From the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice and the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, Italy is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. However, with so much to see and do, planning an itinerary can be overwhelming. And especially if you’ve only got one week to spend in the country. But fear not, as we’ve already assembled the perfect one week Italy itinerary for you!
Balancing between iconic landmarks, delectable cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, this guide ensures that you savor every moment of your Italian odyssey. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a lover of fine food, this itinerary will help you experience the essence of Italy in the most memorable and enriching way.
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Itinerary Overview
Starting up with a quick overview of our trip, which is going to start in Rome and end in Venice.
| When? | City | Activities |
| Day 1 | Rome | Colosseum, Roman Forum, Piazza Navona |
| Day 2 | Rome & Vatican | Vatican, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Trastevere |
| Day 3 | Florence | Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, Arno River and Ponte Vecchio |
| Day 4 | Florence and Tuscany Day Trip | Accademia Gallery, Tuscan countryside trip |
| Day 5 | Venice | St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Gondola ride |
| Day 6 | Venice | Rialto Market, Cannaregio district, Venetian Ghetto, St. Mark’s Square |
| Day 7 | Venice (departure) | Last-minute shopping |
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
Morning:
As we’ve mentioned earlier, your Italian adventure begins in Rome, the Eternal City. After settling in to your hotel (click here for the list of the best affordable hotels in Rome), start your exploration with a visit to the iconic Colosseum.
Constructed between AD 70 and 80 under the emperors Vespasian and Titus, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built, capable of seating up to 80,000 spectators. This monumental structure was used for a variety of public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, mock sea battles, and dramas based on classical mythology. The Colosseum’s complex system of vaults and underground chambers, known as the hypogeum, showcases the Romans’ advanced building techniques. Join a guided Colosseum tour to explore this iconic landmark.
Afternoon:
After visiting the Colosseum, head to the nearby Roman Forum.
Established in the 7th century BC and expanded over the centuries, the Roman Forum served as the epicenter of political, judicial, and religious life in ancient Rome. This historic site hosted triumphal processions, elections, public speeches, and criminal trials. Key architectural landmarks still standing today include the Senate House (Curia), the Temple of Saturn, and the Arch of Septimius Severus. As the beating heart of both the Roman Republic and the later Roman Empire, the Forum embodies the grandeur and complexity of ancient Roman civilization, providing a tangible link to the city’s illustrious past.
Evening:
In the evening, make your way to Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. Adorned with Baroque architecture and lively street performers, it’s a perfect spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere. Use this opportunity to enjoy a delicious Italian dinner at one of the many restaurants on the spot.
Day 2: Exploring Rome and Vatican
Morning:
Start your second day in Rome with a visit to Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, which also happens to be a treasure trove of art, history and spirituality. Home to the Pope, it boasts the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, renowned for its stunning architecture, and Michelangelo’s Pietà. After witnessing that, head to the Vatican Museums, home to an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling frescoes will leave you in awe.
Afternoon:
After making your way back to Rome, go straight to Pantheon, an architectural marvel of ancient Rome, renowned for its magnificent dome and oculus. Originally built as a temple to all gods around 126 AD during Emperor Hadrian’s reign, it is remarkably well-preserved. Now a Christian church, the Pantheon also houses the tombs of notable figures, including the artist Raphael.
Continue your journey with a stop at the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome, as the legend suggests.
Evening:
End your day in the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Situated on the west bank of the Tiber River, this historic district retains a Bohemian spirit with its medieval buildings, ivy-clad facades, and bustling piazzas. Key attractions include the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest churches, and the botanical splendor of Orto Botanico. Trastevere’s lively ambiance is further enhanced by its array of cafés, trattorias, and artisan shops, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists seeking a quintessential Roman experience.
Day 3: Rome to Florence
Morning:
In the early morning of day 3, catch a high-speed train to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to start your Florentine adventure.
Late Morning:
Upon arrival, check into your hotel (click here for the best hotels in Florence, Italy) and head straight to the Florence Cathedral, or the Duomo. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture dominating Florence’s skyline, it was completed in 1436 with its striking dome engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi. The cathedral’s intricate facade, adorned with marble panels in green, pink, and white, and its grand interior are awe-inspiring. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and admire Brunelleschi’s architectural prowess.
Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon at the Uffizi Gallery, home to an extraordinary collection of Renaissance art. Masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo adorn the halls, making it a haven for art enthusiasts.
Evening:
In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Arno River and cross the historic Ponte Vecchio, famous for its jewelry shops. As the sun sets, the bridge and its surroundings create a picturesque scene perfect for photos. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling Tuscan specialties like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak).
Day 4: Florence and Tuscany Day Trip
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to the Accademia Gallery. Established in 1784 by Grand Duke Leopold of Tuscany, the gallery showcases an impressive collection of 14th to 16th-century Florentine art, incl. Michelangelo’s David – the iconic symbol of Renaissance art.
Late Morning to Afternoon:
Afterward, embark on a day trip to the Tuscan countryside. Join a guided day tour from Florence to discover the region’s highlights with a local guide. Explore the medieval city of Siena and its cathedral before heading to the hills of Chianti for a Tuscan lunch and optional wine tasting. Walk the streets of San Gimignano, and travel to Pisa — home to the UNESCO-listed Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Evening:
Return to Florence in the evening and relax after your day of exploration. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local trattoria, reminiscing about the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
Day 5: Florence to Venice
Morning:
Board a morning train to Venice, the city of canals. The journey takes about two hours, and upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a unique city-scape of winding waterways and historic buildings.
Late Morning:
Check into your hotel (click here for the best affordable hotels in Venice) and head to St. Mark’s Basilica, an architectural masterpiece standing majestically in the city’s St. Mark’s Square. Consecrated in 1094, the basilica is renowned for its opulent design, gold-ground mosaics, and the famed Pala d’Oro altarpiece. Climb its towering bell tower for a stunning view of St. Mark’s Square.
Afternoon:
Next, visit the Doge’s Palace, a Gothic palace that was the seat of the Venetian government. Explore its lavish halls and the eerie prison cells, including the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners took their last look at Venice before imprisonment.
Evening:
No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Glide through the serene canals, passing under quaint bridges and beside historic buildings. After that, dine along the Grand Canal, enjoying Venetian dishes like risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto).
Day 6: Venice
Morning:
Begin your day with a visit to the Rialto Market. Dating back to the 11th century, it is the oldest market in Venice, bustling with stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties. Experience authentic Venetian life while exploring the array of fruits, vegetables, and the daily catch from the lagoon.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, join a guided tour to explore Venice’s Cannaregio district, among whose canals and historic buildings lies the Venetian Ghetto, established in 1516 as the world’s first Jewish ghetto. This area, steeped in history, was once a thriving hub of Jewish culture and remains a poignant testament to the community’s resilience. Visitors can explore the Ghetto’s synagogues, the Jewish Museum, and kosher restaurants, gaining insight into centuries of Jewish heritage.
Evening:
Spend your last evening in Italy in Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, a favorite gathering spot for tourists and locals alike, where the gentle sounds of café orchestras blend with the cooing of pigeons. Dine at one of the many historic cafés and restaurants on the spot, such as Caffè Florian, offering an authentic Florian experience.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day in Italy, take some time for last-minute shopping and exploring. Visit any sights you might have missed or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through Venice’s charming streets before heading to the airport.
More Italy travel tips
The best time to visit Italy
Already started to plan your trip and wondering when is the best time to visit Italy? Well, the best time to visit largely depends on your interests, but spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) are generally considered ideal. During these shoulder seasons, the weather is pleasant – warm with lower humidity than in the peak summer months. These periods also see fewer tourists than the busy summer, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of iconic sites like the Colosseum, Uffizi Gallery, and Venetian canals. An added bonus: vibrant local festivals, blossoming landscapes, and a chance to immerse yourself in Italy’s rich culture and cuisine without the intense crowds and high-season prices of summer.
Italy flight and hotel booking tips
And finally, a couple of expert flight and hotel booking tips from Flight and Hotel Guru! First of all, to get the best deals, book your trip several months in advance. Before booking, utilize Flight & Hotel Guru’s powerful search engine to compare all the top available offers for flights and accommodation. Additionally, consider flying into major hubs like Rome, Milan, or Venice, as flights to these larger airports often have lower rates than smaller regional hubs.
Final thoughts
This 7-day Italy itinerary offers a perfect blend of fascinating history, stunning art, and delectable cuisine. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the Renaissance wonders of Florence and the unique charm of Venice, each day is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Buon viaggio & don’t hesitate to print out this article for reference!
