A stupendous city known for its iconic landmark, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the city stands as a testament to Italy's architectural skills. Go on a walking tour of the city, see the Piazza dei Miracoli, and take in the beautiful Renaissance art and architecture.
Venice, the "City of Canals," will amaze you with its impeccable beauty. Take a boat ride through the canals, explore the Venetian architecture, visit Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Don't forget to indulge in the city's specialty dishes like the delicious 'Cicchetti.'
Pompeii, situated near the beautiful Naples, is a city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Here, explore the ruins of the city including the Forum and the ancient Amphitheatre. Also, stroll through the streets and see the cafes, stalls and thermal baths that once existed. Finish the day with some authentic Neapolitan pizza.
The picturesque city of Puglia is a must-visit destination for travelers on a shoestring budget. Here, you can visit the UNESCO-listed historic town of Alberobello, known for its charming Trulli and the Castel del Monte, a fortress and palace built during the medieval period. Additionally, take a walk on the stunning beaches or taste the traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Public transportation like buses or trains can be cost-effective for the shoestring budget with the added bonus of getting to see the Italian countryside and interact with locals. There are many budget-friendly train options throughout Italy. However, be prepared for overcrowded trains during holidays and weekends. Taxis can be another option for shorter trips, but they can be expensive.
If you have more time, consider visiting the stunning Amalfi Coast and the magnificent cities of Florence and Rome. And, if you have less time, consider a shorter itinerary of just Pisa, Venice, and Pompeii. Always try to avoid peak tourist season to save money on accommodations and to visit the sites without the crowds.
The major airport in Italy is Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO) - located 32 km away from the city center. Milan has two airports, Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN), with MXP being the busier one.