Italy Travel Itinerary 10 Days: A Fantastic Guide You’ll Love

Why a 10-Day Italy Itinerary is Perfect

So, you’re planning a trip to Italy and you’ve got 10 days to play with? Honestly, that’s a sweet spot. Ten days is enough time to see a lot without feeling like you’re racing through the country. With the right plan (which you’re about to get right here), you can soak in the sights, enjoy the food, and still have time to just… breathe it all in.

This Italy travel itinerary 10 days guide is something I’ve put together based on my own trips and the kind of travel I personally love – not just running from landmark to landmark, but making room for real experiences: a perfect slice of pizza in Naples, a lazy afternoon in a Cinque Terre village, or watching the sun set over Venice with a spritz in hand.

Here’s what this guide will help you do:

• ✈️ Visit 5 to 6 amazing places without spending half your trip on transport
• 🍝 Try iconic dishes in the cities they actually come from
• 🏛️ See some of Italy’s most famous landmarks (without the usual stress)
• 💸 Save money with smart tips I’ve learned the hard way

And honestly, if you’re looking for a solid Italy travel itinerary 10 days that mixes must-sees with time to actually enjoy them, you’re in the right place.

If that sounds like your kind of trip, then let’s get into it. This is how you plan an unforgettable 10 day Italy travel itinerary – without blowing your budget or your energy.

Day 1–3: Rome – Start Your 10 Day Italy Tour in the Eternal City

If this is your first time in Italy, starting in Rome just makes sense. It’s a big, buzzing mix of old-school ruins, Vespa engines, street life, and absolutely incredible food. I always say – if you’re going to begin your Italy travel itinerary 10 days anywhere, it should be in the Eternal City.

You’ve got three days here, and you’ll need every one of them. Don’t stress about seeing everything – just soak in the magic, hit the highlights, and leave room to wander a bit. Honestly, Rome sets the tone perfectly for the kind of trip this Italy travel itinerary 10 days is all about – epic sights, amazing food, and plenty of those “wow” moments.

Day 1: Ancient Wonders & Aperitivo in Trastevere

Wake up early, grab a strong espresso, and make your way to the Colosseum. I always recommend booking ahead (seriously, skip-the-line tickets are a lifesaver). From there, it’s a short walk to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill – it feels like you’re walking through a movie set. Several of these landmarks are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which shows just how much history you’re standing in.

Later in the day, head over the river to Trastevere. It’s got this cozy, lived-in vibe I love tiny alleyways, local wine bars, laundry hanging from balconies. Grab dinner at a place where the locals eat, and don’t overthink it. If the menu’s small and the tables are full, you’re in the right spot.

Day 2: Vatican Views & Lazy Piazza Wandering

Today’s the day to visit the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. It gets busy fast, so the earlier the better. Even if you’re not into art, the Sistine Chapel will blow you away.

After all that, give your brain a break. Grab a gelato (yes, even in the morning you’re on vacation) and take a slow stroll through the city. Hit up Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, or just wander aimlessly. That’s how you find the real gems.

Day 3: Coins, Views, and That Rome Feeling

Your last day in Rome is all about those classic Italian moments. Start at the Trevi Fountain and toss in a coin – the legend says it means you’ll come back (and I’ve tested this… it works).

Then maybe check out the Spanish Steps, do a bit of window shopping, or find a rooftop bar with a view. My favorite way to end a Rome visit? Spritz in hand, sun setting over the domes of the city. Pure magic.

Rome gives your italy travel itinerary 10 days the kind of start that’s hard to beat fast-paced, full of flavor, and unforgettable.

Why you should visit Rome on your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ Some of the world’s most famous landmarks in one place
✅ You can walk from ancient ruins to trendy cafes in minutes
✅ The pasta, pizza, and gelato are reason enough to stay forever

Day 4: Florence – A Day with Renaissance Vibes and Killer Views

After three intense days in Rome, landing in Florence just feels good. Everything moves a little slower here. It’s smaller, walkable, and honestly? Kind of magical. One day isn’t much, but it’s enough to get a real taste of the city and maybe even make you want to come back.

Start With the Duomo, Obviously

You can’t come to Florence and skip the Duomo. It’s that massive cathedral with the red dome that kind of defines the skyline here. I’d say go early if you want to avoid the lines, and definitely climb to the top if you’re up for it, the view is worth every step.

Museums or Just Wandering?

If you’re into art, the Uffizi Gallery is world-famous for a reason. You’ll find Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, works by Leonardo, Michelangelo… it’s basically a greatest hits of the Renaissance.

But honestly? If art museums aren’t your thing, don’t stress. Florence is just as amazing when you’re wandering with no real plan. Cross the Ponte Vecchio, poke around little artisan shops, and find a café to just sit and people-watch. That’s what I love most about this place, it’s not just about what you see, it’s how it makes you feel.

Time to Eat (This Part Is Important)

Here’s the move: grab a sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio. Yeah, there’s usually a line, but it moves quick and it’s 100% worth it. The bread is perfect, the fillings are stacked, and somehow it only costs a few euros. Sit by the river and enjoy it like a local.

Later in the afternoon, head up to Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view over Florence at sunset? Unreal. Bring a drink or some snacks and take it all in. This is what Italy is all about, and why Florence deserves a spot on any well-planned italy travel itinerary 10 days style trip.

Why you should visit Florence on your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ Classic Tuscan vibes with jaw-dropping architecture
✅ Small enough to explore in a day, rich enough to remember forever
✅ Great mix of history, art, and delicious food that won’t break the bank

Day 5–6: Cinque Terre – Colorful Cliffs, Sea Breezes & Pasta by the Water

Time to slow it down a bit. After the busy streets of Rome and the history-packed day in Florence, the next stop on your Italy travel itinerary 10 days is all about sea views, sunshine, and villages that look like they were designed just for Pinterest.

First Things First – What Is Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre means “five lands,” and yep, it’s literally five little fishing villages clinging to the Ligurian coastline. No cars inside the towns, just walking paths, boats, and trains. It’s chill, it’s insanely beautiful, and it’s perfect if you want that laid-back, Italian summer vibe, even if you’re not visiting in summer.

This spot adds something special to your Italy travel itinerary 10 days, a chance to slow down, take a breather, and just enjoy Italy in a completely different way.

Where to Stay (and How to Get Around)

I usually recommend staying in either Monterosso (the only one with a real beach) or Vernazza (super cute and great food options). The train connects all five villages, and it only takes a few minutes between each one, so no stress there.

You can also hike between them if you’re up for it, the trail from Vernazza to Corniglia is my favorite. It’s not too hard, the views are insane, and you’ll definitely earn your next meal.

What to Do in Cinque Terre (Besides Take 500 Photos)

Honestly? Just take it slow. Wake up, grab a cappuccino, go for a little walk, maybe hit the beach or hop on a boat. Eat. Nap. Repeat.

Some things not to miss:

• Sunset in Riomaggiore – trust me, it’s unreal
• Fried seafood in a paper cone (it’s called “fritto misto” and yes, you need it)
• Aperitivo with sea views – find a cliffside bar, order a spritz, and soak it all in

Spending two days here lets you slow down, recharge, and add a totally different rhythm to your italy travel itinerary 10 days.

Why you should visit Cinque Terre on your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ Breathtaking views you literally can’t stop photographing
✅ Small, walkable villages full of charm and fresh seafood
✅ The perfect mid-trip reset with beaches, hikes, and slow travel energy

Day 7: Bologna – Food, Towers & That Real Italian Vibe

If you’re anything like me, your stomach has a strong influence on your travel plans. That’s exactly why Bologna earns its spot on this Italy travel itinerary 10 days. One day here is short, but it’s just enough to eat ridiculously well, wander through medieval streets, and soak in a more local side of Italy.

First Stop: Food. Obviously.

Bologna is the food capital of Italy (and yes, I’m prepared to fight anyone who disagrees). Forget what you think you know about spaghetti bolognese – the real deal here is called tagliatelle al ragù, and it’s next-level comfort food.

Pop into a traditional trattoria – nothing fancy, just those places where the menu is handwritten, the pasta is fresh, and the wine is house-poured. You’ll walk out full and happy. Honestly, this city alone is reason enough to plan an Italy travel itinerary 10 days trip.

Climb a Tower (Or Just Pretend You Will)

After lunch, if you’re feeling brave (and not too full), head to the top of the Asinelli Tower. It’s 498 steps up, and yeah, it’s a workout – but the view over the red rooftops of Bologna is totally worth it.

If that sounds like too much after a plate of pasta, no judgment. Grab a gelato and admire the tower from below. Honestly, both experiences are valid.

Wander the Porticos & Hit the Market

Bologna’s got something no other city has – kilometers of covered walkways called porticos. They’re beautiful, historic, and a great way to walk off your meal without melting in the sun.

Make time to stop by the Quadrilatero Market. It’s full of fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade everything. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s a fun place to explore and people-watch.

Why you should visit Bologna on your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ Home of the best pasta dishes in the country (no debate)
✅ Beautiful old-world vibe with fewer tourists
✅ Great mix of history, food, and chill Italian energy

Day 8–9: Venice – Getting Lost, Eating Well, and Loving Every Minute

By the time you hit day 8 of your italy travel itinerary 10 days, you’re probably ready for something a little different. Venice delivers. No cars, no streets like you know them, just winding alleys, little bridges, and water everywhere. It’s confusing in the best way.

Day 8: Ditch the Map and Just Wander

Venice is a place where your plans don’t matter all that much. Honestly, the best thing to do here? Walk out the door and let the city take you wherever it wants.

You’ll probably end up in some cute piazza, grabbing a cappuccino and wondering if this is real life. Later, find a local cicchetti bar, it’s kind of like Italian tapas. You stand at the counter, drink a glass of wine, grab a snack, and move on. Super casual, super local.

At some point, you’ll make your way to St. Mark’s Square and yeah, it’s crowded, but it’s also gorgeous, especially in the evening when it’s all lit up. If you feel like treating yourself, grab a drink at one of the fancy cafés and just soak it in.

This part of the italy travel itinerary 10 days is really about slowing down and letting yourself get a little lost (in the best way possible).

Day 9: A Boat, a Colorful Island, and One Last Spritz

Start the day with a ride down the Grand Canal on a vaporetto (Venice’s version of public transport). It’s slow and a little chaotic, but you’ll see palaces, churches, and people going about their daily lives on the water. If you want more insight into the neighbourhoods or ferry options, Rick Steves’ Venice guide is a solid resource.

If you’re up for it, take a short ride out to Burano. It’s a small island just outside Venice, full of crazy colourful houses and quiet little streets. Not a lot to do and that’s kind of the point. Just walk, relax, take photos, eat something sweet, repeat.

Head back to Venice for your final night and find a spot by the canal. Order a spritz, maybe some olives, and just sit. That’s the Venice magic for me, doing not much of anything, but loving every second. Just one more reason why this italy travel itinerary 10 days is more about feeling than rushing.

Why you should visit Venice on your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ The only city where getting lost is the whole point
✅ Great for slowing down and soaking things up
✅ One-of-a-kind food, views, and vibes you won’t forget

Day 10: Milan or Lake Como – Your Choose-Your-Ending Moment

So here we are – day 10. The last stop on your italy travel itinerary 10 days, and honestly, it’s a great way to close things out. You’ve got two solid options depending on your mood. City vibes? Or lake escape? Totally up to you.

Option 1: Milan – Chic Streets & Cathedral Views

If you want to end with a little city sparkle, Milan’s got you. It’s modern, busy, and totally different from the rest of your trip. Visit the Duomo, maybe walk the rooftop if you’re not done with stairs, and wander through the fancy shops in the Galleria nearby.

It’s a cool contrast to the older cities from earlier in your italy travel itinerary 10 days, and a great place to grab one last aperitivo before heading home.

Option 2: Lake Como – Views, Villages & Total Chill

If the idea of boats and mountains sounds better than fashion and metros, take the train to Lake Como. Even one day here can make you feel like you’re on a whole new trip. It’s peaceful, it’s stunning, and the villages like Bellagio and Varenna are postcard-level perfect.

This is the slow-down finish your italy travel itinerary 10 days deserves. Just you, the water, some pasta, and a killer view.

Why you should visit Milan or Lake Como on your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ Milan is stylish, cultural, and great for one last taste of the city
✅ Lake Como is slow, stunning, and totally peaceful
✅ Both options make for a perfect final chapter to an amazing trip

Bonus Tips – Save Time, Money & Your Sanity While Traveling in Italy

Little things can make a big difference, especially when you’re trying to make every moment count on an italy travel itinerary 10 days type of trip.

You’ve got your route, your cities, your food stops but there are always a few things that can make or break a trip. These are the little tips I’ve picked up along the way, either through good planning… or learning the hard way.

Add these to your italy travel itinerary 10 days, and future-you will thank you.

1. Book Train Tickets in Advance (But Not Too Far)

Italy’s train system is actually super easy to use, especially with Trenitalia or Italo. If you’re traveling between major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, grab your tickets online a few weeks ahead for better prices check Trenitalia’s official site for routes and fares.

Also, validate your ticket if it’s a paper one. Look for the little green machines at the station. Skip this, and you might end up with a fine.

If you’re following this italy travel itinerary 10 days, trains will be your best friend, cheap, fast, and way less stressful than driving.

2. Travel Light. Like, Really Light.

Cobblestone streets + stairs + tiny hotel elevators = not the time for a massive suitcase. If you can swing it, pack carry-on only. It’ll make moving around way easier, especially when you’re hopping on and off trains.

3. City Cards Are Your Friend (Sometimes)

In places like Rome or Florence, look into city passes that bundle entry to popular attractions. Some come with skip-the-line access, which is gold during peak season. Just make sure the math adds up if you’re only hitting one or two sights, it might not be worth it.

4. Don’t Eat Right Next to the Big Attractions

This one’s classic but true: restaurants directly next to landmarks like the Colosseum or St. Mark’s Basilica are usually overpriced and underwhelming. Walk a few streets away, and you’ll find better food for less money and probably a more authentic experience.

5. Learn a Few Words in Italian

You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing how to say things like “per favore”, “grazie”, and “dove si trova il bagno?” (where’s the bathroom?) goes a long way. Locals appreciate the effort, and it makes your trip feel more connected.

It makes your italy travel itinerary 10 days feel more personal when you connect with locals, even if it’s just a smile and a simple “grazie.”

Why these tips matter for your Italy travel itinerary:

✅ They help you save time and avoid common travel mistakes
✅ You’ll spend less money and have a more relaxed experience
✅ A little planning = way more room for spontaneous fun, especially on a flexible italy travel itinerary 10 days

Final Thoughts – A Pretty Great Way to Spend 10 Days, Right?

And that’s it 10 days, 6+ cities, one unforgettable adventure. If you’ve followed along this far, I hope you’re feeling way more ready (and maybe even a little excited) to plan your own italy travel itinerary 10 days.

This kind of trip gives you just enough time to taste a little bit of everything, big sights, small moments, lots of carbs, and hopefully a few “wow” sunsets you’ll think about for years.

If you’re thinking, “I could’ve done a few more days…”, that’s totally fair. But honestly, there’s something special about squeezing the most out of a trip in 10 solid days. This italy travel itinerary 10 days is built exactly for that.

If you’ve got the bug now (I know the feeling), I’ve also put together a longer version too:
👉 2-Week Italy Itinerary

And if you’re into saving money while still having amazing trips, that’s kind of my thing. For official info, Italia.it is a good site to bookmark too.

You can find all my guides, tips, and budget-friendly ideas over on thomastravelcheap.com.

Thanks for reading! Hope this helped you get one step closer to your own adventure. And if you do go… eat the gelato every day. Trust me. 🍦

/Thomas

FAQ – Planning Your 10 Day Italy Travel Itinerary