Planning a trip to Italy? Look no further! In this comprehensive 10 day Italy itinerary, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the country’s most iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of must-see attractions, hidden gems, and local experiences. So, grab your Italy travel guide, pack your bags with essentials from the Italy packing list, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
10 Days in Italy: Where to go and What to do
- Day 1-3: Rome, Italy
- Day 4-5: Florence, Italy
- Day 6-8: Cinque Terre, Italy
- Day 9-10: Milan, Italy
Summary Itinerary:
Day 1-3: Rome – Immerse yourself in the grandeur of ancient Rome as you visit the iconic Colosseum, explore the Roman Forum, and toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good luck. And of course, you can’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the world-famous Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City.
Day 4-5: Florence – Discover the Renaissance treasures of Florence, including the awe-inspiring Duomo and the enchanting Ponte Vecchio. Spend time exploring the renowned Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Day 6-8: Cinque Terre – Embark on a scenic journey to the picturesque Cinque Terre towns, perched along the rugged Italian Riviera. Hike the breathtaking coastal trails, soak up the sun on the colorful beaches, and indulge in delicious seafood while savoring the charming atmosphere of these coastal gems.
Day 9-10: Milan – Conclude your Italy itinerary with a visit to Milan, the fashion capital of the world. Admire the magnificent architecture of the Duomo di Milano and explore the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Take a stroll through the trendy Brera district and treat yourself to some retail therapy in the fashion-forward Quadrilatero della Moda.
Rome, Italy: The Eternal City
Start your Italian adventure in the glorious capital, Rome. With its ancient ruins, vibrant piazzas, and mouthwatering cuisine, this city is a captivating blend of old and new. Begin your exploration by visiting the Colosseum, an architectural marvel that once hosted thrilling gladiatorial battles. Marvel at the impressive structure and imagine the grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire that once ruled the Eternal City. Adjacent to the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum, a sprawling archaeological site that was the political and social heart of ancient Rome. Take a stroll through history and admire the ruins of temples, basilicas, and monuments. While you’re in the area, continue exploring to the Vittoriano, also nicknamed the “Typewriter Building.”
No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Vatican City. On your second day, make your way to St. Peter’s Square, where you’ll find the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica. Step inside this awe-inspiring church, adorned with exquisite artwork and architectural wonders. You can also climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of the city. Next, head to the Vatican Museums, home to one of the world’s most extensive art collections. The highlight here is undoubtedly the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes, including the famous “Creation of Adam,” adorn the ceiling.
The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.
Michelangelo
One of the best things Patrick and I did was splurge on tickets for a guided tour at the Vatican called “Extra Time – Sistine Chapel.” In this tour, we received a 2 hour guided tour through the museum right before closing time and then had private access to the Sistine Chapel after closing, followed by a complimentary happy hour in the garden all for $78/per person. Wow, this was such a special experience. Patrick and I were the first people in our group to enter the Sistine Chapel and that moment will stick with us forever. Having visited before, Patrick says hands down being able to experience the Sistine Chapel in such a private experience was worth the price compared to being packed with countless tourists in a normal tour. The delicious food and drinks were also a cherry on top to the end of the tour. We highly recommend spending the money for this experience!
On day three, wander through the enchanting streets of Rome and make your way to the Trevi Fountain. Take part in the tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, ensuring your return to this magical city. From there, visit the Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman engineering. Step inside and marvel at the breathtaking dome and the oculus, a circular opening that allows sunlight to filter into the space. Explore the surrounding Piazza della Rotonda, lined with charming cafes and gelaterias, where you can indulge in a scoop of authentic Italian gelato.
If you’re looking for an night out in Rome, hop over to Mate Bar, which is in a bustling district of bars and restaurants full of locals and tourists that will surely offer a good array of options for whatever you may be looking for! And for your stay, check out BoRooms. This no frills, affordable hotel felt like we went back in time in this historic building, just outside of the Vatican City. Fun fact, if you didn’t know, the Vatican City is actually its own country, surrounded by Rome and is home to less than 1,000 residents!
Lastly, for all places in Rome, be prepared to stand in lines, walk a lot, and book your tickets ahead of time!
Florence, Italy: A Renaissance Splendor
Next, we venture to Florence, a city synonymous with Renaissance art and culture. Florence will transport you back in time with its historic streets, elegant palaces, and world-renowned museums. Start your exploration at the Uffizi Gallery, home to a remarkable collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Admire Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and da Vinci’s “Annunciation” as you delve into the world of art and beauty. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
If the Medici are to shape history we must live beyond our lifetimes.
Cosimo de’ Medici
In the heart of Florence lies the iconic Duomo, a symbol of the city’s architectural prowess. Climb to the top of the Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views of the cityscape, and you can marvel at the intricate details of the frescoes inside the cathedral. Next, take a leisurely stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops. Stop by the Vasari Corridor, a hidden gem connecting the Uffizi Gallery to the Pitti Palace, and enjoy the stunning views of the Arno River.
On day five, venture to the peaceful Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace. These enchanting gardens are a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Meander through the meticulously manicured pathways, lined with statues, fountains, and hidden gardens. Find a serene spot to sit and soak in the tranquil ambiance. End your day by savoring the flavors of Tuscany at a local trattoria. Here you can indulge in classics like Florentine steak, ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), and pappa al pomodoro (a delicious tomato and bread soup).
Cinque Terre, Italy: Five Charming Towns
Ah, the wonderful Cinque Terre. Prepare to be enchanted by the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I wrote in depth blog about Cinque Terre, if you want to learn more about these charming towns. Changing it up from the fast-paced cities, escape to the beautiful Italian Riviera. This rugged coastline boasts colorful houses perched on cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and delectable seafood. Start your journey in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages. Spend your day relaxing on the sandy beaches or exploring the charming streets lined with artisan shops and seafood restaurants. Wander through the small town and find some refreshing lemon gelato, a local specialty.
On day seven, embark on the renowned Sentiero Azzurro, a coastal trail that connects all five villages. Begin your hike in Monterosso and make your way to Vernazza, a village known for its vibrant colors and quaint harbor. In this part of the trail, you can capture breathtaking photos of the colorful buildings clinging to the cliffs. From Vernazza, continue hiking to Manarola, often considered the most picturesque of the Cinque Terre villages. Wander through the narrow streets and enjoy panoramic views from the scenic viewpoints. For more details on the Sentiero Azzurro, check out this article where I discuss it in depth!
Day eight is the perfect opportunity to explore Riomaggiore and Corniglia, the remaining two villages. Riomaggiore offers stunning views from its rocky coastline and a charming marina dotted with fishing boats. Take some time to soak up the sun and go for a swim. To reach Corniglia, you can either hike along the scenic trails or take a short train ride. Corniglia is perched on a cliff, and its unique position provides breathtaking views of the coastline. Explore the peaceful streets and taste local delicacies, such as anchovies and Sciacchetrà wine.
Milan, Italy: Indulge in Fashion and Architecture
Our final stop is Milan, the fashion capital of Italy. This vibrant city boasts a perfect blend of contemporary architecture, rich history, and unparalleled shopping. Start your Milan adventure by visiting the magnificent Duomo di Milano, a symbol of the city’s grandeur. Take an elevator or climb the stairs to the rooftop terraces for a close-up view of the intricate spires and panoramic vistas of Milan’s skyline.
Next, head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade. The intricate mosaics and glass domes will mesmerize you as you explore luxury boutiques and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many elegant cafes. Next you can wander through the artistic district of Brera, known for its charming streets and art galleries. Here you can visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, home to masterpieces by renowned Italian artists. Take a leisurely walk through the district, stopping at local cafes to savor Italian espresso and traditional pastries.
Before bidding Italy farewell, indulge in the gastronomic delights of Milan. Taste the city’s famous dish, risotto alla Milanese, made with saffron and creamy Arborio rice. Pair it with a glass of local Lombardy wine for the perfect culinary experience. Spend your last evening exploring the vibrant Navigli district, known for its canals, trendy bars, and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a delightful aperitivo, a Milanese tradition of pre-dinner drinks accompanied by a selection of delicious snacks.
I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection.
Leonardo da Vinci
Exploring Italy with the Eurail Pass
To make your journey through Italy even more seamless, we highly recommend considering the convenience of the Eurail Pass. The Eurail Pass provides unlimited train travel across multiple countries, including Italy, offering you the flexibility to book train tickets on the go and explore the country at your own pace. There’s nothing better than getting to see a whole country by train and the Eurail pass makes it so easy! With just a single pass in hand, you can embark on scenic train rides, effortlessly connecting Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Milan.
By opting for the Eurail Pass, you can save time and avoid the hassle of booking individual train tickets for each leg of your journey. Simply hop on and off trains, enjoying the comfort and convenience of rail travel. The extensive rail network in Italy allows you to reach both popular tourist destinations and off-the-beaten-path gems with ease. Whether you’re admiring the ancient ruins of Rome, savoring the beauty of Florence, hiking the picturesque trails of Cinque Terre, or immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Milan, the Eurail Pass simplifies your travel logistics, making it the ideal choice for your 10-day Italy itinerary.
I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection.
Travelling in Italy Tips
Traveling in Italy is an absolute delight, and to ensure a smooth and memorable experience, it’s helpful to keep a few essential tips in mind. First and foremost, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette. Italians appreciate politeness and respect, so you can greet people with a friendly “buongiorno” (good day) and “grazie” (thank you) when interacting with locals. Additionally, it’s worth noting that Italians often take their time to savor meals and enjoy leisurely conversations. Embrace the relaxed pace of life and indulge in the country’s renowned cuisine by dining at local trattorias and trying regional specialties.
Another valuable tip is to prioritize comfort and practicality when it comes to attire and footwear. Italy is known for its cobblestone streets and historic sites, so opt for comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking. As you explore the charming cities, keep in mind that modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites such as churches and cathedrals. Additionally, be mindful of your belongings and practice caution in crowded areas to protect against pickpocketing. With these tips in mind, you can navigate Italy with ease, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and create cherished memories of your Italian adventure.
Conclusion
From the eternal city of Rome to the artistic treasures of Florence, the coastal allure of Cinque Terre, and the cosmopolitan charm of Milan, you’ve now experienced the best that Italy has to offer. Remember, this itinerary is just a starting point, and there’s always more to explore. So, pack your bags, embrace the Italian spirit, and get ready for a journey filled with unforgettable moments, delicious food, and lifelong memories.