7 Days in Italy (BEST Itinerary for your 2024 trip)
Italy is the 5th most visited country in the world. With an amazing Mediterranean coastline, the most UNESCO world heritage sites in the world, pizza, pasta, gelato, and amazing hospitality from the Italians, this is no surprise.
From charming narrow streets and stunning beaches, something is waiting to be discovered at every step. Each city and destination presents its unique offerings.
So if you are planning a trip to Italy, there is a lot to see and do and with limited time, you will need to develop an itinerary that allows you to maximize your stay in Italy.
The good news is that everything is easily accessible by convenient transport (mostly high-speed trains) and that makes navigating Italy easier.
From my recent experience traveling to the region, I have developed 4 sample itineraries for 7 days in Italy that will allow you to make the most of your time.
Italy has many explorable cities as well as a wonderful coastline. So you need to decide if you would like to have a city holiday, a seaside escape or a mix of both.
The country can never fully be explored in one single trip but I have found the best ways to see the most in 7 days.
In my blog post below I have compiled 4 of the best 7-day Italy itineraries for you.
What is the best itinerary for 7 days in Italy?
For first-time visitors, I would suggest exploring the major Italian cities.
Itinerary 1 – ROME – FLORENCE – VENICE (Best for first-time visitors to Italy)
- Day 1 – Rome
- Day 2 – Rome
- Day 3 – Depart Rome to Florence
- Day 4 – Florence
- Day 5 – Depart Florence to Venice
- Day 6 – Venice
- Day 7 – Depart Venice to the final destination
This itinerary is based on a recent trip I made to Italy. Structuring the trip as above will allow you to explore the main cities in Italy.
In my experience, the above itinerary was perfect to visit the relevant cities without rushing.
If you have an extra day or two, you could add an extra day to one of the cities above and make a day trip from there to a closer town or region or explore one of the nearby beaches.
Most cities in Italy are best explored on foot, so carry comfortable shoes and be prepared to wander and get lost in little narrow streets, where you will find the most wonderful eateries and shops.
I would suggest the following:
Day 1 – Rome
For your stay in Rome, plan to arrive early. Leave your bags at the hotel while the room is being prepared for the standard check-in time which is usually 2:30 pm. Then set off to explore Rome.
A good starting point would be the Spagna (Spanish steps). You take the metro to the closest point and walk from there. If you start at the top, you can walk down the steps, to the Piazza di Spagna (square at the bottom of the steps).
Then walk towards Via Del Corso towards Trevi Fountain. At the Trevi fountain, there are wonderful coffee and gelato shops. Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby eateries while you soak in the atmosphere.
After that, head further down Via Del Corso towards Foro Triano and then walk along Via Dei Fori Imperiali where you will pass the Foro Romano on the right and finally arrive at the Colosseum.
You may then head back to the hotel via metro or foot and rest for a bit.
For a spectacular sunset, go back to the Foro Triano. They have a paid elevator ride, which will take you to the top which is a great vantage point. Be sure to get there a bit early as they will not allow you in when they have reached capacity.
If you do miss the elevator as I did, then you can climb the stairs on the side of the building and this also gives you a great view of the sunset over Rome.
Afterward, head towards the Piazza Navona (one of the most famous squares in Rome. Then head back to the Trevi fountain and try some gelato at Lucciano’s.
Interesting fact: An estimated 3000 Euros is collected each day from the Trevi Fountain in Rome. This is donated to charity.
Day 2 – Rome
I recommend starting early to avoid crowds, get great pictures, and see a fantastic sunrise.
Make your way to the top of the Spanish steps where you can watch the sunrise. After that walk along Viale Trinità Dei Monto towards the Piazza Del Popolo.
Then head down Via Del Corso till you reach the Trevi Fountain where you may choose to have breakfast again or just enjoy the atmosphere.
You can then take a metro to Vatican City. This is where the Sistine Chapel (the official residence of the Pope) is located.
Start at Piazza San Pietro and walk along Via Della Conciliazione till you reach the river. As you walk along you will see Castel Sant’ Angelo.
In the opposite direction but quite further down is Gianicolo which is one of the hills. This is also a good place to watch the sunset.
You have now seen a lot of the main sites in Rome. You may use the remaining time to visit other sites or enjoy exploring the streets and trying out pasta, gelato, and Italian chocolate.
Please note that if you wish to enter any of the attractions above, you should allocate extra time.
Day 3 – Departing Rome and Arriving in Florence
Choose a mid-day train so that you can enjoy another half day in Rome.
You may end Rome, by visiting your favorite cafe or restaurant and having a leisurely last few hours in Rome.
The train to Florence from Rome takes about an hour so you should arrive at the hotel close to check-in time. During the summer months, it gets very hot at that time, so freshen up and find a good place for lunch.
During the late afternoon, it will be cooler and easier to navigate the streets. Florence is a small city and easily walkable from one end to the other within a short space
You will be within proximity to everything regardless of where you are staying.
The city is separated by the Arno River, which bridges connecting one end to the other.
The main area of Florence lies between the Arno River and the Duomo. This is where you will find the Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower, Baptistry, Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Museum, and Accademia Gallery (David).
All major attractions are close to each other so get a map and start walking your way through the streets of Florence, seeing the sites as you go along.
The main shopping area is located within the Santa Croce area.
There are many piazzas (squares) that are lined with cafes and shops where you can enjoy a meal.
On the other side of the Arno River lies the Oltrarno district where you will find the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens.
You can access the other side by crossing the Ponte Vecchio or one of the other bridges. The Ponte Vecchio in Florence is noted for its shops on the bridge. There are leather and artisanal goods shops.
Located just across the Ponte Santa Trinita bridge lies one of Florence’s most famous gelato shops, La Carraia.
Day 4 – Florence
I suggest starting the day by visiting Piazzale Michelangelo which is located across the Arno River. There are a lot of steps to climb, but well worth the effort if you make it in time for sunrise.
This is the absolute best sunrise I have witnessed in Italy.
Spend the rest of the day enjoying the magnificent streets of Florence.
Day 5 – Departing Florence
Once again, end your day in Florence by visiting your favorite breakfast spot and walking along the Arno River.
The train ride from Florence to Venice is a bit longer (just over 2 hours), so if you take a mid-day train, you will arrive in Venice late afternoon.
After arriving in Venice, you may take a private water taxi (70 Euros) to your hotel or you can opt to use the public water taxi and get off at the stop nearest to your hotel. If you choose this option, be prepared to navigate your bags through a few cobbled streets and up a few stairs.
Once you arrive at the hotel (depending on your location), this will be your base for your stay and you will most probably only use the water taxis if you need to go to another island.
After checking in, you will be just in time to get ready for a sunset dinner along the canals. You can pre-book a restaurant of your choice. If it is your first time in Venice, allocate extra time for getting to the restaurant as the streets can be tricky.
Day 6 – Venice
Venice is a charmingly beautiful destination where you can relax and savor laid-back Italian meals and desserts while wandering narrow streets amidst the grand canal.
Venice is truly unique and unlike something you experienced before.
During your stay, you should add in a Gondola ride. Gondolas all have their dedicated routes, so choose one that visits the smaller canals and touches upon the grand canal as well. You may also ask if the route covers the Bridge of Sighs. A 30-minute ride will cost you 80 Euros and for 60 minutes, 120 Euros. Sunset rides are more expensive. Also, avoid taking a ride at midday which can be hot during the summer days and the canals are also busier.
Visit San Marco Square, where you can enjoy a coffee with a live band playing. I enjoyed a quieter coffee at the hotel’s cafe which had views of the grand canal.
Visit the Rialto Bridge. There are many shops around the area as well. These do get very crowded as the streets are very narrow so opt for going earlier in the day.
You can also visit Doge’s Palace which is one of the landmarks of Venice.
Day 7 – Departing Venice for the final destination
Depending on the time of your departure, you may still have a few hours in Venice. Once again, I would suggest visiting your favorite breakfast shop, doing some last-minute shopping, and soaking in the final hours in Italy.
Itinerary 2 – ROME – NAPLES- CAPRI – AMALFI COAST (Best for exploring the Amalfi coast)
- Day 1 – Rome
- Day 2 – Rome
- Day 3 – Depart Rome to Naples
- Day 4 – Naples
- Day 5 – Naples to Capri to Positano
- Day 6 – Amalfi coast
- Day 7 – Depart Amalfi coast to the final destination
Day 1 – Rome
In Rome, you should plan to arrive early. Leave your bags at the hotel while the room is being prepared for the standard check-in time which is usually 2:30 pm. Then set off to explore Rome.
A good starting point would be the Spagna (Spanish steps). You take the metro to the closest point and walk from there. If you start at the top, you can walk down the Spanish steps, to the Piazza di Spagna (square at the bottom of the steps).
Then walk towards Via Del Corso towards Trevi Fountain. At the fountain, there are wonderful coffee and gelato shops. Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby eateries while you soak in the atmosphere.
After that, head further down Via Del Corso towards Foro Triano and then walk along Via Dei Fori Imperiali where you will pass the Foro Romano on the right and finally arrive at the Colosseum.
You may then head back to the hotel via metro or foot and rest for a bit.
For a spectacular sunset, go back to the Foro Triano. They have a paid elevator ride, which will take you to the top which is a great vantage point. Be sure to get there a bit early as they will not allow you in when they have reached capacity. If you do miss the elevator as I did, then you can climb the stairs on the side of the building and this also gives you a great view of the sunset over Rome.
After that head towards the Piazza Navona (one of the most famous squares in Rome. Then head back to the Trevi fountain and try some gelato at Lucciano’s.
Day 2 – Rome
I recommend starting early to avoid crowds, get great pictures, and see a fantastic sunrise.
Make your way to the top of the Spanish steps where you can watch the sunrise. After that walk along Viale Trinità Dei Monto towards the Piazza Del Popolo. Then head down Via Del Corso till you reach the Trevi Fountain where you may choose to have breakfast again or just enjoy the atmosphere.
You can then take a metro to Vatican City. This is where the Sistine Chapel (the official residence of the Pope) is located.
Start at Piazza San Pietro and walk along Via Della Conciliazione till you reach the river. As you walk along you will see Castel Sant’ Angelo.
In the opposite direction but quite further down is Gianicolo which is one of the hills. This is also a good place to watch the sunset.
You have now seen a lot of the main sites in Rome. You may use the remaining time to visit other sites or enjoy exploring the streets and trying out pasta, gelato, and Italian chocolate.
Please note that if you wish to enter any of the attractions above, you should allocate extra time.
Day 3 – Departing Rome and Arriving in Naples
There are no direct trains from Rome to the Amalfi coast. The best route is to take an express train from Rome to Naples. This high-speed train takes about 40 minutes.
You could go further down towards Sorrento, but this is the most popular stop on the Amalfi and can get very crowded, so Naples is a good option.
From Naples, there are many options to connect to the Amalfi coast and explore the region.
Naples is the third largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan.
Naples is the birthplace of the original Neapolitan pizza or Margherita pizza. You are sure to find some amazing pizza made with the freshest ingredients.
Naples has beautiful seaside views. Enjoy the scenery with a walk around the bay.
You can also visit one of the museums or plan a day trip to Pompeii.
Day 5 – Naples to Capri to Positano
The fastest ferry from Naples to Capri is about 50 minutes. You can explore the island of Capri as well as the Blue Grotto.
The ferry from Capri to Positano (the most famous region on the Amalfi coast) is about 40 minutes.
Day 6 – Positano, Ravello
Once you have arrived on the Amalfi coast, you can opt to stay in Positano or one of the other smaller towns.
From Positano, some buses offer links to many attractions.
Amalfi is a big region. There are hikes, beaches, cliff-top views, and towns to explore, so make a list of what you would like to do and plan accordingly.
Day 7 – Depart Amalfi coast to the final destination
You can spend your last day exploring some of the Amalfi towns while you move closer to the final point of departure.
Itinerary 3 – FLORENCE – TUSCANY – CINQUE TERRE (Best for exploring the Tuscan countryside and Cinque Terre villages)
- Day 1 – Florence
- Day 2 – Florence
- Day 3 – Tuscany
- Day 4 – Tuscany
- Day 5 – Cinque Terre
- Day 6 – Cinque Terre
- Day 7 – Depart Cinque Terre for the final destination
Day 1 – Florence
Florence is a small city and easily walkable from one end to the other within a short space.
You will be within proximity to everything regardless of where you are staying.
The city is separated by the Arno River, which bridges connecting one end to the other.
The main area of Florence lies between the Arno River and the Duomo. This is where you will find the Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower, Baptistry, Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Museum, and Accademia Gallery (David).
All major attractions are close to each other so get a map and start walking your way through the streets of Florence, seeing the sites as you go along.
The main shopping area is located within the Santa Croce area.
There are many piazzas (squares) that are lined with cafes and shops where you can enjoy a meal.
On the other side of the Arno River lies the Oltrarno district where you will find the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens.
You can access the other side by crossing the Ponte Vecchio or one of the other bridges. The Ponte Vecchio in Florence is noted for its shops on the bridge. There are leather and artisanal goods shops.
Located just across the Ponte Santa Trinita bridge lies one of Florence’s most famous gelato shops, La Carraia.
Day 2 – Florence
I suggest starting the day by visiting Piazzale Michelangelo which is located across the Arno River. There are a lot of steps to climb, but well worth the effort if you make it in time for sunrise.
This is the absolute best sunrise I have witnessed in Italy.
Spend the rest of the day enjoying the magnificent streets of Florence.
Day 3 Tuscany
The best way to explore the Tuscan countryside is by renting a car or through a guided tour. There are many tour packages that you can book.
Tuscany is best enjoyed by viewing the beautiful scenery, tasting Tuscan cuisine, and experiencing Italian hospitality.
There are many luxurious hotels and spas you can book for an extended stay.
Day 4 – Tuscany
Relax and explore the Tuscan hills.
Day 5 – Departing Tuscany for Cinque Terre
If you opt for hiring a car to explore Tuscany, you can ride the countryside hills and pass through the towns of Lucca and Pisa.
The extended drive of about 2 hours will then take you towards Cinque Terre. Note that the drive to La Spezia entails narrow roads which may be overwhelming for some.
If you have not opted to hire a car, you will be heading back to Florence city center where you can catch a train to La Spezia.
From La Spezia, you can catch the 5 Terre Express. This is the train that connects all 5 villages of the Cinque Terre. You may hop on and off as you wish.
If you hire a car, you will park your car in La Spezia and access the villages all by train.
The Cinque Terre is best explored by foot or through the connecting 5 Terre Express Train.
Day 6 – Cinque Terre
There are many hiking options, beach sides, and beautiful cliffside views that you can enjoy.
Day 7 – Depart Cinque Terre for the final destination
As you will not be flying out from Cinque Terre, you will need to head back to your city of departure.
Itinerary 4 – VENICE – BURANO- MILAN – LAKE COMO (Best for exploring the north of Italy)
- Day 1 – Venice
- Day 2 – Venice
- Day 3 – Burano
- Day 4 – Depart Venice for Milan
- Day 5 – Milan
- Day 6 – Lake Como
- Day 7 – Depart Milan for the final destination
Day 1 and 2 – Venice
Venice is a charmingly beautiful destination where you can relax and savor laid-back Italian meals and desserts while wandering narrow streets amidst the grand canal.
Venice is truly unique and unlike something you experienced before.
During your stay, you should add in a Gondola ride. Gondolas all have their dedicated routes, so choose one that visits the smaller canals and touches upon the grand canal as well. You may also ask if the route covers the Bridge of Sighs. A 30-minute ride will cost you 80 Euros and for 60 minutes, 120 Euros. Sunset rides are more expensive. Also, avoid taking a ride at midday which can be hot during the summer days and the canals are also busier.
Visit San Marco Square, where you can enjoy a coffee with a live band playing. I enjoyed a quieter coffee at the hotel’s cafe which had views of the grand canal.
Visit the Rialto Bridge. There are many shops around the area as well. These do get very crowded as the streets are very narrow so opt for going earlier in the day.
You can also visit Doge’s Palace which is one of the landmarks of Venice.
Day 3 – Island of Burano day trip
Burano is 45 minutes by water taxi from Venice.
This is the little fishing village with its colored houses and fishing boats lining the canals.
It’s a beautiful little place where you can experience an authentic Italian village, where life is simple but beautiful.
Day 4 – Depart Venice for Milan
The high-speed train from Venice to Milan takes about 2.5 hours. I opted for a late checkout so that I could spend most of the day in Venice and took a late afternoon train to Milan.
Day 5 – Milan
The main attractions in Milan are the Duomo and Leonardo’s last supper.
Known as the fashion capital, Milan is home to many high-end shops.
If you would like to do some shopping you can get off at the Montenapoleone station and walk towards the Duomo. You will find most of the stores in that area.
Day 6 – Lake Como/Beach near Milan
Lake Como is a short 40-minute train ride from Milan.
There are boat tours of the lake.
You can also access the village of Brunate via funicular. The journey to Brunate is 7 minutes. The village is located 700 m above sea level.
There are many beaches within an hour of Milan. If You can plan a day trip to any of these beaches if you prefer.
Day 7 – Depart Milan for the final destination
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in Milan before heading back home.
My Tips for your Italy trip
- Book tickets in advance to skip the line
- High-speed trains are a fast and convenient way to travel from one city to another
- You can base in one city and plan day trips to close attractions and regions
- Travel carry-on only as this makes it much easier to navigate internal travel via trains
- Do not be tempted to push too many places into the itinerary as you will be left exhausted and not able to fully experience end enjoy each place
FAQ:
Is 7 days enough in Italy?
From charming cities to small countryside villages as well as a long stretch of coastline, there is much to see and do in Italy.
While the entire region cannot be explored in 7 days, there is a lot that you can experience with proper planning.
You should decide whether you want to explore the major cities, the seaside or both.
Is it worth going to Italy for week?
Yes, 7 Days in Italy is sufficient to experience a true Authentic Italian holiday.
See Also: