7-Day Itinerary: Rome, Venice, Amalfi, Florence, Milan (Shoestring Budget)
Day 1: Friday, October 6 - Rome
In the morning, start your exploration of Rome by visiting the iconic Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater that is a symbol of the city's rich history. Afterward, head to the Roman Forum, a sprawling archaeological site showcasing ancient Roman ruins. Spend the afternoon wandering through the picturesque streets of Trastevere, known for its charming atmosphere and authentic trattorias. In the evening, make your way to Piazza Navona, a lively square with beautiful fountains and vibrant street artists.
Colosseum: Entrance fee approximately €12 ($14 USD), 2-3 hours
Roman Forum: Entrance fee approximately €12 ($14 USD), 2-3 hours
Trastevere: Free, 2-3 hours
Piazza Navona: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
In the morning, grab a quick and delicious breakfast at Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria, known for its freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee selection. Average cost for a meal is about €5 per person.
For lunch, head to Da Baffetto Pizzeria, a local favorite for its authentic Roman-style pizza. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at La Pergola, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a gourmet dining experience with breathtaking views of Rome. Average cost for a meal is about €150 per person.
Day 2: Saturday, October 7 - Venice
Spend the morning exploring the enchanting canals and narrow streets of Venice. Start your day with a visit to St. Mark's Square, where you can admire the impressive St. Mark's Basilica and the grand Doge's Palace. Take a gondola ride along the canals of the city to soak in the unique atmosphere. In the afternoon, venture off the beaten path to the charming neighborhood of Cannaregio and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quieter canals. End your day at Rialto Bridge, a famous landmark offering stunning views of the city.
St. Mark's Square: Free, 2-3 hours
Gondola ride: Approximately €80-100 ($94-118 USD) per gondola (up to 6 people), 30 minutes
Cannaregio: Free, 2-3 hours
Rialto Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Florian located in St. Mark's Square, where you can enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast with a cup of rich coffee and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about €10 per person.
For lunch, try Trattoria da Remigio, a cozy restaurant tucked away in the narrow streets of Cannaregio. Indulge in their homemade pasta dishes and delicious seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal here is about €15 per person.
For dinner, visit Osteria al Ponte, a charming restaurant near the Rialto Bridge. Savor their authentic Venetian cuisine, including mouthwatering risotto and fresh seafood. The average cost for a meal here is about €20 per person.
Day 3: Sunday, October 8 - Amalfi
Start your day by taking a scenic drive along the stunning Amalfi Coast. Arrive in the town of Amalfi and visit the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral, a magnificent 9th-century Roman Catholic structure. Explore the narrow streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to visit the picturesque island of Capri and marvel at its natural beauty. End your day with a relaxing stroll along Amalfi's pebbled beach and enjoy the sunset.
Amalfi Coast drive: Free, full day
Amalfi Cathedral: Entrance fee approximately €3 ($4 USD), 1-2 hours
Boat tour to Capri: Approximately €40-50 ($47-59 USD), half day
Amalfi Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast in Amalfi, head to Bar Pasticceria "La Scogliera" where you can indulge in delicious pastries and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 8 euros per person.
For lunch, try Ristorante Da Ciccio. This seafood restaurant offers fresh and flavorful dishes with a stunning view of the Amalfi Coast. Average cost for a meal is about 20 euros per person.
For dinner, visit Trattoria Dei Cartari. Known for its homemade pasta and traditional Italian cuisine, this cozy restaurant offers a delightful dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 25 euros per person.
Day 4: Monday, October 9 - Florence
Start your day in Florence by visiting the magnificent Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to a vast collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of the Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops and cozy cafes. End your day at Piazzale Michelangelo, a scenic viewpoint providing breathtaking views of Florence.
Florence Cathedral (Duomo): Entrance fee approximately €18 ($21 USD) for dome climb, 2-3 hours
Uffizi Gallery: Entrance fee approximately €20 ($24 USD), 2-3 hours
Oltrarno neighborhood: Free, 2-3 hours
Piazzale Michelangelo: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ditta Artigianale, a popular coffee shop known for its artisanal coffee and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, head to All'Antico Vinaio, a famous sandwich shop offering a wide selection of mouthwatering paninis filled with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about €7 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Trattoria Sostanza, a traditional Tuscan restaurant known for its mouthwatering Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) and other classic dishes. Average cost for a meal is about €25 per person.
Day 5: Tuesday, October 10 - Milan
Start your day in Milan by visiting the iconic Duomo di Milano, one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Explore the stunning interior and take an elevator ride to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art and culture at the famous Pinacoteca di Brera, which houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance masterpieces. Spend the evening exploring the trendy Navigli district, known for its charming canals, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining options.
Duomo di Milano: Entrance fee approximately €3 ($4 USD) for rooftop access, 2-3 hours
Pinacoteca di Brera: Entrance fee approximately €15 ($18 USD), 2-3 hours
Navigli district: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pasticceria Marchesi, a historic bakery known for its mouthwatering pastries and luxurious ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 10 Euros per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Osteria del Treno, a charming restaurant near the Milan Central Station. Indulge in traditional Italian dishes like homemade pasta and hearty meat dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 15 Euros per person.
End your day with dinner at Trattoria Milanese, a local favorite serving authentic Milanese cuisine. Try their signature dish, Ossobuco, a slow-cooked veal shank with risotto. Average cost for a meal is about 25 Euros per person.
Day 6: Wednesday, October 11 - Rome
Return to Rome for another day of exploration. Visit the Vatican City and explore the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to iconic artworks such as Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Trastevere and indulge in delicious Roman street food. Spend the evening at the Trevi Fountain, a must-visit landmark, and toss a coin into the fountain for good luck.
Vatican City (St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican Museums): Entrance fee approximately €30 ($35 USD), 3-4 hours
Trastevere: Free, 2-3 hours
Trevi Fountain: Free, 1-2 hours
Day 7: Thursday, October 12 - Rome
On your final day in Rome, start with a visit to the Pantheon, a well-preserved ancient Roman temple-turned-church known for its impressive dome. Explore the charming neighborhood of Monti, filled with trendy boutiques and local artisan shops. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of the Roman Forum and enjoy the views from Palatine Hill. End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Tiber River, taking in the beauty of Rome's riverside.
Pantheon: Free, 1-2 hours
Monti neighborhood: Free, 2-3 hours
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Entrance fee approximately €16 ($19 USD), 2-3 hours
Tiber River: Free, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the neighborhood of Testaccio in Rome, known for its authentic Roman cuisine and lively local market. Explore the non-touristy streets and indulge in traditional dishes like carbonara and supplì. Another hidden gem is the Brera district in Milan, offering a charming atmosphere with its narrow streets, art galleries, and quaint cafes. Take a leisurely walk through this neighborhood and discover hidden art studios and local specialties like panettone and risotto.