Atrás to ItaliaItalia

10-Day Italy Itinerary: Rome, Florence, Venice & Amalfi Coast

Embark on an unforgettable 10-day adventure through Italy, a journey that promises to immerse you in history, art, breathtaking landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. This carefully crafted itinerary guides you through the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, before culminating in the stunning coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

An Overview of Your Italian Journey

This itinerary is designed to offer a balanced experience, combining cultural exploration with scenic relaxation. You’ll traverse Italy efficiently, primarily by train, allowing you to maximize your time in each destination while enjoying the picturesque views along the way.

Getting Around Italy

Italy boasts an excellent high-speed train network, making travel between major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice both convenient and comfortable. For the Amalfi Coast, a combination of train and local transport (bus or ferry) is recommended. Booking train tickets in advance, especially for high-speed routes, is advisable to secure better fares and preferred times.

Your Detailed 10-Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: Rome – The Eternal City

Begin your Italian adventure in Rome, a city where ancient history breathes alongside vibrant modern life. Three days allow for a comprehensive exploration of its timeless wonders.

  • Day 1: Ancient Rome.Dedicate your first day to the heart of the Roman Empire. Explore the magnificent Colosseum, envisioning gladiatorial contests, and then wander through the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where emperors once resided. Conclude your day with a visit to the Pantheon, an architectural marvel.
  • Day 2: Vatican City & Baroque Beauty.Cross into Vatican City to marvel at St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to the Sistine Chapel. Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered). In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rome's Baroque charm: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, admire the Spanish Steps, and relax in Piazza Navona.
  • Day 3: Roman Neighbourhoods & Culinary Delights.Spend your final day exploring the charming Trastevere neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and authentic Roman trattorias. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and perhaps visit a local market. Consider a cooking class to learn the secrets of Roman pasta.
Travel Tip:Purchase a Rome Pass or similar city card if you plan to visit many attractions; it can save time and money. Always book popular attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums well in advance to avoid long queues.

Days 4-6: Florence – Cradle of the Renaissance

Travel by high-speed train from Rome to Florence (approx. 1.5-2 hours). Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture.

  • Day 4: Duomo & Uffizi.Start your Florence experience at the iconic Florence Cathedral (Duomo), climbing Brunelleschi's Dome for panoramic city views (book in advance!). Afterward, explore Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art at the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
  • Day 5: Accademia, Ponte Vecchio & Oltrarno.Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's David up close. Stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, browsing its unique shops. Spend the afternoon exploring the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and traditional leather goods. Enjoy a sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Day 6: Tuscan Day Trip.Utilize your third day for a captivating day trip into the heart of Tuscany. Popular options include a visit to Siena, famous for its Piazza del Campo, or a half-day excursion to Pisa to see its Leaning Tower. Many tours combine wine tasting in the Chianti region with these destinations.

Days 7-8: Venice – The Floating City

Take a high-speed train from Florence to Venice(approx. 2-2.5 hours).Venice, with its labyrinthine canals and enchanting bridges, offers a truly unique experience.

Fun Fact:Venice is built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon, with no roads, just canals and pedestrian bridges. It's truly one-of-a-kind!

Days 9-10: Amalfi Coast – Coastal Charm

From Venice, take a high-speed train to Naples or Salerno (approx. 5-6 hours). From there, connect to the Amalfi Coast via regional train, bus, or ferry. This dramatic coastline is a perfect finale to your Italian adventure.

  • Day 9: Positano & Amalfi.Settle into your accommodation in one of the charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello. Spend the day exploring the iconic vertical village of Positano, with its colorful houses cascading down to the sea. Enjoy the beach, browse local boutiques, and savor fresh seafood. In the afternoon, take a ferry or bus to Amalfi, visiting its stunning Duomo and exploring the town's history.
  • Day 10: Ravello & Departure.Dedicate your final morning to the elegant clifftop town of Ravello. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for their exquisite gardens and breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Depending on your flight schedule, head back to Naples or Salerno for your departure, perhaps enjoying one last limoncello along the way.

Essential Travel Tips

  • Accommodation:Book well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure preferred locations and prices.
  • Packing:Pack light and versatile clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are a must! Don't forget adapters, a portable charger, and a small daypack.
  • Food & Drink:Embrace the local cuisine. Look for trattorias frequented by locals. Don't be afraid to try regional specialties. Tipping is not obligatory in Italy, but rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated.
  • Language:While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases (grazie, prego, buongiorno, ciao) goes a long way.
  • Connectivity:Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an eSIM for data access, which is invaluable for navigation and research.

Making the Most of Your Trip

Italy is a country that rewards exploration and a willingness to simply wander. While this itinerary provides a solid framework, allow for flexibility. Some of the best discoveries are made when you stray from the plan and stumble upon a hidden piazza, a local eatery, or a captivating view. Enjoy every moment of your incredible Italian journey!