Want to strategize an unforgettable journey to Italy? We’ve got you covered! This thorough 10 day Italy itinerary will help you devise an incredible trip, with possibilities for extending your trip to 14 days, or condensing it into 7.
The itinerary encompasses three famed cities – Rome, Florence, and Venice – with intermittent stops planned to introduce lesser visited yet still charming locales we became quite fond of during our prior five week road trip immersing ourselves in Italy`s culture. That excursion only deepened our affection for everything the country has to offer.
Italy is, undoubtedly, one of our favorite countries globally. It possesses everything we enjoy about touring – remarkable cuisine (and wine), warm and welcoming people, and beautiful scenery within its cities and rural countryside.
We spent over five weeks broadly touring the countryside during our latest trip to Italy, and despite having what seemed a sizable length of time, there were still many, many locations that got added to our “next time” list.
Something that constantly amazes us about Italy is the diversity that exists between regions in terms of history, scenery, and culture. Even cities that are 30 minutes apart from each other have distinct cultures and personalities that originated from centuries as independent city states before the unification of Italy (which happened very recently – in the 19th Century – which came as a surprise to us).
As the land renowned for ‘la dolce vita’ (the sweet life), a trip to Italy should not be full of organizational stress.
It should provide an enjoyable and relaxing experience. We’ve utilized our past travels around Italy to compile this detailed guide to 10 days in Italy aimed at reducing some of the stress of the planning aspects of your trip.
We love Italy, and think you will too.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Table of Contents
How Many Days Do You Need in Italy?
While 10 days offers a respectable introduction to Italy for first-time visitors, one cannot hope to experience everything within this timeframe.
Every instinct will tell you to fit more places into your trip, and we want to be the first to caution you against taking that approach.
Italy is a sizable and diverse country with so many amazing places to visit, yes. Even after spending over a month in Italy we have a list of “I guess we’ll have to do that next time” places that is longer than when we got to Italy!
However, Italy is also a country that needs to be savored gradually rather than rushed. It may be tempting to include as numerous destinations as possible, relocating to a fresh base daily, but this isn`t the best way to experience Italy.
Italy is a place that necessitates taking time. Leisurely outdoor lunches with some glasses of wine. Slow ambles through beautiful historic streets. Hours spent perusing world-renowned art exhibitions.
To fully immerse yourself in the enjoyment of everyday life that Italy is so renowned for, you`ll need a minimum of 10 days.
The most effective way to spend 10 days in Italy is to select three or four primary destinations to use as bases (e.g. Rome, Florence, Venice) and divide time between them, adding in a day trip or two from those cities. This is what you’ll find in this itinerary (though we made an exception for our favorite city in Italy, Verona).
With 14 days in Italy, you could opt to select an additional city as a base location and add in a couple more day excursions. Below the main itinerary, we’ve included some 14 day plans for you to utilize if you have extra time available.
The Route For 10 Days in Italy
We want to be extremely clear here – there are an endless number of amazing places in Italy, and you can’t possibly experience them all in a 10 day trip. In fact, even after our latest visit to Italy that lasted five weeks, there are still so many places that we want to explore despite having what feels like significant time!
So, we can infer from the details provided that the proposed itinerary focuses on visiting the three prominent urban centers of Rome, Florence, and Venice during the trip to Italy.
However, that definitely does not signify those should be the sole points of interest you visit. We consider Florence specifically creates an excellent home base for exploring both Tuscany as well as some of the surrounding regions, so we’ve allocated two days to utilize for day trips from Florence.
Fear not – we`ve got an outlook on what choices are available, how to get to each of the places you`re visiting, and what to do in each location.
After being charmed by it, we’ve also added a stop in Verona to the itinerary. Because we think it merits it, and it’s along the route between Florence and Venice anyhow (the high speed train runs straight through Verona on its way to Venice).
With that out of the way, here’s the itinerary that you’ll find below:
- Day 1: Arrive and Rome
- Day 2: Rome (Colosseum Tour)
- Day 3: Rome (Vatican)
- Day 4: Florence
- Day 5: Florence Day Trip 1
- Day 6: Florence
- Day 7: Florence Day Trip 2
- Day 8: Verona
- Day 9: Venice
- Day 10: Venice and Fly Home
Within each of the cities, a highly prescriptive approach is undesirable – clearly, a day trip could be done on the third day in Florence instead of the second. For each city, favorite things to do in each city have been included (rather than an hour-by-hour daily schedule) to help in piecing together one`s itinerary.
Where Should You Start and End Your 10 Days in Italy?
As one of the most visited countries globally, there are international airports in nearly every sizable city in Italy, making it extremely easy to access. Some of the country’s largest airports can be found in Rome, Milan, Venice and Bologna.
For this specific Italian itinerary, flying into Rome`s Fiumicino International Airport (Leonardo da Vinci) is advised to commence the trip in Rome.
At the conclusion of the itinerary, you can fly out of the Venice Airport (Marco Polo Airport), which is located on the mainland just a few kilometers north of Venice.
If you decide to swap things around and finish your trip in Florence instead, there are two possibilities for flying back out; the Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola) or the Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport). Pisa is the larger of the two airports and provides service to more international airlines. You can take either a bus or train from Florence to Pisa airport in just an hour and a half.
Getting Around Italy
For this particular schedule, we’d strongly advise using Italy’s extensive train network to travel between locations. It’s efficient, affordable, and significantly more convenient than flying. Driving is another option, but if visiting the main cities in Italy – Rome, Florence, and Venice – then you truly don’t need (or want) a vehicle.
Flying within Italy
One avenue for traveling around Italy is by using internal flights. There is an impressive 77 domestic and regional airports connecting the different urban centers and regions of Italy.
However, internal flights are only really necessary if you’re traveling a long distance from north to south, or over to one of the islands.
Indeed, Alitalia, Italy’s primary domestic airline, was in the process of transferring to new ownership and ended up canceling hundreds of flights while we were in Italy for over a month.
Thankfully, we had anticipated the issues, so we had avoided flying Alitalia. They have since been replaced by ITA.
The point remains, we would strongly recommend utilizing Italy’s extensive rail network rather than flying internally within Italy. For this itinerary it will be much simpler to travel by train or automobile.
Trains in Italy
Traveling around Italy by train is straightforward, convenient and reasonably priced, and the method of transportation that I would recommend for this itinerary.
While the rail network in the southern part of the country is somewhat more restricted, central and northern Italy are extremely well connected by train. There are also numerous high-speed trains that transport travelers between the major cities very quickly. All of the destinations outlined on this itinerary are served by the rail network.
Train tickets can be purchased either at stations or online.
For getting between the large cities, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to save money and guarantee you get the date and time you want.
Rail tickets in Italy can be arranged through the formal Italian rail website TrenItalia. I also frequently book train tickets in Italy using ItaliaRail, which is marginally less perplexing than the TrenItalia website if one does not converse in Italian (on TrenItalia you must utilize the Italian destination names).
A few tips when traveling in Italy by train:
- CONFIRM YOUR TICKET IS VALID! If you obtain your ticket at the station using physical media, you must authenticate it using the machines situated either within the station or on the platforms. Maintain the ticket in the device until a flash of light and tone indicates validation. If validation is not performed, large penalties may result. Tickets on mobile phones for online purchases do not necessitate validation.
- Don’t rely solely on Google Maps for schedules. I`ve made this error more than once – Google Maps doesn`t always have Italy`s up-to-date train timetables like other nations. Download the Trenitalia app instead to check for correct train times.
- Large cities have multiple transportation hubs. Places like Rome have several major stations. Be certain to confirm you’re headed to the appropriate station and avoid missing a train due to a last minute dash across the city.
Tips for Driving in Italy
Another option is to rent a vehicle for the entire 10 day trip to Italy.
For this itinerary, Rome, Florence and Venice themselves are not the most car-friendly cities. However, a vehicle will prove useful for getting between the cities and particularly for the day trips around Florence and the Chianti region.
Leasing an automobile allows for more flexibility regarding scheduling and making any extra stops. You’ll also be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery along Italy’s roadways along the journey! Whether this outweighs the convenience of hopping on trains is for you to decide.
Booking a vehicle from the airport or upon arrival in any of the Italian cities is possible. AutoEurope is the company I typically use for pre-reserving car rentals within Italy.
A few tips for driving in Italy:
- You may require an International Driver’s License.Italy used to be more relaxed about licenses, however, nowadays you`ll need to show you have an international driver`s permit if you’re from a non-EU country.
- Note restricted traffic zones. Known as Zona Traffico Limitato (limited traffic areas) within the historic centers of most Italian locales, entry without permit results in hefty penalties. Similarly, keep an eye out for Area Pedonale (pedestrian regions), easily distinguishable.
- Finding a place to park your vehicle can be challenging. Even outside the restricted traffic zones (ZTL’s), parking one`s automobile in Italian cities tends to be quite difficult and costly. Look for hotels that have their own parking lots or those on the outskirts of towns where parking on the street will be easier and less expensive. You can then leave your car at the hotel and travel into the city center using public transportation.
- Watch out for Italian drivers.Excuse the generalization, but based on my experience, Italian motorists do tend to drive somewhat erratically. Be cautious of fast vehicles overtaking you or automobiles changing lanes without warning.
Helpful Travel Tips for Visiting Italy
A few more significant elements you should be aware of before visiting Italy:
- There are conventions surrounding Italian coffee culture. You may already be aware that Italians are devoted to their coffee. However, did you realize there are guidelines tied to the Italian coffee tradition? One of the most important being that Italians consume milky varieties like cappuccinos and lattes in the morning hours, but after lunch it`s strictly espressos alone. Ordering a coffee with milk post-meal or in the mid-afternoon is the surest way to confuse a barista and expose yourself as a visitor.
- Dinner is generally late. As in many European countries, Italians tend to dine much later in the evening. One shouldn`t expect locals to head out for a meal until at least 8:00 pm. Larger cities will have some eateries open earlier catering to tourists, but these exceptions stand out.
- Try to learn at minimum a bit of Italian. In central and northern Italy, particularly in the major cities, most people speak some English. However, it’s always good to learn a little Italian to help you get by and to be polite.
- Real Italian cuisine differs from Italian food in America. This recommendation specifically relates to Americans visiting Italy. In the US, Italian meals typically mean spaghetti and meatballs and garlic bread. However, that does not represent authentic Italian dining. Genuine Italian cuisine is even more delightful! Italian food varies substantially between regions, from cacio e pepe and carbonara in Rome to cicchetti in Venice and much more. Conduct research in advance and sample as many traditional local dishes as feasible in every region.
10 Days in Italy: A Classic 10 Day Italian Itinerary for First Time Visitors
For this ultimate first-timer`s 10 day Italy itinerary, you`ll get to explore three of Italy`s most famous cities – Rome, Florence, and Venice – with other exciting stops included along the route.
To help you optimize your time, we’ve also included the best methods for traveling between each destination, recommended accommodations in each city, any tours or tickets that should be reserved in advance, and a detailed rundown of what to do in each location.
We believe that all the necessary information to plan an amazing trip to Italy is included here, and we hope you find it helpful.
Days 1-3: Exploring the Ancient City of Rome
Rome is regarded as one of our favorite cities worldwide, and some of its charm comes from the reality that anywhere you roam in the city, you’re likely to be passing by a structure – or the remnants of one – that is actually thousands of years old. Or, in the city’s case, they try to build a metro line and have to halt every few months as they encounter a new set of ruins, which explains why Rome’s third subway line STILL hasn’t been constructed (it was under development when Alysha resided there ten years ago!).
An Italian person we met in Barcelona jested that signs indicating “metro line under construction” in Rome have become rather popular with visitors given how lengthy their presence has been.
Rome is a great initiation to Italy, but as you’ll learn throughout the course of your journey, it’s definitely not the sole defining aspect of Italy. Each region has a highly distinctive character, which we found to be one of the most fascinating parts of exploring Italy.
However, Rome is where it initially began (somewhat of a generalization), meaning it serves as a good starting point for your trip to Italy. Additionally, it`s the simplest place to fly into, with the most international flight routes.
Things to Do in Rome
There is an almost endless list of activities in Rome, but we have selected the ones we feel you should focus on with just a few days, and you can save the remainder for a return trip in the future.
We have an entire guide focused on planning the perfect holiday to Rome – refer to that for more details on organizing your time!
The Colosseum and Roman Forum
During your time in Rome, you`ll undoubtedly want to visit one of the city`s most recognizable and visited attractions, the Colosseum.
Dating back to 70 AD, the Colosseum was the largest amphitheater constructed during the Roman Empire. In antiquity, the almighty structure seated over 50,000 people who came to watch gladiator battles, exotic animal displays, and even live prisoner executions.
The Roman Forum could be found near the Colosseum and was once the main downtown region of ancient Rome. The Forum served as the hub of political and social activity in ancient Rome and housed open air markets, public meetings, religious ceremonies, and more.
The region is now generally ruins, but there are still numerous fascinating things to see, such as the primary street, Via Sacra, and the excavated remnants of grand temples and political buildings.
While the ruins of the Roman Forum can be independently explored, interpreting the archaeological remains can prove difficult without a guide. For this reason, booking a combined tour led by a knowledgeable escort is advised. You’ll also gain insights into the history and peoples comprising one of humanity’s greatest early civilizations.
There’s no uncertainty in our minds that experiencing the Colosseum and Roman Forum accompanied by a guide is the finest approach. Not only will an excursion get you skip-the-line access to both locales, but you’ll also have the ability to learn about the huge structure and its long and fascinating history.
The tour will add significantly to the experience through imparting context and depth of understanding. Many tours also include the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where we think obtaining guidance is even more important because without context, you’re largely just observing an assortment of ruined structures.
- On the higher priced side, there’s the Basecamp Baker Creek, which is a rustic small resort along the Bow Valley Highway, approximately 15 minutes from Lake Louise. They have rooms with and without kitchens, and feature a comparable collection of rooms to Paradise Lodge and Bungalows.
It is a great tour option that includes all three attractions as well as exclusive VIP access to the underground tunnels inside of the Colosseum. The tour begins at 10:15 am and lasts for 3.5 hours.
If you want to visit the Colosseum on your own, it’s best to arrive early before it opens at 8:30 am to avoid the huge lines to get inside. I’d highly recommend booking tickets in advance, especially during peak periods when you might otherwise end up standing in line for two to three hours. Get them on the official website here.
The Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica
The Vatican is the smallest autonomous territory in the world, located within Rome, and home to the spiritual leaders of the Roman Catholic Church. It’s a must-see on any trip to Rome.
Visiting the Vatican can be a little overwhelming, with so much to see including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the world-class Vatican Museums (with over 20,000 pieces on display). The lines to get inside can also be up to two or three hours long during peak periods.
Therefore, taking a guided tour is the best way to visit the Vatican, which is how I (Matt) have toured it twice before.
Two excellent choices for exploring the Vatican include joining a guided afternoon tour similar to this one, or spending the remainder of your day at a more relaxed pace before booking an exclusive evening tour after hours. An evening tour allows you to explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel when crowds have diminished.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that the Vatican is a sacred place and visitors need to dress respectfully. Neither bare knees nor shoulders are permitted, so plan to dress appropriately all day or carry extra layers to cover up once you arrive.
Other Things to Do in Rome
Here are some of our other favorite activities to partake in within the Eternal City once you’ve experienced the Colosseum and Vatican.
An Evening in Trastevere. This popular area of Rome comes to life at nightfall, when patrons spill out from the many bars and eateries onto the streets, enjoying the ambiance. Consider finding an outdoor spot to relax with a spritz or two and take in the people watching – we recommend Freni e Frizioni, a place we enjoyed and was suggested by our hotel staff in Trastevere. For dining, we like Mama Eat (among our top choices for gluten free meals in Rome) and Fatamorgana Gelato. Also take a stroll up behind the bohemian neighborhood to the Belvedere del Gianicolo for spectacular city views and historical significance regarding the unification of Italy.
In this part of the suggested itinerary, you are advised to explore some of the most significant sites in the historic centre of Rome known as Centro Storico by wandering from Campo de’ Fiori to the Spanish Steps early in the morning. This scenic walk is best done before 9:00 am when the streets are relatively quiet, allowing for a more calm experience. You would start at Campo de’ Fiori where vendors are beginning their day at the marketplace. From there, admire landmarks like Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and arrive at the Spanish Steps while taking in highlights of Centro Storico, considered the most romantic area of Rome. Here is a map outlining that route.
Castel Sant’Angelo.I had never actually entered Castel Sant’Angelo until our most recent trip despite walking past it many times. The building was constructed as a burial place for Emperor Hadrian, and has since been appropriated by various factions in Rome like the Catholic Church (it still contains Hadrian`s tomb though). It is really worth the time and money spent. Possibly even worthwhile just for the perspective of the Vatican alone from different points on the self-guided tour they have established. Book tickets in advance here, and try to go either very early in the morning (when daylight on the Vatican is best) or later in the afternoon (when daylight on the historic center is best).
The Borghese Gardens (and Gallery).The Borghese gardens are definitely worth visiting as part of exploring the Centro Storico area. Continue walking from the Spanish Steps up to Piazza del Popolo, then climb the hill to Terrazza del Pincio and wander through the beautiful gardens to the art gallery. If wanting to go inside the Borghese Gallery, be sure to book tickets in advance as entry is limited each hour. If tickets are unavailable, consider a guided tour like this one including both the gardens and gallery.
Experience Local Cuisine Through a Guided Food Tour. Rome offers excellent culinary options, though mediocre fare, especially in Centro Storico, exists too. Join a guided street food walk to sample top selections with an insider, our usual preferred method to explore a city. This tour led by a local receives rave reviews, and this guided trek centers on Trastevere and the Jewish Quarter, two top culinary hotspots in town.
Where to Stay in Rome
In our perspective, there are really only three acceptable answers to the question “where should you stay in Rome?” They are Trastevere – our favorite area in Rome – Monti, and the Centro Storico.
We have an entire guide dedicated to finding the perfect lodging in Rome, which you should read for more detail around why we recommend it.
Where We’ve Stayed
We invested ten days exploring Rome as a portion of that latest Italy experience, and ended up staying in both Trastevere and the Centro Storico over that timeframe.
In Trastevere, we splurged on the wonderful Horti 14 Borgo, a lovely small hotel located just outside of the busy area of the neighborhood, tucked away on a very quiet street. The beds are cozy, the place is great, and there’s a fabulous included breakfast.
In the Centro Storico – Rome’s Historic Core – we opted for an apartment with a kitchen and ended up at Grotta Pinta Apartments, which is three minutes away from both Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori. We were pleasantly amazed by how roomy it was, and it served as a great home base for our first stint in Rome before heading to Sicily.
We also stayed at the RomeHello near Termini, which served as an excellent inexpensive option for our visit to Rome. The facilities provided very pleasant amenities, rooms at affordable rates, and a location that exceeded what we had expected.
Staying in Bohemian Trastevere
Trastevere is an intriguing neighborhood in Rome known for its colorful streets and busy squares filled with flowers and local restaurants. Located just west of the Tiber River, it`s definitely one of the best areas to base yourself in the city, popular among residents for its bohemian character.
Our top picks in Trastevere are:
- Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere ($$$).
- La Residenza Del Cedro ($$).
- Lodging Trastevere ($).
Staying in Hip Monti
Monti is a centrally located neighborhood conveniently situated between Rome’s main train station (Termini), the Centro Storico, and the Colosseum and Forum, making it an ideal spot for walking to many of the primary attractions included in this itinerary. The trendy area also has plenty of great restaurants and bars to make the most of.
The best places to stay in Monti are:
- The Fifteen Keys Hotel ($$).
- One housing option is the Comfortable Lodging With Space Near Colosseum (moderate cost).
Days 4-7: Discovering the Renaissance in Florence
Florence will be your second (temporary) dwelling in Italy, and as soon as you disembark the train you’ll start to perceive that Florence stands apart very, very distinctly from Rome. While Rome’s zenith was in the times of the Roman empire, Florence began to flourish following the downfall of the Roman empire, around the period of the Renaissance.
It has a fascinating – sometimes scandalous – history as one of the largest independent city-states in Italy in the 15th century, and it was the birthplace of Michelangelo, whose endlessly impressive statue of David still resides in Florence (though it has since been moved indoors from its original location on Piazza della Signoria).
Florence serves as both a great city in its own right, and also an excellent home base for exploring the surrounding regions – namely Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.
We’ve arranged this itinerary to minimize the amount of travel needed, opting for day trips from each place instead of spending one night in each location. We’ve set aside two days in Florence for day trips, which will take up most of the day and leave you with a few hours at the end to explore Florence.
Getting From Rome to Florence by Train
On the afternoon of the fourth day, it`s time to leave Rome and head to Florence.
There are over 50 train routes each day connecting Rome and Florence, providing flexible options for departure timing.
Travel between Rome and Florence via TrenItalia`s high-speed Le Frecce trains takes around an hour and a half. These trains depart from Rome Termini station and arrive at Florence Santa Maria Novella station, which is the primary train station in Florence. Tickets on the high-speed trains generally cost around €40, but booking further in advance allows finding fares as low as €20.
Alternatively, you can take the slower Regionale or Intercity trains which take between three to four hours and cost €20 no matter when you book.
Things to Do in Florence
Aside from Florence being an excellent home base for exploring neighboring regions, the city itself is fascinating and diverse.
Comparable to Rome, there are a few must-see activities to engage in in Florence, which we’re going to cover in detail with a dedicated section for each. Below that, you’ll find some alternate things to do if you’re not so into museum life, or you’ve already done them on a previous trip.
The Uffizi Gallery
During our most recent trip to Florence where we spent five days in the city, we chose to revisit the Uffizi Gallery even though we had both seen it before. On our prior excursions to one of the foremost art museums in the world, we toured independently. Which essentially means we walked around, looked at some beautiful paintings, and left with a limited comprehension of what we had seen.
What`s notable about the Uffizi Gallery is its size, making visiting every exhibit impossible in a single day though many attempt it, similar to Paris`s expansive Louvre.
Another thing to know regarding the Uffizi Gallery is that it’s largely organized chronologically, which will give you an engaging perspective on the evolution of Italian art through the years leading up to and during the Renaissance.
During our last trip, we opted to go on a led tour with an art historian and it entirely changed how we saw the Uffizi Gallery. The guided tour added so much value that I`m unsure I would ever tour a major art museum independently again without this type of tour. Similar to the led Colosseum tour we did, it contributed an element of depth and context (as well as focus, which is key here) that cannot be matched by any solo tour, even if you use the audio guide.”
If you’re going to do one guided tour in Florence, this is probably the one we’d choose.
If you wish to do it independently, thorough planning well ahead of time is necessary. Failing to pre-book your tickets will likely result in standing in two very long lines for hours during the busy summer months, when that period could instead be spent exploring Florence`s attractions. WE STRONGLY ADVISE BOOKING YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE.
Tickets sell out months ahead for the popular summer months. You can book tickets through the formal website here. For an easier experience (we faced issues with the system on the formal website), you can book the same skip-the-line-tickets on Get Your Guide.
If tickets are unavailable (or planning is last-minute), an escorted visit is the best choice. We embarked on such a tour and would highly recommend it.
The Statue of David & Galleria dell Accademia
The Statue of David is perhaps the solitary most compelling work of art that I’ve ever directly seen. I distinctly recollect the initial time I laid eyes on the gorgeous piece of marble housed in the Galleria dell Accademia. My first thought was “how big, it’s larger than I anticipated.”
For whatever reason, I expected the statue to be around life size, but in reality it’s 17 feet tall! Truly an impressive work of art.
If you wish to see David again, you’ll need advance planning (or pay extra for a guided tour). Similar to the Uffizi Gallery, reserving tickets beforehand allows bypassing the ticket line and heading straight to security, literally saving hours of waiting time.
Reserve your tickets here. If they’re unavailable, initially check here to see if inventory remains, then explore booking a guided excursion (such as this one).
Alternatively, one could book a wider Florence walking tour that comes with skip-the-line tickets to the Accademia Gallery. Tak e Walks, who is our preferred tour company in Italy (read about our amazing Colosseum Tour here), has one that you can reserve here.
Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome
Inquire to anyone about the first structure they think of relating to Florence, and I wager 9 out of 10 would say “the Duomo.” The imposing cathedral is the centerpiece of an exceedingly beautiful city.
You may be wondering why we`re focusing solely on the dome here, and there`s a relatively straightforward reason: it offers the best value regarding both your time and money, and it`s the one part of the Duomo complex we think is essential to experience during any Florence itinerary.
There are five areas you can visit at the Duomo, and all but the interior require payment and more importantly, time.
Entry to the interior of the Duomo is free, but lines take quite some time (often wrapping around the block), so the highlight of seeing inside is viewing the beautifully painted dome depicting heavenly and hellish scenes.
Guess what? You can get an up-close personal view of the interior of the dome on your dome climb! And once you’ve done that, we don’t believe you need to wait in line to go inside the church.
The panorama from the top is sublime, and you can walk completely around for a 360 degree view of Florence and the surrounding landscape. To arrive there, you will need to climb over 460 narrow, steep stairs – there is no elevator option. If you become claustrophobic or can’t handle that many stairs, you may have to skip it.
Reservations are necessary in advance if you wish to ascend the dome and explore its interior. For the best views, we suggest an early morning or late afternoon visit when the surrounding Tuscan countryside is illuminated in a soft golden glow. Tickets can be booked online via the official website, accessible here.
If tickets for your dates at the dome are no longer available, an alternative is signing up for a guided tour – these companies reserve blocks of entries, so spots should still be obtainable even for impromptu trips. Here is one tour that has high reviews.
Other Things to Do in Florence
Here are some other things we really enjoyed on our recent trip to Florence.
Discover Oltrarno. The other side of the Arno River holds some fantastically valuable treasures that are well worth devoting a couple hours of your time to exploring. Begin by walking across Ponte Vecchio, the lone bridge in Florence that endured World War 2, and head to Ditta Artiginale for some of the finest coffee in Florence. Travel to the Boboli Gardens (tickets here) for a stroll through some beautifully landscaped gardens (don’t miss the statue of Neptune and the tiny botanical garden). After the gardens, you’ve earned a treat, so grab allegedly the best gelato in Florence at Gelateria della Passera and take it for a stroll over to Piazza Santo Spirito. Lastly, head back toward the river and stop by Le Volpi e L’Uva for wine sourced from small producers in Italy (and France and Austria, occasionally).
Piazzale Michelangelo. Found on the opposing side of the river is this spectacular plaza, where there is a replica of David Michelangelo`s famous statue and one of the finest views in all of Florence. However, it becomes very crowded in the afternoon around sunset time. You could brave the large crowds and bring an alcoholic drink like beer or wine to take in the scenic sunset, or come early in the morning to have the place to yourself. There is also a lovely (and free) rose garden located just below the plaza that is worth exploring in the spring and early summer months as well. This is an easy sight to combine with the Oltrarno walk outlined above.
Florence’s Two Food Sales Locations. Florence features a pair of marketplace halls that provide somewhat distinct experiences. San Lorenzo Market (also called Mercato Centrale) has two floors – the lower dedicated to fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats, and the upper being a trendy food court with many different stalls and options. There is also an outdoor market full of leather goods, trinkets, and other articles. The other market – Sant’Ambrogio – sees locals undertaking their weekly shopping, particularly on Saturday. There is a smaller but more authentic selection of stands ranging from butchers and cheesemongers to ready-to-eat foods. Even better, take a guided food expedition including a visit to the markets and try some local delicacies with the help of a knowledgeable escort!
3 Great Day Trips from Florence
As noted above, we`ve allocated time for a couple day trips from Florence. Generally, we feel the “big three” of Florence (the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Accademia) can be experienced over two days, with extra time left to explore further.
We’ve allotted four days in Florence in this itinerary because we think it’s an incredible base for day trips to places like wine country (Chianti), Bologna, and Lucca, which – IMPORTANT DETAILS AHEAD – are the three day trip options we’ll cover here.
While you could visit each of those places by spending the night, constantly packing up and relocating every one or two days would be tiring (I say from personal experience). However, those locations are near enough to Florence to make worthwhile day trips.
We do not, however, believe Cinque Terre is a good day excursion here. It’s too far off. However, it is one of the initial places we’d add with more time (see how to do that in the 14 day version of the itinerary below).
Bologna
If you enjoy food, visit Bologna – widely considered one of the best food cities in Italy – and indulge yourself on prosciutto, parmesan, balsamic vinegar, tagliatelle alla Bolognese, and anything else you can get your hands on.
Getting There: It’s an easy 45 minute train ride via high-speed train from the main station in Florence.
Suggested Activities: Here are suggestions for dining options in Bologna, as well as guidance on things to do in Bologna.
Lucca
Lucca was our most favorite day trip destination we explored departing from Florence, and the primary attraction for us was the ability to stroll along the medieval walls encircling the entire city. One could comfortably spend a full day here, but you can see the highlights in half a day or less.
Getting There: Regrettably, it’s a 90 minute ride on a regional train to arrive here from Florence. It’s a scenic trip but slower trains, which is disappointing.
What to Do: Here’s a guide to taking a day trip from Florence to Lucca.
Chianti
If you’re into wine varieties, there’s no improved place to immerse deeply into wine than Tuscany. Specifically, Chianti, which is one of the most highly regarded wine growing areas in the world.
Getting There: If you’ve followed our previous suggestions, then you likely won’t have a car, which means the best approach to explore the wine country is by joining a guided tour that incorporates transportation from Florence. You could also do a tour involving traveling out to a specific winery, but it would take 60-90 minutes each way (we did the research for our own trip and decided a tour with transportation is the preferable choice).
Guided Tour Options: There are two tours we looked at and would recommend. They’re both through Airbnb Experiences, which is our favorite way to schedule tours when we’re traveling – we’ve done at least 10-12 different Airbnb Experiences, and always enjoy them. Select a tour that visits multiple vineyards and includes transportation (like this one or this one)
Where to Stay in Florence
There are two pleasant areas to use as a home base in Florence. We have an entire guide that delves deeply into how to choose a place to stay in Florence, which you should head over and read for more information.
The Centro Storico is the most centrally located area, but it is also the most costly and crowded (however, there is something quite special about staying in close proximity to the Duomo that makes for a very romantic atmosphere).
Santa Croce is our preferred neighborhood – and where we resided (at the lovely Pietrapiana Apartments) on our last trip to Florence.
Staying in the Historic City Center (Centro Storico)
Florence`s historic city centre occupies a reasonably compact area and hosts most major attractions and hotels. Staying as centrally located as feasible best allows making the most of your limited time exploring the city.
Our top picks in Florence’s historic center are:
- Palazzo Gamba Luxury Apartments ($$$).
- Arte’ Boutique Hotel ($$).
Staying in Santa Croce
Santa Croce is our personal choice because it’s removed from the crowded Centro Storico – the crowds are intense, particularly in the summer – but it’s just a 5-10 minute walk away, and is full of some of the best food, drinks, and coffee in Florence.
Stay at either Pietrapiana Boutique Apartments (our lodging) if seeking an apartment, or at La Maison Du Sage, with rooms overlooking the Basilica di Santa Croce.
Day 8: Verona (Our Favorite City in Italy)
As we worked on constructing this itinerary for Italy, we arrived at the concluding part of the editing process and decided that Verona deserved inclusion. It had, after all, been our favored city from our recent trips exploring northern Italy, since it holds what we love about Italian towns in that region – the river, charming stone streets, excellent cuisine – and far smaller crowds than other major cities in northern Italy. Therefore, at the very last instant before publication, we chose to wholly rework the entire itinerary to accommodate it.
That should convey all that is needed regarding our view of Verona.
It also occurs to be the ideal size to explore in a day, which is really all you’re going to have here. Though, akin to us, we bet you’ll be wishing you had more time, and planning your return trip as soon as your flight home touches ground.
Read More:Exactly How to Spend a Day in Verona, Italy
Getting from Florence to Verona by Train
We traveled from Verona to Florence in the opposite direction – from Florence to Verona – and it is a simple journey on the high-speed trains yet requires a transfer in Bologna. In total, it will be approximately an hour and a half spread over two train rides. Definitely reserve the high-speed train – the regional trains, while cheaper, can take more than twice the time.
It will cost roughly 35 Euros per individual, but it depends, again, on how far in advance you register.
What to Do in Verona in a Day
Just before Sicily, we were in Paris and I was joking with someone I met that, while there are plenty of eateries in Paris serving gluten free options, none of them actually offer classic French cuisine.
Here’s how we think you should spend your time in Verona, assuming you arrive in the afternoon, and leave the following day around noon to head to Venice.
The travel guides highly advocate for the Verona Card, which is a transportation pass providing entrance to various destinations that will be visited in Verona as well as free public transit (beneficial for arriving and departing from the train station – the bus terminal is directly outside the entrance of the train station). The 24-hour version will be perfectly suitable for the trip.
More details can be found in our guide to the best things to see in Verona, which has a segment on why we think it’s worth visiting.
On your first afternoon (after getting settled into your lodgings):
Commence with the Roman Theater & Museum. This place was an unexpected surprise for us that we never would have discovered if we didn’t have the Verona Card and state “well, it’s free, right?” Not only is there an impressive theater – the semicircular kind bringing to mind Greek Theaters, versus the Roman-style Amphitheater – but the museum above it is really intriguing too, with some great artifacts from thousands of years ago. Additional information here.
By sunset`s end, make your way up to Castel San Pietro for the best free vista in Verona. The stairway ascent involves numerous steps, though a funicular is available if walking or inability prevents climbing. Descending on foot is advised, as the perspectives are strikingly beautiful.
Sample some local wines from the Veneto region at Osteria ai Portegheti. Veneto wines don’t gain the hoopla that wines from Tuscany attain, but we enjoyed them equally because they center on whites and gentler reds than the huge, bold reds of Tuscany. We treasured this particular place, and the friendly bartenders were extremely helpful, ensuring we figured out which wines were suitable for our tastes.
Afterwards, find a place for a leisurely dinner and call it a night.
The next morning, leave your bags at your accommodations, check out, and head to the Verona Arena, the third largest amphitheater in Italy (after Rome and Capua). While not quite as impressive as the Colosseum, especially due to modern seating and a stage built in the middle for opera performances during the summer, it remains well worth visiting. Signage could also be improved.
Then head back to the train station and catch the train onwards to Venice!
Where to Stay in Verona
The historic center of Verona is fairly compact, so anywhere you stay inside the historic center should work well.
We stayed at Letters to Julietin Veronetta, the oldest region of Verona, and absolutely enjoyed it. We’d greatly suggest it, and it accommodates groups of two to six with three bedrooms (two have single beds), a full kitchen, a clothes washer AND a clothes dryer, and a magnificent sight from the balcony.
Days 9-10: The Canals of Venice
We have strong mixed impressions about Venice. On one hand, it’s gorgeous, and is something everyone should experience once. On the other hand, it exemplifies overtourism`s negative impacts on some places. Nearly no locals now dwell in Venice actually – since, honestly, why would someone want to live in a city overwhelmed by visitors? – and many services are strained by the sheer number of people visiting annually.
So why is it in this itinerary, you’re wondering? Because the waterways are one of the most unique city aspects we’ve ever experienced, and we firmly believe it’s worth experiencing an evening stroll along them at dusk once in your life.
Here is a resource discussing ways to experience Venice while minimizing negative impacts. Here’s another similar guide. We’d advise applying their suggestions not just in Venice, but throughout this Italy trip. Avoid renting entire homes, bring reusable bags and water bottles, and whenever able patronize local merchants and interact with locals!”
Getting From Verona to Venice by Train
Verona to Venice – just 120 km apart – is an easy rail journey on one of the high speed trains, taking a bit over an hour (about an hour and ten minutes). Multiple trains run daily, and we’d suggest taking one around noon, allowing time to explore Verona in the morning, and spend the evening in Venice.
Tickets normally cost between 18 and 25 Euros, depending on when you make your reservation. Book sooner for better prices on the high speed trains!
Things to Do in Venice
Venice isn’t a huge city, and it’s reasonably expected to cover the main attractions in about a day and a half, which is essentially what is outlined here.
St. Mark’s Basilica & the Doge’s Palace
The most important landmark on the square, and perhaps in all of Venice, is the 9th-century St. Mark’s Basilica. The amazing church is one of the world’s most renowned examples of Italo-Byzantine architecture.
Entry to the Basilica is free, however it can become very busy, so it`s advisable to pre-book an express entry slot online for €3 to bypass long queues.
You can also purchase extra tickets on site to access St. Mark’s Museum (€5), the Pala d’Oro (Golden Alter, €2), and the Treasury (€3). In my opinion, all of these are definitely worth including!
Next door to the Basilica you’ll find another of Venice’s most famed landmarks; the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale).
The stunning Gothic-Renaissance structure was the former residence of the Doges – the rulers of Venice – for over 1,000 years.
Visiting the lavishly decorated Doge`s Palace is best done through the special Secret Itineraries tour. This guided expedition provides access to sections normally closed to the public, such as cells from the prison and chambers applied to torture. Visitors can explore both the open areas and usually concealed spaces of the palace building.
You`ll also be able to cross the renowned Bridge of Sighs where detainees would pass and exhale as they glimpsed Venice for the final time prior to confinement.
Take a Self Guided Walking Tour
Explore some of Venice`s most famous attractions on a self-guided walking tour stretching from the eastern Castello district to the western Dorsoduro neighborhood.
Follow the landmarks in the sequence you discover them below. There’s approximately a 5-10 minute walk among each place.
- Ca Del Sol. Visit one of Venice’s most celebrated traditional mask artisans where you can watch masks being crafted live by local craftspeople and browse their expansive selection of beautiful Venetian masks.
- Libreria Acqua Alta. Furthermore, pass by Venice`s coolest bookstore which became renowned after deciding to safeguard itself from flooding by keeping its book collection in bathtubs, bins, boats and even a full-sized gondola.
- Gelatoteca SuSo. One of the best gelaterias in central Venice. It has plenty of exciting flavors and gluten free cones.
- Ponte di Rialto. Cross over Venice’s most renowned bridge for spectacular views down the Grand Canal.
- Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. From Rialto Bridge, walk along the Grand Canal then to the 15th century Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo and its stunning brick and marble “scala”, or winding staircase.
- Teatro La Fenice. Enter one of Italy’s most famous opera houses. The venue hosts regular opera, ballet and music concerts throughout the year. You can take a brief 45 minute tour of the prestigious theater for only 11 Euros.
- Ponte dell’Accademia. Walk across another of Venice’s most famous bridges which connects the San Marco district to the Dorsoduro district in the west.
- Gallerie dell’Accademia.Conclude your self-guided walking tour at the most important art museum in Venice. This impressive gallery houses one of the largest collections of Venetian paintings from the 14th to the 18th century. There’s no need to pre-book tickets as the museum doesn’t become too busy.
- OR Peggy Guggenheim Collection. If modern art is more your thing, this museum houses one of the best contemporary art collections worldwide, with works from Pollack, Picasso, Dali and more.
A Romantic Gondola Ride
Near the end of your itinerary, experience one last iconic Italian adventure; a scenic gondola journey along the waterways of Venice.
You can board a gondola at one of the many stations across the city. Avoid the longer lines near St. Mark`s Square and the Grand Canal.
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will set you back €80 for 40 minutes before 7:00 pm or €100 for 30 minutes after. Try to arrive just before 7:00 pm so you receive the peaceful evening ambience without the heightened prices.
The Rest of the Venetian Lagoon
Jump on a water transportation vehicle and head out to explore some of the other hidden wonderful places in the Venetian lagoon. You’ll get to discover a whole new side of Venice that many tourists never get to see.
The islands we’d recommend visiting are:
- Murano. A series of little islands linked by bridges, known for the production of luxurious, high-quality Murano glass.
- Burano. Extremely scenic fisherman’s village, renowned for its rows of vibrantly colored houses lining every street or canal.
- Cimitero di San Michele. Venice’s tranquil floating cemetery. You are welcome to visit this unique location but be respectful and do not take any photos.
Where to Stay in Venice
Within Venice, there are two districts we enjoy exploring – Cannaregio and Castello.
Cannaregio
Located in the north of the city, Cannaregio is the area of the city where many Jews once lived, filled with numerous beautiful places of worship for Jews and a museum covering the history of Jews. As well as being near Venezia Santa Lucia train station, Cannarego is one of the portions of the city frequented less by travelers, meaning there are plenty of eateries and bars to enjoy that won’t cost you an unreasonable amount for mediocre fare.
Best hotels in Cannaregio:
- A hotel option in Venice ($)
- NH Collection Grand Hotel Palazzo Dei Dogi ($$$)
- Palazzo Vendramin Costa ($$$)
Castello
Castello is a large, local neighborhood situated east of the main tourist district of San Marco. It’s a convenient place to stay in order to be just a brief walk away from many of the city’s main attractions.
Best hotels in Castello:
- Locanda Vivaldi ($$)
- Hotel Ai Cavalieri di Venezia ($$)
- Prince Apartments ($$)
What to Do With Two Weeks
There are countless ways one could expand this ten day itinerary by allocating more time for exploring Italy.
Fortunately for you, we have a perfect two week Italy itinerary if you have additional time and wish to see the main cities along with some of our favorite places in Italy.
14 Days with Cinque Terre and Milan Addition
- Day 1: Rome
- Day 2: Rome
- Day 3: Rome
- Day 4: Rome to Florence
- Day 5: Florence
- Day 6: Florence/Pisa
- Day 7: Florence/Siena and Chianti
- Day 8: Florence to Cinque Terre
- Day 9: Cinque Terre
- Day 10: Cinque Terre to Milan
- Day 11: Milan to Verona
- Day 12: Verona to Venice
- Day 13: Venice
- Day 14: Venice and Fly Home
Florence to the Cinque Terre
To travel from Florence to the Cinque Terre by train, you’ll necessitate swapping at either Pisa or La Spezia then continuing onwards to Monterosso. The journey takes about three hours and costs €15-€25 depending on how far ahead you reserve.
Another choice for the itinerary at this stage would be to rent a car for a few days to travel from Florence to the Cinque Terre region, dropping it off upon arrival in Milan. The drive from Florence to the fishing towns within the Cinque Terre area takes approximately two and a half hours. Possessing a vehicle could also be practical for navigating between the destinations there if extensive walking is not preferred.
How to Spend Your Time in Cinque Terre
While in the Cinque Terre, base yourself in the area’s busiest town of Monterosso al Mare for two nights. Locanda Il Maestrale is a stunning hotel directly next to the coast.
On your first evening, enjoy a romantic evening boat cruise from Monterosso along the coastline to see all of the colorful little fishing villages turn golden in the setting sun. Trust me, this will be one of the highlights of your trip!
For your full day expedition, don walking shoes and hike along the scenic coastal Cinque Terre trail (the #2 Sentiero Azzurro). You`ll have the chance to take in beautiful national park views while touring several of the picturesque towns. Be sure to sample some locally produced pesto.
Spend your final morning exploring Monterosso and relaxing on one of the town’s lovely sandy beaches.
Cinque Terre to Milan
From Monterosso you can hop on a direct train to Milan in just three hours. Tickets typically cost around €30, however, there are only a few direct trains each day so you’ll definitely want to book ahead of time.
If not, you could end up needing to create one or two changes along your journey for the identical price.
How to Spend Your Day in Milan
With only a day in Milan, be sure to stay fairly central.
One accommodation and another option are two great selections near the Duomo. On your first evening, enjoy food and drinks in the interesting Navigli district along Milan’s charming hidden canals.
Situated in the busy heart of Siena, B&B Il Corso is a charming bed and breakfast only thirty meters from Piazza del Campo, allowing guests to easily reach the city center each morning before crowds form.
Next, head to the grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele 11, one of the most stunning shopping centers you’ll visit, and head north to explore the huge 15th century Castello Sforzesco.
In the afternoon, visit La Scala Opera House then head to Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Da Vinci`s mural The Last Supper. Tickets to see the Last Supper must be booked up to three months in advance.
We have an entire guide dedicated to utilizing one day in Milan. It contains exactly what to do in Milan, along with tips for getting tickets for the Duomo and Last Supper, two of the primary attractions in the city. Definitely head over there and read that for more detail on what to experience in a day!
Milan to Verona
High-speed trains travel from Milan to Verona in about an hour and a half and cost €35 if you book in advance. The slower regional trains necessitate a stop in Verona and take three to four hours, however, tickets are cheaper at just €20 and these run much more regularly.
What to Do With 7 Days
If spending 10 days in Italy is not feasible for any reason, that`s completely understandable. But there`s no need to miss out. This is what we`d recommend doing with 7 days in Italy.
7 Days: The Classic Italy Itinerary, Condensed
- Day 1: Rome
- Day 2: Rome
- Day 3: Rome to Florence
- Day 4: Florence
- Day 5: Florence/Pisa or Siena
- Day 6: Florence to Venice
- Day 7: Venice
With only 7 days, you could still do a slightly condensed version of the 10 day Italian itinerary above. You’ll just have a little less time in each destination.
Spend your initial pair of days based in Rome. Start with a guided walking visit of the historic center, seeing sites like the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. With your full day in the city, hit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill in the morning, then later move over to the Vatican for the afternoon. On your final morning, pay a visit to peaceful Villa Borghese Gardens and the incredible Borghese Gallery.
Move on to Florence for the next three nights. With your full day in Florence, spend the morning on a walking tour to explore the best of the city with a local guide. Try to choose a tour that includes Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery.
In the afternoon, visit the Duomo complex then proceed to Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery. End your day by crossing Ponte Vecchio and climbing up to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset.
On your second day based in Florence, take an excursion to either Pisa or Siena and the Chianti wine region. Alternatively, you could book a guided Tuscan day trip incorporating both destinations in a single day.
On the sixth day, board the train to Venice fairly early to provide yourself two full days in Italy’s renowned floating city. Spend one day discovering the historic center, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and taking a gondola ride along the Grand Canal.
On another day, board a boat to explore the lesser-known islands of the Venetian Lagoon, like Murano and Burano.
For more, head over to our guide to planning a one week Italy itinerary, which has six distinct ideas for your trip.
Crash Course in Italian Geography
Italy comprises 20 territories that can generally be categorized as northern Italy, central Italy, southern Italy, and the island territories.
Northern Italy
Northern Italy is renowned for its varied and scenic landscapes, ranging from the dramatically rugged Dolomite Mountain peaks and expansive vineyards to the pristine lakes and lovely coast along the Italian Riviera.
The regions of Trentino and Aosta Valley boast some of Europe`s premier ski destinations. Luxurious Lombardy is home to both the fashionable metropolis of Milan and the high-end resort towns dotting Lake Como. Veneto sees immense popularity across northern Italy thanks mainly to the unique locale of Venice situated upon water.
Central Italy
Central Italy contains the nation’s most historically and culturally significant region that is highly visited by first-time tourists.
The Lazio region contains Rome, once central to the Roman Empire and now home to significant archaeological sites.
The neighboring region of Tuscany in Italy is renowned as the capital of Renaissance art and architecture, home to numerous stunning Italian towns such as Florence, Pisa, and Siena.
Southern Italy
Less visited by tourists than the rest of the country, the south of Italy is known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, charming small towns, and slow pace of living.
Campania is the most renowned region in southern Italy, with popular visitor spots like Naples, Mount Vesuvius and the ancient city of Pompeii, as well as the luxurious coastal towns and resorts along the Amalfi Coastline.
The Islands
Italy has numerous islands scattered along its lengthy coastline, but the two most significant are Sicily and Sardinia.
Sicily is the biggest island in Italy, just off the ‘toe’ of Italy’s ‘boot, and has many beautiful beaches and Baroque cities. Sardinia is another large island to the west of the mainland which is known for its world-class beaches, oceanside clubs, and archaeological ruins. Both islands are popular vacation spots for locals and international visitors.
The proposed 10 day itinerary above takes you through parts of Lazio, Tuscany, and Veneto. You’ll also find variants at the end which include Liguria and Lombardy in the north, or Campania in the south.
When to Visit Italy
There is truly no poor time to visit Italy. From relaxing on white-sand beaches basking in the hot summer sun to skiing in the snow-capped Dolomite Mountains and taking in traditional Christmas markets, there is always something to do throughout the year.
The best time to visit Italy completely depends on the type of trip you`re taking.
For this proposed 10 day trip to Italy I’d suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall.
On our latest trip, we travelled Italy from mid-September through Halloween, and the conditions were extremely pleasant throughout the entire duration of our journey. You’ll still obtain the lovely warm weather but it won’t be too hot to explore sightseeing all day. You’ll also avoid the huge mid-summer crowds at the big tourist attractions.
- Summer represents the peak season in Italy’s major urban zones and destinations attracting visitors. Temperatures are elevated and sunlight persistently beams down. In turn, this likewise signifies the busiest timeframe to tour Italy. There are protracted queues at primary attractions and lodgings upcharge rates matching high demand. In August, locals in Italy exit metropolitan regions to escape the heat`s effects, which can mean eating places, bars, and shops are more predisposed to unanticipated closure.
- Fall is the ideal time to visit Italy. We were in Italy in September and October, and it’s about as pleasant as it gets. The leaves are changing hue – particularly in cooler northern Italy – and the weather is still warm, but it’s calmer than summer as many tourists have already departed. Be certain to bring a few layers and an umbrella in case of drizzle – it can get cold and gray at times (again, especially in northern Italy).
- Winter in Italy can become very frigid. It’s not unusual to experience heavy rain and snowfall, particularly the further north you travel. The best time to visit Italy in winter is during December. Italian cities look beautiful covered in Christmas decorations and there are traditional markets and nativities everywhere you go. Just remember to bring a coat and plenty of layers.
- Spring provides another excellent time to visit Italy. The weather is warm and sunny, flowers are blooming abundantly, and immense summer crowds have yet to arrive.
