9-Day Shoestring Budget Tour of Rome, Florence, Bologna, Venice, and Lake Como

1. Day 1: Rome
   Distance and Time from previous item: -

   Visit the iconic Colosseum, the largest amphitheater ever built. Explore ancient Roman history at the Roman Forum and the Pantheon

2. Day 2: Rome
   Distance and Time from previous item: 5 minutes (1.3km)

   Take a visit Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel (wear modest clothing).

3. Day 3: Florence
   Distance and Time from previous item: 1h 25m drive (275.1km)

   Experience the Renaissance art and architecture at the Uffizi Gallery and the Piazza del Duomo (Brunelleschi's Dome).

4. Day 4: Bologna
   Distance and Time from previous item: 1h 30m drive (107.8km)

   Indulge the savory taste of Italian cuisine by trying the Ragu alla Bolognese pasta dish. Visit the Fountain of Neptune and the stunning Two Towers.

5. Day 5: Venice
   Distance and Time from previous item: 1h 50m drive & 30m waterbus ride (159.6km)

   Wander through the winding streets of Venice and stroll along the Grand Canal. Take a ride on a Gondola that passes by the popular Rialto Bridge.

6. Day 6: Venice
   Distance and Time from previous item: 30m waterbus ride

   Visit the famous St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Take a trip to the nearby islands of Burano and Murano renowned for their colorful houses and glass works.

7. Day 7: Lake Como
   Distance and Time from previous item: 3h drive (279.6km)

   Relax in one of Italy's most picturesque cities and admire Lake Como's beautiful views from Villa Carlotta and the panoramic gardens of Villa del Balbianello.

8. Day 8: Lake Como
   Distance and Time from previous item: 15m drive (7.7km)

   Visit the charming town of Bellagio to enjoy shopping and dining experiences followed by a beautiful sunset view.

9. Day 9: Lake Como
   Distance and Time from previous item: 20 minutes from the hotel to the airport

   Enjoy a morning coffee in Piazza Cavour before heading to the airport for departure.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Colosseum (2-3 hours, €12-€16)
• Uffizi Gallery (2-3 hours, €16-€20)
• Ragu alla Bolognese (€8-€13)
• Gondola ride (€80 for 30 minutes)
• Villa Carlotta (2-3 hours, €10-€15)
• Bellagio shopping (1-2 hours, €20-€50)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding flights and accommodation): €156-€218

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a trip to Pisa or a wine tour through Tuscany. If less time, consider skipping Bologna or Lake Como. Be prepared for high tourist traffic during peak summer season.