Italy is one of the prettiest countries in Europe. Full of historical landmarks, fashionable cities, charming towns and with a landscape so diverse that you will want to visit this country often. In this 7 days in Italy itinerary, we will share 10 different samples to choose from!
The picturesque coastal cities, iconic UNESCO sites, mountains of the north, and the canals and delicious Italian cuisine make Italy such a popular travel destination and chances are that it has made its way into your heart and onto your bucket list.
7 days in Italy itinerary: How to spend one week in Italy
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What can you do in Italy for 7 days?
As a country, Italy is diverse and is a large country. Thanks to high-speed trains and a regional rail network, you can explore a ton of places in a short time. The key here is to plan your one week in Italy really well and know what interests you. That way you can definitely check off many places from your Italy bucket list.
In this post, we will share multiple city-focused 7 day Italy itinerary, which is perfect for all year round (especially off-season). Then we have regional-specific Italy itineraries covering – Tuscan region, Amalfi Coast, or the northern part of the country.
No car? No problem! We have a few itineraries that use day tours with a base city, and another that relies on the train network to explore more of Italy.
So there is a lot that you can do in 7 days, just pick one that you like, and get packing!
Italy Itinerary 7 days (most popular city & culture trip all year round – our sample 1)
- Day 1:Arrive in Rome, explore
- Day 2: Rome and the Vatican City
- Day 3:Explore Rome highlights
- Day 4:Venice sighsteeing
- Day 5:Venetian Islands
- Day 6: Explore Florence city
- Day 7: Florence
Or a regional specific 7 day Italy itinerary, keeping one city as a base. Like this Tuscany itinerary 7 days (sample 3)
- Day 1: Arrive in Rome or Milan, and take the train to Florence
- Day 2 and 3: Explore Florence
- Day 4: Pisa day trip
- Day 5: San Gimigano day trip
- Day 6: Explore Siena for a day
- Day 7: Chianti wine tour and return to Rome or Milan
| Sample 2 | Sample 4 | Sample 5 | Sample 6 | |
| Day 1 | Rome | Milan (base) | Milan | Milan |
| Day 2 | Rome | Milan | Milan | Milan |
| Day 3 | Rome | Lake Como | Verona | Venice |
| Day 4 | Florence | Cinque Terre | Cinque Terre | Venice |
| Day 5 | Florence | Verona | Cinque Terre | Florence |
| Day 6 | Pisa day trip | Monaco | Cinque Terre | Florence |
| Day 7 | Chianti wine tour | Serravalle | Cinque Terre | Chianti tour |
| Sample 7 | Sample 8 | Sample 9 | Sample 10 | |
| Day 1 | Rome | Sorrento (base) | Florence (base) | Venice |
| Day 2 | Rome | Vietri Sul Mare | Florence | Venice |
| Day 3 | Rome | Amalfi town | Florence | Venice |
| Day 4 | Pompeii | Positano | Bologna | Cinque Terre |
| Day 5 | Amalfi | Capri | Lucca | Cinque Terre |
| Day 6 | Amalfi | Salerno | San Marino | Cinque Terre |
| Day 7 | Naples | Pompeii | Pisa | Dolomites |
Is 7 days enough in Italy?
Wondering how many days are enough in Italy? 7 days in Italy is enough to explore the key highlights that the country has to offer. Plan to fly to Rome or Milan, and then use trains to get to other major cities, or small towns. Stay there overnight.
Or you can also keep a city as your base (like Rome or Florence), and then travel via trains/tours every day.
Ideally, we recommend that you book an extra day for an Italian vacation from the United States, Canada, or Asia. Use this time to travel overseas, factor in the flight and time difference, and then you will have awesome 7 days in Italy to explore.
Have more time? Check out our 10 days in Italy itinerary guide
Preparing for Italy 7 day itinerary: Travel Tips
If you are a first-time visitor, here are essential tips for preparing for your trip to Italy for 7 days (or more).
Italy is located on the continent of Europe (southern part). Its capital city is Rome, and Milan is the largest city. If you are traveling from overseas, especially from Asia, the United States, or Canada, consider arriving in Rome or Milan. Both cities have international airports with a variety of flight carriers that connect you to Italy.
Italy is one of the popular destinations in Europe, and some of the cities are expensive to visit and explore, but it is still possible to keep sightseeing within budget.
Italy is a member of the European Union, and Euro is its official currency.
If you require a tourist visa to Europe or the Schengen zone, you can use the same visa to enter Italy. Visitors holding USA and Canadian passports do not require a visa to visit Italy for a stay of up to 90 days.
For commuting and travel within Italy, we highly recommend using a mix of high-speed and regional trains and tours.
7 day Italy Itinerary: Best of cities & culture travel – Rome, Florence & Venice (Sample 1)
In this very first one week in Italy itinerary, arrive in the capital city of Rome, and then explore Florence and Venice – some of the popular and iconic destinations in the country.
The first route begins in Rome, takes you through the historical landmarks of the Ancient Empire, moves to Venice’s waterways, and then finally brings you to the Renaissance city of Florence.
Are you ready?
Day 1 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Arrive in Rome and explore
Getting to Rome: Rome is served by the Roma Fiumicino Airport (largest), and the Ciampino Airport. This is a great entry point to the country.
From either airport, take a train to get to the city center – Roma Termini (largest train station in the country) and then take trains to other Italian cities or Roman neighborhoods.
- From Roma Fiumicino Airport, get to the city center via direct train service – Leonardo Express (30 minutes), or shuttle buses (40+ minutes)
- If arriving at the Ciampino Airport, then you can book this shuttle bus ride
Where to stay in Rome: We recommend staying at a centrally located hotel in Rome, so that you can walk to popular attractions. Hotels near Termini Station, Piazza Navona, and Pantheon are good options for a short trip.
Hotels: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
Read: Detailed 3 day Rome itinerary
On day one of your Italy itineraries, arrive in Rome and explore the iconic landmarks of the city. Check out the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour. With a tour, you can enjoy a fast-track entry as well as learn about its history. Here is the tour we took, and recommend it.
In the afternoon, enjoy a hop on and off tour to get oriented to the city.
In the evening spend some time wandering through a neighborhood like Monti or Trastevere (“beyond the Tiber”) to appreciate the city’s bohemian alleys and cute trattorias.
Day 2 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Head to the Vatican, and visit other sites in Rome
On day 2 of the Rome itinerary, plan to visit Vatican City. Start early and check out St Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican museums with a guide. Here is a 2 hour tour that you can book.
After exploring the Vatican, stop by the Castel Sant’Angelo for an hour, before making your way to the heart of Rome.
Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as called Hadrianeum was the mausoleum of the Roman emperor Hadrian. It was later converted into a fortress in the 5th century. You can check out various artwork at the fortress museum today.
Here is an entry ticket to the castle (of 1 hour). Be sure to admire the River Tiber and various bridges from the museum.
Up next is the Trevi Fountain. Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, and you can visit this attraction for free. If hungry, you can find a ton of trattorias nearby for a meal or snack!
If you wish to take amazing photos here, you can plan to visit this spot in the morning of day 3.
End the day’s itinerary at the Square of Spain or Piazza di Spagna. The iconic Spanish Steps are located here, which are one of the longest in Europe. The steps climb between the square and Piazza Trinità dei Monti, leading to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.
It is completely free to explore, and we highly recommend it. Piazza di Spagna is also worth a visit – there are tons of designer shops from Gucci to Prada and beautiful cafes and restaurants for dining!
Day 3 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Explore more of Rome, start for Venice in the evening
On day 3 of this 7 day Italy itinerary, visit the Pantheon, followed by the Piazza Navona (you can swap this for Villa Borghese and museums). In the evening, start for Venice.
Start for Pantheon bright and early in the morning. The Pantheon is one of the beautiful Roman attractions, and it is completely free to explore.
It was built as a temple originally and is a Catholic Church now (Hadrian rebuilt it in 126 AD).
Being free, and a touristy site, visitors line up at the entrance 30-40 minutes prior to the gates opening – highly recommend heading there before 08:00 am to beat the rush.
If it gets too crowded, then skip going inside. There are cafes in and around the Pantheon at the Piazza Della Rotonda where you can grab breakfast.
After the Pantheon, it is time to visit another popular spot in Rome – Piazza Navona. This piazza is another free attraction, and it is home to many beautiful Baroque architectures such as Bernini sculptures, and fountains.
It is a great spot to soak in the ambiance of Rome by chilling out at the square or enjoying gelato in one of the quaint cafes. Plus there are lots of open spaces to wander around, hang out and soak in the sun!
After sightseeing, start for Venice. We recommend opting for a high-speed train. It takes about 3 hours to get there. Regular trains take 3 hours 45 minutes.
- Trains depart from Rome Termini Station and arrive at the Venezia Santa Lucia.
- Driving takes 6+ hours, one way.
Day 4 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Explore Venice
Where to stay in Venice?
For a short trip to Venice, we recommend staying by the Grand Canal or Santa Lucia Station. If you are looking for budget options, the neighborhood of Mestre is a good one.
Hotels: Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection | Hotel Campiello | Campanile Venice Mestre
You have a full day in Venice on day 4 of the one week Italy itinerary. Start your morning with a nice breakfast at a canalside cafe.
Head over to the must-visit San Marco Piazza to check out the St Mark’s Basilica, Campanile tower, and the Doge Palace. You can opt for a 3 hour guided tour like this one – Piazza San Marco, and the Doge Palace tour which also covers the Bridge of Sighs.
In the afternoon, enjoy views of the picturesque Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge in Venice. If interested you can also wander the cute district or sestieri of San Polo, which is home to Rialto Market and the Basilica dei Frari.
Go on a private gondola ride (45 minutes) in the evening.
Read: Is the gondola ride in Venice worth it?
Day 5 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Visit Venetian Islands, and start for Florence in the evening
For day two in Venice, head to the Venetian Islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello. We recommend booking a tour so that can explore all three places without hassles (in 5.5 to 6 hours).
These popular islands are located near Venice, and can also be accessed by public transport. Burano and Murano are very well known for their colorful houses and lace and for glass factories respectively.
After exploring 2-3 islands, you will be back in Venice by late afternoon. Vaporetto or water bus will drop you at the center of Venice, so do give yourself enough time to pick up your luggage and then head to Santa Lucia train station.
Getting to Florence:
- Venice to Florence is 2 hours by high-speed train
- Driving takes 3 hours 20 minutes
Day 6 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Explore Florence
Where to stay in Florence?: We recommend staying at the center of Florence for this itinerary. Firenze Santa Maria Novella or Stazione di Santa Maria Novella (train station) is located within walking distance of the centre.
Hotels: La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
Florence is one of the most popular cities in Italy. Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, it is home to many museums, piazza, and stunning architecture everywhere.
On day one of the Florence itinerary, visit one of the Renaissance museums – Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia. Being a popular destination, we recommend that you book your tickets ahead of time.
Allot time to explore the second museum the next day. Uffizi Gallery is a Renaissance art museum and is one of the popular places in Florence. Here is where you can book your tickets.
From the Uffizi, make your way to the Piazza Della Signoria, which is a large public square. This piazza is surrounded by iconic Florentian landmarks such as the Palazzo Vecchio (which is a town hall today), a copy of Michelangelo’s David statue, fountains, and other stunning statues.
In the late afternoon, make your way to the Ponte Vecchio – a medieval arch bridge, built over the Arno River. This is an important city landmark, so don’t miss it.
From Ponte Vecchio, it is a little walk to get to the Piazza Michangelo – but it is all worth it for the views! This is a free attraction and we highly recommend visiting for sunset!
Day 7 of Italy itinerary 7 days: Explore Florence, and return to Rome
On the final day of the 7 day Italy itinerary, visit the iconic Florence Duomo. Explore the interiors and then climb to the top for some amazing views of the city.
In the afternoon, you can visit the Galleria dell’Accademia, which is another Renaissance museum. This gallery is home to the original statue of Michelangelo’s David.
If you would like to skip the museum, then you can browse the Mercato Centrale Firenze market or pay a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella.
Travel back to Rome:
By evening, hop on a high-speed train to return to Rome. Florence to Rome is 1.50 hours by high-speed train, and 3.50 hours by regional trains.
Italy Itinerary 7 days from Rome: Rome, Florence & Pisa (Sample 2)
While the first 7 day Italy itinerary offers a great insight into the three iconic cities, here is a second option that makes it easy to explore – this one is also a more relaxed itinerary covering Rome and Florence in-depth and a day trip to Pisa.
Day 1-3 of one week in Italy itinerary: Explore Rome
Without diving deeper into the Rome and Florence sightseeing tips in the subsequent Italy itineraries, we will just list the sites, hotel, and transportation information.
Hotels: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
Spend 3 days in Rome, and explore the following,
- Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour
- Check out Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Venezia, and wander the neighborhood of Monti
- Visit the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese, and the gardens, followed by sunset at the Pincio Terrace
Day 4-5 of one week in Italy itinerary: Explore Florence
Start for Florence, from Rome. Use high-speed trains to get there in 1.50 hours. Alternatively, you can also use regional trains to get there in 3.50 hours.
Use day four to settle and check in to your hotel.
Hotels: La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
Here is what you can check out in Florence,
- Spend time exploring Renaissance art and structures in Florence like the Uffizi and the Accademia galleries
- Visit the iconic Firenze Duomo
- Palazzo Vecchio & Loggia dei Lanzi, and the Gucci Garden complex
- Check off the Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazza Michelangelo, and the Central Market
Day 6 of one week in Italy itinerary: Explore Pisa from Florence
Go on a day trip to Pisa from Florence, to see the Leaning Tower, Baptistry and the Cathedral. You can use public transportation to get there, visit the complex and then return to Florence.
You can also book this as a half-day tour.
Day 7 of one week in Italy itinerary: Florence & return to Rome
We will share a few options for day 7 of this Italy itinerary. You may choose one based on the return flight from Rome.
- Option 1: Enjoy a wine tour from Florence. Florence to Chianti is 1.25 hours by train. Here is 4.50-hour tour, in which you will get to sample wines and also return to Rome in the evening
- Option 2: Explore 2 more sites in Florence such as Santa Croce Basilica Complex, and Boboli Gardens
7 days in Tuscany Itinerary road trip: Florence & beyond (Sample 3)
Tuscany is one of our favorite regions in Italy. In this 7 day Tuscany itinerary, enjoy the lovely countryside, rolling hills, wines, and more. You can use this sample as a road trip or take trains from Florence to explore.
Getting to Florence: When flying internationally you can get to Italy by arriving in Rome or Milan, and then taking a train (or car rental) to Florence. We have traveled to Florence from both Milan and Rome via high-speed trains, and it has worked well.
Trains take 1.50 hours to get there from Milan or Rome to Florence.
Kickstart your Tuscany itinerary with Florence, and then take day trips (by train, car, or guided tours) to explore more of the region.
Hotels: La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
Your sightseeing agenda will look like this,
- Day 1: Arrive in Rome or Milan, take the train to Florence
- Day 2 and 3: Explore Florence (use sightseeing tips from the previous itinerary sample)
- Day 4: Pisa day trip
- Day 5: San Gimigano day trip
- Day 6: Explore Siena for a day
- Day 7: Chianti wine tour and return to Rome or Milan
In Florence, visit the city highlights like the Uffizi and the Accademia galleries, Firenze Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio & Loggia dei Lanzi, Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazza Michelangelo, and the Central Market,
On day 4, explore Pisa on a day trip. Visit Leaning Tower, Baptistry, and the Cathedral. You can also book this as a half day tour.
Explore the town of San Gimignano on a day trip from Florence (on day 5). This is a beautiful Tuscan hill town that is full of medieval architecture and towers.
Here is what you can do in San Gimignanoin one day
- Visit the town center of San Gimignano and admire its stunning medieval architectural gems
- The Townhall exhibits at the Palazzo Comunale are worth a visit
- Visit the Cathedral of San Gimignano
On day 6 of your Italy itinerary, visit Siena. Siena is like mini Florence. It is known for its art, museums, medieval cityscape, and the Palio, which is a horse race held twice a year in Piazza del Campo.
Here is what you can do in one day in Siena,
- Visit the Siena Cathedral or Duomo di Siena and admire the beautiful marble work
- Hang out at the Piazza del Campo, which is a central square of Siena
- Take a look at the Palazzo Pubblico (palace) which has served as the seat of the Republic of Siena’s government
- Visit the Basilica of San Domenico
On the final day, take a wine tasting tour in Tuscany by visiting classic Chianti wineries.
Northern Italy Itinerary one week from Milan: Milan & beyond (Sample 4)
We enjoyed exploring Milan, and we think it is a perfect base to explore the Lombardy region and other places in the northern part of Italy.
Getting to Milan: Milan is served by the Milan Malpensa Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the country. You can easily find good flights from North America to Milan. Here is a direct transfer between the airport and center
Where to stay in Milan? For a short trip, we recommend staying at the center (Zone 1 of Milan or near the Duomo), or Milan Centrale Station. In order to take day trips, Central Station accommodation is perfect like c-Hotel Atlantic Milano, where we stayed.
Hotels: Starhotels Anderson | Park Hyatt Milan | c-Hotel Atlantic Milano
Day 1 – 2 of Italy 7 day Itinerary: Arrive in Milan & explore
Arrive in Milan and explore the city for the next 2 days. Milan is one of the wealthiest cities in the European Union and is home to the Duomo, the third-largest cathedral in the world.
On your day one of your Milan itinerary, visit the Duomo. Take time to explore the interiors including visiting the archaeological site. Don’t leave without climbing to the rooftop terrace – we are sure you will love the views from up there.
Visiting the Milan Duomo is not free, you can book the tickets here.
Up next is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, one of the oldest shopping arcades in the world. It is located in the Piazza Duomo, and there are cafes and restaurants nearby where you can stop for lunch!
After lunch, make your way to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It is located in Santa Maria Delle Grazie and is a popular attraction in the city. We do recommend booking tickets early to avoid disappointment.
On day 2 of the 7 day Italy itinerary, visit the Sforzesco Castle and the Sempione Park.
In the afternoon, explore Europe’s richest business district aka Porta Nuova, and admire the Vertical Forest aka Garden Houses. You can also utilize the second half of the day at the Navigli canal district.to enjoy a river sightseeing cruise.
Or you can go shopping in the afternoon. The top places to shop are Via Montenapoleone and the famous Quadrilatero Della Moda.
Day 3 to 7 of Italy 7 day itinerary: Day trips from Milan
Milan is great to embark on day trips. For this reason, we recommend staying near Central Train Station. Here is how your itinerary will look like,
- Day 3: Lake Como
- Day 4: Cinque Terre
- Day 5: Verona & Lake Garda
- Day 6: Principality of Monaco
- Day 7: Serravalle Outlet shopping
Enjoy a full-day tour to Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna from Milan. Milan to Como is about an hour by road and on this tour, you get to explore the lakeside, Villa Olmo, plus a sightseeing boat cruise. It also includes time in Bellagio and Varenna.
It is a 10 hour guided tour, with round trip transportation.
The following day get on the road for another day tour, this time to Cinque Terre with a cruise. It is a full-day tour of 13 hours, and it is great if you are pressed for time, and visiting in the off-season.
As part of this guided tour, 2 villages of Monterosso and Manarola are covered.
Up next is Verona – the land of Romeo and Juliet, with Lake Garda. Verona is 2 hours by road or high-speed train. To make it easy here is a 12 hour day tour for you.
On this tour, a guided sightseeing trip of Verona, with stops at the famous Shakespearean sights of Romeo & Juliet, and the Roman amphitheater is included.
Followed by time at the fortified town of Sirmione. The tour ends with sightseeing and an optional boat tour on Lake Garda.
Day 6 of this itinerary is unique, it takes you to the Principality of Monaco on a day trip from Milan. Monaco is the second smallest country in the world; and is known for the Monte Carlo Casino, Grand Prix, and Grace Kelly!
How to get to Monaco? From Milan, take the train to Ventimiglia, and then to Monte Carlo. It is possible to visit for a day, and then return. Ensure you book the earliest trains leaving for Monte Carlo, and return after 5:30 pm.
Here is what you can explore on a day trip to Monaco,
- Check out the Monte Carlo Casino
- Stroll the waterfront and check out fancy yachts!
- Port Hercules is a must-visit, for a stroll and a nice meal
- Visit the Jardin Exotique de Monaco, which is a beautiful garden located on the cliffside
- Visit Sainte-Dévote Chapel
On the final day of the Milan itinerary, enjoy outlet shopping at Serravalle. There are shuttles leaving for the mall, and you can shop from over 350 luxurious and fashionable brands!
7 days in Northern Italy Itinerary: Milan, Verona & Cinque Terre (Sample 5)
Enjoy North Italian highlights on this 7 day itinerary. This is perfect if you wish to take it slow and spend 1-2 full days at each destination.
Day 1 and 2: Arrive in Milan, and then explore Verona followed by Cinque Terre.
Where to stay in Milan? Starhotels Anderson | Park Hyatt Milan | c-Hotel Atlantic Milano
Here is what you can explore in 2 days,
- Visit the Duomo and head to the rooftop terrace. You can book the tickets here.
- Hang out at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
- See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan’s Santa Maria Delle Grazie
- Explore Porta Nuova, and admire the Vertical Forest aka Garden Houses
- Sforzesco Castle and enjoy a stroll at the Sempione Park
- Go shopping (Quadrilatero Della Moda)
- Enjoy a food and wine experience
- Half-day food tour
Day 3 take a trip to Verona. It is about an hour and a half by train to get to Verona from Milan.
Explore the following on a day trip to Verona,
- Wander the Piazza Delle Erbe which is the historical town center
- Visit Juliet’s House and snap a photo of the balcony
- Visit Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
- Soak in views from the Torre dei Lamberti
Spend days 5 to 7 of the Italy itinerary in the Italian Riviera.
In 2 days in Cinque Terre, you can quickly explore the five colorful villages of – Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare.
Getting to Cinque Terre: Take the train from Milan to Monterosso. This town will be the closest to Milan.
- Start your sightseeing in Monterosso, which is a town with a large beach
- From Monterosso, hop on the 5 Terre Express train to reach other villages in a matter of a few minutes. You can also buy a hop-on-hop-off travel card at the station. Alternatively, you can hike to the next village, Vernazza which is also known for a lovely beach
- The next day, hang out at the Riomaggiore beach in the morning, and then by noon head to Manarola for lunch
- Complete the day with a sunset view from Corniglia
- On day 3, go on a short hike from one village to the next (part of the Cinque Terre National Park), and then return to Milan in the evening to fly out
1 week in Italy Itinerary: Milan, Venice & Florence (Sample 6)
This one week itinerary for Italy skips Rome and instead covers Milan (arrival airport), Venice, and Florence.
Day 1 – 2 of Italy itinerary: Arrive in Milan and explore
Getting to Milan: Get to Milan’s Malpensa Airport. From the airport, make your way to the center or train station (which is a good area for accommodation). Here is a direct transfer between the airport and center
Where to stay in Milan? Starhotels Anderson | Park Hyatt Milan | c-Hotel Atlantic Milano
Here is what you can explore in 2 days,
- Visit the Duomo. You can book the tickets here
- Hang out at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
- See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan’s Santa Maria Delle Grazie
- Explore Porta Nuova, and admire the Vertical Forest aka Garden Houses
- Sforzesco Castle and enjoy a stroll at the Sempione Park
- Go shopping
- Enjoy a food and wine experience or half-day food tour
Day 3 – 4 of Italy itinerary: Start for Venice and explore
Getting to Venice: Milan to Venice by high speed train takes 2.50 hours
Hotels: Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection | Hotel Campiello | Campanile Venice Mestre
Spend 2 days in Venice exploring various neighborhoods and attractions like
- Wander along the Grand Canal and districts like San Polo
- Visit the Piazza San Marco, and the Doge Palace
- Go on a private gondola ride (45 minutes)
- Explore the nearby Venetian Islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello. We recommend booking a tour so that can explore without hassles
After the tour, take a train to return to Venice. Or stay overnight in Venice and start for Florence the next day.
Day 5 – 7 of Italy itinerary: Start for Florence, explore and return to Milan
Getting to Florence: Highspeed trains take 2 hours to get from Venice to Florence. Driving time is 3.50 hours
Where to stay in Florence? La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
Here is what you can check out in Florence on days 5 and 6,
- Spend time exploring Renaissance art and structures in Florence like the Uffizi and the Accademia galleries
- Visit the iconic Firenze Duomo
- Palazzo Vecchio & Loggia dei Lanzi, and the Gucci Garden complex
- Check off the Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazzale Michelangelo, and the Central Market
On day 7, take a wine tour in Tuscany by visiting classic Chianti wineries. Or go on a day trip to Pisa. Return to Milan in the evening (Florence to Milan is 1.50 hours by high-speed train).
Italy Itinerary 7 days from Rome: Rome, Pompeii & Amalfi (Sample 7)
You will LOVE this Italy itinerary that focuses on Rome, and Amalfi, and a day trip to Pompeii which can be done from either location.
Day 1 – 3 of 7 days in Italy: Arrive in Rome, and explore
Getting to Rome: For this itinerary, fly into Roma Fiumicino airport. From Roma Fiumicino Airport, get to the city center via direct train service – Leonardo Express (30 minutes), or shuttle buses (40+ minutes)
Hotels: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Termini | Condotti Boutique Hotel | Prassede Palace Hotel
Spend 3 days in Rome, and explore the following,
- Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour
- Check out Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Venezia, and wander the neighborhood of Monti
- Visit the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese, and the gardens, followed by sunset at the Pincio Terrace
Here is a detailed southern Italy itinerary: Rome and Amalfi Coast itinerary 7 days
Day 4 of 7 days in Italy: Take a day trip to Pompeii from Rome
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii from Rome on a day trip. We took a tour, and enjoyed the company of an expert looking at the various sites and their history!
As part of this tour, you can also walk up to the top of Mount Vesuvius with views of the Bay of Naples (available April through mid-November), or free time in Naples (mid-November – March). You can book this day tour with a guide
Alternatively, you can also take a train to Pompeii from Rome. Trains take 2 hours one way. The price of train tickets from Roma Termini to Pompei starts at €12.70 (for a Standard Class ticket).
Day 5 of 7 days in Italy: Amalfi Coast and return to Rome
To explore Amalfi Coast from Rome, you have to make connections via Naples. High-speed trains take 1.50 hours to get there.
Plan to arrive at Vietri Sul Mare in Amalfi from Naples, which has a train station. Trains take an hour to get there. We recommend staying in Naples so that it is easier to get back on day 7 – to Rome to fly out.
Hotels for Naples: UNAHOTELS | Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo (for hotels on the Amalfi refer to the next itinerary sample)
Once you arrive in Vietri Sul Mare on day 5, head to one of the cleanest beaches on the Amalfi – Spiaggia Della Crestarella. Spend the rest of the day here – lazying on a sandy beach.
On day 6, start for Amalfi town. To get to Amalfi town, you can take the train from Naples to Vietri Sul Mare, and then a bus to reach Amalfi town center. It will take about 2+ hours, one way.
Or you can skip the bus, and instead hire a taxi to reach Amalfi in 20 minutes.
Spend a full day in Amalfi, and enjoy a stroll at the Marina Grande, which is Amalfi’s main beach. Visit the Duomo di Amalfi with its unique striped Byzantine facade. Head to the top of the cathedral for amazing views.
You will find a lot of souvenir shops, and restaurants to hang out in.
On day 7, explore Naples for half a day, and then from there make connections for Rome.
7 day Amalfi Coast Italy Itinerary (Sample 8)
This itinerary focuses on the Amalfi Coast. When flying internationally, choose to arrive in Rome, and then take a train or bus to Sorrento. Keep Sorrento as a base to explore the coast.
Day 1 of 7 days in Italy: Arrive in Rome, travel to Sorrento
Use day one of the itinerary to arrive in Rome, and travel to Sorrento. Then check in to your hotel.
Getting to Sorrento: Trains from Rome to Sorrento via Napoli Centrale and Napoli P. Garibaldi take around 3.50 hours. Flixbus offers routes that take around 4.50+ hours, one way.
Where to stay in Sorrento? Hotel Regina Sorrento (with a view) | Sorrento Pool&Suites (affordable)
Day 2 of 7 days in Italy: Sorrento to Vietri Sul Mare day trip
Spend a day in Vietri Sul Mare. You can get there by train from Sorrento.
Rent a sunbed, and enjoy one of the cleanest beaches on the Amalfi – Spiaggia Della Crestarella.
After beach time, go ceramic shopping at the center. Do stop by the Church of San Giovanni Battista or the Cathedral of Vietri.
Day 3 of 7 days in Italy: Sorrento to Amalfi Town day trip
To get to Amalfi town, you have a few options,
- By road (renting a car, taxi, etc). The road distance is 40 km
- By ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi Coast which takes one hour and 30 minutes (one way)
There are a few things to see in Amalfi town, other than beach time. Here is what you can explore on a day trip,
- Relax or enjoy a stroll at the Marina Grande
- Photograph the stunning beach and the steep cliffs surrounding the Amalfi town
- Visit the Duomo di Amalfi with its unique striped Byzantine facade. Admire the interiors, and also head to the top of the cathedral for views
Day 4 of 7 days in Italy: Sorrento to Positano day trip
On day 4, plan to relax in the beautiful village of Positano.
From Sorrento to Positano, ferries depart approximately every two hours and take about 40 minutes to get there. The ticket price is around €15 per person and can be purchased online.
Positano is one of the picturesque villages on the Amalfi. Here is what you can explore in one day,
- Relax at the beach
- Admire the colorful cliffside houses
- (Window) shop in local boutiques
- Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta which features the iconic dome and a 13th-century Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary
- Hike Sentiero Degli Dei trail
Read: Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days
Day 5 of 7 days in Italy: Sorrento to Capri Island
We recommend this day tour from Sorrento to Capri Island and the Blue Grotto. This is a small group tour of 12 guests.
The boat cruise departs from Sorrento and takes you to the sea cave from a small rowboat.
The sea cave is formed by the erosive action of the sea, and its beauty comes from the intense blue color of the crystalline water. The tour covers the whole island and includes Faraglioni, the White Grotto, the Green Grotto, and the Lighthouse of Punta Carena.
You can swim or snorkel in the blue waters at your own pace. Book this day tour here
Day 6 of 7 days in Italy: Salerno
Visit the coastal town of Salerno from Sorrento.
Getting to Salerno: Ferries take 2+ hours to get there, one way
Here is what you can explore in Salerno,
- Visit the Salerno Cathedral dating back to 1085. The church is dedicated to Saint Matthew
- Explore Parco Naturale Diecimare, known for its wildlife and safari park
- Spend time hiking, or walking through this town and enjoying its landscape
Day 7 of 7 days in Italy: Sorrento to Pompeii Archaeological site day trip
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii from Sorrento on a day trip. As part of this tour, you can also walk up to the top of Mount Vesuvius.
You can book this day tour with a guide. This tour also includes lunch.
7 days in Italy on a budget: Florence, Bologna, Lucca, San Marino & Pisa (Sample 9)
In this 7 day Italy trip, you will explore Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Bologna, and San Marino, a microstate in Europe.
Getting to Florence: When flying internationally you can get to Italy by arriving in Rome or Milan, and then taking a train (or car rental) to Florence. We have traveled to Florence from both Milan and Rome via high-speed trains, and it has worked well.
Trains take 1.50 hours to get there from Milan or Rome to Florence.
Kickstart your Italy travel itinerary with Florence, and then take day trips.
Where to stay in Florence: La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B | Grand Hotel Cavour Florence | Hotel Vasari
Your sightseeing agenda will look like this,
- Day 1: Arrive in Rome or Milan, take the train to Florence
- Day 2 and 3: Explore Florence (use sightseeing tips from the previous itinerary sample)
- Day 4: Bologna for a day
- Day 5: Lucca day trip
- Day 6: San Marino day trip
- Day 7: Pisa half-day trip
In Florence, visit the city highlights like the Uffizi and the Accademia galleries, Firenze Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio & Loggia dei Lanzi, Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazza Michelangelo, and the Central Market,
Spend one day in Bologna (day 4). Florence to Bologna is 35 minutes by train.
On a day trip check out the Two Towers of Bologna, visit the Seven Churches of Basilica of Santo Stefano, and the Municipal Palace. Also, take time to eat some delicious Italian pasta, and admire the Fountain of Neptune.
Next visit Lucca (day 5). Florence to Lucca is less than 2 hours by train.
In one day in Lucca, visit its stunning Cathedral, and climb the Guinigi Tower for amazing views. The Church of San Michele in Foro is also another place to add to your list. Do tour the Pfanner Palace and visit the Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi.
For day 6, visit the microstate of San Marino. It is one of the world’s oldest republics, and is wonderful views!
How to get to San Marino? Take the train from Florence to Rimini, and then ride the San Marino bus (near the train station. Landmark: Napoleon Hotel). The bus ride is about 50 minutes. And from there it is just a short walk to the centre.
These are the things to see in San Marino. Admire the Three Towers dating back to the 11th century, and wander the old town and narrow cobblestone streets of San Marino.
You can enjoy a nice short hike, and then visit the Basilica di San Marino which is a Catholic church. If you have extra time, make way to the Palazzo Pubblico, the town hall of the City of San Marino
On day 7, go on a half-day trip to explore Pisa. Check out the Leaning Tower, the Baptistry, and the Cathedral. You can also book this as a tour.
Then return to Rome or Milan (to fly out).
Italy Itinerary 7 days: Venice, Cinque Terre & Dolomites (Sample 10)
In our last 7 day Italy itineraries guide, we will share a sample that covers Venice, Cinque Terre, and the Dolomites.
Day 1 to 3 of one week in Italy: Arrive in Venice and explore
Plan to arrive in Rome or Milan, and then travel to Venice. Or you can make connections to Venice Marco Polo Airport. And then check in to your hotel.
Where to stay in Venice?: Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection | Hotel Campiello | Campanile Venice Mestre
Explore the iconic landmarks like the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square, Piazza San Marco, and the Doge Palace, and go on a private gondola ride (45 minutes).
Use the second day in Venice, to explore the nearby Venetian Islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello. We recommend booking a tour for this
Day 4 to 6 of one week in Italy: Cinque Terre and return to Venice on day 6
Explore the five villages of Cinque Terre next. Admire them all from Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare.
To get to Cinque Terre, take the train from Venice. There are stops in every village but expect to change one train at least. It takes about 4.50 hours+, one way.
Where to stay in Cinque Terre? Arbaspàa (in Manarola) | Santa Marta Rooms via Roma (in Vernazza)
In order to explore all the villages, we recommend the 5 Terre Express train to reach other villages in just a few minutes. You can also buy a hop-on-hop-off travel card at the station to travel between villages.
Here is what you can explore:
- Relax and chill out at a beach in Monterosso.
- Go hiking from one village to another particularly from Monterosso to Vernazza. You’ll have to climb 550 steps along the way, but the uninterrupted views are worth it!
- Admire the colorful village of Riomaggiore, and also hit the beach
- Enjoy a nice meal in Manarola, yes the one with coast views.
- Head to Corniglia to admire Saint Mary’s Terrace for that postcard view of the village!
- Enjoy hikes and trails in the Cinque Terre National Park (free entrance)
On day 6, plan to return to Venice by evening.
Day 7 of one week in Italy: Venice to Dolomites day trip
Without renting a car, use this full-day tour to get a glimpse of the UNESCO-listed Dolomite Mountains.
Visit the mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo and go shopping. Take time to check out Lake Misurina as well as the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks. Tours also stop at seasonal areas like Lake Braies (winter/spring) and Lake Misurina (summer). This is a small group tour of 8 people. Book it here
Additional Italy tips:
So that’s a wrap! We hope you found our post useful in planning your trip to Italy.
We will leave you with some additional tips
How many days in Italy is enough?
14 days in Italy allows you to explore the country without being rushed. We do recommend focusing on a particular region and picking 1-3 cities for this itinerary.
One week in Italy is great too, but if you wish to cover more ground you must be open to using high-speed trains and travel to the next destination in the evening or early to make the most of your trip. 7 days in Italy is best to explore one region and stick to that area only.
How much is a 7 day trip to Italy?
Although Italy is expensive as compared to Lisbon or Sarajevo, it is definitely less expensive than Switzerland or Iceland.
For a 7 day trip, expect to spend $120 per person per day (double occupancy). This includes hotel, meals at a trattoria, and entry fees to some of the attractions.
You can find a nice hotel for $100 USD per night for two.
We didn’t include high-speed train tickets here, as it will vary depending on the itinerary, the city, and how far in advance you are booking.
So, $840 + return flight tickets. Airfare typically starts at $550+ USD round trip.
Is 8 days in Italy enough?
You can surely use one week in Italy to check off some of the iconic landmarks as outlined in our sample itinerary, and then set aside an extra day for traveling!
Other Italy travel guides:
- Italy: Most beautiful list cities in Italy that you must visit
- Italy Itinerary: 2 weeks in Italy itinerary with Amalfi Coast
- Italy Packing List: What to wear in Italy or Italy in November
- Bucket list: From Italy Spain United Kingdom to Portugal, here is the ultimate European bucket list
Pin: 7 day Italy itinerary ideas to add to your bucket list
