Start your trip with a visit to the Colosseum, a world-renowned ancient amphitheater, known for the bloody gladiator fights. Explore the next-door Roman Forum, which was once the center of Roman public life. Stop by Pantheon, a well-preserved ancient temple, and dip your toes in the Trevi fountain, a famous Baroque-style fountain. End your day with famous gelatos like Giolitti and San Crispino.
Travel to the stunning Amalfi Coast, called the playground of the rich and famous. Relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun on the gorgeous Sorrento Beach. Head to Marina Grande for fresh seafood lunch, and later take a leisurely walk at Villa Comunale, a public garden with magnificent views of the sea. End your day sipping Limoncello with breathtaking views of the sunset at Ristorante Il Fienile.
Visit the city of art and architecture, Florence. Start your day with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, a prominent art museum with collections by famed artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Hit the 13th-century cathedral, Il Duomo, to witness its stunning gothic architecture. Browse the exclusive boutiques on the bridge, Ponte Vecchio. End your day with Florentine delicacies like Bistecca alla Fiorentina and Crostini di Fegatini at Burde.
Explore the enchanting city of canals, Venice. Take a Gondola ride and admire its picturesque landmarks like the Rialto Bridge. Discover the St. Mark's Square, visit the iconic Venetian landmark, the Saint Mark's Basilica, and take in the Gothic-Venetian architecture of the Doge's Palace. Grab some tasty pasta and wine at Trattoria da Ignazio and stroll along the labyrinth of alleys in the city.
Visit the fashion capital of Italy, Milan. Start your day with a visit to Il Duomo di Milano, a symbol of Milan's history and culture, and witness the panoramic city views from the rooftop. Head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's oldest shopping mall, for some luxury shopping. Check out Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Dine at Trattoria Milanese dal 1933 for authentic Lombard cuisine like Osso Buco, and end your day with a nightcap at the fashionable Bar Straf.
Relax and enjoy the enchanting beauty of Lake Como, one of Italy's most scenic lakes. Take a ferry ride and cruise around the lake's crystal-clear waters. Visit Villa Carlotta, a stunning botanical garden that exhibits sculptures and vibrant blossoms. Explore the hillside villages like Varenna, Tremezzo & Bellagio, known for their tranquil natural beauty. End your day with a seafood feast at Momò al Chiostro while savoring the splendid lake view.
Most of the travel between the destinations is by train, which is the most convenient, cost-efficient, and fastest way to travel in Italy. Consider purchasing the Eurail Italy Pass for unlimited train access. Another option is Italo Treno, with high-speed train stations throughout Italy. For travel between Lake Como and Milan, hire a car or take a local train.
Estimated Transportation Cost: 390 euros
If you have an additional day or two, add a day trip to Pompeii, a preserved Roman city buried by volcanic ash. If you have more time, consider adding an additional day each in Florence and Rome. If you have fewer days, skip Milan and add additional days to Rome or Florence. Note that most churches require proper dress codes, so pack accordingly. Finally, make sure to purchase your tickets for attractions online in advance to avoid queues.
The primary airport used for this itinerary is Fiumicino International Airport (FCO), located 20 miles from Rome. The closest airport to Sorrento is Naples International Airport (NAP), located 50 miles to the north. The nearest airport to Florence is Amerigo Vespucci International Airport (FLR), located three miles from the city center. For Venice, use Marco Polo International Airport (VCE), located eight miles from the city center. Milan-Linate Airport (LIN) is the closest airport to Milan's city center and is six miles away. Also, consider Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), which is 30 miles away from Milan.