7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Italy

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Colosseum Visit

Kickstart your trip by exploring the iconic Colosseum's grandeur and learning about Rome's ancient gladiators.
Walk from your hostel or take bus number 75.
EUR12, 2 hours

10:30AM

Roman Forum

Stroll through the Roman Forum, where the ruins whisper tales of history amidst the bustling city.
Walk a few minutes from the Colosseum.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria da Baffetto

Savor some budget-friendly, delicious Roman pizza at this local favorite.
Take tram number 8 to the nearby area.
EUR8, 1 hour

2:30PM

St. Peter’s Basilica

Visit the breathtaking St. Peter's Basilica for a memorable glimpse of the Vatican's artistry.
Use metro line A from Spagna to Ottaviano.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Piazza Navona

Relax in this stunning piazza and appreciate the beautiful fountains, especially Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain.
Walk 10 minutes from the Basilica.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

Enjoy authentic Roman pasta dishes without breaking the bank at this cozy trattoria.
Walk back to the area or take a bus.
EUR15, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Vatican Museums

Explore an extensive collection of art and history at the Vatican Museums, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel.
Take metro line A to Ottaviano.
EUR17, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercato di Testaccio

Experience local flavors at the bustling market, tasting fresh produce and traditional Roman street food.
Take bus 3 or 5 to Testaccio.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Borghese Gallery

Marvel at the stunning artworks by masters such as Caravaggio and Raphael in the splendid setting of this villa.
Walk to the park and enter the Borghese Gardens.
EUR13, 2 hours

4:00PM

Pincio Terrace

Head to Pincio Terrace for a spectacular view of the city as you watch the sun set over Rome.
Walk through the gardens to reach the terrace.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria La Montecarlo

Feast on more pizza in this popular local spot well-known for its welcoming atmosphere.
Walk to the restaurant, takes about 20 minutes.
EUR13, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and Architecture

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Train to Florence

Head to the train station and catch an early train to Florence to maximize your sightseeing.
Walk to Stazione Termini.
EUR32, 2 hours including transfer

10:00AM

Uffizi Gallery

Admire one of the most famous art museums in the world, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli.
Walk 10 minutes from the train station.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at All'Antico Vinaio

Grab a delicious and budget-friendly sandwich from this famous spot, known for its fresh ingredients.
Walk 5 minutes to the restaurant.
EUR6, 1 hour

2:30PM

Ponte Vecchio

Stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, lined with shops and offering scenic views of the river.
Walk 10 minutes from lunch.
Free, 30 minutes

3:15PM

Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Visit the magnificent cathedral and climb to the top for breathtaking views of Florence.
Walk to Duomo, about 15 minutes.
EUR18, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Treat yourself to traditional Tuscan dishes in this charming and intimate setting.
Walk 10 minutes to the restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Renaissance Revelations

Florence, Italy

9:00AM

Accademia Gallery

Home to the renowned statue of David by Michelangelo, spend your morning soaking in Renaissance art's wonder.
Walk 15 minutes from your accommodation.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boboli Gardens

Wander through the tranquil Boboli Gardens, a beautiful escape filled with sculptures and fountains.
Walk 20 minutes to get there.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Indulge in a classic Tuscan meal full of flavor at this local eatery favored by both locals and tourists.
20-minute walk back toward the city center.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Mercato Centrale

Explore the vibrant market filled with fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies - perfect for souvenir shopping.
Walk 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

San Miniato al Monte

For the best panoramic views of Florence, hike up to this stunning abbey, especially beautiful at sunset.
Public bus 12 or walk about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Il Carrozzone

Relax while enjoying comforting Italian dishes at this atmospheric, budget-friendly restaurant.
Take bus back or walk down.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: City of Canals

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Train to Venice

Take an early morning train to Venice, ensuring you have plenty of time to explore this unique city.
Walk to the station.
EUR25, 2 hours including transfer

10:00AM

St. Mark’s Basilica

Marvel at the stunning architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica and immerse yourself in its rich history.
Walk to Piazzo di San Marco.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Doge's Palace

Explore the richly decorated Doge’s Palace to understand Venice's history and power.
Walk next door.
EUR25, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Alla Madonna

Savor delicious seafood dishes at this hastily local restaurant popular with Venetians.
Walk about 10 minutes from the palace.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Rialto Bridge

Cross the famous Rialto Bridge and enjoy the lively atmosphere while taking in the view of the Grand Canal.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Fiore

Enjoy a traditional Venetian meal at this charming eatery, known for its authentic dishes.
Walk back through the alleyways.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Venetian Dreams

Venice, Italy

9:00AM

Gondola Ride

Experience Venice from its serene canals with a shared gondola ride, a must-do for any visitor.
Head toward the nearest gondola station.
EUR25, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Murano

Catch a vaporetto (water bus) to Murano, famous for its glass-making artisans and beautiful scenery.
Buy a vaporetto ticket at the station.
EUR15 round trip, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Busa alla Torre

Enjoy fresh seafood, a specialty of Murano, at this highly-rated bistro.
Walk to the restaurant from the vaporetto stop.
EUR15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Burano

Hop on a vaporetto to the colorful island of Burano, renowned for its lace-making and charming houses.
Vaporetto from Murano to Burano, 30 min ride.
EUR10 round trip, 4 hours including lunch

8:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Al Teatro

Wind down your day with pizza or pasta at this lively restaurant, perfect for families.
Take vaporetto back to Venice and walk to the restaurant.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Fashion Capital

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Train to Milan

Hop on an early train from Venice to Milan, allowing you to enjoy the best of Italy's fashion capital.
Walk to the train station.
EUR20, 2 hours including transfer

10:00AM

Duomo di Milano

Marvel at the iconic cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and take in the stunning rooftop views.
Walk to the Duomo from the station.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini’s Panzerotti

Grab a tasty snack at the local favorite, known for its delicious stuffed pastries.
Walk 5 minutes.
EUR4, 1 hour

1:00PM

Castello Sforzesco

Explore the fascinating history and beautiful park surrounding Castello Sforzesco.
Walk 15 minutes from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Brera Art Gallery

Discover an extensive collection of Italian masterpieces housed in a charming historic building.
Walk 15 minutes to the gallery.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Spontini

End your Italian adventure with a slice of famous Milanese pizza in a casual setting.
Take the metro or walk depending on your location.
EUR10, 1 hour
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