If you’re looking for an Italy itinerary, you’re in for a treat! From ancient cities to endless pizza, pasta, gelato, and wine, your Italy vacation is bound to be one of your all time favorites. My first Italy trip happened while I was studying abroad in Madrid, Spain. On that trip, I absolutely fell in love with Italy and have since been back on several occasions.
Because it’s one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations, I’ve put together this handy Italy itinerary which will make planning your trip a breeze! This itinerary will cover the country’s most iconic destinations and major cities, including Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Venice, Florence and Tuscany, Milan, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, and Sardinia.
This travel guide can be adapted for your time frame and budget, ranging from 10 days to a two-week Italy itinerary or even longer. Read on to explore What to Do in Italy, Where to Stay in Italy, How to Get Around in Italy, and so much more! This guide also includes sections on Italy Off the Beaten Path, Italy Travel Tips and FAQs, and my personal selection of Travel Essentials for your trip to Italy!
I hope this Italy itinerary will inspire your travels and will be an invaluable resource in planning a trip in Italy!
Page Contents
Map of Italy
Also see: Romantic 10-Day Italy Itinerary: From Venice to Lake Como; Amalfi Coast Itinerary; Rome Itinerary; Venice Itinerary; Milan Itinerary; Florence Itinerary
Ready to book your trip to Italy? Check out Skyscanner to find the best deals on flights from your departing destination and take the first step towards an unforgettable Italy vacation!
Rome (2-4 days)
When you think Italy, you think Rome. From the Colosseum to the Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain, this Rome itinerary includes many of the country’s most iconic treasures. If Rome is the first stop on your Italy trip, you won’t be disappointed by a taste of the world’s best pizza, pasta, gelato, and wine. Just be sure to avoid the tourist traps!
Things to Do in Rome
Vatican Museums and Colosseum Tour: The Vatican and the Colosseum are classic Rome and you won’t want to miss them on your trip to Italy! Especially if this is your first trip to the Eternal City, you’ll want to make sure you take a tour of both. There are a lot of solid, inexpensive tour options which will take you through both destinations and you can book them ahead of time. Be sure to show up a few minutes early for your tour and bring a shawl to cover your shoulders and knees when entering the Vatican.
My picks for best Vatican Museums and Colosseum tours: Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican and Colosseum; Rome in One Day: Low Cost Vatican & Colosseum Tours
Villa Borghese Park: I won’t say this is necessarily an off the beaten path destination in Rome, but it likely won’t be on your basic list of touristy things to do. For that reason and so many others, this park is definitely worth exploring. It’s gorgeous and serene with picturesque landscapes, street musicians, and a great view over one of Rome’s central squares. If you have time, the Villa Borghese Park is certainly worth a visit.
Trastevere Neighborhood: Trastevere is one of Rome’s most picturesque and popular neighborhoods, located just outside the city’s Historic Centre. This is the perfect area to wander around, exploring the cobblestoned streets and scenes of typical Roman life, and it’s one of the best places to stay in Rome. Trastevere is a great place to enjoy a bottle of wine and watch street performers singing classic Italian songs. There are lots of cute restaurants, bars, and cafes in the area, and this is one of the best places in the city for nightlife. One of my favorite restaurants located in the heart of this neighborhood is Pimm’s Good restaurant; get the mushroom risotto or the risotto of the day!
Historic Centre: Rome’s Historic Centre or the Centro Storico is the true beating heart of Rome and is a can’t-miss destination on your Italy itinerary! This area is home to the majority of Rome’s significant sites and tourist destinations, including the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Roman Forum, the Campo de’ Fiori, and several others. This is the main city center and where you’ll likely be spending the majority of your time while in Rome. You can cover nearly this entire area on foot, so get a good map and take yourself on a walking tour of the sites!
My picks for best Rome tours: Rome: Street Food Tour with Local Guide; Rome Guided Tours
Where to Stay in Rome
My picks for where to stay in Rome: Sonata; Funny Palace Rome; Spanish Hill Luxury Apartment
If you’re only visiting Rome for a short time, I would recommend choosing a hotel or hostel in the Trastevere neighborhood, in the Historic Centre, or near the Vatican, as these are some of the best places to stay in Rome. Where you stay will largely depend on what you want to do, but any of these three main areas are great and it’s a relatively easy city to navigate and get around in.
How to Get Around in Rome
You have lots of options for getting around in Rome. My preferred method of exploring the city is honestly just to walk! It’s the best way to take in the sites and get your bearings at the same time. If you can’t (or don’t feel like) exploring on foot, you can also take public transportation, which includes the metro, tram, and bus, which are all cheap, relatively easy to navigate, and you can use the same public transit ticket for all of them. If you’re not on a tight budget or want to get somewhere fast, taxis or Uber will be your best bet.
Ready to book? Book your flight to Rome HERE!
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast (4-5 days)
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most beautiful regions and shouldn’t be overlooked when planning a trip in Italy! Made up of colorful seaside towns situated along sprawling cliffs, the Amalfi Coast makes for a relaxing vacation of eating, drinking, beaching, and taking in magnificent views. There are lots of towns to explore in this area, and you’ll want to spend your days bouncing around to each of them.
Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast
Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii: Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii are two of this region’s most iconic historical sites. If you’re interested in checking them out, you can easily head there on a day trip or even a half day trip, on a tour or by yourself. You can get there easily from Naples, Sorrento, or really from any of the towns along the coast via bus or private shuttle.
My picks for best Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii tours: Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Day Tours; From Naples: Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour
Town Hopping: The main draw of the Amalfi Coast are the gorgeous small towns situated all along the coast. You’ll want to pick a town to situate yourself in, my personal favorites are Sorrento and Positano, and then choose a different town to explore every day from your home base. Some of the other charming and picturesque towns include Ravello, Amalfi, Praiano, and Vietri sul Mare. There are busses that have several departure times throughout the day that leave from each of these towns and drive to and from the others, making day trips incredibly easy and convenient. Things to do in each town consist of relaxing at the beach and eating, pasta, pizza, seafood, and gelato and drinking wine at the dreamy restaurants and cafes while you take in stunning views over the water. You’ll spend plenty of time wandering through the winding streets and enjoying the authentic Italian coastal town vibes, too. *Note: in Positano, be sure to get a lemon granita (a lemon slushie) from one of the street vendors. The Amalfi Coast is known for its lemons and these are absolutely delicious and refreshing on a hot summer day!
My picks for best Amalfi Coast tours: Private Tour: Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello Day Trip from Naples; Sorrento Small-Group Food Walking Tour; Pompeii, Amalfi and Ravello – Day Trip from Naples
Capri: Another can’t-miss destination on your Amalfi Coast itinerary is the island of Capri. Capri beaches are renowned for their charm and crystal clear waters, and you’ll want to spend at least a day exploring the island. Get there via ferry from the Naples or Sorrento ports and spend the day at the beach, renting a boat, wandering through the streets, and taking the funicular up to Anacapri, a town at the top of the island which offers fantastic views of all that lies below. Note that the beaches on Capri are rocky, but the water is shockingly blue and beautiful.
My picks for best Capri tours: Capri and Blue Grotto Day Tour from Naples or Sorrento; Small-Group Capri Cruise from the Amalfi Coast
Where to Stay in the Amalfi Coast
My picks for where to stay in the Amalfi Coast: Casa Guadagno; Seven Hostel
To make your Italy trip as smooth as possible, I would recommend picking one of the towns as a home base and exploring the rest of the coast from there. Positano is a great town to use as a base, but you’ll need to book it far in advance and it’s one of the more expensive towns, due to its popularity with tourists.
I’ve found that Sorrento is one of the best places to stay in the Amalfi Coast, as it’s one of the larger towns and has the most to do. If Sorrento is too expensive or you’re looking to stay somewhere a bit more off the beaten path, Sant’Agnello is a cheaper and quieter option, and it’s just a quick train ride from Sorrento.
That said, you can really stay in any of the towns along the coast, as buses to and from them are frequent and inexpensive. I will say, DON’T stay in Naples during your trip to the Amalfi Coast. Naples is a big, dirty city and it’s a pain to get out to the rest of the towns from there, so you’ll only need to pass through it once on your way along the coast.
How to Get Around in the Amalfi Coast
Once you arrive on the Amalfi Coast, you can take public busses from town to town. They are inexpensive and run several times throughout the day. You can also hire a private car or taxi to take you, but it’s much more expensive. Within each town, the best way to get around is on foot. If you’re headed out to Capri, you can catch the ferry from Naples or Sorrento, and once there, roam around on foot, via funicular, or by taxi.
How to Get to the Amalfi Coast
It can be a bit complicated to get to the Amalfi Coast from the rest of Italy, but it’s not unmanageable. You’ll first need to arrive in Naples, which you can access by flying, bus, train, or ferry. From Naples, you’ll need to make your way along the coast to the town of your choosing. The best way to get there from Naples will be by train, though beware of train strikes affecting timetables.
A more direct way to get from Naples to the coast would be to hire a private car or buy a ticket online for a shared shuttle bus, which is more expensive but ultimately less of a hassle. No matter how you get there you’ll be glad you did because the Amalfi Coast might just end up being your favorite stop on your Italy vacation!
Ready to book? Book your flight to the Amalfi Coast HERE!
Venice Canals
Venice (1-2 days)
Venice is definitely one of Italy’s most iconic cities. However, be wary of adding this city laden with picturesque canals to your Italy itinerary. For the past few years, Venice has suffered significantly from overtourism, which has driven up the cost of living and harmed the city’s fragile infrastructure. Everyone is hopeful that in the future, Venice will be able to get this overcrowding under control and traveling to this fantastic city will be encouraged once again. When that does happen, you’ll want to know the basics before you visit Venice.
Things to Do in Venice
Venetian Glass Blowing: Take a short ferry ride to the islands of Murano and Burano and wander through the various shops to see traditional glass blowing and purchase souvenirs like glass beads, mirrors, and other unique trinkets.
Wander Through the Charming Streets: Head out on foot through the picturesque streets of Venice. Be sure to visit the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, the Palazzo Ducale, and St. Mark’s Basilica, which are a few of the major landmarks. Take a walking tour or just lose yourself in this dreamy setting. In the evening, see an Italian opera at the famed Teatro La Fenice.
My picks for best Venice tours: Legendary Venice St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace; Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour; Musica a Palazzo ‘Traveling Opera’ Performance in Venice
Gondola Ride: Taking a gondola ride through Venice’s many canals is one of the city’s most classic activities. A private ride can be a little pricey, but it’s worth it to see the city from a unique and traditional perspective.
Where to Stay in Venice
My picks for where to stay in Venice: Hotel Casanova; Casa Mimma; H10 Palazzo Canova; MyPlace San Marco Apartments
The Rialto Bridge area is one of the best places to stay in Venice, due to its liveliness and abundance of cute restaurants and shops. If you have the budget for it, staying around the Grand Canal will also offer you a luxurious vacation in a great location. Finally, staying around Piazza San Marco is another solid option, as it’s in the center of all the action. No matter where you stay, Venice is sure to be a highlight on your Italy vacation.
How to Get Around in Venice
The only way to get around Venice is on foot or by water. There are lots of vaporetto boats, or water busses, that are affordable and can take you wherever you’re headed. There are a variety of water taxi options to take as well.
Ready to book? Book your flight to Venice HERE!
Tuscany, Italy
Florence & Tuscany (3-5 days)
Florence and Tuscany are easily my favorite regions of Italy and should occupy AT LEAST 3-5 days on your Italy itinerary. For me, it’s the most picturesque of any Italian destination, and Florence is only a short ride away from the rolling hills and lush wine country of Tuscany. With endless things to do and explore, Florence and Tuscany are sure to be high points on your Italy vacation.
Things to Do in Florence
There are endless things to experience in Florence, from hunting down late night secret bakeries to losing yourself in the chaos of the Ponte Vecchio. Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Florence.
Tuscany: Just a short ride outside the city is Tuscany, a peaceful and serene countryside characterized by rolling hills, rustic farmhouses, and centuries old vineyards and olive groves. Whether you head out there for a half day, a whole day, or spend a few nights, this is one place that shouldn’t be overlooked on your trip to Italy. I recommend booking your Tuscany tours ahead of time. Some of my favorite Tuscany tours take you through the countryside’s smaller towns, and include wine and olive oil tasting, Tuscany bike tours, and Tuscany cooking classes.
My picks for best Tuscany tours: Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence; Taste of Chianti: Tuscan Cheese, Wine and Lunch from Florence; Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Tuscan Farmhouse from Florence
Uffizi Gallery: If art and history are your thing, you absolutely cannot miss Florence’s renowned Uffizi Gallery. One of the world’s top art galleries, the Uffizi holds important works from the Renaissance, including pieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and more. Note that the gallery is CLOSED ON MONDAYS!! You’ll also want to buy a ticket online ahead of time for discounts and to skip the line. There are also plenty of great Uffizi Gallery tours to choose from!
Ponte Vecchio: The bridges that cross over Florence’s Arno River are arguably the city’s most iconic traits. The most famous of these bridges is the Ponte Vecchio, renowned for its segment of vendor booths selling art and souvenirs. Be sure to take in the view from the bridges and maybe snap a picture or two. The Ponte Vecchio is typically included on most Florence tours.
My picks for best Florence tours: Best of Florence Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line at Michelangelo’s ‘David’; Florence Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Piazzale Michelangelo: This is one of my all time favorite places in Florence and should definitely make it into your Florence itinerary! Climb the stairs to the top of the Piazzale Michelangelo just before sunset to soak in marvelous views and watch the sun sink below the vast expanse of the city below. Enjoy a picnic with wine, live music from street musicians, and overall good vibes. Sunset can get pretty touristy, so consider a sunrise trek instead or head up there earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.
View from Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence
Duomo: The Duomo is the true city center and heart of Florence, as in most Italian cities. That said, Florence’s Duomo is pretty spectacular. Take a tour of the cathedral and check out the bustling plaza surrounding it. This is a great place to grab some gelato and it’s centrally located so you’ll be close to the city’s major sites, including the Uffizi Gallery.
Michelangelo’s ‘David’: You can’t go to Florence without visiting the incredible David, sculpted by Michelangelo. Prepare to be awed by its sheer magnificence; it’s sure to be a cherished memory from your Italy trip. David is located in the Accademia Gallery, which is CLOSED ON MONDAYS!!! Don’t make the same mistake I did by trying to visit on a Monday and not booking a ticket ahead of time! I would recommend buying a VIP ticket online to avoid long lines and ensure your entry.
Leather Market and Central Market: These two markets are right next to each other in the heart of Florence and are both fun and interesting in their own right. Stroll through the endless rows of vendors selling genuine leather products and pick up a few souvenirs to commemorate your trip to Italy! Once you’ve had your fill, head to the Central Market for lunch on the top level. There you’ll find tons of vendor booths selling all manner of gourmet cuisine, both Italian and international. On the bottom level of the Central Market, you can purchase anything from flowers to regional spices. Checking out these two markets is a great way to spend an afternoon in Florence!
Santo Spirito Neighborhood: This neighborhood is located on the other side of the Ponte Vecchio from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Florence. For that reason, it’s a little more authentic, a little less touristy, and a little less expensive. This is a fun neighborhood to explore and will give you a good taste of typical life in Florence. There are some cute plazas and wonderful restaurants in this area, too, which make it one of the best areas to stay in Florence.
Nightlife: Florence is known for exciting nightlife, from massive clubs to chill bars, so you should definitely plan for a night out on the town while you’re in the city. Grab an Aperol Spritz at one of Florence’s many rooftop terrace bars, like La Terrazza or The Westin Excelsior, and in the deepest hours of the night, head out on a hunt for the city’s infamous secret bakeries, locations of which you’ll need to discover on your own!
Boboli Gardens: The Boboli Gardens are often overlooked on basic tours of Florence, but they are definitely worth a visit if you have the time. These beautiful and serene gardens were designed for the notorious Medici family and are steeped in Italian history. If you’d like a tour or want to skip the line, I would recommend booking your ticket online ahead of time.
Shopping and Fun Tourist Classes: Florence is a great place to do some serious shopping, regardless of your budget. The most famous shopping street in Florence is Via de’ Tornabuoni, where you’ll find high fashion shops and boutiques from top designers, but other locations have plenty of more mainstream shops to choose from, too. You might also consider taking some fun Florence tours and classes, like pasta and pizza and gelato making classes while sipping on a classic Italian Aperol Spritz.
Where to Stay in Florence
My picks for where to stay in Florence: Hotel Monna Lisa; Archi Rossi Hostel
You have several different options for where to stay in Florence. The best areas to stay in Florence for first time visitors are near the Duomo or near the Ponte Vecchio. These areas are close to the action, and if you have limited time, it’ll be easiest to see and do everything you want from these locations.
If you have a bit more time or if you’re on a tighter budget, consider staying in the Santo Spirito neighborhood. This area is located just on the other side of the Ponte Vecchio so it’s still relatively close to everything and has its own distinct feel.
How to Get Around in Florence
Walking is your best option for getting around in Florence, and you can cover a lot of ground in a short time as the city isn’t really that big. It’s also worth the walk because Florence is incredibly beautiful and you’ll want to burn off all the pizza and gelato! If you need to get somewhere quick, you’ll have no problem catching a taxi.
BONUS: Where to Eat in Florence
Here are some great recommendations for where to eat in Florence. Amazing food will amplify your Italy vacation tenfold! Be sure to make dinner reservations for most restaurants, especially during the summer which is peak tourist season.
Lunch
Central Market: Great for lunch, dinner, or a snack. Be sure to get dumplings, pizza, and gelato here
Antico Vinaio: A casual lunch place with awesome paninis. If this spot is too crowded, check out Antico Noe or Panini Toscany instead
Trattoria 4 Leoni: Get the pasta!
Pizza Napoli: Great pizza
Dinner
Gustapizza: Iconic pizzeria in Florence
Osteria Santo Spirito: Great restaurant in Santo Spirito plaza with a nice atmosphere. Get the gnocchi!
Trattoria ZaZa: Awesome spot for lunch or dinner
Gelato
Ready to book? Book your flight to Florence HERE!
Milan (1-2 days)
Milan is one of the world’s most prominent capitals for fashion and design and is one of Italy’s major cities. Home to a plethora of Michelin starred restaurants, the world’s oldest shopping mall, and astounding art, history, and culture, check out this Milan itinerary to get a perfect feel for the city. You won’t need to spend more than a couple of days here, as there are endless things to do on your Italy vacation!
Things to Do in Milan
Shopping: Milan is home to some of the world’s best shopping, from high-end designers to classic name brand stores. Don’t forget to stop into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest shopping mall in the world!
Historic and Cultural Sites: You can’t miss the splendid Milan Duomo located in the Piazza del Duomo. Check out the Castello Sforzesco and stop into the Pinacoteca di Brera fine art gallery. Head to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie to view Leonardo da Vinci’s world famous mural, The Last Supper, a can’t-miss on your Italy trip!
My picks for best Milan tours: Best of Milan Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line to Duomo & ‘Last Supper’; Historic Milan Tour with Skip-the-Line Last Supper Ticket
Eating/Drinking/Nightlife: Milan’s trendy and bohemian Brera district is a great place to spend a night on the town, and is brimming with chic bars and restaurants. The area around the Naviglio Grande canal is also a great place for a stroll and to stop into the shops, cafes, and restaurants in the city. *Note: if you head around the backside of the Duomo, there are a bunch of really great, authentic pizza places that are amazing and super local.
Consider a day trip to Lake Como: If you have a bit of extra time on your hands, you should definitely pop over to Lake Como from Milan! Just half an hour away by train, this is a quick and easy way to get even more out of your Italy vacation.
Where to Stay in Milan
My picks for where to stay in Milan: Rosa Grand Milano – Starhotels Collezione; Ostello Bello; House Aramis Aparthotel; Charming Milan Apartments Brera – Madonnina
The best areas to stay in Milan will be around the Piazza del Duomo, which is the city center; in the Brera neighborhood, a trendy bohemian area with top shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, located close to the city’s major sites; or around the Navigli District, which has great nightlife and cute shops and restaurants.
The city is very easy to navigate and you’ll have a lot of options for public transportation and taxis. You’ll never be too far from anywhere you’re trying to go if you stick to these three locations for lodging.
How to Get Around in Milan
Much of Milan is very walkable, though there are plenty of options for cheap and easy public transportation. Milan’s extensive ATM system consists of subway, busses, and trams and will take you wherever you need to go. Metered taxis and Uber are also widely available in the city, which will help you navigate this leg of your trip to Italy with ease.
Ready to book? Book your flight to Milan HERE!
Visiting Italian friends in Milan
Italy Off the Beaten Path
From north to south, Italy is jam packed with incredible things to do and discover. If you have a bit more time to spend in Italy or are simply looking for some lesser-explored destinations to spice up your Italy itinerary, check out my recommendations for Italy off the beaten path!
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre (3-5 days)
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s finest hidden treasures and shouldn’t be overlooked when planning a trip in Italy! Located off the northwest coast of Italy, Cinque Terre offers a similar feel to the Amalfi Coast. Made up of 5 colorful cliffside towns, this region will be a great addition to your Italy vacation.
Things to Do in Cinque Terre
Explore the Towns: Cinque Terre’s five coastal villages, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso, each have something unique to offer. Spend your vacation meandering through their picture perfect streets and taking in stunning views of the landscape. In each town there are an abundance of shops, restaurants, gelaterias, and cafes as well as stunning churches and cathedrals waiting to be explored.
Hiking the Cinque Terre Footpaths: The trails that connect Cinque Terre’s five towns are some of the region’s most unique features, and it’s no secret why hiking the footpaths is among the area’s most popular activities. If you’re up for it, head to the Manarola Scenic Viewpoint for an incredible view of Cinque Terre. Don’t forget to check online for sporadic trail closures before you go! Click here for scenic tours of Manarola, Italy and Cinque Terre villages.
Head to the Beach: The Stella Marina Beach in Monterosso is a great place to swim and soak up the sun. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset with a bottle of wine and some fresh seafood!
Cinque Terre Boat Tour: One of the most unique ways to explore this area is by boat. Consider renting your own for the day or heading out on a sunset boat tour to experience Cinque Terre by water.
Tour Cinque Terre’s Wineries and Vineyards: Cinque Terre is home to exceptional wineries and breathtaking vineyards. When planning a trip in Italy, I recommend choosing a small group wine tour which will allow you a more intimate experience when exploring this lush wine region.
My picks for best Cinque Terre tours: Cinque Terre Pesto Making Class, Boat Tour and Lunch; Cinque Terre Sailing Day Trip from La Spezia
Cinque Terre, Italy
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
My picks for where to stay in Cinque Terre: Stella Della Marina; **
If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Cinque Terre, I would recommend choosing one town as a home base and exploring the other towns from there. Monterosso is among the most popular villages to stay in because there are a wide range of accommodations and it’s right on the beach. Vernazza is another popular place to stay as it’s widely regarded as the most picturesque of the towns, and Corniglia is the quietest of the five as it’s the hardest town to access.
How to Get Around in Cinque Terre
The best (and only) ways to get around in Cinque Terre are to walk or take the train between the five towns. Weather permitting, you may be able to take tourist ferries between the towns as well. If you’re not up for a hike, the train is quick and inexpensive.
Ready to book? Book your flight to Cinque Terre HERE!
Lake Como (3-5 days)
Set in Northern Italy against the backdrop of the Alps, Lake Como is home to the luxurious villas of stars like George Clooney. From the winding streets of Bellagio to the charming pastel facade of Varenna, Lake Como is one of the most scenic destinations in the world. One of Italy’s off the beaten path destinations, Lake Como will take your Italy vacation to the next level. Prepare to be captivated by the deep blue waters of the glacial lake and the enchanting towns that abound it. Lake Como should definitely be a focal point of your Italy itinerary!
Things to Do in Lake Como
Explore the Towns: Lake Como is shaped like a Y and there are a variety of picturesque towns all along its banks. Take the ferry or a water taxi to and from the various towns to explore all that this stunning destination has to offer. Some of Lake Como’s most popular towns include Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Como, and Lecco. Eat, drink, and wander through the towns, enjoying the galleries, shops, museums, and villas unique to each location.
Relax!: Relax by the water, take a dip in the lake, rent a boat or kayak, and take in spectacular views of the landscape. The best things to do in Lake Como are meander through the towns, read, write, eat, drink, and just chill, honestly. Enjoy the company of your travel companions and simply be present in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
Villas and Historic Sites: Several of Lake Como’s towns are home to lavish villas and historic cathedrals and museums. The Duomo in the town of Como is one of the most exquisite cathedrals in the area, Bellagio has a notable winery, and the many gorgeous Lake Como villas can be reached by boat or by trekking.
Lake Como Tours: If you’re spending a lot of time in Lake Como and are looking for interesting things to do, you can take food tours, walking tours, cooking classes, rent a boat, and more. There are even some great day trip tours to Lake Como from Milan which will give you a taste of this unique location and won’t break your bank.
My picks for best Lake Como tours: Lake Como Kayak Tour from Bellagio; Villa Balbianello and Flavors of Lake Como Walking and Boating Full-Day Tour
Where to Stay in Lake Como
My picks for where to stay in Lake Como: Il Sogno Deluxe Bellagio; Lake Como Hostel La Primula; **
You have several options when looking for the best place to stay in Lake Como. If you don’t have a ton of time and want to get a good feel for what Lake Como is all about, I would recommend staying in Varenna. Varenna is the easiest place to stay because it’s the only town in Lake Como with a train station with direct routes from Milan, so once you arrive via train you won’t have to then take a ferry to your final destination. This will save you time both at the beginning and end of your trip. Varenna is a cute town with a lot of character and it’s a good home base for visiting the other towns.
However, if you have a bit more time, several of the other towns in the area are also great options. Personally, I think Bellagio is the best place to stay in Lake Como. It’s the most famous town on the lake, and for good reason. It’s beautiful and charming, but can be a bit expensive. Como is a larger town but it’s not as well situated as Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio, or some of the others. Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll be glad you visited Lake Como on your trip to Italy!
How to Get Around in Lake Como
Once you’ve arrived at your Lake Como accommodation, the best way to get around in any of the towns is on foot. If you want to travel from town to town, there are frequent ferries and water taxis that are easy to navigate and are relatively low cost. Alternatively, you can take busses and trains, but they are less direct and typically take much longer.
How to Get to Lake Como
To get to Lake Como, you’ll need to take the train from Milan. Just a half an hour away by train, this will be the easiest and quickest way to get there. Depending on which town you’re planning to visit, you’ll need to take the train to the closest station and then take a ferry to the town itself. Lake Como and Milan are situated so close to one another that you could even work a quick day trip into your Italy itinerary.
Ready to book? Book your flight to Lake Como HERE!
Sardinia (4-5 days)
An island off Italy’s western coast, Sardinia is home to stunning beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, making it the perfect destination for your Italy vacation. Brimming with history and ancient ruins, this island is so much more than a luxurious Italian getaway. From medieval streets to magnificent views, Sardinia is one of Italy’s off the beaten path destinations you won’t want to miss.
Things to Do in Sardinia
Head to the Beach: Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, meaning emerald waters, has made the island famous as one of the world’s most beautiful coasts. Soak up the sun, swim in the brilliantly clear waters, and enjoy your Italy vacation!
Visit Ancient Ruins: Sardinia is rich with age-old folk cultures and is home to a multitude of ancient ruins. Discover this island’s fascinating history and culture on a half-day tour.
Discover Unique Sardinian Cuisine: Because Sardinia is physically separated from the rest of Italy, its culture and cuisine are different from that of the mainland. The island’s culture is rooted in thousands of years of its own distinct traditions and practices, resulting in cuisine that is deliciously its own, one of the many ways Sardinia allows you to experience Italy off the beaten path.
Explore the Capital City of Cagliari: If you want to experience more than just the beautiful Sardinia beaches, head to Cagliari to discover cathedrals, ancient ruins, medieval streets, and incredible views over the island. Stroll through the streets of the Castello quarter and find yourself transported backwards through time.
Experience Sardinia by Water: A great way to explore the island is to rent a boat or to take a boat tour. You’ll spend the day out on the water where you’ll take in Sardinia from a totally new perspective.
My picks for best Sardinia tours: Half Day Sea Kayak Trip; Mountains And Beaches 4×4; La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau
Where to Stay in Sardinia
My picks for where to stay in Sardinia: Hotel Baia Di Nora; Ciro’s House
If you’re headed to the infamous Costa Smeralda, be prepared to pay! You’ll stay in the town of Porto Cervo, which is one of the most luxurious and expensive destinations in Europe. If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Sardinia that are equally beautiful and more budget friendly, stay along the coast south of Olbia in Costa Rei or west of Cagliari, in the town of Chia.
How to Get Around in Sardinia
The best and most convenient way to get around Sardinia is by car. Consider renting a car during your stay, as it’ll allow you the most access to every part of the island and will help your trip to Italy run much more smoothly. Public transportation, including busses and trains, are inexpensive but are largely unreliable and aren’t available in every destination.
Ready to book? Book your flight to Sardinia HERE!
Of course, there are plenty of other destinations worth adding to your Italy itinerary, some of which include Pisa, the Dolomites, and Sicily, just to name a few. I would recommend spending as much time as you can in Italy, and though it’s the most crowded and touristy during the summer months, that’s also when it’s at its most beautiful. A lovely place to explore year round, you’ll surely want to return to Italy again and again. Enjoy your trip, arrivederci!
Read on for more Italy Travel Tips and help with planning a trip in Italy!
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Italy Power Adapter: DON’T FORGET YOUR ITALY POWER ADAPTER! This is one thing you’ll want to make sure you have before you head to Italy or leave your home country in general.
Charles Schwab Debit Card: I NEVER travel internationally without this card! Use it at restaurants, shops, or to take out cash and avoid all the expensive international transaction fees, which seriously add up. It can be used at any ATM and keeps you feeling secure knowing you can take out cash anywhere in Italy, anytime you need to. *Tip: Click here to make up to $500 when you make a qualifying deposit into your new Charles Schwab account!
Check out my Recommended Travel Essentials page for more useful resources you shouldn’t travel without!
Ready to book your flight to Italy? Click HERE to explore the best flight prices and deals on Skyscanner!
Tuscany, Italy
Italy Tips and FAQs
What currency does Italy use?
Italy uses the Euro. Most places in Italy will accept credit cards, but you’ll always want to have some cash on hand for things like taxis and smaller vendors during your trip to Italy.
Can you drink tap water in Italy?
Yes, it is completely safe to drink tap water in Italy. That said, you may still have to pay for water at restaurants on your Italy vacation which we’re not used to doing in the United States, so heads up! Also, if you eat or drink something that doesn’t agree with you or if you feel yourself becoming exhausted, be sure to bring these handy electrolyte packets to add to your water and help rehydrate you (also great for curing wine hangovers!).
Is Italy Safe?
Yes, Italy is a relatively safe country and as a tourist you are not likely to encounter any serious crime. That said, be sure to keep your wits about you and avoid doing things like walking alone at night. Pickpocketing and petty theft tend to be common, especially in touristy areas, so you’ll want to keep your belongings tucked securely away in public.
Other basic travel safety tips include bringing a TSA approved combination lock to secure your luggage or use with a safe or locker in your accommodation. Always travel with an external battery charger to avoid getting stuck if your smartphone dies. Finally, consider bringing a physical journal and pen to write down the address where you’re staying and any other important information to keep on you at all times.
What is the best way to get around Italy?
Italy has an extensive train system that can take you quickly and relatively cheaply to cities throughout the country. In my experience, traveling by train in Italy is definitely the best way to get around! That said, flights between cities are widely available and may save you some time if you need to cover a large distance during your Italy trip. Whether you’re flying or taking the train, you won’t want to forget a travel neck pillow, luggage tags, and a TSA approved toiletry case to help you travel Italy with ease.
Do you need a visa or any vaccines to visit Italy from the US?
As long as your passport is valid for at least 3 months after you return, you do NOT need a visa to visit Italy from the US. You can stay in Italy for 90 days with your regular US passport.
Typically if you are up to date with your regular vaccines, you will not need any additional vaccines to visit Italy. However, to determine whether you personally will need any special vaccines to visit Italy from the US, check out Passport Health.
What are some useful Italy travel tips?
A few basic travel tips for Italy are as follows:
- In Italy, locals tend to greet each other with two kisses instead of a handshake.
- Be prepared to eat dinner much later than we do in the US!
- A quick dry microfiber travel towel will come in handy during your trip to Italy! Whether you use it as a bath towel, beach towel, or just to cool off in Italy’s intense summer heat, this compact, lightweight towel will be a godsend.
- Don’t forget to VALIDATE your train ticket at the station before you try to use it.
- Bring a shawl or sarong with you on your Italy trip. From covering up your shoulders when entering a church to hanging up for privacy in your shared accommodation to a swimsuit cover up in the Amalfi Coast, a sarong is a super versatile item you’ll use again and again during your Italy vacation!
- Avoid exchanging your money at a Currency Exchange and instead take cash out of the ATM directly to ensure the best rate. You’ll want to have your handy Charles Schwab debit card to avoid transaction fees and make sure this goes smoothly!
Is there anything I should avoid in Italy?
Train strikes in Italy are quite common, so be wary of that when booking your train tickets. You’ll want to be sure you’re super flexible with timing as well if you plan to take the train.
Enjoying dinner with my siblings in Lake Como
Traveling Alone or Want to Join an Italy Tour?
Check out Intrepid Italy Tours! They do a great job and will give you the true local experience to make your Italy vacation unforgettable. Intrepid is my favorite tour company because they promote local, sustainable travel, they’re affordable, they go all over the world, and honestly they offer a great trip. I went on an Intrepid tour to India where I was welcomed into the homes of locals, learned to cook traditional Indian meals, and experienced the country in a safe and unique way. It was the absolute time of my life! If you want to explore Italy in a more organized setting, one of these awesome Intrepid Italy Tours are definitely for you!
*Please note that some of the above are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I make a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. Please know that I ONLY recommend products that I personally use or believe to be helpful to other travelers.