5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Italy

Day 1: Ancient Rome Exploration

Rome, Italy on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Start your day with classic Italian pastries and espresso at this beloved Roman café, known for its genuine atmosphere and great coffee.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour

Explore the iconic Colosseum and Roman Forum; the guided tour offers deep insights into ancient Roman history and architecture. These sites open at 8:30am.
EUR18, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

Enjoy authentic Roman cuisine, including pasta all'Amatriciana or cacio e pepe in this cozy trattoria in Trastevere.
EUR25, 1.5h

3:00pm

Visit Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Tour the world-famous Vatican Museums and marvel at the Sistine Chapel's frescoes. Booking tickets ahead is recommended; open 9am to 6pm.
EUR17, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria del Pegno

End the day with a delicious Italian dinner featuring local ingredients and seasonal dishes in this charming Osteria near Piazza Navona.
EUR40, 2h

Day 2: Renaissance Florence

Florence, Italy on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Caffè Gilli

Start with traditional Florentine pastries and cappuccino at one of the oldest cafés in Florence, located in Piazza della Repubblica.
EUR12, 1h

9:00am

Uffizi Gallery Tour

Explore masterpieces of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli and Michelangelo. The gallery opens at 8:15am; advance booking is essential.
EUR20, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Savor traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita or Florentine steak in this popular local spot open for lunch only.
EUR30, 1.5h

2:30pm

Visit Florence Cathedral and Baptistry

Climb to the top of the Duomo for panoramic city views and admire the intricate façade of the Baptistry. Open from 10am to 5pm.
EUR15, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll across Ponte Vecchio

Walk along the historic bridge known for its jewelry shops and scenic views of the Arno river during sunset.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at La Giostra

Enjoy romantic dining with Tuscan specialties and a great wine list in this intimate restaurant run by the Habsburg family.
EUR50, 2h

Day 3: Pisa Sights and Florence Leisure

Pisa & Florence, Italy on April 23, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your accommodation before heading out for the day.
Included, 30m

8:00am

Day Trip to Pisa

Travel by train to Pisa (about 1 hour). Visit the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistery; gates open at 10am for climbing the tower.
EUR25 for tower climb, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch near Piazza dei Miracoli

Enjoy Tuscan specialties and pizza at Ristorante La Buca, close to Pisa’s main attractions.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Return to Florence

Spend afternoon visiting Boboli Gardens or relaxing in Piazza della Signoria, exploring shops.
EUR10 for gardens, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Il Latini

Sample hearty Florentine cuisine in a lively atmosphere, perfect to wrap up the day.
EUR40, 2h

Day 4: Venetian Canal Charm

Venice, Italy on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Taste Venetian pastries and fresh coffee at this historic bakery well-loved by locals.
EUR10, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Venice

Take a train from Florence to Venice (~2 hours). Check-in and prepare for sightseeing.
EUR40, 2h

11:00am

St. Mark's Basilica and Square

Explore the magnificent basilica and lively square; basilica opens at 9:30am with free entry but fees apply for museum areas.
EUR5, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes renowned in Venice, this small spot requires advance booking.
EUR50, 1.5h

3:00pm

Gondola Ride

Experience the charm of Venetian canals aboard a gondola. Typically lasts about 30-40 minutes.
EUR80, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Doge’s Palace

Tour this gothic masterpiece and learn about Venice’s rich history; open until 7pm.
EUR25, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Dine on traditional Venetian dishes away from the tourist crowds in this popular local eatery.
EUR60, 2h

Day 5: Modern Milan Highlights

Milan, Italy on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Grab fresh Milanese pastries and coffee at this beloved bakery near the central station.
EUR8, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Milan

Morning train from Venice to Milan (~2.5 hours). Check into your hotel upon arrival.
EUR50, 2.5h

11:00am

Visit Milan Cathedral (Duomo) and Rooftop

Explore the stunning gothic cathedral and take in city views from its rooftop terraces; open from 9am to 7pm.
EUR15, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Luini

Try Milan’s famous panzerotti, a delicious fried or baked savory pastry, at this iconic local takeaway spot.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Sforza Castle and Parco Sempione

Tour the historic castle housing several museums and enjoy the greenery of the adjacent park. Castle open till 5:30pm.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Aperitivo and Dinner at Navigli District

Experience Milan’s lively canal-side nightlife with an aperitivo followed by dinner in one of the trendy restaurants along the Navigli canals.
EUR40, 3h