Italy is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and for good reasons. It has a rich history, culture, art, cuisine, and natural beauty that can satisfy any traveler’s taste. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, admire Renaissance masterpieces, indulge in delicious food or relax on the beach, Italy has it all. But with so much to see and do, how do you plan a perfect 10 days Italy itinerary? In this blog, you will get to know how to spend 10 days in Italy, covering some of the best places to visit and things to do in this amazing country.
10 days Italy itinerary
Day 1 and Day 2: Rome
On your first day in Italy, you will arrive in Rome. The reason to keep this beautiful city on the first day is on the basis of flights and price. Rome is one of Italy’s major airports so flights come to Rome from all around the world. Many people choose Rome first over Venice due to this reason. You can choose between Rome and Venice on the basis of availability of flight and convenience.
Rome is the capital and largest city of Italy famous for its ancient monuments, artistic masterpieces, and cultural attractions that will leave you in awe. It is recommended to spend 2 days in this beautiful city.
Places to visit and Things to do in Rome
The Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the seven wonders in the world. It is 1900 years old and famous as the world’s largest ampitheater. The colosseum stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the ancient Romans. It has a seating capacity of over 50,000 spectators. A visit to this iconic landmark is must for anyone in Rome.
Roman forum
The Roman forum was a political, religious, and social center of ancient Rome, where you can see the ruins of temples, basilicas, arches, and other buildings that witnessed the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. Make sure to visit this place if you are a history buff.
Trevi fountain
It is the largest and most famous fountain in Rome. Trevi fountain is considered as the most beautiful fountain in the world. It is believed that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will ensure your return to Rome.
Vatican
It is highly recommended to spend your entire day 2 in exploring Vatican while in Rome. While in Vatican visit Saint Peter’s Basilica and tour the Vatican Museums.
Day 3 and Day 4: Travel to Florence (10 days Italy itinerary)
On your third day, leave Rome and and travel to florence, the birthplace of renaissance. Travel by train as it will take 1.5 hours to reach Florence from Rome.
Florence is one of the most beautiful and cultural cities in Italy, and a must-see for any art lover. It has an interesting collection of art and architecture that will amaze you.
Places to visit and things to do in Florence
Duomo
The Florence Duomo is one of the most beautiful building in the world. The dome dominates the Florence skyline and here you can get the breathtaking view of the city from the top.
Uffizi gallery
It is the most famous museum in Florence and one of the best in the world. Uffizi gallery is one of the oldest museum in the whole of Europe. It houses some of the greatest masterpieces of art by artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, etc. Uffizi gallery is definitely a worth visiting place during your Florence trip.
Ponte Vecchio
It is the oldest stone bridge in Europe and the only bridge in Florence that survived the World war 2.It is famous for its unique shops and beautiful architecture, making it a popular tourist attraction in Florence.
Piaza della signoria
It is a beautiful square in Florence, surrounded by stunning buildings such as the Palazzo Vecchio, the Loggia dei Lanzi, and the Fountain of Neptune. Here you can watch street performances and enjoy.
You can spend your third day spending famous attractions, depending on your interest. For dinner, you can choose from variety of restaurants and cafes. You can try local cuisine like ribollita (bread and vegetable soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), lampredotto (cow stomach sandwich), or cantucci (almond biscuits).
For your fourth day you can visit popular attractions like:
- Accademia Gallery
- Basilica of Santa Croce
- Medici Chapels
- San Lorenzo Market
- Leaning tower of Pisa which is close to Florence
- Siena : City which is close to Florence
Day 5 and Day 6: Travel to Cinque Terre (10 days Italy itinerary)
On your fifth day, you will leave Florence and travel to Cinque terre. The best way to travel from Florence to Cinque terre is by train. It is recommended to spend 2 days here.
Cinque Terre, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic and colorful places in Italy. It is a must visit place in your 10 days Italy itinerary. Cinque terre means five lands, it consist of five villages Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Places to visit in Cinque Terre
Monterosso
It is the largest and most developed village in Cinque Terre and the only one that has a sandy beach. You can relax on the beach, swim in the sea, or visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Statue of St. Francis of Assisi.
Vernazza in Italy
It is one of the most beautiful and photogenic village in Cinque Terre. It has a small harbor with fishing boats and a castle with an old tower that offers a panoramic view of the village and the sea. You should not miss this place in Italy during your trip.
Corniglia
It is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.Here, you can enjoy the beautiful sunset in Cinque Terre. It has a quiet and rural atmosphere and it is not overcrowded by tourist.
Manarola
It is a world heritage site. Manarola is the oldest and most colorful village in Cinque Terre and it is most popular amongst the tourists. Famous attractions and things to do in Manarola
- Church of San Lorenzo
- La Via dell’Amore
- The Manarola nativity scene
- Via Belvedere
- Santuario di Nostra Signora della Salute
- Port of Manarola
Riomaggiore
It is the largest village in Cinque Terre and one of the most lively and vibrant. Here you will find shops and restaurants, a small harbor with fishing boats, and a pebbly beach where you can swim or kayak.
In Cinque terre you can hike along the trails which offers spectacular views. In cuisine, you can try pesto, focaccia, anchovies, trofie.
Other famous attractions you can visit in your sixth day are:
- Portovenere: It is not a part of Cinque terre but near (approx 25kms)
- Levanto (12 km form Cinque terre)
- La Spezia
Day 7 and Day 8: Travel to Naples (10 days Italy itinerary)
On your seventh day in Italy, you will leave Cinque Terre and travel to Naples. You can take a train from La spezia to Naples which takes about 5 to hours. It is one of the most vibrant city in Italy that you should not miss during your 10 days Italy itinerary. It is famous for its pizza, volcano, art, and culture, but it also has a lot of hidden gems that will surprise you.
Places to visit and Things to do in Naples
Capri
Capri is a beautiful island located in the bay of Naples. It is famous for its stunning coastline and attracts tourist from all around the world. It has a variety of boat tours, you can go for water sports like snorkelling, swimming, etc.
Castel dell’Ovo
It is the oldest castel in Naples and offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city. Entry is free and sometimes there are art exhibitions too. Don’t expect to see some historical artefacts inside as there is nothing much historical you will find here but the views from the top are fabulous.
Teatro di San Carlo
If you are in Naples, don’t miss this beautiful opera house. It has a beautiful architecture. This opera house is the oldest working opera house in the world.
Pompeii
The excavations and archaelogical area of Pompeii is one of the most famous attractions in Naples that attracts tourist from all around the world. Make sure to visit this place if you are a history buff.
Visit mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Naples. There are hiking trails from where you can enjoy the beautiful view of Naples.
Gesù Nuovo
It is also known as New jesus. It is one of the most beautiful church in Naples, famous for its beautiful interior, colorful gardens and decorated rooms.
Enjoy Tasty Pizza in Naples
Naples is considered as the world capital of Pizza. It is the birthplace of Pizza. So, don’t forget to try the local Naples pizza during your trip.You can also try some local specialties, such as sfogliatella (a flaky pastry filled with ricotta), babà (a rum-soaked cake), or limoncello (a lemon liqueur).
Day 9 and Day 10: Venice (10 days Italy itinerary)
Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is famous for its backwaters, canals, palaces, etc. It is often referred to as the “Floating City,” and attracts tourist from all around the world with its unique charm and architectural wonders
Places to visit in Venice
Grand Canal
Grand canal is famous for its beautiful palaces that lines the canal. Most of the palaces dates back to 13th to 18th century! You can take the waterbus or gondola to explore.
Rialto bridge
Rialto bridge is the oldest and most famous bridge in Venice. It is over 160 years old. Rialto bridge is the best spot to take photos, so don’t forget to take your camera with you.
Burano
Burano is a colorful island in the Venetian lagoon. It is famous for its lace-making tradition and brightly painted houses. To get here, you can take a boat ride and walk through its charming streets and shops.
St Mark’s square or Piazza san marco
It is the main square of Venice. It contains one of the most famous buildings such as St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. St. Mark’s square is a must visit spot in Venice and it attracts tourist from all around the world.
Murano
Murano is a beautiful island in Venetian lagoon, famous for its glass making factories and labs. You can visit the glass museum and buy some souvenirs at the shop. The most spectacular item in glass museum is the chandlier that weighs 330 kilos.
Lido island
Lido island is famous for hosting Venice film festival every year. Here you can do many beach activites and go to festivals. Vist the famous Alberoni beach, Discover Malamocco, etc.
This 10 days Italy itinerary includes a combination of sightseeing, activities, relaxation, and fun, allowing you to experience some of the highlights that Italy has to offer in just 10 days.
Hope you find this 10 days Italy itinerary helpful in planning your trip.
