 hours by train. There are also multiple wine tours available that you can embark on, which include multiple tastings, an optional lunch, and a round trip.
On day 8, explore the cute town of San Gimignano on a day trip.
San Gimignano is a hill town that oozes everything that is quintessentially Toscana – pretty lanes, views, wines, and stunning medieval architecture!
Here is what you can do in San Gimignano
- Wander the town centre: The Historic Centre of San Gimignano is a cultural site of exceptional value having preserved many of its architectural for centuries
- Admire the architecture: The buildings in San Gimignano are located within the town’s double wall or fortress. These structures reflect the stunning medieval architectural gems with influences of Florentine, Sienese, and Pisan styles from the 12th to the 14th century
- Town hall exhibits: Take the time to visit the Palazzo Comunale or the Town Hall and check historical exhibits
- Visit the cathedral: Admire the frescoes inside the Cathedral of San Gimignano
- Crafts and cafes: Although a small town, you will find lots of shops and cafes in San Gimignano. There is also a nice winery called the La Marronaia
On day 9 of your Italy itinerary, visit Siena. Florence to Siena is 1.25 hours by train.
Siena is famous for its cuisine, art, museums, medieval cityscape, and the Palio, a horse race held twice a year in Piazza del Campo.
Here is what you can do in one day in Siena,
- Duomo di Siena: Visit the Siena Cathedral and admire the beautiful marble work. This Duomo has a lot of similarities with the Firenze Cathedral in its outer appearance
- Piazza del Campo: Piazza del Campo is the central square of Siena with the palace, town hall, and a 14th century tower that oozes charming medieval grandeur and tenacity, no wonder this site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Palazzo Pubblico: Take a look at the Palazzo Pubblico (palace) dating back to the 13th century. It has served as the seat of the Republic of Siena’s government
- Basilica of San Domenico: Visit the Basilica of San Domenico, which is home to beautiful frescoes inside. The basilica is a stunning structure to photograph at sunset.
- Horse race: Siena hosts a horse race, called the Palio, in which various Sienese “contrade” (quarters) compete with each other at the Piazza del Campo. This annual event takes place in the summer months (July and August)
Day 10 of Italy Itinerary: Back to Rome. Explore The Vatican
On day 10, return to Rome.
4-6 hours in Rome is good enough time to visit the 3 landmarks in the Vatican – St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel (along with travel time from Roma Termini). For the latter, you can also book a 2 hour guided tour
In the evening, explore the neighborhood of Monti, shop, and bid adieu to Roma!
Itinerary for 10 days in Italy and Microstates
This 10 days in Italy itinerary covers 3 cities and 3 European microstates. In Europe, there are 6 recognized micro-states
- Vatican City
- Andorra
- Liechtenstein
- Monaco
- San Marino
- Malta.
We have visited 5 out of the 6 (hopefully Malta will be checked off next year). The microstates of Vatican City, Malta, and San Marino are best explored from Italy.
The Principality of Monaco can be visited from southern France or Italy.
Here is how this 10 day Italy itinerary will look like,
- Day 1: Rome
- Day 2: Vatican City and Rome
- Day 3: Rome
- Day 4: Milan
- Day 5: Milan
- Day 6: Monte Carlo, Monaco
- Day 7: Florence
- Day 8: Florence
- Day 9: San Marino
- Day 10: Day trip to Pisa and back to Rome
All of the microstates can be explored as day trips via train travel, and along the way, you can also admire other Italian towns.
Day 1 – 3 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Rome. The Vatican. Rome
Arrive in one of Rome’s airports. Getting to the city centre from the airport
- From Roma Fiumicino Airport, get to the city centre via direct train service – Leonardo Express (30 minutes), or shuttle buses (40+ minutes)
- If arriving at the Ciampino Airport, then you can book this shuttle bus ride
Where to stay in Rome: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
On day one, check off the iconic landmarks of Rome (such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum), and then pick a neighborhood in the afternoon/evening to explore. Like Monti or the neighbourhood of Trastevere (“beyond the Tiber”).
Head to the world’s smallest country – the Vatican City on day two. Explore the St Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican museums with a guide (Book this 2 hour tour). Visit the Castel Sant’Angelo for an hour, and then make your way to the heart of Rome.
Check off the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Spend the evening – eating and shopping at the Square of Spain!
On the third day, visit the Pantheon, followed by the Piazza Navona. In the afternoon visit Villa Borghese.
Enjoy a lovely sunset at the Piazza del Popolo – the People’s Square. Piazza del Popolo is the largest square in Rome. It is home to three churches and two fountains, namely the Fountain of Neptune, and Goddess Roma. You will also find a stunning Flaminio obelisk at the center.
For sunset views climb up to the Pincio Terrace, to soak the panorama of Rome in all its glory!
Day 4 – 5 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Milan Sightseeing
Rome to Milan is 3.50 hours by train. You will have to set aside some travel time on this day, and then explore Milan in the afternoon.
Where to stay in Milan? Starhotels Anderson | Park Hyatt Milan | c-Hotel Atlantic Milano
On your first day in Milan, visit the Duomo and head to the rooftop terrace. You can book the tickets here.
Make your way to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in the Piazza Duomo, which is the world’s oldest shopping mall.
From there head to the Brera district to check out chic boutiques and restaurants!
On the second day, visit Sforzesco Castle and Sempione Park. In the afternoon, see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan’s Santa Maria Delle Grazie. This is one of the popular attractions in the city. Ensure you book your tickets early.
Sign off for the day by shopping at one of these fashionable quarters – Via Manzoni, Via Della Spiga, Corso Venezia, and Via Montenapoleone
Day 6 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Monte Carlo, Monaco
Although best explored from southern France, you can visit the Principality of Monaco on a day trip from Milan.
Monaco is the second smallest country in the world and is well known for the Monte Carlo Casino, Grand Prix, and Grace Kelly! This sovereign state is also known to be the world’s smallest monarchy.
How to get to Monaco? From Milan, take the train to Ventimiglia, and then to Monte Carlo These are regional trains by Trenitalia.
Here is what you can explore on a day trip to Monaco,
- Admire the Casino architecture: The Monte Carlo Casino is a gambling and entertainment complex comprising of a casino, the Opéra, and the office of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo. It is one of the stunning structures in principality.
- Stroll the waterfront and check out fancy yachts!
- Port Hercules: Head over to the port area, and sit down for a nice meal.
- Visit the gardens: There are 2 gardens that we really loved exploring in Monaco. Jardin Exotique de Monaco (beautiful garden located on the cliffside), and Princess Antoinette Park (with hundred-year-old olive trees).
- Visit Sainte-Dévote Chapel: This chapel is dedicated to Saint Devota, the patron saint of Monaco.
- Vue Panoramique sur Monaco: Picturesque viewpoint.
- Other attractions include: Musée océanographique de Monaco, Prince’s Palace of Monaco, shop at Shopping Promenade.
To make the most of your day, buy a hop-on and hop-off sightseeing ticket – Monaco le grand tour. This way many of the attractions can be accessed easily. Tickets can be bought from the bus (use a credit card) at the first stop – Bateau Bus.
Day 7 – 8 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Florence
Start for Florence from Milan on day 7. Milan to Florence is 1.50 hours by high-speed train.
Where to stay in Florence?: La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
In 2 days in Florence itinerary, visit one or both of the Renaissance museums Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia. Do book tickets ahead of time, as they are usually sold out days in advance.
Admire the Florence Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) and climb to the top for some amazing views of the city.
Other attractions in Florence include Piazza Michelangelo, the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Pitti Palace, Mercato Centrale Firenze (market), and Santa Maria Novella.
Day 9 of Italy 10 Itinerary: San Marino
San Marino is a microstate and is best explored from Italy (Florence). Of all the microstates we visited, San Marino really stood out due to the slopes, forts, and overall mountainous terrain.
San Marino is also regarded to be one of the world’s oldest republics, and when you visit you will love how most of the historical architecture has been preserved.
How to get to San Marino?
Take the train from Florence to Rimini, and then ride the San Marino bus (near the train station. Landmark: Napoleon Hotel). The bus ride is about 50 minutes. And from there it is just a short walk to the centre.
For your return trip depending on the train tickets and availability, you might have to change trains in Bologna and then to Florence.
These are the things to see in San Marino,
- Three Towers: The Three Towers of San Marino refer to a group of towers located on the three peaks of Monte Titano, dating back to the 11th century. You can see them when at the capital city (also called San Marino)
- Walk the old town: Wander the medieval walled old town and narrow cobblestone streets of San Marino
- Guaita Tower: Guaita is one of three peaks which overlooks the city of San Marino
- Monte Titano: This is the highest peak in San Marino. There you can see a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription, title “San Marino Historic Centre and Mount Titano”.
- The Basilica di San Marino: Catholic church
- The Palazzo Pubblico: This is the town hall of the City of San Marino
Day 10 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Pisa. Return to Rome
Go on a day trip to Pisa to admire the Leaning Tower. You can visit Pisa on a half-day tour or train from Florence. Trains take an hour to get there.
BOOK: Pisa half day tour from Florence
The main attractions in Pisa are all located at the Campo dei Miracoli in Pisa or the Square of Miracles. These are the Cathedral of Pisa (Il Duomo di Pisa), the Baptistry, the Bell Tower of Pisa, and the Monumental Cemetery.
On a half-day tour, you can explore all, including the cathedral, and then return to Florence. From there make your way to Rome to fly out.
Northern Italy Itinerary 10 days
Just like Tuscany, the northern part of Italy has its own unique charm and in 10 days, you can discover popular cities and natural sites with stunning landscapes.
For this Italy 10 day itinerary, plan to arrive in Milan. Milan Malpensa Airport is the largest and one of the busiest airports in the country. Here is a direct transfer between the airport and center
You can also take the train to get to the Central station.
- Day 1: Milan
- Day 2: Milan
- Day 3: Lake Como
- Day 4: Bergamo
- Day 5: Verona
- Day 6: Cinque Terre
- Day 7: Cinque Terre
- Day 8: Venice
- Day 9: Venetian Islands
- Day 10: Back to Milan (optional Dolomites day trip)
This can be done as a 10 day road trip Italy itinerary.
Day 1 – 2 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Milan
Milan is one of the wealthiest cities in the European Union, and the capital of the Lombardy region. Milan is home to the Duomo, which is one of the iconic landmarks of Italy, and the third-largest in the world, which should not be missed on your trip.
Where to stay in Milan? Starhotels Anderson | Park Hyatt Milan | c-Hotel Atlantic Milano
For accommodation, you can either stay at the city center – Zone 1 of Milan, Duomo, or the central station.
On your first day in Milan, visit the Duomo and head to the rooftop terrace. You can book the tickets here.
Make your way to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in the Piazza Duomo, which is the world’s oldest shopping mall. See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan’s Santa Maria Delle Grazie, one of the popular attractions in the city.
On the second day, visit Europe’s richest business district aka Porta Nuova, and admire the Vertical Forest aka Garden Houses.
Next, explore the Navigli canal district, maybe enjoy a river sightseeing cruise. Finish sightseeing at the Sforzesco Castle and the Sempione Park.
Milanese cuisine is amazing. Whether you like to cook, eat, or both, do book a food tour to enjoy.
If you wish to shop, nothing can beat Milan’s districts. Do set aside time for (window) shopping in places like the Via Montenapoleone, and the famous Quadrilatero Della Moda.
Day 3 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Lake Como
Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy. For centuries Lake Como has been a popular retreat for the wealthy and today it is flocked by celebrities.
You can go on a Lake Como day trip by car (1 hour), or train (2 hours). There are also tons of tours combining Lake Garda and Bellagio commune that you can check out.
In Como, you can go on a walking tour of the scenic town center, admire the scenic nature and art! There were many great poets and artists who were inspired by the beauty of Como’s fairytale atmosphere.
On this day tour, you can enjoy a cruise up the lake to Bellagio, which is known as the “Pearl of the Lake”.
More tour options are below,
Day 4 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Bergamo
The mountain town (home) of Bergamo makes for a nice day trip from Milan. You can reach there in an hour by car, or by train.
Bergamo is filled with picturesque Venetian walls and pretty cobblestone streets. It is one of the four historic cities of the Lombardy region and is an artistic treasure. Here is what you must not miss in Bergamo
- Piazza Vecchia: This is the central square of the city, and it is home to medieval and Renaissance architecture.
- The church of Santa Maria Maggiore: Known as the “Chapel of the city”, it is a heritage treasure.
- The Campanone: Climb the Campanone in the old town for some epic views in Bergamo.
- The Cittadella: Fortification from were the Visconti family rules.
Day 5 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Verona
Always associated with Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a picturesque city in northern Italy. It is about an hour and a half by train to get to Verona from Milan.
In Verona,
- Wander the Piazza delle Erbe: Historical town centre and forum since Roman Empire times
- Visit Juliet’s House
- Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore: Admire its Romanesque architecture
- Torre dei Lamberti: Viewpoint
Day 6 – 7 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Cinque Terre
The Italian Riviera can be explored on a short 2 day trip from Milan. In 2 days in Cinque Terre, you can relax at the beach, eat and go on a hike or two.
There are five in Cinque Terre – Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare. All are beautiful and are located near each other so they can be explored in 2 days.
To get to Cinque Terre, take the train from Milan to Monterosso. This town will be the closest to Milan. Another option is to take the train to or La Spezia.
Start your sightseeing in Monterosso. This town has a large beach right outside the train station, so you can stay here and start exploring.
From Monterosso, you can take the 5 Terre Express train to reach other villages in just a few minutes. You can also buy a hop-on-hop-off travel card at the station to travel between villages.
Alternately, you can hike to the next village, Vernazza which is also known for a lovely beach. You’ll have to climb 550 steps along the way, but the uninterrupted views are worth it!
On day 2 of the Cinque Terre itinerary, visit the colorful village of Riomaggiore. Soak in the sun at the Riomaggiore beach in the morning, and then by noon head to Manarola. Opt for a nice lunch with village and coast views.
Complete your sightseeing in Cinque Terre by soaking in the sunset from Corniglia. Head to Saint Mary’s Terrace for that postcard view of the village!
If you wish to hike on day two (like most people do), you can hike from one village to the next, as Cinque Terre National Park has plenty of trails that crisscross through the wilderness.
Day 8 – 9 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Venice
Where to stay in Venice?: Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection | Hotel Campiello | Campanile Venice Mestre
Spend 2 days in Venice exploring various neighborhoods along the Grand Canal. Visit the Piazza San Marco, and the Doge Palace, and go on a private gondola ride (45 minutes).
Use the second day in Venice, to explore the nearby Venetian Islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello. We recommend booking a tour so that can explore without hassles.
After the tour, take a train to return to Venice. Or stay overnight in Venice and return to Milan the next day to fly out.
Day 10 of Italy 10 Itinerary: Dolomites day trip from Venice
This addition to the 10 day itinerary for Italy is optional. From Venice, you can join a day tour to get a glimpse of the UNESCO-listed Dolomite Mountains.
This is a full-day tour that includes a round trip, guide-led sightseeing of the mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo along with free time for you to explore. You can eat or go shopping in elegant boutiques in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Other attractions include are – Lake Misurina as well as the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks. They also stop at seasonal areas like Lake Braies (winter/spring) and Lake Misurina (summer).
It is a small group tour of 8 people. Book it here
Italy Travel Guide & Travel Tips for your Italian Vacation
Italy is a European Union member and uses euros as the official currency.
In terms of travel documents if your passport is not visa-exempt, then you will require a Schengen visa to enter and visit Italy (this also includes the microstates mentioned in this post).
For citizens of the United States and Canada, no visa is required for staying up to 90 days in Italy for tourism purposes.
What is the best month to go to Italy?
The best time to visit Italy is during spring and fall. During this time the temperatures are pleasant and you can also expect fewer crowds especially in major cities and the coast.
April, May, mid-September, and October are good months to visit Italy to beat the crowds.
It is also possible to find better accommodation and tour deals in the offseason. The cheapest flight tickets can be found in the low tourist season from November to mid-December, and January through March 31.
What to pack for 10 days in Italy?
All the popular destinations in Italy are touristy, and visitors are expected. You can mingle and enjoy your time there by packing and wearing stylish outfits, accessories with nice belts and hats!
The vibe in Italian cities is relaxed, but oh-so-classy! Avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless outfits if you are planning to enter churches. Do not carry big bags to tourist attractions as you might face difficulty in storing or passing security.
Items to pack for Italy,
- Universal travel adaptor: Europe uses a plug with two round pins (type C), unlike the flat ones in North America. So carry your universal adaptor
- Travel insurance (medical, trip cancellations, etc): You can get a quote in minutes from Worlds Nomad Insurance
- Essential documents: City Pass, flight tickets, passport and visa, tour and hotel confirmation
- Outfits for the trip: For 10 days, pack
- 3-6 tops or shirts
- 3 dresses
- 2-3 bottoms (or skirts)
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes, or hiking shoes
- 1 set of beachwear (coast)
- Required cosmetics and medication
- Do travel light
Taking trains in Italy: 10 days Italy itinerary
The train is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel around Italy. You can use high-speed trains to connect to major cities (Milan-Rome-Venice-Florence), or use regional (cheaper, but takes longer time) ones.
There are 3 options for train passes
- Italy Eurail Pass
- Trenitalia Pass
- Eurail Global Pass valid in 33 countries
You don’t have to take the train all time, we used day tours for certain places as it was more convenient.
Before you buy a pass, you can calculate the trips you are doing, and where you wish to take a tour instead. A pass may not be always worth it, as you do need to reserve your seat on high-speed trains. For major cities, we used high-speed trains only.
What to eat in Italy?
Italian cuisine is full of flavorful dishes, from something sweet to wine. In Italy, culinary traditions and delicacies change as you move from region to region. So the pizza you eat in Roma (Rome) is so different from Napoli (Naples), so you gotta try it ALL :
Here are some of the Italian foods to have to eat
- Risotto: Risotto is special rice, and in most restaurants, you will be able to order one. Risotto alla Milanese aka Saffron risotto is the most famous. Risotto ai funghi is delicious too.
- Lasagna: This classic dish from Naples is composed of layered lasagne noodles with tomato or meat sauce, and ricotta cheese.
- Gnocchi: Originating in the Lombardy region, gnocchi is billowy dumplings are mashed up potatoes mixed with whole grain flour. It’s delicious and so filling!
- Tiramisu: This Italian coffee-flavored dessert must not be missed!
- Pizza: There are two types of pizza to choose from in Italy: Neopolitan-style pizza, or Roman-style pizza. The former has a thick, fluffy crust, and it is smaller in diameter. And Roman-style pizza is has a paper-thin crust. We tried both, I prefer Roman-style!
- Gelato: No trip to Italy is complete without gelato! Gelato has less fat than ice cream, I also found it to be less sweet (which I like)
- Digestivo: There are many kinds in Italy, and limoncello is probably the most recognizable.
- Drinks: Italian coffee is addictive and SOOO good! Moka, Cappuccino chiaro, Marocchino, Barley Coffee, and latte. Tuscan wines are popular, we did a Chianti wine tour, it was awesome. Aperol spritz (drank before a meal) was too bitter for me on the first try, but after the 5-6th you tend to appreciate the bitter-sweet!
Did you know? Italy is the largest rice producer in Europe!
When you are traveling through Italy, try all of these dishes and drinks. We recommend opting for a fancy ristorante on one night, and a trattoria on another to experience many things. Trattoria is a less formal eating place.
In Italian restaurants, you will have to pay a “fee to sit down” in a restaurant, called pane e coperto. It is perfectly normal and unavoidable. This fee goes to the restaurant and is not a tip for your server. Most trattorias didn’t have this charge, as we were standing, chilling, and eating (no sitting).
How many days is enough for Italy?
Italy as a country and tourist attraction is expansive with so many things to see and do. But if you carefully choose a region or a mix of destinations then you can easily explore them properly in 14 days or 2 weeks.
Italy has an awesome network of high-speed trains between big cities, and tons of regional trains with good frequency. And this definitely reduces travel time, allowing you to see more in less time. Not to forget being a touristy destination, Italy offers a lot of day tours making it easy to check out highlights in various places, comfortably!