10-Day Italy Itinerary: Rome & Positano in July

Day 1: Arrival in Rome & Leisurely Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Rome and check into your accommodation. Take time to settle in and refresh.

Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxed walk around Piazza Navona and visit the nearby Pantheon.

Evening: Dine al fresco at a traditional trattoria near Piazza di Spagna and take an evening stroll to the Trevi Fountain.

Day 2: Ancient Rome Exploration

Morning: Visit the iconic Colosseum with a guided tour to learn its rich history.

Afternoon: Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, discovering the heart of ancient Rome.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic cuisine.

Day 3: Vatican City Day

Morning: Tour the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, early to avoid the crowds.

Afternoon: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and, if desired, climb to the dome for panoramic views of Rome.

Evening: Relax with a gelato near Piazza San Pietro and enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 4: Rome’s Art & Squares

Morning: Explore the Galleria Borghese and its beautiful gardens.

Afternoon: Wander through Piazza del Popolo and visit the stunning Spanish Steps.

Evening: Experience Rome’s nightlife with drinks and dining around Piazza Navona.

Day 5: Day Trip to Tivoli

Morning: Travel to Tivoli to visit Villa d'Este with its enchanting gardens and fountains.

Afternoon: Explore Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa), the vast Roman archaeological complex.

Evening: Return to Rome and enjoy a quiet dinner near your hotel.

Day 6: Travel to Positano & Initial Exploration

Morning: Depart Rome and transfer to Positano via train and bus or private transfer along the stunning Amalfi Coast.

Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax on Positano’s Spiaggia Grande beach.

Evening: Dine at a seaside restaurant sampling fresh seafood with views of the cliffside village.

Day 7: Amalfi Coast Adventure

Morning: Take a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast, stopping at hidden coves and grottos.

Afternoon: Visit the charming town of Amalfi, including the Amalfi Cathedral.

Evening: Return to Positano for a sunset aperitivo overlooking the sea.

Day 8: Relaxation and Local Culture

Morning: Enjoy a relaxing morning at Fornillo Beach, a quieter alternative to Spiaggia Grande.

Afternoon: Wander the quaint streets of Positano, visiting local artisan shops and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

Evening: Attend a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Italian dishes, followed by dinner.

Day 9: Day Trip to Capri

Morning: Take a ferry to Capri and visit the famous Blue Grotto.

Afternoon: Explore Villa Jovis and stroll through the Gardens of Augustus.

Evening: Return to Positano and enjoy a final romantic dinner overlooking the Mediterranean.

Day 10: Departure

Morning: Last morning stroll through Positano’s streets and perhaps a final coffee by the sea.

Afternoon: Transfer from Positano to Naples or Rome airport for departure.

Evening: Safe travels home or onward journey.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Colosseum & Roman Forum: 4 hours, €18
• Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica: 5 hours, €30
• Galleria Borghese: 2 hours, €15
• Villa d'Este & Villa Adriana (day trip): 7 hours, €25 (transport + entry)
• Train & bus Rome to Positano: 5-6 hours, €40
• Boat tour Amalfi Coast: 3 hours, €50
• Cooking class in Positano: 3 hours, €70
• Ferry & Blue Grotto Capri trip: 6 hours, €60

Total Estimated Cost: €308

Tips

For travelers wanting to extend the trip, consider adding additional days in Rome to explore lesser-known neighborhoods such as Testaccio or Ostia Antica, or extra days in Positano to visit nearby towns like Ravello or Praiano. For those preferring to reduce the itinerary, focus on either Rome or Positano alone, cutting the trip to 5-6 days to immerse fully without rushing through both destinations.