Italy is usually a country on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. And honestly, why not? With an abundance of culture, historical landmarks, Renaissance architecture, stunning beaches, delicious wines, and of course, pizza — it should also be on your travel list.
Best Italy 10 Day Itinerary
With so many vibrant cities and tourist attractions, narrowing down what to do in Italy may pose a significant challenge. That’s why we’ve created the perfect 10 day trip to Italy.
Stay in a villa and spend an amazing week in Italy. Enjoy visiting ancient cathedrals, sunbathing on picturesque beaches, hiking lush green valleys, and relishing the finest wines and cuisine. Follow this Italy trip itinerary and explore what this world-class country has in store for you.
Day 1: Rome
Your 10 day Italy tour begins in Rome, which is not only the capital city but also home to the busiest international airport in Italy, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino. Once you’ve settled into your villa and rested from your flight, take a walking tour down the lively streets of Rome.
Undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Rome boasts plenty of historical marvels and architectural masterpieces. Spend at least two hours exploring the picturesque Castel Sant’Angelo sitting on the right bank of the Tiber River.
From there, you can slowly make your way to the Vatican, passing the Obelisco di Piazza San Pietro and St. Peter’s Basilica along the way.
Day 2: Rome
The second day of your Italy itinerary crosses over to the left bank of the Tiber. Start your walk from the Trevi Fountain after taking pictures and tossing in your coin. Then take a 20-minute walk to the Colosseum.
On your journey, you’ll stumble upon incredible sights from historical museums, like the Baroque-style Galleria Colonna Museo e Pinacoteca, and ruin sites like the Trajan Forum. Before arriving at the Colosseum, you’ll see the Foro Romano, ancient ruins of a Roman marketplace — it’s a can’t miss.
Tip: First-time Rome visitors should get a Roma Pass, which grants you free access to a couple of museums, reduced ticket prices on every attraction after that, and unlimited use of public transportation.
Day 3: Naples
After spending two busy days in Rome, head to the more slow-paced Napels. Get marvelous views of Mount Vesuvius, explore the ruins of Pompeii, and enjoy classic Italian delights in the birthplace of pizza.
Although Naples is a cultural hub, boasting many art museums like Museo Cappella Sansevero — it can be rough around the edges. For a more quiet and scenic exploration, head to the dazzling beaches of the Amalfi Coast.
Day 4: Perugia
Famous for its chocolate production and exciting jazz festivals. Perugia is a cozy central Italian town boasting historical landmarks like the Rocca Paolina and the like. You’ll spot these beautiful archways dotted across town, all sitting close to hotels and eateries.
Day 5: Florence
Diving deeper into the rich heritage of Italy, your next spot is Florence, home of Renaissance art and architecture. Art enthusiasts will love exploring the plethora of art museums, galleries, and world-famous sculptures like the David of Michelangelo.
But that’s not all; before setting off to your next destination, take a high-speed train from Florence to the gravity-defying Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Day 6: Cinque Terre
Take a much-needed break from the bustling city centers and enjoy a fresh breeze of oceanic air in the breathtaking towns of Cinque Terre.
Speckled with colorful centuries-old seaside villages, this dazzling region boasts tons of vineyards, scenic hiking trails, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Stay in a cliffside villa and get uninterrupted views of the stunning Ligurian coastline.
Day 7: Venice
The next stop on your 10 days in Italy trip is the lustrous city of Venice. Built on more than 100 islands, this archipelagic city has glistening canals as its roads. Take a lovely gondola ride around the city center, exploring heritage sites and cathedrals like the Saint Mark’s Basilica.
Enjoy floating under arched bridgeways like the 16th-century stone footbridge, Rialto Bridge. Indulge your taste buds at St Mark’s Square before wrapping up your day with amazing views of the gothic-style Doge’s Palace museum.
Day 8: Lake Garda
Italy is bountiful with water channels, from winding canals to crystal clear lakes like this one. Your next stop is the magnificent Lake Garda, tucked between mountain peaks and lush green valleys.
This beautiful lake has white-sand beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and various watersports. So book a lakeside villa and enjoy the splendor of waking up to idyllic northern Italy views, go paragliding, and visit nearby tourist attractions like the Jungle Adventure Park.
Day 9: Milan
Now that you’re nearly at the end of your 10 day Italy itinerary, it’s time to do some shopping! The city of Milan is the fashion center of Italy, home to global brands like Versace, Prada, Armani, and Dolce & Gabbana.
But there’s more to Milan than leather goods and clothing. The city boasts the majestic Duomo di Milano Cathedral. Visit the Sforzesco Castle before sitting down for some delicious Italian cuisine. End your day with an enchanting performance at the Columns of St. Lawrence Arts Theater.
Day 10: Lake Como
Many may disagree, but the best way to end your conquest of Italy in 10 days is with tranquility. Lake Como boasts profound glacial origins, making it the deepest lake in Italy. It’s suitable for swimming and other water activities like fishing.
Marvel at the dazzling lakeside residences like Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta. Alternatively, take a boat trip to the secluded Isola Comacina island, boasting lush Mediterranean vegetation and architectural remains like the Santa Maria con Portico church.
10 Days in Italy Itinerary Wrapped Up
Italy is an all-in-one stop for an epic European vacation. Boasting so many historic attractions, breathtaking views, and delightful cuisine — you may think exploring Italy in 10 days is impossible.
But, hopefully, this list of places to see in Italy in 10 days proves otherwise. Relish every stop and attraction in your Italy itinerary because 10 days in this sensational country can be quite fleeting. Nonetheless, the best Italy trips are those filled with fun, adventure, and lots of pizza.
