6-Day Budget-Friendly France and Italy Itinerary Exploring History and Scenic Landscapes

Day 1: Paris History & Culture

Paris, France on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Enjoy a traditional Parisian breakfast with affordable options like croissants and café au lait at this iconic café.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral

Explore the remarkable Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral, a symbol of Parisian history dating back to the 12th century. Entry to the cathedral is free, but the tower climb has a small fee.
EUR0, 1h0m

11:00am

Stroll along the Seine and Latin Quarter

Walk through the charming Latin Quarter and along the Seine River banks to soak up Parisian atmosphere and view beautiful historic sites and bookshops.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Petit Pontoise

Dine on classic French dishes at affordable prices in a cozy setting near the Latin Quarter.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Louvre Museum Visit

Explore the world's largest art museum and historic monument. Buy a timed ticket in advance for budget-friendly entry and access to priceless artworks including the Mona Lisa. Open until 6:00pm.
EUR17, 3h0m

5:30pm

Walk to Montmartre

Head north to Montmartre and admire panoramic views of Paris from the steps of Sacré-Cœur Basilica without cost.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Refuge des Fondus

Experience budget-friendly and fun cheese or meat fondue in a lively Montmartre restaurant popular with locals and travelers.
EUR25, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 2: Lyon History & Landscape

Lyon, France on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Boulangerie du Palais

Grab fresh pastries and coffee from this local bakery before exploring Lyon.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Vieux Lyon and Roman Theatres

Discover cobbled streets of the Renaissance district and visit the ancient Roman theatres on Fourvière Hill for a glimpse into Lyon’s historic past. Both are free to walk around, theatres have modest entry fees if visiting inside.
EUR5, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Climb up to this stunning basilica with panoramic views over Lyon and inside beautiful mosaics and architecture, free entry.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Try affordable gourmet food stalls featuring local Lyon specialties such as quenelles and sausages.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Parc de la Tête d’Or

Visit one of France’s largest urban parks with a lake, botanical gardens, and a free zoo.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along the Rhône River

Stroll along the scenic riverbanks enjoying views and affordable cafés.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Café Comptoir Abel

Budget-friendly traditional Lyonnais meals in a historic bistro, offering hearty dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR20, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 3: Nice Scenic & Historic

Nice, France on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at La Femme du Boulanger

Enjoy fresh, simple French breakfast pastries and coffee at this charming bakery.
EUR9, 0h45m

9:00am

Promenade des Anglais

Walk the famous seafront promenade, admiring views of the Mediterranean coast, beaches, and gardens for free.
Free, 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Wander narrow lanes filled with colorful buildings, markets, and historic churches like the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Marché aux Fleurs

Sample affordable local Niçoise cuisine at market stalls or nearby cafés.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Climb or take the elevator up to this hill park for panoramic views over Nice and the bay; entrance is free.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit the Matisse Museum

Explore Henri Matisse’s works in a modestly priced museum showcasing his colorful paintings. Open 10:00am - 6:00pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lou Pilha Leva

Enjoy budget-friendly authentic Niçoise specialties like socca and pissaladière in the vibrant old town.
EUR18, 1h0m
View Hotels

Day 4: Genoa Historic Port

Genoa, Italy on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tripoli

Start the day with affordable Italian pastries and espresso at this popular bakery near the train station.
EUR7, 0h45m

8:30am

Explore Genoa Old Town

Stroll through narrow medieval streets, enjoying sights like the Piazza de Ferrari and Via Garibaldi’s palaces; this area is free to explore on foot.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Galata Museo del Mare

Discover Italy’s largest maritime museum with engaging exhibits on Genoa's seafaring history. Open 9:30am - 6:30pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria da Maria

Savor authentic Ligurian dishes like trofie al pesto at this budget-friendly restaurant known for homestyle cooking.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:00pm

Walk along the Porto Antico

Enjoy the renovated old port area with views of the sea, boats, and modern attractions including free open spaces ideal for relaxing.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo

Explore this striking Gothic and Romanesque style cathedral at no cost.
Free, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ostello Bello Genova

Enjoy affordable and hearty Italian meals at this popular hostel’s open restaurant welcoming travelers on a budget.
EUR15, 1h0m
View Hotels

Day 5: Cinque Terre Landscapes

Cinque Terre, Italy on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local bakery in Monterosso

Grab fresh pastries and coffee to fuel your day hiking between villages.
EUR6, 0h30m

8:00am

Hiking Cinque Terre Trail

Take the scenic and historic coastal hiking trail connecting Monterosso, Vernazza, and Corniglia. The trail offers breathtaking landscapes and village views. The trekking pass costs about EUR7.50.
EUR7.5, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch in Vernazza

Enjoy fresh, budget-friendly seafood or pesto pasta at trattorias overlooking the harbor.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Corniglia

Walk around this charming hilltop village appreciating Ligurian architecture and stunning sea views. Free to explore.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Train to Manarola and visit village

Take a short regional train to Manarola, enjoy exploring quaint streets and harborside views with no entry cost.
EUR4 (train), 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to Monterosso

Head back by train to Monterosso for dinner and rest.
EUR4 (train), 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Miky

Opt for a budget-friendly meal featuring fresh local seafood and Ligurian dishes in Monterosso.
EUR25, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 6: Florence Art & History

Florence, Italy on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Enjoy Italian espresso and sweet pastries in a local bakery known for quality at low prices.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit the Duomo and Baptistery

Explore Florence's iconic cathedral, climb the dome for panoramic views (entry fees apply for the dome), and see the stunning mosaic ceiling of the Baptistery. Open 10:00am - 5:00pm.
EUR20, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk to Ponte Vecchio and explore artisan shops

Stroll across the historic bridge lined with jewelers and art dealers, free to explore and photograph.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Taste affordable traditional Tuscan cuisine including ribollita in this beloved budget trattoria.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Uffizi Gallery Visit

Discover Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci in Italy’s most famous art gallery. Book tickets in advance. Open until 6:30pm.
EUR20, 3h0m

5:30pm

Relax in Boboli Gardens

Enjoy beautiful gardens with impressive landscaping and views over Florence. Entry is reasonably priced, perfect for a scenic end to your trip.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Ménagère

Dine affordably on Tuscan flavors in this stylish yet budget-friendly restaurant blending modern and traditional cuisine.
EUR25, 1h30m
View Hotels