Italy Itinerary: 7 Days

EuropeItaly
Written By Jessica Bergin

Ah, the land of pizza, pasta and gelato. If you want a taste of ‘La Dolce Vita’, you’re in the right place. Here are 8 different ideas for a 7 day Italy itinerary.

Italy is my favourite country in the world. Hands down. And, I’m lucky enough to have visited more times than I can count on my fingers. Back in Australia, I learned Italian for more than 10 years. My healthy obsession was sparked over the food, culture, history and language.

To this day, I’ve loved (and still love) all things Italy. I’ve even vowed that one day, I’ll retire there.

Having lived in Barcelona for more than six years, I’ve been able to score cheap €10 flights and jet-set off on an Italian getaway - taking short trips to Lake Como, Milan, Rome, Sardinia and more. I’ve loved squeezing in as much as possible on my holidays in Italy, and so that’s why I’ve compiled these eight different route ideas for an epic 7 day Italy itinerary.

Whether it’s your first trip to Italy or you’re a seasoned traveller, there are plenty of ways to make your pasta-filled trip unique. If you’re wondering how to to spend 1 week in Italy, this is the ultimate guide for you. Culture, cuisine, history - we’ve got it all packed into these pizza-crazed itineraries.

We’ll even cover the best time to visit, how to get around and where to stay. Plus, you can find more alternatives for an 10- and 14-day Italy itinerary.

 

How to Spend 7 Days in Italy: 8 Different Itinerary Ideas

italy itinerary for 7 days

Here are 8 unique suggestions for the perfect 1 week in Italy itinerary:

  1. The Highlights and Hot Spots:
    Rome, Florence and Venice

  2. The Capital City & the Amalfi Coast:
    Rome, Naples & Amalfi Coast

  3. The Dreamy Tuscany Route:
    Florence, Siena and Montepulciano

  4. The Northern Route:
    Milan, Lake Como and Venice

  5. The East Coast:
    Rome, Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre

  6. The Sicilian Route:
    Palermo, Taormina and Catania

  7. The Dolomites Route:
    Northern Italy

  8. The Sardinian Route:
    Olbia, Sassari and Cagliari

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Highlights and Hot Spots: Rome, Florence and Venice

Let’s kick off this travel guide with Italy’s ‘Big Three’. If it’s your first time in Italy, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed. There’s so much to choose from, so that’s why it’s best to start with three of the country’s most renowned destinations - Rome, Florence and Venice.

These iconic cities in Italy offer everything under the sun, from fantastic art galleries and must-see museums to ancient ruins and canal-side cuisine. In just one week, you’ll explore the highlights in each of the country’s most popular tourist spots. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect in this Italy itinerary for 7 days:

  • Day 1 - 2: Rome

  • Day 3 - 5: Florence

  • Day 6 - 7: Venice

Day 1 - 2: Rome

Get the ball rolling in Italy’s character-packed capital city. Rome is known for its ancient sites, archaeological gems and rich history. Fringed with drool-worthy gastonomy and lush parks, you can enjoy the perfect mix of sightseeing, outdoor activities and food-filled events.

Start your day in Piazza Navona, then take a guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Toss a coin into the Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain), wander around the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel and watch the sunset from the Spanish Steps.

Don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Pantheon and Crypts and Catacombs! Spice up your sightseeing with a Pasta Making Class with Wine, Limoncello, and Dessert or this Trastevere or Jewish Quarter Street Food Tour.

For everything you need to know about visiting Italy’s capital city, check out this full guide on How to Plan a Trip to Rome.

Where to Stay in Rome:

Day 3 - 5: Florence

In this next leg of your 1 week in Italy itinerary, you’ll venture up north to the capital city of the Tuscany region. Florence is famous for its art, architecture and rich cultural hertiage.

Spend the next three days dabbling in all the city’s culinary and cultural delights. Visit the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, David & Accademia, feel the breeze on an Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert and spend the evening in a Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine.

Don’t miss Florence’s most popular attraction, the Duomo Cathedral, and escape to the countryside on this Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting.

Where to Stay in Florence:

Day 6 - 7: Venice

Now that you’ve visited Rome and Florence, it’s time to make your way up to Italy’s northeastern corner. Wind up your one week trip in the charming ‘City of Canals’, Venice.

Venice is picture-perfect from every angle, with its labyrinth-like canals, gorgeous bridges and striking architecture. This popular tourist destination in Italy offers exciting events and activities, from traditional gondola rides to the colouful carnival celebrations.

In this last part of your 7 day Italy itinerary, spend some time in Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica and explore the colourful towns of Burano & Murano. Listen to a Four Seasons Concert at Vivaldi Church or squeeze in more sightseeing on a Venice highlights tour.

Where to Stay in Venice:

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Capital City & the Amalfi Coast: Rome, Naples & Amalfi Coast

amalfi coast in italy itinerary

This 1 week Italy itinerary is ideal for those who want to explore both the city and the coast.

You’ll marvel at the myriad attractions in Italy’s capital city, Rome, before making your way down south towards pizza-crazed Naples.

Then, you’ll spend the last leg of your trip on the iconic Amalfi Coast and see top travel destinations like Amalfi, Atrani and Positano.

Here’s a quick rundown of this one week itinerary:

  • Day 1 - 2: Rome

  • Day 3: Naples

  • Day 4 - 7: Amalfi Coast

Day 1 - 2: Rome

Kick off your first two days in Rome and get ready for some sightseeing. Wander around the ancient ruins, spend plenty of time in the Vatican City and soak up all the age-old wonder and enchanting ambience.

Lock lips with local cuisine in a Pasta Making Class with Wine, Limoncello, and Dessert or a Trastevere or Jewish Quarter Street Food Tour. See top spots like the Pantheon and Crypts and Catacombs and take a deep dive on a Guided Tour of Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill.

If there’s one thing you can’t miss on this first leg of your 7 days in Italy, it’s a trip inside the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. These hot spots are home to the largest art collection in the world and you can find everything from ancient Egypt and Greece to Renaissance art and medieval masterpieces.

Where to Stay in Rome:

Day 3: Naples

On day three, you’ll jump aboard a high-speed train and head south to the birthplace of pizza. Naples is known as a hub for both foodies and history buffs alike, but it’s also serves as a gateway to the famous Amalfi Coast.

Explore the colourful markets and relish the flavours of mouth-watering pizza. Better yet, master the art in an Authentic Italian Pizza-Making Workshop with Drink. Mix up the palatable plates and discover new tastes on a Street Food Walking Tour with Local Guide.

Go deeper on a Naples Underground Entry Ticket and Guided Tour and escape the city buzz on a Day trip from Naples to the Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius. For more exciting day tours, check out this comprehensive guide on the Best Day Trips from Naples, Italy.

Note: If you want to spend 7 days in Italy on a budget, you could save more money by basing yourself in Naples for the rest of this trip. Day trips to the Amalfi Coast are quite affordable from Naples, especially if you catch a high-speed train or ferry. Otherwise, you could consider making your next accommodation stop in quaint villages like Vietri sul Mare.

Where to Stay in Naples:

Day 4 - 7: Amalfi Coast

This last leg of your 1 week in Italy itinerary comes to a close on the dreamy Amalfi Coast. This picturesque region of Italy is well-known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, natural splendour and terraced vineyards.

Located in Campania along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, this popular destinations is teeming with things to do. From the sheer cliffs and sweeping shoreline to the umbrella-dotted beaches and colourful fishing villages, there are an array of exciting activities and attractions. Don’t miss a thing with my guide on the Best Things to do in Amalfi Coast.

Try out your cooking skills in a traditional cooking class, get refreshed on a snorkelling boat trip or see the top sites on a boat tour with aperitif in Capri Island. Get active on a transparant kayak tour around Sorrento, soak up the sun on a snorkelling boat trip or head up to the mountains on a hiking tour on the Path of the Gods.

Where to Stay in Amalfi Coast:

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Dreamy Tuscany Route: Florence, Siena and Montepulciano

This 7 days in Italy itinerary kicks off in the capital city of Italy’s Tuscany region. You’ll meander around the museums and galleries in Florence, before heading up to the quaint countryside towns of Siena and Montepulciano. Here’s a basic breakdown of this one week itinerary:

  • Day 1 - 3: Florence

  • Day 4 - 5: Siena

  • Day 6 - 7: Montepulciano

Day 1 - 3: Florence

Set your trip in motion in fascinating Florence, a top travel destination that’s known as the birthplace of the Renaissance.

This charming city is steeped deep in art, cultural and historical roots, making it a must-see for most visitors. If you’re wondering how to spend 7 days in Italy, mix up your time with an Uffizi Gallery, David & Accademia Tour, an Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert and this time-saving Duomo Cathedral Skip-the-Line Guided Tour.

Step away from the standard sightseeing experiences and explore the region on this Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting. Want to impress your friends and family back home? Learn how to master the asrt of Italian cooking in this Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine.

Where to Stay in Florence:

Day 4 - 5: Siena

After spending a few days in Florence, head down to Siena, a medieval city that’s home to a UNESCO-listed historic centre.

Siena is surrounded by a well-preserved 1,000-year-old wall, giving it an alluring ambience. In this leg of your 1 week in Italy, you’ll uncover the world of experiences on offer in Siena.

Stroll the city on a Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Duomo Tickets and don’t miss this iconic Cathedral and Crypt & Museum Tour. Head outdoors on a Horseback Riding Tour in the Siena Countryside and spice up your sightseeing on this Brunello di Montalcino Guided Wine Tour W/ Lunch.

Where to Stay in Siena:

Day 6 - 7: Montepulciano

Wind up your 1 week Italy itinerary in the medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano. This quaint part of Tuscany is scattered with vineyards and an old-world feel.

Montepulciano is well-known known for its vino nobile red wine, so be sure to pack plenty of room for some wine-tasting experiences. Stop by the Torre di Pulcinella clock tower, the Piazza Grande and the 14th-century Palazzo Comunale. Spend your days winding through the Renaissance palaces and get in touch with the authenticity of true Tuscan lifestyle.

Where to Stay in Montepulciano:

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Northern Route: Milan, Lake Como and Venice

lake como in italy itinerary

This 7 days in Italy itinerary takes you into an iconic inventory of the north most popular spots.

You’ll dabble in the wonder of Milan’s top attractions, before boarding a high-speed train to Lake Como.

After spending a few days in hot spots like Varenna and Bellagio, you’ll then make your way across to the east side’s canal-crazed city, Venice.

Here’s a quick snapshot of your one week itinerary:

  • Day 1 - 2: Milan

  • Day 3 - 5: Lake Como

  • Day 5 - 7: Venice

Day 1 - 2: Milan

Kick off your 1 week in Italy itinerary in Italy’s fashion capital, Milan. Home to some of the country's major fashion brands, this is one of the best places for shopping Italy.

Give your credit card a workout in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, watch a performance inside the luxurious Opera House and swing by the notorious Duomo di Milano. Among the multitude of museums, attractions and art galleries, don’t miss Da Vinci’s Last Supper and the rooftop terraces of the Milan Cathedral. Mix up your sightseeing and learn how to make pizza & gelato.

Where to Stay in Milan:

Day 3 - 4: Lake Como

You may be wondering if it’s possible to spend 7 days in Italy on a budget, and there’s no doubt that this next destination will arouse some concern. Lake Como is famous for its waterfront restaurants, gorgeous gardens and luxurious villas.

From the Classic Speedboats to the Winery Tours and Tastings, it’s easy to fall in love with this part of Italy. Book this Food Walking Tour or this Lugano and Bellagio Boat Cruise to see the best of the region.

And if you’re a budget traveller or backpacker, your time in Lake Como can still be just as magical. Read about my stay in Briisa de Ness, one of the top budget hotels in Lake Como.

Where to Stay in Lake Como:

Day 5 - 7: Venice

Wrap up the last of your 1 week in Italy in the ever-enchanting Venice.

Carved by winding canals, labyrinth-like streets and awe-inspiring architecture, Venice is home to a huge haul of things to do. Spark the travel bug within as you marvel at the myriad glass workshops, unique shops and postcard-worth Venetian alleyways.

See more in less time on a Venice highlights tour or catch the city from a different perspective on a traditional gondola ride. Mix up your last few days in Italy and take a day trip to Burano & Murano.

Where to Stay in Venice:

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The East Coast: Rome, Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre

This Italy itinerary for 7 days takes you into a handful of historical hot spots and quaint coastal villages. You’ll begin your journey in ancient Rome, before travelling up north to Tuscany’s capital, Florence. Spot the sights and marvel at the museums, before making your way to Piza and colourful Cinque Terre. Here’s a quick look at this one week itinerary:

  • Day 1 - 2: Rome

  • Day 3 - 5: Florence and Pisa

  • Day 6 - 7: Cinque Terre

Day 1 - 2: Rome

Kick off your 7 days in Italy in the country’s capital city, Rome. Famous for its architecture, cuisine and colourful culture, this is undoubetly the best place to start your trip.

Taste the best gelato in Rome, explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel and don’t miss a Guided Tour of Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Take a break from the sightseeing and get creative in a Pasta Making Class with Wine, Limoncello, and Dessert or get social on this Trastevere or Jewish Quarter Street Food Tour.

Where to Stay in Rome:

Day 3 - 5: Florence and Pisa

After spending two days in Rome, make your way towards the Tuscany region. Fill the middle leg of your one week in Italy with all things ‘La Dolce Vita’.

Master the art of Italian cuisine with this Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine and escape to the countryside on this Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting.

You’ll fall head over heels for Pisa and Florence as you come face to face with some of the country’s most iconic attractions. Cross over Pisa’s Arno River and admire Florence’s Renaissance gems. See the photo-worthy Leaning Tower of Pisa and squawk over David’s dangly bits in the famous Accademia Gallery.

Where to Stay in Florence and Pisa:

Day 6 - 7: Cinque Terre

This next part of the Italy itinerary invites you to one of the country’st most idyllic destinations, Cinque Terre.

The Italian Riviera is dotted with vibrant, cliff-hanging towns that are packed with character and colour. Cinque terre is made up of five towns and these former fishing villages are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

Take a kayak tour in Cinque Terre from Monterosso, cruise around Riomaggiore, Monterosso & Vernazza and learn to make authentic pesto in Manarola. Spice up your sightseeing and dive deep underwater on this discover scuba diving tour in Cinque Terre.

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre:

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Sicilian Route: Palermo, Taormina and Catania

Spend 1 week in Italy, the Sicilian way! This picturesque part of Italy is located at the tip of the boot and it’s undoubtedly the best spot for a summer escape. You’ll explore the lyrical landscapes and landmarks, from the Valley of Temples to bubbling Mount Etna. Among the delicious wine and intriguing mafia origins, you’ll enjoy a mix of history, food and water activities. Here’s a breakdown of this one week itinerary:

  • Day 1 - 2: Palermo

  • Day 3 - 5: Taormina

  • Day 6 - 7: Catania

Day 1 - 2: Palermo

Begin your one week in Italy in Palermo, the capital city of Sicily.

This city is over 2,700 years old and is well-known for its architecture, culture and history. Get creative in the kitchen with a Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine or hit the high seas on a Zingaro, Scopello, & San Vito Lo Capo Boat Day Trip.

For more beach fun and activities, head out on this full-day Snorkelling Boat Tour or on this iconic Capo Gallo Private Boat Tour. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.

Where to Stay in Palermo:

Day 3 - 5: Taormina

After spending two days in Palermo, make your way across to the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’, Taormina.

Sitting on the top of Mount Tauro, this city boasts breathtaking sea vistas. Taormina is teeming with top attractions and activities, and it may even be the highlight of this 1 week Italy itinerary.

Explore on a Boat Tour in Isola Bella, see an Opera Performance in the Nazarena Theatre and don’t miss this Etna and Alcantara Gorges Full-Day Tour. Get crafty in the kitchen with this Sicilian Cooking Class and wrap up your time with a stunning Sunset Coastline Boat Tour & Dolphin Watching experience.

Where to Stay in Taormina:

Day 6 - 7: Catania

Spend your final days in Sicily in Catania, an ancient port city that sits on the east coast.

Tucked on the cusp of Mt. Etna, an active volcano, you can just imagine how good the views are. Spend the afternoons in the city's central square, Piazza del Duomo and toss a coin into the Fontana dell'Elefante statue.

Swing by the striking Catania Cathedral, go shopping at La Pescheria weekday fish market and hit the seas on a Cyclops Coast Cruise. Don’t miss out on Sicily’s most famous natural attraction and ignite the spirit of adventure on this Mount Etna Trek with a 4x4 Option.

Where to Stay in Catania:

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Dolomites

dolomites italy

The Dolomites is a year-round destination that’s famous for its rugged mountains, undulating slopes and nonpareil natural splendour.

Whether you’re a fan of adrenaline-filled activities, multi-day hikes or luxury mountain escapes, this 7 day itinerary will have you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re wondering how to spend 7 days in Italy, look no further than the Dolomites Alps. The winter season is perfect for skiing and snowsports, while the warmer months calls for mountain climbing, hiking and cycling aplenty.

This mountain range in northeastern Italy forms a part of the stunning Southern Limestone Alps and spans from the west’s River Adige to the east’s Piave Valley. Here’s a quick look at this one week itinerary:

  • Day 1: San Candido

  • Day 2: Rifugio Locatelli & Tre Cime di Laveredo

  • Day 3: Prato Piazza

  • Day 4: Lago di Braies

  • Day 5: Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park

  • Day 6: Alta Biada & Rifugio Gardenaccia

  • Day 7: San Silvestro and Trento

Kick off your 7 days in the Dolomites in the beating heart of San Candido. Spend a short amount of time in this alpine town before walking up to a cosy rifugio (mountain hut).

The next morning, buckle up your walking boots and fuel up for the day, before embarking on a multiday trek to Rifugio Locatelli. This iconic 3-hour hike winds through some seriously spectacular scenery and you’ll see sights like the Torre di Toblin and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo).

The following day, continue downhill trail to Prato Piazza and spend the evening admiring the awe-inspiring landscapes. Then, head all the way up to the San Silvestro Valley and discover the beauty of the Selva-Wolkenstein Village.

Don’t miss out on highlights like Braies Lake, the Valun de Fanes meadow and the Gardenaccia Rifugio. Stop by the Cavallo Pass and set aside plenty of time to explore the idyllic Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park.

Wind up your one week in the Dolomites Alps in the quaint ski village of La Villa Stern. Wrap up your active week in Trento and indulge in local Italian cuisine and relaxing experiences. After a full week of hiking, why not treat yourself to a splurge-worthy spa experience?!

 

7-Day Italy Itinerary: The Sardinian Route: Olbia, Sassari and Cagliari

Sardinia, locally known as 'Sardegna', is one of the most underrated destinations in Italy. It’s definitely not considered a mainstream Mediterranean hot spot, and it’s surprising just how much there is to do here.

Sitting in the west of mainland Italy and just south of Corsica, Sardinia covers over 1,800 kilometres of stunning coastline. This Italian gem is famous for serene beaches, turquoise waters and mind-boggling rock formations. Here’s a quick breakdown of this one week Italy itinerary:

  • Day 1 - 3: Olbia

  • Day 4 - 5: Sassari

  • Day 6 - 7: Cagliari

Day 1 - 3: Olbia

Kick off your 1 week in Italy on Sardinia’s northeast coast. Olbia is known for its medieval San Simplicio Basilica and buzzing central square, Piazza Matteotti.

Escape the city buzz on a Tavolara and Molara Snorkeling Boat Tour, get active on a Kayak Tour with Dolphins and channel your inner wine connoisseur on a Gallura Winery Guided Tour. Hit the high seas on this Full-Day Boat Tour to the Maddalena Archipelago or check out this Dolphin Watching & Snorkelling Boat Tour near Figarolo.

Where to Stay in Olbia:

Day 4 - 5: Sassari

In this next leg of the 7 day Italy itinerary, you’ll venture to the northwest of Sardinia to Sassari.

This region has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, so you can only imagine the amount of history that’s tucked on every corner. Have an aperitif in Piazza d'Italia, visit the Baroque Cathedral of San Nicola and don’t miss the Renaissance-style Church of Santa Maria di Betlem.

Get your heart rate up on this Guided Quad Bike Tour and mix up your sightseeing on this Guided Horseback Ride at Lake Baratz & Porto Ferro.

Where to Stay near Sassari:

Day 6 - 7: Cagliari

Wrap up your 7 days in Italy in Cagliari, the capital city of Sardinia.

This iconic city is well-known for its hilltop Castello, which is a picturesque medieval walled quarter that’s tucked high over the rest of the town. Pop by the array of architectural gems like the 13th-century Cagliari Cathedral and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari. For history, culture and food, you can’t go wrong with a few days in Cagliari.

Where to Stay in Cagliari:

 

Italy Itinerary for 10 and 14 Days

italy itinerary in florence

If you want to spend more than 1 week in Italy, there are plenty of itinerary ideas to choose from.

Whether you want to experience the gourmet gastronomy in Bologna or beach hop in Sicily, every corner of this country has something to offer.

Here’s a couple route suggestions on how to spend 10 and 14 days in Italy:

Italy Itinerary 10 Days

  • Day 1 - 3: Rome

  • Day 4 - 6: Florence (optional day trip to Pisa)

  • Day 7 - 8: Milan (optional day trip to Lake Como)

  • Day 9 - 10: Venice

Italy Itinerary 14 Days

  • Day 1 - 3: Rome

  • Day 4 - 6: Florence (optional day trip to Pisa or Bologna)

  • Day 7 - 8: Cinque Terre

  • Day 9 - 11: Milan (optional day trip to Lake Como)

  • Day 12 - 14: Venice

 

Best Time to Visit Italy

The best time to visit Italy depends on your travel budget, personal style and preferences. Travelling in Italy offers a wealth of experiences year-round, from the snowy slopes in the Dolomites to sparkling beaches in Sardinia.

Generally, the best time to plan a holiday in Italy can also come down to your preferences for weather, crowds, activities and the types of experiences you want to have. Here's a basic breakdown of what to expect in each season:

Spring

From March to May, you can expect pleasant temperatures, colourful landscapes and lots of sightseeing opportunities. The crowds are moderate compared to the summer season, and you’ll find that the big cities and popular tourist destinations are still buzzing. Spring is one of the best times to experience Italy’s cultural events and outdoor scenery. If you plan on exploring the cities and big attractions, this is an ideal time to do so.

Summer

From June to August, the peak tourist season in Italy takes place. The weather is hot and sunny, especially in southern Italy. You can expect long days, warm evenings and lots of sunshine, making it the perfect time for beach activities and water sports. As it’s the busiest time in Italy, you’ll have to pay higher prices on accommodation, airfares and activities.

Autumn

From September to November, the weather in Italy is quite mild. This is the best time to visit for the wine harvests, cultural events and fall festivities. If you choose to plan your Italy vacation during the autumn months, you can expect fewer crowds and more affordable prices on accommodation and airfares.

Winter

From December to February, Italy’s low season takes place. In the north, temperatures are notoriously cold and snowy, while in the south, the weather can be more moderate. This is the least popular time to visit Italy, apart from Christmas and New Years. If you visit Italy during the winter, you can enjoy highlights like the Christmas Markets, skiing and snow sports in the Alps and fewer tourists.

 

How to Get Around Italy

Now that you know how to spend 7 days in Italy, it’s time to figure out the best way to get around. There are many advantages of hiring a car and exploring at your own pace, but public transport also offers adventure for an affordable price.

Whether you prefer high-speed trains, overnight buses or rental vehicles, we’ll cover everything you need to know in this guide. Here are the main ways to get around Italy:

Trains

Getting around Italy is a cinch thanks to its well-developed train network. Catching the train is a fast and reliable way of transport for your 7-day Italy itinerary and the train network connects major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan.

Two of the major train operators in Italy are Trenitalia (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca) and Italo. If you’re planning a vacation in Italy during the summer season, be sure to book your train tickets online and in advance. Find out more about trains in Italy here.

Here are some of the most popular train routes in Italy:

  • Rome to Florence: 1 hour and 30 minutes

  • Rome to Milan: 3 hours

  • Rome to Venice: 3 hours and 32 minutes

  • Rome to Naples: 2 hours

  • Milan to Lake Como: 40 minutes

  • Milan to Venice: 2 hours and 35 minutes

  • Florence to Cinque Terre: 2 hours and 30 minutes

  • Florence to Venice: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Buses

Italy’s bus network is well-connected and offers a budget-friendly alternative for travellers. Regional and intercity buses connect the big cities and rural areas, making it an ideal option for those areas where train services are limited. Buses are the best way of getting around Italy for budget travellers and backpackers, as they can be cheaper than most trains.

No matter what season you travel in, be sure to check schedules in advance, especially for trains and buses. The timetables can vary by season and day of the week, with limited to no services during the winter or off-peak periods. Find out more about buses in Italy here.

Rental Cars

Hiring a car for your week in Italy will offer you freedom, flexibility and the ability to set your own schedule. With your own vehicle, you’ll be able to travel at your preferred pace and make as many stops or detours as you please. Plus, you can reach more remote areas that may not be accessible via public transport.

You can hire a car in Italy from any of the major cities or airports. To save money, be sure to book a car online and in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the high season. Hire a car in Italy here.

Travel tip: Driving in Italy can make for a memorable experience, but watch out for ZTL (limited traffic zones) in the city centres. These are areas where only authorised vehicles or local residents can enter.

 
 

Top Travel Tips for Your Italy Itinerary

To ensure that your Italy itinerary goes as smoothly as possible, there are a few factors to consider beforehand. Brush up on the basics with these travel tips:

  • Cut costs down using the Milan Pass, Firenze Card and Rome Pass

  • Purchase a local SIM card in Italy. Check out my full guide on the Best eSIMs for Europe

  • If you’re looking for the fastest way of getting around Italy, opt for a high-speed train or catch a flight 

  • Purchase fresh food and delicacies at the local markets, not from the major chain stores 

  • Pack some layers! Some destinations in Italy (particularly in the north) can get very chilly, even in the summertime 

  • Brush up on some basic Italian vocabulary – locals really appreciate the effort

  • Italy uses the euro currency

  • A lot of stores, museums and attractions are closed on Sundays

  • If you’re a non-EU resident, make sure you get an International Drivers License

  • Set up a travel budget and make a savings plan for your Italy trip

  • Save money by booking flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance

  • Be spontaneous and get off the tourist trail

  • If you want to dive deeper, set aside time for a 2 or 3 week Italy itinerary

  • Master the art of scoring cheap flights

  • Ditch high season! The best month to visit Italy is in April, May, September or October

  • Master packing light so you can avoid the extra baggage fees

  • Back yourself up with travel insurance

  • Take advantage of the free walking tours in major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan

 

Planning an Epic European Trip?

If you’re planning a vacation in Europe, I’ve got you covered. Whether you want to discover the castles in Hungary or the palaces in Portugal, there’s an itinerary here that’s fit for you.

Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, friends or a loved one, these itineraries won’t disappoint. Check out these different route ideas:

FAQs

Is 7 days enough for Italy?

If it’s your first time visiting Italy, you may be wondering how much time is enough. 7 days in Italy is ideal for a first trip and one week will give you enough time to see 3 major cities. Plus, depending on your itinerary, you may even be able to do a full-day trip out to the countryside or coastline.

Where is the best place to go in Italy for a week?

For a first time visit to Italy, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the endless list of top travel destinations. I’d recommend visiting the ‘big three’ of Italy, which is Rome, Florence and Venice. That way, you can see a mix of the top attractions like Rome’s Colosseum and Vatican City, Florence’s Uffizi Gallery and Venice’s Saint Mark’s Basilica and Teatro La Fenice.

How much money do you need for 7 days in Italy?

The total cost for a 1 week Italy itinerary comes down to your personal preferences and travel budget. Generally, a 7 day trip to Italy costs around €1,000 for one person or €2,000 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, public transport and sightseeing passes. The total cost can vary depending on whether you prefer budget, mid-range or luxury travel experiences.

How to decide where to go in Italy?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-timer, deciding where to go in Italy can be quite the challenge. The south is ideal for beach lovers and local experiences, while the north offers gourmet cuisine and luxe winter experiences. Milan is best for fashion and shopping, Rome is popular for sightseeing and Venice has a huge haul of unique attractions.

Why Should You Spend 7 Days in Italy?

Delectable food, awe-inspiring art, age-old architecture and oh so much more, Italy is packed with an iconic inventory of highlights. From the lemon-fringed coastal towns to the rural countryside villages, every inch of this country is oozing with charm.

One week is enough to scratch the surface, and there’s no doubt it’ll leave you wanting to come back again. Before you jet-set off on your 7 day Italy itinerary, be sure to save this guide!

Jessica Bergin https://www.jessbergin.com
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