Your week in Italy can be a beautiful whirlwind of art, history, cuisine, and stunning vistas that would make your Instagram followers weep with envy. This itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of Rome to the serene canals of Venice, with a few hidden gems sprinkled in. Dust off your passport and prepare for a week of unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
Morning: Land at Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO). Grab a quick cappuccino at the airport café. Yes, it’s overpriced, but you need to fuel up. Take the Leonardo Express train to Termini Station, about 30 minutes. Check into your hotel, drop off your bags, and get ready to tackle the Eternal City.
Afternoon: Start your adventure at the Colosseum. Marvel at this ancient arena while imagining gladiators battling it out. You can buy a ticket in advance to skip the line, which is a lifesaver. Afterward, take a stroll through the Roman Forum, where ancient ruins whisper tales of yore. Grab a slice of pizza from a nearby pizzeria—because if you’re not eating pizza in Italy, did you even go?
Evening: Head over to the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin over your shoulder and make a wish. Pro tip: don’t wish for a better pizza; it’s already perfect here. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a trattoria in Trastevere. Try the cacio e pepe, and wash it down with a glass of local wine. You’ll need it to recover from the day’s walking.
Day 2: Explore Vatican City
Morning: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Then, head to Vatican City. Book a guided tour to dodge the lines and learn about all the art and history. The Sistine Chapel is a must-see, but don’t forget to appreciate the ceiling—no, not because it’s a ceiling, but because Michelangelo painted it. It’s a big deal.
Afternoon: After absorbing all that culture, visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Climb to the dome for a breathtaking view of the city. No elevator here, just good old-fashioned legwork. We all need a little exercise, right?
Evening: Stroll along the Tiber River and enjoy a gelato. Choose a flavor that sounds vaguely Italian—like stracciatella—because you’ll feel classy. Finish your evening at Campo de’ Fiori, a lively square filled with restaurants where you can dine al fresco.
Day 3: Florence and the Uffizi Gallery
Morning: Take an early train from Rome to Florence (1.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and head straight to the Uffizi Gallery. If you want to see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, make sure to book your tickets in advance. Standing in front of such masterpieces is a surreal experience.
Afternoon: After the gallery, wander to the Ponte Vecchio. Snap some photos, and maybe buy a piece of jewelry that you can pretend you didn’t splurge on. Then, grab lunch in the Oltrarno district—try the lampredotto sandwich if you’re feeling brave.
Evening: Climb the steps of the Florence Cathedral for sweeping views of the city. Once you’ve caught your breath, indulge in a traditional Florentine steak for dinner. Pair it with a Chianti wine, because you’re in Tuscany, and it’s practically a rule.
Day 4: Day trip to Pisa and Lucca
Morning: Take a short train ride to Pisa (about an hour). You know the drill: snap a photo holding up the Leaning Tower. It’s a tourist cliché, but it’s a rite of passage. After your photo op, grab a quick coffee at a nearby café. You need the energy.
Afternoon: Head to Lucca, a charming town about 30 minutes from Pisa. Rent a bike and cycle along the well-preserved city walls. It’s the perfect way to burn off that caffeine. Enjoy lunch in Lucca’s historic center; the tortelli lucchese is a local favorite.
Evening: Return to Florence. Take a leisurely walk along the Arno River at sunset. Find a cozy spot for dinner and reflect on your day. You’ve earned it.
Day 5: Venice, the city of canals
Morning: Take a train from Florence to Venice (about 2 hours). Once you arrive, check into your hotel. Then, head to St. Mark’s Square. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and take in the stunning mosaics. Don’t forget to check out the Campanile for a bird’s-eye view.
Afternoon: Enjoy a gondola ride. Yes, it’s touristy and can feel overpriced, but it’s Venice, and you’re obliged to do it. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets and get lost—you’ll find hidden gems around every corner. Stop for lunch at a bacaro, where you can sample cicchetti (Venetian tapas).
Evening: Explore the Rialto Market, and then have dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Grand Canal. Order seafood—after all, you’re by the water. Pair it with a spritz, and you’re living the dream.
Day 6: Murano and Burano
Morning: Take a vaporetto (water bus) to Murano, famous for its glass-making. Watch artisans at work and maybe buy a small souvenir. A glass fish is always a good choice—it's light to carry home.
Afternoon: Head to Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making. Stroll around, take photos, and have lunch at a local trattoria. The risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) is a must-try for the adventurous eater.
Evening: Return to Venice. Spend your last night enjoying a leisurely dinner. Order the tiramisu for dessert, and don’t feel guilty about it. You’ve walked enough this week to justify it!
Day 7: Departure
Morning: Enjoy your last Italian breakfast. Grab a pastry and coffee at a local café, and savor every bite. Take a final stroll along the canals, breathe in the magic of Venice, and mentally prepare for the real world.
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your flight home. Reflect on the memories made, the food devoured, and the countless pictures taken. You might even start planning your next trip before your plane takes off—because once you’ve been to Italy, it’s hard to stay away.
So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to eat your weight in pasta. Italy is calling, and you must go!
