15-Day Comprehensive Italy Itinerary: Historic Cities, Scenic Countrysides & Culinary Delights

Day 1: Historic Rome

Rome, Italy on April 16, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Enjoy traditional Italian pastries and excellent espresso at this popular local café near Campo de' Fiori.

EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Explore these iconic ancient sites showcasing Rome's imperial history. Book skip-the-line tickets to save time.

EUR18, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Luzzi

Taste authentic Roman cuisine including classic pasta dishes like carbonara in this charming trattoria nearby the Colosseum.

EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Walk to these stunning architectural masterpieces; the Pantheon offers unique ancient structure and Piazza Navona lively Baroque fountains.

Free to walk around, Pantheon entry EUR5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Visit these iconic landmarks for photo opportunities and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as the evening sets in.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Dine on homemade pasta and traditional Roman dishes crafted in front of you, offering an intimate and authentic experience.

EUR35, 2 hours

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Day 2: Vatican & More

Rome, Italy on April 17, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Start your day with famous maritozzi (sweet buns) and coffee at this local favourite bakery.

EUR6, 1 hour

8:30AM

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Experience extraordinary art and history in the Vatican museums culminating with Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Pre-book timed tickets to avoid waits.

EUR30, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria La Montecarlo

Enjoy some of Rome’s best thin-crust pizza in this casual, lively spot close to Vatican City.

EUR15, 1 hour

2:30PM

St. Peter’s Basilica

Explore the world’s largest church; climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome if time permits (opens till 6pm).

Basilica free, Dome climb EUR10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Walk along Tiber River and Castel Sant'Angelo

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the river and tour the historic fortress, which offers fascinating exhibits and city views.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Experience classic Roman dishes with fresh ingredients in this well-rated restaurant in Trastevere neighbourhood.

EUR30, 2 hours

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Day 3: Baroque Rome & Departure

Rome, Italy on April 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè

Try one of Rome’s best espressos paired with light pastries before a day of exploration.

EUR7, 1 hour

9:00AM

Galleria Borghese

Enjoy a rich collection of Renaissance and Baroque art in this splendid villa with surrounding gardens. Booking ahead essential.

EUR25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Casina Valadier

Dine in a beautiful setting overlooking Rome’s skyline in Villa Borghese park.

EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Travel to Florence by train

Take a high-speed train from Rome Termini to Florence Santa Maria Novella; journey lasts about 1.5 hours.

EUR50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in & explore Florence centre

Settle in hotel and take a gentle walk visiting Piazza del Duomo and Ponte Vecchio to soak in the Renaissance atmosphere.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Mario

Enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine popular with locals, daily seasonal specials, and excellent steaks.

EUR35, 2 hours

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Day 4: Florence Art & History

Florence, Italy on April 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Gilli

Begin with traditional Tuscan breakfast pastries and cappuccino in this historic café at Piazza della Repubblica.

EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Uffizi Gallery

Admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo & Leonardo da Vinci; pre-book tickets to avoid queues. Opens 8:15AM-6:30PM, closed Mondays.

EUR25, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Casual market setting offering varied regional foods including fresh pasta, cured meats, and cheeses.

EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo's David and other Renaissance works. Opens 8:15AM-6:50PM. Booking recommended.

EUR20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Piazzale Michelangelo

Walk or take a short bus ride to this famous viewpoint for panoramic vistas of Florence at sunset.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Giostra

Try exquisite Tuscan dishes in a warm, romantic atmosphere enhanced by family recipes.

EUR40, 2 hours

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Day 5: Florence to Cinque Terre

Florence to Cinque Terre, Italy on April 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Fuel up with fresh pastries and strong coffee in this local pastry shop before traveling.

EUR8, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Cinque Terre by train

Take a train from Florence to La Spezia (about 2.5 hours), then connect to local trains to visit villages in Cinque Terre.

EUR30, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Miky in Monterosso

Savour fresh seafood and Ligurian specialties in one of the best restaurants in Monterosso, the largest Cinque Terre village.

EUR35, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Monterosso al Mare

Relax on the beach, scan the quaint old town and visit the 13th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista.

Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Hike to Vernazza

Enjoy a scenic 90-minute hike along the Blue Trail to the picturesque village of Vernazza. Ensure sturdy shoes and water.

EUR7 (Cinque Terre Card for trails), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Belforte Restaurant

Dine on seafood specialties with breathtaking sea views right on Vernazza’s cliffside.

EUR40, 2 hours

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Day 6: Cinque Terre Villages

Cinque Terre, Italy on April 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar Centrale Vernazza

Enjoy espresso and fresh pastries in the lively village centre to start your day.

EUR7, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Manarola & Explore

Visit the charming village of Manarola, famous for its colourful houses and sea views. Wander the harbour and enjoy photo opportunities.

EUR4 (train fare within Cinque Terre), 2 hours

11:30AM

Boat tour of Cinque Terre Coast

Take a one-hour boat tour from Manarola or Monterosso for spectacular views of the coast and villages from the sea. Tours usually run from 11AM to 5PM.

EUR25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Nessun Dorma, Manarola

Enjoy light lunches and aperitifs with outstanding views of the rocky coast. Recommended for its relaxed atmosphere and sunset views.

EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hike or train to Corniglia

Reach the smallest village perched high on a cliff; explore narrow streets and tranquil setting. Hiking is strenuous; train is faster.

Hiking permit EUR7 or train EUR4, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Monterosso

Relax in Monterosso, stroll through the old town and along the beach as evening falls.

EUR4 (train fare), 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Belvedere

Savour traditional Ligurian seafood dishes with lovely views in Monterosso.

EUR40, 2 hours

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Day 7: To Venice

Cinque Terre to Venice, Italy on April 22, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel or local café

Enjoy a quick breakfast of coffee and pastries to prepare for travel day.

EUR8, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Venice by train

Take trains via La Spezia and Bologna to Venice Santa Lucia station, journey approx. 5-6 hours with luggage storage available at stations.

EUR70, 6 hours

2:30PM

Check-in & light lunch at Bacaro Jazz

Relax with cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a spritz in this popular local spot near Rialto Bridge.

EUR20, 1 hour

4:00PM

St Mark’s Square & Basilica

Visit the iconic piazza and breathtaking basilica. Doors open till early evening; entry to basilica is free but skip-the-line for museum and tower recommended.

Free to enter basilica, museum EUR5, 2 hours

6:30PM

Gondola Ride

Experience a classic gondola ride through Venice canals, offering a unique perspective of the city’s architecture.

EUR80 for 30 mins, 0.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere

Enjoy exquisite seafood fare focusing on fresh, local ingredients in this small, highly regarded Venice restaurant.

EUR50, 2 hours

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Day 8: Venice Culture & Canals

Venice, Italy on April 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Rosa Salva

Try Venetian sweet treats and great coffee in this local favourite pastry shop.

EUR7, 1 hour

9:00AM

Doge’s Palace

Explore the stunning Gothic Palace, its grand halls, and secret prison routes. Opens 8:30AM-7PM.

EUR30 with combined ticket for St Mark's Basilica, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria al Gazzettino

Savour hearty Venetian dishes in a casual, lively setting near Rialto.

EUR25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Murano and Burano Island Tour

Half-day guided boat trip to islands famous for glassmaking and colourful houses. Tours usually run until late afternoon.

EUR35, 4 hours

6:30PM

Evening walk & gelato at Gelateria Nico

Stroll along the Zattere promenade and enjoy some of Venice’s best gelato near the canal.

EUR5, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Delight in fresh Venetian seafood dishes far from the tourist crowds in this hidden gem.

EUR45, 2 hours

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Day 9: Venice to Milan

Venice to Milan, Italy on April 24, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel or local caffè

A quick breakfast before departure to Milan.

EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Milan by train

High-speed train journey to Milan Centrale takes approximately 2.5 hours.

EUR40, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Famous for their panzerotti, this Milan spot offers quick, delicious street food near the Duomo.

EUR10, 45 mins

1:00PM

Visit Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)

Admire this magnificent Gothic cathedral and, if weather permits, access the rooftop for panoramic city views. Opens 9AM-7PM.

EUR15, 2 hours

3:30PM

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II & La Scala

Explore the elegant shopping arcade and visit the La Scala Opera House museum nearby.

Free entry; museum EUR10, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Walk through Brera District

Explore this artsy neighbourhood with galleries, shops and vibrant cafés.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Santa Marta

Enjoy classic Milanese cuisine such as risotto alla Milanese in a cosy setting.

EUR40, 2 hours

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Day 10: Milan & Lake Como

Milan & Lake Como, Italy on April 25, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pavé

Have a modern bakery breakfast with excellent pastries and coffee.

EUR10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Lake Como by train

Train from Milan to Como takes about 1 hour; plan a lakeside day trip.

EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Boat tour of Lake Como

Enjoy a scenic boat ride visiting picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Several operators provide tours from 10AM to late afternoon.

EUR25, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bellagio’s La Punta Spartivento

Eat fresh lake fish and Italian dishes with stunning lake views.

EUR35, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Villa Melzi Gardens

Stroll the beautiful gardens and historic villa grounds in Bellagio.

EUR7, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to Milan

Train back to Milan for overnight stay.

EUR10, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Eataly Milano Smeraldo

Dine at one of Italy’s largest gourmet food markets offering diverse options featuring local and regional specialities.

EUR30, 2 hours

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Day 11: Travel to Naples

Milan to Naples, Italy on April 26, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Start with a quick breakfast to prepare for a longer train journey south.

EUR8, 1 hour

8:00AM

Train from Milan to Naples

High-speed train journey of approximately 4.5 hours; consider booking in advance for best prices.

EUR70, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sorbillo Pizza

Experience traditional Neapolitan pizza at this world-famous pizzeria in Naples centre.

EUR15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Naples Historic Centre Walking Tour

Visit landmarks such as Naples Cathedral, Spaccanapoli street, and the National Archaeological Museum. Museums usually open until 6 or 7PM.

Museum EUR15, walking free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Check-in hotel

Relax and freshen up before dinner.

Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Nennella

Enjoy hearty southern Italian dishes in a lively, authentic local atmosphere.

EUR25, 2 hours

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Day 12: Pompeii & Amalfi Coast

Naples & Amalfi Coast, Italy on April 27, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Gran Caffè Gambrinus

Classic Neapolitan coffee palace serving traditional pastries and espresso.

EUR10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Pompeii Ruins

Tour the ancient Roman city destroyed by Mt. Vesuvius eruption; site opens from 9AM to 7:30PM. Plan at least 3 hours to explore fully.

EUR20, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch near Pompeii at Caupona

Mediterranean dishes served in an atmospheric setting inspired by the ancient city.

EUR25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Travel to Amalfi Coast (Positano)

Private transfer or bus to Positano (approx. 1.5-2 hours), known for dramatic cliffs and colourful houses.

EUR40, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Positano

Stroll the narrow streets, visit shops and relax on the beach as the sun lowers.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Tagliata

Taste organic homemade dishes with spectacular views over the Amalfi Coast, reservation recommended.

EUR45, 2 hours

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Day 13: Amalfi Coast Villages

Amalfi Coast, Italy on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Casa e Bottega

Healthy, fresh breakfast focusing on local ingredients with great views.

EUR15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Boat trip to Amalfi and Ravello

Enjoy a boat ride along the coast visiting Amalfi town and Ravello (accessible via shuttle). Explore town squares, gardens, and historical sites. Boats operate from 9AM to 5PM.

EUR35, 5 hours