Italy is a destination that seduces. It is a destination of wonderful food and wine, incomparable art and architecture, stunning landscapes, and warm and friendly people.
This 10 day itinerary takes you through the very best of Italy while giving you a taste of the local life in each of your stops. It’s for first-timers with a bit of everything.
This itinerary is written for ease and logic with all transport options included, and it will provide a foundation to ensure you have a fun, educational, moving experience in this spectacular country.
Overview of the Itinerary
1. Day 1–2: Rome – The Eternal City
Begin in Rome, one of the most historic cities in the world. Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain and go up the Spanish Steps. Don’t miss Vatican City to see St, Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
2. Day 3: Florence – Renaissance and Art
You can hop on a high-speed train for 1.5 hours to get to Renaissance Florence to experience its rivaling Duomo and Uffizi Gallery. Stroll the Ponte Vecchio, view Michelangelo’s David, and visit Piazzale Michelangelo for stunning views of the city.
3. Day 4: Day Trip from Florence – Tuscan Countryside
Take a day trip to the Tuscany landscape, where you can take in the scenery and some typical Tuscan cuisine. Go to Pisa, Siena, or even the Chianti wine valley.
Take a wine tour with a smaller group or drive around in a car and unwind with the rolling hills and towns.
4. Day 5–6: Venice – Romance and Canals
Visit Venice, home of romance and the gondola. Take a ride, see St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and cross the Rialto.
Get lost in the back canals, sample some cichetti, and spend the night to experience the sleepy Venice after the day-trippers depart.
5. Day 7: Verona or Lake Garda (Optional Detour)
You can spend your day in either romantic Verona, where you can find Juliet’s balcony and a Roman Arena, or Lake Garda, which features a few castles, boat rides, and lakeside walking.
6. Day 8–9: Milan – Fashion and Modern Culture
Milan is the Italian capital of fashion and design. Take a guided tour of the Milan Cathedral, shop the boutiques in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and see Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
7. Day 10: Departure or Final Stroll
Spend your morning at the market or a local cafe. Buy a small memento (such as olive oil or wine) from the region before you leave. If you have a very early flight, drive to either Milan or Rome airport.
Day 1–2: Rome – The Eternal City
Take in the temptation of Rome, a city whose long history is alive in cobbled piazzas piazza sinuously woven into its fabric.
Enter the Colosseum to learn about Roman history up close. Stroll through the Roman Forum where victors and vanquished paraded against a backdrop of architectural splendor.
Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain Drink and make a wish. Walk up the Spanish Steps, gaze at the Pantheon.
Vatican Visit: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums
You can’t visit Rome without visiting The Vatican. The dome of St Peter’s Basilica alone, the jewel of Renaissance architecture, is worth the trip.
Surrounding it is the Vatican Museums, home to the most amazing art in the world, including the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo’s ceiling will blow your mind.
Accommodation Tips
Your Roman holiday will be much more enjoyable if you can base yourself somewhere central.
Try the lively Trastevere district, famous for its nightlife and traditional Trattorias. Or, there’s Piazza Navona, with its winding streets that will transport you back to ancient Rome.
Both make getting around the city and experiencing local culture a breeze.
Day 3: Florence – Renaissance and Art
You’re heading to Florence via high-speed train and will be in the birthplace of the Renaissance within just 1.5 hours.
This train journey takes you directly into an art and history wonderland, and by the time you reach Florence, you are ready to hit the ground running. Florence is a living work of art, and with every turn there is something new to see.
Highlights: Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo’s David
The Duomo is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, and its giant dome is the crown jewel in the city’s skyline. Second, stop by the Uffizi Gallery.
If you love art, this is paradise, filled with the works of greats such as Botticelli and da Vinci. And be sure to take a walk on the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with shops.
And, last but not least, you can’t leave Florence without seeing Michelangelo’s David, an iconic statue that truly represents the soul of the city.
Local experience: Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
End your day with a leisurely strollto Piazzale Michelangelo.
It’s uphill but well worth it, as you’ll catch an amazing panoramic view of the sunset behind the city. The setting sun illuminates the shimmering lights of the city, showcasing all that is wonderful about Florence.
Take it all in — it’s one of those life memories you’ll never forget. And it’s a great way to end your day in this fabulous town.
Tip: Pre-book museum tickets; explore on foot or by bike
It’s a good idea to book your museum tickets in advance so that you don’t have to wait in line for too long (Florence is VERY popular).
Walking is the best way to experience the city, as you will find lots of neat things while wandering down its smaller lanes.
If you prefer a quicker method of transportation, rent a bike and ride through the city.
Day 4: Day Trip from Florence – Tuscan Countryside
Tuscany is a great excursion outside of Florence; you have three great trips to choose from: Pisa, Siena, or Chianti. All suited to different tastes, all worth a visit. At Pisa, see the Leaning Tower of Pisa (which you must do if you’re in Italy).
Siena is like a giant medieval time warp, with fantastic medieval streets and a gorgeously striking cathedral. And Chianti offers endless opportunities to explore lots of vineyards all day long.
Recommended: Join a Small-Group Wine Tour or Rent a Car
And traveling in a small group provides that intimacy and the ability to learn from local guides who are expert in their region.
On a wine tour, you can sit back and enjoy the tastings without worrying about being behind the wheel; and if you like to go at your own pace, you can rent a car and experience the delightful and winding roads of Tuscany.
Experience: Rolling Hills, Vineyards, Hilltop Towns, and Regional Cuisine
Tuscany is well-known for its rolling hills and infinite vineyards, which promises to delight any nature lover.
But in addition to its scenery, the hilltop towns in Tuscany, such as San Gimignano and Montepulciano, are incredibly picturesque and offer stunning vistas.
While you’re visiting these towns, don’t miss out on the local food.
Tip: Try Local Dishes like Ribollita and Bistecca alla Fiorentina
The Tuscan food scene is going to blow your mind. Make sure you sample some of the local dishes during your time here.
First up, try the ribollita. This hearty soup is full of vegetables, bread, and beans and makes for a tasty, tummy-warming midday meal. Then there’s bistecca alla fiorentina, a huge slab of meat heaven. You won’t want to share.
These will be some of the best dishes you’ll ever eat, especially when they come from one of the many family-owned and family-run trattoria.
Day 5–6: Venice – Romance and Canals
If you still crave more Italy, board the train for the two-hour, 16-minute ride to your final destination: Venice.
As you are whisked through the picturesque country, prepare yourself for a destination unlike any other. Venice is a vibrant city with a truly unique character, and you’re about to see why.
Activities: Gondola Ride, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge
On arrival, be sure to take a gondola ride around the city, drifting through the canals and taking in Venice.
Explore the inside of St. Mark’s Basilica, bask in the glory of the Doge’s Palace, and walk over the Rialto Bridge. These iconic sights provide insight into the history and culture of the city.
Explore: Get Lost in Narrow Alleys and Enjoy Cicchetti (Venetian Tapas)
Spend hours getting lost amid Venice’s labyrinthine lanes.
You never know what you might find at the end of each hallway: a canal, a store, a café, or a piazza. And while you wander, be sure to enjoy some cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a bacari (wine bar).
It’s a great way to try all kinds of food while experiencing a true taste of Venetian cuisine.
Tip: Stay Overnight to Enjoy Venice Without the Day-Trip Crowds
Staying overnight is just a different experience. Once the day trippers head home and the sun sets, the city gets quiet and takes on an almost eerie but beautiful quality.
Nighttime Venice is a much quieter place, when you have this all to yourself and that’s pretty cool. It’s a unique side of the city you don’t want to miss.
Day 7: Verona or Lake Garda (Optional Detour)
For your Day 7 adventure, you’ll have to decide if you’d prefer the romance of Verona or the serenity of Lake Garda.
Verona allows you to experience the setting of Romeo and Juliet. It is home to historic treasures such as Juliet’s balcony and an amazing Roman Arena, as well as its medieval atmosphere, cobblestone streets, and overall historic ambiance.
If you prefer to get some fresh air in a beautiful setting, visit Lake Garda.
This wonderful lake is surrounded by charming villages you can explore with ease. Go for a boat tour and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the largest lake in Italy811, where peace and natural beauty abound.
Whatever you choose —Verona or Lake Garda— getting there is simple.
If you’re coming from Venice, just take a train and in one to two hours you’ll be dropped off. The train is great, and the ride is scenic with lots of countryside to look at. It’s easy and efficient.
Once you arrive, you’ll have all day to do whatever there is to do. After all, neither place is far away.
Day 8–9: Milan – Fashion and Modern Culture
From Verona and Venice, Milan is only a short train ride away.
After a few hours on the tracks, you’ll get off the train right in the thick of things. The ride is easy and offers some picturesque scenes. It’s a little taste of what the country has to offer: a combination of old and new in perfect harmony.
You hop off the train feeling like you’re stepping into a place that’s always alive and cool.
Must-see: Milan Cathedral (Duomo), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle
Milan is a city of towering architecture, highlighted by the impressive Duomo, a Gothic creation that you simply cannot miss.
Take a peek inside at its beautiful interior, and if you’re feeling ambitious you can climb the stairs to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
Not far from there is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an 18th-century structure offering some of the most luxurious shopping in the world.
Also be sure to visit the historic Sforza Castle, which represents the Medieval and Renaissance history of Milan through its museums and gardens.
Optional: View The Last Supper (Book in Advance)
But if you enjoy art in any way, you have to check out The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Just make sure you purchase your tickets early — they go fast for this renowned piece.
It shares a small chapel in the back of a church and people fly in from all over the world to see it. It made Leonardo the genius real to me more so than anything else he ever did.
Shopping: Stroll through Quadrilatero della Moda
For all you shopaholics out there, this is the place for you.
This fashion district is where all the big names have their designer shops and it’s the place to go if you want to do any kind of shopping.
It doesn’t matter if it’s just window shopping, if you’re looking for that special something, or if you just want to soak in all the fashion and style, because it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen.
Just walking down the street is an experience in high fashion, and every one of these little storefronts has an elegant window display.
Tip: Explore the Navigli Area for Nightlife and Aperitivo
And when the sun sets, make your way over to the Navigli area to experience a different side of Milan: its nightlife.
The city is famous for its animated canals, and Navigli offers the best of Milan at night.
Whether you’re hanging out in a charming bar and taking advantage of the aperitivo scene or sitting by the waterside and enjoying a nice meal, the atmosphere here is contagious. Navigli is an entertaining place to end your visit to Milan.
Day 10: Departure or Final Stroll
Early Morning Market or Coffee Near Your Hotel
Use your final morning in Italy to take in some local.
Walk to a market—it’s a great way to experience how the city functions. You can see the locals buying their fresh food for the day, or head to a small café and have one final espresso while you reflect on your trip and life itself.
Buy Local Products to Bring Home: Olive Oil, Wine, Leather Goods
Before you say goodbye, take a moment to do some Italian shopping.
Visit some of the local stores and buy some real olive oil, a bottle of local wine, or locally made leather. These are not just souvenirs; they’re an extension of your trip that you can relive once you get back home.
Every time you make one of these purchases, you are taking a piece of Italy’s rich culture and tradition with you.
Head to Milan or Rome Airport Based on Your Flight
And as your adventure winds down, it’s time to head to the airport.
Depending on whether you’re flying out of Milan or Rome, give yourself plenty of time to get through security and relax in the terminal. Take a moment to think about all the stories and memories you’re bringing with you.
Italy has opened its doors to welcome you, and you’ve no doubt created some unforgettable stories here.
Practical Travel Tips
Transportation
Managing these high-speed trains from Trenitalia and Frecciarossa and Italo in Italy is easy.
These trains are fast, comfortable, and connect most Italian cities and regions. For inter-regional travel, there are passes you can purchase.
Accommodations
When it comes to accommodation, mid-range boutique hotels and B&Bs are best. Try to locate yourself in the center of where you want to be – centrally located areas to the things you want to see and do.
It’s the best way to fully experience a destination.
Language
Though English is widely spoken in Italy, learning some key Italian greetings can win you friends and earn respect.
Packing
Just be sure to bring some comfortable shoes and a reusable water bottle as well, so you can save money and reduce plastic waste.
Also, bring proper attire for churches and religious places as you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees at most.
FAQ
1. When is the best time to visit Italy?
Italy is a popular place to visit year round, but the best times to go are, from April to June, and September-October, for the weather as well as the thinning crowds.
2. Is Italy safe to travel to?
Italy is safe for tourists although take usual precautions, especially in crowded places and while riding public transportation.
3. Are there any etiquette rules to follow in Italy?
It’s customary to say “buongiorno” (good morning) or “buonasera” (good evening), and to follow local etiquette (especially in churches).
4. Are credit cards widely accepted in Italy?
And yes, you can use a card in most cities. However, for small expenditures and in remote regions, carry cash.
5. Can I drive with a foreign driver’s license in Italy?
If you’re an EU resident, show your EU driver’s license. Non-EU travelers will have to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Conclusion
With just ten days in Italy, you can take in its rich history, art, culture, and food on one heck of a whirlwind trip.
From Rome’s ancient wonders to Venice’s charming waterways and wine in Tuscany, this route incapsulates the best of la dolce vita.
Sit back, relax, do as the Italians do, and Italy will be a spark in your travel heart to revisit again later.