Ultimate Italy Itinerary 10 Days For the Greatest Hits 2026 (Plus Free Itinerary)

What is the best way to see Italy for the first time? Where do we even start with this Southern European gem? From beautiful landscapes, rich history, food and wine, and a pure Mediterranean lifestyle, Italy rarely fails to impress. Got just 10 days in Italy? That's great. This Italy itinerary 10 days will take you on a whirlwind trip to the popular trio: Rome, Florence, and Venice. We also show you where to eat like a local, lodging recommendations, and budget travel Italy hacks for your dream trip. If you're ready to see the best of Italy by now, keep reading.

There’s one essential thing you shouldn’t overlook: how to pack for Italy for 10 days? This post will guide you on how to pack right for your Italian trip.

Is 10 Days Long Enough In Italy?

The answer is yes, barely. IG: giuliomusardo

Ten days is not enough to see all the best places to visit in Italy. Indeed, you won’t even scratch the surface. However, it's a perfect amount of time to explore some of the country’s most fabulous cities. Rome, Florence and Venice. You'll hit the famed landmarks, genuinely connect with locals, and sample some great food and, of course, excellent aperitivos.

To make the most of your trip, plan things precisely and get ready for some early mornings to avoid the crowd. Plus, book admissions to popular attractions well in advance unless you want to stand hours in the waiting line. Keep reading to discover the full itinerary. At the end of this post, we also include a free downloadable spreadsheet so you can plan your trip like a pro. 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Italy?

No matter where in Italy you want to go, you need to know the best time to visit. Generally, the sweet spot is the shoulder seasons: April to May and September to October. You can enjoy pleasant weather, without the massive summer crowds, scorching heat, or sky-high prices.

Which month is cheaper to visit Italy? If you visit Italy during the off-season, November to March, excluding major holidays, the prices are normally lower. It is important to note that during the off-season, many coastal destinations only operate with limited services. 

What's the most expensive time to go to Italy? Late June to early September is the peak season in the country. During this season, airfares and hotel prices are skyrocketing, just like the temperatures.

How To Plan An Italy Itinerary For 10 Days?

We recommend having a strategic approach to your trip. First and foremost, don't try to cram too much into one day. For major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, you'll need at least 2-3 days per city to explore. 

For example, the Colosseum and the Vatican in Rome are both huge and have a lot to offer. Trying to do both in one single day will quickly sap your energy. You’re not in Italy to do a marathon against the clock, after all. For first-timers, we highly recommend this tried-and-true "Big Three" Itinerary (Rome, Florence & Venice). 

Day 1-3: Rome

What is the best city in Italy for first-timers? As the saying goes, all roads lead to Rome. This city, with its nearly 3,000 years of history under its belt, is always in the spotlight. Three days in Rome will give you enough time to see the evidence of Ancient Roman civilisation, without feeling rushed and exhausted to move to the next stop. 

How To Get To Rome?

When you fly to Rome, you will either land at Fiumicino Airport (FCO) or the smaller Ciampino Airport (CIA). In both cases, it typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes to get to the city centre. 

• If you arrive at FCO, then take Leonardo Express, the quick and direct shuttle service to reach Roma Termini train station. 

• Ciampino Airport is closer to the city, but it only serves budget airline flights within Europe, such as RyanAir and EasyJet. From there, you can take Ciampino Airlink or SITBusShuttle, which takes around 40 minutes.

Day 1: Statues, Fountains & Piazzas

Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers on Piazza Navona. Photo by ecstk22 on Adobe Stock

Duration: 2.5-3.5 hours 

Get up early for a morning walk (don’t start any later than 7 AM) so you’ll have these sites almost to yourself. Begin with Trevi Fountain (the most crowded spot), then Pantheon and our favourite Piazza Navona to see the Baroque mansions and majestic fountains. 

Next up, you can hang out in the best-known market in Rome, Campo de Fiori (or Field of Flowers in English). Expect to spend a lively morning at any of the surrounding cafes in the market. Lunch ideas: You can grab a quick slice of Roman pizza at Forno Campo de' Fiori or sit down for classic pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe at Ristorante Ditirambo. 

Spanish Steps & Villa Borghese

Duration: 3 hours

Take a deep breath as you’re going to climb 135 steps of the Spanish Steps leading to the Trinità dei Monti. From the top, you’ll get a lovely view overlooking the Piazza di Spagna. 

After resting your legs, make your way to Villa Borghese nearby and enjoy a stroll along the scenic paths and a great view from Terrazza del Pincio (the western edge of the park). You can also find artworks by Caravaggio and Bernini in the Borghese Gallery on site. Note: the Gallery is closed every Monday, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Dinner 

Osteria da Fortunata has perfectly creamy Cacio e pepe and fresh pasta rolled right in front of your eyes. Da Gino al Parlamento is also a no-frills trattoria that serves excellent traditional Roman food. You can find it between the Pantheon and the parliamentary building.

Day 2: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Monti

The Colosseum 

The imposing structure of the Colosseum from the outside. IG: @traveldaveuk

Duration: 2 hours

The Colosseum and Roman Forum are the undisputed headliners of Rome. Tickets cost €18 and already include entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Our best advice is to hit the garden as early as possible to take in the views without the crowds (it opens at 8:30 AM). You’ll need around 2 hours to cover key highlights of the Colosseum, and even more if you plan to see the underground levels. 

This immense stadium, the largest amphitheatre ever constructed, once hosted up to 80,000 spectators. If you secure a skip-the-line tour, you can also get to underground chambers where gladiators waited for their battles. After that, follow Via Sacra to the Roman Forum.

The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

Once a bustling hub of temples, basilicas, and arches, the Roman Forum is now an expansive ruin. However, you can still see many well-preserved structures such as the Temple of Antoninus Pius and Faustina, the Arch of Titus, and the Arch of Septimius Severus. Right next to the Forum is Palatine Hill, where the Roman nobility used to call home. 

From the top, you get excellent views of the city and the Roman ruins below. Plan for one hour at the Forum and half an hour at Palatine Hill. After that, enjoy your lunch at Taverna Romana.

Monti Neighbourhood

Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Even with the Colosseum just a few steps away, the crowds tend to stick to their usual paths, leaving Monti's chill spots totally untouched. You can go shopping at boutique shops, enjoy espresso in secluded cafés, and simply soak in local life. 

Still interested in ancient ruins after your break? Go and see Trajan’s Market, a “shopping centre” that's almost 2,000 years old. And with only 7 euros per person, you can take a lift to the Terrazza delle Quadrighe observation deck for an unrivalled view of the whole city. 

For dinner, check out La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali to eat like Romans. Also in the heart of Monti, Broccoletti puts a contemporary twist on Italian cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients that you don’t want to miss.

Day 3: Vatican Museums & Trastevere

Vatican Museums

It's highly recommended to book online in advance. Photo by dbvirago - stock.adobe.com

Duration: 2–3 hours

The Vatican Museums are among the major museums in Europe, alongside the British Museum in London and the Louvre in France. Even when you’re not a museum enthusiast, we still recommend adding this destination to your plan. 

Our advice is to book far in advance to avoid the sweaty line. Plus, get there as early as humanly possible to truly experience the collection without the crowd. There are two key highlights at the Vatican: the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

With an estimated nine miles of art, expect to spend 2-3 hours inside the building. Make sure you cover all these highlights: Giuseppe Momo's spiral staircase and Caravaggio's dramatic Deposition. Next up, move on to the Sistine Chapel to check out the ceiling and Last Judgment frescoes by Michelangelo.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

There’s also St. Peter’s Basilica right in the area, and the entrance is free. If you’re an art lover, go and check out Michelangelo's Pietà sculpture and his famous dome. You can also go down to see the large crypt network beneath St. Peter’s Basilica for free. The tombs of kings, queens, and past popes are buried there. 

For the best view, climb up to see the whole city at €8. Otherwise, there is a lift option (€10) to skip those 300+ steps. For the best Roman specialities and unbeatable hospitality near the Vatican City, you need to try Ristorante dei Musei.

Trastevere

A neighbourhood with an old charm to it. Photo by Ekaterina Pokrovsky on Adobe Stock

Duration: 2–3 hours

And then Trastevere, for all the authentic culinary experiences and people-watching opportunities in Rome. This neighbourhood is at its best during the evening, when it's packed with locals and tourists hitting up the restaurants and bars. If you’re tired of all the touristy menus on the squares, you'll appreciate this place as much as we did. 

Fatamorgana: Top gelato spot in Trastevere. You can try out many interesting flavours such as pear, chocolate, and almond.

Pizzeria Ai Marmi: You can get the best thin-crust Roman pizza here. Note that this Pizzeria is a crowded spot with tables packed in, so not ideal for a romantic date night.

Supplì Roma: Meet the King of Roman street food. Supplì is a ball of rice coated in rich tomato sauce, with a heart of gooey mozzarella cheese. Think arancini, but Rome-style.

Seu Pizza Illuminati: The fritti (fried starters) are a crowd-favourite here. Move to the main course, order Neapolitan-style pizzas with thick, puffy crusts. It’s a ten-minute walk from Trastevere. 

Freni e Frizioni: This funky spot is first known for its aperitivo buffet, but the creative cocktails there are also a hit.

Where To Stay In Rome?

HT6 Hotel Roma: Very comfortable stay and friendly service for families. The lodging is only 10 minutes from Piazza Venezia, Pantheon, and Circus Maximus. 

Horti 14 Borgo: This boutique hotel is on the southern side of Trastevere, which means you can sleep peacefully away from all the late-night noise. Their brilliant breakfast buffet on the terrace is also a big bonus. 

Grotta Pinta Apartments: This place is a sweet home away from home, with all the amenities that a budget-conscious traveller is looking for. A good kitchen, dishwasher and coffee maker; we couldn’t ask for more. 

Salotto Monti: A mid-range choice if you’re staying in the charming neighbourhood of Monti. Salotto Monti is an easy walk right into the middle of everything in the Eternal City.

Day 4-5: Florence

Welcome to the cradle of the Renaissance. The city is home to a rich heritage, fairytale Tuscan buildings, and an unparalleled collection of masterpieces. Florence is also very walkable, and its quieter, more relaxed pace (compared to Rome) will make you want to wander endlessly.

How To Travel From Rome To Florence?

Your best bet to travel from Rome to Florence is by high-speed train, which takes around 1.5 hours. You'll depart from Termini Station in Rome and arrive at Santa Maria Novella in Florence. We recommend leaving Rome around 4 PM, so you can check into your hotel and explore the streets in the evening. Enjoy your first meal in Florence at Ristorante del Fagioli.

Day 4: Santa Maria del Fiore & Galleria dell’Accademia

Santa Maria del Fiore

When it was built, the Florence Cathedral was the largest church in Europe. Photo by KK imaging on Adobe Stock

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours 

Duomo Interior - 30-45 minutes

Built over 150 years, Florence Cathedral boasts impressive architectural feats of Gothic and Renaissance elements. The Duomo's interior is free to enter, but go early to beat the midday crowds. Inside, check out the massive nave, the colourful stained-glass windows, and the shiny marble floors.

Brunelleschi's Cupola - 60-90 minutes

The Brunelleschi’s Dome (as in the picture) is the largest masonry vault in the world. To best experience this renowned Dome, you’ll need to climb all 463 steps. They can be quite steep, narrow, and claustrophobic, as tourists occasionally stop to marvel at the art. On the bright side, you'll gain access to the walkway around the dome's base and see the Last Judgment frescoes up close.

Baptistery of St. John - 20-30 minutes

The Baptistery of San Giovanni is known for its elaborately sculpted bronze doors, named "Gates of Paradise" by Lorenzo Ghiberti. The museum is completely Byzantine inside, covered from floor to ceiling with golden mosaics. With the light from the late morning, these mosaics literally turn the whole place into something magical.

Lunch

For lunch, the nearby Coquinarius Bistrot offers excellent pastas and wine without breaking your bank. Gelato at La Strega Nocciola Gelateria Artigianale is unbeatable - you should stop by for a scoop (or two). Trust us, this will be a perfect energy boost for the 7-minute walk to the next destination - Galleria dell’Accademia.

Galleria dell’Accademia 

The famous David statue - carved from just a single block of marble. Photo by muratart on Adobe Stock

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

Did you know that Florence has up to three statues of David? Some people can contend that "just go see the replica outside Palazzo Vecchio, which is free". However, if you have a discerning appreciation for art or simply fear FOMO, pay €16 for admission (and maybe €4 for an online skip-the-line fee) to see the real deal. 

We know the David statue is a highlight, but the Galleria dell’Accademia also houses priceless masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Bartolini. Allow yourself about 1.5 hours to truly appreciate them.

Piazzale Michelangelo & Oltrarno

Duration: 2-2.5 hours

At the end of the day, you may want to see the best Florentine sunsets at Piazzale Michelangelo. Walking down, you can wander Oltrarno, the quieter side of the Arno River and explore some authentic Italian cuisine. First, pause for a glass of wine at Le Volpi e l’Uva, a snug bar featuring 350 different wines on the shelves. Then, check out Gelateria Della Passera for creamy gelato goodness or Ditta Artiginale for some espresso. Enjoy your dinner at Osteria Antica Mescita San Niccolò or La Buchetta Food & Wine.

Day 5: The Uffizi Gallery & Ponte Vecchio

The Uffizi Gallery

The beautiful view of the Uffizi Gallery. Photo by marinadatsenko on Adobe Stock

Duration: 2–2.5 hours 

“Uffizi” actually means “offices”, which totally makes sense because this building was originally the offices for the Medici family. The Medicis were serious art lovers who built up their collection to impress the guests. 

Admission is €25, and you can skip the queue by booking a skip-the-line ticket online for an extra €4. Make sure you don’t miss these highlights: The Birth of Venus and Primavera by Botticelli, Annunciation and Adoration of the Magi by Leonardo da Vinci, and Medusa by Caravaggio.

Ponte Vecchio & Vasari Corridor

Ponte Vecchio over the Arno River. Photo by Alexandre Rotenberg on Adobe Stock

Duration: 45 minutes

After you get your art fix, take a walk across the oldest bridge in FL. It’s the only bridge crossing the Arno River that was spared in WWII. You can easily spot little shops of jewellers or goldsmiths hanging preciously on the bridge, a tradition dating back to the 1500s. Above these shops, there is a secret passageway, the Vasari Corridor, that allowed the Medici family to travel discreetly between the Uffizi Gallery and their residence. 

Now, if you’re ready for a midday break, Florentine steak and wild boar at Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco is a must-try. 

Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace

Duration: 2-3 hours

You can totally do both: Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace. However, if you've already seen enough European palaces, skip the Pitti Palace and head straight to the Boboli Gardens right behind it. There are many formal and informal gardens that are perfect for a breath of fresh air. You'll love the beautiful greenery and Renaissance sculptures along the way. Admission tickets to the garden are €10. 

Where To Stay In Florence?

Hotel Lungarno: If you’re looking for the best views of Doumo, this luxury hotel will deliver. You’re right in the Oltrarno neighbourhood, with in-your-face views of the Ponte Vecchio. 

La Maison du Sage: This is a hotel with a whole lot of style if you prefer to stay in Santa Croce. It's right on Piazza di Santa Croce.

Residenza San Gallo 79 + FuordArno Bed & Breakfast: Two solid B&B options if you want a budget-friendly lodging right at the city centre.

Day 6: Cinque Terre - Day Trip

Before you head to Venice, which is another bustling city, we want to take you out to the beautiful countryside of Italy.

"Cinque Terre ("five lands" in Italian) is where five photogenic fishing villages hug dramatic cliffs right by the sea. Starting from the north, the villages of the Cinque Terre are: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. You can visit all five in one day, but it will be quite a rush. Do 2-3 villages if you want to leisurely take it all in.

The best way to hop between the villages is definitely by rail. The trains run frequently, every 15-20 minutes throughout the day. Tickets are pretty reasonable, usually €5-10. Yet, the price is even cheaper if you get the Cinque Terre card, which will cover multiple train journeys and trail access for day-trippers.

How To Travel From Florence To Cinque Terre?

To get to Cinque Terre, take the train from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to La Spezia Centrale. You'll arrive at La Spezia after 2.5 hours, plus 10–15 minutes for transfer to the villages. Our recommendation is to catch the early morning train, so you can get there no later than 9:00 AM. You’ll have the entire day to explore the area.

Monterosso al Mare

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Once you reach La Spezia, you can take a regional train for a 20-minute ride to Monterosso al Mare. This town is the largest of the five Cinque Terre towns, with great sandy beaches perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. The views of the Mediterranean Sea from here are absolutely stunning at every turn. So, get your camera ready. 

Vernazza

Vernazza was the only village with a natural harbour in Cinque Terre. Photo by Cavan for Adobe on Adobe Stock

Duration: 1.5 hours

Spend some time soaking up the atmosphere in Piazza Marconi and the harbour, then take on the Doria Castle Tower climb for an epic view. Before you leave, grab some focaccia pizza slices at Batti Batti Foccaceria for your next train ride.

Corniglia

Duration: 1 hour

The Vernazza to Corniglia hike is the highlight of this trip. Unlike the other towns, Corniglia is the only one in Cinque Terre that's not right on the water. It’s up on a cliff. You’ll stumble on winding through terraced vineyards and olive groves along the way. 

Manarola

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Since the Corniglia-Manarola trail is currently closed, you'll have to take the train to Manarola. This village is known for stunning sunsets, especially from Punta Bonfiglio. Remember to pack your swimwear as cliff jumping is quite popular at the harbour.

Riomaggiore

A view over the Ligurian Sea in Riomaggiore. Photo by Luciano Mortula-LGM on Adobe Stock

Duration: 1–1.5 hours

Here comes the final stop on your Cinque Terre adventure. Seriously, the Mediterranean views from Riomaggiore are just incredible. You'll need to stroll out onto the rocks for unobstructed sunsets when the town lights up. Hungry after all that? You've got to try Rio Bistrot, a Michelin-recommended spot with killer harbour views.

How To Depart From Cinque Terre To Florence?

Just hop on a train from Riomaggiore to La Spezia (10 minutes). Then, catch an evening train that departs between 7:00 and 8:00 PM, and you'll be back in Florence around 9:30 to 10:30 PM. It's a long day, but totally worth it!

Day 7: Siena - Day Trip

Siena is a strong contender for Tuscany's best city. Sitting high above the rolling hills, the city’s old buildings give off a unique, majestic vibe that's hard to beat. Siena is a hilltop town, so expect to do some climbing to get around.

Torrefazione Fiorella

If you arrive in Siena early enough for breakfast, let’s fuel up on a cup of cappuccino and tasty croissants at Torrefazione Fiorella. The restaurant is just one block away from the Piazza del Campo - your next stop. 

Piazza del Campo

Piazza del Campo - the beating heart of Siena. Photo by giuseppegreco on Adobe Stock

Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour

Often simply called Il Campo, this is home to City Hall and Torre del Mangia. The square is also famous for hosting the Palio di Siena horse race twice a year. Directly opposite the Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia, you'll find the Fountain of Joy, a replica of Jacopo della Quercia's 15th-century marble fountain.

Palazzo Pubblico & Torre del Mangia

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Palazzo Pubblico is a testament to the rich medieval heritage of Siena with its 13th-century Gothic structure. This city hall is also home to Museo Civico, where you can see the famous “Allegory of Good and Bad Government” and, of course, the Torre del Mangia.  If you want to climb the tower, make sure to grab a ticket early (they're normally sold out before 10 AM).

Lunch

We love the Tuscan dishes and homemade pastas of Osteria degli Svitati. The restaurant is outside the touristy area, but it’s always packed. You’ll need to reserve your table in advance. Another place to taste Tuscan flavours is Taverna di San Giuseppe, which is only a short walk from Piazza del Campo. If you want some gelato during your afternoon break, Gelateria Masgalano is the place to go. 

Siena Duomo Complex

The ornate exterior of Siena Cathedral. Photo Leonid by on Adobe Stock

Duration: 2 - 2.5 hours

At first, you're likely struck by the black and white marble facade of this cathedral. Yet, the true highlight should be its marble mosaic floor inside the building that depicts the biblical scenes and allegories. If you wonder what a true Italian Gothic cathedral looks like, you should check out the place. Don't miss the Piccolomini Library located nearby, which is adorned with vibrant 16th-century frescoes by Pinturicchio.

Santa Maria della Scala

Duration: 1 hour

The museum offers a journey through Siena's history, from its Etruscan origins to the Renaissance. The admission fee is only 9 EUR, so it’s always worth a stop.

Basilica of San Domenico

Duration: 30 minutes

This 13th-century church, a 7-minute stroll west of Piazza del Campo, is home to the relics of St. Catherine of Siena. It's a key historical site and is open free to the public.

Shop at Via di Città

Duration: 1 hour

Via di Città is a major street that runs parallel to Piazza del Campo and is one of Siena's top destinations for shopping. Stroll along the area, and explore shops, galleries, and gelato spots. Recommended spots for dinner: Antica Osteria Da Divo or Osteria Il Carroccio. 

Day 8: Bologna Day Trip

Italy’s culinary capital, Bologna, deserves at least one day on your Italy itinerary. After all, it is the home of tortellini and ragu (bolognese sauce). Most importantly, Bologna is always a welcome break from Italy’s busier Rome and Florence. 

Don't leave for your Bologna day trip without the right gear. Check out our guide to the best CABINZERO backpacks to take with you.

How To Travel From Florence To Bologna?

It takes around 45 minutes from Florence to Bologna on an intercity train. You can book high-speed tickets early on Trenitalia for the best prices. Make sure you choose "Bologna Centrale" as your destination. If you feel rushed, you can do half of these things and spend the rest of day relaxing.

Piazza Maggiore

Fountain of Neptune - an impressive fountain with a Renaissance style. Photo by ecstk22 on Adobe Stock

Duration: 30-45 minutes

Your day trip to Bologna should start at the beautiful Piazza Maggiore, a lively square surrounded by buildings that are literally centuries old. You can walk around and see some of the city's famous buildings, like Palazzo d’Accursio (the Municipal Palace) and Basilica di San Petronio (more on that later).

Right on the square next to Piazza Maggiore, you can bump into Fontana del Nettuno or the Fountain of Neptune. 

Basilica di San Petronio

Duration: 45-60 minutes

The unfinished facade of this basilica will definitely catch your eye when you’re at the square. In fact, Bologna originally wanted to build the biggest church in the world, even bigger than the one at the Vatican. The dream was put to a halt by the Pope, and that’s why Basilica di San Petronio gets its half-marble, half-brick look today.

Archiginnasio Palace & Anatomical Theatre

Duration: 1 hour 

You'll find the Archiginnasio Palace, which houses the world's oldest university. For €3, you can go inside the Anatomical Theatre - a wooden lecture hall where students learned anatomy from real dissections.

Porticoes Walk

Duration: 30 minutes

No trip to Bologna is complete without exploring the porticoes. Wander through 38 miles (62 kilometres) of iconic arches and experience firsthand why they’ve earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Bologna is famous for its many porticoes. However, you don't need to see them all; instead, take a stunning walk under some of the city's covered walkways on your way to lunch at the Quadrilatero market.

Lunch at Quadrilatero Market

Duration: 1 hour

Just off Piazza Maggiore, you can find Bologna's oldest outdoor market, Quadrilatero. There are piles of fresh produce and fresh catch of the day filling the streets, but your mission is to find Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto, and balsamic vinegar to bring home. Stop by Zerocinquantino for aperitive and small bites during your lunchtime.

Piazza Santo Stefano & The Seven Churches

Duration: 1 hour

Your next stop is Piazza Santo Stefano, a square so stunning that Italians call one of the country's prettiest. Grab a scoop of delicious gelato at Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla and head to the star of the show: Basilica di Santo Stefano, known as “the Seven Churches”.

H4. Asinelli Tower (External Only)

Duration: 20-30 minutes

This is Bologna’s tallest leaning tower (it's even taller than the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa).  Normally climbable (498 steps) for panoramic views, this tower is a real stamina test. However, according to the latest updates, it's currently closed for maintenance. Instead, you can take in the view from 

Hidden Canals 

The hidden canals of Bologna seen from a secret window. Photo by Vivida Photo PC on Adobe Stock

Duration: 20 minutes

Take a quick detour to "La Piccola Venezia," a small window on Via Piella. This is one of the few places where you can glimpse Bologna's surprising network of hidden 12th-century canals.

Free Time & Dinner

Duration: 2 - 2.5 hours 

Here comes the best part of your Bologna trip: the food. Take your time and enjoy the local flavours, whether it's for gelato, an espresso, or an aperitivo before dinner. Dinner ideas: All’Osteria Bottega is no secret to both locals and out-of-towners for its signature ragu, pigeon, and ricotta-filled tortelloni. Alternatively, you can stop by Trattoria da Me for traditional Bolognese dishes with a modern twist or Da Cesari for the best wine selection in town.  

Day 9-10: Venice

We find so much to love about Venice, from the winding canals and passing gondolas, secret alleyways and old bridges. And, yes, the history. Take a breath and get ready for a perfect finale to your Italian trip. 

Salute Basilica by the Grand Canal. Photo by AlexAnton on Adobe Stock

How To Travel From Florence To Venice?

The Florence-Venice route is 253 km long, so the best (also cheapest) way is to travel by high-speed train. You'll depart from Firenze Santa Maria Novella in Florence and arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia in Venice for over 2.5 hours. 

Upon arrival, you can either walk or catch a vaporetto (water bus) from the stop Ferrovia close to the station to your hotel. A water taxi ride will be a splurge, but it'll be a glamorous way to experience Venice when you arrive. The driver will drop you off in style at your hotel's nearest canal. 

Day 9: St. Mark’s Basilica & The Doge's Palace 

St. Mark’s Basilica

The elaborate Byzantine facade of the Basilica. Photo by Nataliya Schmidt on Adobe Stock

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

St. Mark’s Basilica is the #1 landmark in the floating city. The architecture itself is a stunning blend of Roman and Byzantine influences, with ceilings and walls adorned with intricate mosaics (4,000 square meters of them) and treasures from the Crusades. 

And if you think that's extravagant enough, just wait until you get inside and see the Pala d'Oro. This altar piece is entirely covered in gold and sparkling with almost 2,000 gems.

The Doge's Palace

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

The Doge's Palace, an icon of Venetian power, served for centuries as both the residence of the Doge and the seat of government. 

Inside, visitors can see some of the most lavish rooms in Italy, including the Chamber of the Great Council. Even the largest canvas paintings in the world, ‘Paradise’ by Tintoretto in the Sala del Maggior Consiglio, are also on display. 

The place is also connected to the Bridge of Sighs, where the convicts can catch their final glimpse of the city before entering the old prison.

Insider Tips: 

• As with all churches in Italy, be mindful of your dress code. Cover knees and shoulders. Plus, no shorts or hats.

• Skip-the-line tickets are strongly recommended for these two popular sites. You don't want to stand hours in the long, sometimes confusing lines.

• The Basilica is closed until 2 PM for mass on Sunday mornings.

See Venice From The Water

Drift through Venice’s secret canals on a gondola. Photo by Oleksandr Bochkala on Adobe Stock

Duration: 2 hours

Finally, you must set sail across the Grand Canal, a wide, bustling canal that snakes its way through the centre of Venice. First-timers can splurge on a Gondola ride, €80 per gondola (up to six passengers) and €100 from sunset. 

It’s absolutely worth it, as you can discover the beauty of the lagoon at every turn while listening to the gondolier singing. If you’re travelling on a budget, take the Vaporetto (Venice water bus) to explore the sparkling canals at a fraction of the cost. For more money-saving hacks for your trip, check out this Italy travel guide [internal link “Italy travel guide”]. 

Dinner In Venice

Authentic Venetian dishes + a beautiful view from the canals? It’s unbeatable. We recommend booking a table on the terrace at Ristorante Lineadombraterrace.

Day 10: Rialto Market, Bridges, Other Delights

Rialto Market & Rialto Bridge

Duration: 1–1.5 hours

The best time to hit this market is in the early morning. There are stalls of freshly caught seafood and regional produce, so you can easily experience local life. Depending on the season, you can get the freshest local cherries, peaches, and artichokes there for a picnic. There are also soft-shell crabs and eels pulled directly from the lagoon. 

Ponte di Rialto is the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal. Photo by Jorge Argazkiak on Adobe Stock

Right next to the Rialto market, you can easily find the iconic Rialto Bridge, which has been around for over 400 years. Nearby, there’s also Gioielleria Eredi Jovon, a small boutique with quality and authentic Venetian jewellery you want to check out.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

A great destination for modern art. This museum, named after its former resident, collector and New York City socialite Pegg, is housed in her once-private home. You can find a significant collection of twentieth-century art by Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and Kandinsky. Admission is €16 per person, with no reservation required. Allow at least one hour for your visit.

Teatro La Fenice

Duration: 45-60 minutes

For those not opera fans and just have 48 hours in Venice, there's no need to catch a whole performance at Teatro La Fenice. However, we still highly recommend spending half an hour touring this incredible building. The theatre draws the eyes with opulent golden balconies and baby blue ceiling, which will leave you breathless. Then, enjoy your lunch at Osteria Al Squero.

Burano

A calm, colourful corner of Burano. Photo by Fokke Baarssen on Adobe Stock

Duration: 3 hours

You can take a half-day trip to the islands, which is across from St. Mark’s Square. Catch the Vaporetto ferry from Fondamente Nove to arrive in Burano, and you won’t regret it. All the colourful buildings are just made for your Instagram feed. 

Relax and Dinner

End your day with a relaxing evening and a final dinner. It’s a must to enjoy the bounty of fresh seafood wherever you are in Venice. Head to Rio Novo for their always-fresh seafood platters or Antiche Carampane (right at the Rialto Bridge) for their seasonal dishes made from freshly caught seafood from the lagoon. 

Above anything else, you shouldn’t skip cicchetti (Venice tapas). This small plate has become a happy hour staple in the city, best served with an Aperol spritz. If you still have time, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Grand Canal before departure.

Where To Stay In Venice?

Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo: This 3-star hotel is proof that budget lodging exists in Venice. Plus, the San Stae vaporetto stop nearby offers easy access to the entire city.

Ai Reali di Venezia: The original Murano chandeliers, antiques, and period paintings will make you feel like you are in a 17th-century palace. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk to the Rialto, St. Mark's, and the Grand Canal.

Baglioni Hotel Luna: You’re paying for the location. This luxury hotel is mere steps from the iconic Piazza San Marco, and it has a private canal for water taxis and a gondola stop.

Caʼ Bonvicini: For about $200 a night, the rooms are way nicer than you'd expect for that price in Venice. Some even have balconies right over the canal. Best of all? It's a short walk from Rialto Market.

Departure from Venice

Ten days in Italy is quite the adventure, and now it's time to say goodbye. You'll head to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) to fly back home, and here are a few transit options from the heart of the city.

• By taxi: You can take a taxi from Venice Piazzale Roma to get to the airport for around €40 for four passengers. It's a direct and speedy way in case you're almost running late for your flight.

• By water bus (Vaporetto): There are several bus stops at Rialto, San Marco, Fondamenta Nuove, and Guglie. The ride starts at €8 – €15 (plus €3 for extra baggage). It’s slower to travel by Vaporetto, for around 60 - 90 minutes. 

• By bus: Another affordable way to travel on land is by bus. TVO buses usually get you there in 15 to 20 minutes, while ACTV buses take a little longer, around 25 to 35 minutes. The ride will cost you around €4 to €10.

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A Dream Vacation To Italy

What's your Italian dream? Is it getting goosebumps where gladiators fought in Rome, drifting through Venice's secret canals, or sipping wine in sunny Tuscany? Whatever your fantasy, you'll fall head over heels in love with this country. We hope this Italy itinerary 10 days can help you plan an unforgettable trip. Please share this article so more fellow travellers can discover "La Dolce Vita!"

KELSEY