7-Day Budget Itinerary for Italy

Saturday, October 28: Exploring Rome

Start your trip by exploring the stunning city of Rome. In the morning, visit the iconic Colosseum and imagine the gladiatorial battles that took place within its walls. Afterward, wander through the Roman Forum and transport yourself back to ancient times. In the afternoon, visit the Vatican City and marvel at the beauty of St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the charming streets of Trastevere and enjoy a delicious dinner in one of its traditional trattorias.

• Colosseum: €12 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Roman Forum: €12 (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Vatican City: €17 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Trastevere: Free (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)

Sunday, October 29: Romantic Venice

Embark on a romantic adventure in the city of Venice. In the morning, take a gondola ride along the famous canals, admiring the beautiful bridges and architecture. Explore the iconic St. Mark's Square and visit St. Mark's Basilica to marvel at its intricate design. In the afternoon, wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems like the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. As the evening approaches, savor a traditional Venetian dinner in a quaint local restaurant.

• Gondola Ride: €80 (estimated cost for two people), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• St. Mark's Square: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• St. Mark's Basilica: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Rialto Bridge: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Bridge of Sighs: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)

Monday, October 30: Charming Florence

Immerse yourself in the artistic and historical treasures of Florence. Begin the day by visiting the magnificent Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, and admire its beautiful dome. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. In the afternoon, cross the Ponte Vecchio and enjoy a walk along the Arno River. As the evening sets in, climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

• Florence Cathedral: €15 (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Uffizi Gallery: €16 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Ponte Vecchio: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Piazzale Michelangelo: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)

Tuesday, October 31: Picturesque Cinque Terre

Discover the stunning coastal region of Cinque Terre. Start your day by hiking along the scenic trails that connect the five colorful villages, taking in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. In the afternoon, relax on the beach in Monterosso al Mare or explore the charming streets of Vernazza. As the evening approaches, indulge in fresh seafood and sample the local wines.

• Cinque Terre Hiking Pass: €12 (estimated cost), 3-4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Monterosso al Mare: Free (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Vernazza: Free (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)

Wednesday, November 1: Historical Pompeii

Travel back in time as you explore the ancient city of Pompeii. Spend the morning wandering through the remarkably preserved ruins and imagining life in this Roman city before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. In the afternoon, visit the archaeological site of Herculaneum, another city buried by the volcanic eruption. As the evening sets in, relax in the nearby town of Sorrento and enjoy the picturesque views of the Bay of Naples.

• Pompeii Ruins: €16 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Herculaneum Ruins: €13 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Sorrento: Free (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)

Thursday, November 2: Enchanting Tuscany

Discover the enchanting beauty of the Tuscan countryside. Start your day by visiting the charming town of Siena and exploring its historic center. In the afternoon, tour the beautiful vineyards of the Chianti region and enjoy wine tastings. As the evening approaches, experience the breathtaking sunset over the rolling hills of Tuscany.

• Siena: Free (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Chianti Wine Tasting: €20 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)

Friday, November 3: Eternal City Farewell

End your trip with a final day in Rome. In the morning, visit the picturesque Trevi Fountain and toss a coin to ensure your return to the Eternal City. Explore the charming neighborhood of Trastevere and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Borghese Gardens and enjoy the view of the city from Pincian Hill. As the evening sets in, bid farewell to Rome with a romantic dinner overlooking the iconic Spanish Steps.

• Trevi Fountain: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Borghese Gardens: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Pincian Hill: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Spanish Steps: Free (estimated cost), 1-2 hours (estimated time spent)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Italy, consider visiting the lesser-known town of Orvieto in Umbria, known for its stunning cathedral and underground caves. Additionally, immerse yourself in the authentic Italian atmosphere by exploring the local markets in each city, such as Rome's Campo de' Fiori or Florence's Sant'Ambrogio Market, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs.

Book your hotel and flights for your Italian adventure here!