7-Day Northern to Central Italy Road Trip: Milan to Rome via Venice, Padua, Pisa, and Florence

Day 1: Explore Milan

Milan, Italy on May 2, 2025

9:30am

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Enjoy a traditional Milanese breakfast with fresh pastries and a cappuccino at this local bakery known for its authentic flavours.
EUR5, 0h30m

10:00am

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Explore Milan’s iconic cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture and rooftop terraces offering panoramic city views.
EUR15, 1h30m

11:45am

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Walk through Italy’s oldest shopping arcade featuring elegant shops, cafes, and beautiful glass ceilings.
Free, 0h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Luini

Try the famous panzerotti, a delicious stuffed pastry popular in Milan, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch.
EUR8, 1h

1:45pm

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

Enjoy a diverse collection of Italian Renaissance art in an elegant palace setting; the museum closes at 7:15pm, so there’s plenty of time.
EUR12, 2h

4:00pm

Stroll through Brera District

Wander the charming artistic neighbourhood with boutiques, cafes and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy an afternoon break.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Savour traditional Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese and ossobuco in a welcoming rustic setting.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Venice Highlights

Venice, Italy on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Travel from Milan to Venice

Start early with a scenic train journey of approximately 2.5 hours to Venice, arriving mid-morning.
EUR30, 2h30m

10:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Enjoy Venetian pastries and coffee at one of the city’s best-loved cafes.
EUR7, 0h45m

10:45am

Explore St. Mark's Basilica

Visit the famous basilica to admire impressive Byzantine mosaics and remarkable architecture.
Free entry (small fee for museum and terrace), 1h30m

12:15pm

Stroll around Piazza San Marco

Take in the atmosphere of Venice’s main square, surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes.
Free, 0h45m

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Dine at this highly regarded seafood restaurant known for fresh, local ingredients (booking recommended).
EUR40, 1h30m

2:30pm

Gondola Ride

Experience a classic 30-minute gondola ride through Venice’s scenic canals for a unique perspective of the city.
EUR80, 0h30m

3:15pm

Visit Doge's Palace

Tour the historic palace showcasing Venetian Gothic architecture and art, open until 7pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk across Rialto Bridge

Admire views from the iconic bridge while browsing its shops and nearby market area.
Free, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Enjoy authentic Venetian dishes in an intimate setting away from tourist crowds; reservation recommended.
EUR45, 1h30m
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Day 3: Padua Cultural Tour

Padua, Italy on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Travel Venice to Padua

A short train trip of about 30 minutes to popular university town Padua.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:45am

Breakfast at Caffè Pedrocchi

Start your day with coffee and pastries at this historic and architecturally impressive café.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Scrovegni Chapel

Admire Giotto’s renowned frescoes in this UNESCO site, booking tickets in advance recommended. Open 9am-7pm.
EUR15, 1h

10:45am

Explore Prato della Valle

Walk around one of Europe’s largest squares featuring statues and scenic park areas.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria dai Nanetti

Enjoy traditional Venetian and Paduan cuisine with a local ambiance.
EUR25, 1h30m

1:45pm

Visit Basilica of Saint Anthony

Explore this important pilgrimage church known for its rich history and beautiful art.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

University of Padua Botanical Garden

Discover the world’s oldest academic botanical garden, open until 5:30pm, perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk.
EUR10, 1h30m

5:00pm

Free time in Padua Old Town

Explore quaint streets, shops, and coffee bars at your leisure before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Belle Parti

Taste authentic Paduan dishes, known for local ingredients and warm atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Pisa & Leaning Tower

Pisa, Italy on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Travel Padua to Pisa

Leave early for approximately 3.5 hours train journey to Pisa located in Tuscany.
EUR40, 3h30m

11:15am

Breakfast near Pisa Central Station

Light breakfast with Italian coffee and pastries at a local café before sightseeing.
EUR6, 0h30m

12:00pm

Visit Piazza dei Miracoli and Leaning Tower

Climb the iconic Leaning Tower, visit the cathedral and baptistery; reserve tickets online to avoid queues. Open until 8pm.
EUR30, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at La Buca

Enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine close to the piazza with casual, tasty options.
EUR25, 1h

3:15pm

Stroll along the Arno River

Leisurely walk on banks offering gorgeous views and photo opportunities of Pisa’s landmarks and bridges.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Museo dell'Opera del Duomo

Discover original artworks and sculptures from the monument complex, open until 7pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

6:15pm

Dinner at Ristorante alle Bandierine

Casual dinner featuring fresh pasta and regional specials in a friendly setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Florence Renaissance

Florence, Italy on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Travel Pisa to Florence

Short train journey of approximately 1 hour to Florence, the cradle of Renaissance.
EUR10, 1h

9:15am

Breakfast at Caffè Gilli

Indulge in traditional Italian coffee and pastries in an historic Florentine café near Piazza della Repubblica.
EUR8, 0h45m

10:00am

Visit Uffizi Gallery

Explore world-class Renaissance paintings by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Book tickets in advance; open 8:15am–6:50pm.
EUR20, 2h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Enjoy hearty Tuscan fare at a lively spot loved by locals, open for lunch only till 3pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and climb the Dome

Marvel at Brunelleschi’s dome and panoramic city views. The site is open until 7pm.
EUR20, 2h

4:15pm

Walk across Ponte Vecchio

Explore the iconic medieval bridge lined with jewellery shops and enjoy views of the Arno River.
Free, 0h45m

5:15pm

Visit Boboli Gardens

Relax in this vast Renaissance park behind Pitti Palace with sculptures and fountains; open until 7:30pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Giostra

Dine on refined Tuscan cuisine in a romantic atmosphere, popular with locals and visitors alike.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 6: Rome Ancient & Baroque

Rome, Italy on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Travel Florence to Rome

Take the high-speed train for around 1.5 hours, arriving early to maximise sightseeing.
EUR40, 1h30m

8:45am

Breakfast at Roscioli Caffè

Start with Italian coffee, pastries, and light bites near Campo de’ Fiori.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:30am

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Visit ancient Rome’s iconic amphitheatre and ruins; booking a combined ticket in advance is advised. Open 8:30am–7pm.
EUR18, 3h

12:45pm

Lunch at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Traditional Roman dishes near the Forum in a warm, welcoming venue.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:15pm

Visit Pantheon

Admire this well-preserved ancient Roman temple, free entry; open from 9am to 7pm.
Free, 0h45m

3:15pm

Stroll Piazza Navona

Enjoy the Baroque fountains, street artists, and cafes around Rome’s famous square.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

Visit two of Rome’s landmark attractions, ideal for photos and historic street atmosphere.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Roscioli

Experience a mix of deli, restaurant and wine bar with delicious Roman speciality dishes.
EUR45, 1h30m
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Day 7: Vatican & Departure

Rome, Italy on May 8, 2025

7:45am

Breakfast at Sciascia Caffè 1919

Early coffee and pastries near the Vatican to start your day.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:30am

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Pre-book tickets for an early entrance to avoid crowds and admire Renaissance masterpieces and Michelangelo’s ceiling. Opens at 9am.
EUR25, 3h

12:00pm

St. Peter's Basilica

Visit the largest church in the world and climb the dome for unforgettable views. Entry is free, dome climbing costs EUR10.
EUR0/10, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Arlù

Relish genuine Roman cuisine just a short walk from the Vatican, open till 3pm.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Leisure time or Departure

Use this time for last-minute shopping, a relaxed walk or travel preparations depending on your departure schedule.
Varies, Varies
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