Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I’m thrilled to share with you an 11-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome during the
Day 1: Arrival in Venice
Welcome to the floating city of Venice! After settling into your accommodation, head to the iconic St. Mark’s Square and marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica. Explore the Doge’s Palace, the former residence of the Venetian rulers, and take a gondola ride through the city’s picturesque canals. End your day with a stroll across the Rialto Bridge and indulge in some delicious cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at Osteria Al Portego.
Day 2: Exploring the Venetian Islands
Today, you’ll venture out to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. In Murano, witness the art of glass blowing and visit the famous Murano Glass Museum. Then, head to Burano, known for its colorful houses and intricate lace-making tradition. For dinner, I recommend Trattoria da Lino, where you can savor fresh seafood caught daily.
Day 3: Art and Culture in Venice
Immerse yourself in Venice’s rich artistic heritage by visiting the Accademia Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Venetian art. Afterward, explore the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcasing modern and contemporary masterpieces. In the evening, consider attending a performance at the historic La Fenice Opera House for a truly unforgettable experience.
Day 4: Day Trip to Verona
Take a day trip to the romantic city of Verona, famous for its connection to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Visit Juliet’s Balcony and the Arena di Verona, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that hosts operas and concerts during the summer months. On your way back to Venice, stop at a local winery in the Valpolicella region for a wine tasting.
Day 5: Arrival in Florence
Bid farewell to Venice and travel to the beautiful city of Florence. Upon arrival, head to the iconic Duomo and admire its stunning Renaissance architecture. Then, explore the Piazza della Signoria, home to impressive sculptures and the Palazzo Vecchio. For dinner, I suggest Osteria dell’Enoteca, where you can savor authentic Tuscan cuisine.
Day 6: Florence’s Art and Viewpoints
Start your day at the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, housing an unparalleled collection of Renaissance art. Afterward, cross the Ponte Vecchio and climb to the Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views of Florence. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Florentine steak at Il Latini, a local favorite.
Day 7: Tuscan Hill Towns
Embark on a day trip to the charming Tuscan hill towns of Siena and San Gimignano. In Siena, explore the iconic Piazza del Campo and the stunning Siena Cathedral. Then, continue to San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and delicious gelato. If time permits, consider stopping at a winery in the Chianti region for a tasting and lunch.
Day 8: Arrival in Rome
Today, you’ll travel to the Eternal City of Rome. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city’s ancient history by visiting the iconic Colosseum and the Roman Forum. End your day by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain and making a wish to return to Rome. For dinner, I recommend Armando al Pantheon, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Roman classics.
Day 9: Exploring Vatican City
Dedicate a full day to exploring the wonders of Vatican City. Start your visit at the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, then marvel at the masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. In the evening, treat yourself to some of Rome’s famous pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) at Pizzarium.
Day 10: Rome’s Iconic Sights
On your final day in Rome, visit the iconic Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings. Stroll through the lively Piazza Navona and climb the famous Spanish Steps. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming Trastevere neighborhood and savor your last Italian meal at a cozy trattoria.
Day 11: Departure from Rome
Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to Italy. Before your departure, take one last stroll through the city, savoring the sights, sounds, and flavors that have made your trip so memorable.
General Travel Tips for Venice, Florence, and Rome
- Book your tickets for popular attractions like the Vatican Museums and the Uffizi Gallery in advance to avoid long queues.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as exploring these cities involves a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, to avoid pickpockets.
- Try to learn a few basic Italian phrases to better connect with locals and enhance your experience.
- Embrace the Italian lifestyle by indulging in leisurely meals and enjoying the vibrant piazzas and cafés.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to plan an unforgettable trip to Italy, filled with authentic experiences, delicious cuisine, and a deep appreciation for the country’s rich history and culture. Remember, the best way to truly immerse yourself in a destination is to embrace the local way of life and step off the beaten path. Buon viaggio!