Affordable Romantic Italy: A Budget-Friendly 5-Day Couple's Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Rome

Rome, Italy on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pastificio Guerra

Enjoy an inexpensive yet authentic Italian breakfast featuring fresh pastries and espresso at this popular spot, open from 7:00 AM.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit the Colosseum (Exterior and Roman Forum nearby)

Explore Rome’s iconic ancient amphitheater area from the outside for free, appreciating its grandeur and rich history without entry fees.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Pantheon and Piazza Navona Walk

Stroll through these historic piazzas and visit the free-entry Pantheon, famous for its impressive dome and history.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ai Balestrari

Taste delicious Roman-style pizza and pasta at a cozy trattoria that offers budget-friendly options, open 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Visit these iconic landmarks on foot, enjoying the lively atmosphere with no entry fee.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Relax and Explore Trastevere

Wander the charming streets of the Trastevere neighborhood, a lovely area to soak up local vibe and enjoy a budget-friendly gelato.
EUR4, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Dar Poeta

Enjoy affordable, authentic Roman pizza in this popular pizzeria in Trastevere, known for quality at low prices (open till 11 PM).
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 2: Artistic Florence

Florence, Italy on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Train to Florence

Catch an early regional train from Rome Termini to Florence Santa Maria Novella to save on costs, approx. 1.5 hours.
EUR25, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Start your day with affordable fresh pastries and coffee at this well-loved local bakery, open from 7:00 AM.
EUR5, 0h30m

10:30am

Explore the Duomo Complex (Exterior and Baptistery)

Admire the famous cathedral’s intricate facade and visit the Baptistère di San Giovanni, with inexpensive entry; avoid climbing to save budget.
EUR10, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Dine on traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita or pasta at this bustling and budget-friendly eatery open 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
EUR18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Ponte Vecchio and Arno River Walk

Stroll along the historic bridge and riverbanks, perfect free activity for couples who love scenic views and photo moments.
Free, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Piazza della Signoria and Loggia dei Lanzi

Explore this open-air museum with sculptures and lively atmosphere, great for art lovers on a budget (free access).
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Boboli Gardens (Optional)

If budget allows, enjoy the lush gardens with a small entry fee; otherwise, visit nearby park areas for free relaxation.
EUR10, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Prosciutteria

Enjoy budget-friendly Italian charcuterie boards and sandwiches with local wine in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 3: Enchanting Venice

Venice, Italy on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Train to Venice

Take an early regional train from Florence to Venice Santa Lucia station for budget travel, around 2 hours.
EUR25, 2h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Savor Venetian pastries and espresso at this traditional cafe open from 7:30 AM, ideal for budget travelers.
EUR6, 0h30m

10:00am

Explore St. Mark’s Square and Basilica (Exterior)

Walk around the iconic square, enjoy the architecture for free, and opt for free entry inside the Basilica if visiting outside busy hours.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit the Rialto Bridge and Market

Experience vibrant local market stalls and admire the historic bridge, a must-see and free to roam.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria al Squero

Enjoy cicchetti—Venetian tapas—and affordable wine, in a laid-back spot near the canals, open 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walking Tour of Cannaregio District

Explore one of Venice’s charming less touristy neighborhoods on foot, enjoying picturesque canals and small shops.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Budget Gondola Experience - Shared Gondola Ride

Split the cost with other travelers for a shared gondola ride to enjoy Venice’s beauty romantically but affordably.
EUR20, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Al Gazzettino

Tuck into delightful Venetian dishes at reasonable prices, popular with locals and tourists alike.
EUR22, 1h30m
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Day 4: Scenic Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Cinque Terre (via train to La Spezia then local train)

Take a train from Venice to La Spezia, then use the Cinque Terre train pass to move between villages efficiently and affordably.
EUR40, 5h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre

Enjoy fresh seafood with a sea view on a budget at this local favorite restaurant.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hiking Trail from Vernazza to Monterosso (Blue Trail)

Experience stunning coastal views and the charming villages between Vernazza and Monterosso; the trail is free to access and well marked.
EUR7 for trail pass, 3h0m

5:30pm

Relax on Monterosso Beach

Unwind on the beautiful sandy beach and enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance, perfect for a romantic evening.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Miky

Dine affordably on Ligurian cuisine with generous portions in a cozy setting.
EUR22, 1h30m
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Day 5: Modern Milan

Milan, Italy on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Train to Milan

Travel by regional train from La Spezia to Milan, balancing cost and time for a budget-friendly arrival.
EUR30, 3h0m

11:00am

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Grab fresh pastries and coffee at this popular bakery near Milan’s center, open from 7:00 AM.
EUR5, 0h30m

11:30am

Visit the Duomo di Milano (Exterior and Rooftop optional)

Admire the stunning Gothic architecture for free outside; rooftop access is affordable with advance booking for panoramic views.
EUR15 for rooftop, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Taste budget-friendly, delicious panzerotti—a Milanese street food staple—in a no-frills setting.
EUR8, 0h45m

2:00pm

Explore Sforza Castle (Exterior and Park)

Walk the castle grounds and surrounding park free of charge, enjoying green spaces and historic architecture.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Wander Brera District

Experience local art galleries, streets, and lively cafés, perfect for budget-friendly romantic strolls without set costs.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ratanà

Enjoy affordable modern Milanese dishes in a cozy yet stylish atmosphere, a great final dinner for couples on a budget.
EUR25, 1h30m
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