Ultimate 12-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Italy: Milan, Florence, Naples, and Rome

Day 1: Modern Milan Introduction

Milan, Italy on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Start your day with fresh Italian pastries and cappuccino at this local bakery known for its authentic Milanese flavors.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Explore Milan’s iconic Gothic cathedral; don’t miss the rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Enjoy famous panzerotti, a traditional Milanese stuffed pastry, perfect for a quick and delicious lunch near the Duomo.
EUR8, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through this historic shopping arcade, admire luxury boutiques, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Sforza Castle

Visit this medieval fortress housing museums with art collections, historical artifacts, and peaceful gardens. Open 9:00am-5:30pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Masuelli San Marco

Savor traditional Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese in an authentic and cozy atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 2: Art & Canals

Milan, Italy on June 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pavé

Enjoy artisanal breads and freshly brewed espresso at this trendy café renowned in Milan.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

Discover one of Milan’s most important art galleries housing Italian Renaissance masterpieces. Open 8:30am-7:15pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch on Darsena Canal

Relax with a light lunch at a café along the picturesque Darsena canal district, a lively area with bars and street art.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tour Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper

Book ahead to see the renowned masterpiece at Santa Maria delle Grazie. Entry is strictly timed; visit allowed in 15-minute groups. Open 8:15am-7:00pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk through Navigli district

Explore this charming canal district full of shops, art galleries, and cafés; ideal to soak in Milan’s bohemian vibe.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria del Binari

Enjoy authentic Milanese and Lombard cuisine in a rustic setting close to the Navigli area.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 3: Milan to Florence

Milan to Florence, Italy on June 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at NYX Hotel Milano

Have a quick hotel breakfast to prepare for the day of travel.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Train from Milan to Florence

Take a high-speed train from Milan Centrale to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, approximately 2 hours. Trains operate frequently.
EUR50, 2h0m

11:00am

Check-in at Florence accommodation

Settle into your Florence accommodation to relax and refresh before exploring the city.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Savor traditional Tuscan cuisine at this popular eatery, known for its fresh pasta and local specialties.
EUR20, 1h15m

2:00pm

Visit Accademia Gallery

Home to Michelangelo’s David, this gallery highlights Renaissance art and sculpture. Open 8:15am-6:50pm Tuesday-Sunday.
EUR16, 2h0m

4:30pm

Walk to Piazza del Duomo

Admire Florence Cathedral, Baptistery, and Giotto’s Campanile exterior and atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante La Giostra

End your day with refined Tuscan dishes and an intimate ambiance favored by locals and visitors alike.
EUR50, 1h30m

Day 4: Renaissance Art & Gardens

Florence, Italy on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffe Gilli

Enjoy pastries and espresso at a historic café located in Piazza della Repubblica, open from 7am.
EUR15, 1h0m

9:30am

Uffizi Gallery

Visit one of the world’s greatest art museums to see masterpieces from Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and others. Open 8:15am-6:50pm.
EUR20, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Sample a variety of fresh local and international foods at this vibrant market location in Florence's city center.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Boboli Gardens Walk

Explore these expansive Renaissance gardens behind Pitti Palace with sculptures, fountains, and stunning views over Florence. Open 8:15am-sunset.
EUR10, 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

Enjoy panoramic sunset views over Florence's skyline; a perfect photo spot and peaceful end to the afternoon.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria 4 Leoni

Known for rustic Tuscan fare and wonderful ambiance in the Oltrarno district, great for trying bistecca alla Fiorentina.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 5: History & Markets

Florence, Italy on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ditta Artigianale

Enjoy specialty coffee and artisanal breakfast fare in a trendy café environment.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Palazzo Vecchio

Explore Florence’s historic town hall with its grand halls, frescoes, and fortress-like exterior. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR12, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at All’Antico Vinaio

Try Florence’s famous schiacciata sandwiches made with fresh bread and local ingredients, popular with locals and tourists.
EUR10, 1h0m

1:30pm

Shopping at San Lorenzo Market

Browse leather goods, souvenirs, and local artisan crafts in this bustling open-air market near the church of San Lorenzo.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at Hotel or explore local shops

Take time to refresh or wander lesser-known artisan shops and boutiques in Florence’s historic center.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Il Latini

Experience a lively and traditional Tuscan dining experience focusing on communal eating and hearty dishes.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 6: Florence to Naples

Florence to Naples, Italy on June 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to prepare for the longer train journey ahead.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Train from Florence to Naples

Ride a high-speed train to Napoli Centrale; journey lasts approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.
EUR60, 3h15m

11:30am

Check-in at San Francesco Al Monte Hotel

Settle into your hotel with views over the Bay of Naples in this historic yet modern accommodation.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sorbillo

Taste one of Naples’ legendary pizzas at this famed pizzeria, widely regarded as among the best in the city.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Naples National Archaeological Museum

Discover Pompeii and Herculaneum artifacts in one of Italy’s top archaeological museums. Open 9:00am-7:30pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Lungomare and Castel dell’Ovo

Enjoy seaside views and visit historic castle ruins along Naples’ waterfront promenade in the early evening.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Cantina dei Lazzari

Sample traditional Neapolitan dishes in a cozy setting known for fresh seafood and local wines.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 7: Pompeii Exploration

Naples, Italy on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start early with breakfast onsite before the Pompeii excursion.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Day trip to Pompeii Archaeological Site

Spend the morning exploring the remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii; open 9:00am-7:30pm. Guided tours recommended.
EUR18, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch near Pompeii

Eat at a local trattoria offering classic Campania dishes close to the archaeological park entrance.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Return to Naples and visit Castel Nuovo

Tour Naples’ medieval fortress and museum, an important symbol of the city history. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR6, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore Spaccanapoli street

Walk along the historic narrow street full of artisan shops, cafés, and churches to absorb local culture.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Tandem Ragù

Try the famous Neapolitan ragù, a slow-cooked meat sauce, in a casual yet highly regarded restaurant.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 8: Naples to Rome

Naples to Rome, Italy on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before transferring to Rome.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Train from Naples to Rome

Take a high-speed train to Roma Termini, about 1 hour 10 minutes travel time.
EUR30, 1h10m

9:30am

Check-in at A Roma Lifestyle Hotel

Drop off luggage and freshen up at your centrally located Rome hotel.
Varies, 1h0m

11:00am

Visit Colosseum and Roman Forum

Explore Rome’s iconic ancient amphitheater and the ruins of the Roman Forum nearby. Open 8:30am-7:00pm.
EUR18, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Dine near the Forum with classic Roman dishes like carbonara and saltimbocca.
EUR40, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll to Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Enjoy the lively atmosphere and stunning Baroque fountains and stairs, ideal for photo opportunities.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Roscioli

Experience Roman culinary delights paired with excellent wines in a chic deli-restaurant setting.
EUR50, 1h30m

Day 9: Vatican and Trastevere

Rome, Italy on July 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for a day packed with sightseeing.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Marvel at one of the world’s finest art collections and Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Open 9:00am-6:00pm (last entry 4:00pm).
EUR30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pizzarium Bonci

Enjoy gourmet Roman-style pizza by the slice near the Vatican.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Tour the world’s largest church, admire the art and architecture; Dome climb optional. Open 7:00am-7:00pm.
Free; Dome climb EUR10, 2h0m

4:30pm

Explore Trastevere neighborhood

Wander this charming, lively quarter with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and quaint piazzas.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Savor traditional Roman dishes in an intimate Trastevere trattoria beloved by locals.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 10: Ancient Rome & Shopping

Rome, Italy on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè

Enjoy arguably Rome’s best espresso and pastries near the Pantheon.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Visit the ancient Pantheon and then walk to lively Piazza Navona to appreciate its fountains and street artists.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Shopping along Via del Corso

Browse shops ranging from high street fashion to luxury boutiques in this central shopping street.
Varies, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Osteria dell’Ingegno

Savor modern Italian cuisine in a stylish setting just off Piazza Navona.
EUR35, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Capitoline Museums

Delve into ancient Roman artifacts and Renaissance art atop Capitoline Hill. Open 9:30am-7:30pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

6:00pm

Relax at Piazza del Popolo

Unwind at this grand piazza surrounded by churches and gates, great for people watching and photos.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Felice a Testaccio

Experience quintessential Roman dishes with a focus on authentic flavors in the Testaccio neighborhood.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 11: Leisure & Hidden Gems

Rome, Italy on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Fondi

Enjoy a quiet breakfast with good coffee in the Monti district.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Basilica di San Clemente

Explore this multi-layered basilica illustrating Rome’s complex history with excavations open to visitors. Open 9:00am-12:00pm and 3:00pm-6:00pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Jewish Ghetto

Discover rich Roman Jewish history and taste local specialties like fried artichokes.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nonna Betta

Sample Jewish-Roman specialties in a warm, authentic setting in the Ghetto.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Afternoon at Villa Borghese Gardens

Enjoy one of Rome’s most beautiful parks with ponds, sculptures, and the Galleria Borghese nearby (advance booking needed for gallery).
EUR13 for gardens, gallery EUR20, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Glass Hostaria

Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Trastevere offering creative and contemporary Italian dishes.
EUR70, 2h0m

Day 12: Departure Day

Rome, Italy on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final Italian breakfast relaxing at the hotel.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Leisurely morning packing and stroll

Spend your last morning getting ready and perhaps a short walk nearby your hotel to soak in Rome one last time.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Check-out and transfer to airport

Travel to Rome Fiumicino or Ciampino Airport depending on your departure flight.
EUR50 for taxi or shuttle, 1h0m