Embark on a breathtaking journey through Italy with our ultimate itinerary designed for first-timers. From the ruins of Rome to the canals of Venice and the Tuscan countryside, Italy offers a timeless escape into a world of beauty, history, and unparalleled culinary delights.
Transportation in Italy
1. Air Travel:
- Major Airports: Italy is served by several major international airports, including Rome’s Fiumicino, Milan’s Malpensa, and Venice’s Marco Polo. Numerous carriers offer flights between Italy and a host of global destinations.
2. Rail:
- Trains: Italy’s national railway, Trenitalia, provides extensive train services covering all major cities and many regional areas. The high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca) are a fast way to travel between major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples.
- Regional Trains: Slower regional trains are more economical and connect smaller towns.
3. Road Travel:
- Buses: Extensive networks operate both within cities and between regions. Buses can be more economical, especially in areas not served by trains.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car is a good option for exploring the countryside, especially in regions like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. Remember, non-EU license holders may need an International Driving Permit.
4. Waterways:
- Ferries: Essential for traveling to islands like Sicily, Sardinia, and the smaller islands of Capri and Ischia. Ferry services are also popular along the Amalfi Coast.
Italian Culture and Etiquette
1. Greetings:
- Italians are warm and expressive. A handshake with eye contact is common for first meetings. Friends often greet each other with a kiss on each cheek.
2. Dress Code:
- Italians take pride in their appearance. Smart casual attire is common in public places. For religious sites, covering shoulders and knees is required. Italian WILL look at you judgingly if you wear athleisure out and about.
3. Dining Etiquette:
- Dining is a leisurely affair. It’s customary to say “Buon appetito” before eating. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; service charges are often included.
What to Expect
1. Language:
- Italian is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but less so in rural parts.
2. Currency:
- The Euro (€) is the currency of Italy. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash, especially in small towns.
3. Climate:
- Italy experiences a varied climate. The north has cold winters and hot summers, while the south enjoys a Mediterranean climate.
4. Connectivity:
- Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and public places. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for longer stays.
Below is my recommended itinerary for any first-timer to Italy:
Rome
Pantheon
Best visited in the middle of the day to catch the dramatic effect of the sunlight streaming through the oculus, illuminating the interior. This ancient temple, now a church, boasts a perfect sphere within a cylinder design that has inspired architects for centuries.
Trevi Fountain
Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds at this Baroque masterpiece, famous for the tradition of throwing coins to ensure a return to Rome. The fountain depicts Neptune’s chariot being led by Tritons with sea horses representing different sea conditions.
Spanish Steps
Located in one of Rome’s most prestigious neighborhoods, these steps are a great place to people-watch or rest after shopping in the surrounding high-end boutiques. They lead up to the beautiful Trinità dei Monti church, offering a picturesque view from the top.
Piazza Navona
This elegant square is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and three fountains designed by Bernini. Originally a stadium built by Emperor Domitian, today it’s a vibrant space where artists gather and cafes line the perimeter.
Campo de Fiori
By day, this square hosts a lively market selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers. By night, it transforms into a bustling social scene with locals and tourists flocking to its many restaurants and bars.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, the building was later transformed into a fortress and castle by the popes. It offers a deep dive into history and panoramic views of Rome from the top.
Vatican City
Visit the epicenter of the Roman Catholic Church, featuring St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and vast Vatican Museums. Highlights include Michelangelo’s ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and the impressive collections of art. I could honestly do a whole series on the Vatican. My personal favorite tours of the Vatican include the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour, the Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s | Small Group, and the almost-private Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St Peter 6 PAX Group.
Catacomb of Santa Priscilla
These ancient catacombs are known for containing some of the earliest Christian art in the world, along with the tombs of many martyrs and popes.
The Colosseum, Palatine Hill, The Roman Forum
Explore ancient Rome in one comprehensive tour that includes these three iconic sites. Learn about the history of the gladiators at the Colosseum, the birth of Rome at Palatine Hill, and the center of Roman public life at the Forum.
Capuchin Bone Church
Visit this small space adorned with the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin monks. Beyond its eerie charm, the church invites visitors to reflect on the passage of life.
Trastevere
This charming neighborhood is known for its narrow cobbled streets lined with ancient houses that today host vibrant restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a favorite evening hangout.
Galleria Borghese
Set within Villa Borghese, this gallery houses a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculpture, and antiquities, started by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century.
Florence
Uffizi Gallery
Home to the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, its hallways are lined with works by Giotto, Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Caravaggio. The gallery’s location along the Arno river adds to its charm and you have a great view of the Ponte Vecchio from the third floow.
Galleria dell’Accademia
Famous for housing Michelangelo’s David, this gallery also displays other works by Michelangelo and a collection of Renaissance paintings.
Piazza del Duomo
This religious center of Florence is dominated by the cathedral, the Campanile, and the Baptistery, with the dome by Brunelleschi being one of the city’s most iconic symbols. You can climb the Duomo at certain times of the day if you secure a ticket in advance!
Ponte Vecchio
Florence’s oldest bridge, known for the shops built along it, has survived floods and wars. Historically, butchers occupied these shops, but today, jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers populate the bridge.
Piazza Michelangelo
Climb the steps to this square for a breathtaking panorama of Florence. It’s especially popular at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
Westin Excelsior Rooftop Bar
Enjoy an evening aperitivo here while overlooking the historic city center. It’s one of the best spots in Florence for a panoramic view accompanied by a luxury experience.
Mercato Centrale
In the heart of Florence, this market offers a range of Tuscan culinary products on the ground floor and a gourmet food court upstairs. You must must MUST get a sandwich from Da Nerbone here.
Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni
Have breakfast with a view at this historic tower, offering one of the most exclusive and picturesque terraces overlooking the Arno.
Santa Croce Cathedral
This is the burial place of some of the most illustrious Italians, such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
Basilica di Santo Spirito
Explore the Basilica di Santo Spirito, located in one of Florence’s most vibrant districts. The church, designed by Brunelleschi, is a masterpiece of Renaissance simplicity. The adjacent square hosts a charming flea market on weekends where you can find local crafts and antiques.
Osteria Santo Spirito
Dine at Osteria Santo Spirito, renowned for its truffle gnocchi and a selection of meats. It’s a fantastic spot in Florence for experiencing high-quality, traditional Italian cuisine in a relaxed, rustic setting.
My favorite Florence tour is the Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse.
Check out these other local tours for Florence on Get Your Guide.
Bologna
Piazza Maggiore and Piazza Nettuno
Visit the heart of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore, surrounded by several significant buildings including Basilica di San Petronio. Nearby, Piazza Nettuno features the impressive Fountain of Neptune, which is a grand example of Mannerist architecture.
Basilica di San Petronio
Explore Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, which dominates Piazza Maggiore. The church offers rooftop tours providing a stunning view over the city, making it a unique way to see Bologna from above.
The Quadrilatero
Stroll through the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s bustling market district. This vibrant area is a great place to sample local delicacies and observe everyday Italian market life, making it ideal for food lovers.
Le Due Torri
Climb the 498 steps of the Asinelli Tower, one of the two iconic towers of Bologna, for panoramic views of the city. Though challenging, the climb rewards you with one of the best views in Bologna.
Cooking Classes
Engage in a cooking class in Bologna, known as the culinary heart of Italy. Options like Vecchia Scuola Bolognese or the Culinary Institute of Bologna offer classes ranging from half-day sessions to full-week courses, where you can learn to make traditional dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù.
Mercato di Mezzo
Visit the historic Mercato di Mezzo for a taste of local life. This covered market offers everything from fresh produce to regional specialties, housed in a charming setting.
Osteria del Sol
Enjoy a meal at Osteria del Sol, known for its authentic Bolognese cuisine. This restaurant is a favorite among locals for its hearty dishes and homey atmosphere.
Venice
Grand Canal
Experience the Grand Canal by a gondola or through a semi-private boat tour for a deeper understanding of Venice’s waterways. This option provides a comprehensive tour with insights from a knowledgeable guide.
The best private boat tours in Venice are Venice by water: private boat tour and this Private One Day Tour of Venice.
Rialto Bridge
Admire the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s architectural icons. From here, enjoy picturesque views of the Grand Canal and explore the bustling Rialto Market nearby.
Piazza San Marco
Visit Piazza San Marco, the principal public square of Venice, known for its stunning architectural ensemble and historical significance. It is home to Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile.
Saint Mark’s Basilica
Explore Saint Mark’s Basilica, a marvel of Byzantine art, with its luxurious gold mosaics and intricate domes. For a comprehensive visit, explore the basilica’s museum and treasury.
Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs
Tour the Doge’s Palace to see where Venice’s history was made. The adjoining Bridge of Sighs offers a poignant glimpse into the past, as prisoners would cross it, taking in their last view of Venice.
Ponte de Chiodo
Discover Ponte de Chiodo, one of the last remaining bridges in Venice without railings, offering a unique and dangerous experience depending on how many aperol spritzes you have had.
The Fondaco dei Tedeschi Rooftop Terrace
Visit the rooftop terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi for a 360-degree view of Venice. Located on top of a luxury shopping center, it combines high fashion with spectacular city views.
Campanile di San Marco
Take the elevator up the Campanile di San Marco for another stunning view of Venice. This bell tower offers one of the highest vantage points in the city.
Burano Island
Make a trip to Burano Island, famous for its lace-making and brightly colored fishermen’s houses. The island also offers glass-blowing demonstrations, showcasing Venice’s rich tradition in glass art.
If I could do it again, I would go on this Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat.
Acqua Alta Libreria
Visit the Acqua Alta Libreria, a unique bookstore known for its creative storage solutions for books, including gondolas and bathtubs. It’s a charming spot that captures the whimsical side of Venice while you are overwhelmed with books.
Jewish Ghetto
Explore the historical Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in the world, to learn about the rich history of Jews in Venice and their
Kat Beyond Borders 