trip to florence and venice

The Ultimate 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary by Train

A trip from Rome to Venice through the Tuscan hills of Italy is fantastic for families, couples, solo travelers, and literally anyone ( and their mama ) visiting Italy for the first time.

What’s more, this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary hits a lot of the major historic and art-rich places we learned about in school, doesn’t break the bank, and is great all year round.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

a 7 day Rome Florence Venice itinerary by train

Table of Contents

Itinerary Overview

I’m Mariana, and I’ve spent months traveling through Italy, hiking in the Dolomites, visiting the sites, and drinking Aperol on as many Italian beaches as possible.

I’ve also done this Rome to Venice route a few times, and from my experience, here’s the best route and time in each place:

3 Days in Rome – Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman History
2 Days in Florence – Cathedral, Best Art Museum in Italy, Michelin Experience, a day tour to San Gimignano & Leaning Tower of Pisa
2 Days in Venice – Gondola Ride, Basilica and Palazzo, Glass Blowing

Highly-rated accommodation in Rome: Domus Æterna – Re di Roma or D.R.Rome Spanish Luxury Suites .

Highly-rated accommodation in Florence: Atelier delle Grazie , San Giuliano Inn , or B&B Stupido Hotel .

Highly-rated accommodation in Venice: Venice Suite Dorsoduro or Palazzetto Barnaba .

My favorite time to visit Italy is in the spring and autumn when the vineyards are showing off.

Surprisingly, this whole trip is best done via train, and that’s how I recommend it. Renting a car would actually be more of a hassle on the tiny and busy streets of all these cities, and the train system is so cheap, nice, and well-connected, it would be a shame not to use it.

Book your train tickets in advance on Omio (formerly GoEuro).

So let’s jump into what to do and see, a few local tips for each city, and my travel recommendations.

A 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

You can actually do this route starting in Rome or Venice (Venice-Florence-Rome), as both have great airports and train stations connecting each other. I’ve always started in Rome, so this is the way I recommend it.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

I’m pretty sure Rome is the most visited city in Europe, and so there’s a reason why I recommend at least 3 days (minimum) in the city center.

Rome is a fantastic blend of historical sites, art, beautiful people, and culinary experiences that make it a great start to the trip.

I’m going to share the top things to see today, but remember to take time to simply enjoy the “dolce vita” – the sweet life – that Rome preaches:

1. Pantheon: This ancient temple, now a church, is renowned for its perfect proportions and its oculus, an opening in the dome that shines light inside the interior beautifully. You will have to cover your shoulders for this one! You can also book a guided Pantheon tour.

2. Trevi Fountain: One of the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece. Tradition says that throwing a coin into the fountain ensures you fall in love with an Italian by the end of the trip. You can explore it with this free Rome walking tour.

3. Piazza Navona: Known for its baroque architecture, street artists, and cafes, Piazza Navona is a charming place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Rome. This is a great lunch and dinner spot!

4. Spanish Steps: A great spot for people-watching, the Spanish Steps are a famous meeting place and lead to the Trinità dei Monti church (a must-see).

No trip to Rome is complete without stuffing your face full of Italian food. Try dishes like Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and authentic gelato. Don’t worry, you can walk it off after!

Day 2: Explore the Vatican

Today is all about the Catholic Church. It will take a full day to explore the Vatican City and Trastevere neighborhood across the river, and I highly recommend booking your Vatican tours ahead of time.

Here’s what’s on the daily agenda:

1. Vatican City: Home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City is a must. Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica are ‘wow’! Book your tour here or purchase a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Explore Trastevere: This picturesque neighborhood is known for its narrow cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and traditional Roman trattorias. It’s a great area to have lunch and dinner.

3. Walk Along the Tiber River: Especially in the evening, a stroll along the Tiber is a peaceful break from the crazy city streets.

Day 3: Explore Rome

On your last day in Rome, you’re going to do as much as you can during the day, and then catch a late afternoon train (2 hrs) to Florence:

1. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum: Explore the iconic Colosseum, a symbol of Rome’s ancient power and engineering. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ruins are also great! You can book a tour to visit both sites with a guide or get a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Galleria Borghese: Set in the beautiful Villa Borghese Park, this museum houses a substantial collection of art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Be sure to purchase your ticket in advance .

In the afternoon, take the 2-hour train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station and get ready for the next leg of this Italian trip.

Day 4: Explore Florence

No rest for the wicked! I’ve done all of these things in one day, with the help of 7 espressos along the way:

1. Uffizi Gallery Tour: Home to the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. You MUST get a ticket and timeslot ahead of time.

2. Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: Florence’s most iconic landmark. While you can go in, the lines are insane, so just passing by it and having a coffee is fine.

3. Ponte Vecchio: The oldest bridge in Florence, known for its jewelry shops and picturesque views over the Arno River.

4. Accademia Gallery: Famous for Michelangelo’s David, this gallery also houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures. You can buy your ticket in advance.

5. Beautiful piazzas: Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria. You can explore them with the free Florence walking tour.

6. Boboli Gardens: Behind the Pitti Palace, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer a peaceful escape with stunning views of the city. If you have to skip out on anything, maybe scrap these.

I was shocked by how many Michelin restaurants there are in Florence and was glad to take advantage of the foodie nature of this city. Make a reservation ahead of time – a usual nice dinner with wine goes to €100-150.

DAY 5: DAY TRIP TO PISA & SAN GIMIGNIANO

Really close to Florence is the cutest little Tuscan town, San Gimignano, followed by the city of Pisa further west.

The best way to visit both of these is by booking a tour – this way, you get the history buff tour guide and the transportation. I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, but it’s a full day.

Book your Pisa & San Gimignano tour !

Day 6: Explore Venice

I left Florence on the early morning train and headed to Venice. It took about 2 hours – make sure you grab a coffee and breakfast to go for the train ride.

Venice blew my mind! I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was much more romantic and charming than I realized. Here are the top things to do in Venice, which you can split over the two days:

1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): The heart of Venice, home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace. The square is a hub of activity and a perfect starting point for your visit.

2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale): Explore this symbol of Venice’s wealth and power, with its magnificent rooms, artwork, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. You can also book a tour of the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica.

3. Rialto Bridge and Market: Visit the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal, a lively area filled with shops, and the nearby Rialto Market, known for its fresh produce and seafood.

4. Grand Canal Tour: Take a gondola or Vaporetto (water bus) ride along the Grand Canal to witness the magic of Venetian architecture and life along the waterways. A gondola ride is about an hour and should cost about €80.

If possible, attend a performance or take a tour of the famous and beautifully restored opera house, and wander the less-traveled paths and canals to discover hidden squares and charming cafés away from the crowds.

Day 7: Explore Venice

On the last day of this Rome to Venice trip, it’s all about going beyond the touristy sites.

For lunch, make sure you sample local goodies like Cicchetti (Venetian tapas), any of the fresh seafood on the menu, and traditional dishes like risotto nero (squid ink risotto) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Murano and Burano Islands nearby. Murano is famous for its glass-making, while Burano is known for its lace-making and brightly colored houses. Vaporettos (water taxis) are your friend for these trips. You can also book an excursion.

From here, you can either take the train back to Rome the next morning or fly on to your next destination – or home!

Getting From Rome to Venice

Traveling from Rome to Venice can be done in several ways, each with its own pros and cons. I recommend doing this Italy itinerary by train, but I wanted to show you what’s possible.

✅The best way to do this trip is by train. Italy’s high-speed trains, like Frecciarossa, connect Rome to Venice in about 3.5 to 4 hours, with so many stops along the way to break up the trip – like Florence and Bologna.

Trains are punctual, fast, and allow you to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The downside is the lack of flexibility; you’re limited to the train schedule and routes, and there’s less opportunity for spontaneous exploration.

✅Driving is the most flexible way to get from Rome to Venice. You have the freedom to stop in cute little towns and scenic spots along the way – and there are plenty.

However, driving in Italy can be challenging due to traffic, especially in cities, and parking can be expensive and tough to find.

What’s more, navigating the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in places like Rome, Florence, and Venice requires planning to avoid fines.

✅Flying is the quickest way to travel between Rome and Venice , with the flight time being just over an hour. However, when you factor in the time for airport transfers, security checks, and waiting at the airport, it may not save much time compared to the train.

Also, you miss out on the scenic journey and the chance to visit places between the two cities.

Each mode of transportation gives you a unique experience, so your choice depends on your priorities, whether it’s flexibility, speed, comfort, or the opportunity to explore.

Travel Tips for This 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Trip

If it’s your first time in Italy, you might find a few of these surprising. Nevertheless, here are some practical tips to help make your journey smooth:

✔️Plan and Book In Advance: Decide on the places you want to visit along the way. Besides major cities like Florence, consider adding smaller towns and countryside stops, like San Giminiano and Siena.

And for the love of baby Jesus, book your hotels and AirBnBs ahead of time, especially in peak tourist season (which is always).

✔️Don’t Rent a Car: It will actually be more of a hassle on this particular route because the trains are super well-connected, cheap, and nice. What’s more, Venice is a car-free zone.

For little day trips to vineyards and cute little villages, there are amazing small-group tours you can book that give you a bomb-ass guide and handle the transport and entry tickets for you.

PRO TIP: Many Italian cities, including Rome and Venice, have ZTL areas where non-residential vehicles are restricted – there will be signs. If you do rent a car for whatever reason, plan to park outside these areas to avoid hefty fines. In Venice, park at the Tronchetto or in Mestre and use public transport to get into the city.

✔️Pack Right: Bring a little backpack with you at all times, and fill it with your charger (don’t forget the European adapter), a water bottle (especially in the summer), and snacks (which you can buy along the way).

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. So is one cute night outfit, because you’re going to some of the most romantic places in Italy.

✔️Be Flexible: While it’s good to have a plan, be open to spontaneous detours or stops. Some of the best experiences come from unplanned adventures. Like why not skip the Vatican and take a day trip to Pompei or Naples?

✔️Learn Basic Italian: Phrases for greetings, directions, the bathroom, and ordering food will be particularly helpful. And maybe a few curse words, just for fun.

✔️Show some Respect: Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and head in all churches, and be nice when chatting it up with locals. And tip your waiter !

✔️Don’t Be A Tourist: Don’t put your wallet in the back pocket of your jeans, and don’t leave your phone on the table as you eat (like I do in the States), because that makes you an easy target for petty thieves.

That said, Italy is pretty safe, so just apply the same watchful eye as you might in New York City.

FAQ: Rome-Florence-Venice by Train

Is it worth taking a day trip from rome to venice.

Not really. The fastest train from Rome to Venice is just under 4 hours. Driving will take almost 6 hours. And while a flight takes 1 hour, getting to and from the airport, will add a few more hours.

What Are the Best Places to Stop Between Rome and Venice?

I think the top 5 best places to stop on this route are:

1. Florence : Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is the epicenter of art, architecture, and history in Italy. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Michelangelo and Botticelli, and don’t miss the iconic Duomo.

2. Siena : This medieval town in Tuscany is famous for its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral. The Tuscan countryside around Siena, known for its vineyards, is the backdrop to my phone.

3. Bologna : Often overlooked, Bologna is a hidden gem. I love it for its rich food culture (think authentic Bolognese sauce).

4. Verona : Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet , Verona is a city for lovers. Visit Juliet’s House and explore the ancient Roman arena here.

5. Padua : Before reaching Venice, stop in Padua, known for its historic architecture and art. The Scrovegni Chapel, with frescoes by Giotto, is a highlight. Padua also has a lively market and beautiful botanical gardens, the oldest in the world.

Each of these stops gives you a unique slice of Italian culture and history, making your Rome-Florence-Venice travel itinerary just a bit more authentic.

PRO TIP : Remember to check the opening times of everything and book tickets in advance (trust me!) to make the most of your stops.

Is a Road Trip Through Italy a Good Idea?

Although this itinerary is better done by train, a road trip through Italy is a fantastic idea, especially if you love Italian food and art history, and value the old-school charm of “ dolce vita ” life. More specifically, here’s a few reasons to hit up Italy for a road trip:

Pretty Landscapes : From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged coastlines of Amalfi , a road trip through any part of Italy will showcase some pretty epic scenery.

Rich Culture : Every region has its unique heritage, from ancient Roman ruins in Rome to Renaissance art in Florence. Road-tripping lets you explore cultural gems like the Tower of Pisa, a Tuscan winery, the Vatican, and the canals of Venice at your own pace.

Yummy Food: Italy is a paradise for foodies, from the ragú in Naples to seafood in Sicily. You’ll be shocked to know that Italy is more than just pizza and pasta.

Charming Villages: Beyond the major cities, Italy is dotted with cute little towns and villages, often less visited by tourists. Road tripping (even by train) gives you the freedom to discover these hidden gems and experience the authentic Italian way of life.

Final Thoughts

I’ve spent months traveling through Italy – I’ve tried this Rome to Venice itinerary a few times, and I think the best way to get from one spot to another is by train.

I recommend visiting Italy in the spring or fall months when the tourist crowds are more manageable and it’s not so blistering hot in Italy.

Bio: Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow wanderers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn’t writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step toward a much-needed sabbatical.

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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The Ultimate Italian 8-Day Adventure: Rome, Florence and Venice

8 day tour of rome, florence and venice.

Visit archeological & historical marvels like the Colosseum, Forum, and Trevi Fountain in Rome.
Enjoy private guided tours in the historic Rome, Renaissance Florence, and along Venice’s canals.
Gaze into the Renaissance with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatella, and Da Vinci in Florence.
Explore St. Mark’s Square & climb its Bell Tower, then enjoy a Gondola ride through Venetian waters.
Immerse yourself in tranquil retreats to the islands of Murano and Burano on a day trip from Venice.

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Arrive Rome

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Private Transfer from Rome Fiumicino to Hotel

For your arrival in Rome, we will provide information on the customs and passport procedures. We will schedule a pick up for your flight's arrival time. You will be met at arrivals inside the terminal by a driver holding a sign with your name on it. The transfer is for your party only - you will not be sharing a vehicle. The cost of the ride will be included in your itinerary package and you will be taken directly to your hotel. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

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Private Transfer to your Hotel

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Forum (Ancient Rome)

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Grand Guided Walking Tour of the Historic Center

Get to know the historic core of Rome on this three hour private guided walking tour that takes in such famous sights as People's Square (Piazza Popolo), the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain where Anita Ekberg jumped into the water in Frederico Fellini's La Dolce Vita, the column of Marcus Aurelius, the Pantheon, and the most beautiful square in all of Italy - Piazza Navona.

Rome to Florence

Morning/Mid-Day

Explore the Vatican City's Many Wonders

Rome is unique in the world in that it contains an independent country within its city limits - the Vatican City, from where the Pope administers the Catholic Church. The symbolic center of Catholicism is St Peter's Basilica, the second-largest Catholic church in the world and among the most beautiful. The Vatican Museum contains one of the greatest collections of art in existence, including Michelangelo's jaw-dropping Sistine Chapel. The popes had a bigger influence on Rome than just the collection of art. The Pope's title is actually Bishop of Rome, and popes administed the city for centuries, shaping its architecture & public spaces. Rome was re-built to be an example of urban beauty, and the Vatican was meant to be the showcase within the showcase. Their success is evident from the throngs of visitors who flock here even today.

Visit Italy's Greatest Display of Art at the Uffizi Gallery

As the capital of the Renaissance, it's only fitting that Florence should also host Italy's greatest art gallery at the Uffizi. It's understandably busy throughout the year, but it's nevertheless worth the crowds to see to see some of the most sumptuous masterpieces of Renaissance art, including Botticelli's Primavera and Venus, and works by Michelangelo and Da Vinci. If you're planning to visit other galleries and museums in Florence, then it's definitely worth investing in a Firenze Card, which gives you free entry and priority access to 72 venues in the city. At a minimum, you should book ahead for the Uffizi to avoid very long queues.

Florence to Venice

Best of Florence: Half-Day Walking Tour

Enjoy a 3-hour private walking tour of Florence, the perfect introduction to the masterpieces of this city. Stroll around the historic center and take in sights such as the Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Signora and end your tour at the famous Galleria dell'Accademia where you can enter to see Michelangelo's marble masterpiece, the statue of David.

'First Walk' Guided Tour in Venice

If you are a first-time visitor to Venice, the best approach is an introductory tour. This 3-hour private guided walking excursion begins with a selection of the “must sees,” including St. Mark's Square, the former political center of the Venetian Republic, with its many famous buildings: the Doges' Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Marciana Library, the Bell Tower, and the Clock Tower. You'll end your tour in the Rialto neighborhood next to the famous Rialto Bridge.

Rialto Bridge & San Polo District

The graceful arch of the Rialto Bridge is perhaps the single most iconic sight in Venice since nearly everyone passes beneath it on their journey along the Grand Canal. It connects Venice's two most visited districts, San Marco and San Polo. While San Marco is famous for St. Mark's Square, San Polo more than holds its own as a must-see destination, as it contains some of the city's oldest neighborhoods and most picturesque canals and bridges. It is also home to some of the best restaurants in Venice, and admittedly some of its worst tourist traps as well. Among many highlights is the bustling Rialto Market, which was once one of medieval Europe's busiest financial and trade markets, and still does a brisk trade in fresh seafood and produce.

Depart Venice

Transfer to Airport by Taxi or Water Bus

Most visitors will depart from the Venice Marco Polo Airport, which is located just across the water on the mainland. Because of the impossibility of driving inside Venice, you will need to take a water bus to Piazzale Roma on the edge of the city and then a land taxi to the airport (40 EUR), or take a water bus directly to the airport (15 EUR). It is also possible to take a private water taxi directly from your hotel to the airport, but it's very expensive. If you are departing from Venice Treviso Airport, you have much further to go. You can either take an expensive taxi ride (about 100 EUR) or take a shuttle bus for 12 EUR. The ATVO line departs from Piazzale Roma and takes 70 minutes, while the Barzi line picks up at the less convenient Tronchetto (the docks) but only takes 40 minutes.

A Week in Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome

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the exterior of the florence cathedral from street level

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Feel the pulse of Italy's vibrant culture.

With its millennia-spanning history, comforting regional cuisine, and countless artistic treasures, it’s no wonder Italy consistently ranks at the top of travelers' wish lists. Whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for a taste of new-to-you cities and regions, this weeklong tour will take you straight to the pulsing heart of the country’s vibrant culture. Venice romances visitors with its sprawling, Baroque palaces and maze of winding canals. Florence, the Tuscan capital, wins hearts with its Renaissance architecture and art. And Rome dazzles with its ever-present history, from the hulking Colosseum to the Forum’s still-stately remains. Want to soak up even more of Italy’s epic history and endless charm? Extend your tour and continue south to the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii and the coastal city of Sorrento, where la dolce vita is embraced to the nth degree.

Special departures of this itinerary

New Year's Eve

Your tour package includes

7 nights in handpicked hotels
7 breakfasts
3 dinners with beer or wine
3 sightseeing tours
Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice
The Duomo of Florence
The Ponte Vecchio in Florence
The Piazza della Repubblica in Florence
The Grand Canal of Venice

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Venice today.

Welcome to Italy! Tonight, join your fellow travelers at a local restaurant for a welcome dinner featuring local specialties and beer or wine.

Today, meet up with your local guide and explore the heart of Venice on foot and by vaporetto, or water taxi. Admire historic churches, hundreds of winding canals, and storied piazzas on a tour of the city, which was founded in the fifth century and is known as the Queen of the Adriatic. The entire city—including its 118 islands and the lagoon in which it sits—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its staggering concentration of architectural and artistic masterpieces, its unique and efficient network of canals, and the inextricable relationship between its people and surrounding ecosystem.

Step onto iconic St. Mark’s Square and enter St. Mark’s Basilica—an opulent, domed church built in the 11th century to house the body of St. Mark the Apostle.
View the stately Doge’s Palace, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic style that was built in 1340 and served as both the residence of the Doge (the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice) and the seat of the Venetian government.
Marvel at the Bridge of Sighs (or Ponte dei Sospiri in Italian), now a famous Venetian landmark that was built in 1600 to connect the Doge’s Palace to a prison situated just across the canal.
See a Murano glassblowing demonstration and learn about Venice’s most celebrated art form, whose roots in the city date back to the 10th century.

Then, enjoy a free afternoon in Venice or add an excursion.

Please note: Travelers should feel comfortable getting into and out of the water taxi. On some departures travelers may enter St. Mark's Basilica after the sightseeing tour based on ticket time availability.

Gondola Ride: Venice Canal Cruise

From $89 per person

Private Gondola Ride: Canal Cruise for Two

From $165 per person

Today, travel through the scenic Apennine Mountains to Florence—Tuscany’s capital and the world’s greatest treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture. Get to know the city with a local guide.

Head to Florence’s UNESCO-listed historic center and view its exquisite, 15th-century cathedral—the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, or Duomo, which is the world’s third-largest church.
Learn about the cathedral’s distinctive, marble-clad facade and its instantly recognizable dome, the latter of which was built by Filippo Brunelleschi and has become a symbol of the Renaissance and Florence itself.
Pass Giotto’s Campanile, or bell tower, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that rises nearly 280 feet above the city and features the same red, white, and green marble found on the Duomo’s facade.
Walk past the Piazza della Repubblica, one of Florence’s main squares, to the medieval Ponte Vecchio, an iconic bridge that spans the Arno River and has been lined with shops since the 13th century.
Stroll along the Arno River and through the Uffizi Gallery’s courtyard to the Piazza della Signoria—a beautiful square that’s situated just outside Palazzo Vecchio and is home to several notable statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the fountain of Neptune.

This evening, join your fellow travelers at a local restaurant for an included dinner featuring Tuscan specialties and beer or wine.

Enjoy a free day in Florence or add an excursion.

San Gimignano: Medieval Sights & Tuscan Flavors

From $115 per person

Depart Florence for Italy’s capital, Rome, whose entire historic center—including its Forum, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the religious and public buildings of papal Rome—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Romans on a guided tour of the Eternal City.

Soak up more than 2,000 years of history in Imperial Rome, viewing the fourth-century Arch of Constantine—the largest surviving Roman triumphal arch—and the Arch of Titus.
Enter the Colosseum, the iconic amphitheater that was built between 70–72 A.D. to host events such as gladiatorial games.
Stop at the ruins of the Forum, which served as a setting for parades, elections, and trials.
Pass by Palatine Hill to the ancient chariot-racing stadium known as Circus Maximus, as well as the Terme di Caracalla—a beautiful and luxurious public bath that functioned from the third century until the sixth century.

Please note: While sightseeing in Rome, travelers should feel comfortable walking on uneven and rocky pathways and steps. Shade and seating are limited, especially at venues such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

Enjoy a free day in Rome or add excursions.

Please note: The Iconic Sights: Vatican City excursion may be offered on day 8, depending on the day of the week. Please call for more information.

Iconic Sights: Vatican City

From $125 per person

Pasta-Making Class & Dinner

From $119 per person

Enjoy another free day to explore Rome, or add an excursion. Then, join your group at tonight’s farewell dinner. You'll enjoy a multi-course traditional Italian meal, complete with beer or wine, as well as live musical entertainment.

Please note: The Ancient Rome: St. Paul's Basilica & the Catacombs excursion may be offered on day 7, depending on the day of the week.

Ancient Rome: St. Paul’s Basilica & the Catacombs

Transfer to Rome’s airport for your flight home, or extend your stay to visit the Sorrento peninsula.

En route to the Sorrento Peninsula, stop at Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a guided walking tour of the ancient city’s ruins.

Find out what Pompeii—once a flourishing resort city for ancient Rome’s elite—was like before Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D., burying the town in a blanket of volcanic ash and killing 2,000 people.
Explore the excavated ruins of theaters, villas, temples, and baths—and view the mummified remains of Pompeiian people—for a true understanding of what life was like in the once-thriving town, as well as the scale of the devastating eruption.

Please note: Terrain at Pompeii is uneven and rocky in places and can be difficult for travelers with limited mobility to navigate. Both shade and seating are limited throughout the site.

Then, continue on to the Sorrento Peninsula, a scenic sliver of land whose southern shore is home to iconic resort towns, such as Positano and Ravello, and the glamorous Amalfi Coast.

Enjoy free time to explore the Sorrento Peninsula, or add an excursion.

This evening, sip a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

Capri: A Day on the Iconic Island

Transfer to the Naples airport for your flight home.

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Overall rating 4.7 out of 5

3 out of 5 stars

Tour guide: Tini was an excellent guide! She took care of all of us and made us feel welcome. She was amazing! Hotels: Venice hotel was great; well located, up to date, clean, mini bar. No pool. Florence hotel was dirty and woefully out of date, no mini bar, no pool, but well located. Rome hot...

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5 out of 5 stars

Tini was absolutely amazing- if we were to go on another EF Tour we would request Tini. She amazed us with her knowledge of the regions and thought we were apart of Italy because of her!

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Hotels, flights & FAQ

This Art Nouveau hotel is located in Lido di Venezia. Guests enjoy a private beach area, restaurant and bar, and library. Nearby, you’ll find Lido Bea...

This classic hotel is located in the San Lorenzo neighborhood of Florence. Guests enjoy the on-site coffee house, spacious rooms, and convenient locat...

This modern hotel is located in Rome’s Piazza Bologna. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a bar and lounge, and a fitness center. Nearby, you’ll find the 19th-c...

This cozy hotel is located in Sorrento’s city center. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Piazza Tasso, Marameo Bea...

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Find out more about flights
In order to enter Italy, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code VFS.
Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Venice and depart from Rome (or Naples on the tour extension).
Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
When you arrive in Venice, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.
Please note that your arrival transfer may be via water taxi.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
Most transportation by motor coach
Occasional transportation by boat
About 2-3 hours of bus time daily

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
Stone pathways and cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
The city of Venice is fully pedestrian with 3-5 steps leading up and down the many bridges throughout the city.
The terrain around the Roman Forum and the Colosseum includes inclines and uneven stairs.
Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour.

Climate Considerations

In the summer months (June-September), travelers can expect heatwaves with temperatures consistently above 90F.

Venice experiences the Acqua Alta, or high water, during the fall and winter months. During this time, travelers can expect the lower parts of the city to flood for a few hours during the day.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
This tour includes various modes of transportation including water taxi and private motor coach. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
Water taxi rides in Venice are included in the price of your tour.
All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
In Venice, water taxis are the main form of transportation and typically require travelers to step down into a rocking boat.
Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and boats.
Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels, airports, and boarding water taxis.
We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
Accommodations are typically three and four star hotels.
All accommodations include a private bathroom.
Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
This tour includes 3 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
Venice and Northern Italy are known for flavorful meats and pastries.
Tuscany is world-famous for its wine, oil, sauces, and pasta. Menus favor subtle, lighter pastas and desserts made with nuts, fruit, and honey. Try a dish featuring the region’s Chianina beef, perhaps the most prized breed of cattle in all of Italy. For wine, popular Tuscan reds include Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which are primarily made from the Sangiovese grape. Well-known white wines are also made around the San Gimignano region.
Roman food is typically freshly prepared and varies depending on the season. Must-try bites include cacio e pepe (a simple dish of pasta, cheese, and pepper) and supplí (a fried rice ball similar to Sicily’s arancini).
For more authentic meals, try local trattorias, small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello.
At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
Tips can only be paid in cash.
The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
You will use the euro on this tour.
Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
Italy is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.
When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
If you are interested in visiting any of Florence's many museums during your free time, we recommend that you make reservations in advance. See uffizi.org for the Uffizi Gallery or accademia.org for the Accademia Gallery. Please note that the museums are closed on Mondays.

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4.8 out of 5 stars

4.5 out of 5 stars

Musings of a Rover

10 Days In Venice, Florence, & Milan: An Italy Itinerary

Italy. This was just my first visit…but I know it won’t be my last.

Italy Itinerary: Florence, Venice, & Milan

Italy has been beckoning to me for a long time. It’s been there, just waiting for me to come. And though our trip to this land was very much overdue, it was of course wonderful. The food, sunsets, towers, churches, and more. Italy was just…seductive. By the time we left I was already planning another trip. I believe we had the perfect introduction this country. And so that is what I want you to experience. To see and eat and do and just fall in love with Italy. And to do that you need a guide. So this is our Italy itinerary.

We started in Venice . That magical, canal-laden city. I’d heard about the city but there’s something about seeing it that called to me. Something so different. So Venice. Then it was onto Florence where we spent the bulk of our trip. Food, duomos, and just so much art . We ended in Milan with just one short day before it was back to the airport.

Our trip lasted about 10 days. We actually did it in 9, but I’ve added an extra day in Venice since this is where I would have spent it. And I hope our Italy Itinerary helps you plan your own trip. Use it as a step-by-step guide or as your starting point. Hopefully it’ll help you discover what Italy has to offer.

Hint…everything!

Days 1-3: Venice

Day 1: head to venice.

We flew in and out of Milan and found that to be easy for us. But this would work just as well if you flew in/out of Venice or Florence. If you do that then I would almost consider scrapping Milan from the list altogether.

Once we landed we took the express to the main Milan train station and then bought our tickets to Venice. Taking the trains was easy and we arrived in Venice by the mid-afternoon.

And there was one thing I wanted to do in Venice that day, catch the sunset from the top of the campanile. Do not miss this.

Since we traveled to Italy in November, sunset was before 5pm. So after we checked into our guesthouse, we headed straight for the bell tower.

We lucked out in that there was no line for the campanile. Probably due to the fact that it was still early in the day and the tourists coming in for the weekend hadn’t arrived yet. So make sure you do this on a weekday. It’s 8 euros a person to go to the top.

Seeing the sunset was one of the best things we did. And though it was a bit crowded at the top, I was able to get a spot by the railing many times. The views were incredible .

After catching the sunset, we wandered Venice for several hours. Crossing over the Accademia bridge and then back again over the Rialto. I would definitely recommend just wandering Venice in the evenings. It’s so much quieter. And gives you a sense of what Venice is like without hordes of tourists everywhere.

And definitely stop in any wine bars that call out to you like we did! These cicchetti bars were heaven. Not sure what I mean? Check out this article for more information on cicchetti .

Finally after making it back to our hotel, we headed out to dinner.

Tip! If you have a particular restaurant in mind, make a reservation in advance! We didn’t and it took us 3-4 stops before finally being able to find a restaurant that still had seats.

Day 3: Extra Day

Confession. Ryan and I were only in Italy for 9 days. But I would have loved an extra day in Venice. Below are the things on my list that I wanted to do but didn’t have the time:

Correr Museum
Ca’Rezzonico
Go inside the Santa Maria della Salute
Ride over to see the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore
Take a vaporetto out to one of the smaller islands

So if you can squeeze in an extra day, consider doing it in Venice especially if you come in the off-season. I’ve heard mixed opinions of Venice during the summer.

How To Get Around Venice

How to get to venice.

When we landed in Milan we followed the signs to “Trains.” There we bought just a single ticket on the Malpensa Express to Milan Central. To buy this ticket we went to the actual ticket window (with a live person). There were machines but the lines were so long we decided to forego them.

I now think I could have bought our whole route (from airport to Venice) at the ticket window. But I don’t think it would have been much faster.

Once we got to Milan Central we bought our tickets to Venice. There are Trenitalia ticket machines all over the station and they are really easy to figure out. You may need to exit the platform area to find the machine.

IMPORTANT! If you have an American credit card with a chip, the machine will ask you for a pin. Most American credit cards with a chip don’t have a pin. If you have an old stripe card (without a chip) I’ve read that it works with the machine. But our “chip & sign” cards don’t.

We ended up having to go to the ticket window and buy the tickets from an actual person. In the future we got around this by just using cash with the machine. Please keep this mind if you are an American!

We rode the train to the Santa Lucia station in Venice (called “Venezia” on the machine).

You also don’t need to worry about validating your ticket if you have a seat assignment. And you’ll see the seat assignment right on the ticket. All of our main journeys had seat assignments.

On a final note – what about buying your tickets in advance? Since Ryan and I were traveling in the off-season we did not buy our tickets in advance. We literally rolled up to the station and got on the next train.

However we seemed to be the only people doing so. Our hotel staff would ask us when our train was leaving and other tourists mentioned they bought theirs in advance.

From our experience, if you are traveling in the off season, I think you could wait till you are in Italy to buy your train tickets. But if you are traveling in the high season, I would buy your initial tickets in advance and then buy the rest when you get to Italy. (The ticket machines let you buy your tickets for any day.)

I had read everywhere that Venice is very small and walkable. Okay it is small and walkable. But after reading this time and time again, I expected it to be tiny. Someone said you could walk across it in 30 minutes.

Holy shit they must be the fastest walker alive.

Now I did have a tendency to stroll. I looked around. I took my time. Snapped photos. And even when we were headed for a particular place, it still took time to navigate all of the tiny streets and alleys. It took us well over an hour to wander from St. Mark’s Square over the Accademia bridge and then slowly make our way around that neighborhood before making our way to the Rialto and back to our hotel.

So if you are going from one part of Venice to another, plan more than just a few minutes.

Also it should be said that there are no cars in Venice. It’s all pedestrian. The only other form of transportation here is a boat. Which leads me to…

The Vaporettos!

Think of these as buses on the water. If you aren’t going to any of the other islands there are only two you need to worry about. Line #1 and Line #2 are the ones that go up and down the grand canal. Line 1 is slow and stops at every stop. Line 2 is fast and stops at the big ones (like Rialto & St. Mark’s).

When we arrived, we hopped on line #2 to the Rialto stop for our hotel. On our way back, we walked down to the Zaccaria stop (behind St. Mark’s) and rode the #1 line back to the train station.

I jostled my way to the railing after two stops and for 45 minutes I had an obstructed view of one side of the grand canal.

You can buy a ticket (7.5 Euros each) or a pass. For us it made sense to buy them individually since we only had the 4 rides in 48 hours. But check out the passes when you’re at the ticket booth to see if it would make sense for you!

things to do in venice - vaporetto; how much does a trip to italy cost

Where To Eat In Venice

Make sure to reserve for dinner! We didn’t and we lucked out both nights.

Trattoria Antico Calice was the one restaurant we could find that had tables open. Especially since we went out at 9pm which is the peak dinner time in Italy. The food was good and we got to try some of Venice’s famous seafood.

Birraria La Corte is known for their craft beers. Which is a rarity in wine-loving Italy. But since it was Ryan’s birthday, I wanted to get him one (or three) craft beers. The pizzas were also delicious. (Definitely individual sized.) Plus then tiramisu and limoncello.

Also a fun fact about Birraria La Corte is that it was basically empty when we got there (at about 7pm), but within 45 minutes it was filled to capacity with people waiting out front to get a table. We were worried at first that it wouldn’t be good (since there was no one around), but that thought was quickly put to rest!

2 days in venice: things to do in venice italy

Where To Stay

Since we only had two days, I wanted to stay somewhere fairly close to the central area but on a side street. I also wanted it to be nice and close to $100/night. We ended up picking Locanda Allegri and it checked all the boxes. This is not a fancy place, but I liked it a lot. Clean, large rooms in a great location.

Days 4-8: Florence

Day 4: catch a train to florence.

On our last morning in Venice we went for a long walk over to a bakery I had heard about: Tonolo Pastry . After grabbing something delicious and a cappuccino, we headed back. Even though Tonolo was on the other side of the grand canal, I liked our morning jaunt since it allowed us to walk a bit more in Venice and see the Frari church in the daylight.

Then it was time to head back to the train station. As mentioned in the above section, we took the slow #1 line on the vaporetto so we could spend just a little bit more time with Venice.

We got to Florence around dusk and checked into our hotel. That night we relaxed and took in two major sights, the duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio, before heading to dinner.

Day 5: Buy Your Ticket & See the Sunset

We had two big sightseeing days in Florence, and this was the first. I wouldn’t recommend any less time in Florence. But if you only have two days, you can see quite a lot.

Ryan and I are horrible at waking up early. So if we don’t feel it, we don’t do it. Though we were lucky in that our hotel was literally like 3 blocks from the duomo. So heading there was our first stop.

And since the line to go inside was nonexistent, we headed right in. Now this place is huge!

After a loop we noticed a line of people heading downstairs. Without knowing where they were going, we followed. Here you’ll find the gift shop and the Crypt of Santa Reparata.

Now Santa Reparata is actually part of a single ticket to the Il Grande Museo Del Duomo. This one ticket will grant you access to the following 5 major sites within a 48 hour period: Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry of San Giovanni, the Crypt of Santa Reparata, and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.

This combined ticket costs 15 euros a person.

This is where we bought our ticket and then checked out the Crypt. There wasn’t a lot down there, but it was interesting to not only know that people have been building here for thousands of years, but to actually see parts of the church that existed before the duomo.

After leaving the church, we swung by one of the other sites on our ticket, the Baptistry.

This octagonal building stands before the duomo and is actually the oldest of the three structures (including the campanile). The ceiling here was beautiful, but after staring up at it for a few minutes, it was time to move on.

The Mercato Centrale was probably my favorite find of the trip. The first floor is a maze of shops. The second floor a cafeteria of sorts. Over the course of our time in Florence we got numerous cappuccinos, espressos, ciabattas, salami, cheese, arancini, cannolis, pasta, croissants, and more here. We came here almost every day to grab some food for breakfast or lunch and, of course, coffee.

After fueling up, it was back to the duomo. We had to reserve our time to climb the dome because you will need a reservation. Do this at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo ( right behind the duomo here – which is where we got ours), or you can do it online . If you go to the museum to get this reservation (free and included with your ticket), the kiosk to do this is to the right inside the main door (looks like a vending machine).

Since it was already late in the day, we scheduled our climb for the following morning. This gave us the afternoon to see the campanile.

The campanile is the bell tower next to the duomo. It’s not as tall as the duomo and though the top is fenced in, it does give you views of Florence with the dome in it. If you buy your ticket, definitely check out the campanile.

Be warned though, it is a tight climb going up. There is only one stairwell for going both up and down so be prepared. Though the closer you get to the top, there are several levels where you can step off to and catch your breath.

And then, before you know it, you are at the top. Check it out from all sides but don’t forget about taking the dome photo.

Day 6: Climb The Dome & See David

If you scheduled your dome climb for the following day, then today is the day. We did ours first thing in the morning. (Which for us was at like 10:30 because we sleep in.)

Now this is a tough climb (463 steps). And since you had to reserve your climb, you can bet that a lot of people do this.

To start the climb, you’ll enter from the north side of the church (on the outside, right about here ). Now most of the way it’s steep winding staircases. Near the top you get to walk around the inside of the dome.

(This was actually the scariest part for me even with the heavy duty plexiglass.)

And then the final stretch up the side of the dome is super cramped. AND to make it more daunting, the last bit here is two-way traffic. Some passageways are so tight that you will have to push your way past others.

If you want more details on how to schedule your climb and the journey up and down, check out this post . The dome climb is the first one I cover.

And the views? Absolutely incredible.

The lantern is huge and you can easily get amazing shots from all sides. There’s no safety glass or grate blocking your view. Just you at the top of Florence.

After our climb we headed back to Mercato Centrale for some breakfast/lunch. Then we stopped by the Accademia to see David.

The line was huge. Like winding all the way back towards the road. We were not waiting in that line. And there were a ton of people around asking us if we wanted to buy a reservation.

Now whether or not these guys were legit, it doesn’t matter. I’m not a trusting person so I just say no and turn away and then ignore them until they give up.

So what if you are in the same place we were? Want to see David but didn’t buy your ticket in advance? Come back before closing!!! Read on for more details!

After turning away from the massive line, Ryan and I spent the afternoon at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo . (One of the five sites you get access to with a single ticket to the Il Grande Museo Del Duomo.)

This is an underrated museum and it was not crowded. Here you’ll learn all about the duomo and its history. And the most interesting thing we learned?

The facade of the duomo – the actual face of the church – was unfinished for centuries! Like the rest of the church and dome were finished in the 1400s, but the face of it wasn’t completed until the late 1800s!! I was shocked when I read this.

And finding out why this happened was actually quite fascinating for me. So if you bought the ticket, then I would take a quick tour through the museum to get your money’s worth.

Ryan and I then wandered through Florence stopping for photos and gelato before heading back to the Galleria Dell’Accademia. The museum closes at 6:50pm. And Ryan and I got there at about 5:50pm.

No one was in line to get tickets. We literally walked right up to the ticket booth and bought our tickets.

No waiting to go through the metal detector.

And then we shared the actual space with only a few others. I’ve seen pictures of the hall packed. But for us, it seemed almost empty.

It was absolutely perfect.

And we didn’t have to pay any exorbitant fee to buy our ticket in advance fee. (The next night another American couple told us at dinner that they paid almost twice as much as the normal ticket price to buy one in advance. No thank you.)

Price: 8 euros per person Location: Google Map Hours/Days: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15am to 6:50pm (Closed Mondays)

Day 7: Day Trip To Pisa

If you are in Florence for as long as we were (4 full days), then you can do at least 1 day trip. We decided to base ourselves in Florence and then do day trips so we wouldn’t be changing accommodation all the time and lugging our bags about.

This was perfect for us.

So our main day trip for this trip was to see the leaning tower of Pisa. Now before you even ask, yes this is a super touristy thing to do. But guess what?

I still wanted to do it. I still wanted to see the famous leaning tower. And yes, I still wanted to take that photo of me “propping” up the tower.

And guess what again? We had an amazing time going to Pisa.

Be prepared for crowds and figure out in advance if you want to climb the tower . (18 euros per person was incredibly expensive.) And you’ll have to reserve your climb. And drop off your bags at the bag drop. All the details here on how to do this.

Find out all you need to know on how to get to Pisa, how to take a regional train, how to schedule your climb, and more in m y post here on our day trip !

Ryan and I got a late-ish start to the day but we still managed to be in Pisa for several hours and climb the tower and go in the church.

Day 8: Wander & See More Museums (Or Day Trip?)

It’s time to hit up all the things you haven’t done yet. Here were our must-dos for the day:

Go to the Galileo Museum . Because we are science nerds and this was fascinating for us.
Eat another sandwich. Because oh my god are they good .
Take the lion eating david photo. Because I had to.
Go to the Cafe At The Rinascente Department Store for sunset. Because the view from the top of the department store is incredible. More details at the bottom of this post .

But what about you? What do you want to do? Here are two things we didn’t do but I would consider for next time:

Uffizi Gallery. This is considered like the main museum in Florence (besides David). But we just weren’t feeling it for our trip. I can’t give you a good reason why. I just was museum-ed out. So we passed on it.

But it is considered a must-see. There is some great and impressive art here. And if you want to go…GO! Here is information on tickets . And to buy your ticket in advance, click Get The Ticket button part-way down that page. (Also note that the museum is closed on Mondays.)

Day Trip To Tuscany. This was on my list. Siena, Lucca, San Gimignano…that last one was one I really wanted to see. Something about all those towers. But as I looked into how to actually get there, I realized it was no easy feat. And it would make for one very long day if we did it on our own with all those changes.

We could have gone on a tour and we actually looked into a few. But quickly realized it would be either one of those huge day trip tours with lots of people or way out of our budget. And I just didn’t have the strength to do all of that research.

So instead we vowed to come back. To one day make our way back to Tuscany and San Gimignano to see all those towers.

But I would look into your options here if you want to check out some of the smaller towns. Siena and Lucca are easy to get to via trains. San Gimignano is another story. But I would take a look and see what appeals to you.

How To Get To Florence

If you’re coming from one of the other cities (like we were) then take the train! Florence is called Firenze on the machines (see my Venice section for all my advice about these machines). And the station you are looking for is Santa Maria Novella (also referenced by just SMN).

You can also fly into Florence and catch a bus to the city center. More information on how to get to / from the airport here .

Now once you are in Florence, I would just walk everywhere. So many streets in the tourist center are pedestrian only. From the duomo down to the Piazza della Signoria it’s all pedestrian. We never took a taxi or an Uber or anything. Just used our own two legs. (And one of my knees was really hurting this trip so that’s saying something that I could walk everywhere.)

Where To Eat & Drink In Florence

Breakfast / lunch.

Mercato Centrale. I think we stopped here everyday to get something. Either a cappuccino. A plate of pasta. A ciabatta with cheese (so good!). A cannoli. You get the idea. And usually (since we sleep in) we did a combined breakfast / lunch. Below are all the places we enjoyed:

On the bottom floor, we grabbed pasta from Pasta Fresca which is just a little window but still delicious.
We also got a quiche from one of the corner stores and some salami and cheese from a counter shop. For this second one, we came just after they opened so we could ask the salami/cheese guy his recommendations and not hold up all the locals up in line.
But the second floor is where it’s at. We started almost everyday with a cappuccino from the Il Bar E El Caffetteria and either a baguette or a ciabatta from Il Pane E La Pasticceria.
I also got some arancini and cannolis from carts scattered around this upper floor.

All’Antico Vinaio . The best sandwiches alive. They have an establishment on either side of the road, but I would go for the sandwich counter one (not the restaurant). You have a few choices (we ended up eating 4 out of 5 of the options) and they have descriptions of each in English and Italian. The sandwiches themselves are huge and simple. But also delicious and cheap. Just 5 euros for one of these sandwiches!

Gelateria Dei Neri . Who doesn’t love gelato? And it’s good at all hours of the day. This ended up being our go to spot (probably because it was so close to the sandwich place above). I loved mixing the pistachio with the chocolate.

Icche c’e c’e . I’m not even going to pretend to try to pronounce it. This is a small trattoria. We were looking for some place good and a bit authentic. Here we got great service, good food, and some awesome bonuses (like limoncello at end the meal). This place isn’t fancy. But it was good.

Il Santo Bevitore . I think this was the best meal we had in Florence. And we almost didn’t get to eat here. Luckily we went early and they were able to squeeze us in before a later 8pm reservation. The pasta was outstanding and the house wine was delicious. This is a buys place (lots of locals and tourists). So don’t be like us and get a reservation in advance!

Gusta Pizza . Cheap & delicious pizza? With a line out the door? You know this is going to be good. We arrived 15 minutes before they opened and was like the 4th group in line. This is how it goes: you order at the counter (they also have wine by the glass or bottle) and then take a seat if there is one. You can also get pizza to go if there are no seats available. Expect to share tables with other groups. Don’t sit down and expect a waiter. Order first.

Osteria Santo Spirito . Another great dinner place that you need to make a reservation for. We showed up at prime time (not a good idea) and made a reservation for 10pm that night. What I really liked about this place was that you could order half portions. This allowed us to both get appetizers, pasta, risotto, and some rabbit. Service is kind of slow here…but you’re in Italy. Enjoy the food and relax.

Where To Drink

Le Volpi e l’Uva . It took us awhile to warm up to this wine bar. We did not like it at first. But once we got seats at the counter and the bartender saw that we knew our wines, he warmed up to us. Though they did end up charging us twice for some things (but we decided not to complain because sometimes it’s just not worth it). Expect high prices for wine here and a fair amount of Americans.

Friends Pub . Sometimes you just need a good, friendly Irish pub to grab a drink in. And that was Friends for us. This was a quieter place. But it allowed us to grab a beer or a glass of wine and just chill out in the evening.

Volume . This definitely seemed more like an Italian place. I didn’t see much foreigners there when we went around 8pm or so. Though our bartender did speak some English. To get a drink here, we grabbed some menus, sat, and ordered our drinks from a waiter. When he brought them we paid. He also brought around some (free!) nibbles (apertivo maybe) but we only had to buy a drink to get it. And the food was good! To get another drink we flagged him down again. I have a feeling though this place gets much busier later on (after dinner).

Where To Stay In Florence

Mabelle Firenze Residenza Gambrinus looked like the nicest hotel in the area at its price point ($100/night). We were just a few blocks from the duomo located on Piazza della Repubblica. The hotel itself is kind of like a small suite in a much larger building. And though there is an elevator, it’s like on the 5th floor so be aware. Checking in was easy (though be sure you get there when the reception is open) and the room was beautiful. We had no trouble with anything. We loved its location and I’d definitely consider it if we returned to Florence.

Days 9-10: Milan

Day 9: go to milan.

After grabbing another breakfast at Mercato Centrale (I know surprise, surprise), we hopped on the train to Milan.

I had grabbed an AirBnb close to the main train station so we wouldn’t have a long walk. The room was lovely and the hosts were incredibly responsive and helpful.

After getting settled we headed back to the main train station and hopped on the yellow metro line to the Duomo stop.

The duomo was okay. Very impressive and beautiful…but so many people and pigeons. We took a quick turn through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II before heading towards Sforzesco Castle .

The castle and duomo are a little over 1km apart but it’s relatively easy to get between the two just by walking. You’ll stay on Via Dante for most of the way.

The castle itself was much more fortress-like than any of the other palaces we saw. But yet also felt uniquely Italian. We didn’t have time to go inside, so we just strolled the grounds for a bit before heading back towards the duomo.

After an okay dinner, we grabbed the metro back.

Tip! There are a ton of rose guys here and jewelry guys. These “salesmen” stand in popular areas and harass you to try to get you to buy something from them. Don’t ever take anything from them. They won’t take it back and will demand you pay for it. If for some reason you do get it in your hands, just drop it on the ground and walk away. The jewelry guys will try to drape it on you, just keep walking and they’ll pull it off.

They are trying to get you to take it and demand payment. Don’t take it. And if for some reason you do (they like to shove it in peoples’ faces and catch them off guard), drop it on the ground and walk away!

In our few short hours in Milan we experienced this everywhere. Here are two examples. 1) When I was trying to take a photo of the castle a rose guy literally shoved a rose at me in my face and camera. I had to tell him to back the f*ck off and quickly walked away. 2) A jewelry guy laid a bracelet on Ryan’s arm as we walked by hoping to get him to touch it/grab it, we just kept walking and he pulled it away.

Day 10: Head Home

Time to say goodbye to Italy. We woke up early to grab the train to the airport. Over an hour ride there for us so be prepared for this. Then we waited in line to check our bags for like an hour. Luckily it was smooth sailing after that.

How To Get Around Milan

Take the metro. Buy your ticket from one of the ticket machines. On the first screen they’ll ask you for your language so it’s easy to switch to English. We just bought one-way tickets each time (1.5 euros per person each way). And then hold on to your ticket. You’ll need it to both enter and exit the metro.

We rode the yellow line from the central train station to the Duomo station.

How To Get To the Airport

You’ll want to take the Malpensa Express back to the airport. This will be on the smaller Trenord lines. You can buy a ticket from a Malpensa Express or Trenord ticket machine. Maybe even a Trenitalia ticket machine. You’ll need to validate it (via a box on the platform) then board.

Be aware that the ride can take over an hour. Here is a page with more information on the trains.

Where To Eat In Milan

Granaio was okay. Located right near the duomo it was a bit overpriced and mediocre. We knew that going in though and didn’t want to hunt for some place to eat. But the risotto was decent and we didn’t want to go looking for anything. I just wanted to eat. Not sure I’d recommend it, but you could at least avoid it if you wanted to.

Where To Stay In Milan

I wanted to stay near the central train station. This would allow us to hop on the train easily in the morning we left without having to navigate the metro with our bags. This was our AirBnb apartment.

And that’s it! Hopefully my Italy itinerary will help you plan your own trip!

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3 thoughts on “ 10 days in venice, florence, & milan: an italy itinerary ”.

This was absolutely perfect! My husband and I are taking our first trip in April so this blog came in most handy. You have explained everything to perfection. Thank you!!!

Thank you so much!

Hi Laura, Would you say two days in Milan, is good enough?

How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids: the itinerary you’ll love

Learn how to plan a family trip to Italy and see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days: a detailed itinerary with the best things to do each day, the best tours, and transport .

Rome, Venice and Florence are the most popular destinations for a first trip to Italy, and 10-day Italy itinerary recommendations for first-timers are among the most sought-after of all Italy travel plans.

So today, I put these two requests together and share a family-friendly Italy itinerary to see Venice, Florence and Rome in ten days!

The itinerary is based on my own experience of these cities as a visitor and a local, my own frequent trips around Italy with my kids and the best family activities we have tried in each of these destinations.

To make sure you have an itinerary that is tried and tested, I have followed closely what we have actually done in these cities as well as some additional recommendations.

Therefore, don’t be surprised if, in some places, we have skipped a ‘must-see’.

We have tailored our days to our kids and their interests and some choices are down to that.

When this happened, like in Venice, where we skipped Doge’s Palace, I gave alternatives on what you can slot in a main landmark instead.

Since I am from Rome, you’ll see I give even more options for that part of the trip!

I hope it helps get you started with your plans!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids – top 4 tips

My top tips for planning a 10-day Italy trip to the country’s most famous cities are:

Fly into Venice and out of Rome – this will allow you to maximize time on the ground and avoid backtracking. It will also allow you to start in a quieter place and get over jetlag before tackling the bustling energy of Rome.

Pack light – the temperature will be similar in the three cities and it will be easier to move around with taxis/trains if you’re not weighed down by many big bags.

Use the train – trains in Italy are fast, safe, efficient and family-friendly. On the other hand, city traffic is a nightmare, parking is a headache and, in Venice, you have no cars at all… Traveling by train is the way to go!

You can find here >>> all you need to know about train travel in Italy

How to see Venice, Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids at a glance

Day 1-3 Venice (including arrival day)
Day 3-6 Florence , with a day trip to the countryside / Tuscan small town
Day 6-10 Rome (including departure day)

Tip! I know Venice is often daunting if you have young kids. If you have very little ones, I recommend you also read my tips to tackle Venice with a baby and Venice with an active toddler

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice and orientation

Arrival and transport to your hotel
4 pm – Family scavenger with Lucia – a really fun and engaging way to discover Venice. We chose the tour in Dorsoduro since we were staying in the area, but you can also pick Riato and San Marco, should you want to hit Venice’s most famous sites
7.30pm – Dinner at San Trovaso restaurant, Calle Larga Nani, 967, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

Resources to book this day:

How to get from Marco Polo airport to your hotel
Review of Lucia’s scavenger hunt tour for kids and contacts
Family hotels in Venice
Family-friendly rentals in Venice
What to eat in Venice

Child in Venice looking at a canal from a bridge while doing a kids' tour

Day 2 – Venice highlights and family activities

This is a very busy day. However, we wanted to do all these activities and couldn’t find them in any differently so this is exactly what we did!

The day was a huge success for us and while I don’t recommend having all days as structured as this one, it most definitely worked for us!

8.30am Early morning photoshoot in San Marco area ( wonderful to see the piazza without the crowds, we even caught the sunrise over the Accademia Bridge – magical!). Book with Marta of Flytographer (she’s wonderful!) via my referral link – tell her I say hi!
10.30am Glass-making workshops in the city center with Fabio, only a few minutes from Piazza San Marco, very easy to reach. Book here >>> via Airbnb experiences
1.00pm Lunch in La Colonna in Cannaregio, Campiello Widmann già Biri, 53/29, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
3.00pm Rowing class with RowVenice . Click >>> here <<< to book direct
4.00pm walk back to our hotel via Cannregio and wonderful Acqua Alta Bookshop. Remember: you’ll like need to head back to the glass making workshop to collect your creation after it has been cooked and has cooled down!
1 9.00 Dinner ar OKE Zattere, Sestiere Dorsoduro 1414, 30123 Venice Italy

child during a Murano glass makng wokrshop in Venice city center

Flytographer – use this link or by using code CODE1693297 for a 25$ discount on your first session
Glassmaking workshop from via Airbnb experiences
RowVenice class direct with RowVenice
If you prefer different activities, find here >>> our complete guide to visiting Venice with kids

Day 3 Venice and train to Florence

Free morning out and about Venice. We loved to keep this morning free and wandered the area of Dorsoduro, Arsenale (Castello) and San Giorgio Island with great pleasure. However, you can also spend this morning visiting Doge’s Palace or, train schedule permitting, visiting the Islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello.
12.30pm – Lunch in Osteria dei Pugni, Fondamenta Gherardini, 2836, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
2.00pm – Vaporetto to train station to see Rialto bridge on the way (we bought the ticket there and then. For this stay, we did not need a Vaporetto pass.
4.00pm – Train to Florence
Arrival in Florence and Check into your hotel
Dinner in Martare, Via Degli Alfani 93/r, 50121, Firenze
Info about train travel in Italy
High-speed train booking site (direct)
Where to stay in Florence with kids
If visiting the islands, look at this tour by Matteo on Airbnb Experiences

Day 4 – Florence

Morning – Florence sketch tour . This tour + drawing class is a great way to get a walk around Florence’s city center with a local, get the kids engaged with a hands-on task and learn about the art and history that makes Florence so unique. Book here >>> Florence sketching tour: tell them the age of your kids so they can tailor it to their needs!
1.30pm – Lunch at NeroCarbone , Via del Parione, 43/45r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. An informal Tuscan bistrot with few tables and small yet delicious menu. Try the book to get the table at the window for the best space/ light.
Afternoon – Florence city center walk and Interactive Leonardo Museum. No need to book this one! We love keeping one afternoon free in Florence as the center is compact and easy to navigate. Also, has lovely shops!
Sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo for views: you can walk / take the bus here or come in comfort with a short taxi ride
Dinner at Antico Noe, Volta di San Piero 6/8/R, 50122, Florence Italy

Resources to book this day

Florence tour with drawing by LivTours
See also >> Our family guide to Florence with kids for alternative ideas.

Day 5 – Day trip to the Tuscany Countryside

All day trip – The Tuscany countryside is a dream but it is not easy to visit in a short amount of time or without a car, but we’ve found a way!

A short train ride from Florence lies Tenuta Chiudendone, a gorgeous hilltop villa that offers a one-day experience to have a full immersion in Tuscany in a day.

With them, you spend a day wandering around the garden, visiting their vines, cooking a delicious meal, eating and lounging at their pool, all in a family-friendly atmosphere!

Contact Isabella via their website tell her Marta from MamaLovesItaly sent you >>> Tenuta Chiudendone

Winter alternative: outside of the good season, I recommend you bring the kids to Lucca instead and get bikes to go along the walls of this pretty Tuscan town. Find here >>> our guide to Lucca with kids

Dinner at SignorVino, for a quick platter and wine after a day with a lot of food! Via de’ Bardi, 46/R 48/R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Ask them if they have the tasting option available that allows you to taste three local wines with your meal!

one day in Lucca feature image: piazza dell'anfiteatro

Day 6 Florence Uffizi Museum and train to Rome

Morning visit to the Uffizi with a kid-friendly guide: for me, a must-have in such a large and traditional museum. See price and book here >>> Uffizi Family experience
1.30 pm – Lunch at Mercato Centrale (upstairs)
Early afternoon – Train to Rome and taxi to your hotel. Check-in and settle in.
Dinner at Emma (Book in advance!) Via del Monte della Farina, 28, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Right in the center!
Top tip! Emma is right in the city center. Depending on where you are staying, you should be able to take a lovely evening walk around the Pantheon/ Piazza Navona / Trev Fountain, wonderful at night!

Uffizi Family Tour by LivTours
Official train booking website
Where to stay in Rome with kids (family hotels and apartments)
Best of Rome with kids (on Amazon) – my family guide to the city, with tips, tours and scavenger hunt sheets for kids to he;p them explore Rome city center.

Day 7 – Rome Colosseum and city center

9.00 am Family tour of Rome Colosseum with arena access by LivTours . There are a million tours but this is my top pick for kid-friendliness and access to the arena floor (where the gladiators fought!)
12.00 Light lunch in Cafe Cafe Bistrot , Via Dei Santi Quattro 44, 00184 Rome Italy (or proper sit down one in nearby Naumachia or even in Birreria Peroni near Piazza Venezia)
2.00 pm Relax in Colle Oppio park , with coffee and a view over the Colosseum
4pm – City center treasure hunt tour with MariaClaudia Tours , a super engaging tour to discover the Trevi / Pantheon area, one of the most central and famous in Rome. Tell her Marta from MamaLovesItaly sent you!

Top tip! If you think all the walking would be too much for your kids, you can also book a golf cart tour with LivTours (they can also coordinate it with your Colosseum booking). A fun and relaxing way to explore!

Dinner at Grappolo d’oro , P.za della Cancelleria, 80, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Day 8 – Rome city center and cooking class

Morning – free morning wandering around Rome city center . You can use my guide on Amazon to help you find tp spots and hidden gems! Stay around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona / Piazza della Minerva area. Treat the kids to a fun stop at Ikono Roma should they need a break from sightseeing
1.00pm Lunch at Enoteca Corsi , Via del Gesù, 87/88, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
3.30 pm Castel Sant’Angelo – once tomb of the emperors, then Papa fortress and finally a museum, this is one of the best places in Rome to visit with kids and one you can easily enjoy without a guide.
Dinner – Kid-friendly pasta class with Lucilla, a fantastic hands-on class that will teach you to make pasta and will have you have a lovely dinner in a local’s home! Contact her on Instagram and tell her I sent you!

Day 9 Rome: Vatican and Borghese Gardens

Morning in Vatican City – if visiting the museums, I highly recommend booking a kid-friendly tour such as this one , to keep them engaged in such as vast, traditional and busy museum. You don’t need a tour of the basilica or the piazza.
Have lunch in Il Sorpasso , Via Properzio, 31/33, 00193 Roma RM, Italy , then gelato in Cremilla nearby!
Afternoon in Borghese Gardens : hop on a taxi and relax in the stunning Borghese Gardens, where you can rent boats and bikes. Make sure you regain the center via the Pincio terrace (view) and then the Spanish Steps.
Dinner in cul de sac , Piazza di Pasquino, 73, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Vatican city, St peter square and basilica

Day 10 – free morning and departure

If you have a full day before your flight, find here >> 70 things to do in Rome with kids that can help you fill the time no matter how long / little time you have (my favorite is Nero’s Domus Aurea, if open!)

I hope you enjoyed this 10 day Italy itinerary to see Venice, Florence and Rome in ten days with kids. Safe travels!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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A Week In... Venice, Florence & Rome

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TAUCK'S YELLOW ROADS – Travel from Florence through the Chianti hills, in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, on a day trip to Badia di Passignano; the hilly landscape, basking in golds and greens, is filled with vineyards and olive groves

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Discover the art of Florence through the eyes of an art expert during a private, after-hours guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery with a local expert

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – After-hours guided visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, without the crowds; see the treasures of the Vatican unhurried, at your own pace

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Special cellar tour and wine-pairing lunch featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine and local wine plus an olive-oil tasting at the osteria of a famed monastery in the Chianti hills

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Enjoy a locally-guided walking tour in Venice and a cruise by gondola on the canals

See historic landmarks sights of Imperial Rome through the eyes of a local guide

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

All roads lead to Rome... They wind toward the Eternal City from Venice, labyrinthine city of art, romance, and palazzo-lined waterways... or to Florence, hip center of fashion, finance and culture, where Gucci, da Vinci, the Renaissance, and gold currency were born... They are the backroads that embark on a sojourn through the vineyards of Tuscany, sampling wine and local cuisine... They arrive at the hub of the Ancient World, in the heart of the modern metropolis, to discover the glories of Rome... And in today's modern Italy, the roads are joined by high-speed rail that closes the distance and makes the most of your time... a journey of timeless pleasures...

Traveling by high speed train from Venice to Florence and Rome reveals Italy's history in just one week... etched into art in the Uffizi... poured in Tuscan wines aged in a 4th-century abbey cellar... sculpted in timeless antiquities and architectural masterpieces... and frescoed with astonishing splendor in the Vatican Museums. Take a walking tour of Venice with a local guide. Meet Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli and other Renaissance artists at the Uffizi Gallery during a private after-hours visit. Attend a wine-pairing lunch, with a taste of locally produced olive oil and cellar-aged Sangiovese wines. In Rome, go to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel after hours – no lines, no waiting...

High-speed train travel between cities

Days 3 and 6

Travel aboard a high-speed train between the cities of Venice, Florence and Rome

During your journey, you'll travel between Italy's great cities of Venice, Florence and Rome aboard Italy's network of modern, high-speed intercity trains. Thanks to Italy's high-tech rail infrastructure, the country's high-speed trains connect many of Italy's major cities, including the three you'll be exploring. There are several high-speed train networks across the country, such as Trenitalia's Alta Velocità (AV) trains. Whichever line you're traveling aboard, Italy's high-speed trains are fast, efficient, and fun.

Tauck Exclusive – After-hours at the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Explore the treasures of the vatican museums and the sistine chapel... without the crowds.

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 1500s, the Vatican Museums display classical and religious works of art collected by the Popes throughout the centuries. Combined with the Sistine Chapel, they're visited by around six million people a year, ranking among the most-visited art museums in the world. On your Tauck Exclusive, after-hours, guided visit, you'll explore the Candelabra Gallery, the Map Gallery, the Tapestries, and the Sistine Chapel… all without the usual crowds. So you'll be able to take your time to contemplate the inspirational treasures before you – including the spectacular biblical frescoes on the ceiling, which took Michelangelo four years to paint, standing on a scaffold... and changed the course of western art.

Hotel Bernini Palace

Nights 3, 4 and 5

Florentine luxury and prestige in a 15th-century palace behind Piazza della Signoria...

Overlooking Palazzo Vecchio at the center of Florentine as well as Italian art and history – and set within a 15th-century palace just a stone's throw from the River Arno – the Hotel Bernini Palace is now one of the most exclusive retreats in Florence, the "city of the Renaissance."

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Venice, Italy

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Italy. You will not require a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of Italy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Venice Visitor Fee – Exemption Request Instructions:

Go to the Exemption Request page on the City of Venice's website: https://cda.comune.venezia.it/en/richiestaEsenzione
Under "Reason for requesting exemption" select "I am a guest of an accommodation facility located in the municipality of Venice."
Select "Request exemption."
Enter the dates you'll be entering and leaving Venice. (These dates can be found in the personal travel documents you received via email from Tauck.) Hit "Next."
Enter your personal details. (For "Date of birth," click on the blank field. A calendar page showing the current month and year will appear. Click repeatedly in this header area to navigate to the century of your birth, then select the appropriate decade, year, month and day.) You will also enter your place of birth, email and home residence. For "Residence," enter your home address in the USA
Under "Accommodation and address name," search for or manually enter the name and address of your hotel in Venice. Please note: The name and address of your Venice hotel can be found in the personal travel documents you received via email from Tauck. Read the Privacy Policy by clicking the link (this will activate the check box), then check the box and select "Next."
If you are traveling with friends or family, select "Add Holder" and fill out their details. Complete this step for everyone in your travel party, then select "Next."
On the Contact Information page: If you select PHONE you will need to enter your phone number and then make a toll-free call to the number listed on the subsequent page, within the indicated time. If you select EMAIL you will need to enter your email address, and you will then receive an OTP code via that email address to enter on the subsequent page of the application.
Verify that all the information you've entered is correct, then click "Confirm."
You will then be brought to a page where you can download the required QR code for your visit to Venice. (We recommend emailing the QR code to yourself, to ensure easy access to it later.) Please note that you will need to keep your QR code with you throughout your time in Venice, as failure to do so may result in a fine.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

Tour Name and Departure Date
Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
Traveler's Address(es)
Email Address*
Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 90 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

Trip Cancellation – If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
Trip Interruption – If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
Travel Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.
Baggage / Personal Effects Protection – Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services – Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449 per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $600 per person

89-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Italy. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally , please contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion. Italy is home to innumerable historic buildings and sites, some dating from antiquity. Therefore, roads, walkways and architecture will present difficulties for some guests with physical limitations. You will encounter cobblestone streets, narrow passageways, and some steep and winding staircases.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list here.

The weather in Italy is temperate and unpredictable. Generally, spring and fall average high temperatures in the regions explored on this journey range from 53 to 81 °F (12 to 27 °C) and summer high temperatures range from 76 to 88 °F (24 to 31 °C), though temperatures are frequently over 90 °F (32 °C) in summer. Rain falls evenly throughout the year in Venice, but more seasonally in Rome, where summers are dryer than winters. Venice experiences very high humidity, with hot weather in July and August. Due to its location on the Adriatic coast, Venice often experiences thunderstorms and rain showers which, particularly in spring and autumn, tend to cause flooding, known as the "acqua alta". Rainfall in Florence is twice that in Rome.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

When packing for your trip to Italy, it is important to keep in mind the time of year you are traveling and the current weather conditions for that time. The weather in Italy is temperate and unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.

Most Catholic churches in Italy require that your knees and shoulders be covered when you enter, even during the hot days of summer. This is particularly important when you visit St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, where shorts, tank tops and other off-the-shoulder tops are not allowed.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. By law in Italy, irons and ironing boards are not made available to guests at hotels. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
Optional: Jacket and tie for men
Optional: Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
Insect repellent
Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function
Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
Daypack for camera equipment
Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Kate Storm standing with her back to the camera along the Grand Canal, a must-see during a Florence to Venice day trip! Gondolas are parked along the canal and Kate is wearing a cream sweater.

How to Take a Fun Florence to Venice Day Trip (No Tour Necessary!)

Considering taking a Florence to Venice day trip when you’re in Italy?

It’s a popular day trip option, and with a fast train available that takes around 2.5 hours to travel between the two beautiful cities, it’s easy to see why.

That being said, it’s the not right day trip for everyone, and complicating factors (namely Venice’s infamous crowds) make visiting Venice for a day from Florence stressful for some travelers.

We adore both cities and have lost count of how many times we’ve visited each of them, and these two things sum up our thoughts on taking a Florence to Venice day trip: it’s a perfectly valid option that many people will adore… but we do not consider Venice one of the best day trips from Florence .

If you want to go, though, a little pre-planning can make all the difference between and overwhelming day and one where you walk away enchanted with the City of Canals!

If you’re considering a day trip to Venice from Florence, here’s everything you need to know before you go: how to get there, what to do, and whether a Venice day trip is the right option for your travel style.

Table of Contents

The #1 Rule for a Florence to Venice Day Trip

How to get to venice from florence independently, what to do on a day trip to venice from florence, travel tips for your day trip to venice from florence, what about the venice day trip tax.

Photo of Venice canal with footbridge in the distance

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Taking a day trip to Venice from Florence is popular, but the most important rule to follow when doing so is simply this: manage your expectations.

Venice is a crowded city, yes, but never more so than during the middle of the day when the daytrippers are out and about, and you’ll likely have to contend with very heavy crowds at popular spots like the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco on your Venice day trip.

Taking a Venice day trip from Florence also makes for a very long day in which you’ll spend nearly 5 hours on trains, then potentially additional time on a vaporetto (water bus) once you arrive in Venice.

And, of course, there’s no way to see everything Venice has to offer on a Florence to Venice day trip, so you’ll need to pick and choose which parts of Venice to see carefully.

If you have your heart set on going, I don’t want to discourage you–if a Florence to Venice day trip was my only opportunity to see Venice for the foreseeable future, I can’t say I wouldn’t go myself–but I do want to be clear that it will be a long day and you likely won’t see Venice at its very best.

If that sounds like a fair trade-off in order to have a chance to admire Italy’s stunningly beautiful canal city, here’s how to make the most of it!

Kate in a striped dress in Venice looking toward the bridge of sighs--definitely worth seeing during one day in Venice! Kate has a yellow ribbon in her hair.

When taking a Florence to Venice day trip, there is exactly one method of transportation that makes sense: the fast train.

Slower, regional trains and driving yourself both take way too long and aren’t viable for a day trip, but the fast train will take you from Florence to Venice (and vice versa) in a bit over two hours, and several trains run each day.

These trains have dynamic pricing, and the closer you get to your day trip to Venice, the more expensive the tickets will be.

For that reason, we suggest purchasing your tickets as soon as you can commit to your dates!

We recommend searching for train tickets through Omio , which will search multiple train companies and help you find the best tickets and schedule for your Venice day trip.

Shop fast train tickets to Venice today!

Photo of the Venice Grand Canal as seen from Ponte dell'Accademia

Be sure to buy tickets from Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station–don’t accidentally buy tickets for (or get off at) Venezia Mestre!

Also, keep in mind that once you get off the train in Venice, you’re not quite to the center of town yet.

From the train station, y ou’ll need to either walk or take a vaporetto for 20 minutes (we recommend getting off at the Rialto Bridge) to reach the heart of Venice’s sightseeing.

If you plan to take a few vaporetto rides during your day in Venice, you might want to purchase a 24-hour vaporetto pass –the per-ride tickets are a bit pricey as far as public transportation goes.

Either way is a lovely way to start your day trip, however, an impromptu Grand Canal cruise of sorts via vaporetto as you arrive in Venice for the first time never fails to impress!

Grand Canal of Venice with a gondola in the center

Since Venice is a small, walkable city, it’s possible to cover several of the city’s famous highlights in a single day!

We more or less recommend following our one day Venice itinerary during your day trip, however, you’ll likely need to trim a few things here and there to leave time to travel from Florence to Venice and back.

Here are a few ideas to give you an idea of what you can see on a day trip to Venice.

Pay a visit to Piazza San Marco.

Piazza San Marco is Venice’s (enormous) best-known piazza.

Set right up against the lagoon and home to several of the city’s most famous sights, Piazza San Marco is busy and bustling, and generally quite crowded with vendors and tourists alike.

While you’re there, take a stroll through the piazza–it really is lovely–and if you’re so inclined, take an iconic photo with Venice’s pigeons (not our thing, but it’s a popular thing to do!) or sip a (very expensive) coffee at one of the famous cafes that line the piazza (Caffe Florian is the best-known).

Seek views of Venice from above.

Venice from above is an absolutely beautiful sight, and even on a Venice day trip, we recommend squeezing a view in.

San Marco Campanile has the best views of Venice, but is crowded and often comes with long lines.

Scala Contarini del Bovolo has a less impressive view (no water) but is still an excellent place to visit and is much, much less crowded.

San Giorgio Maggiore is located a short vaporetto ride across the lagoon from Piazza San Marco, making it a bit more of an unusual choice on a day trip (you’ll likely have to sacrifice other things on your day trip itinerary to squeeze it in), but offers our favorite view of the three and a chance to see a side of Venice that very few day trippers do!

Any of them would be a fabulous addition to your day trip to Venice!

Kate Storm looking toward San Marco Campanile from Scala Contarini del Bovolo, which is an excellent place to visit during 2 days in Venice

Stroll across the Rialto Bridge.

Of the four bridges that cross Venice’s Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is both the oldest and the loveliest, with shops lining both sides of the stone bridge.

Once upon a time, the Rialto Bridge was the only way to cross the Grand Canal without boarding a boat!

While crossing the bridge, be sure to take the time to admire the Grand Canal views from both directions, and once you’re finished on the bridge itself, be sure to spend a little time browsing the nearby Rialto Market.

Girl in striped dress standing in front of Rialto Bridge in Venice Italy

Marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica.

Dripping in Byzantine-style detail and utterly opulent, St. Mark’s Basilica is an icon of Venice and absolutely worth a visit.

Lines can get very long though, so on your Florence to Venice day trip, you’ll likely want to purchase skip-the-line tickets (available for 3 Euros) to tour the inside.

Alternatively, you can simply take a moment to admire the exterior –but the interior is where this church truly (and literally) shines.

Be sure to check out the mosaics and the Horses of St. Mark (the ones visible outside are a replica, the originals are inside–you can see them if you go inside and pay a few extra Euro to head to the small second-floor museum and balcony).

Close up of facade of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice

Ride a gondola through the canals of Venice.

This bucket-list item comes with a steep price tag, but if you’ve always dreamed of gliding along the Venetian canals in a gondola, it definitely belongs on your list of what to do on your Venice day trip!

We have a full guide to taking a gondola ride in Venice that we recommend reading if you plan to take one, but essentially, you don’t need to worry about booking ahead if you’re taking a private ride, but it’s helpful if you’re taking a shared one!

As of 2024, gondola rides run 90 Euro per boat and each boat can hold up to five people.

For a private ride, all you’ll need to do is find an uncrowded docking point (we personally liked launching from Dorsoduro , near the Ponte dell’Accademia), but for a shared ride, having a scheduled group to split the cost with is a great idea–especially when you’re short on time.

Book your shared gondola ride in Venice now!

Photo of Venice Canal with a gondolier paddling in the corner

Stroll along the Riva degli Schiavoni.

If you walk between San Marco Campanile and the Doge’s Palace toward the water, you’ll very quickly find yourself on the waterfront of the Venetian Lagoon–the Riva degli Schiavoni.

From here, you’ll have beautiful views of gondolas bobbing in the water, San Giorgio Maggiore across the water, and–if you turn left and keep walking–the Bridge of Sighs.

(And if you want to visit San Giorgio Maggiore, as we mentioned above, you’ll find the vaporetto launch point here too).

Admire the Bridge of Sighs.

While the Bridge of Sighs is technically more famous for the view from the bridge than the view of the bridge (as the story goes, prisoners crossing the bridge to await their fate in court would sigh at the beauty of the lagoon–often for the last time), there’s no doubt that it’s worth admiring from the outside, too!

Photo of Bridge of Sighs as seen from the RIva degli Schiavoni in Venice

Seek some peace in the quiet(er) sestieri of Venice.

While the two most popular sestieri, or neighborhoods of central Venice (San Marco and San Polo) can feel overwhelming with their large tourist crowds, as you stroll further out into Castello, Dorsoduro , or Cannaregio, Venice quickly becomes a much quieter place–so much so that it’s fairly easy to have a view of a small Venetian canal all to yourself!

Be sure to make one of these neighborhoods part of your Venice day trip, especially if you tend to be turned off of a destination by heavy crowds.

Small canal in Venice on a sunny day, lined by windows with flowerboxes

Don’t expect to see it all.

Obviously this is the first rule of any day trip, but it bears repeating here: taking a Florence to Venice day trip can be lots of fun, and definitely worth the effort to the right traveler, but it makes for a long, busy day… and you won’t see it all.

Limit your lines–skip-the-line tickets are your friend.

If you have your heart set on touring the Doge’s Palace or marveling at the interior of St. Mark’s Basilica on your day trip to Venice, you’ll definitely need skip-the-line tickets–you won’t have a minute to waste!

Book your tour of the Doge’s Palace + St. Mark’s Basilica today! Not into tours but still want to see the palace? You can still skip the line at the Doge’s Palace by purchasing a priority ticket advance.

View from the roof of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice Italy--this spot is among the best views of Venice!

Make use of the vaporettos.

As tempting as it may be to spend the entire day walking through Venice–and it would indeed make for a lovely Venice day trip if you’re not particular about seeing any specific sights–be sure to make use of the vaporettos (AKA waterbuses) when it makes sense throughout your stay.

We’d recommend a vaporetto ride as soon as you arrive–not only will you be able to start your sightseeing in the heart of Venice’s touristic center that way, you’ll also start your Venice day trip with absolutely sublime views as you travel down the Grand Canal by vaporetto.

Buy your Venice transportation pass now to save time on the ground!

view of a vaporetto driving across the venetian lagoon visiting islands of venice italy

Keep an eye on the time.

It’s easy to lose track of time and distance when you’re meandering through the beautiful streets and small footbridges of Venice–but be sure that you leave enough time during the early evening in Venice to get back to the train!

If you’re planning on returning to the train station via vaporetto, be sure to leave a buffer in case there are crowds during rush hour.

Dress comfortably (and pack light).

More than 4.5 hours on trains, several hours of walking, plenty of stairs and bridges… the more comfortably you can dress on your day trip to Venice from Florence, the better.

Opt for layers, comfortable footwear, and a day bag that you feel comfortable hauling around all day ( we carry this one just about everywhere).

Jeremy Storm wearing a gray t shirt on the roof of St. Mark's Basilica--definitely worth visiting this spot during your day trip to Venice from Florence!

Leave time for breaks.

Long day trips can often come with awkward time lags: after rushing to get there and rushing through the first few hours of sightseeing, you can often come to a point where you’re tired, a little disoriented, and not quite sure how to handle the rest of your day (at least, that’s how it often goes for us).

Luckily, Venice is the perfect environment for taking picturesque breaks to figure out your next sightseeing steps!

S ure, sitting down at a cafe overlooking a canal is a bit pricey, but it’s a great way to take a break and regroup during your Venice day trip, too.

tagliere platter and spritzes in campo santa margherita in venice italy

Don’t try to see the distant outer islands on your Venice day trip.

As tempting as it may be to squeeze in a visit to the glass-blowing island of Murano or the colorful fishing village of Burano , your day trip to Venice is already going to be packed full of activity and a whole host of transportation logistics–it’s not worth it to try to squeeze in an outer island that will eat into a big chunk of your day.

Burano, for example, is a 45-minute vaporetto ride each way from Venice.

Photo of kate storm overlooking colorful houses of Burano from a bridge on a day trip from Venice to Burano.

As you’ve been researching your trip to Venice, you’ve quite possibly come across some confusing information about Venice charging a day trip tax to visitors who don’t spend the night.

… Or that they will soon, or that it has been postponed, or some combination thereof.

So what’s the status of the tax as of 2024?

gondola being steered a across the grand canal, a memorable sight on an itinerary for venice in 2 days

Long story short, after years of debate and delays, Venice is charging some daytrippers an entry fee as of April 2024.

For 2024, the tax (or entry fee, if you will) applies to people visiting Venice for the day on one of these specific dates .

You can check if your date qualifies, see if you or anyone in your party (like children under the age of 14) qualifies for an exception, as well as pay the fee, on the official website .

If you’re spending at least one night in Venice, this fee doesn’t apply to you, as your contribution to the city is covered via the tourist tax you pay directly to your hotel (one of the many reasons we recommend opting for an overnight stay rather than a Venice day trip when possible!).

kate storm and ranger storm in a traghetto gondola during summer in venice italy

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

15 thoughts on “How to Take a Fun Florence to Venice Day Trip (No Tour Necessary!)”

How are you doing?

First at all I’d like to say Thank you so much for your tips about Florence and Venice. We are a couple in our mid-sixties and we enjoy traveling a lot. I have read so many tips, but yours were the best I’ve seen so far. Regards, Carmen

Thank you so much, Carmen, that’s wonderful to hear! 🙂

Hope you guys love both Florence and Venice–both cities have so much to offer.

Hi Kate! Thanks for sharing- going to be visiting Venice from Florence for a day trip soon. Do you think we would be ok booking the last train out going back to Florence (6:30pm), or do you think it would be safer booking the second to last train (5:30pm) to make sure we get back to Florence? Just want to make sure we leave room for error, but also would like to use that extra hour to explore if it’s safe to take the last train of the evening 🙂

If it were me, I’d book the 6:30 and enjoy the extra time in Venice. 🙂 Just be sure to leave yourself plenty of extra time to get back to the train station!

Interesting article, exactly what I needed to hear! I’m planning a Spring trip with our home base in Florence but was trying to decide on day trip, or overnight, in Venice. I’d love to get to Murano, you think it’s just too much? We’ve been to Venice before and seen many of the touristy sites. We thought perhaps we could do early walking in Venice then trip out to Murano, but I was unsure of train times and how early we’d have to leave to get back to Florence.

One thing to keep in mind is that it seems like Venice is probably going to start requiring entry fees and advance reservations for day trippers in 2023. That plan has been postponed many times, and I still can’t find any online booking systems or portals online where the system has been put into action, but odds seem pretty high that the system will finally be implemented next year.

I’ll update this post as soon as I can find anything officially confirmed on that (the city has voted to approve the plan, though).

That aside, if you’re not interested in any main sites and are essentially planning to use central Venice as a launching pad to get to Murano, you technically could do that on a day trip, but you’ll end up spending a good portion of your day eaten up in some form of transportation or another. If Murano is a priority, I’d definitely recommend trying to overnight if you can.

You could always spend the night on Murano itself, as well, instead of coming back and forth to Venice. 🙂

I am trying to see Venice as a day trip. I am flying in and out of Rome but I am considering staying 2 nights in Florence to do the Venice trip. Does it save alot of time doing the day trip from Florence vs Rome with the changing of hotels, trains etc. I will have to return to Rome to fly out and orginally was planning a Florence day trip with Rome as my base.

Hi Allison,

The absolute fastest train rides (the only reasonable transportation option) from Rome to Venice are 3.5 hours each way versus 2 hours each way from Florence to Venice, so yes, it makes a big difference!

Without knowing how long you’re going to be in Italy it’s hard to know what to advise, but based on what you’ve written, I suspect it might be better to save Venice for a later trip and stick with Rome, Florence, and possibly another day trip closer to Rome.

Essentially, Venice isn’t a good day trip from Rome, but I also wouldn’t recommend going to stay in Florence purely to use your one full day there to take a day trip to Venice, if that makes sense.

I have followed your day trip itinerary entirely in italy. Day trip to florence, rome and venice and ai cant thank you enough. They made absolute sense, saved time and most importantly the hassle of planning. Thank you once again. Thanks to your tips Italy was my best trip on my europe tour of more than 5 countries. God bless.

Thank you so much, that is fantastic to hear! So glad you had a great time in Italy.

Hello Kate – you have a great website with great advise!!! I’m landing in Rome around 12:30 PM on a Sunday 17 September and have until Saturday (6 days later) afternoon to board a cruise ship in Civitavecchia near Rome. My original thought was to stay a few days in both Rome and Florence (while in Florence ‘possibly’ a day trip to Venice). It makes more sense to end my trip staying in Rome (to be closer to the cruise ship) and thus start my trip in Florence. However, after a long overnight flight from New York (with 1 stop) to Fiumicino Airport (Rome), getting to Florence would be exhausting considering the long train ride from the airport and arrival into Florence around 5:00 PM. Any other suggestions?

Thanks, Mike!

In your situation, it really comes down to personal preference, your tolerance for jet lag, and what time your cruise leaves.

If you have an evening cruise departure scheduled, you can get from Florence to Civitavecchia in 4-5 hours via train (you’ll need to transfer in Pisa), and save the longer travel day for the end of your trip that way (though of course, be sure to leave plenty of extra transit time).

Personally, if it were our trip and our flight landed in Rome in the morning, we’d tough it out and head to Florence first (all the better to fight jetlag with, anyway). If our flight landed in Rome in the evening, we’d likely get a one-night hotel near Roma Termini train station, enjoy dinner and a stroll in Centro Storico, and then head to Florence bright and early the next morning.

If you’d rather slow down and are more excited about the area around Rome than Florence, you could also easily just base yourself in Rome the whole time, and plan a day trip to Florence from Rome. Not the right solution for everyone, but it does solve the problem of so many transitions in less than a week, and Rome and its surrounding area could captivate anyone for months!

Thanks Kate for the fast reply. I’m going to book the first 3 nights in Florence and ‘tough it out on day 1’ (your nicely chosen words) and then take the express train to Rome from Florence and stay the last 3 nights in Rome (girlfriend too nervous to travel all the way from Florence to Civitavecchia on the day the cruise ship leaves).

I did consider a day trip to Florence from Rome as well.

I will carefully plot out the 3 days in Rome since the main sites are spread out while Florence will be a bit more relaxing and less running around. I know she would also like to see Venice — perhaps I can do the main things in Florence all day Monday and take a day trip from Florence to Venice on Tuesday – about 2 hours each way on the train, correct?

Thanks again!

Hi, I’m going to be staying in Rome from February 23rd-26th and then Florence from the 26th-March 2nd. This will be my first time visiting Italy. I would love to go on a day trip to Venice but I’m already going on two day trips from Florence. One is to the wineries and one is to Pisa. Do you think I will have enough time to fit in a day trip to Venice ?

Hi Stephanie,

With only 4 full days in Florence, I wouldn’t recommend planning 3 day trips. However, depending on how much you want to see each place, you could visit Venice instead of Pisa for a day.

If you sign up for a group tour, you might even be able to combine a day trip to visit wineries and other Tuscan towns (possibly featuring Pisa) into one day trip to save yourself time. 🙂

Florence to Venice – A Fascinating Day Trip in Italy (With Travel Tips and Sights to See)

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 5th September 2022

Categories Day Trips in Italy , Tuscany , Veneto , Venice

A day trip from Florence to Venice in Italy is entirely possible and very enjoyable.

Plus, it gives you a chance to explore two of the most famous renaissance city-states in the span of the same italian holiday..

For its location in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon, Venice is universally known as the world’s most unique and beautiful city. Venice is also rich in important historic and artistic sights, it is a hub of artisan crafts and a stage for large-scale worldwide known events. In a nutshell, the city of water offers a great number of things to see, do, and enjoy. Several of them can be covered in a day.

The Grand Canal with a fire engine boat seen from the Accademia Bridge - Venice, Italy - rossiwrites.com

With a travel time starting from just over 2 hours one way and with high-speed trains and modern motorways connecting Florence and Venice , this is a day trip in Italy that requires a bit of organisation and sticking to strict departure times. Yet, with a bit of forward planning, it’s entirely possible, so don’t miss the chance to take it!

To make it easy for you, in this blog post, I have collated all the details to make planning a day trip from Florence to Venice a success. From first-hand tried and tested information on how to travel between these two Italian cities to a shortlist of the major sights to see in Venice in a day, everything’s covered.

Now, I would like to share my tips with you to help you have a great experience, too. Logically organised in easy chunks, below you will find the information that you need to enjoy Venice on a great day trip from Florence in Italy.

Have a look!

Florence to venice – a fascinating day trip in italy (with travel tips and sights to see), where is venice, italy.

Ca Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art on Grand Canal in Venice - Veneto, Italy - rossiwrites.com

Venice is the capital of the Northern Italian region of the Veneto . Famously, the historic centre of the city is built on 118 small islands grouped together in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon. A long car and railway bridge connects Venice to the mainland.

Florence itself is the capital of the Central Italian region of Tuscany. The distance between Florence and Venice is around 260 km.

Venice is connected to Florence by road and railway. Travel between them is straightforward and with a bit of planning, it doesn’t have to cost the earth.

The train station of the historic centre of Venice is called Venezia Santa Lucia. It is an end of the line station and among the 14 largest and busiest train stations in Italy. On average, it serves 450 high-speed and regional trains a day and deals with 30 million passengers a year.

Besides Florence, Venice is easy to reach from a number of large Italian cities. For example, Bologna , Verona , Milan , Turin, and Naples in addition to the Italian capital Rome. Venice also enjoys excellent railway connections to several important European cities in Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and France.

Geographically speaking, Venice has two parts:

The historic centre of Venice – built on 118 islands in the Venetian Lagoon and surrounded by water on all sides. This was the capital of the Republic of Venice and nowadays is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world. If you want to explore the beauty and heritage of Venice on a day trip from Florence, you need to travel to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station which serves the historic centre of Venice.
The mainland area of Venice – known as Venezia Mestre or simply Mestre, this is the large borough on the mainland. The trains from Florence to Venice first stop at the Venezia Mestre train station before heading across the water to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station in the historic centre of the city. First-time visitors at times get confused and get off the train at Venezia Mestre. Unless you have a specific interest in Mestre, you need to stay on the train until the end of the line at Venezia Santa Lucia.

Why Visit Venice from Florence?

Grand Canal seen from the balcony of Ca d'Oro - Venice, Veneto, Italy - www.rossiwrites.com

If you are spending a few days in Florence and have already visited the many beautiful historic towns and cities nearby (for example, Sienna, San Gimignano, Volterra, and Bologna ), you may want to also take a day trip to Venice.

Venice, after all, is always a good idea! The city of water doesn’t really need any introduction and it’s famous worldwide for its unique location, multilayered history, priceless works of art, and mesmerising beauty. Once the capital of the mighty Republic of Venice which ruled over the Mediterranean trade for more than 1,000 years, nowadays the historic city of Venice is a must-see for anyone who loves beauty, art, and history.

With a history that spans many centuries, Venice is an important cultural and artistic centre in Northern Italy . For its concentration of unique historic, urban, and artistic landmarks and for its extraordinary natural landscape, Venice and its Lagoon have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

From its main sights – many of which are clustered around the spectacular St. Mark’s Square and Grand Canal – to its hundreds of hidden gems and corners dotted all over the historic centre, Venice is always a delight to discover. With a bit of forward planning and having a clear idea in mind as to what you want to see there in a day, a trip from Florence to Venice can be a cool adventure to leave memories that last a lifetime.

How to Travel from Florence to Venice?

The Grand Canal seen from Rialto Bridge - Venice, Italy - rossiwrites.com

There are two main convenient ways to travel from Florence to Venice for a day trip. Here they are in further details:

Florence to Venice by Train – train times are very manageable if you take the direct high-speed trains. Taking the much cheaper regional trains will increase the journey by several hours and will make a day trip from Florence to Venice unfeasible. The regional trains can be a great and inexpensive travel option if you are planning to spend more than one day in Venice though.

Here is how it works:

High-speed trains ( Frecciarossa and ItaloTreno ):

On average they take about 2 h 14 mins from Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station to Venezia Santa Lucia train station.
They are very swish and travel really fast .
However, this type of trains cost more and the tickets for them get more expensive the closer to the date of travel you buy them.
The earlier you buy your tickets , the less you will pay. Plan ahead and keep an eye on the TrenItalia and ItaloTreno websites for the best pricing.
If you only have a day to spend in Venice and you want to minimise your travel time, maximise your sightseeing time , and can buy your tickets well in advance, then definitely get the direct high-speed train from Florence to Venice.

High-speed trains + Fast regional trains ( Frecciarossa + Regionale Veloce ):

Alternatively, you can take the Frecciarossa high-speed train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station to Bologna Centrale train station. Once there, you can take a Regionale Veloce train to Venezia Santa Lucia train station. This option is cheaper however the travel time will increase by just under an hour.
As you will be using a high-speed train for a portion of your journey, again, it is advised to buy your tickets well in advance in order to take advantage of the cheaper advance prices.
Bear in mind that tickets for the Regionale Veloce trains traditionally need to be validated before boarding the train. Basically, you need to place your ticket in the slot of one of the validating machines. You will find them affixed to the walls and pillars of the train station. The machine will make a whirring noise and print a code on your ticket. If you don’t do it, your ticket is not valid and fines are large.

Train Stations:

The main train station in Florence is called Firenze Santa Maria Novella . This is one of the busiest and most important railway stations in Italy. High-speed and regional trains connect it to many cities and towns all across the country. With locals travelling for work and millions of tourists visiting Florence each year, you will find Firenze Santa Maria Novella a hub buzzing with activity all throughout the day. To avoid stress, make sure that you allow plenty of time to buy tickets (if you haven’t bought them online or on-site in advance), to find the respective platform, and board the train.

Depending on where you are staying in Florence, there are two more stations that you may need to use:

Firenze Campo di Marte – a train station in the south of Florence.
Firenze Rifredi – a train station in the north of Florence.

You can use these train stations either to travel to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, to Bologna Centrale or to take a combination of Intercity, regional, and fast regional trains all the way to Venice (which can be an inexpensive way to travel if the length of travel time is not an issue).

As mentioned above, there are two train stations in Venice, too. Both of them are on the same train line:

Venezia Santa Lucia train station – if you want to visit Venice proper, i.e. the historic centre of Venice on the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, this is the train station you need to travel to. The travel times given above apply to the journeys from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to this train station.
Venezia Mestre train station – if you have a specific interest in Mestre – the mainland administrative borough of Venice, you need to travel to this station. It precedes the Venezia Santa Lucia train station and travel times from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to it will be on average 10-12 mins shorter.

Buying Tickets Online:

To check travel times from Florence to Venice by train and to buy train tickets in advance, you can use one of these two websites:

TrenItalia – for Frecciarossa high-speed trains and regional trains;
ItaloTreno – for ItaloTreno high-speed trains only.

Both are easy to navigate and have an English user interface. The only thing to remember is that on the TrenItalia website you need to use the Italian names of the train stations (as given above) when you are doing a search for tickets.

Florence to Venice by Car – if you prefer, you can travel from Florence to Venice by car. The journey by toll roads can take anything from 2 h 40 mins to almost four hours depending on the itinerary you follow and how heavy the traffic is. Using GPS navigation is indispensable as traffic jams occur and it can help you avoid them as much as possible. Be prepared for a more of an assertive type of driving and drivers that seem to be on the offensive.

In principle, travelling by toll road is the quickest way to get around in Italy. From Florence to Venice, there are four motorways to travel on one after the other: Autostrada del Sole – A1, Autostrada Adriatica – A13 (for a matter of minutes), Autostrada Bologna-Padova – A14, and Autostrada Serenissima – A4 (again for a matter of minutes).

This website lays out the whole itinerary in minute detail. And this website will give you an estimate of how much the tolls are going to cost.

As you know, Venice is a car-free city. You can park on the island of Tronchetto which is like one huge car park. Just follow the signs after crossing over from the mainland on the long Liberty Bridge. It’s easy and your GPS app will be able to point you in the right direction. Once at Tronchetto, you can get the people mover to Piazzale Roma and start exploring from there.

Another option is to park at one of the car parks at Piazzale Roma and either walk from there or take the vaporetto (Venice’s water bus) from there down the Grand Canal.

If you do a search online, you will find several different car park operators in Tronchetto and Piazzale Roma. Then you can choose the most convenient one for you.

What to see in Venice on a Day Trip from Florence?

Scala Contarini del Bovolo - Venice, Italy - rossiwrites.com

One day is never enough for Venice but it’s better than none. There are many things to do, see, and fall in love with in Venice, Italy. If you have a plan in mind and/or are prepared to be walking around all day in search of hidden gems, you can certainly cover a lot of ground here from morning till dusk.

Just make sure that you wear your most comfortable shoes and clothes. In summer, bring a water bottle with you (you can refill it from the free water fountains around town). Above all, don’t be afraid of getting lost once or twice (it’s part of the experience of being in Venice).

A great introduction to the beauty of Venice is to simply take vaporetto number 1 either from Piazzale Roma or from Venezia Santa Lucia train station down the Grand Canal. This way, you will be able to see numerous splendid palaces, historic churches and Rialto Bridge before arriving in style at St. Mark’s Square where many of the city’s major sights are grouped around.

Here is a shortlist to get you started planning your day trip from Florence to Venice:

Grand Canal – take vaporetto number 1 all the way to St. Mark’s Square. The journey down the Grand Canal is a fabulous introduction to the beauty of Venice. Along the way you will see such stunning buildings and structures as Ca’ Pesaro , Ca’ d’Oro , Rialto Bridge, Ca’ Rezzonico , Accademia Bridge, Gallerie dell’Accademia , and Basilica Santa Maria della Salute . The vaporetto (this is what water buses are called in Venice) will take you all the way down to the large expanse of water known as St. Mark’s Basin with St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace on one side and the islet of San Giorgio Maggiore on the other.
Doge’s Palace – a visit to this splendid pink and white Gothic building will give you an excellent idea about the Republic of Venice as a political and commercial titan during its heyday. You will also gain an understanding of the Republic’s unique governmental structure and will see some truly stunning monumental pieces of art.
St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s Campanile – Venice’s most iconic church that is covered with gold mosaics inside. Its belltower is almost 100 m tall and it’s diagonally across from the basilica’s facade. Make sure that you take the lift to its top to enjoy breathtaking views over the city of water.
Rialto Bridge and Rialto Markets – one of Venice’s most famous sights, the elegant stone arch of Rialto Bridge straddles the Grand Canal at its narrowest point. Right next to it you can explore the Rialto markets offering an abundance of fresh produce and fresh fish.
Museums, churches, and sights – two of the most famous museums here are Gallerie dell’Accademia and Peggy Guggenheim’s Collection . In addition, there is a whole host of museums, churches, and sights here to satisfy every type of interest in history and art. Here are some suggestions: Fondazione Querini Stampalia , Ca’ Pesaro , Ca’ Rezzonico , Teatro La Fenice , Scuola Grande San Rocco , Basilica dei Frari , and Scala Contarini del Bovolo (pictured above).
Cicchetti – take every opportunity to enjoy Venice’s own finger foods that are traditionally washed down with a glass of wine (called ombra by the Venetians);
Historical Events – if you are in Venice at the right time, enjoy a splendid event. Carnevale , Venice Historical Regatta , the Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics , and the annual Befana race are particularly famous.
Private Tours with a Truly Venetian Local Guide – for private tours of Venice, I always recommend Luisella Romeo from See Venice and Erika Cornali from When in Venice . They can help you experience Venice authentically and tailor a tour to your specifications.

There are many more beautiful sights and unique locations to visit in Venice, Italy on a day trip from Florence. If you are after some hidden corners and little-known gems, make sure that you read this exhaustive article:

Hidden Gems in Venice – 101 Things to Do in Venice, Italy Off the Beaten Track

It covers in extensive detail the many curious, weird, and whimsical things that make Venice such a unique city and a must-see destination when you are in Italy.

What Is Your Personal Experience of Travelling to Florence and Venice in Italy?

Basilica di San Marco - Venice, Italy - rossiwrites.com

I spent six years living in Vicenza – an elegant historic city about 45 mins up the road from Venice in Italy. As such, I took every opportunity to travel to both Venice and Florence to explore their art, history, culture, unique events, delicious food, and lovely city settings. In addition, before moving to Italy, I had travelled numerous times from England to both cities for city breaks and long weekends.

Travelling by train and by car around the Veneto and Tuscany is easy and toll roads are not that expensive. The motorways are modern and in general very well maintained. Many trains connect Florence and Venice all throughout the day.

The high-speed trains, in general, are very clean, new, and well-maintained. They feel very swish. While they can get quite busy in the mornings and in the late afternoons with business people commuting between Venice, Florence, and the towns and cities between the two, the journey is very comfortable.

If you prefer to travel by fast regional train from Venice to Bologna and then take the high-speed train from Bologna to Florence, this is manageable, too. I did it once and although I am always for the shortest travel times possible, the price was more palatable and made me overlook the extra hour of travel.

Venice has so much to offer that a day here quickly flies away. Delving into the city’s history and art is very satisfying for you always end up discovering new things. Even if you are here just for a day, you can explore places of great historic, architectural, and artistic importance. Plus, the city as a whole is very beautiful and turning every corner, crossing every bridge, walking along every canal reveals more beauty to truly fall in love with.

Yes, crowds besiege the most popular sights. In summer the sun can be very, very hot. Yet, Venice – the real, authentic one – is easy to discover even on a day trip. The city of water has a way to get under your skin, to make you really fall for it.

I full-heartedly recommend taking a day trip from Florence to Venice to anyone spending a few days in Florence and wanting to see Italy’s other worldwide famous Renaissance city with their own eyes.

A small disclaimer is due here: All the information contained in this blog post is up to date at the date of publishing it. This is not professional, exclusive advice. Just personal experiences and suggestions shared without any obligation to you and any expectations from you.

In Conclusion

Basilica della Salute - Venice, Italy - rossiwrites.com

Taking a day trip from Florence to Venice is a great way to make your Italian holiday even more exciting.

These are two of the most famous cities in Italy and the world. While Florence and Venice are not close geographically, thanks to high-speed trains and modern motorways, they are a manageable distance away from one another.

Hence visiting Venice from Florence can be very straightforward. Venice – universally recognised as the world’s most beautiful city – has many splendid sights and museums. Several of them can be covered in one (hectic!) day.

In the above blog post, I give you detailed information on how to make such a day trip. From how to get from Florence to Venice as swiftly as possible to a shortlist of what to do and see in Venice in one day, all the bases are covered.

I hope that the information provided will galvanise you to put Venice at the top of your travel wish list and that you will visit this exciting Italian city on a day trip from Florence (or even stay longer) as soon as this is possible.

Enjoy your day trip to Venice, Italy!

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Rome (3 nights), Florence (3), Venice (2)

A perfect itinerary for your first time in Italy! We've taken care of selecting wonderful 4* hotels, transfers and 1st class train tickets between cities. All you have to do is enjoy yourself as you visit the must-sees of each city on our hand-selected day tours, and have some free time to explore on your own with this independent tour of Italy.

3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Rome
3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Florence
2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Venice
Private arrival and departure airport transfers
Private transfers to/from train station in each city as per itinerary
1st class train tickets: Rome-Florence and Florence-Venice
Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour
Best of Florence with Accademia Gallery Tour
Venice Walk with Spritz and Gondola Ride
Breakfast daily at hotel
Flights to/from your home city
Meals where not mentioned
Travel Insurance (recommended)

Arrival in Rome
Colosseum & Ancient Rome
Rome to Florence
Best of Florence with Accademia Gallery
Florence to Venice
Venice Walk with Spritz & Gondola Ride ***
Depart Venice to USA

Arrive in Rome at Fiumicino Airport. Your private driver will bring you to your Rome hotel. Rest up and grab some food. Tomorrow begins your exploration of Italy!

Explore the most important sites of Ancient Rome - the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with skip the line access.

The afternoon and evening are at leisure. Want to see more of Rome? Check out our other Day Tours in Rome and feel free to add them to your itinerary. We suggest seeing the incredible Borghese Gallery & Gardens (not included in the package price).

Enjoy the free day to explore Rome as you wish! We suggest either the Vatican Museums Tour with No Wait Access or a Pasta Making Class (not included in the package price) . Feel free to add any of our Rome Day Tours to your itinerary.

You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Rome Train Station for your train ride to Florence. Once you've arrived in Florence, you will be met at train station and taken to your hotel.

Enjoy the free day to explore Florence as you wish!

Discover Florence's historic center on this walking tour including the Ponte Vecchio, the imposing Duomo (only from outside), elegant Uffizi Square, the renowned leather market, and the Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo’s David. Please note that a full explanation of the Duomo's inside and outside features will be given by the guide. The entrance to the Duomo is free and you can visit independently if you wish. Please note that on Sundays and during religious festivities, visits inside the Duomo may be restricted.

The afternoon and evening are at leisure. Want to see more of Florence? Check out our other Day Tours in Florence and feel free to add them to your itinerary. We suggest seeing the incredible Uffizi Gallery (not included in the package price).

Enjoy the free day to explore Florence as you wish. Or feel free to add any of our Florence Day Tours to your itinerary.

You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Florence Train Station for your train ride to Venice. Once you've arrived in Venice, you will be met at the train station and taken to your hotel by a motor boat.

Enjoy your free day in Venice!

Join a small group on a fun and informative tour of Venice. This guided walk is a perfect introduction to Venice’s art, history, and traditions. Plus, enjoy a shared gondola ride to see Venice from the water!

The afternoon and evening are at leisure. Want to see more of Venice? Check out our other Day Tours in Venice and feel free to add them to your itinerary. We suggest seeing the incredible St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace (not included in the package price) .

***This group tour is not available in November and December. As alternative we can offer a private walking tour of Venice including the Doge's Palace.

Your Italy Vacation has come to an end as you transfer from your hotel to Venice Airport and head back home.

The Marcella Royal Hotel is a first class boutique hotel conveniently situated in the center of Rome. 10 minutes from Via Veneto, in an affluent and well-to-do district, within walking distance of the city’s numerous sights and attractions, including Via Veneto, the Spanish Steps, Via Nazionale, Barberini and many more. The 4 star hotel provides all the creature comforts and amenities that you require for a most relaxing and unforgettable stay in the Eternal City. Carefully decorated and furnished throughout, including all the guest rooms and communal areas, ourthe hotel is like an oasis of tranquility, right in the heart of the hustle and bustle of Rome.

If you are searching for luxury accommodation in Florence city center, then the exclusive Rivoli Boutique Hotel will most certainly fulfill all expectations. Situated in the heart of Florence, this 15th century former Franciscan convent has been tastefully refurbished to provide comfortable, elegant accommodation whilst retaining the hotel's delightful periodic character and charm - from the lobby, with its unique opulent archways and pillars, classic ceilings and cross vaults to our lavishly frescoed lounges.

Palazzo San Lorenzo is a new, four-star superior hotel with an elegant design mix of classical and contemporary. It offers 26 luxurious rooms and junior suites that have been carefully designed in every detail and equipped with every comfort in order to make your stay in Venice an unforgettable experience. Located directly along one of Venice’s more characteristic canals in the heart of the historical city center, Palazzo San Lorenzo is distinguished by the curved Istrian-stone window sills and the bas relief of the hotel’s namesake.

City: Rome Duration: 3 hours, 9:15am - 12:15pm

A great introduction to the artistic treasures of the Vatican in an enjoyable and hassle-free manner. From the enormous Vatican Museums to Michelangelo's ground-breaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, you will see how the Popes used art and culture to spread their message.

Discover the history, the mystery and the masterpieces of Vatican City, a powerful town-state set in the center of Rome and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where the brilliance of human creativity and devotion converge.

As there is no talking allowed in the Sistine Chapel your guide will prepare you here for the many fascinating details you otherwise might miss on your own. To reach the Chapel, your guide will lead you along the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra and through the Raphael Rooms. These works of art will come to life as you follow your guide’s commentary on your dedicated headsets. At the Sistine Chapel, take some time to pick out the rich details on the walls and ceilings – from Michelangelo’s boneless self-portrait to the shields representing violent bible stories.

Then, you will enter St. Peter’s Basilica and your guide will provide an overview of this magnificent church. Here, you will see Michelangelo’s ‘Pietá’ which portrayed Mary as being as an eternal young mother. Spend some quiet time in this vast place of worship beneath the tallest dome in the world. When you finish, you are free to remain inside St. Peter’s Basilica to experience more of this amazing church at your leisure or return outside to St. Peter’s Square to admire Bernini’s clever optical illusion and the basilica’s heavenly façade.

On Wednesdays, access to St. Peter’s Basilica & Square may be closed at the time of the morning tour due to the Papal Audience.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

City: Florence Duration: 3 hours, 3pm - 6pm OR 6:30pm - 9:30pm

Learn how to make authentic, Italian Pizza and Gelato – a fun cooking class for kids too!

Under the guidance of a professional pizza chef, called a Pizzaiolo, you will make your own pizza - stretch it, sauce it, bake it, slice it. The chef will teach you the key techniques in making a soft and flexible dough and the trick for a flavorful yet light tomato sauce so you can make this pizza at home!

After pizza it’s time for Gelato. The chef will explain why the gelato is the Italy's favorite dessert and will give insight to the 'gelato culture' that continues to grow. Learn the basic raw ingredients, how to select the best products available according to specific principles, development and application of natural colors, the heating and freezing techniques and how they have different effects on the ingredients.

Then enjoy a presentation and tasting of some of the flavors used in gelato making!

This activity is strongly recommended for families that wish to have children to learn about the Italian culture, an easy and fun experience that will last forever in their memory.

City: Florence Duration: 3 hours, 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Discover one of Italy's most important museums, the Uffizi Gallery, under the guidance of an art expert, skipping the long lines!

Enjoy a guided tour of the main rooms of the Uffizi Gallery and follow the evolution of Italian art through the centuries, from the Middle Ages to Renaissance. Learn about Giotto’s revolutionary art, admire the beauty of Botticelli’s Primavera and the sensuality of his Venere, surprise yourself with Leonardo’s mix of rational genius and artistic creativity, and view the main masterpieces by many other unparalleled artists.

City: Florence Duration: 8 hours, 2pm - 10pm

Starting from Florence, you will be taken to Siena by an English speaking driver. In Siena, enjoy a guided walking tour of this compact city as you explore Piazza del Campo, the main central square where the famous Palio horse race takes place every year, as well as the quieter backstreets and learning everything about the Contrade, the 17 medieval city districts that compete against each other in the Palio.

Then continue to San Gimignano, famed for its medieval skyscrapers, high walls and narrow streets that typify most people image of a Tuscan hill town. San Gimignano is unique in the preservation of about a dozen of its tower houses, which with its hilltop setting and encircling walls, form its famed and unforgettable skyline. You will have free time to explore this city as you wish.

Finally, savor a typical Tuscan dinner paired with wines in a fascinating location in the Chianti countryside. Then return to Florence.

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10-day itinerary for Italy: An affordable trip to Rome, Florence and Venice

Jan 22, 2019

Rebecca Holland

21 comments

When planning a vacation in Italy , it’s tempting to want to see and do it all. It’s very easy to over schedule your trip, especially on a tight time frame like a 10-day visit.

To really get into la dolce vita , it’s better to limit yourself to a few cities or towns and take your time in each one. Delays and unforeseen events (along with these common tourists mistakes) can derail even the best-planned schedules and cause stress, which is the opposite of what your vacation should be about.

If you’re planning to be in Italy for 10 days and want to see the best cities the country has to offer, while also leaving time to enjoy spontaneous events and relax, follow this itinerary. This schedule takes you through the greatest hits of Rome , Florence , and Venice for an unforgettable and affordable vacation.

In another post, we offer tips for exploring Italy by car , including small villages and towns. However, for this trip, we’re hitting up the country’s big three cities, so we’ll travel by high-speed train.

Related: 11 Simple ways to save on your trip to Italy

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

Fly into Rome, take the train in from the airport and spend the afternoon and evening relaxing.

Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood of your hotel (we recommend staying at one of these budget hotels with central locations ), and indulge in your first Italian meal. Roman food is unique to the rest of Italy, so ask your concierge or host for their recommendations on the best amatriciana or cacio e pepe in the neighborhood. If you find yourself near the Spanish Steps , you can try one of these restaurants .

Affordable hotels in Rome: • Rome Hotels: 8 Charmers near the historic center under €100 • All budget hotels in Rome

The Duomo is the heart of Florence and must-see for your first day. Photo: Dennis Jarvis

Days 2 & 3: Explore Florence

You’ll see everything Rome has to offer soon, but today we’ll take a train to Florence, about two hours away from Rome’s Termini train station . Book these tickets well in advance for the lowest prices (from €17!) directly from Trenitalia, the national railway . (By the way, don’t be confused if you type “Florence” into the search and nothing comes up. You need to search for “Roma” to “Firenze.”)

Florence , the heart of Tuscany, is also one of the most beautiful and culturally important cities in the country. Arrive in the early afternoon and, after checking into your hotel , spend the rest of the day wandering around the famed Basilica (the “Duomo”) and climbing to the top. They even offer free Duomo tours . You’ll be hungry after the walk, and when in Florence, make sure to eat a panini or the famous dish, Bistecca alla Fiorentina ! (Read more posts about eating for cheap in Florence .)

The next day is for sightseeing (Read: 5 ways to save on sightseeing in Florence ). After a tasty breakfast , spend the day exploring Florence, whether you want to visit Michelangelo’s David sculpture in the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze , pore over art in the Uffizi Gallery , or shop for handmade leather goods and souvenirs .

Cheap hotels in Florence: • All budget hotels in central Florence • 5 Super cheap hotels in Florence with great locations

It’s hard not to fall in love with the Grand Canal in Venice. Photo: Gerhard G.

Day 4 & 5: Strolling in Venice

Head to Venice by train from Florence, a ride that takes approximately two hours. Again, book those tickets in advance through Trenitalia (and search for “Venezia”).

Once in Venice, you can immerse yourself in the romance of the canals and beauty of handmade blown glass . Venice is known for its seafood, so take advantage and feast on octopus and calamari. Unfortunately, Venice is also known for overpriced, tourist trap restaurants, so ask a local for recommendations or try one of these three Venetian trattorias that locals like . (Read more of our posts about food in Venice .)

When choosing a hotel in Venice , we like to go close, but not too close, to St. Mark’s Square . The Castello neighborhood is a nice option, with several affordable options that are tucked away and quiet-ish, but still super-convenient. Want a canal view? Consider these budget hotel picks . Want more options? Here’s a list of our favorite hotels in Venice and 5 cheap and charming hotels that we love .

On your second day in Venice , start your day at a delicious Venetian bakery , and then get ready for an unforgettable walk. From the Piazza San Marco (where every building turns a lovely shade of pink during sunset), to Doge’s Palace and Saint Mark’s brilliant Basilica, there’s plenty to do.

From our Venice sightseeing guide : visit these 10 sights for under €10 , check out these lesser-known museums , hit up these 5 free sights , or take a walk through the Jewish ghetto .

Of course, one of the best things to do in Venice is sip a glass of wine while watching the gondolas glide by. You can also hop on a ferry , if a gondola ride is too expensive for your tastes. (It is for ours!)

Hotel picks for Venice: • The top 7 budget hotels in Venice • All budget hotels in Venice

Days 6 – 8: A Roman Holiday

Today, you’ll head back to Rome by train, passing through hill country and several castles along the way. It’s only three hours on the high-speed train from Venice, but the trip takes much longer on a regional train. (If booked in advance, the fast train will probably be about the same price as the slow one!)

When choosing a hotel in Rome, check out this list of our favorite budget hotels like Papa Germano . This includes several that are near the train station , as well as those in extremely convenient locations near the Pantheon and Piazza Navona and Spanish Steps . (See all recommended hotels in Rome .)

Once checked in, take a night stroll through the city. The piazzas are bustling until late in the evening, and the city sparkles at night. If you have time, visit the Trevi Fountain by moonlight.

Related: • 25 Free things to see and do in Rome • 10 Easy ways to save on your next trip to Rome

Plan what you want to see in Rome, and split it up over the next few days . A tour of the Vatican will take about half a day, as will a tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum .

Related: • 10 Tips for visiting St. Peter’s Basilica & the Vatican Museums • Rome’s 4 commonly overlooked treasures

But give yourself at least one day to explore Rome away from the big sights. Explore outdoor markets , shop for Italian fashion , relax in one of Rome’s many gardens and parks , and just wander along the city’s cobblestone side streets!

Don’t forget to eat lots of gelato and drink house wine ! Seriously, the house wine is much cheaper and just as good as most of the bottled stuff. It’s local! And keep an eye out for these 5 iconic and affordable Roman dishes . (Read more about eating and drinking in Rome .)

The beautiful waters of Anzio, Italy are just a quick and cheap train ride away from Rome. Photo: Helen Cook

Day 9 – Day trip

If you’re in love with Rome, go ahead and spend another day checking more attractions off of your wish list.

If you’re up for something new, there are several fun day trips easily accessible from Rome. Whether you want to enjoy some sun at nearby beaches , the hillside villages of Castelli Romani , or the ruins of Ostia Antica (one of the best-kept secrets in all of Italy), getting out of the city is worth it to see a different side of Italy before you leave. Most trains depart from Termini Station.

Day 10 – A rrivederci Italy

Have one last cappuccino and cornetto for breakfast and you’re off! Of course, your memories from 10 days in bella Italia will last a lifetime.

Your Italy tips

Have you been to Rome, Florence or Venice? Tell us how you like to save when you are sightseeing (and eating!) during your trip.

About the author

Rebecca Holland has worked as a journalist for print, radio and television, and currently freelances for a number of travel and development publications. Bit by the travel bug after college, she's backpacked through Asia, lived in the Middle East, and now lives and works in Italy, but explores the rest of Europe whenever she can. Read more about her travel adventures at curiosityandacarryon.com , or follow her on twitter at @globalmusings, and Instagram @curiosityandacarryon.

The 7 best budget hotels in Florence for 2023
Italy Budget Travel Guide: 11 simple ways to save (2024 Update)
Florence: 10 Travel tips to help you save
Venice: 5 very cheap sleeps (considering it’s, you know, Venice)

21 thoughts on “10-day itinerary for Italy: An affordable trip to Rome, Florence and Venice”

That’s a great itinerary. But there is so much more to Italy: http://travelingprofessor.com/tours/tours-to-italy

We’re a family of 4 (me, my wife and my parents) from India planning to travel to Eu for fist time over a period of 13 days (all travel inclusive).

1. We’re slightly confused which all places to cover (some people told us to go to Italy and Switzerland, some said Italy, Croatia and some said Italy, Germany and Prague). Would you be able to pls advise us which one would you recommend us & key places within each region. Also, is there a way we can include PRague in our trip (have heard it’s really beautiful) 2. We wanted to include some driving as well (maybe over a period of a few days). I’ve heard that 1 way drop-off charges are too much & that would be a consideration for us. Also, would you suggest car or train travel (my worry is if we’d have 3-4 suitcases, would it be convenient to travel by trains?. I’ve driven by car in new zealand last year and it was really convenient and hence just want to check). 4. Money is also a decently important factor for us & hence we’d like to save wherever we can. Also, would you suggest end April or end May (which one would be a better season from cost & weather perspective)

We would extremely thankful if you could pls help & advise on this. Thanks a lot Abhay

To visit Florence it would take many days, this city is an incredible concentrate of artistic beauties, the old town itself is like an open-air museum.

How much $ to plan for 2Seniors and 2 adults June 2018. Florence, Venice, Rome, Pompei and Nice. 12 days. Flight from Atlanta, Georgia. Would like nice hotels, train prices, etc

Rebecca, a pity that you seemed to have left eurocheapo and started on your own. Since I had based my Italy itinerary based mainly your input ,I am posting herewith my own new blog diytravelexperiences.wordpress.com . Those interested in planning a DIY trip of 2 weeks to Italy may kindly visit my blog. Whilst I have some completed posts a few like “while in Rome….” is under preparation.

@Dhiraj Hazarika, I was trying to find your blog to read and couldn’t. Can you please post it again or email it to me at [email protected] Thank you!

Sorry Angela but I just visited this page after ages. My blog is diytravelexperiences.wordpress.com Hope you benefit from it. Best Dhiraj

I would substitute Tuscany or Cinque Terre for Florence, I didnt care for it all that much.

Perfect Itinerary. I found this helpful to plan my Italy trip.

Thanks for sharing.

Rebecca, in continuation of my earlier post, we added Milan to your itinerary since we had 13 days and had a flight out of there.

Rebecca, my wife and self would like to thank you for helping plan our maiden visit to Italy recently. Since we had 13 days we added Venice to our itinerary.Otherwise we followed most of our suggestions and had a great holiday. Keep up the good work.Next year we will probably do Spain and hope you have suggested itinerary for that country too.

Hi Dhiraj, We’re so glad you enjoyed your trip to Italy. And yes, we do have an itinerary for Spain! http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/spain-itinerary-from-barcelona.html

Happy European travels, Craig

I’m so glad you enjoyed this itinerary and your trip to Italy! I recently started a custom itinerary business if you or your friends are ever interested. https://www.etsy.com/shop/CuriosityandaCarryOn?ref=hdr_shop_menu

Thanks for your kind words! Rebecca

Great itinerary! Way to see the best of Italy. Florence is one of my faves, I could spend weeks there, so much to do. Here’s some things you must do if you are in Florence for a few days that are off the beaten path: http://www.tripchow.com/five-extra-things-must-do-in-florence/

Awesome..:) Thnx for the itenary..:)

Do you have a date beginning 9/26/16 for this tour?

This is just a suggested itinerary that you can use to create your own schedule.

Thanks for your interest, Craig

I really like your suggestions. I plan to go to Italy for ten days in October or November . Should I book my trip now?

Hi Diana, You can probably find some great deals on hotels and airfare right now, but there also might be good sales coming up. It just depends how you like to travel. I like to plan far ahead and have my dates in the calendar locked up so I can start the fun part — researching all the cool things to do, see, and eat!

I stumbled upon your website and really like your suggestions and timing. I am headed to Italy in March. What about a day trip to Pompeii?

I am starting to plan my vacation. I think that your comments and recommendations are perfect. Thank you!

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Florence or Venice: Which Italian City to Visit?

Last Updated on April 13, 2023

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Florence and Venice are two of the most popular cities in Italy. Venice is known for its historic canals and glass-blown artwork while Florence is famous for its architecture, wine region, and food. If you have a finite amount of time to explore Italy, you might find yourself wondering whether to visit Florence or Venice.

Florence might be your choice if you’re an art and history lover, Venice might be the better option if you’re after a romantic escape. However, both cities are fascinating and they have characteristics that make visiting each one a very unique experience.

Keep reading for a list of everything you need to know when deciding whether to visit Venice vs Florence.

Table of Contents

Centrally located in Italy, Florence is the largest city in the Tuscany region. It’s well known for food, history, and culture, making it a favorite destination for tourists. Florence is also the gateway city to exploring the wine regions and natural spaces of Tuscany.

Accessibility

If you’re arriving by train, you’ll come into Florence through the Stazione Santa Maria Novella. There are other train stations in the city, but this one is the biggest and most centrally located, so it’s probably where you’ll hop off to begin your Florence adventure. You can view schedules here.

The Florence airport is about five miles from the city center and can be accessed by taxi, bus, tram, or rental car.

Taxis are available in the city center, but there is no rideshare service like you’d find in other Italian cities. If you have a rental car (you can find one on Rentalcars.com ), you won’t be allowed to drive in the center of Florence. Those streets are reserved for residents only.

Most of the main attractions in Florence are accessible by foot. Anywhere from five to twenty minutes of walking will take you throughout the main neighborhoods. It’s also the best way to stumble upon hidden gems, find quaint cafes, and wander into local artisan shops.

Navigating Florence is usually easy with clearly marked signs and an intuitive layout, however, you should still use a map or GPS to help navigate. Overall, getting around Florence is easy and affordable.

Affordability

The busiest months in Florence are during the summer. You should expect prices across the board to increase from roughly June through August and be more affordable if visiting Florence in winter.

When it comes to lodging and eating in Florence, you can really spend any amount of money.

However, Florence is generally more budget-friendly for travelers than Venice. Many activities are affordable and there is a lot to see just walking around the city, which is entirely free. If you opt for a high-end visit to Tuscany or private tours, expect to pay more for your stay in Florence.

It’s also worth noting that Florence has more variety in terms of what kind of experience you can have. For example, you have more flexibility to splurge in one area and save in another. You will probably visit nicer restaurants and stay in nicer accommodations in Florence for a lesser price than Venice.

Florence is also a larger city, which grants its visitors more options when they’re deciding where to eat. If you wander from the tourist-oriented city center, you will find cheaper lodging and dining.

Things To Do In Florence

One of the biggest differences between Venice and Florence is the sheer number of things to do. You could easily spend several days in Florence , exploring the city and Tuscany, and have plenty to see and do. It’s very worth your time to spend at least two days getting to know Florence with another day spent venturing into the region.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is by far the most stunning of attractions in Florence. This impressive cathedral stands out against the skyline and sits in the middle of the city. You can go inside the cathedral, but expect to wait in a long line unless you visit as soon as it opens. You can organise a guided tour here.

Ponte Vecchio is a classic spot to visit while wandering Florence. This medieval bridge is lined with colorful jewelry shops with excellent views of the city and river.

Lovers of art museums will find themselves right at home in Florence. The Uffizi Gallery, housing Renaissance masterpieces throughout the ages, is the most popular. You can buy tickets here.

The Accademia Gallery, where Michelangelo’s David lives ( pre-book tickets here ), and Pitti Palace ( pre-book tickets here ) are two other main museums in Florence, but there are many more. While wandering the city, you can also expect to come across pop-up exhibits for various artists. Florence has a rich history of art, artists, and architecture.

Aside from these, make sure you visit Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, and Piazza del Duomo. There are gardens, vegetable markets, science museums, plazas, and even tombs to explore.

If you have time during your visit to Florence, take a day trip to Pisa , and a tour of Tuscany. Whether you’re a lover of wine or not, this famous wine region of Italy is beautiful with rolling green hills and stunning vineyards.

You can learn about the history of wine and olive oil production in the country. Pisa is just a short train ride away or can be visited on a guided tour.

From the train station in Pisa, walk about twenty minutes to reach the Leaning Tower of Pisa and surrounding museums. These are two iconic destinations that are easily accessible from Florence.

You can also take day trips to cities like Lucca and Siena if you have the time, as well.

Where to Stay in Florence

Hotel Bellavista – This mid-range hotel is a great option for visitors looking for a comfortable and convenient choice in the Tuscan capital. Located close to the train station within easy walking distance of all Florence has to offer, they have a range of different rooms available and an option to include breakfast.

25hours Hotel – This luxury hotel is a great choice for those looking for a plush stay in Florence. They offer a number of rooms perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape. There is also breakfast included in the nightly rate and there is a fitness centre, restaurant and bar on site.

Ostello Bello Firenze – If you’re looking for a great social atmosphere or are travelling on a tight budget, this highly-rated hostel is an excellent option. They have both dorms and private rooms available, good common areas and a fantastic location for exploring the best Florence has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Florence hotels!

Venice is arguably one of the most famous cities in Europe. Known as the “City of Canals”, Venice is filled with beautiful architecture, gondolas, and a fascinating history. It has over 118 islands that make up the city, making it one of the most interesting cities to explore on foot.

Accessibility

The easiest way to reach Venice is by train at the Santa Lucia Train Station. From the train station, you can easily walk to your accommodation.

There is a small airport, Marco Polo Venice Airport, that you’ll have to take a bus or boat from to get into Venice proper. You can book a bus here or a boat here.

Getting around Venice is as unique as the city itself. In short, there are three main ways to get around Venice: buses, walking, and vaporettos.

Walking tops out as the best way to get around Venice. The walk from Santa Lucia to St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is usually 20 – 30 minutes. When exploring Venice by foot, it’s wise to have a map or GPS at your disposal.

The streets are relatively well-marked, but they twist and curve to create a maze-like city. With all the narrow alleys and random dead ends, it’s easy to get lost. That said, Venice is one of the coolest cities to get lost in.

Buses are mainly to reach Venice from the mainland. Once in Venice itself, you won’t see any cars. Instead, most people use vaporettos to get around. These are essentially water buses that go between all the main points of interest throughout Venice.

It connects the six areas of Venice as well as the other island in the Lagoon. Purchasing single-ride tickets can add up very quickly. Instead, consider buying an unlimited multi-day transportation pass.

The other ferry option is the traghetto. This is a lesser-known option, but worth it for the more affordable price point. It helps visitors cross the Grand Canal easily and cheaply, costing around a quarter of the price of a vaporetto ticket.

Water taxis and gondolas are the two most expensive ways to get around the city. Gondolas are mainly tourist attractions, running from €80-100 for half an hour. Water taxis can transport up to ten people, but tend to be spendy and the prices usually jump at night.

Venice is generally more expensive than Florence. Unsurprisingly, Venice sees millions of visitors every year–more so than other parts of Italy. It’s because of this that prices tend to be higher.

Venice is also a much smaller city compared to Florence, so there are fewer options for lodging. This leads property owners to increase the per night cost of a room to sell to the tourists willing to pay the most.

Similar to Florence, restaurants, cafes, shops, and accommodations near St. Mark’s Square will have higher prices than other parts of Venice. However, expect to pay more for nearly everything in Venice than Florence.

Things To Do In Venice

Venice is a historic and elegant city with plenty of sites to see. You’ll probably recognize many of the highlights from their appearances in pop culture.

Start with the Rialto Bridge. This intricately-designed marble footbridge spans the Grand Canal. It’s a great place for a view of the Grand Canal, especially for sunrise or sunset.

St. Mark’s Square is the largest and most popular public square in Venice. It’s surrounded by shops and restaurants while being home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica. You can buy skip-the-line tickets here.

While exploring Venice, you’ll want to make sure to visit Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Signs. The palace boasts the Venetian Gothic style and was historically the palace of the Doge of Venice, a high authority figure in the former Republic of Venice. You can buy tickets here.

It dates back to 1340. The connecting Bridge of Sighs is a white marble bridge built high above the canal between the Doge’s Palace and a prison. The bridge was built to transport prisoners from interrogation rooms in the palace to their cells in the prison.

Those who love the arts will appreciate the beauty of the Teatro La Fenice and enjoy wandering the art collection at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection of modern art.

If you have an afternoon to spend venturing out of the center of Venice, hop on a vaporetto to visit Burano or Murano. These little islands are known for their lace and glass-blown art, respectively.

They are colorful and charming parts of Venice that are well worth a few hours of your time and just a short ride from the main part of Venice.

If you have a few days to spend in Venice, you could also opt to go on a day trip to nearby Verona or go wine tasting in the famous Prosecco region.

Verona is a good day trip option from Venice

Where to Stay in Venice

Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – Situated within reach of the iconic Rialto Bridge, this lovely boutique hotel is perfect for those after the ideal romantic escape in Vence. There are a handful of chic and comfortable rooms available, a bar on site, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Ca’ Angeli – Located in the central San Polo neighborhood, this wonderful hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxe place to stay in Venice. They offer only a handful of beautiful, clean and comfortable rooms and they also have a great breakfast available each morning.

Combo Venezia — This hostel in the cool Cannaregio neighborhood is a great choice for budget and solo travelers to Venice. As one of the city’s highest-rated hostels, they have both private rooms and dorm beds available and great shared spaces and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Venice hotels!

Venice vs Florence: The Verdict

So, should you visit Venice or Florence? The two cities each have their own unique characteristics that make them memorable, however, there are several differences that might make one better than the other for your trip to Italy.

If you want art, history, and other cultural museums, Florence is your place. Here, you’ll generally find more to do, especially if you plan a day trip or two out of the city. Florence also had more options for incredible food due to being a larger city.

Those traveling on a budget should head to Florence as well. Again, because Florence is a larger city with more options for lodging and dining, there will be more flexibility for all budgets.

If you find yourself wanting a city that captures the romance that Italy is famous for, go to Venice. With the canals, music, gondolas, and architecture, you are bound to feel the warm sentiments that come from wandering these picturesque streets.

When it comes to crowds, Venice is almost always packed with tourists. The city receives millions of visitors every year from all over the world. This, coupled with the narrow streets and limited space, quickly makes Venice incredibly dense with tourists.

Florence also sees a lot of visitors, especially during the summer months, but is more spread out, so it won’t feel nearly as crowded as Venice. It’s easier and cheaper to get around Florence, with more options for exploring small towns and regions around the city.

Whether you should visit Florence vs Venice should be based on how much time you have, budget, and the activities you’d like to do. Florence has more to do while Venice is the romantic, picturesque pocket of Italy you’ve seen in movies. No matter which city you choose to visit, it’s certain to be a trip you won’t forget.

Are you trying to decide between visiting Venice or Florence? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

Nice guide ! Only one clarification.. Venice is not so smaller than Florence… The city center of Venice is much larger unlike the Florence ones, where you can walk from the train station to the major square in 10 min. (in Venice you have to walk 30/40 min and there is also the lido, murano and burano islands.). And you have not mentioned the large part of the main land of Venice, wich is the suburban area where a lot of tourists can book cheaper rooms and find other modern museums. Hope my opinion can be usefull for anyone 🙂 Btw, thank you for you amazing work as usual!! 🙂

How to Travel From Venice to Florence by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Venice and Florence are two of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, one for its picturesque canals and the other for its Renaissance art and architecture. The two tourist-centric destinations, separated by about 258 kilometers (160 miles), are connected by a fast and efficient rail service and the famous autostrada , where it's perfectly acceptable to drive at 130 kilometers (80 miles) per hour . It would take about three hours to drive it, but that's not counting the time you'll want to spend in places like Padua , Ferrara , and Bologna along the way. Flying takes about the same amount of time, but it's expensive and there are no direct routes. The two-hour train is a popular transportation option and there's a bus for the budget-conscious, too.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Venice to Florence?

The bus makes it easy to adhere to a budget whilst traveling through the Italian countryside. FlixBus departs several times a day from the Venetian island of Tronchetto (which you may have to ferry to for $9 and 20 minutes of your time). The most direct route takes just over three hours to get to Florence's Piazzale Montelungo, but longer trips can take more than seven hours and require messy transfers. Tickets start around $10. Considering the minimal price difference between taking the bus and the train (a much faster journey)—which can be bridged by that ferry ticket to Tronchetto anyway—most people choose to travel by rail instead.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Venice to Florence?

The high-speed train between Venice's Santa Lucia station and Florence's Firenze Santa Maria Novella station takes a mere two hours (sometimes more, sometimes less), making it even faster than driving (especially when you factor in the train's city center-to-city center service). Between the two available services—Trenitalia Frecce and ItaloTreno—trains depart every hour and a half between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets start at around $20 and can be booked via Rail Europe .

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

Driving can easily wind up being the most expensive transportation option—what with the cost of parking, fuel, and renting a car, if necessary—but it offers the most potential for adventure along the way. The most direct route between Venice and Florence is the autostrada (highways A13 and E35, specifically), which is a 257-kilometer (160-mile) route that takes about three hours of driving time.

How Long Is the Flight?

There are no airlines that fly directly between Venice and Florence , but Italy's flag carrier Alitalia offers frequent flights to and from both destinations, stopping in Rome. The flight to Rome from Venice Marco Polo is about an hour and 10 minutes, then from Rome to Florence is another 55 minutes. The layover at Rome Fiumicino typically lasts about an hour, too, making the entire journey about three hours (as long as it would take to drive). The real downfall is the price: Tickets start around $286. Florence has only one airport and it's about a 15-minute drive from the center.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Florence?

The best time to travel to Florence from Venice is before or after the summer high season, when transportation will be booked up and, therefore, most expensive. April, September, and October tend to be quiet and cheap times to travel while still offering mild weather and tourist-centric activities. Book your train ticket well in advance (up to 60 days) for the lowest price. Otherwise, if you're traveling on short notice, it's recommended to opt for off-peak trains, which Rail Europe says are "more affordable than morning and evening trains along with those running on holiday eves, Friday, and Sunday afternoon."

What’s the Most Scenic Route to Florence?

If you're looking to see some authentic Italian countryside along the route, take Po Valley, the country's agricultural heartland, instead of the autostrada. This route, running between Verona and Parma, is a short detour adding about 150 kilometers (93 miles) and an hour and a half onto the trip. On the upside, though, you won't pass any tolls and you'll be treated to some marvelous natural scenery along the way. If you'd still rather take the autostrada, then be sure to make pit stops in historic Padua, artsy Ferrara, and the culinary haven of Bologna for some Tagliatelle al Ragu.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

The easiest and cheapest way to get to the city center from the Florence Peretola Airport is by tram. The Tramvia line T1 connects the airport to Santa Maria Novella (SMN)—Florence's centerpiece—in about 15 minutes and for about $1.63 per ticket. You can purchase tickets at the station, which is located just outside of baggage claim. Alternatively, you can take the Volainbus , a special bus shuttle that goes to SMN, but it takes slightly longer (around 20 minutes) and costs more ($6.50), too.

What Is There to Do in Florence?

Florence was once one of the wealthiest European cities during medieval times (earning the nickname "the Athens of the Middle Ages") and you can still tell it today just by looking at the richness of its Renaissance-era architecture and monuments. The famous Uffizi Gallery—housing works by Raphael, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli—is a good representation of this, as is every building you'll see as you stroll through the city. Sitting at the heart of Tuscany , Florence is also known for its wine and food. You will find it tough to resist the olives and Chianti on every menu.

Venice and Florence are 258 kilometers (160 miles) apart.

The most direct route is the autostrada (highways A13 and E35, specifically), which will take about three hours.

The high-speed train between Venice's Santa Lucia station and Florence's Firenze Santa Maria Novella station takes two hours. Tickets start at around $20.

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Florence and Venice
Venice Multi Centre Holidays

Book our Florence and Venice multi centre holiday and enjoy eight days of unforgettable sightseeing and lavish food in two of Italy’s greatest cities. Start your holiday in Florence, here you will see glorious Renaissance architecture, such as the Duomo of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore designed by Brunelleschi, and the Basilica of San Lorenzo, one of the oldest churches in the city. Next, it’s off to the floating city of Venice. Just 2.5 hours away by train, soak in the rolling Tuscan countryside, past rows of grapes standing to attention, and pretty, medieval hillside towns and villages telling the story of Italy’s history. Water meets art in Venice, a city made up of 118 islands, with an incredible array of museums and art galleries. Sample the fresh seafood featured on every restaurant menu, or enjoy a piece of chocolate salami with a strong coffee.

At a glance

Take panoramic photographs of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo
Walk over Florence’s oldest bridge, the Ponte Vecchio
Marvel at Michelangelos David in the Galleria dell Accademia
Visit Venices Doges Palace and its smaller museums

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Your plans, our expertise

Suggested Trip Itinerary

View of the Palazzo Pitti and italian style Boboli gardens in Florence, Italy

Once you've checked into your hotel, explore some of the architectural masterpieces of Florence. Start at the Duomo, Florence's famous cathedral. Its dome is the biggest in Italy, and you can climb its 463 steep steps to catch panoramic views across the city. Then, go into the Museo dell' Opera del Duomo, which has over 750 works of art, including Michelangelo's last sculpture, Pietà. Next on your tour is the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's oldest bridge, where you can take in views of the line of higgledy-piggledy shops sitting on top of its arches. In the evening, head to one of the traditional Italian trattorias and order Florence's most famous dish. Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a large T-Bone steak smoked over roasted chestnuts, served pink in the middle.

Alba Palace

Located 800 metres from the Duomo in the centre of Florence
Great value for money

Hotel Balestri

Central riverside location
Boutique hotel with charm and atmosphere

Grand Hotel Minerva

Rooftop terrace and swimming pool, overlooking Florence
Perfect for both families and couples

Beautiful cityscape skyline of Firenze (Florence), Italy, with the bridges over the river Arno

Spend today on the other side of the Arno River where there are fewer tourists. Begin at the Basilica de Santo Spirito. In contrast with Florence's more ornate churches, the Basilica has a plain exterior, giving it a celestial feel. Inside you can find Michelangelo’s wooden crucifix, and frescos and artwork by Perugino and Andrea Orcagna. Tour the Palazzo Pitti, and the Boboli Gardens behind it. The Palazzo incorporates a palace, art gallery, museums and the not to be missed Royal Apartments. Hanging in the apartments are priceless pictures by Italian masters like Rubens and Raphael. Wander around the beautiful Boboli Gardens and admire the maze, fountains and the terraces which offer fantastic views over Florence.

Spend today visiting the nearby city of Pisa, famous for its architectural marvel – the iconic Leaning Tower. Marvel at the other sights of the Piazza dei Miracoli, candling the Baptistery, before heading into the city’s heart to experience its more authentic side with tree-line avenues and local trattorie.

Rich variety of chocolates, candies and biscuits with a gift box in display window of italian pastry shop at the street of Florence city

Today, visit Florence's magnificent artworks. The Bargello is the oldest public building in the city. Once a prison, it became an art museum in 1859. Now, it is home to world famous sculptures and statues such as Donatello's David and Michelangelo's Bacchus. You'll struggle to get around all 45 halls of the Uffizi Gallery, but in it, you'll find some of the most prized paintings of the Renaissance period. The works of da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli adorn the walls, and you can see statues of them and other Italian masters outside the gallery itself. Finally, head towards the Basilica of Santa Croce, the biggest Franciscan church in the world. It has 16 chapels and contains memorials to many prominent Florentines, including Dante and Machiavelli.

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Time to board a train and depart for romantic Venice. It's fitting you will travel to your hotel in the floating city by water taxi, and why stop there? Once you've checked in, spend some time seeing some of the 400 bridges on a gondola ride. As you cruise along narrow canals, your gondolier will regale you with the history of Venice and its 118 islands. If you're feeling hungry, get some Cicchetti, the Italian equivalent of Tapas, in a bar along the Grand Canal. Sip on a glass of local merlot while nibbling on crostini topped with tuna or pork, or a Polpette al Carne (crispy meatballs).

Hotel Bel Sito

Short walk from St. Mark's Square and the Grand Canal

Savoia and Jolanda

Beautiful waterfront location overlooking the Venetian lagoon
Within walking distance of the Bridge of Sighs and St Mark's Square
Prime location for exploring the top sights in Venice

Londra Palace Venezia

Stunning location overlooking the lagoon
Ideal base for exploring the city's main attractions
Favourite with Citalia guests
Boutique hotel offering excellent service

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Spend the day visiting Venice's top attractions, starting with St Mark's Square, the city's largest piazza. Around the square, you'll find cafés, shops and Venice's most important historical buildings. The Basilica San Marco is one of the most spectacular cathedrals in Italy, with glittering mosaics inside its five domes. The cathedral is full of famous artwork and relics, and a golden jeweled altarpiece. When you get outside again, look up and admire the Campanile di San Marco, the cathedral's impressive bell tower, and the Torre dell'Orologio (the clock tower). Enter the Doge's Palace and lose yourself in the opulent rooms lined with priceless Venetian art. End your visit sipping a Bellini outside one of the square’s fashionable cafés.

Your last full day in Venice includes a tour of some of the city's famous islands, starting with Murano. Famous for its glassware and exquisite jewellery, you can visit a factory and see a glass blowing demonstration, then head to the Museo del Vetro, the glass museum, to learn about the history of glass production. The second island on your itinerary is Burano. Brightly coloured fishermen's cottages line the town's canals, while the world famous Burano lace is handmade by women sitting in the streets. Torcello is your last stop. Venice's first cathedral sits peacefully among small vineyards on this sparsely populated island.

Small romantic water canal with restaurants in Dorsoduro region in Venice

It’s time to bid a fond farewell to Italy and its unforgettable cities. But before you do why not pop out for breakfast at a local pasticceria (pastry shop)? Enjoy a Bignè al Cioccolato (Choux pastry with chocolate cream) and a cappuccino before departing on your private water taxi (approx. 20 minutes) for Marco Polo Airport and your flight home.

8 days from £1,449 per person

Practical information, flight information, visa information.

At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.

Throughout 2024, the local government of Venice will be trialling the Venice Access Fee. Those staying in a hotel in Venice are not required to pay this, however, must apply online for an exemption. The Access Fee is set at €5 per day per person and must be paid by each person who accesses the Ancient City of Venice. For further information, visit the official site here: https://cda.veneziaunica.it/en/access-fee .

The price is based on 2 adults sharing, travelling in October 2024. Our Italy Experts can personalise all of our Twin and Multi-Centre holidays for a date and destination that suits you. For a bespoke quote, give one of our Personal Travel Planners a call on 01293 765055.

Quote reference number:53251930

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23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip

D o you constantly think to yourself “I want to go to Italy!” as you scroll through social media looking at colorful cliffside villages and huge plates of pasta on gingham tablecloths? You’re not alone! Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in existence. From visiting big cities like Rome and Milan to the Riviera and countryside of Tuscany, everyone should get the opportunity to take a trip to Italy and experience la dolce vita at least once.

Despite the fact that Italian cuisine and culture are popular around the world, visiting Italy is a completely different ball game. This guide covers all the essential travel tips for Italy you need to know before visiting for the first time so you can avoid common travel mistakes.

It can be a surprisingly conservative country with unexpected own laws and rules. Let’s not even get started on the rules and traditions around food and drink yet! Knowing these basic Italy travel tips will allow you to focus your attention on buying cute leather handbags in Florence or sailing on Lake Como instead.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Italy:

Get an Easy Italy Itinerary

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Italy? This guide does the work for you!

Awesome hotels in Italy

Rome : Hotel Artemide
Venice : Palazzo Madonna
Florence : Hotel Santa Maria Novella
Amalfi Coast: Hotel Villa Garden
Cinque Terre : Il Sogno di Manarola
Tuscany : Agriturismo Farm Stay

Fantastic tours in Italy

Rome Vespa Tour
Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
Tuscany Tour from Florence
Pompeii with an Archaeologist
Cinque Terre Boat Cruise

Renting a Car in Italy?

If you want to see the Italian countryside, I recommend you drive yourself. We prefer to use Rental Cars and Expedia Cars . We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. Be sure to read these tips for renting a car in Italy .

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking at this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

1. Northern and Southern Italy are Very Different

Italy wasn’t even a country until 1861 when most of the current 20 regions of Italy were united. 150 years isn’t a long time when you think about it, so each region is still totally different from each other. This variety is part of the fun of traveling to Italy and what keeps tourists returning again and again!

To put things simply, Northern Italy is very different from Southern Italy. Most of the reasons behind this are economic and employment-based, but there are other differences you’ll notice too.

Much of the landscape of Northern Italy is Alpine and lush with lots of vineyards, whereas the south is much hotter and has a stronger Mediterranean vibe. Both areas are worth visiting on your trip to Italy, but your style of travel and interests will dictate the best regions to visit.

2. Consider these Italian Destinations for Your Trip

Let’s dig into some of the most incredible places to visit! If you’ve never visited Italy before, the entire country is your oyster, so this is a breakdown of just some of the most popular Italian travel destinations.

Italian Cities

Rome – Italy’s iconic capital, you can also visit Vatican City
Milan – International hub where you can visit Lake Como and Lake Maggiore
Venice – Storied canal-laden city close to Verona and Lake Garda
Florence – Heart of the Renaissance where you can take a day trip to Siena
Naples – Birthplace of pizza and close to Mount Vesuvius
Cinque Terre – Colorful cliffside villages on the Italian Riviera
Tuscan Countryside – One of the best wine regions lined with cypress trees
Italian Alps – Closely resembles Switzerland with lots of winter sports
Amalfi Coast – Romantic cobblestone villages and beach resorts (pictured above)
Sicily – Blend of Greece, Spain, and Italy with delicious street food

Check out the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre if you’re traveling as a couple in the warmer months. Families can head to the major cities with lots of kid-friendly activities and take day trips to the countryside.

Read more: Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]

3. Book Tickets to Popular Tourist Attractions in Advance

If you’re visiting any of the big cities in Italy, this is one Italy travel tip you should take. Most of the top museums, galleries, and landmarks will sell a limited number of tickets with time slots in advance. If you aren’t organized, you will have to line up on the day and potentially wait for an hour or more in the baking hot sun.

These are attractions like the Colosseum in Rome , Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence , and the Vatican Museums in Vatican City . It’s understandable that you don’t want to over plan your vacation, but just having tickets to the must-see attractions will make your trip much more enjoyable.

However, you can’t buy tickets to some of the top free attractions, like the Duomo in Florence and St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, for example. Consider if it’s worth booking a guided tour to skip those lines. For the St. Peter’s in particular it’s a really good idea to book a skip-the-line tour in advance as the wait can stretch on for ages! Check the availability calendar below and be sure to snag your tickets:

There’s one attraction where you will have to buy tickets in advance with no exceptions. There are only a finite amount of people able to see The Last Supper painting by Leonardo Da Vinci in Milan each day. Again, you can book a guided tour if the public sale tickets are sold out – that option will also provide a lot more context to your visit!

4. Expect a Tourist Tax on Accommodation When Visiting Italy

When traveling Italy, you’ll quickly realize that all accommodations have to charge a tax for tourists by law. The amount will depend on the quality of your stay (e.g. hostel or luxury resort), the number of people on your booking, the number of nights, and which Italian city you’re visiting. Yes, this includes short-term rental apartments like Airbnbs!

For example, the tax ranges between €3 to €7 per person, per night in Rome. It normally needs to be paid in cash upon arrival. While it’s not a huge amount, if you’re traveling to Italy on a budget I don’t want you to be surprised! For a family of four spending 10 days in Italy it could easily add up to several hundred dollars.

5. Apartment Rentals and Hotels Will Ask for Copies of Your Passport

It’s normal for tourists to present their international identification (passport) when staying at a hostel or checking into a hotel room. But if you have booked an apartment rental for your trip to Italy, they will also ask for a photo of your passport page. If you have an in-person check-in, they might take a photo of it themselves.

This might seem a little suspicious, but it’s the law! They’re not going to use your passport information for anything other than passing it on to the local authorities.

6. You need to carry your passport with you at all times

Speaking of passports…

While there’s some debate about whether you need to bring your original passport with you rather than a copy, one thing’s for certain: by law, you can be stopped at any time in Italy and asked to show your passport or legal identification issued by your national government – a US drivers license is not sufficient.

Bringing your passport around with you can be nerve-wracking, as there is a risk of pickpocketing in Italy (as in all populated areas). You’ll want to make sure it’s in a secured inner pocket of your day bag. Wear it close to your body in the front, or on your side but with your hand on it at all times. The bag above is great because the inner compartments are secured by both a zipper and a flap.

7. Get an International Driving Permit to Drive in Italy

When planning your epic vacation, you’ll need to figure out how to travel in Italy. Car rental is a great choice, particularly if you have lots of luggage or want to visit remote destinations.

There are a few unique things to consider before renting a car in Italy . Other European countries may not have this requirement, but all non-EU drivers must present an international driving license when hiring from an Italian car rental company. They only cost around $20 and are super easy to get from AAA before you leave home.

You should also ensure you have extensive vehicle and travel insurance before getting a rental car. Narrow, winding Italian roads and reckless Italian drivers can make for a challenging car trip!

We use our Chase Sapphire Reserve for car rentals because it offers great primary insurance (meaning our own insurance wouldn’t get involved in a claim) and doesn’t exclude Italy. There’s also no foreign transaction fee and solid lounge access overseas. If you only have one travel credit card in your wallet, it’s a great choice!

8. Avoid Taxis – Most Italian Cities Are Walkable

It’s totally understandable if you’d rather not navigate the Tuscan rail network after a 10+ hour flight with lots of luggage and multiple kids. That’s what pre-arranged airport transfers are for! Beyond that, opt for public transport or walk so you can avoid taking taxis altogether (if you’re able).

In my experience it can be challenging in some place to hail taxis off the street in many cities, leaving you to order one through your hotel or head to the nearest station for a taxi stand. Uber and other ride-share companies are still in their infancy and the traffic in some cities will make you’d wish you were walking anyway.

One of the best pieces of Italy travel advice is to walk when and where you can. Almost every historic city center in Italy is walkable (wear comfy shoes) and Google Maps will help you get around. You’ll see more side streets, charming churches, and allow for more spontaneous travel experiences.

9. Learn Italy’s Coffee Rules to Avoid a Faux Pas

Wait, you can’t just drink coffee whenever and wherever you like?! You can, but in the spirit of ‘do as the Romans do’, you may want to put down that venti iced latte and assimilate to Italy’s coffee-drinking routine while you’re on vacation.

Generally speaking, Italians drink espresso by default. If you ask for a caffè in a coffee shop, you will be presented with one shot of black coffee. Macchiatos are becoming more and more common, and these are double-shot espressos with a dollop of foamed, hot milk.

For Italians, a cappuccino or other milk-heavy coffee drink is a breakfast drink. They wouldn’t be caught dead ordering one after lunch.

10. Train Travel Is the Best Way to Get Around Italy

One of the best tips for traveling in Italy is to embrace train travel. Italy has an extensive public transport system and despite the odd strike or delay, it is affordable and super easy to understand. We’ve used the train for long-distance legs like Venice to Florence as well as day trips like Florence to Cinque Terre.

There are two main train companies: Trenitalia and Italo Treno, but there are others too. You can find a great explanation and book your tickets here . When traveling Italy between cities on an Italo Treno service, you need to buy your train ticket in advance to get a seat. For regional train tickets, you can buy them at the train station and sit in any free seat. That’s it!

Once upon a time, you needed to validate your ticket at the train station by using a date stamping machine on the platforms, but this is becoming obsolete. Download the Trenitalia app and screenshot your tickets.

Busy train stations might make you feel overwhelmed, but there are always information desks that can help you find your platform.

Read more: How to Travel to Italy on a Budget

11. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle for Drinking Fountains

Put the bottled water back on the shelf and take advantage of the clean, free, and fresh drinking water available in some of Italy’s major cities. One of the top pieces of travel advice for Italy is to bring a reusable water bottle and only drink tap water while on vacation.

Rome is particularly famous for its 2,500 drinking fountains as the Ancient Romans worshipped water like a god. Venice, Verona, Pisa, Florence, Sorrento, Capri, and many other cities have these fountains.

By law, local authorities have to put a sign up if a fountain is not safe to drink. If there’s no sign, there’s no problem!

12. Adapt to Italian Dining and Eating Habits

Aside from not drinking bottled water, there are other eating and dining habits unique to Italy.

Many Italians opt to eat a light breakfast of espresso with a sweet pastry. Traditionally, workers ate their light breakfast while standing at the counter of a coffee shop. One of the top Italy travel tips is that you do the same as it’s such a fun, local experience!

Beyond Italian breakfast, something else that some Italian restaurants do is include a ‘cover charge’ on your bill which is not a mandatory tip like it is in some countries. This extra cost is for fresh bread and sometimes sparkling water for the table. If you don’t want any bread or water, tell your server when they first bring it over.

Some Italians still go to their local market for fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat instead of a supermarket. If you are staying in an apartment and want to make your own food, consider shopping at a local market too.

13. Wear Conservative Clothing When Visiting Churches

You can’t walk two minutes without passing an ornate church in this country, and so many of the top landmarks are churches too. One key Italy travel tip is to pack conservative clothing or keep a light scarf in your backpack for extra coverage as necessary.

Most churches require visitors to cover their chests and shoulders. Exposed knees aren’t usually an issue, but booty shorts are a no-no.

14. Italy Is Not Warm Year-Round – Check the Local Weather

Speaking of clothing, you may need to rethink your wardrobe depending on where and when you are going to Italy. While it’s warm and dry during the summer months, you’d be surprised how cold Italy can get in the north.

One of the top, essential Italy travel tips is to check the weather forecast just before you leave. Pack at least one pair of long pants and a light sweater even if the weather looks warm in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Read more: What to pack for Italy in Fall

15. Avoid Common Travel Scams in Big Cities in Italy

Every popular tourist destination has its fair share of pickpockets and travel scammers. Watch out for them when walking through a historic city center, like Piazza San Marco in Venice for example, and keep your belongings and valuables secure at all times.

One of the most infamous is the ‘friendship bracelet’ scam. Someone will attempt to tie strings around your wrist and say it is free until it’s knotted and they will ask for payment. Approaching you with a ‘free’ flower and making your partner pay up is another.

Leaving a small cup of change or postcards on the ground for you to accidentally walk across and seek compensation is a popular scam in Florence especially!

16. Public Bathrooms Are Almost Never Free

While public bathrooms are usually plentiful and free in the US, that’s not the case everywhere.

One of the best travel tips for Italy is to make use of cafe and restaurant bathrooms whilst dining. Keep some coins on you if nature calls and you need to use a public bathroom as there is almost always a charge. Even in train stations!

17. Follow These Tips for Choosing the Best Gelaterias

Not all Italian gelato is created equal. These Italy travel tips will help you choose only the best homemade, artificial flavor-free gelato made on the premises.

If the gelato is piled too high in the container, it’s been artificially ‘fluffed up’. Silver containers are a good sign as that’s how it gets transported from the kitchen to the shop. Look for natural colors i.e. pistachio is naturally an olive color and banana gelato should look almost white.

18. Drinking Wine Is Cheap and the House Wine Is Great

Do you love Italian wine? You’re in luck! Italian wine is sold in every restaurant and supermarket in the country. Head to Tuscany if you love Italian red wine and Veneto if you prefer white wine or sparkling.

House wine (known as vino della casa in Italian) doesn’t have the stigma of being the cheapest, worst wine on the menu either. Yes, house wine is still cheap and it’s not the best, but it’s usually either the restaurant’s own label or from a local vineyard. Many Italians will order this vino every time they dine out.

Italian wine is overall much cheaper than it is abroad too. Win-win!

19. Bring a Travel Credit Card and Cash – You’ll Need Both!

One of the essential travel in Italy tips you need to know is about money. Italy uses the euro and it’s a smart idea to carry both travel-friendly credit cards and cash.

What makes a credit card travel-friendly? For starters, be sure there’s no foreign transaction fee – usually you’ll need a card that charges an annual fee to get that critical feature. I recommend one like the Chase Sapphire Reserve that has really good travel insurance and emergency medical coverage. We used it all over the world and never had an issue, and the points we accumulated let us keep traveling longer!

If you usually use American Express, bring an alternative because many Italian vendors won’t accept them. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted by hotels, restaurants, and stores but bring cash for tips, accommodation tax, and other small purchases.

Just don’t carry too much cash – if you get pickpocketed, your travel insurance will only cover so much.

20. Learn Some Basic Italian Phrases When You Visit Italy

You likely already know a couple of Italian words, but these visiting Italy travel tips will clue you up on the basis so you can throw in the odd phrase when chatting to servers and locals:

Good morning – Buongiorno
Goodbye – Arrivederci
Informal Hi/Bye – Ciao
Please – Per favore
Thank you – Grazie
Excuse me – Mi scusi

Just as long as you don’t accidentally say gracias instead of grazie , you’ll be doing better than some! (I admit to making that mistake myself – as a French and Spanish speaker, the languages are so similar that my brain sometimes runs on autopilot.)

21. Dine Away from Piazzas and Eat Regional Italian Food

One of the simplest Italy travel tips is to avoid eating at restaurants in piazzas in big cities.

By all means, order a cocktail and enjoy people-watching. But you’ll find cheaper, better Italian food a block away down a side street or in a residential neighborhood.

22. You Won’t Find Spaghetti Bolognese on Italian Menus

There’s American food, there’s Italian food, and there’s Italian-American food. One of the mind-blowing things to know before traveling to Italy is that many dishes you think were invented in Italy weren’t.

Garlic bread is a type of bruschetta in Italy and not a common one. Bolognese sauce exists, but it’s not usually served with mincemeat like spaghetti bolognese.

And what about pepperoni? If you ask for that in Italy, don’t be surprised to find chopped bell peppers on your pizza.

23. Embrace Italian Culture and Dolce Far Niente

A key piece of advice on traveling to Italy is to just relax. The Italians have a saying, dolce far niente . It means the sweetness of doing nothing.

Leave some room in your trip itinerary to wander without looking at your Maps app or sip a cappuccino at a cafe without looking at your phone.

Essential Italy Travel Tips to Know Before Your Vacation

These travel tips for Italy will help you know what to expect from Italian menus, accommodations, locals, and more so you can feel confident and safe on vacation. Whether you’re hiking Cinque Terre at sunset or eating cannoli in Sicily, you’ll have the time of your life on your summer vacation, Italian style!

Don’t miss these additional resources as you plan your trip to Italy:

Renting a Car in Italy: La Dolce Vita on Four Wheels
How to Travel to Italy on a Budget
Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]
Fall capsule wardrobe for travel: what to pack for Italy in October

The post 23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip appeared first on The Family Voyage .

Planning a trip to Italy? Our list of Italy travel tips covers everything from must-visit attractions to practical advice for an amazing journey.

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Hotels + Resorts

13 Best Hotels in Florence, Italy

These are the best hotels in Florence, according to locals and experts.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

Brunelleschi Hotel

As one of Italy’s great art cities, Florence draws travelers from all over the world. So, it’s no wonder Tuscany's capital's accommodations cater to all travelers and budgets. You're as likely to find a modest bed-and-breakfast as a five-star luxury hotel in a historic palace with beautiful gardens.

As a Rome-based journalist, I visit Florence every chance I get. I’ve been eight times and try to see more hotels each time I go. Sometimes, I check in for the night; sometimes, I stop by for an aperitivo or dinner. These are my picks for the best hotels in Florence, ranging from a modest and quirky B&B full of vintage furniture to the luxurious properties that Travel + Leisure editors and readers love most.

Il Tornabuoni

Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

The bold design, rich colors, and playful accents make this hotel, set inside a 12th-century palazzo, feel fresh and modern.

Entry-level rooms are a little snug.

Featured on T+L's 2022 It List , this luxurious entry from Hyatt’s Unbound Collection places you steps from designer stores like Ferragamo and Gucci on Florence’s most upscale shopping street. Rooms and suites are contemporary, with plush furniture in bright, bold colors like royal blue, sunny yellow, cherry red, and lavender. When I stayed here shortly after the hotel opened, my room had charming details like roundels painted with animals and a comfortable blue velvet sofa. The most spectacular suites feature original 17th-century frescoes.

I loved sitting on the rooftop Butterfly Terrace and soaking in views of the city’s terracotta roofs. Since the hotel had just opened, there was no bar service on the roof, but now the bar is up and running, so you can sip spritzes at sunset. When the Butterfly Terrace closes in winter, La Cave — open all year for wine tastings— serves cocktails. Il Magnifico restaurant serves local specialties like pici with traditional Tuscan ragu and international favorites like club sandwiches and Caesar salads.

The Details:

Standout amenities: Casual restaurant, wine cellar, rooftop terrace, frescoed suites, wine fridges in suites
Neighborhood: Duomo
Starting rate: €720

St. Regis Florence

St Regis Florence

A historic palazzo on the banks of the Arno River sets the stage for regal opulence and signature St. Regis service.

If you're not keen on walking, choose a hotel closer to the action.

Crowned the best hotel in Florence in our 2023 World’s Best Awards , this opulent Florentine hotel is set in an aristocratic palazzo on the riverbank. “I love this property for its location next to the Arno River and how easy it is to explore the city's main shopping areas yet escape from them so easily, too,” Andrea Grisdale, A-List travel advisor and CEO of IC Bellagio, says.

Rooms and suites feature canopied beds, sparkling crystal chandeliers, and custom furniture. Tucked under the arches, the Winter Garden Bar is a magnificent setting for an aperitivo or watching the signature Champagne sabering ritual. Other elements to love are the Winter Garden Restaurant, which serves international cuisine with an Italian focus, and the St. Regis butler service, which includes welcome coffee or tea service upon check-in and complimentary garment pressing for two items per person per day.

Standout amenities: Butler service, spa suites with treatments by Clarins, Winter Garden Restaurant
Neighborhood: Santa Maria Novella
Starting rate: €575

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

Four Seasons Resorts

The historic palazzo and extensive landscaped gardens create a magical setting for a hotel with top-notch service, a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant, and a luxurious spa.

Some might find its location on the northeastern edge of the historic center too far from the main attractions.

“This property oozes luxury, amazing service, stunning, extensive, unmatchable gardens, and one of the most special GMs at the helm I have ever met,” Grisdale gushes. She’s not alone in appreciating the charms of this luxurious retreat in the magnificent Palazzo della Gherardesca: readers consistently rank it in the top five hotels in Florence in our annual World’s Best Awards. It enchants with Michelin-starred cuisine, an outdoor pool, a luxurious spa, and a private garden — the city's largest.

My husband and I enjoyed a romantic dinner at the Michelin-starred Il Palagio restaurant. The elegant tasting menus — served with the sommelier's thoughtful wine pairings — put a contemporary spin on traditional Tuscan dishes. The breakfast is top-notch, and the staff is happy to satisfy any request. The wellness offerings include signature treatments, aqua fitness classes, and guided garden walks.

Standout amenities: Michelin-starred restaurant, luxurious spa, fitness classes, outstanding service
Neighborhood: San Giovanni
Starting rate: €1,200

Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Hotel Savoy

Right on bustling Piazza della Repubblica, this family-run boutique hotel features beautiful design with Pucci textiles, an excellent restaurant, and superlative service.

If you're a light sleeper and easily bothered by noise, consider a location that is more removed from the crowds.

Rocco Forte hotels are known for exceptional service, central location, excellent cuisine, and classic yet modern design — and the Savoy certainly fits the bill, consistently earning a spot on our World’s Best list year after year. “Hotel Savoy is a haven for design enthusiasts,” according to A-List travel advisor Matteo Della Grazie of Discover Your Italy. Maybe the location on Piazza della Repubblica or Laudomia Pucci's bold, colorful textiles draw you in, but the warm, friendly staff will keep you coming back.

During my stay, I appreciated the wonderful concierge's help and thoughtful design details like the beautiful wallpaper and textiles in my room, which had a partial view of the Duomo. I loved starting the day with breakfast at Irene, which overlooks the square. If you opt to eat lunch or dinner at Irene, you'll be treated to renowned chef Fulvio Pierangelini’s superlative spaghetti al pomodoro and other classic dishes like sea bass with olive oil mashed potatoes and artichokes.

Standout amenities: Excellent restaurant, spa with treatments by Santa Maria Novella, gym outfitted with Technogym equipment, yoga and dance classes, outstanding service
Starting rate: €700

Helvetia & Bristol Firenze - Starhotels Collezione

Helvetia & Bristol Firenze

This intimate hotel is one of Florence’s oldest, but it feels fresh and modern thanks to a recent renovation.

The Bristol wing is more modern than the Helvetia wing, so if you have a strong preference, specify it when booking.

Opened in 1885, the recently renovated Helvetia & Bristol shines brighter than ever. Just around the corner from the bustling Piazza della Repubblica, this Leading Hotels of the World member ranked among the top five hotels in Florence in our 2023 and 2022 World’s Best Awards. The revamp didn’t just update the gorgeous decor; it also added a spa, a restaurant, and a casual café by the renowned Cibrèo restaurant group.

On a recent visit, I enjoyed delicious Italian specialties at the restaurant and relaxed in the spa's Roman baths circuit. My suite had a comfortable four-poster bed, a sitting area with a plush velvet sofa and crystal chandelier, and a minibar cleverly hidden in a mirrored side table. Della Grazie calls it “ideal for those who appreciate classic Italian decor.”

The Details:

Standout amenities: Restaurant and cafe by a beloved Florentine restaurant group, spa with Roman bath circuit, outstanding service
Neighborhood: Centro Storico
Starting rate: €650

This independent boutique hotel delivers premium service at a value that exceeds its rating.

If you want to dine at the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, book in advance since there are only seven tables.

T+L readers voted this hotel the fifth best in Florence in our 2023 World’s Best Awards. It's one of Grisdale's favorite hotels, and she raves about the staff. “Palus at the front desk is a reason alone to stay here,” she says. Grisdale also notes that some rooms have Duomo views and praises the location, calling it “central yet tucked away in the quietest corner surrounded by artisans.”

The hotel is housed in a 6th-century Byzantine tower and a medieval church with original architectural details. The renovated interiors are elegant and modern, and soft colors accent the otherwise neutral color scheme. The hotel is home to Santa Elisabetta — a two-Michelin-star restaurant specializing in seafood — and the casual Osteria Pagliazza. “Its partially Renaissance, medieval, and even Roman origins make it a haven for history buffs, with the rooftop bar boasting the most breathtaking view of the Duomo,” Della Grazia says.

Standout amenities: Two-Michelin-star restaurant, outstanding service
Starting rate: €284

Hotel Lungarno

Nautical style, an impressive art collection, and intimate fine dining make this elegant bolthole a favorite.

Not all rooms are created equal; expect to pay extra for more space and a river view.

This five-star hotel, part of the Lungarno Collection owned by the Ferragamo fashion dynasty, is recognized as one of 2022 World’s Best hotels for its sophisticated design and outstanding restaurant. With acclaimed designer Michele Bonan's nautically inspired interiors, the hotel seems to float on the Arno River like a luxury yacht. “I love how it’s directly on the river with stunning views of Ponte Vecchio,” Grisdale says. It's been one of her go-to hotels for years. “You truly feel life as a Florentine when staying here.”

I suggest you start with an aperitivo at Picteau Bistro & Bar, which displays Picassos and Cocteaus and has a handful of tables outside directly overlooking the Arno. Then, head to the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, Borgo San Jacopo, for dinner. It's one of Florence's most romantic and elegant restaurants. Admire the Arno while the warm, welcoming staff serves creative tasting menus.

Standout amenities: Interiors by an acclaimed designer, impressive art collection, Michelin-starred restaurant
Neighborhood: Oltrarno
Starting rate: €480

THE PLACE Firenze

Dario Garofalo/THE PLACE Firenze

Thanks to its diminutive dimensions and personalized service, this intimate boutique hotel feels more like a private home than a hotel.

You might be disappointed if you expect the amenities of a larger hotel — there’s no on-site gym or spa.

Acclaimed firm Luigi Fragola Architects freshly redesigned this intimate boutique hotel near Santa Maria Novella Station. With just 20 rooms and suites, this Leading Hotels of the World member feels more like a home than a hotel. Details like Ginori porcelain, art books, and cashmere throws set this property apart. “I love its location, [which is] an easy walk from the train station yet a world away,” Grisdale says, explaining that it's “great for people watching as you enjoy outdoor aperitivo or dining on the piazza.”

The hotel’s most significant selling point might be its general manager, Claudio Meli, a true Florentine character with a full Rolodex. From procuring the best artisan goods to organizing exclusive experiences, Meli and his team work magic to fulfill your every wish. Through The Place of Wonders foundation, operated by the hotel's parent company, The Hospitality Experience, you can join workshops to learn about traditional crafts like weaving, glass etching, goldsmithing, and cashmere production, while also supporting the local artisans who preserve these skills.

Standout amenities: Interiors by an acclaimed architect group, casual restaurant with outdoor dining on the piazza, fantastic general manager
Starting rate: €500

Villa La Massa

With 25 acres of gardens and a pool, this five-star hotel has the feel of a countryside estate, but it’s just a 15-minute drive from the center of Florence.

The location is too far to walk to Florence’s main attractions.

This 13th-century estate, initially constructed for a noble Florentine family, provides a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. A member of Leading Hotels of the World and a sibling to Villa d’Este on Lake Como, it transports you back in time with its Renaissance decor. Grisdale praises the beautiful grounds, pool, and proximity to the city center. "I love this option for guests who want to feel like they are enjoying a taste of the Tuscan countryside yet want to be an easy shuttle ride into Florence for a little city life,” she says.

I loved wandering the grounds planted with flowers and lemon trees during my stay. Sipping a cocktail made with liqueur from Santa Maria Novella at the Medicean Bar, I felt transported into a scene from a Wes Anderson film. The restaurant provided a charming setting for a sophisticated dinner of local specialties. Additionally, there's a relaxed bistro located in a renovated stone barn near the pool.

Standout amenities: 25 acres of gardens, outdoor pool, spa, elegant restaurant, casual bistro, cocktail bar, cooking classes
Neighborhood: Candeli
Starting rate: €475

Sina Villa Medici, Autograph Collection

Sina Villa Medici

You'll find a fantastic venue called Harry's Bar the Garden inside a glass greenhouse-like space that overlooks the tranquil garden and pool.

The pool is a plus, but it’s not heated, and lounge chairs are only set up in the summer.

“Housed in a luxurious 19th-century palace, Sina Villa Medici exudes classic Florentine elegance,” Della Grazia says. “Its expansive gardens and large pool are a haven for relaxation, attracting numerous international celebrities seeking tranquility during their stay in Florence.” Indeed, it’s one of the few hotels within walking distance of the city’s sights with a pool.

The original Harry’s Bar Firenze, which opened on Lungarno Vespucci in 1953, shuttered, but I loved visiting the relatively recent encore, Harry’s Bar the Garden , inside the hotel. I ordered the signature beef carpaccio and baked pasta with parmesan and prosciutto to get a taste of the bar's predecessor. The bartenders are adept at stirring up a variety of negroni variations; I especially liked the Garibaldi with Campari and orange juice.

The spa has a sauna, Turkish bath, and fitness area. Since the hotel is a Marriott Autograph Collection member, Bonvoy members can earn and redeem loyalty points.

Standout amenities: Outdoor pool, spa with sauna and Turkish bath, gym, outpost of Harry’s Bar
Starting rate: €350

Grand Hotel Minerva

Design lovers will appreciate renowned architect Carlo Scarpa's midcentury aesthetics, and anyone can appreciate the rooftop bar and pool.

The hotel is a bit pricey for a four-star.

This four-star hotel is in a 13th-century palazzo on Piazza Santa Maria Novella. “Grand Hotel Minerva is best experienced from its suites overlooking Brunelleschi's Dome,” says Della Grazia. “Its rooftop bar and pool offer the perfect retreat, especially during summer.”

Midcentury master Carlo Scarpa renovated the space in 1957 — today, it blends both eras. I stopped by recently for a cup of tea and got a peek at the Scarpa-designed restaurant. Its checkered floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sleek midcentury furniture create a modern atmosphere, contrasting with the ancient frescoes and a room with coffered ceilings from the 1300s.

The Grand Hotel Minerva’s standards and service match those of top-tier establishments. The above-and-beyond experience can be attributed to owners Sara Maestrelli and her aunt Elena, who run the hotel — part of their small but growing Collezione Em — with their signature thoughtfulness.

Standout amenities: Rooftop pool and bar, restaurant designed by a prominent midcentury architect, gym with a view, garden
Starting rate: €525

Oltrarno Splendid

OltrarnoSplendid

Quirky and bohemian, this hotel in artsy Oltrarno is an excellent choice for an alternative Florence experience.

This is a small B&B, not a full-service luxury hotel, so there’s no restaurant, and the reception desk is only staffed until 7 p.m.

This small, intimate B&B is housed in a historic palazzo in Oltrarno, just across the river from the historic center. I love staying in Oltrarno because it’s the Florentine’s Florence, full of great little vintage stores, artisan boutiques, and wonderful restaurants and bars. The Oltrarno Splendid perfectly fits into the neighborhood's bohemian spirit. Owned and designed by calligrapher Betty Soldi and her husband Matteo Perduca, it’s full of vintage treasures and quirky touches.

It has just 14 rooms, some with clawfoot tubs, vintage maps or posters, and chandeliers. Your room rate includes a buffet breakfast served upstairs in a space decorated with original art. There’s no restaurant, but the concierge is happy to make reservations at Soldi and Perduca’s restaurant, Regina Bistecca, near the Duomo or suggest other restaurants nearby.

Standout amenities: Quirky design full of personality, buffet breakfast included, clawfoot tubs in some rooms
Starting rate: €269

25Hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino

25Hours Piazza San Paolino

This funky hotel, with a design inspired by Dante’s "Divine Comedy," is a departure from the city’s traditional properties.

The decor might be a bit over-the-top for some.

I stayed at this funky hotel by the 25Hours brand shortly after it opened. I loved architect Paola Navone's colorful and kitschy design. The theme is Dante’s "Divine Comedy" — if you stay here, you sleep in heaven or hell. The decor is elaborate.

The main restaurant is in a beautiful glass-ceilinged atrium with huge potted plants. The Companion Dolce Amaro Bar focuses on bittersweet amari, so it's no surprise that the negroni is a bestseller. The Alimentari is modeled after traditional Florentine grocery stores and serves bread and pastries from the popular bakery S. Forno. There’s also a cinema, a gym, a sauna, and a small shop that sells books about Florence.

Standout amenities: Fun and kitschy design, casual restaurant, amaro bar, garden, cafe, gym equipped with Technogym equipment, sauna
Starting rate: €189

Know Before You Go

Pick the right location..

Florence is a walkable city, but it's still important to choose a location based on your priorities. Decide whether you want to be in the center of the action, prefer to stay further afield with more space, or would enjoy the more local feel of staying across the river in Oltrarno.

Find the best time to visit.

Florence’s low season seems to get shorter every year, but you’ll likely find better prices in winter — the spring brings crowds and higher room rates. In August, many shops and restaurants close for a few weeks.

Related: The Best and Worst Times to Visit Italy

Book activities in advance.

Hotel concierges can help you book tables at restaurants and tickets at popular museums, but during the high season, plan well in advance or risk scarce availability.

How We Chose These Hotels

Several hotels made the list because they earned a coveted spot on our It List (T+L editors’ picks for the best new hotels around the world) or the World’s Best Awards, which T+L readers determine via vote ( see the 2023 results ). Our readers consistently rank many of these hotels among the top five in Florence.

Author Laura Itzkowitz contributed her expertise and also tapped A-List travel advisors Andrea Grisdale and Matteo Della Grazie to share theirs. As a Rome-based journalist, Itzkowitz frequently visits Florence and stays updated on its hottest new hotels. She has personally visited dozens of Florence hotels, and if she can't spend the night, she often stops by for a tour, drink, or restaurant meal.

As with all our hotel roundups, editors make sure that all recommendations align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

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Italy Travel Guide 2024: Expert Tips to Confidently Explore Venice, Rome, Florence, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and Sicily (Full Color Handbook)

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Insider Tips to Escape Tourist Traps: Discover hidden alleyways, local markets, and off-the-beaten-path destinations that most tourists miss. Experience Italy like a true local.
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Hidden Gems and Top Sights: Explore both iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures, from ancient ruins to contemporary art galleries.
Cultural Etiquette and Customs: Learn the dos and don'ts of Italian culture, from greetings and gestures to dining etiquette and social norms.
Best Places to Eat, Sleep, and Relax: Find recommendations for the best restaurants, hotels, and spas in every region, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.
Self-Guided Walking Tours: Follow detailed itineraries to explore cities on foot, uncovering hidden gems and local secrets along the way.
Budget-Friendly Travel Tips: Discover how to save money without sacrificing the quality of your experience.
Practical Information: Get essential advice on transportation, currency exchange, visa requirements, and more.
Language English
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Publication date June 18, 2024
File size 81581 KB
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ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D2TT59H6
Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 18, 2024
Language ‏ : ‎ English
File size ‏ : ‎ 81581 KB
Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
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About the author

Fred Tovar is an avid travel guide writer and a Canadian citizen currently residing in Japan. With a passion for exploring the world, Fred has journeyed through 23 countries and counting. His extensive travels and diverse cultural experiences enrich his writing, offering readers insightful and captivating guides. Fred's unique perspective as an expatriate in Japan adds a distinctive touch to his work, inspiring others to embark on their own global adventures.

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How to Take a Fun Florence to Venice Day Trip (No Tour Necessary!)
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Florence to Venice Train Trip

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Europe trip Florence, Paris, Brussels, London

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Best of Venice, Florence & Rome in 10 Days Tour
from $2,995 per person + air. The Rick Steves Best of Venice, Florence & Rome tour begins with Venice's timeless St. Mark's Square and Basilica, continues on to Michelangelo's stunning David and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and ends with Rome's ancient Forum, Colosseum, and Pantheon. You'll also enjoy guided neighborhood walks, memorable ...
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A trip from Rome to Venice through the Tuscan hills of Italy is fantastic for families, couples, solo travelers, and literally anyone (and their mama) visiting Italy for the first time.What's more, this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary hits a lot of the major historic and art-rich places we learned about in school, doesn't break the bank, and is great all year round.
Venice & Florence: Best Itinerary Ideas
Rome. Day 10. Depart Rome. Explore Italy's top cities and cultural sights on this 10-day trip. Start in colorful Venice to see the ornate Doge's Palace and take a ride on the Grand Canal. In Florence, see world-famous art by Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Donatello, then go wine tasting in rural Tuscany.
7 days in Italy: How to see Venice, Florence and Rome in a week
Begin your adventure in the beautiful city of Venice, followed by a two-day stop in Florence that will eventually bring you to majestic Rome. Here's everything you can do in seven days, from Venetian glass-blowing demonstrations to Vespa tours of the hills of Tuscany. Day 1 - 2: Venice. Day 3 - 4: Florence. Day 5 - 7: Rome.
8-Day Adventure in Rome, Florence, and Venice
Best Time: Jan-Dec. Cultural Exploration. Visiting Museums & Art Galleries. Get whisked away through time with an 8-day trip to the three crown jewels of Italy: Rome, Florence, and Venice. Begin your exploration of these Italian cities in Rome, where you'll find majestic landmarks of history like the Colosseum along with the artistic grandeur ...
The Perfect Rome Florence & Venice Itinerary
CONTENTS. 1 Planning A Trip To Rome Florence And Venice Italy. 1.1 Rome Florence Pisa Venice Itinerary At A Glance; 2 Itinerary For Rome Florence Venice In 10 Days. 2.1 Day 1-3 Rome Must Sees & Vatican City Hidden Gems; 2.2 Getting From Rome To Florence By Train; 2.3 Day 4-6 Places To Visit In Florence And Day Trip To Pisa; 2.4 Day 7-10 Explore Venice Canals And Day Trip To Murano And Burano
Venice, Rome, & Florence: Best Itinerary Ideas
Most travelers will find that 7 to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Italy trip with stops in Venice, Rome, and Florence. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 5 or 6 days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop, or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions ...
Venice, Rome, Cinque Terre & Florence: Best Itinerary Ideas
Most travelers spend 10-14 days in Venice, Rome, Cinque Terre, and Florence combined. Visiting Venice, Rome, Cinque Terre, and Florence in 8 or 9 days is possible, but it will feel rushed. With 15 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip. The most common extensions are Amalfi Coast, Milan, and Sorrento.
Best of Rome, Florence and Venice
Discover a trio of Italy's most enchanting cities on a stylish journey that lets you walk in the footsteps of gladiators, drift leisurely down Venice's canals, marvel at stunning works of art, and revel in the pastoral pleasures of the countryside. Rome, Florence, and Venice (with a dash of Tuscany on the side) are among Europe's greatest treasures, and we've got the key that unlocks ...
A Week in Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome
Day 1: Travel day. Board your overnight flight to Venice today. Venice 2 nights. Day 2: Arrival in Venice. Included meal: Dinner. Welcome to Italy! Tonight, join your fellow travelers at a local restaurant for a welcome dinner featuring local specialties and beer or wine. Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Venice.
10 Days In Venice, Florence, & Milan: An Italy Itinerary
Day 2: Explore Venice. This was our main day in Venice. And there were 3 big things we wanted to do during the day: go to the Rialto Markets, explore the Doge's Palace, and go inside the Basilica di San Marco. We started with the Rialto Markets. The main ones we wanted to see were the produce and fish markets.
Florence to Venice
Trenitalia Frecce operates a train from Firenze S.M.N. to Venezia S. Lucia hourly. Tickets cost $22-75 and the journey takes 2h 14m. ItaloTreno also services this route every 4 hours. Alternatively, FlixBus operates a bus from Florence to Venezia, Tronchetto every 4 hours. Tickets cost $23-35 and the journey takes 4h 5m.
How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids: the itinerary
Rome, Venice and Florence are the most popular destinations for a first trip to Italy, and 10-day Italy itinerary recommendations for first-timers are among the most sought-after of all Italy travel plans. So today, I put these two requests together and share a family-friendly Italy itinerary to see Venice, Florence and Rome in ten days!
Tours of Italy: Venice, Florence and Rome 2024 / 2025
Enjoy an 8-day, escorted tour of Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome with Tauck exclusive after-hours visit to Sistine Chapel and Tuscan food and wine tastings. 800-788-7885 ... Travel from Florence through the Chianti hills, in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, on a day trip to Badia di Passignano; the hilly landscape, basking in golds and ...
How to Take a Fun Florence to Venice Day Trip (No Tour Necessary!)
When taking a Florence to Venice day trip, there is exactly one method of transportation that makes sense: the fast train. Slower, regional trains and driving yourself both take way too long and aren't viable for a day trip, but the fast train will take you from Florence to Venice (and vice versa) in a bit over two hours, and several trains ...
Florence to Venice
The distance between Florence and Venice is around 260 km. Venice is connected to Florence by road and railway. Travel between them is straightforward and with a bit of planning, it doesn't have to cost the earth. The train station of the historic centre of Venice is called Venezia Santa Lucia.
Best of Rome, Florence and Venice
Best of Rome, Florence and Venice. 9 Days / 8 Nights. Rome (3 nights), Florence (3), Venice (2) A perfect itinerary for your first time in Italy! We've taken care of selecting wonderful 4* hotels, transfers and 1st class train tickets between cities. All you have to do is enjoy yourself as you visit the must-sees of each city on our hand ...
10-day itinerary for visiting Italy: Florence, Venice and Rome
Day 4 & 5: Strolling in Venice. Head to Venice by train from Florence, a ride that takes approximately two hours. Again, book those tickets in advance through Trenitalia (and search for "Venezia").. Once in Venice, you can immerse yourself in the romance of the canals and beauty of handmade blown glass.Venice is known for its seafood, so take advantage and feast on octopus and calamari.
Highlights of Italy: Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples
Discover the sights and delights of Italy on this two-week highlights tour. Explore the floating city of Venice, the Renaissance jewel of Florence, and the Eternal City of Rome. Ride a Vespa through picturesque Tuscany and discover the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Soak up the culture, food, and wine while you fall in love with Italy. read more.
Florence or Venice: Which Italian City to Visit?
Florence and Venice are two of the most popular cities in Italy. Venice is known for its historic canals and glass-blown artwork while Florence is famous for its architecture, wine region, and food. If you have a finite amount of time to explore Italy, you might find yourself wondering whether to visit Florence or Venice.
Ultimate Florence to Venice Day Trip: 5 Major Sites + Food
Believe it or not, the trip from Florence to Venice is simple, affordable, and a fantastic option if you are looking to maximize your trip to Italy. Venice is truly one of the most gorgeous cities to visit: complete with winding canals, centuries-old landmarks, canal-side eateries, and surrounded by beautiful ocean. You cannot go wrong with an ...
How to Get From Venice to Florence
The flight to Rome from Venice Marco Polo is about an hour and 10 minutes, then from Rome to Florence is another 55 minutes. The layover at Rome Fiumicino typically lasts about an hour, too, making the entire journey about three hours (as long as it would take to drive). The real downfall is the price: Tickets start around $286.
Venice or Florence or both?
If you wish to visit Venice, I would start there (fly into Venice) and stay at least 3 nights, then head to Florence for 3 nights, then take the train to Naples/hire driver to AC destination 4 nights, then finally Rome 4 nights, depart Rome. Pace is 3-3-4-4.
Florence and Venice Multi Centre Holidays 2024/2025
Flights into Florence airport are also available to book through our Travel Centre. Visa Information. At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy. Throughout 2024, the local government of Venice will be trialling the Venice Access Fee.
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Pirates, visit Rome, Venice, Florence AND Lake Garda all in one 8-night trip to Italy. This package starts from £299 and includes return flights, trains between the cities and a 2-night hotel stay in each destination. You'll save up to 35%/£157 on the regular price. We might be Pirates, but we ...
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Italy: a land of sun-drenched vineyards, ancient ruins, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the bustling streets of Rome to the serene canals of Venice and the sun-kissed shores of the Amalfi Coast, Italy is a country that ignites the senses and nourishes the soul.

The Ultimate 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary by Train

Itinerary Overview

A 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

Day 2: Explore the Vatican

Day 3: Explore Rome

Day 4: Explore Florence

DAY 5: DAY TRIP TO PISA & SAN GIMIGNIANO

Day 6: Explore Venice

Day 7: Explore Venice

Getting From Rome to Venice

Travel Tips for This 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Trip

FAQ: Rome-Florence-Venice by Train

What Are the Best Places to Stop Between Rome and Venice?

Is a Road Trip Through Italy a Good Idea?

Final Thoughts

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The Ultimate Italian 8-Day Adventure: Rome, Florence and Venice

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10 Days In Venice, Florence, & Milan: An Italy Itinerary

Read Next: How Much Does A 10 Day Trip To Italy Cost?

Days 1-3: Venice

Read Next: 7 Spectacular Things To Do In Venice

Day 3: Extra Day

How To Get Around Venice

Where To Eat In Venice

Where To Stay

Days 4-8: Florence

Day 5: Buy Your Ticket & See the Sunset

Read Next: My Quest To Find The Best Views In Florence

Day 6: Climb The Dome & See David

Day 7: Day Trip To Pisa

Read Next: 5 Tips For Your Day Trip To Pisa

Day 8: Wander & See More Museums (Or Day Trip?)

How To Get To Florence

Where To Eat & Drink In Florence

Where To Drink

Where To Stay In Florence

Days 9-10: Milan

Day 10: Head Home

How To Get Around Milan

How To Get To the Airport

Where To Eat In Milan

Where To Stay In Milan

And that’s it! Hopefully my Italy itinerary will help you plan your own trip!

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How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids: the itinerary you’ll love

How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids – top 4 tips

How to see Venice, Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids at a glance

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice and orientation

Day 2 – Venice highlights and family activities

Day 3 Venice and train to Florence

Day 4 – Florence

Day 5 – Day trip to the Tuscany Countryside

Day 6 Florence Uffizi Museum and train to Rome

Day 7 – Rome Colosseum and city center

Day 8 – Rome city center and cooking class

Day 9 Rome: Vatican and Borghese Gardens

Day 10 – free morning and departure

Marta Correale