14-Day Shoestring Budget Rail Trip through Italy

Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Rome, Italy

10:00AM

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive in Rome and check into a budget-friendly hostel like 'Generator Rome'.
Take the Leonardo Express train from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station, then walk to the hostel.
EUR 20, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Ruggero

Enjoy classic Roman pasta dishes at this budget-friendly local eatery.
Walk 15 minutes from the hostel.
EUR 12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit The Colosseum

Explore the historic Colosseum and imagine the grandeur of ancient Rome.
Take Metro Line B from Termini to Colosseo.
EUR 18, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll around the Roman Forum

Wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum, a centre of politics and culture.
Entrance is included with Colosseum ticket.
Included in Colosseum Ticket, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Francesco

Savour authentic Roman pizza at this popular yet affordable restaurant.
Walk from the Forum to the restaurant in 10 minutes.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Explore Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Start the day with a delicious pastry and cappuccino in this local café.
Walk 20 minutes from the hostel.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Vatican City

Discover the magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
Take Metro Line A from Termini to Ottaviano.
EUR 30, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Il Pomodoro

Enjoy a hearty Margherita pizza at this budget-friendly spot near the Vatican.
Walk 10 minutes from the Vatican.
EUR 10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Pantheon

Marvel at the architectural wonder of the Pantheon, a must-see in Rome.
Walk 20 minutes from the pizzeria.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Trekking through Trastevere

Wander through the charming streets of Trastevere and visit Santa Maria in Trastevere.
Walk 15 minutes from the Pantheon.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Da Zi Umberto

Experience a taste of traditional Roman food in this local beloved eatery.
Walk 10 minutes from Trastevere.
EUR 12, 1 hour
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Day 3: Travel to Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hostel before heading to Florence.
Enjoy the hostel breakfast included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Florence

Take the train to Florence, enjoying scenic views along the way.
Catch a direct train from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Your Hostel

Arrive and check into a budget-friendly hostel like 'Plus Florence'.
Hostel is located near the train station.
EUR 25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Savour hearty Tuscan cuisine in this local favourite, known for its affordability.
Walk 15 minutes from the hostel.
EUR 12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Explore the world-renowned art collection at the Uffizi Gallery.
Walk 15 minutes from the restaurant.
EUR 20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through the Piazza della Signoria

Take in the beautiful sculptures and architecture at this historic square.
Walk 10 minutes from Uffizi.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Il Pizzaiuolo

Enjoy a delicious pizza at this local pizzeria with a lively atmosphere.
Walk 10 minutes from the Piazza.
EUR 10, 1 hour
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Day 4: Explore Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hostel to energise your day.
Included in hostel stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Florence Cathedral

Climb the dome for breathtaking views of the city.
Walk 15 minutes from the hostel.
EUR 18, 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk to Ponte Vecchio

Enjoy the views on your 10-minute stroll to the iconic bridge.
Walking
Free, 20 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at All'Antico Vinaio

Sample some of the best sandwiches in Florence for a great price.
Walk 5 minutes from the bridge.
EUR 8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo's David and other masterpieces at this famous museum.
Walk 15 minutes from the restaurant.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Boboli Gardens

Unwind in this beautiful garden, enjoying nature and art.
Walk 20 minutes from the gallery.
EUR 10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Experience traditional Florentine dishes in a rustic setting.
Walk 20 minutes back towards the hostel.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 5: Day Trip to Pisa

Pisa, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Fuel up at the hostel with a simple yet effective breakfast.
Included in hostel stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Train to Pisa

Take a short train ride to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.
Catch a train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Pisa Centrale.
EUR 8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Marvel at this iconic architectural marvel and snap some photos.
Walk 20 minutes from the station.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery

Explore these beautiful buildings set in the same square as the Tower.
Located next to the Leaning Tower.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria I Santi

Enjoy traditional Tuscan dishes in this quaint restaurant.
Walk back towards the train station, 20 minutes away.
EUR 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Florence

Head back to Florence for the evening.
Catch a return train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
EUR 8, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria 4 Leoni

Feast on hearty Tuscan pasta for your evening meal.
Walk 10 minutes from the train station.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 6: Journey to Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Grab a quick bite before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Included in hostel stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Cinque Terre

Catch a train to the stunning Cinque Terre region, home to colourful coastal villages.
Travel from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to La Spezia, then transfer to a train towards Monterosso.
EUR 15, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in to Your Accommodation

Find a budget-friendly accommodation in Monterosso, like a family-run B&B.
Located within walking distance from the train station.
EUR 30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Ely

Savour fresh seafood or local pizza at this affordable eatery.
Located on the beach, a short walk from your accommodation.
EUR 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Monterosso Beach

Relax on the beach or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea.
A stroll from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Hiking to Vernazza

Take the scenic trail to Vernazza for stunning views of the coastline.
Follow trail signs towards Vernazza.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Billy

Enjoy fresh pasta or seafood in the charming village of Vernazza.
Eat in Vernazza before returning to Monterosso.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 7: Explore the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your B&B

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your B&B.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Vernazza

Wander the colourful streets of Vernazza and enjoy its charm.
Take the train to Vernazza.
EUR 5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Hike to Corniglia

Enjoy breathtaking coastal views on your hike to Corniglia.
Follow trail signs towards Corniglia.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Il Gabbiano

Stop for a well-deserved lunch at this beachside restaurant in Corniglia.
A short walk from the main square.
EUR 15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Corniglia

Take some time to explore this charming village and its scenic vistas.
Catch a local train back to Monterosso.
EUR 5, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Portico

Relish a delicious dinner overlooking the cliffs in Monterosso.
Walking distance to the restaurant.
EUR 18, 1 hour
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Day 8: Travel to Milan

Milan, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your B&B

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Milan.
Included in the B&B.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Milan

Depart Cinque Terre for Milan with scenic views on the way.
Train from Monterosso to Milano Centrale.
EUR 20, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Your Hostel

Settle into a budget hostel like 'Ostello Bello' in Milan.
Walking distance from the train station.
EUR 25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Grab a quick and unique lunch featuring fresh made panzerotti.
Walk 15 minutes from your hostel.
EUR 6, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Duomo di Milano

Visit Milan's iconic cathedral and climb to the rooftop for panoramic views.
Walking distance from the lunch spot.
EUR 15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this historic shopping gallery.
A short walk from the Duomo.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Rocco

Sample mouth-watering Italian dishes in this cosy restaurant.
Walking distance from Galleria.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 9: Discover Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Enjoy a filling breakfast at your hostel.
Included in the hostel stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Sforzesco Castle

Explore the historic castle and its museums.
Take a 30-minute walk from the hostel.
EUR 10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Panzerotti Luini

Indulge in another tasty panzerotto at this famous spot.
Walk back to Luini.
EUR 6, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

Appreciate art at one of Milan's main art galleries.
Walk 15 minutes from lunch.
EUR 12, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Navigli District

Stroll along the picturesque canals of the Navigli, full of life and charm.
Take the Metro from Duomo to Porta Genova.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria della Storia

Savour traditional Milanese cuisine in this inviting osteria.
A short walk through Navigli.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 10: Travel to Venice

Venice, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Enjoy breakfast at your hostel before heading to Venice.
Included in the stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Venice

Catch a train traveling to the enchanting canals of Venice.
Take the train from Milano Centrale to Venezia Santa Lucia.
EUR 20, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Your Hostel

Settle into a budget hotel or hostel in Venice, like 'Generator Venice'.
Located near the station.
EUR 30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Osteria Alla Bifora

Indulge in hearty Venetian dishes without breaking the bank.
Walking distance from the hostel.
EUR 12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Gondola Ride

Experience the magic of Venice on a classic gondola ride through canals.
Head to the nearest gondola station.
EUR 80 (shares if possible), 30 minutes

3:00PM

Stroll around Piazza San Marco

Visit the iconic square and admire St. Mark's Basilica.
Walking around the city.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Frisco

Savour Venetian seafood dishes at this moderate eatery.
Walk to the restaurant from the square.
EUR 20, 1 hour
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Day 11: Explore Venice

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Venetian Arsenal

Explore the historic shipyard and its museums.
Take a Vaporetto to the area.
EUR 10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Cantina Do Spade

Try Venetian small plates, known as cicchetti, at this local bar.
Catch the Vaporetto back to Rialto.
EUR 15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Rialto Market

Visit one of the oldest markets in Venice, full of fresh produce and fish.
Walking distance from the lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Admire modern art in this lovely museum overlooking the Grand Canal.
15-minute walk from the market.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Antica Sacrestia

Savour delicious pasta dishes in this quaint eatery.
Walk back towards your hostel.
EUR 18, 1 hour
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Day 12: Travel to Bologna

Bologna, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Bologna.
Included in the stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Bologna

Embark on a train journey to the food capital of Italy, Bologna.
Train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Bologna Centrale.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Check-in at Your Hostel

Arrive and check into a hostel like 'Archiginnasio' in central Bologna.
Walking distance from the station.
EUR 25, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Gianni

Relish local Bolognese pasta dishes at this popular trattoria.
Walk 15 minutes from the hostel.
EUR 12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Two Towers

Climb the Asinelli Tower for amazing city views.
Walk 20 minutes from the restaurant.
EUR 5, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Piazza Maggiore

Wander around and take pictures in the main square of Bologna.
A short walk from the towers.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria dell'Orsa

Enjoy authentic pasta at one of Bologna's best eateries.
A 10-minute walk from the square.
EUR 15, 1 hour
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Day 13: Visit Naples

Naples, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Savour breakfast at your hostel before heading to Naples.
Included in hostel stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Naples

Ride to Naples, known for its pizza and vibrant street life.
Train from Bologna Centrale to Napoli Centrale.
EUR 16, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Your Hostel

Check into a budget hostel in the heart of Naples.
Walking distance from the train station.
EUR 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Michele

Taste the world-famous pizza at this historic pizzeria.
A short walk from the hostel.
EUR 10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Discover extraordinary artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Take a short metro ride.
EUR 15, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Naples' Historic Centre

Wander through one of the most vibrant historic districts in Europe.
Walking distance from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Da Carmela

Enjoy some local dishes in this famous eatery.
Walk to the restaurant from your location.
EUR 12, 1 hour
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Day 14: Day Trip to Capri

Capri, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hostel

Have a hearty breakfast in preparation for your trip to Capri.
Included in the hostel stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Ferry to Capri

Catch a ferry from Naples to the stunning island of Capri.
Ferry terminal is a short walk from the hostel.
EUR 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Capri's Natural Beauty

Discover the beauty of the island, including the famous Blue Grotto.
Take a local bus or rent a scooter to explore.
EUR 10, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Da Giorgio

Enjoy lunch with breathtaking views of the coastline.
Close to the main square of Capri.
EUR 15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hike up to Monte Solaro

Take a rewarding hike to the highest point of the island for stunning views.
Follow signs to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return Ferry to Naples

Catch the ferry back to Naples after a day of adventure.
Return to the ferry terminal.
EUR 20, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Nennella

End your trip with a celebratory dinner in Naples at this lively locale.
Easily reachable from the ferry terminal.
EUR 12, 1 hour
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