8-Day Adventure in Italy on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pastificio Guerra

Start your day with a taste of Italy at this renowned pasta joint, savoring a delicious plate of cacio e pepe for just a few euros.
Walking, 10-minute stroll
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Colosseum

Dive into ancient history as you step inside the iconic Colosseum; consider free audio-guide apps for an insightful experience.
Walk or take Metro Line B to Colosseo
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria da Baffetto

Indulge in some of Rome's best thin-crust pizza, eyeing the locals as they devour their meals.
25-minute walk from Colosseum
EUR8, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Vatican City

Wander through St. Peter's Basilica and take a stroll around St. Peter's Square.
15-minute walk from lunch
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Toss a coin at Trevi Fountain

Join the crowds at the stunning Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to Rome by tossing a coin over your left shoulder.
30-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Conclude your day with a traditional Roman meal featuring homemade pasta.
20-minute walk
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bar San Calisto

Grab an espresso and cornetto at this local bar for an authentic Roman breakfast experience.
10-minute walk
EUR3, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Pantheon

Marvel at the architectural wonder of the Pantheon, one of the most well-preserved monuments in Rome.
15-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Piazza Navona

Roam around the beautiful square showcasing Bernini's stunning fountains and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
10-minute walk
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Forno Campo de' Fiori

Grab a slice of Roman-style pizza or a fresh focaccia at the bustling market area.
5-minute walk
EUR6, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Borghese Gallery

Immerse yourself in art as you admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini (reserve free entrance in advance).
20-minute walk
Free with reservation, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Evening Stroll at the Spanish Steps

Take a leisurely stroll down the famous Spanish Steps, perfect for people-watching as you soak in the ambiance.
15-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Stasera

Savor delicious pizza at this cozy eatery popular among locals, perfect for a casual evening.
20-minute walk
EUR10, 1 hour
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Day 3: Journey to Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bakery of Rome

Before heading off, enjoy a pastry at a nearby bakery known for its superb cornetti.
5-minute walk
EUR3, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Train to Florence

Catch a regional train to Florence, enjoying the scenic views en route.
Metro to Termini Train Station, 1 hour
EUR20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Florence Cathedral

Step inside Florence's iconic cathedral and admire its breathtaking dome.
Walking from Train Station, 15-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Relish a traditional Tuscan lunch in a local eatery known for its hearty ribollita soup and pastas.
5-minute walk
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

See Michelangelo's David

Visit the Accademia Gallery to see the world-renowned statue of David up close.
10-minute walk
EUR12, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Ponte Vecchio Stroll

Take a leisurely walk across the famous Ponte Vecchio, soaking in the views of the river.
15-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Enjoy a simple yet exquisite Tuscan dinner in this local favorite restaurant.
10-minute walk
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: More of Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Caffè Gilli

Start your morning with a delectable pastry and cappuccino at this historic café.
10-minute walk
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Uffizi Gallery

Admire the stunning collection of Renaissance artwork, from Botticelli to Da Vinci; book a free time slot in advance.
15-minute walk
Free with reservation, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Stroll through Boboli Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the beautiful gardens, a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
15-minute walk
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Grab a budget-friendly yet delicious lunch sampling local specialties and fresh produce from the market stalls.
10-minute walk
EUR8, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

View from Piazzale Michelangelo

Climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo for a panoramic view of Florence, perfect for stunning photographs.
30-minute uphill walk or bus
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at ZaZa

Delight in traditional Italian pizzas and pastas in a relaxed ambiance, a place visited by many travelers.
15-minute walk
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Venice Awaits

Venice, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Grab a quick pastry and coffee from a local café before your journey to Venice.
5-minute walk
EUR3, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Train to Venice

Depart from Florence to Venice, enjoying the picturesque countryside along the way.
Metro to Santa Maria Novella Station, 1 hour
EUR20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Grand Canal Exploration

Take a vaporetto (water bus) ride along the Grand Canal, soaking in the stunning architecture.
From the station, walk to the RIalto Vaporetto stop
EUR7.50, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Osteria alla Madonna

Savor seafood pasta in this bustling restaurant located near the Rialto Bridge.
10-minute walk
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit St. Mark's Square

Stroll through Piazza San Marco, home to the iconic basilica and famous Campanile.
15-minute walk
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore the Doge's Palace

Wander through the opulent rooms and learn about the history of the Venetian Republic.
5-minute walk
EUR25, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Enjoy a fantastic meal full of traditional Venetian dishes in a charming, cozy atmosphere.
20-minute walk
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Diving Deeper into Venice

Venice, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries at a local bakery before starting the day.
5-minute walk
EUR2, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Visit the Rialto Market

Experience local life at this vibrant market, perfect for picking up delicious snacks.
10-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Gondola Ride

Treat yourself to a traditional gondola ride through the canals (cost-effective if shared with others).
Walk to any gondola station
EUR20 per person, 30 minutes

12:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria Vineria All’Amarone

Enjoy delicious cicchetti (Venetian tapas) in this simple yet charming spot.
20-minute walk
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Explore this modern art museum located on the Grand Canal, showcasing an incredible collection.
15-minute walk
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Free Time in Dorsoduro District

Roam the charming streets of Dorsoduro and discover hidden gems; don't miss the picturesque canals.
Walking around
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Algiubagio

Enjoy delightful seafood dishes whilst enjoying the view of the Venetian lagoon.
15-minute walk
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Venice to Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria

Grab a pastry and cappuccino at a local pasticceria before departing for Milan.
5-minute walk
EUR3, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Train to Milan

Take a train from Venice to Milan, excited about the upcoming city experience.
25-minute walk to Train Station
EUR30, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Admire the stunning architecture of Milan's iconic cathedral, and don't forget to go up to the rooftop for panoramic views.
Walk from the station, 15-minute walk
EUR15, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Savor a traditional panzerotto (fried pastry) from this famous street food joint.
5-minute walk
EUR5, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Explore this historic shopping gallery and marvel at its architecture, an excellent photo spot.
1-minute walk
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Sforza Castle

Visit the historic castle, walk around its grounds, or visit one of its many museums.
20-minute walk
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Enjoy an authentic Milanese meal in a welcoming restaurant favored by locals.
10-minute walk
EUR15, 2 hours
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Day 8: Last Day in Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at a Local Bar

Indulge in an Italian breakfast of espresso and pastry at a nearby café.
5-minute walk
EUR3, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Visit The Last Supper

Admire Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece; book tickets in advance to ensure entry.
20-minute walk
EUR15, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Navigli District

Stroll along the picturesque canals of the Navigli district and enjoy the artsy boutiques.
30-minute walk
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria dei Nobili

Savor a genuine Italian meal in a charming setting, filled with local flavors.
15-minute walk
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shopping in Milan

Take a leisurely afternoon shopping in Milan's famous boutiques and designer stores.
Walking distance from lunch
VARY, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Al Fresco

Wrap up your Italy adventure with dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.
10-minute walk
EUR25, 2 hours
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