Start your trip by exploring the ancient city of Rome. Visit the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater in the world, and imagine gladiator battles that took place here centuries ago. After that, walk around the Palatine Hill, where Caesar Augustus and other Roman emperors lived. Finish your day at the Trevi Fountain, where you can make a wish and toss a coin over your shoulder.
Head over to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Start at the Duomo (Florence Cathedral), where you can climb to the top for stunning views of the city. Go to the Uffizi Gallery to see art by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and other Italian masters. End your day at the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most famous bridge crossing the Arno River.
Visit the picturesque city of Pisa, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower. Climb up to the top and take in panoramic views of the city. Afterward, take a quick train ride over to the walled city of Lucca, where you can rent bikes and cycle along the ancient walls that surround the city.
Experience the romantic city of Venice, built on a series of islands connected by a network of canals and bridges. Walk around the Rialto Bridge and San Marco Square, where you can see the famous Doge's Palace. Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and soak in the Venetian atmosphere.
Travel to the city of Verona, made famous by Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Visit Juliet's balcony and take a photo with the bronze statue of Juliet. Walk around the Piazza Bra, home to the ancient Roman amphitheater, and enjoy the charming streets of this quaint Italian city.
Visit the fashion capital of Italy, Milan. Start by walking around the stunning Duomo, the largest cathedral in Italy. Go shopping in the Quadrilatero d'Oro (Golden Rectangle), where you can find high-end boutiques and luxury stores. End your day at the Castello Sforzesco, a 15th-century fortress, and art museum.
Explore the scenic Cinque Terre, a string of five villages easily accessible by train. Hike along the coastline from Monterosso to Riomaggiore and enjoy the stunning views. Take a dip in the crystal-clear water, and indulge in the local seafood delicacies.
End your trip by exploring the southern city of Naples. Visit the Pompeii Archaeological Site, the ruins of an ancient Roman city that was destroyed by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Take a walk along the Spaccanapoli, the historic city center, and sample the famous Neapolitan pizza.
If you have more time, consider adding a detour to the picturesque Amalfi Coast or visiting the breathtaking Isle of Capri. If you have less time, you can skip Pisa and Lucca and spend an extra day in Florence or Rome. It is worth noting that some attractions, such as the Colosseum and the Uffizi Gallery, offer skip-the-line tickets, which can save you time and hassle. Finally, be sure to pack comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on this trip!