Italy Itineraries

Forget "hidden gems"—Italy doesn’t keep its treasures a secret. And you don’t need to dig deep to find experiences worth your time. Sure, everyone knows about Rome and Venice, but we’re here to show you a side of Italy that’s just as unforgettable, without the busloads of tourists.

Recommended Italy itineraries

Our itineraries offer not just boring sightseeing of famous sights, but on the contrary a more enriching immersion into the rich culture, history, and gastronomy of Italy. No matter what exactly you are looking for in a trip, any of them can be customized just for you in a way that reveals the true essence of Italy.

Join us for a journey that will go beyond the ordinary, dive into the heart of Italy's timeless beauty, and experience la dolce vita in a way that only a seasoned traveler can. 

The importance of planning an Italy itinerary

Italy isn’t the kind of place you can just wing it. With each region offering its slice of la dolce vita —from the sun-soaked coastlines of the Amalfi to the vineyard-dotted hills of Tuscany — a little planning goes a long way in making sure you don’t miss out.

A well-thought-out itinerary helps you avoid the “I wish I’d known about that!” moments. Want to wander Rome’s ancient streets and sip Chianti in a Tuscan village? Craving authentic pasta in a tucked-away trattoria, or looking to escape the crowds in Venice? Careful planning ensures you can experience the full range of Italy’s history, culture, and cuisine without wasting a minute. 

Foodie's Italy

This Italy travel itinerary takes on a tour of Italy's culinary hotspots, where each region brings its own unique flavors and long-standing food traditions. Taste Alba's famous white truffles, Genoa's fresh pesto, Bologna's hearty ragù, and Naples' classic pizzas. Along the way, explore traditional markets, try local specialties, and get a sense of why Italian food culture is recognized as a UNESCO heritage. If you have extra time, consider adding Sicily to the itinerary for a full two-week itinerary through Italy.  @

Duration: around 10 days

Alba: 2 days

Alba is a fantastic addition to your vacation itinerary. If you're here at the right time of year you may be able to sample the town's extraordinary white truffles; and at any time you can taste the excellent local wine.

Whether or not you want to taste the extraordinary wines, Alba is worth the visit for its alluring mix of red-brick medieval towers, Baroque and Renaissance palaces and cobbled streets. And if you come in early October, you might catch the town's hilarious annual donkey race – a skit on nearby Asti's prestigious Palio.

The town's only sight as such is its late-Gothic Duomo, standing confectionery-pink on the central Piazza Risorgimento. But Alba is primarily a place to stroll and eat. Leading up to the centre from Piazza Michele Ferrero, Alba's local produce on display – wines, truffles, cheeses, weird and wonderful mushroom varieties, and the wickedly sticky torta di nocciole, a deliciously nutty cake.

Next destination: Alba → Genoa: Regional train from Alba to Genoa Piazza Principe (3 hours)

Genoa: 2 days

The food of Liguria, and in particular Genoa, is among the country's most distinctive: the home of pesto, focaccia, farinata and great fish and seafood. The city – Italy's sixth largest, and one of the busiest in Europe – is still marvellously eclectic, vibrant and full of rough-edged style; indeed "La Superba", as it was known at the height of its powers, boasts more zest and intrigue than all the surrounding coastal resorts put together. Stretching behind the recently revitalized old port, the old town is a dense and fascinating warren of medieval alleyways, increasingly brightened with new shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a series of large palazzi. See why Genoa is the most delicious city in Italy. 

Next destination: Genoa → Bologna: Direct high-speed train from Genoa Piazza Principe to Bologna Centrale (3 hours and 15 minutes)

Bologna: 2 days

Emilia's capital, Bologna, is a thriving city whose light-engineering and high-tech industries have brought conspicuous wealth to the old brick palaces and porticoed streets. It's well known for its food – undeniably the richest in the country. Bologna is certainly one of Italy's best-looking cities. Its centre is startlingly medieval in plan, a jumble of red brick, tiled roofs and balconies radiating out from the great central square of Piazza Maggiore. There are enough monuments and curiosities for several days' leisured exploration, including plenty of small, quirky museums. For your trip to Italy, you'll definitely want at least 2 days here. 

Next destination: Bologna → Rome: High-speed train from Bologna Centrale to Roma Termini (2 hours)

Rome: 2 days

You won't enjoy Rome if you spend your time trying to tick off sights. However, there are some places that it would be a pity to leave the city without seeing. 

The Vatican is perhaps the most obvious one, most notably St Peter's and the amazing stock of loot in the Vatican Museums; and the star attractions of the ancient city – the Forum and Palatine, the Colosseum – are worth a day or two in their own right. In fact, if you do have more time this is a great place to add days: see our 3 day and 4 days Rome itineraries. 

Next destination: Rome → Naples: High-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (1 hour and 10 minutes) 

Naples: 2 days

The capital of the Italian South, Naples is a city that comes laden with preconceptions, and most bear some truth. It's huge, filthy, crime-ridden and in some parts appears to be falling apart; it's edgy and atmospheric, with a faint air of menace; and it is definitely like nowhere else in Italy. Yet Naples has bags of charm, making the noise and disorder easily endurable, even enjoyable, for most first-timers.

It doesn't yet attract hordes of visitors, and is refreshingly lacking in tourist gloss, yet it's a grand and beautiful place, with monumental squares, world-class museums, down-at-heel churches crammed with Baroque masterpieces and all manner of historic nooks and corners – plus innumerable places to enjoy arguably some of Italy's best food, and without a doubt its best pizza. See our guide to the best areas to stay in Naples.  

Italy Outdoors

Discover Italy's natural beauty on an active route through some of the country's most stunning landscapes — one of the best things to do in Italy. From the towering peaks of Gran Paradiso to the striking cliffs of Lake Garda, this 7 day itinerary blends hiking, climbing, and water sports with unforgettable scenery. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, each stop offers unique ways to explore Italy's varied terrain.

Duration: around 7 days 

Gran Paradiso, Valle d'Aosta: 2 days

Gran Paradiso offers an excellent start to any North Italy itinerary, with some of the area's most beautiful mountains and valleys. You'll want to head to the Gran Paradiso National Park – Italy's first national park, spread around the valleys at the foot of 4061m-high Monte Gran Paradiso. The park's three valleys – Cogne, Valsavarenche and Val di Rhêmes – are popular, but tourist development has been cautious and well organized. The hotels are good and the campsites not too vast. There are a few mountain rifugi and bivacchi (unoccupied shelters) between which run well-marked footpaths.

Next destination: Gran Paradiso → Riva del Garda: Bus to Aosta, then train to Verona (4 hours), followed by regional bus to Riva del Garda (1 hour and 30 minutes) 

Riva del Garda, Lombardy: 2 days

Riva del Garda makes an ideal second stop on your 7 day Italy itinerary. Dramatically located beneath sheer cliffs at the northwest tip of the lake, it's unmistakeably a holiday town, but has a long history and the pedestrianized old quarter is still full of character. Riva is a tranquil town that serves as a good base for outdoor activities, with windsurfing, canyoning, climbing and surfing aplenty in the area.

Next destination: Riva del Garda → Vie Ferrate: Bus to Trento (1 hour), then local bus to chosen Dolomites location 

Vie ferrate, Trentino-Alto Adige: 2 days

The vie ferrate of the northern Dolomites offer high-altitude climbing the Italian way. When crafting your best itinerary for Italy's adventure spots, consider spending two days here using the fixed ladders and pegs. These "iron ways" are an Italian phenomenon, consisting of fixed metal ladders, pegs and cables that climbers clip onto with karabiners, making otherwise difficult routes accessible.

Once you've done a few straightforward paths up in the mountains you may be inspired to tackle some ferrate, and there are plenty of specialist guides. 

Next destination: Vie Ferrate → Gran Sasso: Train from Bolzano to L'Aquila (7 hours with changes), then local bus to Campo Imperatore (1 hour)

Gran Sasso, Abruzzo: 1 day

For this itinerary, we end in Gran Sasso. Though it's worth noting that for those with 5 days in Italy to spare for outdoor adventures, Gran Sasso provides a fitting longer stay. Snow can continue to fall on the park's highest mountain, Corno Grande, until late May, making this an ideal addition to any Italy vacation itinerary during summer months. 

Best of central Italy: art and museums

Explore Italy’s rich artistic heritage on this journey through the country’s most iconic cultural landmarks. From Venice’s Byzantine treasures to Florence’s Renaissance masterpieces, this itinerary highlights key moments in Italian art history. Visit renowned museums, awe-inspiring churches, and historic city centers that reflect the depth and diversity of Italy’s artistic legacy. 

Duration: around 10 days

Venice: 2 days

Venice demands at least two days of any Italy itinerary 10 days or longer. The monuments that draw the largest crowds in Venice are the Basilica di San Marco – the mausoleum of the city’s patron saint – and the Palazzo Ducale – the home of the doge and all the governing councils. 

Certainly these are the most dramatic structures in the city: the first a mosaic-clad emblem of Venice’s Byzantine origins, the second perhaps the finest of all secular Gothic buildings. But every parish rewards exploration, and a roll call of the churches worth visiting would feature over fifty names, and a list of the important paintings and sculptures they contain would be twice as long. See where to stay in Venice.

Next destination:  Venice → Padua: Regional train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Padova (25 minutes)
 

Padua: 1 day

Hemmed in by the sprawl that has accompanied its development as the most important economic center of the Veneto, Padua (Padova) is not immediately the most alluring city in northern Italy. It is, however, one of the most ancient, and plentiful evidence remains of its impressive lineage. A large student population creates a young, vibrant atmosphere, and yet in spite of having two big attractions – the Giotto frescoes and the Basilica of St Antony – Padua has the feel of a town that is just getting on with its own business. A day here is one of many unforgettable things to do in Tuscany.

Next destination: Padua → Florence: High-speed train from Padova to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (1 hour and 45 minutes)

Florence: 2 days

Florence serves as the centerpiece of this 10 day Italy itinerary. Since the early nineteenth century Florence has been widely celebrated as the most beautiful city in Italy. Stendhal staggered around its streets in a perpetual stupor of delight; the Brownings sighed over its charms; and E.M. Forster’s Room with a View portrayed it as the great southern antidote to the sterility of Anglo-Saxon life. 

The pinnacle of Brunelleschi’s stupendous cathedral dome dominates the cityscape, and the close-up view is even more breathtaking, with the multicoloured Duomo rising beside the marble-clad Baptistry. Wander from here down towards the River Arno and the attraction still holds. For a more indepth guide, see our guide to the perfect weekend in Florence.

Next destination: Florence → Arezzo: Regional train from Firenze SMN to Arezzo (1 hour) @/articles/best-museums-florence-italy/ 

Arezzo: 1 days

Piero della Francesca’s frescoes – which belong in the same company as Masaccio’s cycle in Florence and Michelangelo’s in Rome – are what makes Arezzo a tourist destination, but in Italy the city is equally well known for its jewellers, its goldsmiths and its trade in antiques: in the vicinity of the Piazza Grande there are shops filled with museum-quality furniture, and once a month an antiques fair turns the piazza into a vast showroom.

Want to spend your entire trip in Tuscany? Be sure to check out our Tuscany itineraries.

Next destination: Arezzo → Assisi: Regional train from Arezzo to Assisi (2 hours)

Assisi: 1 day

Assisi too well known for its own good, thanks to St Francis (see page 478), Italy’s premier saint and founder of the Franciscan order, which, with its various splinter groups, forms the world’s biggest religious order.  

Had the man not been born here in 1182 the town wouldn’t be thronged with visitors and pilgrims for ten months of the year, but then neither would it have the Basilica of St Francis, one of the greatest monuments to thirteenth- and fourteenth-century Italian art. 

Next destination: Assisi → Rome: Regional train from Assisi to Roma Termini (2 hours and 30 minutes)

Rome: 2 days

There are plenty of fantastic things to do in Rome. There are remnants of the ancient Roman era all over the city, but the most concentrated and central grouping is the area that stretches southeast from the Capitoline Hill. Mussolini ploughed the Via dei Fori Imperiali road through here in the 1930s, with the intention of turning it into one giant archeological park, and this to some extent is what it is. You could spend a good day or so picking your way through the rubble of what was once the heart of the ancient world.  

Best of Italy coastal route

This 14 days itinerary blends Italy’s stunning coastlines with its historic cities, offering a mix of relaxation and cultural discovery. Explore charming beach towns, ancient archaeological sites, and vibrant urban centers, experiencing the rich variety Italy has to offer. Along the way, enjoy authentic local life and visit some of the country’s most picturesque and unique destinations. 

Duration: around 14 days

Cetara: 2 days

Tucked away on the Amalfi Coast, Cetara stands out as a genuine, unspoiled fishing village amid its busier neighbors. Known for its colatura di alici, an ancient anchovy-based condiment, the town offers a glimpse into traditional coastal life. Stroll through narrow streets framed by old fishermen's houses, watch the boats return at sunrise, and savor fresh seafood at local restaurants. Be sure to visit the medieval watchtower and the baroque church of San Pietro for a touch of history. 

Next destination: Cetara → Maratea: Bus to Salerno (45 minutes), then regional train to Maratea (2 hours)

Maratea: 2 days

The brief stretch of Basilicata’s Tyrrhenian coast is the most visually ravishing part of the entire region, its tall, sheer cliffs rising dramatically above rocky coves and some first-rate beaches. Though these get overcrowded in summer, the encircling mountains mean that there has been minimal development by the holiday industry. The obvious stop here is Maratea, a dispersed settlement stretching for some 20km along the beautiful rocky coastline, including the hamlets of Castrocucco, Marina, Porto, Fiumicello, Cersuta and Acquafredda.

Next destination: Maratea → Tropea: Regional train (3 hours and 30 minutes)

Tropea: 2 days

Set high on white cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea is a gem of the Calabrian Coast. Renowned for its sweet red onions and stunning sunsets, the town offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Wander through its medieval streets, visit the Norman cathedral, and admire noble palazzi. Relax on sandy beaches below the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery, or enjoy the crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Next destination: Tropea → Cefalù: Train to Villa San Giovanni (3 hours), ferry to Messina (20 minutes), then train to Cefalù (2 hours and 30 minutes)

Cefalù: 2 days

Despite being one of Sicily’s busiest international beach resorts, Cefalù has a parallel life as a small-scale fishing port, tucked onto every available centimetre of a shelf of land beneath a fearsome crag, La Rocca. Roger II founded a mighty cathedral here in 1131 and his church dominates the skyline, the great twin towers of the facade rearing up above the flat roofs of the medieval quarter. Naturally, the fine long sandy beach beyond the harbour is the major attraction, but Cefalù is a pleasant town, with a tangibly Arabic central grid of streets.

Next destination:  Cefalù → Syracuse: Regional train (4 hours) 

Syracuse: 2 days

Under ancient Greek rule, Syracuse was the most important city in the Western world. Today it is one of Sicily’s main draws, thanks to its extensive archeological park, a Greek theatre where plays are still performed and a charming historic centre occupying an offshore island where Greek, Roman, medieval and Baroque buildings of mellow golden limestone tangle along a labyrinth of cobbled streets. In between the two is modern Siracusa, a busy and functional city of undistinguished apartment-lined boulevards.

Next destination: Syracuse → Costa Rei: Ferry from Syracuse to Cagliari (12 hours overnight), then bus to Costa Rei (1 hour and 30 minutes)

Costa Rei: 2 days

Costa Rei, on Sardinia's southeastern coast, features eight kilometers of pristine white sand and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. It’s perfect for swimming, windsurfing, and diving.  Beyond the beach, discover ancient nuraghi towers, hike scenic coastal trails, or head to Monte Ferru for sweeping views. While lively in summer, Costa Rei retains its natural charm year-round and is a great stop on any Sardinia road trip. 

Best of the southern Italy

Southern Italy offers a different slice of Italian life—slower-paced, warmer, and steeped in ancient history. This journey will take you from the bustling streets of Naples to the cliffside villages of the Amalfi Coast, ending in the unique, cave-dotted landscape of Matera. If you’re drawn to archaeological sites, jaw-dropping coastline, and rich southern flavors, this itinerary is for you. If you’re dead set on the south, be sure to see our Southern Italy itineraries. 

Duration: around 7 days

Naples: 1 day

Naples kicks off this South Italy itinerary with its characteristic chaos and charm. Start your day at Spaccanapoli, the historic street that runs through the old center, and visit the Cappella Sansevero to see the stunning Veiled Christ sculpture.

For an unusual thing to do in Naples, the underground tunnels and catacombs beneath the city, then head back up to enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Stop by the National Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, or visit Castel dell’Ovo for incredible views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. 

Next destination: Naples → Pompeii: EAV Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale to Pompeii Scavi (35 minutes)

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius: 1 day

Pompeii is an unparalleled window into Roman life, frozen in time after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Arrive early to wander the forum, temples, and homes with preserved frescoes and mosaics. The plaster casts of the eruption’s victims are a haunting reminder of the disaster. In the afternoon, hike to the crater of Vesuvius. The trail is a 30-minute climb and offers sweeping views of the Bay of Naples. The contrast between the peaceful ruins and the looming volcano makes for a memorable experience. 

Next destination: Pompeii → Amalfi Coast: Circumvesuviana to Sorrento (20 minutes), then SITA bus to Amalfi (1 hour and 15 minutes)

Amalfi Coast: 2 days

The Amalfi Coast blends dramatic landscapes with elegant Italian charm. Base yourself in Positano, where pastel-colored houses tumble down cliffs to a pebble beach. Hike the Path of the Gods for breathtaking views or take a boat to explore towns like Amalfi and Ravello. Visit Amalfi’s stunning cathedral and Ravello’s gardens, which seem to float above the sea. The winding coastal road offers unforgettable views, dotted with lemon groves. Don’t leave without trying scialatielli pasta with seafood or sipping on locally made limoncello.

If you’re hoping to slow down and see our Amalfi Coast itineraries to opt for spending time just in this area alone.  

Next destination: Amalfi Coast → Matera: Bus to Salerno (1 hour), then train to Matera (4 hours with change in Potenza)

Matera: 2 days

Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s most unique destinations. Its sassi districts are home to ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock, some of which were inhabited until the 1950s. Explore the maze of stone streets, visit the Casa Grotta for a glimpse of life in the caves, and see the frescoes in the rupestrian churches. At sunset, head to a viewpoint to watch the city glow golden. Matera has transformed into a hub of boutique hotels and fine dining, offering a fascinating mix of history and modern charm.

Next destination: Matera → Bari: Direct regional train (1 hour and 30 minutes) 

Bari: 1 day

Bari combines the energy of a bustling port with the charm of an old town. In Bari Vecchia, you’ll see women making orecchiette pasta outside their homes. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, where the remains of Saint Nicholas (the inspiration for Santa Claus) are kept. Take a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade or explore the shops on Via Sparano in the modern part of the city. Try local dishes like riso, patate e cozze (rice, potatoes, and mussels) and don’t miss the fresh burrata cheese from nearby Andria.

Best time for an Italy vacation

The best time to visit Italy largely depends on your preferences and itinerary. The high season from June to August is ideal for warm weather and vibrant city life but be prepared for crowds and higher prices. For a more balanced experience with mild weather and fewer tourists, consider the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October. These months offer comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and city exploration. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower costs, the low season from November to March is a great choice, though some coastal and mountain resorts may be closed.

High season

The high season in Italy, typically from June to August, offers warm weather and extended daylight hours, ideal for beach vacation and sightseeing. However, this period also brings large crowds, higher prices, and hot temperatures.

Shoulder season

The shoulder seasons, April to May and September to October, strike a balance with milder weather and fewer tourists. This period is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking in Tuscany or exploring the Amalfi Coast. 

Low season

Italy's low season, from November to March, is ideal for budget travelers and those who prefer a quieter experience. The cooler weather is conducive for city tours and visiting museums without the rush. While some coastal and mountain resorts may close, major cities and cultural sites remain open. 

Getting around during your Italy trip

Getting around Italy is convenient with its well-developed transportation network. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo connect major cities quickly and efficiently, ideal for long-distance travel. For more flexibility and access to rural regions, renting a car is a good option. Domestic flights are available for covering long distances rapidly.

Public transportation

Italy's public transportation network is extensive and efficient, especially in major cities and tourist destinations. 

Car rental

Renting a car offers flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas and smaller towns. It's ideal for scenic drives in Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, or the Italian countryside. However, navigating in Italian cities can be challenging due to traffic, narrow roads, and limited parking. Car rental is more recommended for countryside excursions than for city travel.

Domestic flights

Domestic flights in Italy are a quick way to travel long distances, such as from Milan to Sicily or Rome to Sardinia. While faster than trains or cars, flights can be less cost-effective and environmentally friendly. They are a good option for those with limited time or for reaching islands and remote regions.

Want to explore Europe even more? We have prepared the most convenient European itineraries for you to explore the continent.