How many days do you need in Italy?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Italy, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Italy?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Italy. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Italy

Day 1: Exploring Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio Bonci

Start your day with a delicious slice of pizza bianca at this popular bakery, known for its fresh and affordable Italian pastries.

EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Colosseum

Explore the iconic Colosseum, where ancient gladiators once fought, while skirting the high entrance fees by booking a guided tour online.

EUR16, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Baffetto

Enjoy a delicious yet affordable margherita pizza in one of the busiest pizzerias known for its local flavors.

EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll through the Roman Forum

Wander through the historical ruins of the Roman Forum, providing insight into the daily life of ancient Romans.

EUR0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Trastevere District

Catch the sunset in this picturesque neighborhood full of cobblestone streets and artisan shops, perfect for bargain hunting.

EUR0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tonnarello

Savor traditional Roman pasta dishes at this cozy restaurant, known for affordability.

EUR12, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Vatican Wonders

Rome, Italy

8:30AM

Breakfast at Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè

Enjoy a cup of coffee from one of the best cafés in Rome along with a cornetto for an authentic Italian breakfast.

EUR6, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Vatican Museums

Marvel at the vast art collections, including the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo, while getting a reduced ticket price for morning entry.

EUR17, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzarium

Grab a slice of gourmet pizza by the slice, made fresh daily, while on your way back to Vatican City.

EUR8, 1 hour

2:30PM

St. Peter's Basilica

Take in the splendor of one of the largest churches in the world, and don’t miss the free entry.

EUR0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Climb to the Dome

For a modest entrance fee, climb the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica for panoramic views of Rome.

EUR10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Enzo

Delight in home-cooked Roman dishes at this family-run trattoria that offers flavors at reasonable prices.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Florence Introduction

Florence, Italy

7:00AM

Travel to Florence

Take an early train from Rome to Florence, enjoying scenic views of the Italian countryside.

EUR25, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Savor brioche with gelato or a traditional cornetto at this pastel-colored bakery.

EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Duomo

Visit Florence Cathedral to view its iconic dome, free to enter, and go up for a small fee.

EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Osteria All'Antico Vinaio

Indulge in a famous schiacciata sandwich, packed with local ingredients, at this well-loved eatery.

EUR8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Discover Renaissance masterpieces at the Uffizi, where booking online allows access at a discounted rate.

EUR12, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Mario

Relish Florentine ribollita soup or pappa al pomodoro in this rustic-style trattoria, perfect for thrifty travelers.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Murate

Enjoy a rich Italian cappuccino and a pastry in a historic setting, perfect to start your day.

EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo's David up close by booking your ticket online to save time and money.

EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Walk the Ponte Vecchio

Stroll across Florence's most famous bridge, enjoying its shops and charm without spending a dime.

EUR0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Explore the vibrant food market and grab affordable bites from various stalls showcasing local cuisine.

EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax in Boboli Gardens

Wander through the lush gardens while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere, with a small admission fee.

EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Cinghiale Bianco

Taste exquisite Tuscan dishes in a welcoming environment, ensuring you stay well-fed on a budget.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Florence

Day 5: Venice Unplugged

Venice, Italy

7:00AM

Travel to Venice

Board an early train from Florence to Venice while enjoying the picturesque landscape.

EUR30, 2 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Treat yourself to a traditional Venetian pastry along with a coffee at this beloved local café.

EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore St. Mark’s Square

Visit the famous square and admire St. Mark's Basilica's façade—entry is free for the church.

EUR0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Al Squero

Enjoy cicchetti, Venice's traditional tapas-style snacks, paired with a spritz at this charming eatery.

EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Doge’s Palace

Marvel at the opulent gothic architecture of Doge's Palace; consider using a discount ticket if visiting multiple attractions.

EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Gondola Ride

Experience a shared gondola ride through the canals, a quintessential Venice experience; share costs with fellow travelers.

EUR25, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Fiore

Indulge in an affordable seafood dish at this charming trattoria, known for its friendly service and local cuisine.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Venice Adventures

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè del Doge

Relish a fine coffee and a pastry to fuel your exploration for the day.

EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Burano Island

Take a vaporetto to Burano, famous for its colorful houses and lace-making, experiencing a picturesque day trip.

EUR20, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Romano

Savor risotto with fish dishes or local plates at this family-friendly locale in Burano.

EUR18, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax and Explore Burano

Take your time walking along the canals, snapping photos of the vibrant houses, and experiencing local culture.

EUR0, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Ca' d'Oro

Finish your day with a hearty meal of homemade pasta at an affordable trattoria near the main canal.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Venice

Day 7: Final Day in Milan

Milan, Italy

7:00AM

Travel to Milan

Take a train from Venice to Milan, absorbing the changing scenery along the way.

EUR30, 2.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Panzerotti Luini

Indulge in a delightful panzerotto stuffed with mozzarella and tomato to kick-start your Milanese adventure.

EUR5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Marvel at the stunning gothic cathedral at the heart of Milan, exploring its interiors for free.

EUR0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Enjoy a casual lunch with a slice of pizza or a panzerotto for a late afternoon pick-me-up.

EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Sforza Castle

Roam through the historical castle grounds and museums; the outside view is free and the entry is budget-friendly.

EUR5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Al Pomodoro

Conclude your Italian adventure with a farewell dinner featuring classic Milanese risottos at this local favorite.

EUR15, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Milan

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Italy

Day 1: Exploring Rome

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Vatican Wonders

8:30AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Florence Introduction

7:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Florence

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 5: Venice Unplugged

7:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

Day 6: Venice Adventures

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 7: Final Day in Milan

7:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

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