Italy is a beautiful country located in Southern Europe, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultural heritage. The country is dotted with picturesque towns and cities, such as Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, and Lake Como.
There’s a lot to see and do in this beautiful country with a rich history, culture, and cuisine. Below is the day-by-day itinerary you can follow for your visit to Italy.
Day 1: Rome Historic Center
Start your day at the iconic Colosseum, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Take in the grandeur of this ancient amphitheater and learn about its fascinating history as you walk around it.
Click here to see how to visit Colosseum and Roman Forum in a day.
Next, head to the Roman Forum, located just beside the Colosseum. This was the heart of ancient Rome, where political, religious, and social activities took place. Explore the ruins and imagine what life was like during the Roman Empire.
Continue your tour to Capitoline Hill, one of the oldest and most important hills in Rome. Visit the Capitoline Museums, which house a superb collection of ancient Roman art and artifacts.
Walk to the Pantheon, a well-preserved ancient Roman temple dedicated to all the gods. Admire its remarkable dome and the oculus, an opening in the roof.
Make your way to the stunning Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome, as the legend goes.
Continue to the Spanish Steps, a famous stairway leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church. The Spanish Steps area is a popular spot for shopping and people-watching.
Day 2: Vatican City
Start your day at St. Peter’s Square, the grand piazza in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. Marvel at the stunning architecture and the iconic obelisk in the center of the square.
Enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest and most important churches in Christendom. Admire the breathtaking art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s “Pieta” and the majestic dome designed by Michelangelo.
Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome.
Head to the Vatican Museums, which house an extraordinary collection of art and artifacts collected by the popes over centuries. Don’t miss the famous Sistine Chapel, with its ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress located near St. Peter’s Square. Explore its fascinating history and enjoy the views.
Cross the beautiful Ponte Sant’Angelo (Bridge of Angels) and take a moment to admire the angel sculptures adorning the bridge.
Experience the Vatican at sunset. The illuminated buildings and peaceful atmosphere offer a unique perspective of this historic site.
Click here to see our complete guide on how to visit Vatican City in a day.
Day 3: Pompeii
Start your day early by taking a high-speed train from Rome to Naples. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Upon arrival in Naples, head to the Circumvesuviana train station at Naples Garibaldi (Napoli Centrale) to catch a train to Pompeii. The journey from Naples to Pompeii takes about 30 minutes.
Once in Pompeii, explore the ancient city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Visit the archaeological site and see well-preserved ruins, including houses, streets, and public buildings.
After your visit to Pompeii, return to Naples. If time permits and you’re interested in a further adventure, consider taking a walking tour of Naples.
Explore Castel Nuovo, a medieval castle located near the seafront.
Admire the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Naples.
In the evening catch a high-speed train back to Rome.
Click here to read our guide on how to visit Pompeii and Naples from Rome.
Day 4: Florence
Take a high-speed train to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Start your day at Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Florence. Admire the stunning Florence Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistery, and Giotto’s Campanile (bell tower).
Consider visiting the Accademia Gallery to admire Michelangelo’s original “David” sculpture.
Walk to Piazza della Signoria, the city’s main square. Marvel at the Palazzo Vecchio, a historic palace that has served as Florence’s town hall for centuries.
Don’t miss the replica of Michelangelo’s “David” and the numerous statues displayed in the square.
Continue to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world.
Cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops and offering beautiful views of the Arno River.
As you continue along the river, start heading uphill toward Piazzale Michelangelo. The ascent may be steep, but the effort is worth it for the breathtaking views that await you.
Click here to see our article on the top things to do in Florence.
Day 5: Day trip to Pisa
Start your day by taking a train from Florence to Pisa. The train journey takes around 1 hour. The tower is part of a beautiful complex that includes the Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistry, and the Camposanto Monumentale.
To climb the Leaning Tower, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, as access is limited and popular time slots may sell out quickly.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through Pisa’s charming old town. Visit the Piazza dei Cavalieri, which used to be the political center of the city, and admire the Palazzo della Carovana.
Head back to Pisa Centrale station and catch your return train to Florence.
Click here to see a complete guide on how to visit Pisa from Florence.
Once you return to Florence, you can visit the Mercato Centrale, a bustling indoor food market in the evening. Grab a delicious meal or snack from the various food vendors, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Day 6: Venice
Take the train to Venice, where you can wander through the winding canals and enjoy the unique architecture of this beautiful city.
Start your day at St. Mark’s Square, the main square of Venice. Marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, with its intricate architecture and stunning mosaics.
Click here to see our article on the complete guide to visiting St Mark Basilica.
Once inside, take your time to explore the interior of the basilica. Admire the beautiful mosaics, marble columns, and ornate decorations that make this basilica a masterpiece of art and architecture.
Don’t miss the Pala d’Oro, a stunning golden altarpiece adorned with precious gems and enamel. It’s a true treasure of religious art.
If you’re interested in learning more about the basilica’s history and art, visit the St. Mark’s Museum (Museo Marciano), located on the upper level.
Visit the Doge’s Palace, located next to St. Mark’s Basilica. Explore the opulent halls, historic chambers, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.
Take an elevator ride up the Campanile (bell tower) of St. Mark’s Basilica for spectacular views of Venice from above.
Walk towards the Rialto Bridge, the oldest and most famous bridge in Venice. Admire the views of the Grand Canal and the bustling Rialto Market.
Get lost in the narrow streets of Venice and discover hidden squares and charming bridges.
Click here to see our article on top things to do in Venice.
Day 7: Murano, Burano & Torcello
Start your day by taking a water taxi or Vaporetto (public water bus) from Venice to Murano. Upon arrival in Murano, explore the island known for its exquisite glass craftsmanship. Visit glass factories and watch skilled artisans create beautiful glassware.
Take some time to stroll along the picturesque canals and bridges of Murano. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and admire the colorful houses that line the waterfront.
Take a Vaporetto from Murano to the island of Burano. The Vaporetto line 12 connects the two islands and offers a scenic ride across the Venetian lagoon.
Explore Burano, famous for its vibrant and colorful houses. Wander through the charming streets and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this fishing village.
Take a short Vaporetto ride from Burano to Torcello. The Vaporetto service between the two islands is frequent, and the journey typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes.
Upon arrival, you’ll step into a serene and less touristy atmosphere compared to Venice.
Explore the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, one of the oldest churches in the Venetian lagoon.
Head back to Venice by Vaporetto in the late afternoon. This will give you enough time to enjoy the island and return to Venice before evening.
Click here for our complete guide on how to visit Murano, Burano, and Torcello in a day.
If you have time in the evening, stroll through Venice’s streets, enjoy a relaxing gondola ride, or savor a delicious dinner at one of the city’s many charming restaurants.
Day 8: Milan
Take the train to Milan, once you get there start your day at the magnificent Milan Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in the world.
Admire its stunning Gothic architecture and take some time to explore the interior and rooftop for panoramic views of the city.
Walk to the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant shopping arcade with a beautiful glass roof.
Continue to Teatro Alla Scala, one of the world’s most famous opera houses.
Walk to Castello Sforzesco, a historic fortress and former residence of the ruling Sforza family. Explore the castle’s courtyards, museums, and beautiful gardens.
After visiting the castle, take a stroll through Parco Sempione, the city’s central park. Enjoy the greenery, sculptures, and peaceful atmosphere.
Head towards the Arch of Peace, a neoclassical triumphal arch located at the end of Parco Sempione. Admire its grandeur and significance as a symbol of peace.
If you have pre-booked tickets, consider adding a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Last Supper fresco, located near Parco Sempione.
Click here to see our article on How to spend a day in Milan.
Day 9: Lake Como
Start your day early by taking a train from Milano Centrale station to Varenna-Esino, the closest train station to Varenna. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
Upon arrival in Varenna, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss a visit to Villa Monastero, an elegant villa with beautiful botanical gardens overlooking the lake.
Take a short ferry ride from Varenna to Bellagio, often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” The ferry ride itself offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Arrive in Bellagio and enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the town’s restaurants. Many eateries offer picturesque views of the lake.
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets and shops of Bellagio.
Take a leisurely walk to the nearby Villa Melzi Gardens. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with sculptures, flowers, and impressive lake views.
Take a scenic ferry ride across Lake Como to get to Como. The ferry service connects various towns around the lake, and the views from the water are simply stunning.
Take a leisurely walk along the lakefront promenade, and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
In the evening catch a train from Como San Giovanni station, the main train station in Como back to Milan.
Click here to see our article on How to take a day trip to Lake Como from Milan.
Day 10: Fly Home
On your last day, depart from Milan’s international airport to return home or continue your travels. The Malpensa Express is a direct train service that connects Malpensa Airport to Milan Central Station and the journey takes around one hour.
How to get around Italy
Italy has an extensive and efficient railway system operated by Trenitalia, the national railway company. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Frecciargento connect major cities, making travel between destinations quick and comfortable. Regional trains are also available, connecting smaller towns and cities. You can purchase train tickets online or at train stations.
All cities like Rome, Naples, and Milan have efficient metro systems and comprehensive public transportation networks. Using the metro and buses within cities is often the most convenient way to move around.
For this itinerary, you have the option to fly into Rome and fly out of Milan, or you can also do it in reverse order by flying into Milan and flying out of Rome. Both options offer a fantastic way to explore the beauty and diversity of Italy from south to north or vice versa.
Let us know in the comment section below if you have any questions or suggestions.