Affordable 10-Day Italy Itinerary: Exploring Bologna, Florence & Tuscany without a Car

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Bologna

Bologna, Italy on June 12, 2025

10:00am

Arrival and check-in

Arrive in Bologna from Timisoara via flight and transit, check into a centrally located budget hotel or hostel for convenience and savings.
EUR50, 1h

11:30am

Piazza Maggiore

Walk around Bologna’s central square, known for medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere — perfect introduction to the city.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria di Via Serra

Enjoy affordable, authentic Bolognese cuisine with traditional pasta dishes like tagliatelle al ragù in a cozy setting.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Torre degli Asinelli

Climb this iconic leaning tower for panoramic views over Bologna — open daily from 9am to 7pm.
EUR5, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Quadrilatero Market

Browse this historic market area for local food products, crafts, and souvenirs; great spot for an afternoon stroll.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Osteria dell’Orsa

Dine on traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes in a lively and affordable osteria with good local wine options.
EUR20, 1.5h
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Day 2: Bologna History & Culture

Bologna, Italy on June 13, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Caffè Terzi

Start your day with excellent coffee and fresh pastries at this renowned coffee shop open from 7am.
EUR6, 0.5h

9:30am

Basilica di San Petronio

Visit this grand basilica featuring Gothic architecture and interesting interior art; opens from 9am.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Museo della Storia di Bologna

Discover Bologna’s rich history in this interactive museum located in the medieval Palazzo Pepoli; open 10am-6pm.
EUR7, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sfoglia Rina

Sample fresh handmade pasta and light lunch options at this popular and affordable pasta spot.
EUR12, 1h

2:30pm

Wander through Giardini Margherita

Relax in Bologna’s main public park, enjoy scenic paths and a peaceful environment for a few hours.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Drogheria della Rosa

Experience a cozy dinner with traditional recipes and an impressive wine list in a romantic setting.
EUR25, 1.5h
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Day 3: Bologna to Florence

Bologna to Florence, Italy on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Alimentari e Vineria Calabri

Grab simple and tasty breakfast sandwiches with coffee before heading to the train station.
EUR7, 0.5h

9:30am

Train to Florence

Take a direct train from Bologna to Florence, which takes about 35-40 minutes; book in advance for best prices.
EUR15, 0.75h

11:00am

Check-in to accommodation

Settle into a budget-friendly guesthouse or hostel near Florence city center for easy walking access.
EUR50, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Taste hearty Tuscan dishes in this rustic and affordable restaurant popular with locals and tourists.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Florence Historic Center

Visit Piazza del Duomo including the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Giotto’s Campanile — all outdoor viewing is free, interiors require tickets (approx. EUR18).
EUR18, 2.5h

4:00pm

Walk along Ponte Vecchio

Stroll across this iconic medieval bridge known for its jewelry shops and charming views over the Arno River.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at La Buchetta Food & Wine

Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring Tuscan specialties and great local wine at reasonable prices.
EUR25, 1.5h
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Day 4: Florence Art & Museums

Florence, Italy on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ditta Artigianale

Fuel up with artisanal coffee and pastries in this popular specialty coffee shop open from 8am.
EUR8, 0.5h

9:00am

Uffizi Gallery

Visit one of the world’s most famous art museums featuring Renaissance masterpieces; book timed tickets in advance. Open 8:15am-6:50pm (closed Mondays).
EUR20, 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nerbone Mercato Centrale

Eat affordable Tuscan street food and local specialties inside Florence’s bustling Central Market.
EUR10, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo’s David and other Renaissance artworks; open 8:15am-6:50pm, booking tickets recommended.
EUR16, 1.5h

3:30pm

Piazzale Michelangelo

Take bus or a scenic walk to this overlook for stunning panoramic views of Florence, especially beautiful at sunset.
EUR1.50 (bus), 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Relish authentic Tuscan dishes at this small, budget-friendly eatery known for excellent flavors.
EUR22, 1.5h
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Day 5: Tuscany Day Trip: Siena

Siena, Italy on June 16, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at accommodation or bakery nearby

Grab a quick Italian pastry and coffee before your day trip departure.
EUR5, 0.3h

8:30am

Bus to Siena from Florence

Take a direct bus from Florence to Siena (approx. 1.5 hours), departure from Firenze bus station.
EUR11, 1.5h

10:15am

Explore Siena Historical Center

Visit Piazza del Campo, the stunning Siena Cathedral, and enjoy the medieval atmosphere in this UNESCO site.
Cathedral: EUR8, Piazza del Campo: Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Osteria Le Logge

Enjoy tasty Tuscan cuisine in a charming and moderately priced trattoria close to the Cathedral.
EUR22, 1.5h

3:30pm

Visit Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

Discover the art and history related to Siena Cathedral; open until 7pm.
EUR10, 1h

5:00pm

Return bus to Florence

Catch an evening bus back to Florence; buses run frequently until early evening.
EUR11, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner near accommodation

Opt for a casual dinner with pizza or pasta at a local inexpensive pizzeria in Florence.
EUR15, 1h
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Day 6: Florence Free Day & Shopping

Florence, Italy on June 17, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Giorgio

Treat yourself to fresh pastries and coffee at this popular local bakery open from 7am.
EUR6, 0.5h

9:00am

Visit Boboli Gardens

Roam expansive Renaissance gardens behind Palazzo Pitti; open from 8:15am to sunset. Entry is affordable and the gardens offer great views and relaxation.
EUR10, 2h

11:30am

Walk around Oltrarno neighborhood

Explore artisans’ workshops, vintage shops, and local markets south of the Arno River for unique souvenirs.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at I’ Girone De’ Ghiotti

Enjoy delicious sandwiches and panini with local ingredients at a budget-friendly spot.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Santa Croce Church

Discover the famous burial place of Michelangelo and Galileo with beautiful frescoes; open 9:30am-5:30pm.
EUR8, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Sostanza

Dine on traditional Florentine dishes like butter chicken in a historic and authentic setting with moderate prices.
EUR25, 1.5h
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Day 7: Tuscany Countryside: San Gimignano

San Gimignano, Italy on June 18, 2025

7:30am

Quick breakfast locally

Grab coffee and a light pastry before starting your day trip.
EUR5, 0.3h

8:30am

Bus to San Gimignano

Take a bus from Florence to San Gimignano, approximately 1.5-2 hours via a connection in Poggibonsi.
EUR12, 2h

10:30am

Explore San Gimignano town center

Famous for its medieval towers, visit the town’s charming squares, churches, and climb Torre Grossa for views (open 10am-7pm).
EUR9, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at La Mandragola

Taste Tuscan specialties in a hidden-away spot offering affordable traditional dishes.
EUR18, 1.5h

3:30pm

Gelateria Dondoli

Try award-winning gelato at this famous gelateria, a perfect cool treat before heading back.
EUR4, 0.5h

4:15pm

Return bus to Florence

Travel back to Florence by bus, arriving in evening for dinner.
EUR12, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Budget Pizzeria Near Accommodation

Enjoy a casual and inexpensive pizza dinner after a full day of exploring.
EUR15, 1h
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Day 8: Florence Museums & Departure Prep

Florence, Italy on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Gilli

Enjoy a classic Florentine breakfast with pastries and coffee at this elegant historic cafe.
EUR10, 0.5h

9:00am

Visit Palazzo Vecchio

Explore Florence’s historic town hall, including art-filled rooms and the tower (open 9am-7pm).
EUR12, 1.5h

11:00am

Walk and shop in San Lorenzo Market

Shop for souvenirs, leather goods, and local products in this lively market area.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Mercato Centrale food court

Try multiple food stalls offering diverse, reasonably priced Tuscan and Italian specialties.
EUR12, 1h

2:30pm

Relax and pack

Head back to accommodation for rest and packing in preparation for departure.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at ZàZà Ristorante

Have a final Italian dinner in a lively and moderately priced restaurant loved by both locals and tourists.
EUR25, 1.5h
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Day 9: Return or Buffer Day

Florence, Italy on June 20, 2025

Morning

Optional extra sightseeing or rest day

Use this day flexibly for anything missed, shopping, or just relaxing in Florence before departure. Consider a half-day to Fiesole by bus for views and archaeology.
Bus EUR3, 4h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local café

Choose any preferred café near your accommodation to refuel on your last full day.
EUR10, 1h

Evening

Pack and rest

Prepare for your departure the next day or relax to enjoy your last evening in Florence.
Free, 3h
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Day 10: Departure

Florence, Italy on June 21, 2025

Morning

Breakfast and check-out

Have a relaxed breakfast near your accommodation before heading to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
EUR7, 1h

10:00am

Travel to airport

Use public transport or airport shuttle to reach Florence or Bologna airport for your flight back to Timisoara.
EUR6, 1h
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