13-Day Romantic Italy to Switzerland Itinerary: Landmarks, Art, and Scenic Trains

Day 1: Explore Pisa

Pisa, Italy on October 1, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Salza

Start your day with delicious pastries and cappuccino at this local favorite, known for its Italian sweet treats.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

An iconic symbol of Italy, this architectural marvel offers stunning views of the Piazza dei Miracoli.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli

Walk around the beautiful square that houses several historical monuments, including the Cathedral and Baptistery.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at La Taverna di Emma

Enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients in a cozy, rustic setting.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Train to Rome

Take a high-speed train to Rome, providing scenic views of the Tuscan countryside during the ride.
EUR30, 2 hours

Day 2: Rome Highlights

Rome, Italy on October 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Antico Caffè Greco

This historic café offers a classic Italian breakfast in a charming setting frequented by famous artists.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Colosseum

Explore the ancient Roman amphitheater and imagine the grand events that once took place here.
EUR18, 2 hours

11:00AM

Wander through the Pantheon

Marvel at the architectural brilliance of this ancient temple, now a church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

Taste authentic Roman dishes in this beloved eatery known for its delicious pasta and friendly atmosphere.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Vatican City

Discover St. Peter's Basilica and the stunning Sistine Chapel filled with Michelangelo's masterpieces.
EUR25, 3 hours

Day 3: More of Rome

Rome, Italy on October 3, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Arome Café

Indulge in a delightful breakfast with a stunning view of the city from this rooftop café.
EUR18, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Roman Forum

Stroll through the ruins of ancient Rome and get a glimpse of its glorious past in the heart of the city.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Baffetto

Savor some of the best pizza in Rome at this vibrant pizzeria known for its thin-crust creations.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Evening stroll at Trastevere

Wander the charming streets of Trastevere, filled with colorful buildings and lively shops.
Free, 2 hours

Day 4: Venice Arrival

Venice, Italy on October 4, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Antiche Figure

Enjoy a scenic breakfast in this quaint hotel offering delectable pastries and stunning river views.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Train to Venice

Take a train to Venice, soaking in the beautiful landscapes as you travel.
EUR25, 3.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Venetian dishes in a delightful atmosphere.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gondola Ride

Experience Venice from its famous waterways on a romantic gondola ride through the canals.
EUR80, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Visit St. Mark's Basilica

Marvel at the magnificent architecture and rich history of this iconic cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Venice Exploration

Venice, Italy on October 5, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Florian

Enjoy a luxurious breakfast in one of the oldest cafés in the world, overlooking St. Mark's Square.
EUR25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Doge's Palace

Explore the grandeur of the former residence of the Doge of Venice, filled with art and history.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero

Feast on traditional Venetian cuisine in the beautiful Burano, famous for its colorful houses.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Murano Glass Factory Tour

Witness the art of glass-making in Murano and shop for unique items directly from the artisans.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Explore Florence

Florence, Italy on October 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee at this local bakery, beloved by Florentines.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Home to the world's most important collection of Renaissance art, this gallery is a must-see for art lovers.
EUR25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Enjoy a hearty Tuscan meal in this popular trattoria known for its flavorful dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Florence Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning architecture and climb the dome for incredible city views.
EUR18, 2 hours

Day 7: Have Fun in Florence

Florence, Italy on October 7, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Concerto

Savor a delightful Italian breakfast with a view of the Duomo in this elegant café.
EUR20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo's iconic statue of David and other Renaissance masterpieces housed in this renowned gallery.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Sample various local dishes in this bustling market filled with food stalls and eateries.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Afternoon in Boboli Gardens

Relax in the tranquil gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, and beautiful landscapes.
EUR10, 2 hours

Day 8: Head to Milan

Milan, Italy on October 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Grab a quick local pastry and coffee at this popular bakery before you leave Florence.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Milan

Enjoy a scenic train ride to Milan while taking in the gorgeous Italian landscapes.
EUR20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Explore the stunning cathedral and, if you're feeling adventurous, climb to the rooftop for panoramic views.
EUR15, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Try the famous panzerotti at this quick and casual joint loved by locals and tourists alike.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Shop or simply admire the stunning architecture of this historic shopping arcade.
Free, 1.5 hours

Day 9: Onward to Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland on October 9, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for your scenic train journey to Lucerne.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Lucerne

Travel via train through stunning Swiss landscapes, including mountains and lakes.
CHF50, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Balances

Enjoy fresh Swiss cuisine with views of Lake Lucerne at this lovely lakeside restaurant.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Chapel Bridge

Stroll across this iconic wooden bridge, adorned with paintings and surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Free, 1 hour

Day 10: Interlaken Adventure

Interlaken, Switzerland on October 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel des Alpes

Start your day with a delicious Swiss breakfast in this charming hotel overlooking the mountains.
CHF25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Interlaken

Enjoy the stunning views during the scenic train ride to Interlaken.
CHF30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lake Brienz Boat Tour

Experience the beauty of Lake Brienz on a relaxing boat tour through the turquoise water.
CHF40, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Taverne

Savor traditional Swiss dishes in a rustic setting after your boat adventure.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

Day 11: Lauterbrunnen Delight

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland on October 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Oberland

Enjoy a traditional Swiss breakfast in this picturesque hotel, complete with mountain views.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Trümmelbach Falls

Explore the impressive waterfalls inside the mountain, a hidden gem of the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
CHF12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Weidstüble

Indulge in a hearty meal featuring local specialties in a cozy mountain chalet setting.
CHF25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike to Lauterbrunnen Valley

Experience the breathtaking landscapes during a hike through this picturesque valley.
Free, 2.5 hours

Day 12: Zurich Culture

Zurich, Switzerland on October 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Babu's Bakery & Coffeehouse

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with fresh baked goods in this cozy café in Zurich.
CHF15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Old Town

Wander through the charming narrow streets of Zurich's historical heart.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Taste traditional Swiss and German dishes in this historic restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Swiss National Museum

Immerse yourself in Swiss history and culture at this fascinating museum.
CHF10, 2 hours

Day 13: Zurich Departure

Zurich, Switzerland on October 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ernas Café

Enjoy a final breakfast of Swiss pastries and coffee in this lovely café.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Zurich's main shopping district.
Free, 2 hours