Published Date : Dec 05, 2024
Category : Travel tips
Italy has always had a special charm, drawing travelers in with its rich history, stunning art, and breathtaking landscapes. With its growing popularity, millions of people visit Italy each year to experience its iconic sites and stunning scenery. A two-week trip is the perfect amount of time to discover Italy’s top cities, from the ancient wonders of Rome to the artistic masterpieces of Florence and the romantic canals of Venice. This Italy Itinerary will help you plan your dream Italian adventure, including tips on exploring coastal gems and hidden treasures.
Rome, the Eternal City and capital of Italy, is filled with some of the most iconic historical sites in the world. Imagine yourself watching the fierce gladiators engaged in open combat while exploring the Colosseum or admiring Michelangelo's masterpiece beneath the Sistine Chapel. From ancient ruins to Baroque fountains, you’ll be captured by Rome’s history and culture, guaranteed.
Colosseum: A Roman architectural marvel used for gladiatorial contests .
Vatican City: A city within a city and home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Pantheon: A well-preserved ancient temple famous for its massive dome.
Trevi Fountain & Piazza Navona: A Baroque fountain beautiful square in Rome.
Start exploring by foot around the city center followed by guided tours of the Vatican and Colosseum. Don’t forget to have a taste of some authentic Roman dishes at local trattorias, such as carbonara and cacio e pepe.
For easy access to key sites and major attractions, it be best to stay in the heart of Rome. Royal Rooms Via Del Corso and Palazzo Medusa are highly rated options that combine comfort and convenience.
Rome received 35 million tourists in 2023, that is a 62% increase in foreign tourist visits just in the first half of that year compared to 2022. So, if you’re planning your holidays, advance booking is highly recommended. Visit Holidays Center for the best deals!
Pros | Cons |
Rich history and culture | Crowded during peak season |
Iconic landmarks | High cost of accommodations |
Great culinary scene | Traffic congestion |
After visiting Rome, continue your adventure through the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.
The well-preserved ruins of Pompeii will definitely take you to ancient Roman life. To get the most out of this experience, try hiring a tour guide. After your historic tour enjoy nearby restaurants featuring local Campanian specialties.
Following a visit to Pompeii, make your way to the Amalfi Coast, its striking cliffs, vibrant architecture, colorful villages, and crystal-clear blue waters are guaranteed to take your breath away. Escape stress, relax on the beautiful beaches of Positano and discover the timeless Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
Stay either in Positano or Amalfi for a complete coastal experience. Both towns offer charming hotels and easy access to scenic beaches.
In 2023, Pompeii welcomed a historic 4 million visitors, solidifying its reputation as one of the best tourist spots in Italy. To ensure a comfortable journey, visit between April and June or September and October, when there are fewer crowds.
Pros | Cons |
Historical depth (Pompeii) | High tourist density in Amalfi |
Stunning coastal landscapes | Limited parking along the coast |
Local cuisine with fresh seafood | Expensive accommodations |
Rest from history for a bit and spoil yourself with high-end boutiques and luxury brand stores in Capri. For a more relaxed pace, it’s highly recommended to stay for two days.
Key Attractions
Blue Grotto: A magical sea cave famous for its electric blue waters.
Gardens of Augustus: Provides panoramic views over Capri’s cliffs guaranteed to sweep you off your feet.
Suggested Activities
Enjoy the island’s dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and Faraglioni rocks by boat for a more unique vantage point. Visit local shops for unique finds, and trek to beautiful overlooks to view Capri in all its glory.
Accommodation Recommendations
For easy access to ferries and beaches, consider staying near Marina Grande. For a more peaceful stay, Anacapri offers convenient access to the island’s top attractions.
Ferry services from Naples to Capri operate regularly, still, securing tickets in advance is recommended. Access to the Blue Grotto varies by season and weather, with the best times to visit being in the early morning.
Pros | Cons |
Beautiful natural attractions | High prices during peak season |
Unique shopping and souvenirs | Blue Grotto access is weather-dependent |
Easy day trips by boat | Limited budget accommodations |
Florence, the heart of the Italian Renaissance, is a city abundant in art, history, and Tuscan tastes.
Key Attractions
Uffizi Gallery: Home to the masterpieces of Michelangelo and Botticelli.
Ponte Vecchio: The oldest, historic and most iconic bridge in Florence, lined with shops and great views.
Florence Cathedral: Known for its iconic red-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi.
Suggested Activities
Indulge in the masterpieces of the Renaissance at the Uffizi, and appreciate Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery. Try local wines, enjoy traditional Tuscan dishes and climb to the top of the Florence Cathedral for an unobstructed city view.
Accommodation Recommendations
Consider hotels in Santa Maria Novella for easy access to Florence’s historic center and main attractions
Uffizi Gallery made history in 2023 recording more than 5 million visitors, proving that it remains as attractive as ever. If you want a smooth visit to the museum, purchase tickets in advance.
Pros | Cons |
Rich art and cultural scene | High entry fees for museums |
Excellent food and wine | Crowds in peak seasons |
Walkable city | Limited parking options |
Your Italy tour wouldn’t be complete without Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower. Cinque Terre also brings unique experiences with its stunning coastal trails.
Key Attractions
Leaning Tower of Pisa: A world-renowned architectural wonder famous for its unintended tilt.
Cinque Terre: Known for colorful houses and stunning sea views along the Mediterranean coast.
Suggested Activities
Capture unforgettable memories in the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), where a quick visit to the Leaning Tower is guaranteed to leave you in awe. Alternatively, for an extended and immersive experience such as hiking and exploring local villages, head to Cinque Terre.
Accommodation Recommendations
Consider staying in Monterosso for easy access to hiking trails and beaches or Vernazza for direct access to nearby villages like Corniglia.
Since the increase of visitor numbers in recent years, it's highly recommended to schedule your trip to the Cinque Terre in advance. The most convenient way to travel around Cinque Terre is by public train.
Pros | Cons |
Unique historical sites | Leaning Tower visit may be brief |
Coastal beauty in Cinque Terre | Heavy foot traffic on trails |
Authentic local charm | Limited access to some areas |
It would be such a waste if you miss Venice. With its canals and jaw-dropping architecture, it is truly a unique destination. Stay for at least 2 days, this will give you enough time to explore.
Key Attractions
Grand Canal: Perfect for scenic boat rides, Grand Canal offers a unique charm found nowhere else.
St. Mark’s Basilica: A stunning architectural gem, known for its ornate design and rich history.
Rialto Bridge: Offers great views of the canal and market.
Suggested Activities
Enjoy a magical gondola ride and pass Venice’s historic sites. Sample local flavors in Rialto Bridge, such as risotto nero, for an authentic taste of Venetian cuisine.
Accommodation Recommendations
Stay near St. Mark’s Square or in Cannaregio for unbeatable convenience and easy access to top attractions.
In 2024, Venice implemented a €5 tourist entry fee to manage crowds during peak season. You might want to consider spending your holidays during the off-season.
Pros | Cons |
Unique canal experience | High costs for gondola rides |
Stunning architecture | Overcrowding in summer |
Rich cultural atmosphere | Limited walking space |
Finally, end your trip with a bang in Milan, where fashion and business collide.
Key Attractions
Milan Cathedral: A gothic masterpiece.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Famous shopping arcade.
Milan Fashion Week: One of the world’s most prestigious fashion events.
Suggested Activities
Exclusive access to runway shows or designer presentations can be quite challenging. However, public events and pop-up events are often held around the city. If you are looking for luxury brands, stroll through Milan’s fashion district (Quadrilatero della Moda). Finally, after a tiring day of shopping, have a well-deserved classic Milanese dish in the city’s trattoria.
Accommodation Recommendations
Stay near Milan Cathedral (Duomo) as it offers more affordable accommodation options. Milan’s fashion district tends to have pricier hotels, however, you may still find deals in nearby neighborhoods, such as Porta Venezia.
In 2023, Milan attracted a record-breaking 8.5 million tourists. If you have plans for fashion week, make sure to secure early hotel reservations. Also, YesMilano City Pass was introduced by the city that grants visitors access to public transport and museums.
Safety Tips
Additional Tips
This Italy itinerary is just a guide. Plan your trip according to your pace, whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing along the coast, savoring local cuisine or simply hungry for fashion. Make the most of your time and always book ahead, especially for popular sites.
Don’t be shy to take that adventure!
Best time to visit Italy?
Between April to June (spring) or between September to October (fall).
Cost of a two-week trip to Italy?
For mid-range accommodations, meals, and activities, set aside at least €1,500–€2,500 per person.
Must-see attractions in Rome?
You can never go wrong with the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.
Travel between cities?
If traveling between cities, Italy’s train system is efficient and widely used.
