Italy itinerary: Explore the country in 10 days

Italy dazzles with millennia-old ruins, artistic masterpieces, and a culinary tradition that turns every meal into an unforgettable event. 

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, we have the perfect guide for discovering the country’s most iconic cities and landmarks. Walk through centuries of history in Rome, admire Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, and glide through Venice’s winding waterways. With the right plan, it’s not just a trip. It’s the Italian experience you’ve always imagined. 

Here are the top sights:

While this Italy itinerary covers the highlights, no two travelers are the same. A travel advisor can help transform your Italy trip into a personalized journey tailored to your pace, style, and priorities.

What’s the best way to explore Italy?

Italy offers plenty of ways to get around, depending on your travel style and destination. From high-speed trains to scenic drives, here are some of the best ways to see Italy:

• Train travel: This is our top choice for getting around Italy. The high-speed rail networks (Trenitalia and Italo) are fast and convenient, connecting Italy’s must-see cities without the stress of driving or flying.
• Car rental: A car is great for day trips through regions like Tuscany and Sicily. But driving and parking in cities like Rome and Florence can add unexpected stress to your trip, so you might want to opt for public transit there instead.
• Domestic flights: Flying can save time, but the hassle of security lines, transfers, and delays often adds more hassle than it's worth.
• Guided tours or private drivers: Private drivers and guided tours can be a great option for day trips, wine tastings, or exploring areas off the beaten path. But because of their higher cost, they’re often best reserved for specific excursions.

For this trip, train travel is the way to go. It’s a comfortable, scenic way to see each city without the stress of driving or catching flights. Your travel advisor can help you navigate schedules, choose the best routes, and book seats with ideal departure times.

What’s the best 10-day Italian vacation itinerary?

Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, deciding what to see in Italy can feel like a challenge — with so much to explore, it’s easy to get lost in the options. Our Italy itinerary makes sure you don’t miss the must-sees, with something for every type of traveler. 

Here’s how we’d plan our dream Italy trip.

3 days in Rome

In Rome, ancient history meets modern indulgence — think iconic landmarks by day, and long dinners in candlelit piazzas by night. Spending three days in Rome is the perfect amount of time to see its top landmarks and get a feel for the culture.

To get the most out of your time in this city, stay in central Rome, such as Trastevere or Prati, where the best hotels offer lovely rooftop restaurants and luxurious spas.

Day 1

Begin your visit with a guided tour of the Colosseum that brings its gladiator past to life, then wander through the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a glimpse into ancient history.

As the sun sets, wander slowly back through the historic center and enjoy your first aperitivo in a lively square like Campo de’ Fiori or Piazza Navona.

Day 2

On your second day, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Vatican City. Marvel at St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, home to some of the most awe-inspiring art and architecture in the world. 

When you return to the city center, don't forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain as you head to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in the city.

Day 3

For day three, visit the bustling Piazza Navona, check out the Campo de' Fiori market, and end with a sunset at Villa Borghese for the most spectacular views.

2 days in Florence

Florence is where art and history come alive, and every street feels like a museum. Our favorite area to stay is in the elegant Centro Storico — the city’s historic center and most prestigious shopping destination, steps away from the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.

Day 4

Start by visiting the iconic Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) and climbing to the top for sweeping views of terracotta rooftops and the rolling Tuscan hills beyond.

After the Duomo, head to the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's famed David sculpture. Standing over 17 feet tall, it’s even more powerful in person. From there, take a leisurely walk to the Ponte Vecchio to browse the jewelry shops and look over the Arno River.

Day 5

Step inside the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Raphael, and then spend the afternoon exploring the Boboli Gardens for a peaceful escape. You can also hop to the Piazza della Signoria to admire the marble sculptures and the Palazzo Vecchio. 

At the end of the day, take a sunset walk along the Piazzale Michelangelo for one of the best views of the Florentine skyline (made even better with gelato in hand).

2 days in Venice

Venice is romantic, mysterious, and full of picture-perfect scenery. We suggest staying in San Marco for its iconic views and easy access to vaporetto stops and gondolas, or try Dorsoduro for its art galleries and quiet luxury.

Here’s how to soak up the city’s best destinations.

Day 6

Begin your tour of Venice with a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica and a climb to the top of St. Mark’s Campanile for stunning views of the Grand Canal. 

Next, wander through the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venetian power. As twilight sets in, slow things down with a gondola ride, passing lantern-lit windows and weathered facades that bring Venice’s history to life.

Day 7

On day two, stroll the lesser-known neighborhoods of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro. There, you’ll find quiet streets, quaint cafés, and inspiring museums like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. 

If there’s time, visit the colorful island of Burano. It’s just a short boat ride from the city center and is popular for its vibrant houses and lace-making tradition. 

End your trip to Venice with a relaxing walk on the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), and stop for a drink at one of the canal-side cafés to soak up the sun.

2 days in Verona

No Italy itinerary would be complete without a stop in the enchanting city of Verona. Its blend of Roman ruins, cobblestone lanes, and Shakespearean romance makes it a perfect way to start wrapping up your Italian adventure. Try to stay in Città Antica, the city’s historic center, where you can wander charming streets, unique boutiques, and the best of Verona’s romantic appeal.

Day 8

Start day eight of your trip with a visit to Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), where travelers leave love notes beneath the balcony linked to Shakespeare’s tragic lovers.

Then, check out the eclectic Piazza delle Erbe, where market stalls overflow with fresh cheeses, wildflower honey, and handmade leather goods. Later, head out to the ancient Verona Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters still in use today.

Day 9

For your last day in Verona, wander across the Ponte Pietra and climb up San Pietro Hill to view the city’s rooftops and the Adige River. Make time to explore the elegant shops and local eateries along Via Giuseppe Mazzini, and enjoy an al fresco lunch or spritz in Piazza Bra.

1 day in Milan

To close out your Italian adventure, spend your last night in beautiful Milan. In just one day, you can experience the city’s rich history and sense of style. Stay in the Centro Storico for access to luxury boutiques, authentic fine dining, and iconic Milanese architecture.

Day 10

Start with a visit to the famed Duomo di Milano, where you can climb to the rooftop for sweeping views of Milan — and, on a clear day, the distant Alps.

Next, drop by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to explore one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. From there, visit Sforza Castle, a historic fortress with beautiful courtyards and museums. And don't miss the chance to see da Vinci's “The Last Supper” at Santa Maria delle Grazie — tickets are limited and notoriously tricky to book, but a travel advisor can help you lock them in.

In the afternoon, wander around the chic Brera district, known for its art galleries, cafés, and lively energy. Round out your day with an aperitivo in the Navigli district, where you can sip local drinks beside Milan’s scenic canals.

Get a personalized Italy itinerary without the stress

Planning a trip to Italy should feel exciting, not overwhelming. And while our 10-day itinerary covers the highlights, the most unforgettable trips are the ones tailored to your unique pace, interests, and travel style. Whether you need an Italy itinerary for seven days or two weeks, a travel advisor can shape your entire trip around what matters most to you.

Advisors from TravelJoy take care of the details — from booking your hotel steps from the Pantheon to securing skip-the-line tickets for the Uffizi — so you can focus on enjoying every moment. 

Pack your bags (and don’t forget your appetite). Italy is calling, and with an advisor on your side, you can simply show up and embrace la dolce vita.

‍