14-Day Shoestring Budget Adventure in Italy

Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Rome, Italy

09:00AM

Explore the Colosseum

Start your Italian journey at the iconic Colosseum, which provides a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s ancient history.
Take Metro Line B to the Colosseo station.
EUR 18, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Pizzeria Ai Marmi

Indulge in a classic Roman pizza at this famous eatery known for its thin crust and authentic flavours.
Walk 20 minutes from the Colosseum.
EUR 10, 1 hour

01:00PM

Visit the Roman Forum

Continue your exploration at the Roman Forum, witnessing the ruins that were the heart of ancient Rome.
Walking distance from lunch.
Included in Colosseum ticket, 2 hours

03:30PM

Stroll to the Trevi Fountain

Make your way to the beautiful Trevi Fountain, tossing a coin over your shoulder to guarantee a return to Rome.
Walk 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

05:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo

Savour traditional Roman cuisine, focusing on fresh ingredients and homemade pasta at this beloved local trattoria.
Walk 25 minutes.
EUR 15, 2 hours
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Day 2: Discover Vatican City

Rome, Italy

08:00AM

Breakfast at Bar San Calisto

Start your day with a quick coffee and pastry in this vibrant neighbourhood bar.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 5, 30 minutes

09:00AM

Explore the Vatican Museums

Head to the Vatican Museums to marvel at the art collection, including the stunning Sistine Chapel.
Take bus number 87 from San Calisto.
EUR 17, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Forno Campo de' Fiori

Grab a slice of pizza bianca or some fresh pastries from this popular bakery.
Walk 20 minutes back.
EUR 8, 1 hour

02:00PM

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Explore the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and climb to the dome for breathtaking views.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free, EUR 10 to climb dome, 2 hours

05:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Da Michele

Enjoy classic Neapolitan pizza in one of Rome's oldest pizzerias.
Take Metro Line A to Termini and then Line B.
EUR 12, 2 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Florence

Florence, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Florence

Take the train from Rome to Florence, enjoying scenic views of the Italian countryside.
Train from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Florence Cathedral

Check out the breathtaking Duomo and Giotto's Campanile upon arrival in Florence.
Walk 10 minutes from the station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Explore the vibrant market and try authentic Tuscan sandwiches and local varieties.
Walking distance.
EUR 10, 1 hour

01:30PM

Admire the Uffizi Gallery

Spend your afternoon admiring timeless artworks at the celebrated Uffizi Gallery.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 20, 2 hours

04:00PM

Stroll along the Arno River

Take a relaxing walk along the banks of the river Arno, enjoying the picturesque views.
Walk for 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

06:00PM

Dinner at Osteria All’Antico Vinaio

Don’t miss a delicious sandwich at this local favourite, known for its fresh ingredients.
Walk 10 minutes.
EUR 8, 1 hour
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Day 4: Florence and Beyond

Florence, Italy

08:00AM

Breakfast at Antico Caffè Spinnato

Enjoy a delightful Italian breakfast of pastries and coffee in this quaint café.
Walk 10 minutes.
EUR 5, 30 minutes

09:00AM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo's world-famous David statue, a must-see while in Florence.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Boboli Gardens

Spend time wandering through the beautiful Boboli Gardens for stunning views of the city.
Walk 20 minutes.
EUR 10, 2 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Relish home-cooked Tuscan dishes at this charming trattoria, popular among locals.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 12, 1 hour

03:00PM

Visit Ponte Vecchio

Head over to the Ponte Vecchio, famous for its jewelry shops and scenic views.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

05:00PM

Dinner at La Ménagère

Enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Tuscan cuisine in a trendy atmosphere.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 15, 2 hours
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Day 5: Day Trip to Pisa

Pisa, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Pisa

Take an early train to Pisa to visit the renowned Leaning Tower.
Train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Pisa Centrale.
EUR 10, 1 hour

09:30AM

Climb the Leaning Tower

Experience the Leaning Tower of Pisa and take in amazing views from the top.
Walk 15 minutes from the station.
EUR 20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Piazza dei Miracoli

Spend time exploring the splendid architecture of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walking distance from the tower.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Osteria De' Peccatori

Savour a hearty meal featuring Tuscan delicacies just steps from the tower.
Walk 10 minutes.
EUR 12, 1 hour

02:00PM

Visit the Cathedral of Pisa

Explore the architectural beauty of the magnificent Cathedral nearby.
Walk 5 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

04:00PM

Return to Florence

Catch the train back to Florence after a fulfilling day.
Train from Pisa Centrale.
EUR 10, 1 hour

06:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Sabatino

Enjoy a comforting meal at this quaint trattoria with homemade pastas.
Walk from the station.
EUR 14, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Off to Venice

Venice, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Venice

Take a train to Venice, where the Grand Canal awaits your discovery.
Train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Venezia Santa Lucia.
EUR 30, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore St. Mark's Square

Marvel at the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the beautiful square filled with history.
Walking distance from the station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti

Try delicious seafood and local wines in this artistic eatery in Venice.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 15, 1 hour

02:00PM

Visit the Doge’s Palace

Explore the opulent Doge's Palace and learn about Venetian history.
Walk 10 minutes.
EUR 20, 2 hours

04:30PM

Take a Vaporetto Ride

Experience the city from the water with a ride on a Vaporetto along the Grand Canal.
Catch it from the nearest stop.
EUR 7, 30 minutes

06:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Romano

Taste authentic dishes in a casual setting, ending your day with a memorable meal.
Walk from the Vaporetto stop.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Leisurely Venice

Venice, Italy

08:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Marchini

Enjoy delightful pastries and coffee to start your day in Venice.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 5, 30 minutes

09:30AM

Visit Rialto Market

Delight in the vibrant atmosphere of the market with fresh produce and local delicacies.
Walking distance.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Take a Gondola Ride

Experience a classic Venetian gondola ride for a unique perspective of the canals.
Catch a gondola from a nearby stand.
EUR 80 per gondola (share with others), 30 minutes

01:00PM

Lunch at Baccalà Reale

Savour a delicious fish dish at this casual spot amongst the locals.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 10, 1 hour

03:00PM

Explore Murano

Consider taking a Vaporetto to Murano to see the famous glass-making factories.
Take the Vaporetto from Ferrovia.
EUR 15 round trip., 3 hours

07:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Alla Madonna

Experience a traditional Venetian meal at a popular local eatery with seafood and pastas.
Return by Vaporetto.
EUR 18, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Off to Bologna

Bologna, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Bologna

Catch a morning train to Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy.
Train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Bologna Centrale.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Piazza Maggiore

Explore Pizza Maggiore and the stunning Basilica of San Petronio in the vibrant centre of Bologna.
Walking distance.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Asinelli Tower

Climb the famous tower for panoramic views of the beautiful city.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 5, 1 hour

01:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Gianni

Savour delicious homemade pasta in this charming trattoria.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 12, 1 hour

02:30PM

Visit the University of Bologna

Discover the world’s oldest university and its significant architecture.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

04:00PM

Take a Food Tour

Join a budget walking food tour to taste traditional Bolognese dishes.
Meet at Piazza Maggiore.
EUR 35, 2 hours

06:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Il Fiasco

Finish your day with traditional Bolognese meals served in a cosy setting.
Walk from the tour's finishing point.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Exploration of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

08:30AM

Travel to Cinque Terre

Take an early train to the beautiful coastal area of Cinque Terre.
Train from Bologna Centrale to Monterosso al Mare.
EUR 20, 2 hours

10:30AM

Hike Between Monterosso and Vernazza

Start your day with a scenic hike between the picturesque towns.
Hiking trail accessible from Monterosso.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Guido

Stop for lunch and recharge with local seafood and pastas in Vernazza.
Walking distance.
EUR 12, 1 hour

02:00PM

Explore Vernazza

Spend some time wandering around Vernazza before heading to Corniglia.
Walk along the coast.
Free, 1 hour

04:00PM

Hike to Corniglia

Enjoy another scenic hike towards Corniglia, nestled on a cliff.
Follow the hiking trail.
Free, 1.5 hours

06:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria dal Billy

End your day with an amazing seafood dinner overlooking the bay.
Walking distance.
EUR 18, 2 hours
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Day 10: Continuation in Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

08:30AM

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy a simple Italian breakfast of coffee and pastry at a café.
Walking distance.
EUR 4, 30 minutes

09:30AM

Explore Riomaggiore

Delve into the enchanting village of Riomaggiore and its colourful houses.
Train or hike from Corniglia.
EUR 4 (train), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante da Pocho

Savour local dishes in a traditional restaurant surrounded by stunning views.
Borrow a table in the plaza.
EUR 12, 1 hour

01:00PM

Visit Manarola

Head to Manarola to explore its stunning views and picturesque beaches.
Train from Riomaggiore.
EUR 4, 1 hour

03:00PM

Hike the Via dell'Amore

Walk along the famous Via dell'Amore trail connecting Manarola to Riomaggiore.
Walk along the coastal path.
Free, 1 hour

05:00PM

Dinner at Da Billy

Revisit this delightful spot for an evening meal to remember.
Return to Riomaggiore by train.
EUR 18, 2 hours
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Day 11: Day Trip to Milan

Milan, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Milan

Take an early train from Cinque Terre to Milan for a day of fashion and culture.
Train from Monterosso to Milano Centrale.
EUR 25, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Explore Milan’s stunning cathedral and climb to the rooftop for striking views.
Walking distance.
EUR 15, 2 hours

01:30PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Spontini

Enjoy slices of Milanese-style pizza, known for its thick crust.
Walk 15 minutes.
EUR 8, 1 hour

03:00PM

Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through this luxurious shopping gallery, marveling at the architecture.
Walking distance.
Free, 45 minutes

04:00PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Discover the famous castle and its museums set in a beautiful park.
Walk 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

06:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Indulge in classic Milanese dishes at this welcoming trattoria.
Walk from the castle.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Day at Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Lake Como

Take a train to Lake Como and enjoy a day in one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes.
Train from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni.
EUR 10, 1 hour

09:30AM

Explore Como Town

Walk around Como Town, enjoying its charming streets and lake views.
Walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Take a Ferry to Bellagio

Ferry across Lake Como to the exquisite town of Bellagio.
Catch a ferry at the lakefront.
EUR 15 round trip., 1.5 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Punta

Savour local dishes with stunning lake views in Bellagio.
Walking distance in Bellagio.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours

03:00PM

Explore Bellagio

Stroll through the quaint streets of Bellagio, embracing the serene atmosphere.
Walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

05:00PM

Return to Como

Catch the ferry back to Como and prepare to head back to Milan.
Return on ferry.
Free (included in return trip), 1 hour

06:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Vito

Finish your day with a delightful meal featuring local ingredients.
Walk around the area.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Culinary Arts in Naples

Naples, Italy

08:00AM

Travel to Naples

Head to Naples via train for a taste of authentic pizza and Italian culture.
Train from Milano Centrale to Napoli Centrale.
EUR 30, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Michele

Savour one of the best pizzas in the world, straight from Naples, at this historic pizzeria.
Walking distance.
EUR 10, 1 hour

01:30PM

Explore the Historic Centre

Take a stroll through the bustling streets of Naples, admiring its vibrant atmosphere.
Walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

03:30PM

Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum

Discover Roman artifacts and ancient treasures that showcase Naples' historical significance.
Walking distance.
EUR 15, 2 hours

06:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Carmela

Enjoy a traditional Neapolitan dinner, featuring local flavours and aromas.
Walking distance.
EUR 18, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Final Day in Rome

Rome, Italy

09:00AM

Travel to Rome

Journey back to Rome via train in preparation for your departure.
Train from Napoli Centrale to Roma Termini.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Spend your last morning picking up unique souvenirs in the lively Campo de' Fiori.
Walk 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Momus

Enjoy a delicious farewell lunch at this affordable spot famous for its paninis and pasta.
Walk from the market.
EUR 10, 1 hour

02:00PM

Explore Trastevere

End your trip by wandering the charming neighbourhood of Trastevere, taking in the local vibes.
Walk 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

04:00PM

Final Dinner at La Carbonara

Enjoy a final meal of classic Roman dishes as a perfect end to your Italian adventure.
Take the bus from Trastevere.
EUR 15, 2 hours
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