Last Updated on October 13, 2022 by gregor
If you’re looking to explore everything that Italy has to offer, this 10-day itinerary is the perfect way to spend your time in Italy! From the city sights of Rome and Florence to the stunning coastline of the Amalfi Coast and the rolling hills of Tuscany, you’ll get a taste of everything this beautiful country has to offer.
Best 10 days Italy itinerary – How to Spend 10 Days in Italy
Day 1: Arrive in Rome
After landing at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, head into the city to check into your hotel. Take some time to relax after your flight, then start your Italy trip by heading out to explore your day in Rome. Start with a visit to the Colosseum, one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Then, walk over to the Roman Forum, the site of ancient Rome’s political and commercial center. After exploring the Forum, take a stroll through the nearby Palatine Hill. As the sun begins to set after a full day to explore, make your way to the Spanish Steps, a beautiful staircase that’s one of Rome’s most popular gathering spots. End your day with a delicious dinner at one of Rome’s many great restaurants.
Day 2: Tour the Vatican
No trip to Rome is complete without a tour of the Vatican. Spend the morning exploring the Vatican Museums, then take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica. In the afternoon, head to the Sistine Chapel to see Michelangelo’s world-famous frescoes.
After breakfast at your hotel, begin your day with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums. See some of the world’s most famous artists, including works by Michelangelo, as you explore the Vatican’s vast collection. Then, visit the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s world-renowned frescoes.
After your tour of the Vatican, take some time to explore Rome on your own. Visit iconic sights like the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, or do some shopping in one of the city’s many boutiques. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Italian meal at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Drive to Florence
After a leisurely breakfast in the Tuscan countryside, it’s time to hit the road for a day in Florence. The road trip should take about two hours, and you’ll want to stop along the way to take in the stunning scenery. Once you arrive in Florence, check into your hotel and then head out to explore the city. Start at the Duomo, one of the most iconic buildings in Italy, and then wander the cobbled streets, stopping to window-shop or people-watch. Make your way to the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, and then to the Pitti Palace. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the Boboli Gardens for a birds-eye view of the city. In the evening, enjoy a sunset aperitivo on one of the many rooftop bars before heading out for a delicious dinner of Florentine steak.
Day 4: Lake Como
After a morning spent exploring the picturesque town of Como, take a short ferry ride to the charming village of Bellagio. Stroll the streets lined with cafés, shops, and art galleries, or take a hike through the lush gardens and vineyards that dot the landscape. In the afternoon, take a boat ride out onto the sparkling blue waters of Lake Como for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5: Bolzano
Bolzano is the gateway to the trip around the Italian Alps and the Dolomites. This charming town is nestled in a valley and surrounded by towering mountains. You can explore the mountains by cable car, chairlift, or on foot. There are also several museums and galleries in Bolzano.
If you want to explore the Italian Alps and the Dolomites, Bolzano is the perfect base. There are plenty of things to do in this charming town, from exploring the mountains to visiting museums and galleries. Bolzano is also a great place to enjoy some traditional Italian food and offers the best view of the Alps.
Day 6: Drive to the Amalfi Coast
After a leisurely breakfast in your villa, check out and hit the road for the long drive to the Amalfi Coast. The coastline here is nothing short of stunning, with towering cliffs, crystal-clear water, and pretty pastel-colored houses dotting the hillside. Spend the day exploring the picturesque towns of Amalfi and Ravello. Be sure to take a swim in the sea and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner in one of the local restaurants. Don’t leave Italy without doing this!
Day 7: Drive to Pompeii
After breakfast, it’s time to head to Pompeii. The drive will take about 2 hours, so make sure to make plenty of stops along the way to enjoy the views. When you arrive, take a tour of the ancient ruins, then spend some time exploring the town.
Day 8: Drive to Naples
After a leisurely breakfast in Rome, it’s time to hit the road and head south to the city of Naples. This drive will take approximately three hours, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to make any stops along the way. Once you arrive in Naples, be sure to check out some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Naples National Archaeological Museum, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the Naples Cathedral. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, simply take a stroll through one of the city’s many neighborhoods and take in the sights and sounds of daily life in Naples. In the evening, be sure to enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Neapolitan cuisine.
Read my Full Naples Travel Guide: NAPLES, ITALY, ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE – TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NAPOLI
Read 3 Days in Naples Itinerary Guide:3 DAYS IN NAPOLI, ITALY COMPLETE NAPLES ITINERARY
Day 9: Cinque Terre
Italy itinerary for 10 days- day 9: The Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park in Italy. It is located on the Ligurian coast, between the cities of La Spezia and Genoa. The Cinque Terre is comprised of five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
The Cinque Terre is best known for its dramatic coastline and hiking trails. The villages are connected by a network of hiking trails and a scenic train line. The Cinque Terre is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Italian Riviera.
Start your day with a hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza. The trail is about 4 miles (6.4 km) and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the coastline.
After your hike, relax in Vernazza with a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. Vernazza has a small beach that is perfect for a refreshing swim.
In the afternoon, take the train to Corniglia. Corniglia is the smallest of the five villages and is located high on a cliff. From Corniglia, hike to Manarola. The hike is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
In Manarola, enjoy some of the local wine and take in the stunning views of the village and coastline.
End your day with a hike from Manarola to Riomaggiore. The hike is about 2 miles (3.2 km) and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. Riomaggiore is the largest of the five villages and is located at the southern end of the Cinque Terre.
After your hike, relax in Riomaggiore with a glass of wine and enjoy the stunning views of the village and coastline.
Day 10: Depart for home
After a whirlwind of ten days in Italy, it’s time to head back home. But not before one final stop in Rome for some last-minute shopping and souvenir hunting. Start the morning at the Vatican, where you can explore the incredible museums, before heading to the historic center for some lunch. Then it’s time to hit the shops, whether you’re looking for designer duds or local handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a final dinner of delicious Italian fare before packing your bags and heading to the airport. Thanks for choosing Italy for your vacation – we hope you had a wonderful time!
How do I plan a 10 Days Trip to Italy?
There are many ways to plan a 10 days trip to Italy, but here are a few tips to get you started.
1. First, decide which regions of Italy you would like to visit. There is a lot to see in this country, so it helps to narrow it down to a few areas that interest you the most.
2. Once you have an idea of where you would like to go, start researching accommodation options. There are a variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels available throughout Italy.
3. Once you have your accommodation sorted, start looking into flights. Italy has a number of major airports, so it should be easy to find a direct flight from your home country.
4. Once you have your flights booked, it’s time to start thinking about your itinerary. Italy has a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty, so there is no shortage of things to do. Try to balance your time between sightseeing, relaxation, and exploring the local food and wine scene.
5. Finally, don’t forget to pack your bags! Italy is a stylish country, so make sure to pack some clothes that you feel comfortable walking around in.
How Much is a Trip to Italy Going to Cost?
The cost of a trip to Italy will vary depending on your travel plans. If you are flying into Rome and spending a week touring the city, you can expect to spend around $2,000. This includes your flight, hotel, food, and activities. If you are planning to rent a car and drive around Italy, you can expect to spend around $3,500. This includes your flight, car rental, gas, and hotels.
Where Are the Best Places to Visit in Italy?
Italy is a country rich in history, art, and culture. There are so many amazing places to visit in Italy that it can be hard to decide where to go. Here are ten of the best places to visit in Italy:
1. Rome – Rome is the capital of Italy and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. There is so much to see and do in Rome, from the Colosseum and the Vatican to the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.
2. Florence – Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region and is known for its art and architecture. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence include the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio.
3. Venice – Venice is a unique city built on canals and is known for its gondolas and Venetian glass. There are many interesting places to visit in Venice, such as St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the Canal Grande. Read my 3 Days in Venice Itinerary Guide: 3 DAYS IN VENICE ITALY BEST VENICE ITINERARY
4. Cinque Terre – Cinque Terre is a group of five picturesque villages located on the Italian Riviera. The villages are connected by hiking trails and offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
5. Verona – Verona is a city in the Veneto region of Italy and is best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Some of the main attractions in Verona include the Arena, the house where Juliet lived, and the tomb of Romeo and Juliet.
6. Naples – Naples is the capital of the Campania region and is one of the largest cities in Italy. Naples is known for its pizza, its vibrant nightlife, and its beautiful beaches. Read my Full Naples Travel Guide: NAPLES, ITALY, ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE – TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NAPOLI
Read 3 Days in Naples Itinerary Guide:3 DAYS IN NAPOLI, ITALY COMPLETE NAPLES ITINERARY
7. Milan – Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region and is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Some of the main attractions in Milan include the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Teatro alla Scala. Read my Milan Travel Guide: BEST OF MILAN IN ONE DAY (TRAVEL GUIDE AND MAP 2022)
8. Siena – Siena is a city in the Tuscany region of Italy and is known for its Gothic architecture. Some of the main attractions in Siena include the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Piazza del Campo.
9. Pisa – Pisa is a city in the Tuscany region of Italy and is known for its iconic leaning tower. Other attractions in Pisa include the Duomo, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto.
10. Amalfi Coast – The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline on the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula. The Amalfi Coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, its beautiful beaches, and its quaint towns.
What’s the best time to visit Italy?
The best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder seasons, between April and June, or September and October. The weather is milder during these months, making it more comfortable to sight see. Plus, there are fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. However, if you’re interested in visiting southern Italy, the best time to go is between May and September, when the weather is warmest.
Is 10 days enough to visit Italy?
Are 10 days enough to visit Italy? This is a difficult question to answer, as it depends on what you want to see and do while you are in Italy. If you just want to spend a few days in the major cities, then 10 days may be enough. However, if you want to explore the country more thoroughly, 10 days may not be enough.
Where Should You Start and End Your 10 Days in Italy?
Assuming you have 10 days in Italy, you’ll want to make the most of your time by starting and ending your trip in two of the country’s most iconic cities: Rome and Venice.
Rome is home to some of the world’s most famous historical sites, like the Colosseum and the Vatican, while Venice is renowned for its stunning canals and bridges. By starting your trip in Rome, you can explore all the city’s must-see attractions at a leisurely pace before taking a day trip to one of Italy’s otherworldly UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Pompeii. Then it’s off to Venice for a few days of relaxing and exploring one of Europe’s most romantic cities. Finally, end your 10 days in Italy with a day trip to the picturesque hill town of Siena before heading back home.
What are the top cities to visit in Italy on a 10-day trip?
Assuming you have 10 days to travel in Italy, here are some of the top cities you should consider visiting:
Rome: The capital of Italy is rich in history and culture. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, there is an endless amount of things to see and do.
Florence: Home to some of the world’s most iconic Renaissance art and architecture.
Venice: A unique city built on canals and islands. Take a gondola ride down one of the many waterways, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Cinque Terre: Five picturesque villages located along the coast of the Liguria region. Hike the trails connecting the villages, or relax by the sea.
Sienna: A medieval city with well-preserved architecture and art. Climb up to the top of the Tower of Mangia for a breathtaking view of the city.
These are just a few of the many wonderful places Italy has to offer. With such a diverse range of destinations, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
What airports should I use on my Italy itinerary?
Assuming you’re starting in Rome, the best airports to use for your Italy itinerary are Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, you can fly into most major airports in Italy. If you’re looking to save some money on airfare, consider flying to one of Italy’s smaller airports, such as Pisa International Airport (PSA), Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY), or Treviso-Sant’Angelo Airport (TSF).
Conclusion
If you’re looking to explore all that Italy has to offer, this 10-day Italy itinerary is the perfect way to do it. From the canals of Venice to the rolling hills of Tuscany, you’ll get to experience all the best that this beautiful country has to offer. And with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the food, wine, and culture, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip.
Additional related Italy Travel Guides you might enjoy:
3 DAYS IN VENICE ITALY BEST VENICE ITINERARY
3 DAYS IN NAPOLI, ITALY COMPLETE NAPLES ITINERARY
NAPLES, ITALY, ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE – TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NAPOLI
BEST THINGS TO DO IN TRIESTE (ITALY) TOP ATTRACTIONS
BEST OF MILAN IN ONE DAY (TRAVEL GUIDE AND MAP 2022)
TOP THINGS TO DO IN GRADO, ITALY
