Italy is a dream destination for travelers, offering a blend of history, culture, and cuisine. This 10 day itinerary in Italy covers the three major cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome.
Italy will always have a special place in my heart. It was one of the first European cities I visited and my grandparents are from Naples and Sicily. I have visited in both Summer and Fall.
This guide is for first timers, to see the major sites in the shortest amount of time of Northern Italy. I hope that you have time to come back to Italy and explore more in the coming years!
Here is my sample 10-day Italy itinerary covering Venice, Florence, and Rome.
Why Visit Italy + 6 Basics Tips
Visiting Italy is like stepping into a living museum, where history, art, and culture blend seamlessly with modern life. The delicious cuisine, welcoming locals, and breathtaking landscapes make it an irresistible destination for any traveler.
Italy uses the Euro (€) as its currency and Italian as its official language.
You can explore Italy via the extensive train system, by car, or you can fly to and from each city.
If you hear rumors about Italy not having air conditioning, that is only partially true. Some accommodations do not have AC, however, there are plenty of locations that do. When you book your hotel accommodations, check if they have air conditioning as it can get very uncomfortable in the summer months. Many restaurants will NOT have air-con.
Travel Insurance
I suggest using Safety Wing for travel insurance when traveling abroad. I have found their rates to be the best coverage and they have great customer service.
In Italy, the coperta is a small cover charge added to your restaurant bill, typically ranging from €1 to €3 per person. It covers the cost of bread, table settings, and sometimes water, and is a standard practice in many Italian eateries.
You need to pay up to €1 to use public toilets in the major cities. You can flush toilet paper everywhere except in most parts of Venice.
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, leaving a small tip (around 10% or just rounding up the bill) is common.
10 Day Italy Itinerary
Day 1-3: Venice
Day 4-6: Florence
Day 7-10: Rome
When to Visit Italy
I would love to say that summer is the best time to visit however now that the temperatures are rising all over the world, it’s unbearably hot June through August.
Plus, in August most Italians take vacation themselves, so many stores and restaurants close. I would suggest visiting in the Spring or Fall.
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather, perfect for exploring the city. Blooming flowers, pleasant temperatures, and fewer tourists.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with many tourists. Lively festivals, long days, and vibrant city life.
- Autumn (September to November): Cooler and less crowded, a great time to visit. Mild weather, beautiful autumn colors, and harvest festivals.
- Winter (December to February): Quieter streets, festive decorations, and cool weather. Venice can be cold and foggy, with occasional flooding (Acqua Alta).
10 Day Itinerary in Italy
Day 1-3: Venice
Venice, the city of canals, is a perfect start to your Italian adventure. You can fly into Venice airport or arrive by train at the Venezia Santa Lucia train station.
Venice can get very crowded with tourists so I suggest starting here to get the busiest location out of the way.
The streets are narrow so it can seem that they are more full. Be patient and plan each day so you do not find yourself without dinner or tour reservations.
Five Must-See Attractions in Venice
St. Mark’s Basilica
Built in 1092, this stunning church features intricate mosaics and impressive Byzantine architecture.
It is free to enter, but if you want to skip the line, you can buy tickets in advance. Check the website for the opening hours as they change frequently.
Google Maps | Open 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Grand Canal
Venice’s main waterway has been the city’s center of activity since the 9th century. A gondola ride is a must.
You can purchase a gondala ride when you arrive in Venice, just be prepared to be flexible as your perfect time slot may not be available. Or you can buy a shared group ride in advance to save some money.
Google Maps | Open 24 Hours
Rialto Bridge
Completed in 1591, this iconic bridge offers beautiful views and access to a bustling market.
This is a free attraction to see, however, I would suggest going early in the morning as it can get very crowded, and challenging to take pictures.
Google Maps | Open 24 Hours
Doge’s Palace
This grand palace, built in 1340, was the residence of the Doge of Venice and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
It is €25-30 to enter. Buy your tickets in advance to skip the lines. Check the website for the hours of operation as they change often.
Google Maps | Check Website for Hours
Murano and Burano
These charming islands are known for their glassmaking and colorful houses, offering a picturesque escape from the city. It is a not to miss on your Italian itinerary in 10 days.
This was my favorite thing to do in Venice as it got me away from the crowds for an entire day. Take a tour that takes you to three islands. On Murano, you can watch glass blowing which is really cool to see in person!
Google Maps | Open 24 Hours
Fun Things to Do in Venice
- Full Day: Walking Tour with a Gondola Ride
- Half Day: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide (Favorite)
- Full Day: Boat Tour of Burano, Torcello & Murano with Glassblowing
Approximate Costs for Venice
You can purchase Gondola Rides and Museum passes while in Venice, the price will not increase if you wait until the last minute. However, the times you want to enter may be sold out.
I suggest booking everything in advance, however. I use GetYourGuide.com and Viator.com when I travel. I have never had a problem with ticket validation and instructions on where to go and when to meet. The instructions are always clear.
- Gondola Ride: €80 for 30 minutes for a shared ride.
- Museum Pass: €50 for access to major museums. See the official website here.
- Public Transport Pass: €20 for unlimited 24-hour travel. Ask your hotel accommodations where to buy this, as most of them sell passes at the front desk.
Venice Accommodation Options:
- Hostel (Private Room Options): Anda Venice
- Campground: Camping Rialto
- Mid-Level Hotel: Hotel Gardena
- High-End Hotel: Al Ponte Antico
Day 4-6: Florence
Next, head to Florence via train the from Venice. Firenze Santa Maria Novella station is your stop. Florence is the heart of the Renaissance, rich in art and architecture.
If you plan to rent a car and drive from Venice to Florence keep in mind that parking can be challenging in the city center. Look for a ” Garage per il parcheggio” on Google Maps for indoor and outdoor parking lots. I left my car at this parking lot here for two days while I visited Rome and had no issues.
You can either take the public bus, hire an Uber, or walk to your accommodations from the train station. If you choose to ride the bus, you can purchase tickets (single rides are approximately €1.50) inside the train station or at a local tobacco (“tabacchi” ) shop. There is also an app you can download called “at”.
Most of the shop owners speak English. Sometimes you can buy bus tickets on the bus but it needs to be in exact change so I would suggest buying them in advance instead.
Book Your Train in Advance
I use RailEurope.com to book all of my European Trains. They are reliable and I have never had an issue trying to redeem a ticket at the terminals.
5 Must-See Attractions in Florence
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Built in 1436, this cathedral features a stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi. You can climb to the top for city views. Only go in the morning to visit as it gets really crowded later in the day.
The cathedral is free to enter or you can buy tickets in advance for a walking tour to learn about the history and skip the lines.
Google Maps | Open Monday – Saturday 10:15 am – 3:45 pm, closed Sundays
Pro Tip:
Dress modestly when visiting places of worship in Italy. Cover your knees and shoulders for both genders. Bring a scarf with you to use as a cover-up if needed.
Uffizi Gallery
Opened in 1581, this gallery houses masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci. It is a must for art lovers, as it houses one of the world’s most important collections of Renaissance masterpieces. You can easily spend three to four hours here.
You can buy tickets in advance starting at €25. There is a cafe on the top floor with a terrace and a wonderful view of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Duomo.
Google Maps | Open Tuesday – Saturday 8:15 am – 9:30 pm, closed Mondays
Ponte Vecchio
This historic bridge, dating back to 1345, is lined with shops and offers beautiful river views.
It’s a free attraction but will get very busy throughout the day. Plan to see the sunset or sunrise to get the best views and beat some of the crowds.
Google Maps | Open 24 Hours
Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens
Palazzo Pitti in Florence is a grand Renaissance palace that once housed the powerful Medici family, showcasing their vast art collections and luxurious lifestyle.
The Boboli Gardens in Florence are a beautiful example of Italian Renaissance landscaping, offering stunning views and peaceful walks through meticulously designed greenery.
Originally laid out in the 16th century, these gardens are filled with statues, fountains, and hidden grottoes, making them a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
You can usually buy tickets on the same day that you want to visit. Check the website for current hours as they close for special occasions. Tickets are €10 for the gardens and €22 for the palace and the gardens together.
Google Maps | Open 8:15 am – 6:30 pm, Pitti is closed Mondays
Winery Tour
Tons of wine tours leave from the city center daily, which will take you anywhere from 60-90 minutes into the Tuscon hills for wine tastings.
I am not going to recommend the tour we took as there was so much traffic on the way back they refused to stop to use the restroom after a full day of wine drinking, and passengers were not happy.
Try to avoid the large group tours unless you are on a tight budget. Opt for a smaller group tour that will take you to two to three wineries.
Fun Things to Do in Florence
Approximate Costs for Florence
I suggest booking all of your tours in advance as Florence can be very crowded with tourists. Check GetYourGuide.com and Viator.com for offers and availability.
Just like in Venice, I did not have any issues with third-party tickets and they were sometimes cheaper than buying same day.
- Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) Entry: Free or €15 for a tour
- Uffizi Gallery Ticket: €25 and you should buy in advance as they do sell out.
- Florence Card: €120 for 72 hours, covers most attractions. Buy here in advance.
Florence Accommodation Options:
- Hostel (Private Room Options): Emerald Palace
- Mid-Level Hotel: Hotel Costantini
- High-End Hotel: Hotel Lungarno
Day 7-10: Rome
Finish your trip in beautiful Rome! The city is accessible by train from Florence, and it is the only way I would suggest arriving. Parking is difficult and expensive so if you can avoid driving a car, choose the train.
Roma Termini is the main train station. From the train station, you can ride the “Metropolitana” or hire an Uber to your accommodations.
Rome has 3 metro lines: A, B, and C. Line A and B cover the city center and some of the most important monuments, like the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and the Vatican. You can buy tickets at the train station and the machines are in English and take credit cards.
When it’s time to leave Rome you can fly out of one of the two major airports Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino Airport (CIA).
5 Must-See Attractions in Rome
Colosseum
Built in 80 AD, this ancient amphitheater’s storied past is fascinating. It hosted gladiator contests and public spectacles. You used to be able to buy tickets the day of entering however, as tourism rises in Rome, you must buy a ticket in advance for a tour.
Walking the grounds without a tour is almost impossible now. The official ticket website is colosseo.it/en/opening-times-and-tickets/. The site claims that you can buy tickets in advance but they sell out within minutes of going on sale.
Instead of banging your head against the wall trying to get tickets on the exact day you want to visit, just buy your tickets through a reliable source like GetYourGuide.com. I used this tour to see the Underground and Palatine Hill in three hours. They also have tours that only show you the above-ground areas.
Google Maps | Check Website for Hours
Vatican City
Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, completed in 1626, and the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo’s ceiling. It’s the spiritual center of Catholicism.
Buy your ticket online in advance, I cannot stress this enough. The entire city is crowded and filled with tourists. Purchase them for early morning or late before they close to avoid the largest of the crowds. You can also buy tickets to skip the line which can save you a few hours.
You must cover your shoulders and dress modestly, this goes for all genders. You will asked to also be silent in the Sistine Chapel.
My Rome Guide has a more detailed explanation of obtaining tickets for Vatican City.
Google Maps | Check Website for Hours
Trevi Fountain
Completed in 1762, toss a coin into this baroque masterpiece to ensure your return to Rome!
I am sure you have seen this fountain on social media, swarmed with tourists at all hours. If you want to see the fountain with fewer people, go early in the morning, like 7 am.
Google Maps | Open 24 Hours
Pantheon
Built around 113-125 AD, admire this well-preserved ancient temple, which was originally a Roman temple and now a church.
Tickets are €5 for adults and free for children. I saw a few people having issues trying to use their credit cards to pay for the tickets, so I suggest that you pay in cash.
My favorite sandwich shop is located in the same plaza as the Pantheon, it is called Antica Salumeria. Take a break and grab a panini and cold water in this small deli, you won’t regret it!
Google Maps | Open 9 am – 7 pm Everyday
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
These ancient sites were the heart of ancient Rome. The Forum was the center of public life, and Palatine Hill is one of the city’s most ancient parts.
You can buy €20 tickets to walk the grounds the day of, but these tickets will NOT get you access to the Colosseum. That is a completely separate ticket.
The Palatine Hill is 5 minutes from the Colosseum entrance. Walk down Via di San Gregio AWAY from the Colosseum and the entrance to the Hill will be on your right.
Google Maps | Check Website for Hours
Fun Things to Do in Rome
Approximate Costs for Rome
Just like Venice and Florence, Rome is a very busy tourist city. Since you only have a few days, buying tours and making reservations are imperative if you want to ensure you do not miss any attractions.
Accommodations will sell out quickly in the busy season however you can still find a wide range of hostels and hotels all year round. I have stayed at the Yellow Hostel in both dorms and private rooms during my visits.
- Colosseum Ticket: Tickets range from €60 – €150 for a tour, buy in advance.
- Vatican Museums: Free to enter without the Sistine Chapel. €17 for certain areas, book ahead to skip the line.
- Rome Pass: €38.50 for 72 hours, includes public transport and museums. Buy tickets in advance.
Rome Accommodation Options:
- Hostel (Private Room Options): Yellow Square Rome
- Mid-Level Hotel: Delfini Trevi House
- High-End Hotel: Palazzo Talìa
Getting Around During Your 10 Day Itinerary in Italy
You can choose to drive or take the train to all three cities for this 10 day itinerary in Italy. As mentioned before, the train is the easiest. However, if you have a lot of luggage, you may want to drive.
Here are the durations and approximate pricing for the train in Italy from Venice to Florence to Rome.
- Venice to Florence: 2 hours by high-speed train, €45-€70.
- Florence to Rome: 1.5 hours by high-speed train, €35-€60.
- If you drive a car, you must have Euros for the tolls. There are many rest stops along the main highways to get food and gas.
Pro Tip for Italy Train Travel:
In most European cities, you need to validate your bus and train ticket BEFORE you ride. You will find small boxes (they vary in color and size) either before you enter the train platform or inside the bus. Put the ticket inside of the machine and it will stamp it with a time.
Book Your Train Tickets in Advance
You should book your tickets in advance so that you can guarantee a lower price, as well as pick your seat. Nothing is worse than sitting backward on a long train ride! There will be space to hold one handheld luggage on the train.
Validate Your Ticket
Make sure you validate your train ticket! If you do not validate your ticket, you could get a fine from the agents on board the train.
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Final Thoughts on Your 10 Day Itinerary in Italy
Italy is truly a place that captivates the heart and soul. This itinerary for Italy in 10 days through Venice, Florence, and Rome offers a perfect blend of history, art, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re wandering through the romantic canals of Venice, marveling at the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, or exploring the ancient wonders of Rome, each city has its own unique charm that leaves a lasting impression.
While this itinerary covers the major highlights, Italy has so much more to offer. I hope this guide inspires you to plan your adventure, but also leaves you with a desire to return and explore the hidden gems that make Italy so special.
Embrace the culture, savor the cuisine, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this incredible country. Buon viaggio!
Traveling Tips for Italy
Is 10 days enough for Italy?
If this is your first time in Italy, and you want to see the major sites that you see on social media, then yes, 10 days is enough. If you want to truly immerse yourself in the culture, plan to stay longer.
In what order should I visit Italy?
If you only plan to see the three cities listed above, you can start or end in either Rome or Venice. Go from north to south, with Florence as your middle stop so you can take advantage of the train system.
What is the best time of year to visit Italy?
The best time to visit Italy is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller.
Do I need a visa to visit Italy?
At the time of this writing, if you are a citizen of the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, or Japan, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Other nationalities may require a Schengen visa. Check the official website for updates.
What is the best way to travel between cities in Italy?
The best way to travel between cities is by train. Italy has an extensive and efficient rail network, with high-speed trains connecting major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Italy?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Italy. Many public fountains also provide clean drinking water.
What are the tipping customs in Italy?
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, leaving a small tip (around 10% or just rounding up the bill) is common.
How can I avoid tourist traps in Italy?
To avoid tourist traps, venture beyond the main attractions, eat where locals eat, and explore lesser-known neighborhoods or towns.
What should I wear when visiting churches in Italy?
When visiting churches, dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and hats should be removed inside the church.
How can I stay connected to the internet while traveling in Italy?
You can stay connected by purchasing a local SIM card, using an E-sim like Airalo, or relying on Wi-Fi, which is available in most hotels, cafes, and public spaces.
Do I need to know Italian to travel to Italy?
While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and help in more rural areas where English may not be widely spoken.
How much does a 10-day Italy tour cost?
Depends on your budget. Check out G Adventures for 7-10 day trips. They range from $2000-$5000.
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