Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized 11-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful cities of Verona, Venice, and Florence in
Day 1: Exploring the Romantic City of Verona
Kick off your Italian adventure in the charming city of Verona. Start your day at the iconic Verona Arena, a stunning Roman amphitheater that still hosts operas and concerts. Stroll through the lively Piazza Bra and visit Juliet’s House, the famous setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Don’t miss the picturesque Ponte Scaligero bridge over the Adige River. For dinner, I recommend Osteria dal Cavaliere, a cozy trattoria serving delicious local cuisine.
Day 2: Discovering Verona’s Hidden Gems
Begin your day at the magnificent Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, a Romanesque masterpiece. Next, explore the Castelvecchio, a 14th-century castle housing an impressive art collection. In the afternoon, wander through the lively Piazza delle Erbe, Verona’s historic market square. For dinner, try Bottega del Vino, a charming wine bar with an excellent selection of local wines and delectable small plates.
Day 3: Day Trip to Lake Garda
Escape the city for a day and explore the breathtaking Lake Garda. Start your journey in the picturesque town of Sirmione, known for its thermal spas and the stunning Scaliger Castle. Then, head to Malcesine, a charming lakeside village with a cable car offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For lunch, I suggest Ristorante Belvedere in Malcesine, which offers delicious local cuisine and stunning lake views.
Day 4: Verona’s Parks and Gardens
Spend a relaxing day exploring Verona’s beautiful parks and gardens. Start at the Giardino Giusti, a Renaissance-style garden with stunning architecture and lush greenery. Then, stroll across the Ponte Pietra, an ancient Roman bridge, and visit the Castel San Pietro, a hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the city. For dinner, try Locanda Ristori, a cozy trattoria serving traditional Veronese dishes.
Day 5: Valpolicella Wine Region
Indulge in a day trip to the renowned Valpolicella wine region, located just outside Verona. Visit local wineries, such as Trattoria Dall’Amico and Osteria La Graspa, for guided tours and tastings of the region’s famous Amarone and Ripasso wines. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the wineries, savoring the local cuisine and stunning vineyard views.
Day 6: Arrival in Venice
Bid farewell to Verona and travel to the enchanting city of Venice. Upon arrival, head straight to the iconic St. Mark’s Square and marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Cross the famous Rialto Bridge and explore the vibrant markets and shops along the Grand Canal. For dinner, I recommend Trattoria da Luca, a cozy trattoria serving authentic Venetian cuisine.
Day 7: Exploring the Canals of Venice
Embrace the true Venetian experience by taking a gondola ride through the city’s picturesque canals. Afterward, visit the Murano island, famous for its glass-making tradition, and tour a glass factory to witness the skilled artisans at work. For dinner, try Osteria Al Portego, a charming osteria serving delicious Venetian seafood dishes.
Day 8: Arrival in Florence
Depart Venice and travel to the Renaissance city of Florence. Upon arrival, head to the iconic Piazza del Duomo and admire the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s famous David sculpture. For dinner, I suggest Trattoria Sabatino, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Tuscan cuisine.
Day 9: Florence’s Art and Architecture
Spend the day exploring Florence’s rich artistic heritage. Visit the renowned Uffizi Gallery, home to an incredible collection of Renaissance art. Stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge, lined with jewelry shops. End your day at the Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views of the city skyline. For dinner, try Osteria dell’Enoteca, a cozy wine bar with an excellent selection of Tuscan wines and delectable small plates.
Day 10: Tuscany Countryside
Embark on a day trip to the picturesque Tuscany countryside. Visit the medieval hilltop town of Siena, famous for its stunning Piazza del Campo and Gothic cathedral. Then, explore the charming town of San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and delicious gelato. For lunch, I recommend Il Latini in Florence, a lively trattoria serving hearty Tuscan fare.
Day 11: Farewell to Florence
On your final day in Florence, take the opportunity to explore any areas you may have missed or revisit your favorite spots. Indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and local products, such as leather goods, ceramics, and Tuscan wines. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cozy trattoria before departing for your next destination.
General Travel Tips for Verona, Venice, and Florence
- Book tickets for major attractions and museums in advance to avoid long queues.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as these cities are best explored on foot.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, to avoid pickpockets.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Embrace the Italian lifestyle by indulging in leisurely meals and enjoying the local wine and cuisine.
I hope this itinerary inspires you to explore the rich history, culture, and beauty of Verona, Venice, and Florence. Remember, the best way to experience Italy is to immerse yourself in the local way of life, savor the authentic flavors, and embrace the warm hospitality of the Italian people. Buon viaggio!