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12-Day Adventure in Italy and Ireland: A Budget-Friendly Itinerary from Houston

Viewed by 114 travelers

Day 1: Departure Day

Houston, USA on October 1, 2025

10:00 AM

Explore Houston Before Flight

Visit local coffee shops for a last-minute breakfast or see a nearby park. Enjoy a relaxed morning in Houston before your long trip.
US Dollar 0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Head to the Airport

Make your way to George Bush Intercontinental Airport for your flight. Be sure to arrive at least 2 hours before your international flight.
US Dollar 0, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Flight Departure to Rome

Board your international flight which will take approximately 10 hours to reach Rome, Italy. Make sure to pack snacks and entertainment for the trip.
Included in Flight Cost, 10 hours
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Day 2: Arrival in Rome

Rome, Italy on October 2, 2025

1:00 PM

Check Into Hotel

Arrive in Rome and check into your budget accommodation. Take a moment to rest before starting your explorations.
EUR 50, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Ai Marmi

Indulge in delicious Roman-style pizza at this famous pizzeria, known for its thin, crispy crust. Be sure to try the Margherita pizza.
EUR 15, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Colosseum

Explore the iconic Colosseum, a symbol of ancient Rome. Learn about its history and architecture, and envision the gladiatorial battles that once took place here.
EUR 18, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Stroll Through the Roman Forum

Wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum, which was the center of Roman public life. It's a breathtaking look into ancient history.
Included in Colosseum ticket, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo

Enjoy a traditional Roman dinner at Da Enzo, famous for its generous portions of classic pasta dishes, including Carbonara.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rome

Day 3: Roman Exploration

Rome, Italy on October 3, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bar Pompi

Start your day with their famous tiramisu or a light Italian pastry paired with coffee. A perfect pick-me-up for a day of exploration.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Vatican City

Head to Vatican City to see St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Don't miss out on the Sistine Chapel, the highlight of the museums.
EUR 30, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Pannella

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at this local deli known for its sandwiches made with fresh ingredients and hearty flavors.
EUR 10, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore the Pantheon

Visit the Pantheon, an ancient Roman temple that has stood for nearly 2000 years, showcasing incredible engineering and beautiful architecture.
EUR 5, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Wander Through the Piazza Navona

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Navona, with its stunning fountains and street performances. It's a great spot for photography.
EUR 0, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Gelato at Giolitti

Treat yourself to one of the best gelatos in Rome at Giolitti. With many flavors to choose from, this spot is a must-visit!
EUR 3, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Savor authentic Roman cuisine in this highly-rated osteria famous for its handmade pasta dishes, particularly the Cacio e Pepe.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rome

Day 4: Travel to Florence

Florence, Italy on October 4, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café with croissants and coffee before your journey to Florence.
EUR 4, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Train to Florence

Take a scenic train ride to Florence, enjoying picturesque views of the Italian countryside along the way.
EUR 20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Check Into Hotel

Arrive in Florence and check into your hotel or budget accommodation.
EUR 50, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Mercado Centrale

Head over to Central Market for a delicious lunch of freshly made pasta or a variety of local specialties. Plenty of options to choose from!
EUR 15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by renowned artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo. Pre-book tickets to avoid long lines.
EUR 25, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Walk to Ponte Vecchio

Stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge, lined with shops selling jewelry and local crafts, while enjoying beautiful views of the Arno River.
EUR 0, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at Piazzale Michelangelo

Take a leisurely walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for stunning panoramic views of Florence, especially beautiful during sunset.
EUR 0, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Trattoria Mario

Enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine at this popular spot known for its welcoming atmosphere and fantastic ribollita soup.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Florence

Day 5: Pisa and Cinque Terre

Pisa and Cinque Terre, Italy on October 5, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your hotel before departing for a day trip.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Day Trip to Pisa

Take a train to Pisa to visit the famous Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli. Don't forget to snap some fun photos!
EUR 16, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Continue to Cinque Terre

Catch another train to the breathtaking villages of Cinque Terre, renowned for their stunning coastal scenery and picturesque homes.
EUR 10, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch in Monterosso

Stop in Monterosso, one of the Cinque Terre villages, for a seafood lunch. Enjoy fresh catch of the day at one of the beachside restaurants.
EUR 25, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore Cinque Terre

Spend the afternoon hiking between the villages, taking in breathtaking views of the cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea.
EUR 0, 4 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Florence

Head back to Florence by train, reflecting on the beautiful sights and experiences of the day.
EUR 10, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria dell'Enoteca

Enjoy a pleasant dinner at this cozy osteria with an extensive list of local wines and delicious Tuscan dishes.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pisa and Cinque Terre

Day 6: Venice Exploration

Venice, Italy on October 6, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Venice.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Train to Venice

Take a scenic train ride to Venice, where the journey itself is part of the adventure.
EUR 20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Check Into Hotel

Arrive in Venice and check into your hotel or budget accommodation for the next two nights.
EUR 50, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Pietro

Dine on freshly prepared Venetian seafood dishes in this charming trattoria known for its local specialties.
EUR 20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Gondola Ride

Take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice for a quintessential Venetian experience. Prices can vary, be sure to haggle!
EUR 80, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit St. Mark's Basilica

Explore the stunning St. Mark's Basilica with its ornate architecture and frescoed interiors. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.
EUR 0, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Stroll the Rialto Bridge

Walk across the iconic Rialto Bridge and take pictures of the grand canal and bustling markets.
EUR 0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria Alla Madonna

Enjoy authentic Venetian cuisine at this popular osteria, famous for its seafood risotto and cicchetti.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Venice

Day 7: Flight to Ireland

Dublin, Ireland on October 7, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast at your hotel and prepare for your flight to Dublin.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Flight Check-In

Head to the airport for your flight to Dublin. Remember to check-in online for a quicker process.
Included in Flight Cost, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Flight to Dublin

Your flight to Dublin takes about 2.5 hours. Enjoy the aerial views as you approach Ireland.
Included in Flight Cost, 2.5 hours

1:30 PM

Check Into Hotel

Arrive in Dublin and check into your hotel or budget accommodation.
EUR 50, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Lunch at The Woollen Mills

Try traditional Irish dishes at this local favorite, well-known for its hearty comfort food! Don’t miss the Irish stew.
EUR 15, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Explore Dublin Castle

Visit Dublin Castle, an important historic castle and government complex that reflects Ireland's story through the ages.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Walk Through Temple Bar

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Temple Bar district, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural atmosphere.
EUR 0, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Quays Irish Restaurant

Indulge in Irish classics such as fish and chips and a variety of stews in the lively atmosphere of The Quays.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dublin

Day 8: Dublin Adventure

Dublin, Ireland on October 8, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the day ahead.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Guinness Storehouse

Discover the history of Ireland's famous stout and enjoy a pint while soaking in panoramic views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar.
EUR 25, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Wander through Trinity College, home to the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript dating back to the 9th century.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Church Café

Dine in a beautifully restored church with a unique atmosphere, which serves delicious meals and a range of beverages.
EUR 15, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Kilmainham Gaol

Take a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol, a historic prison that played a crucial role in Irish history.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Walk St. Stephen's Green

Unwind and relax in St. Stephen's Green, a picturesque public park that offers a peaceful respite in the city's hustle.
EUR 0, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Dinner at The Brazen Head

End your day at Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head, and enjoy traditional Irish dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dublin

Day 9: Travel to Galway

Galway, Ireland on October 9, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel to start the day.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Bus to Galway

Hop on a bus to Galway, where colorful streets and a lively atmosphere await you.
EUR 15, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Check into Hotel

Arrive in Galway and check into your accommodation.
EUR 50, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Quay Street Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious meal of upscale pub fare and locally sourced ingredients in this casual eatery.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Eyre Square

Take some time to relax at Eyre Square, the heart of Galway, filled with shops and cafes and a great spot for people watching.
EUR 0, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Spanish Arch

Discover the historic Spanish Arch, an iconic landmark that dates back to the 16th century.
EUR 0, 30 minutes

3:30 PM

Walk Along the Salthill Promenade

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Salthill Promenade, taking in the coastal views and fresh sea air.
EUR 0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Deasy's Seafood Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood at Deasy's, known for its locally sourced ingredients and inviting ambiance.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Galway

Day 10: Cliffs of Moher and Doolin

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland on October 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel to prepare for a day of adventure.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Tour to Cliffs of Moher

Join a tour to the Cliffs of Moher, known for their breathtaking views and dramatic cliffs that drop into the Atlantic ocean.
EUR 50, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Doolin Café

Stop at the local Doolin Café for a quick bite before continuing your day. Enjoy light fare and thematic decor.
EUR 10, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Doolin Village

Wander around the charming Doolin village, known for its delightful atmosphere and local shops.
EUR 0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Galway

Travel back to Galway, reflecting on the stunning views and experiences of the day.
EUR 15, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at An Pucan

Dine at An Pucan, a traditional Irish pub known for its warm ambiance and tasty menu that includes pizza and Irish stew.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cliffs of Moher

Day 11: Belfast Adventure

Belfast, Northern Ireland on October 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to kickstart the day.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Bus to Belfast

Take a bus to Belfast and enjoy the sights along the way.
EUR 25, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Check Into Hotel

Arrive in Belfast and check into your accommodation for the night.
EUR 50, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at St. George's Market

Explore local food stalls at St. George’s Market and sample various Irish delicacies.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Titanic Belfast

Discover the city’s rich maritime history at the Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum dedicated to the famous ship.
EUR 22, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Political Tour of West Belfast

Explore the political history of Belfast through guided murals and historical sites that mark the Troubles.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Crown Liquor Saloon

Enjoy a lovely dinner at this historic pub known for its Victorian decor and delicious food.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Belfast

Day 12: Return Home

Dublin, Ireland on October 12, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and prepare for your flight home.
EUR 5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Check Out and Head to Airport

Check out of your hotel and travel to the airport for your flight back to Houston.
EUR 0, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Flight to Houston

Board your flight home and reflect on your wonderful memories from Italy and Ireland.
Included in Flight Cost, 10 hours
Find Hotels in Dublin
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