The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary For You

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From its ancient Roman ruins to the sprawling vineyards that seem to go on forever to hiking in Cinque Terre, Italy has an allure that makes it a dream destination for many, myself included.  That’s probably why it is on many people’s Europe Bucket Lists.

Italy is a magical land filled with fascinating history, passionate people, and fantastic food, some of the many reasons that so many Italian experiences are on our couple’s bucket list.  Serve all that with some incredible Italian wine, and you have an awesome setting for the perfect 10-day Italy itinerary!

Spending 10 days in Italy is a perfect amount of time to be introduced to what this great country offers.  Honestly, you won’t get to see everything in 10 days in Italy, so don’t even try when planning a trip here.   This will only stress you out; besides, everyone I know who has visited always returns.

Of course, there are certain things you should know when traveling to Italy for the first Italy vacation, so after checking those out, then don’t be afraid to make the Italy itinerary your own, cut a day here and add a day there as needed, but I recommend not including more than three hotel changes during your stay. 

Remember that every time you change cities and hotels, you lose approximately half a day of sightseeing, so be cautious of that while planning a trip.

If you have more than 10 days in Italy, you might want to head to the best places in The Dolomites at the end of your trip.  Of course, 2 days in Milan or some time exploring the Italian lake region are other terrific options!

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How Many Days to Spend in Italy?

How many days should you schedule on your Italy vacation? Um…forever!!  Well, at least that would be my answer if I had the choice, especially if I could live on the island of Capri!  Seriously, Italy is one of those places that will steal your heart so I don’t know if there is ever enough time here.

For our first trip to Italy, we spent over three weeks.  I know this is unrealistic for everyone, as most Americans average about two weeks of paid vacation a year.  We made this 10-day in Italy itinerary to help you plan your Italy vacation. 

This will allow you to have a great introduction to the country and not have to go at too fast of a pace during your trip to Italy.

Planning Your 10 Days In Italy Itinerary

There is a lot that goes into planning a trip overseas, especially a trip to Italy.  We also understand how stressful this process can be.  You can easily follow our 10 days in Italy itinerary or choose to develop your own by adding to or taking away from our suggestions. 

If you have extra time, I recommend adding some of Italy’s off-the-beaten-track destinations, like Castelluccio or Matera, to your Italy vacation.

Of course, you can also go your own way and plan a completely different Italian itinerary if you choose to do so.  The options are endless when planning your trip to Italy!

We have visited Italy several times.  Somehow I keep convincing Marty to go back and add it to every trip we take to Europe.  I wonder if he has noticed yet?! 

No matter what you choose, once you have decided on the best 10-day Italy itinerary for you, then be sure to research the area to ensure that you get to see and do all that you are hoping for.

Use the large towns we mention in this Italy itinerary to make your home base, but take time to see the small towns in Europe.

When is the Best Time to Visit Italy?

Anytime!  It’s Italy! 😉

No, seriously, when is the best time to visit Italy? This can be a tricky question.  It’s always hard to answer this, in my opinion. 

It all depends on what you like and the expectations of your Italy vacation, so really, only you can decide the best time to plan your trip to Italy.  We can provide you with the following information to help you decide, though!

Summer in Italy can be hot, crowded, and more expensive as it is the most popular and a great time to visit the Cinque Terre. 

So if you want to spend time in the big cities, as our Italy travel itinerary suggests, you may consider taking your trip to Italy in the shoulder season instead. 

The shoulder season in Italy is April-May and September-October.  During this time, the temperatures and fewer tourists are mild. This helps prices decrease and might make for a more enjoyable experience.

Transportation Options in Italy

One of the many things that I love about Italy, well, all of Europe, is the ease of travel. 

Train travel between cities and even between countries is easy to travel.  It is relaxing, efficient, and economical. 

Please follow our tips mentioned below when traveling by train to Italy.  You don’t want to mess up and have to pay a fine while on vacation!

If you are not following our 10-day Italy itinerary, research the chosen areas, as some will require you to rent a car.  For example, if you are traveling to the northern mountains, you will be better served by having a car.

Top Tips for Your 10-Day Italy Itinerary

Of course, your 10 days in Italy itinerary has to include time in Rome, especially if it is your first trip to Italy. You know, there are many things that you need to know before visiting Rome.  Here are just a few:

• Be sure and validate your train tickets at the train station!
• The euro is the currency used in Italy. Save yourself on exchange fees by researching “sister” banks to yours and withdrawing money from the ATM instead of using a currency exchange.
• Talk to the locals and take their advice on where to eat and local things to do.
• Remember that most restaurants and businesses close in the afternoon/early evening.  Plan your meals accordingly.
• Learn some essential words in Italian and use them while there.
• Relax and enjoy your trip to Italy!

10 Days in Italy Itinerary

Italy Itinerary Day 1:  Fly into Rome

Getting from Fiumicino Airport to Rome

Rome has two airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino.  Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci Airport) is not only the international airport in Rome, but it is the largest.  To get into the city, you can take a train, shuttle bus, taxi, or private transfer, or rent a car (although I wouldn’t advise doing this in Rome).

Train

The Leonardo Express is a direct train that connects the Fiumicino airport with Rome’s Termini train station.  The trip takes about 30 minutes, and tickets cost 14 euros each way. Take the train to the central Termini station, and then take the city Metro or bus to your hotel. (Don’t forget to validate your train tickets!

If you want to save money, take the regional train instead.  The Regional FL1 train connects the airport with other stations in Rome, but not the Termini.  Tickets for the regional train cost 8 euros. We prefer to take the train from the airport as it is efficient and easy.

Shuttle Bus

The cheapest way to travel between the airport and Rome is to take the shuttle bus.  The shuttle bus stops at the Termini and the Pizaaz Cavour, near the Vatican Museums. 

Although this is the cheapest option, it is also a prolonged option in comparison.  The trip on the shuttle bus takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Tickets cost 6 euros one way.

Taxi

For a fixed price of 48 euros each way, you can take a taxi.  If choosing this option, be sure you use the official taxi services.

Private Transfer

We usually choose a private transfer as it is quick and convenient.  You can book your service online before you leave home; the driver will be waiting for you when you arrive.  Now that’s service!

Where to Stay in Rome

When choosing where to stay in Rome, the location is critical.  Booking a good place centrally located and close to the sights you are interested in will save you valuable days in Rome. 

Of course, research and find the area that works best for you. We always love visiting Tripadvisor to read reviews and research new cities before we visit.

Hassler Roma 

Hassler Roma is in a great location, right in the heart of the action.  Located at the top of the Spanish Steps, Hassler Roma gives you easy access to several must-see sights, comfortable rooms, and a yummy breakfast.

Baglioni Hotel Regina 

Baglioni Hotel Regina is within a one-mile walk of the Spanish Steps, The Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.  The hotel offers a spa, fitness center, and a Turkish bath right on sight. With friendly staff and extra amenities, this hotel is a sure win.

Hotel Artemide

Hotel Artemide is a luxurious hotel to make your home away from home while in Rome.  With soundproof rooms, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary in-room wifi, Hotel Artemide is top-notch.  Guests can indulge in the buffet breakfast, the full-service spa, or sip a drink on the terrace.

Check Prices on Booking.com                    Check Prices on Hotels.com

Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps

Get a good feel for your surroundings to start your itinerary for 10 days and your days in Rome. Take time to explore the neighborhood around your hotel. 

This is the perfect day in Rome! I mean, there is a reason that it is on everyone’s Europe Bucket List!

Grab your first authentic Italian meal before heading for the sights for today.  And by authentic Italian meal, I mean get off of the tourist path.  Ask the concierge at your hotel where they would go and take their family; that’s how you know it is an authentic Italian meal!

You can easily explore the items on today’s list, but if you prefer to hear the history and stories associated with these monumental landmarks, consider taking this guided tour, the best of Rome walking tour.

Trevi Fountain

Sure to lure you into the romance of Rome (well, after you elbow your way past all of the people), the Trevi Fountain is a must-see sight for any visitor to Rome.

Dating back to Roman times, the Trevi was built at the endpoints of the Aqua Virgo Aqueduct, where the three streets met.  Standing a massive 85 feet tall and almost 65 feet wide, the fountain spills out about 2,824,800 cubic feet of water daily.  That’s a lot of water.

Stand and admire the beautiful statues before taking an iconic selfie in front of one of the world’s most recognizable fountains.  If you want a picture of the fountain without all of the tourists in the way, wake up early one morning and make this your first stop!

Read Next: Capri, Italy: The Isle of Capri Ultimate Guide

Pantheon

Head to the incredible Pantheon after visiting the Trevi.

The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved and most influential buildings in Rome.  Built between AD 118 and 125 by Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon is still a marvel to architects today.  The fascinating architecture and history of the structure kept us in awe during our visit.

We couldn’t figure out why, but the Pantheon brings Marty to tears, LITERALLY.  Even after returning home, all he has to do is think about the Pantheon, and he starts to cry. I tease him that he must have built it in a former life?!  Go give it a visit and see if you have the same reaction!

If you are interested in learning more about this great structure, consider taking a guided tour of the Pantheon.

Day 2 of Your Italy Itinerary:  Ancient Rome

Today you are in for quite a treat, but a busy day.  Put on your best walking shoes and get ready to visit the most famous sights of Ancient Rome. 

Visitors flock to Rome from all over the world to see the ancient sites left behind from when the Roman Empire ruled the world.  It is truly amazing to see these structures still standing! 

Today you will spend the day experiencing some of the best and most popular sites in Rome, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and of course, Rome’s Colosseum.

I recommend you read our Guide to Ancient Rome before going any further.  This post outlines a detailed itinerary and tips for skipping those long lines!  Even if you only have 2 days in Rome, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum are must-do items for your trip!

The Colosseum

An iconic symbol of Rome, the Colosseum stands in the middle of the bustling city, serving homage to the past.  Started by Emperor Vespasian around A.D. 70-72, the Colosseum was a gift to the Roman people.  The Colosseum was a site for various “games,” including gladiator fights and exotic animal “hunts” that were used to entertain the Roman people. 

Today, you can still see the tunnels (that used to be used on the colosseum floor) where the gladiators and wild animals were housed before the show.

Visitors can roam the stands and “public” areas with a general admission ticket, but if you want to get down into the tunnels, you have to take a guided tour like this one.  While a general tour of the Colosseum is excellent, there is nothing like having access to the tunnels and seeing the stadium from the gladiator’s point of view!

Palatine Hill

Located above the Roman Forum with an entrance just outside the Colosseum, Palatine Hill is not to be missed. This was the home of Rome’s rich and famous! 

Granted, today, you have to use a little imagination to get the complete picture, but trust me, there is still plenty to see here.  Palatine Hill had been inhabited since 1000 B.C.  And according to legend, this is where Romulus and Remus were raised.

For you see, this was prime real estate back in the early days of Rome.  Situated high on this hill, the residents could escape the noise and grunge of the city below. 

Today visitors find the remains of luxurious villas and a stadium.  Visitors are welcome to roam around on their own, but if you want a more in-depth lesson on what you are looking at on Palatine Hill, you should consider a guided tour.

This has to be included in your 10 days in Italy.

The Roman Forum

The final stop on our tour of Ancient Rome is the Roman Forum.  I know today has already been a busy day, but don’t give up on me yet.  The Roman Forum is spectacular and so worth your time, I promise!

The Roman Forum was the hub of life in the Roman Empire.  This is where all the crucial decisions were made regarding the ruling, politics, and even religion. 

People also traded their goods and worked to make money here.  This was the heartbeat of Rome!  It wasn’t until the 20th century that archaeologists began uncovering this fantastic piece of Roman history, and it is still an active dig site today with discoveries being made!

You can walk around the “streets” Caesar walked on and saw the remains of the temples, the arches, and the Senate House.  Like the other areas today, the Forum can be explored on your own, and our post on Ancient Rome outlines some of the highlights for you. 

But if you want to know the history and hear the stories from this area, then take a guided tour and learn from the expert.

Day 3:  Vatican City

On day 3 of your Italy itinerary 10 days, it’s time to visit the smallest country in the world, Vatican City!  Today’s adventure will include St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Home to the Pope and a pilgrimage site for millions of Christians, a trip to Vatican City is a must while in Rome.

Insider tip- Be sure that you are appropriately dressed for your visit, though-no bare knees or shoulders are allowed.

Since lines often average over three hours long, your best bet is to schedule a Vatican tour.  A tour will allow you to skip the line and give you an expert guide to explain all of the overwhelming beauty you will experience. 

Note that midmornings are the busiest, so book your tour in the afternoon if possible.  Marty and I did the after-hours tour and had a fabulous time.  The crowds were smaller, and we got to skip the line thanks to our guided tour, so we had more time to experience the beauty of the Vatican, especially the Sistine Chapel, without fighting for a spot.  LOL!

We didn’t make it to the Vatican on our first trip to Rome because I didn’t have appropriate clothing, and we didn’t plan well enough.  We went back to Rome a couple of years later to visit the Vatican.  This time I was prepared, and we booked our tour ahead of time to ensure that we had a great experience.

It’s important to know that they are closed Sunday, except for the last Sunday of the month. While here, take in all this area has to offer.  See St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museum while doing Italy in 10 days.

Day 3 Alternate Choice- Take a Day Trip or Food Tour

If you are not interested in visiting the Vatican during your Italy trip, you might consider taking a day trip out of Rome today.

Day Trip to Tivoli

We visited the town of Tivoli during our Italy trip and loved it.  Tivoli is a short train ride outside of Rome that is well worth your time. 

Tivoli is most famous for the Villa d’ Este, a gorgeous estate that boasts incredible gardens.  The Villa d’Este was built in 1550 for the son of Lucrezia Borgia, so you know it will be over the top!  Today, the gardens of Villa d’Este are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you visit, you will understand why.

Tivoli is most famous for the Villa d’ Este, a gorgeous estate that boasts incredible gardens.  The Villa d’Este was built in 1550 for the son of Lucrezia Borgia, so you know it will be over the top!  Today, the gardens of Villa d’Este are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you visit, you will understand why.

If you spend some time in Tivoli, don’t miss Villa Gregoriana.  Don’t let the name fool you, as Villa Gregoriana is more like a park than a villa. 

You can see remains from the villa on your way down into a canyon with beautiful greenery and waterfalls.  Remember, if you hike down, you must hike back up!

In this in-depth post, you can read about our time in Tivoli.

Day Trip to Capri

Ok, I am warning you now that if you choose to make this day trip, you must get up early as it will be a long day!  The island of Capri, Italy, is one of my absolute favorite places on Earth! 

And it will make for a really long day, but why not go for it if you’re feeling adventurous?

Get a ticket to Naples on the fast train from Rome’s Termini.  Once in Naples, follow our guide on taking the Naples to Capri ferry and get on the FAST BOAT to Capri.  Once you arrive in Capri, enjoy one of the most beautiful places on Earth. 

Visit the blue grotto, taste limoncello, and take the chair lift to the top of Mont Solaro for some of the most incredible views you have ever seen.  If you want to devote more time to this beautiful island, please do so, as Capri at night is even better. 

Although we only spent 24 hours in Capri, I fell in love with this slice of Italian paradise!

Food Tour in Rome

Taking a food tour in any city is a treat and can be fun during your 10 days in Italy.  We have done them in Dublin, Galveston, and Savannah, to name a few.  I will tell you, though, that there is nothing like a food tour in Rome. 

You get to eat excellent food and try unique Italian cocktails, and you are also introduced to new places and neighborhoods that you might not normally have visited.

We loved our Roman food tour with Secret Food Tours, so we highly recommend it to you all! This is the perfect addition to your Italy trip.

Day 4: Roman Catacombs and the Appian Way

Day 4 of your 10 days in Italy takes you to the Ancient Appian Way.  This area is a great little escape from the hustle and bustle of the crowded city of Rome. 

A short bus trip from Rome and you are transported to a quiet cobblestone road, one of the oldest in the city. It astonishes me that the Romans built a road that lasted thousands of years, but we can’t build one that lasts more than 10 years in Texas.  LOL!

The Appian Way and the Roman Catacombs are some of the many awesome things to do in Rome that should be on your Italy itinerary!

Appian Way

The Ancient Appian Way is an incredible way to spend a sunny afternoon in Rome.  Walking along the Appian Way makes you feel like you have been transported back in time. 

You will find yourself surrounded by crumbling monuments and small churches and walking along the oldest road still in existence today.  The Appian Way was a crucial road for Rome, connecting to settlements outside Rome. 

For it is this road that the military would use to march back into the city, declaring their victory over Rome’s enemies.

Today, the Appian Way allows you to take in all that history while visiting some great attractions, including Cecilia’s mausoleum, the Circus Maxentius, and the Roman catacombs.

The Roman Catacombs

There are two catacombs along the Appian Way, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the Catacombs of San Callisto. Both are fascinating and well-deserving of your time in Rome. 

The catacombs served as the burial place for the ancient Romans.  Touring them is fascinating, but not for the faint of heart or the claustrophobic.  You see, your guide will lead you underground through tight tunnels where you are surrounded by earth and burial plots to show you the intricacies of the catacombs. 

Marty and I loved this portion of our trip and found it fascinating!  Even if you only have 2 days in Rome, you should consider visiting the catacombs.

Day 5 of Your Italy Itinerary-10 days:  Rome to Florence

Train from Rome to Florence

Today you are saying farewell to Rome and heading to Florence, one of the must-see towns in Tuscany. Florence is an incredible city known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. I mean, it was home to Leonardo Da Vinci! Here you can see astonishing artwork and excellent historical sites, and eat some fantastic food.

We have outlined our favorites below and in our 2 days in Florence post, but you can also use this Florence Itinerary to help you plan your time here.

Frequent trains run from Rome to Florence, so you’re in luck.  Grab your ticket at the central Termini station in Rome, and you’re on your way. 

We find it most convenient to book our tickets from home using raileurope.com. If you didn’t know, train travel throughout Europe is a great way to get around, and Italy is no exception. 

Several train journey planners and booking apps are available to help you plan your 10-day Italy trip.  Utilizing these during your Italian holiday will give you the confidence to use them on further, more extended travels in the future.

Once you arrive in Florence, local buses can get you to your hotel if it isn’t within walking distance.  I bet you’ll be hungry when you arrive in Florence, so check out this Florence food guide for the best eats in town!

Where to Stay in Florence

You have several options when planning where you will stay in Florence.  Would you like to stay in the city center, the surrounding countryside, or outside of the center but still in the city?

Marty and I usually prefer to stay in the city center as we like walking to the attractions.  Here are some of the top hotels in the city center:

Hotel Orto de Medici

Boasting large, clean rooms in a great location, you are sure to love this hotel.  Their breakfast includes pastries, cappuccino, and fresh squeezed OJ, the perfect start to your day!

Hotel dei Macchiaioli

This budget-friendly hotel is just over a block from the Academia and two blocks from the Duomo.  You can also easily walk to the rail station from here.  All of this, combined with good sized room and a great breakfast, make this hotel well worth the money.

Hotel Mona Lisa

Another hotel in a great location was excellent customer service is the Hotel Mona Lisa.  The historic building and antique furniture make you feel like you are in Italy!

Itinerary Day 5: Florence-Duomo, Explore Florence

After checking in to your hotel, it’s time to get out and explore Florence, a must on any 10-day in Italy itinerary.

Start by visiting the famous Duomo, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore.  This complex houses the nave, Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery, so plan to spend some time exploring.

After gawking at the beautiful frescoes in the Duomo, climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome for a great view of Florence.

Next, go to the Baptistery, one of the oldest buildings in Florence, where you are greeted with some gorgeous brass doors.  If you’re up for another climb, go up Giotto’s Bell Tower for another great view of the city!

Spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring Florence, visiting the Ponte Vecchio Bridge and Michelangelo’s Square.

Consider taking this Best of Florence Walking Tour for a great introduction to the city.  This tour combines the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.

For an incredible evening, take the Medieval Florence Evening Walking Tour.  This 2-hour walking tour takes you through the city while sharing the incredible history of the Medici family and visiting a great gelato shop and the Ponte Vecchio Bridge!

You might want to consider spending some of your downtimes seeing the best views of Florence!

Day 6 of Your 10 Days in Italy:  Day Trip to Tuscany or Cinque Terre

While planning your 10 days in Italy, you want to book your Cinque Terre accommodations as soon as possible as they fill up quickly.  We’ve outlined some of the best accommodations in the Cinque Terre in this post to help assist you.

For day 6 of your Italy 10 days itinerary, you have the option of taking a day trip to the beautiful Tuscan countryside to tour some small towns and do some wine tasting, or head to the coast to experience Italy’s beautiful towns of Cinque Terre with a day trip to Cinque Terre and some hiking in Cinque Terre.

Choosing just one is a hard thing to do.  Tuscany is sprawling with gorgeous vineyards, rustic charm, and medieval towns, while Cinque Terre comprises five pretty hillside villages that are just picturesque. Both are great choices to include on your trip to Italy.

Consider the Tuscany in one day trip where you can enjoy Siena (home to some of the most amazing European churches), San Gimignano, and Pisa (especially the Learning Tower) before having lunch and wine in Chianti.  Ahhhhh-does it gets any better?

We loved the historic walled city of San Gimignano. Walking through San Gimignano made me feel like I had been transported back in time.

If you’re opting for the Cinque Terre trip, this Cinque Terre in a day is a great way to go!  You can soak up the views of Cinque Terre and swim in the beautiful turquoise water of the Italian Riviera. 

The Cinque Terre is a region of 5 hillsides and coastal towns in Italy. Known as the Italian Riviera, the Cinque Terre is an incredible place to visit. Once you arrive in the Cinque Terre region, you can take the train from La Spezia to the cities for quick and easy access to all 5 Cinque Terre towns, including Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso.

People flock to the Cinque Terre to hike the five towns’ hillsides and see the sprawling views and gorgeous vineyards.

Of course, if you would rather travel alone, check out the guide on how to quickly get from Florence to Cinque Terre.  If you have longer to spend in Cinque Terre, read 48 Hour Guide to Cinque Terre.

Day 7 of Your Italy Itinerary:  Florence-Uffizi Museum, San Lorenzo Market

On day 7 of your 10 days in Italy itinerary, you will spend more time getting to know Florence.

Start your morning with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous museums in the world.  This former home of the Medici family is now a sprawling art museum with famous works from Leonardo di Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, to name a few.

Boboli Gardens is another great addition to your Italy itinerary. You will find Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace, the once opulent Medici family home.

After exploring the gallery, do some shopping in the San Lorenzo Market, a great outdoor market perfect for finding leather, souvenirs, and pottery.

If you have more time to devote, one week in Tuscany is a great way to see this portion of Italy while still relaxing.

Itinerary Day 8:  Venice

Train From Florence to Venice

Get excited!!  Today you’re headed to Venice (one of my favorite Italian cities)!  Catch the train and settle in for your trip to Venice. 

Once you arrive and are about to exit the train station, be prepared to be amazed!  Venice had me in its trance when we stepped off the train.

If you have extra time, you might consider taking a side trip to Italy’s lake region and hiking by Como lake.

Where to Stay in Venice

If you’ve read our post about our 3 days in Venice, we will tell you where Marty and I chose to stay while in Venice. We loved our little bed and breakfast because it was off the beaten path.  If you prefer to stay somewhere more centrally located, don’t worry, Venice is full of charming places!

Here are some recommendations:

Hotel Palazzo Stern

This boutique hotel, converted from a palazzo, is a great place that is centrally located but far enough away to avoid some of the crowds.  Close to the Vaporetto and attractions, this makes a great home base for exploring Venice.

Hotel Mercurio Venezia

A more budget-friendly option is the Hotel Mercurio Venezia.  You’re bound to enjoy your stay here within walking distance to all the attractions, a great breakfast, and rooms overlooking the canals.

Day 8:  Venice-Grand Canal Tour, Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, Bridge of Sighs

We are hitting the ground running in Venice.  While I know it will be crowded, the sights we have planned to see today are must-see sights of this wonderful floating city.

Grand Canal Tour

Begin by taking a tour of the Grand Canal.  This can be done quickly and cheaply by hopping the #1 or #2 Vaporetto. 

This is an excellent introduction to the city and an easy way to take some awesome pictures.  Note that this is a water taxi so it will be stopping at several stops along the way. If you prefer, you can also book a private Grand Canal tour.

Riding down the Grand Canal allows you to quickly and easily see the charm and beauty of Venice.  The narrow waterways lead off venture around corners, making your imagination wonder what is around each bend. 

The people are going about daily while Vaporetto and boats whiz by you.  This is genuinely Venice and a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Of course, many people dream of taking a gondola ride during their time in Italy. If this is your dream, note that a gondola ride is expensive.

Even if you only have 2 days in Venice, you must do a Grand Canal tour!

St Mark’s Square, Basilica, and Doge’s Palace

Conclude your canal Tour at St. Mark’s Square.  Here we will see the iconic Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace, the square, and St. Mark’s Basilica.

Doge’s Palace

After taking your photo, make your way to Doge’s Palace.  First commissioned in 1340 and extensively modified throughout the years, the Palace was home to numerous Doges who ruled over Venice throughout history. 

Inside you will find a gorgeous structure containing numerous works of art, the Doge’s apartment, Institutional chambers, and the famous Bridge of Sighs leading to the jailhouse.

Now, if I were you, I would book the Doge’s Palace Secret Itineraries Tour before arriving in Venice.  This popular tour takes you through the palace, including several ‘off-limits’ places. 

You will also get an inside look at the prison after crossing over the bridge, where prisoners are said to get their last look at their beautiful city before being locked away in prison. 

We loved visiting Doge’s and feel it is well worth the money to go ahead and book a tour so that you get a good idea of the history and importance of this iconic building.

St. Mark’s Square and Basilica

After touring the palace, head to St. Mark’s Square and Basilica.  People from Venice call this la Piazza (the Square).  You will notice that this is a bustling square with people everywhere. 

Take all the action around the square, and avoid the cafes, as you will pay a premium to sit in this prime location.

Looking to the east, you see the beautiful Basilica with its grand arches and Romanesque carvings.  I especially loved the four horses that preside over the square. 

They just exuded power and prestige in my mind.  Also, take note of the clock tower, a great spot to get some fantastic views of Venice!

Feel free to check out the shops around the square and pop into the Correr Museum while you’re here, it is well worth a visit.

Before leaving, be sure to tour the beautiful Basilica.  Originally built as a chapel for the Doge of Venice, the basilica became a public church in the early 1800s and is now one of the most visited attractions in Venice. 

Dubbed the ‘church of gold’ due to all of the gold you see adorning the church, St. Mark’s is a sight to behold!  For an extra special treat, while not do an after-hours tour of the Basilica.

Day 9:  Day Trip to Murano and Burano

Today our 10-day Italy itinerary takes us to some other islands of Venice, Murano, and Burano.  Murano, known for its famous hand-blown glass, and Burano, famous for its handmade lace and gorgeous colorful houses, are sure to make a great outing for you today.

You can use the Vaporetto to get to the islands, but let me warn you that it is a slow trip!  If we were to go again, I would book a private tour by motorboat to the islands.

Burano

The colorful island of Burano is a shutterbug’s dream and a fabulous addition while doing Italy in 10 days.  Burano’s brightly colored houses are just screaming to have their photo taken.  Spend your time admiring these colorful gems before heading down the main street in Burano to see the ladies creating hand-made lace in the shops. 

While in Burano, you can also visit the lace museum in Burano to learn more about this fabulous craft.

Burano also has a leaning tower and many restaurants specializing in locally caught seafood.  For a complete guide, check out our post here.  Take time to enjoy a nice meal outside before heading to Murano.

Murano

After leaving Burano, you will enjoy a short boat ride to Murano.

Here you can watch the glass artists at work creating hand-blown masterpieces.  This little island is packed with stores to find the perfect piece of Murano glass to ship home as souvenirs. 

Get to know the artists.  We found that they love talking about their craft and showing off their work!

There are many great tours offered to Murano and Burano. Find the one that fits your itinerary and budget.

Day 10 of Your Italy Itinerary-10 Days:  Venice-Rialto Bridge and Market, Food Tour, Get Lost

Rialto Bridge and Market

Get up early on day 10 of your Italy itinerary and make your way to the bustling Rialto Market.  Here you can see the locals getting fresh fish, vegetables, and flowers.

The market is open Tuesday thru Saturday from around 8:00 am to noon. 

Take time to walk the Rialto Bridge while you’re in this area.  Explore the shops while waiting for your food tour!

Food Tour

One of our favorite things to do in any city is to take a food tour.  Food tours are a great way to be introduced to some great restaurants, meet fun people, and learn a lot about the history and culture of the area you are visiting.

We loved this Cicchetti and wine tour.  It was so fun to taste so many local specialties while being led by a knowledgeable local guide.  I highly recommend it to be part of your Italy Itinerary for 10 days.

If that particular tour isn’t for you, don’t worry; there are several Venice food tours to choose from.

Get Lost

For your final evening in Venice, spend some time just getting lost.  Venice is such a magical place and is even more beautiful at night.  Roam around, ducking into hidden alleys and passageways.  Don’t stress; you’re on an island; you can always find your way back!

This was one of our favorite things to do in Venice as we constantly found hidden gems just waiting to be photographed.

10-Day Italy Itinerary – Final Thoughts

We hope that you will take the suggestions in our 10-day Italy Itinerary have helped you to plan your trip to Italy. Remember to make them your own when you explore Italy in 10 days. 

If you have more time, include a few other day trips from your destination, or slow down and enjoy more of the city.  We fell in love with Italy on our first visit and have been back several times.  I think you will also find yourself falling in love with Italy!

Of course, we always want to hear from you.  Drop a line below and tell us about your experience in Italy or what you look forward to on your visit!

Happy Travels, Friends!

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About The Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

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