12-Day Italian Adventure: City, Nature, and Cuisine on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio

Start your day with a delicious pastry and cappuccino at this charming bakery in Trastevere.
Walk or take a bus to the Colosseum.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Colosseum

Dive into history as you explore the grandeur of the Colosseum, imagining the gladiatorial battles of ancient times.
Walk to the Roman Forum.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trapizzino

Enjoy a traditional Roman street food – a sandwich made with pizza bianca and filled with hearty sauces.
Walk to the Pantheon.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Pantheon

Marvel at this architectural wonder, a best-preserved monument from Ancient Rome.
Walk to Piazza Navona.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stroll through Piazza Navona

Take in the beautiful fountains and lively atmosphere in this historic square.
Walk to Trevi Fountain.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Trevi Fountain

Make a wish and toss a coin into this iconic fountain, a must-see in Rome.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 30 mins

5:30PM

Dinner at Pizzeria da Baffetto

Relish a classic Roman pizza at one of the best-rated pizzerias, known for its thin crust and rich toppings.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Vatican City's Treasures

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Sant'Eustachio

Savour a rich espresso and cornetto in a historic café near the Pantheon.
Walk to Vatican City.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Explore the grandeur of this iconic basilica and marvel at its breathtaking architecture.
Walk and explore the Vatican Museums.
EUR15 (free on the last Sunday of the month), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzarium

Enjoy gourmet pizza al taglio (by the slice) in a popular eatery among locals.
Walk or take a bus to Trastevere.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Trastevere

Wander the charming cobblestone streets, discovering little shops and quaint cafés.
Walk to Santa Maria in Trastevere.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Santa Maria in Trastevere

Attend this beautiful basilica with its stunning mosaics and peaceful atmosphere.
Walk to Gianicolo Hill.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Gianicolo Hill Viewpoint

Enjoy panoramic views of Rome while relaxing in this quieter area of the city.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Dig into authentic Roman dishes at this beloved trattoria popular among locals.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Art and Culture in Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Gilli

Start your day with a rich cappuccino and pastry at this historical café.
Take a train to Florence.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Explore one of the world's most renowned art museums, showcasing masterpieces from Botticelli to Michelangelo.
Walk to Ponte Vecchio.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Enjoy local delicacies, from fresh pasta to artisanal cheeses at this vibrant market.
Walk to the Duomo.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Duomo di Firenze

Admire the stunning cathedral and climb to the dome for breathtaking city views.
Walk to Piazza della Signoria.
EUR18, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Piazza della Signoria

Explore Florence's political heart adorned with stunning statues and the Palazzo Vecchio.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Relish in authentic Tuscan dishes prepared with love in this cosy restaurant.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Tuscany’s Charm

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan breakfast of focaccia and coffee at this local pasticceria.
Take a bus to Fiesole.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Fiesole

Explore this quaint hilltop town with stunning views over Florence and ancient Roman ruins.
Take a bus back to Florence.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at All'Antico Vinaio

Try the famous schiacciata sandwiches in a bustling panini shop.
Walk to the Accademia Gallery.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Accademia Gallery

Witness Michelangelo's David and other remarkable pieces of art.
Walk to San Lorenzo Market.
EUR10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shop at San Lorenzo Market

Peruse the stalls for leather goods and local crafts to take home.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Latini

Savour Tuscan specialities in a vibrant and convivial setting with communal dining.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR20, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: The Colours of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up on a simple breakfast as you prepare for a scenic day ahead.
Take the train to Vernazza.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Vernazza

Wander the colourful streets and stunning coastal views of this picturesque village.
Hike from Vernazza to Monterosso.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Il Pirate

Enjoy fresh seafood and Italian cuisine with a view of the harbour.
Hike to the next village.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Monterosso al Mare

Spend some time on the beach or explore this charming village known for its lemon groves.
Take the train to Riomaggiore.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Riomaggiore

Explore the narrow streets and vibrant houses of this colourful village.
Hike or take the train to Manarola.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Manarola

Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the stunning sunset views.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria dal Billy

Delight in local dishes and seafood in a lovely terrace setting.
Walk to your accommodation.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Discovering the Beauty of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria L'Arcobaleno

Start your day with tasty pastries and fresh coffee from this local bakery.
Take the train to Corniglia.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Corniglia

Marvel at the views from this hillside village and explore its narrow, winding paths.
Hike from Corniglia to Vernazza.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Gabbiano

Relish delicious seafood pasta with a view over the cliffs.
Hike back to Vernazza.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax at Vernazza Beach

Soak up the sun and enjoy the afternoon by the beautiful coastline.
Walk to the train station.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Free time

Explore local shops or relax before dinner.
Stroll to your dinner location.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante da Sandro

Feast on traditional Ligurian dishes in a charming, local setting.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Culinary Delights in Bologna

Bologna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Terzi

Wake up with a proper Italian coffee and a pastry in this beloved café.
Take a train to Bologna.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore the Historic Centre

Discover the stunning medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere of Bologna.
Walk to the Basilica di San Petronio.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tamburini

Enjoy a selection of local cheeses and cured meats in this traditional food market.
Walk to the Two Towers.
EUR15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Two Towers

Climb to the top of these iconic towers for an excellent panoramic view of the city.
Walk to dinner location.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Cooking Class Experience

Learn to make pasta with a local chef in a fun and interactive session.
Walk to dinner location.
EUR50, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Gianni

Indulge in authentic Bolognese ragu and delicious homemade pasta.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR20, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Exploring Bologna’s Flavours

Bologna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Atti

Delight in freshly baked pastries while enjoying your morning coffee.
Walk to food tour meeting spot.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bologna Food Tour

Join a food tour to sample local specialities and understand the culinary traditions of the region.
End at a local trattoria.
EUR40, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercato delle Erbe

Experience a lively market atmosphere while enjoying authentic local fare.
Walk to Archiginnasio di Bologna.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Archiginnasio

Explore this historic building that houses the University of Bologna's anatomy theatre.
Walk to dinner location.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Free time for shopping

Stroll through charming streets and shop for unique souvenirs.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Cantuccio

Savour delicious desserts and pasta specialties, rounding up your culinary journey.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR15, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Venice: The Floating City

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your exploration of this enchanting city.
Take a train to Venice.
EUR20, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore St. Mark's Square

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this iconic piazza with its stunning basilica.
Walk to Doge's Palace.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Doge's Palace

Step inside this historical building to learn about the politics of the Venetian Republic.
Walk or use a vaporetto to take a ride along the Grand Canal.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Venetian cuisine in an intimate setting.
Walk to the Rialto Market.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Rialto Market

Browse through the bustling market full of fresh produce and local delicacies.
Walk to the Gondola stations.
EUR80 (shared gondola ride), 1 hour

4:30PM

Gondola Ride

Experience Venice from the water as you glide through its iconic canals.
Stroll to dinner location.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Fiore

Savour delightful pasta dishes in a cozy restaurant while enjoying authentic Venetian hospitality.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Wandering Through Venetian Canals

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Rosa Salva

Enjoy a delightful pastry and espresso in this historic pastry shop.
Walk to the Accademia Gallery.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Accademia Gallery

Explore the vast collection of art from the Venetian Renaissance.
Walk to Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Discover modern art housed in the former home of the famed collector.
Walk to the Gallerie dell'Accademia.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Al Bacco

Dig into traditional Venetian dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Stroll towards the Jewish Ghetto.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Walk in the Jewish Ghetto

Absorb the unique history of one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe.
Head to dinner location.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Ridotto

Enjoy a modern twist on Venetian cuisine in this elegant restaurant.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: The Serenity of Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy breakfast overlooking the serene lake with fresh pastry and coffee.
Take a train to Varenna.
EUR10, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Varenna

Stroll the charming streets and beautiful lakeside paths of this quaint village.
Take a ferry to Bellagio.
EUR10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Alle Darsene di Loppia

Savour fish specialties as you enjoy stunning views of the lake.
Take a ferry to Menaggio.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Menaggio

Explore the picturesque streets of Menaggio, known for its beautiful gardens.
Take a ferry back to Varenna.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax by the lake

Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Como as you take in the stunning scenery.
Take the ferry back to Varenna.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Evening Stroll by the Lake

Take a leisurely walk along the lake to soak in the beautiful sunset.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Villa Cipressi

Dine in an enchanting lakeside restaurant, famed for its elegant Italian cuisine.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Ending in Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Cova

Indulge in a delightful breakfast featuring traditional pastries in a vibrant café.
Take a train to Milan.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Admire the magnificent cathedral, one of the world's largest Gothic churches.
Walk to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Delight in a traditional panzerotto, an Italian pastry filled with various fillings on the go.
Walk to Castello Sforzesco.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Explore this historic fortress and its lovely surrounding park.
Walk to dinner location.
EUR10, 2 hours

3:30PM

Free time for shopping at Via Montenapoleone

Browse the upscale shops in Milan's famous fashion district.
Walk to dinner location.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Savour classic Milanese dishes in a quaint setting to conclude your Italian journey.
Walk back to accommodation.
EUR20, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability