7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Italy

Day 1: Explore Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Bar

Start your day with an Italian cappuccino and cornetto at Bar Sant'Eustachio, a local favorite for authentic Italian breakfast.
Just walk to the nearest subway station.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Colosseum

Skip the ticket lines with the Rome Pass and take in the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture.
Take Metro Line B to Colosseo station.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Baffetto

Indulge in some of Rome's best pizza with their classic Margherita made with fresh ingredients.
Walk from the Colosseum, approximately 20 minutes.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Roman Forum

Wander through this sprawling site where ancient Romans once gathered and discussed life.
Walk from lunch, approximately 10 minutes.
Included in Colosseum ticket, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through Trastevere

Explore the vibrant streets of this charming neighborhood filled with narrow lanes and local shops.
Take bus 75 from Colosseum to Trastevere.
EUR3, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tonnarello

Enjoy an affordable yet delicious pasta meal at Tonnarello, known for its homemade dishes.
Walk from Trastevere, about 10 minutes.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Highlights

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio

Grab a quick breakfast of fresh baked goods and coffee at Panificio, known for its breads.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Vatican Museums

Experience the stunning art and history while marveling at the Sistine Chapel; purchase advanced tickets to skip the line.
Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano.
EUR17, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Vacca M'briaca

Enjoy fresh sandwiches and local dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a budget lunch.
Walk 10 minutes from the Vatican.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Admire the stunning architecture of one of the largest churches in the world, entry is free.
Walk to St. Peter’s, about 5 minutes.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Enjoy a gelato at Giolitti

Cool down with a delicious gelato from one of Rome's oldest gelaterias.
A 15-minute walk from St. Peter's Basilica.
EUR3, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Visit the Pantheon

Step inside this ancient temple and admire its impressive dome, entry is free.
Walk from Giolitti, about 20 minutes.
EUR0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Treat yourself to handmade pasta dishes at this popular but budget-friendly restaurant.
Walk approximately 20 minutes from the Pantheon.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and History

Florence, Italy

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Café Gilli

Fuel up for the day with an Italian breakfast of pastries and coffee at this historic café.
Walk to Termini Station for your train to Florence.
EUR5, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Florence

Take the direct train from Rome to Florence, enjoying the picturesque Italian countryside.
Train from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Explore the world-class art collection, from Botticelli to Michelangelo; reserve a ticket to avoid long waits.
Walk from the train station, about 10 minutes.
EUR20, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at All' Antico Vinaio

Savor delicious and affordable panini or schiacchiata that will keep you going all afternoon.
A short 5-minute walk from Uffizi.
EUR7, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Ponte Vecchio

Stroll across this iconic bridge, lined with artisan shops, and take in the stunning views of the Arno River.
Walk from lunch to the bridge, about 10 minutes.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

Don't miss the chance to see Michelangelo's David in person; again, reserving tickets in advance is wise.
Walk about 15 minutes from the Ponte Vecchio.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Il Bargello

End your day enjoying Tuscan cuisine with a range of flavorful dishes at this budget-friendly restaurant.
A 10-minute walk from Accademia Gallery.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Florence's Charm

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Carraia

Start your day with a delightful pastry and coffee near the river at this charming café.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Climb the Duomo

Ascend the iconic dome of the cathedral for breathtaking views of Florence; purchase your tickets online to save time.
A short 10-minute walk from breakfast.
EUR20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax in Boboli Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through these beautiful gardens and enjoy a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Walk 15 minutes from the Duomo.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Discover a variety of affordable local food options and seating in this lively market hall.
Walk back to the city center, about 15 minutes.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Oltrarno District

Wander through this artisan neighborhood filled with unique shops and local craft workshops.
Walk across the Ponte Vecchio.
EUR0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Gelato from Gelateria Santa Trinita

Stop for a refreshing gelato at this popular gelateria known for its rich flavors.
Walk from Oltrarno, about 15 minutes.
EUR3, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria 4 Leoni

Experience a cozy dinner with traditional Tuscan dishes at this well-reviewed yet affordable eatery.
Walk back to the city center, about 10 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Enchanting Venice

Venice, Italy

7:00AM

Quick Breakfast at Pasticceria Dal Mas

Enjoy fresh pastries and an espresso from this local bakery before hopping on a train to Venice.
Walk to the train station.
EUR4, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Venice

Catch a morning train and enjoy the scenic ride across the picturesque landscape.
Train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Venezia Santa Lucia.
EUR20, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore St. Mark's Basilica

Marvel at the stunning mosaics and architecture of this iconic cathedral, entrance is free.
Walk about 10 minutes from the train station.
EUR0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Wander Piazza San Marco

Experience the heart of Venice as you wander around the vibrant square, soaking in the atmosphere.
Just steps from St. Mark's.
EUR0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Alla Madonna

Savor a delicious seafood meal at this budget-friendly traditional Venetian restaurant.
A quick 5-minute walk from Piazza San Marco.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Gondola Ride (Optional)

For a true Venetian experience, opt for a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, which is a splurge but memorable.
Follow signs to gondola station from lunch.
EUR80 (for two people), 30 minutes

3:30PM

Visit the Rialto Market

Explore the bustling market and sample local produce and snacks while experiencing the local culture.
Take the Vaporetto along the Grand Canal to Rialto.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero

End your day with an affordable yet delightful meal at this well-liked trattoria in Burano.
Take a Vaporetto to Burano, approximately 30 minutes.
EUR15, 2 hours
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Day 6: Venice Adventures

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Lavena

Start your day with a coffee and pastry at this charming café in St. Mark’s Square.
Walk from your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Doge's Palace

Explore the historic seat of Venetian power; make sure to book a ticket online for quicker entry.
Walk from breakfast, about 10 minutes.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Rialto Bridge and Shopping

Stroll across the famous Rialto Bridge and browse the shops selling everything from souvenirs to Murano glass.
Walk approximately 10 minutes to the bridge from Doge's Palace.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Cantina Do Spade

Enjoy affordable cicchetti (small plates) in a traditional Venetian setting at this lively tavern.
Walk from Rialto Bridge to lunch, about 5 minutes.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Murano and Burano Islands

Take a Vaporetto to the islands, famous for glassmaking and colorful houses.
Catch the Vaporetto from the Rialto area.
EUR20 (round trip), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ristoranti Alla Madonna

Dine on delicious local seafood at this well-loved restaurant known for its well-prepared dishes.
Take the Vaporetto back to the main island.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Milan

Milan, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Panzerotti Luini

Enjoy a quick yet tasty breakfast of savory panzerotti, a local specialty, famous among locals.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
EUR4, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore the Duomo di Milano

Visit Milan's stunning cathedral and, if you're feeling adventurous, climb to the rooftop for an incredible view.
Walk from breakfast, about 10 minutes.
EUR10 (cathedral entry), EUR15 (rooftop), 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through Milan's historic shopping gallery and enjoy its exquisite architecture.
Just a short walk from the Duomo.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Luini

Refuel with a delicious panzerotti at this eatery renowned for its tasty fillings.
Just a short walk from the Galleria.
EUR5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Sforza Castle

Explore the historic castle grounds and visit the museums within, walking through beautiful gardens.
Take tram 1 from Duomo to Castello.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

End your trip with a farewell dinner of traditional Milanese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Walk back to the central area, about 20 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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