Speed-Running Italy in 10 Days
DISCLAIMER: 10 days is a short time but I’ll help you make the most out of it. Then you can relax when back home 😅… alright, let’s go …
The Ultimate 10 Days in Italy Itinerary
Italy is an immensely popular tourist destination. It has great culture, fabulous art, and even more fantastic architecture. For centuries, Italy dominated the Renaissance scene, with most – if not all styles and schools – having something to do with a foundation in the country. Setting that wonderful period in time aside, there is even the Classical and Roman period as well, and that’s not even accounting for the influence the Italian peninsula has had on European and global history.
And therein lies the problem!…
Every year during tourist season, Italy is literally flooded with millions of tourists – both domestic and international – all seeking to take back home with them something of that long history in art, culture, and architecture. What that means is that the most popular destination spots are bound to be crowded. And if they are not, then it will be the very roads you are taking to get to where you want to get.
So, setting aside the potential for raised costs, fares, and expenses you might be facing at some particular season, there is the over-crowding and time management you have to deal with.
And if you intend to travel on a budget like I like to do most of the time, then you REALLY need to plan well ahead of your travels.
Today, I aim to plot out a schedule for you speed running Italy in 10 Days. It will include when best to travel during that 10 days in Italy itinerary, where to travel, and how much you would expect to spend.
Most importantly, this blog is about planning the ultimate 10 days in Italy itinerary that makes sure you spend the least amount of time in traffic while seeing the most you can as you are speed running Italy in 10 days.
What Does the Ultimate 10 Days in Italy Itinerary Look Like?
What would speed running Italy in 10 days look like?
For one, you wouldn’t get to visit too many regions in Italy. Though Italy has a very very well-developed railway system, the fact of the matter is there is TOO much to see and do in the places you could travel…. in just 10 days!
After watching this video, you’ll probably need extra PTO or come up with some story like, your great great great grandmothers’ great grandmother just passed on and she meant the world to you, let alone being the oldest human ever to exist!!! …wait, according to the bible, those guys lived way too long, like 900+ years???!! … anyhooo
Day 1-2: Rome
# 1 on the 10 days in Italy itinerary is of course Rome. And that is not just because it’s Rome. Rather, it’s because…it is ROME!
- Main Attractions: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Vatican City (St. Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel), Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps.
- Why: Rome is the historical heart of Italy, with ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and religious sites. Spending just two days here allows you – barely at that – to explore the essential landmarks without feeling rushed.
👇On a budget, I have you sorted … 👊🫶
Day 3-4: Florence
Coming in at # 2 on my 10 days in Italy itinerary is Florence. Not just because it one of the most gorgeous cities in the world, but also because it is only 2 hours away from Rome by train, making her ideal as somewhere packed with fun and interesting places to see as you are speed running Italy in 10 days.
- Main Attractions: Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, Boboli Gardens.
- Why: Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, offering rich art, stunning architecture, and a more relaxed pace compared to Rome. Two days give you a good taste of its artistic and cultural wealth.
Day 5: Pisa and Lucca (Day Trip from Florence)
# 3 on our 10 days in Italy itinerary would be one of the most iconic cities in the world, Pisa!
- Main Attractions: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli, Lucca’s city walls, Lucca Cathedral, and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
- Why: Pisa is home to the iconic Leaning Tower, while Lucca offers a charming and less crowded atmosphere with well-preserved Renaissance walls. A day trip from Florence covers these highlights.
- I chose these two locations because they are nearer each other otherwise you would have to spend your day on the road, rather, on the rail to reach other beautiful Tuscan destinations like Siena and Pienza which are totally worth visiting if you have more days.
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Day 6-7: Venice
Glorious and ancient Venice is # 4 on the 10 days in Italy itinerary because just the gondola ride down the Grand Canal can tell you more about Medieval and Renaissance Age Italian politics and families than any lesson in class.
- Main Attractions: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, Grand Canal, Murano and Burano islands.
- Why: Venice is one of the most unique cities in the world with its canals, bridges, and historic palaces. Two days allow you to explore its main attractions and soak in the atmosphere.
Day 8: Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre 5 are an odd addition on this list of 10 days in Italy itinerary because they are not packed with loads of iconic or splendid sights. In fact, if it were not for the fact that the beaches on this coast are few and far between, and the villages barely hamlets in some cases, then you would have to go slow rather than do the speed running Italy in 10 days.
It’s called Cinque Terre because it consists of 5 unique gorgeous villages along the Italian Riviera. Visiting Cinque Terre will involve lots of walking but YOU WILL LOVE IT THERE!
If hiking is your thing, the Blue Trail which also includes the Via dell’ Amore (The Path of Love), will leave you wanting to come back to Italy to explore even more.
- Main Attractions: The five villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.
- Why: Cinque Terre offers breathtaking coastal scenery, colorful villages, and hiking trails. A full day lets you visit the most picturesque spots.
Day 9-10: Milan and Lake Como
Finally, I had to include Milan and Lake Como just so you could understand what nobility and living like an Emperor looked like back in the day. On these last 2 days of your 10 days in Italy itinerary, do some windsurfing and kitesurfing rather than speed running Italy in 10 days!
- Main Attractions: Milan’s Duomo, Sforza Castle, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Last Supper painting at Santa Maria delle Grazie, Lake Como (Bellagio, Varenna).
- Why: Milan is a major cultural and fashion hub, while Lake Como offers stunning landscapes and a relaxing end to your trip. You can easily travel between Milan and Lake Como in a day.
Travel Times, Travel Means, and Travel Prices Between Cities During Your 10 Days in Italy Itinerary Broken Down to Schedule
As promised, it is all about expenses and timing.
All the money in the world will not bring back a missed flight – let alone save you from an irate and officious airport warden! Oh, the horror stories we all must have… On the other hand, an empty wallet can take you around the world so long as you keep your schedule and 10 days in Italy itinerary in synch.
Train Travel Between Cities:
From-To | Distance (km) | Train Fare (€) | Train Type/Provider | Departure Station | Arrival Station | Frequency/Schedule |
Rome to Florence | 230 | 20-60 | Trenitalia Frecciarossa / Italo | Roma Termini | Firenze Santa Maria Novella | Every 30 minutes, 1h 30m travel time |
Florence to Pisa | 85 | 8-15 | Trenitalia Regionale | Firenze SMN | Pisa Centrale | Every hour, 1h 15m travel time |
Florence to Venice | 260 | 25-70 | Trenitalia Frecciarossa / Italo | Firenze SMN | Venezia Santa Lucia | Every hour, 2h travel time |
Venice to Cinque Terre | 300 | 35-85 | Trenitalia Intercity | Venezia Santa Lucia | La Spezia Centrale | Every 2-3 hours, 4h 30m travel time |
Cinque Terre to Milan | 220 | 18-35 | Trenitalia Regionale / Intercity | La Spezia Centrale | Milano Centrale | Every hour, 3h travel time |
Milan to Lake Como (Varenna) | 75 | 6-10 | Trenord Regional | Milano Centrale | Varenna-Esino | Every hour, 1h travel time |
Air Travel Between Cities:
From-To | Distance (km) | Airfare (€) | Airline | Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Frequency/Schedule |
Rome to Florence | 230 | 50-120 | ITA Airways | Rome Fiumicino (FCO) | Florence Peretola (FLR) | 3-5 flights daily, 55m flight time |
Rome to Venice | 395 | 40-100 | ITA Airways, EasyJet | Rome Fiumicino (FCO) | Venice Marco Polo (VCE) | 4-6 flights daily, 1h 10m flight time |
Venice to Milan | 280 | 45-120 | ITA Airways | Venice Marco Polo (VCE) | Milan Linate (LIN) | 3-5 flights daily, 1h flight time |
Taxi Travel Between Cities:
From-To | Distance (km) | Taxi Fare (€) | Taxi Company | Departure Location | Arrival Location | Approximate Travel Time |
Rome to Florence | 230 | 400-600 | Taxi Roma, Radio Taxi | Rome City Center | Florence City Center | 3h 30m-4h |
Florence to Pisa | 85 | 120-180 | Taxi Firenze | Florence City Center | Pisa City Center | 1h 30m-2h |
Venice to Milan | 280 | 500-700 | Radio Taxi Venezia, Taxi Milano | Venice City Center | Milan City Center | 3h-3h 30m |
Bus Travel Between Cities:
From-To | Distance (km) | Bus Fare (€) | Bus Operator | Departure Station | Arrival Station | Frequency/Schedule |
Rome to Florence | 230 | 10-20 | FlixBus, MarinoBus | Roma Tiburtina | Firenze Piazzale Montelungo | Every 2-3 hours, 4h-4h 30m travel time |
Florence to Pisa | 85 | 5-10 | Autostradale, Lazzi | Firenze Bus Station | Pisa Bus Station | Every hour, 1h 30m travel time |
Florence to Venice | 260 | 15-30 | FlixBus, BusCenter | Firenze Piazzale Montelungo | Venice Tronchetto Bus Station | Every 2-3 hours, 4h travel time |
Venice to Cinque Terre (La Spezia) | 300 | 20-35 | FlixBus, MarinoBus | Venice Tronchetto | La Spezia Bus Station | 2-3 times daily, 5h travel time |
Cinque Terre (La Spezia) to Milan | 220 | 15-25 | FlixBus, Autostradale | La Spezia Bus Station | Milan Lampugnano Bus Station | Every 2-3 hours, 4h travel time |
Milan to Lake Como (Varenna) | 75 | 5-8 | ASF Autolinee | Milan Lampugnano | Varenna Bus Stop | Every 1-2 hours, 1h 30m travel time |
Best Travel Tips Curated
1. Traveling:
- Train Travel: Italy’s high-speed trains (Frecciarossa and Italo) are efficient, with frequent departures between major cities. Regional trains (Trenord, Trenitalia Regionale) are slower but less expensive, ideal for shorter distances like Milan to Lake Como.
- Air Travel: Flights between Rome and other cities are available but often less convenient compared to train travel due to the time spent at airports. However, for longer distances, air travel may be faster despite longer check-in times.
- Taxi Travel: Taxis are the most expensive option for inter-city travel and are generally not recommended for long distances due to high costs. However, they offer door-to-door service, which can be convenient in specific circumstances.
- Bus Travel: Buses like FlixBus and MarinoBus provide budget-friendly options, but travel times are longer compared to trains. They are ideal for travelers on a budget or those who are not in a hurry.
2. Scheduling:
- Train: High-speed trains typically run every 30 minutes to an hour on major routes, with regional trains running every 1-2 hours. Tickets can be purchased in advance, with discounts often available for early bookings.
- Airplane: Airlines like ITA Airways and EasyJet operate multiple daily flights between major cities. Booking in advance can help secure lower fares.
- Taxi: Taxis are available 24/7, but it’s best to book longer trips in advance, especially for inter-city travel.
- Bus: Buses operate frequently on popular routes, with FlixBus offering the most extensive schedule. Booking online can ensure a seat, and discounts are often available for early bookings or group travel.
Best and Worst Months to Travel to Italy
And other T&C in the Fine Print You should know…
👉 Are you a people person, more interested in the crowds and flavors you meet?
👉👉 Are you more interested in the calm and quiet a villa brings as most people are back home??
👉👉👉 Or are you looking for a blend in between the two???
- Best Months: April to June, September to October
- Why: Pleasant weather, moderate tourist numbers, and fewer crowds.
- Worst Months: July, August
- Why: High temperatures, large crowds, and many locals go on holiday, causing some businesses to close. Still, it means that many also rent out their homes and apartments for tourists, so it’s a gamble of sorts?
- Holiday Closures: In August, many Italians take vacations, leading to the closure of local shops, restaurants, and some attractions, especially in smaller towns.
- Peak Travel Times: July and August see the highest tourist numbers, leading to crowded attractions and higher prices.
- Festivals and Events:
- Carnival in February (especially in Venice)
- Easter Celebrations in April
- Wine Harvest in September
- Truffle Festivals in October
- Christmas Markets in December
Climate and Temperatures
Italy is not only all about the sights and scenes. I find that a really good chunk of the guys traveling around Italy on their own version of a 10 days in Italy itinerary do so because of the very diverse weather in the country!
Month | Season | Average Temperature (°C) | Weather Characteristics |
January | Winter | 2-12 | Cold, snow in northern regions, particularly in the Alps |
February | Winter | 3-13 | Cold, wet, possible snow in the north |
March | Spring | 7-17 | Mild, beginning of spring, blooming flowers |
April | Spring | 10-19 | Mild, more sunshine, occasional showers, some regions have terrible floods mainly north Italy |
May | Spring | 14-24 | Warm, sunny, flowers in full bloom |
June | Summer | 18-28 | Warm to hot, dry, long daylight hours |
July | Summer | 21-31 | Hot-scorching hot!!, sunny, occasional thunderstorms |
August | Summer | 21-31 | Hot in caps!, many Italians on vacation, crowded tourist spots, surprise floods in some regions! |
September | Autumn | 18-26 | Warm, harvest season, fewer crowds |
October | Autumn | 13-21 | Mild, colorful foliage, some rain |
November | Autumn | 8-16 | Cool, wet, fewer tourists |
December | Winter | 3-12 | Cold, Christmas markets, festive atmosphere |
Rain Patterns:
Yeah, I am NOT a fan of rain. Not when it is not on my own schedule, and especially, not when I am out there working out a solid 10 days in Italy itinerary!
Month | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days (Avg) | Regional Variations |
January | 50-100 | 8-10 | Higher in northern Italy, lower in the south |
February | 40-90 | 7-9 | Similar to January |
March | 40-80 | 7-9 | North and central regions may see more rain |
April | 45-90 | 8-10 | Moderate rainfall, higher in the north |
May | 50-90 | 7-9 | Rain decreases as you move south |
June | 30-70 | 5-7 | Drier in the south, occasional thunderstorms |
July | 20-60 | 3-5 | Least rainfall, thunderstorms in the north |
August | 30-70 | 4-6 | Slight increase in rain, especially in the north |
September | 50-90 | 6-8 | Rain starts to increase, especially in the north |
October | 60-120 | 8-10 | Wettest month in many regions, especially central, other regions experience floods |
November | 70-120 | 8-11 | High rainfall, especially in central and northern Italy |
December | 50-100 | 8-10 | Moderate, similar to January |
Tourist Numbers and Types:
Something fun you will notice is that the crowds also speed-running Italy in 10 days – or doing some version of their own 10 days in Italy itinerary – come in groups. So here are the highlights of what kind of people you can expect.
Month | Tourist Numbers | Main Tourist Types/Groups |
January | Low | Winter sports enthusiasts, Christmas market visitors |
February | Low | Carnival visitors (Venice), winter sports |
March | Moderate | Early spring tourists, cultural enthusiasts |
April | Moderate-High | Families, couples, cultural tourists |
May | High | Couples, families, art and history buffs |
June | High | Families, international tourists, honeymooners |
July | Very High | Families, large tour groups, beachgoers |
August | Very High | International tourists, local vacationers |
September | High | Couples, older travelers, fewer families |
October | Moderate-High | Couples, cultural tourists, food and wine enthusiasts |
November | Low | Off-season travelers, art and history buffs |
December | Moderate | Christmas market visitors, winter sports enthusiasts |
Tourist Demographics:
Also, mucho importivo…
Month | Demographics | Notes |
January | Mostly European, older travelers | Ski resorts, cultural cities like Rome and Florence |
February | European, mixed ages | Carnival attracts younger crowds |
March | Mixed, cultural travelers | Early season for museums, art galleries |
April | International, families | Easter holiday peak, family-friendly destinations |
May | International, diverse | Art, culture, wine tours popular |
June | International, families | Beach destinations start to fill up |
July | International, young families | Crowded cities, popular tourist spots |
August | International, young adults | Many locals on vacation, peak tourist season |
September | Older travelers, couples | Harvest festivals, wine regions popular |
October | Couples, foodies | Truffle hunting, food and wine tours |
November | Off-season travelers | Quieter cities, museums less crowded |
December | European, families | Christmas markets, ski resorts, festive atmosphere |
The Wallet Situation when Speed Running Italy in 10 Days
And other T&C You Will Encounter
1. Taxi Fares:
City/Town/Village | Base Fare (€) | Price per Km (€) | Typical Short Ride (5-10 km) | T&C Applied |
Rome | 3-5 | 1.10-1.50 | 10-20 | Additional charges for night rides and luggage |
Florence | 3-4 | 1.00-1.20 | 8-15 | Central Florence is walkable, taxis mainly used for outskirts |
Pisa | 3-4 | 1.10-1.30 | 8-15 | Airport rides have fixed rates |
Venice | 3-6 (land) | 7-10 (water taxi) | 12-20 (land), 40-80 (water) | Water taxis are significantly more expensive |
Cinque Terre | 5-7 | 2.00-2.50 | 15-30 | Limited road access; taxis are uncommon |
Milan | 3-6 | 1.10-1.50 | 10-20 | Additional charges for night rides and luggage |
Lake Como (Bellagio, Varenna) | 5-7 | 1.50-2.00 | 15-30 | Taxis are rare; boat services are common |
2. Entrance Fees to Major Attractions:
City/Town/Village | Attraction | Entrance Fee (€) | Notes |
Rome | Colosseum & Roman Forum | 16-24 | Combined ticket; discounts for EU citizens under 25 |
Rome | Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel | 17-30 | Higher prices for skip-the-line tickets |
Florence | Uffizi Gallery | 20-30 | Higher during peak season |
Florence | Accademia Gallery (Michelangelo’s David) | 12-20 | Peak season prices are higher |
Pisa | Leaning Tower of Pisa | 20-25 | Access to the cathedral is often free |
Venice | St. Mark’s Basilica | Free (Basic sites and places), 5-10 (Museum areas) | Higher fees for skip-the-line access |
Venice | Doge’s Palace | 25 | Combined ticket includes nearby museums |
Cinque Terre | Hiking Trails | 7.50-10 | Day pass includes train access between villages |
Milan | Duomo Cathedral & Rooftop | 8-17 | Rooftop access is an additional fee |
Milan | The Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie) | 15-25 | Requires advance booking |
Lake Como | Villa Carlotta, Tremezzo | 10-15 | Discounts for students and seniors |
3. Accommodation Prices (Per Night):
I will not include the specific places you can stay as some of the best options might be hidden gems that rarely have websites and simply operate via Instagram and Facebook. Still, be careful out there, do your research on the place you intend to stay, and always make sure someone NOT in your group knows where you booked to stay so that there is someone to tell your story in the documentaries on Missing Persons and perhaps even go on an Epic Revenge mission someday….
City/Town/Village | Low-End (€) | Mid-Range (€) | High-End (€) | Notes |
Rome | 50-100 | 120-250 | 300-600+ | Prices higher near historical center |
Florence | 50-90 | 100-200 | 250-500+ | Boutique hotels in the city center can be pricey |
Pisa | 40-80 | 90-150 | 180-300+ | Lower prices compared to Florence and Rome |
Venice | 60-120 | 150-250 | 300-800+ | High-end hotels in Venice are crazy expensive |
Cinque Terre | 50-100 | 120-200 | 250-500+ | Prices vary significantly between villages |
Milan | 60-110 | 120-200 | 300-600+ | Higher prices near the Duomo |
Lake Como (Bellagio, Varenna) | 70-120 | 130-220 | 250-600+ | Scenic locations command higher prices |
4. Restaurant Prices:
City/Town/Village | Low-End (per person,€) | Mid-Range (per person,€) | High-End (per person, €) | Notes |
Rome | 10-20 | 25-50 | 70-150+ | Trattorias offer affordable meals |
Florence | 10-20 | 25-50 | 70-150+ | Traditional Tuscan cuisine is popular |
Pisa | 10-15 | 20-40 | 50-100+ | More affordable than Florence |
Venice | 12-25 | 30-60 | 80-200+ | Expect higher prices, especially near tourist areas |
Cinque Terre | 10-20 | 25-50 | 60-120+ | Fresh seafood is a highlight |
Milan | 12-25 | 30-60 | 80-200+ | Milanese cuisine includes upscale dining options |
Lake Como | 15-25 | 30-60 | 80-200+ | Lakeside dining can be costly |
Clever Hacks to Make Your Wallet Last Longer
- Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Italy, but leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.
- Booking in Advance: For high-end restaurants and accommodations, especially in popular cities like Venice and Rome, booking in advance is recommended.
- City Tax: Most cities charge a tourist tax per person, per night, which ranges from €1 to €5 depending on the city and type of accommodation.
Discount and Offer Table for Museums and Tour Operators
Finally, how could you come to Italy and not get any deals?!
You are traveling among cities, towns, and villages centuries if not millennia old. If there is anyone who knows how to draw stone from a rock, it is some Italian seated behind a counter, smile on face and ETR machine close at hand.
Of course, you need to be careful, as some “deals” really aren’t and many of them are really scams. Check out a blog and video I did on some of the more common scams in and around Rome itself.
City/Town/Village | Offer/Discount Type | Price (€) | Description | Notes |
Rome | Roma Pass (48 hours) | 32 | Provides access to 2 museums or archaeological sites, plus unlimited public transport within the city for 48 hours. | Excellent for those planning to explore Rome’s key attractions, including the Colosseum and Capitoline Museums, with priority entry at one site. |
Roma Pass (72 hours) | 52 | Includes access to 3 museums/sites, and covers public transportation for 72 hours. | Gives flexibility for a longer stay, ideal for art lovers and history buffs planning to visit multiple museums and landmarks. | |
Vatican & Rome City Pass | 113-129 | A combo package that includes fast-track entry to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and other major Roman sites. | Perfect for those who want a seamless experience, especially during peak tourist season when lines can be long. Also includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for easier city navigation. | |
Omnia Card (72 hours) | 113 | Offers skip-the-line access to Vatican sites, major attractions in Rome, and a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for 72 hours. | Provides great value for those interested in both Vatican City and central Rome. It includes a travel card for public transport, making it easier to move around. | |
Florence | Firenze Card (72 hours) | 85 | A 72-hour pass that grants access to 72 museums and cultural sites, including priority entry to top attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia. | Ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Florence’s rich cultural scene. Note that it doesn’t cover public transport, so budget for that separately. |
Uffizi + Accademia Combo Ticket | 38-42 | Discounted combo ticket offering entry to both the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, valid for 5 days. | Better purchased online to avoid long queues. A great option for those focusing on Florence’s most famous artworks, including Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” and Michelangelo’s “David.” | |
City Walking Tours | 35-60 | Offers discounts when booking multiple guided walking tours, such as the Uffizi Gallery tour combined with a visit to the Duomo. | These tours provide in-depth insights into Florence’s art and history, often including skip-the-line entry. Prices vary based on the tour length and inclusions. | |
Pisa | Pisa Tower Combo Ticket | 27 | Includes access to the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, Baptistery, and Camposanto Monumentale. | Essential for those wanting the full Pisa experience. Note that children under 8 are not allowed to climb the Leaning Tower, and there are strict rules about booking time slots online. |
Pisa City Pass | 30-40 | Combines entry to the Leaning Tower and other attractions in Pisa, such as the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. | Ideal for visitors who plan to explore more than just the tower. This pass offers flexibility and convenience, especially when combined with a guided tour. | |
Venice | Venice Card (24 hours) | 30 | Grants access to major sites including St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, plus unlimited use of the vaporetto water buses for 24 hours. | Great for a day-long intensive tour of Venice’s highlights. The card helps avoid the hassle of buying separate tickets and offers flexibility in transport. |
Venice Card (48 hours) | 45 | Extends access to museums and public transport to 48 hours, with entry to top sites like the Correr Museum and Ca’ Rezzonico. | Excellent for a two-day stay, allowing you to explore Venice’s extensive cultural offerings at a relaxed pace. The card can be customized with additional options depending on your interests. | |
Venezia Unica City Pass | 40-60 | A customizable pass that includes access to various museums, churches, and public transport options. The price depends on the specific attractions selected. | Suitable for visitors who want to tailor their Venice experience. This pass is especially useful if you have particular interests, like Venetian art or religious architecture. Discounts on additional sites and tours can make it a good value. | |
Museum Pass | 30 | A 3-day pass that offers entry to 11 museums in Venice, including Doge’s Palace, Museo Correr, and the Glass Museum in Murano. | Ideal for art and history lovers who want to delve into Venice’s rich cultural heritage. This pass is particularly cost-effective for those planning to visit multiple museums. | |
Cinque Terre | Cinque Terre Trekking Card (1 day) | 7.50-18 | Provides access to the national park’s hiking trails, with the higher price including unlimited train travel between the five villages. | Awesome tourist destination spot for hikers and those planning to visit multiple villages in one day. The card also includes Wi-Fi at train stations and access to park buses, adding to its convenience. |
Cinque Terre Trekking Card (2 days) | 14.50-33 | Extends the benefits of the 1-day card to two days, including unlimited train travel between the villages. | A good option for travelers who want to take their time exploring the area, perhaps combining hiking with village visits. The card is valid for consecutive days, offering flexibility in planning your itinerary. | |
Boat Tour Discounts | 20-40 per hour | Discounts offered for group bookings or multi-day boat tours along the Cinque Terre coast. Prices depend on the operator and duration. | Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the Cinque Terre from the water, showcasing the dramatic coastal cliffs. Group discounts are available, and some operators offer special packages that include snorkeling or sunset cruises. | |
Milan | Milan City Pass (48 hours) | 69 | Covers entry to Milan’s top attractions, including the Duomo, La Scala, and The Last Supper, plus public transport for 48 hours. | Great for a short stay in Milan, providing access to the most significant cultural sites with the convenience of included transport. This pass also offers discounts on additional guided tours and attractions. |
Milan City Pass (72 hours) | 79 | Extends the benefits of the 48-hour pass to 72 hours, allowing more time to explore Milan’s extensive cultural offerings. | Perfect for travelers who want a more leisurely exploration of Milan. The pass includes free public transport and can be an economical choice for longer stays, particularly if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions. | |
Duomo & Rooftop Combo Ticket | 20 | A discounted combo ticket that includes entry to the Duomo Cathedral, Archaeological Area, and Rooftop access, providing a comprehensive view of Milan’s iconic landmark. | Purchasing this combo online in advance is recommended to avoid long queues. The rooftop offers stunning views of Milan and is well worth the additional cost. Discounts are available for children and students, making it a family-friendly option. | |
Museum Card (72 hours) | 15 | A 72-hour pass granting unlimited entry to Milan’s civic museums, including the Sforza Castle Museums and the Modern Art Gallery. | This pass is a bargain for art and history enthusiasts, allowing for an in-depth exploration of Milan’s cultural sites. The card is especially beneficial during longer stays, giving ample time to appreciate the city’s museums without feeling rushed. | |
Lake Como | Lake Como Day Pass | 30-40 | Offers discounts on boat trips, funicular rides, and select villa visits around Lake Como. Available for 1-3 days. | Ideal for travelers looking to explore the lake region extensively. The pass includes unlimited public transport within the area, making it easier to visit multiple towns and villas in a single day. Some passes also offer discounts on dining and shopping in the region. |
Villa Combo Ticket | 25-40 | Provides discounted entry to multiple villas, such as Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Melzi, known for their stunning gardens and historic architecture. | A must for those interested in architecture and botany. The villas offer a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past, and the combo ticket provides excellent value compared to purchasing individual tickets. The ticket is valid for multiple days, allowing for a relaxed visit schedule. |
Best Tips
- Advance Booking: Many passes and tickets offer additional savings and benefits when purchased in advance, particularly online. This is highly recommended for popular sites like the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour and the Uffizi Gallery, where tickets can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Tailored Experiences: Customizable passes like the Venezia Unica City Pass and Milan City Pass allow travelers to design their itineraries according to their interests, offering flexibility in choosing which attractions to visit. These passes can often be tailored to include transportation, dining, and other amenities, making them highly convenient.
- Family and Group Offers: Group discounts are frequently available, particularly for guided tours, boat trips, and multi-day passes in regions like Cinque Terre and Lake Como. These can significantly reduce costs for families or groups traveling together, and some operators offer special packages that combine different activities for a more comprehensive experience.
- Cultural Seasons: In cities like Florence and Venice, some attractions and passes offer seasonal discounts, particularly during the off-peak months from November to March. These discounts can include reduced ticket prices or special packages that combine museum entry with cultural events, providing excellent value for visitors willing to travel outside the high season.
- Transport Integration: Many passes, such as the Roma Pass and Milan City Pass, include public transport options, making them a convenient choice for those planning to use the city’s transportation system frequently. This is particularly valuable in cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan, where attractions are spread out and public transport is essential for efficient travel.
- Educational Value: For travelers with a strong interest in history, art, or architecture, passes like the Firenze Card or Venice’s Museum Pass offer significant educational value by providing access to a wide range of cultural sites. These passes often include skip-the-line access, allowing for a more immersive and uninterrupted experience.
That’s it folks, I have lots of videos up on My YouTube channel giving you useful travel guides and tips to visiting Italy and beyond. Please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to my channel 🫶🫶
23 Comments
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Trisha Velarmino
How much time should I allocate to exploring Rome’s major sites like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Pantheon during a fast-paced trip?
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
I think 2 days would be enough if you really want to rush through and see the most out of Rome, putting a day to all major sights in Rome and the other day just for the Vatican state which includes the Vatican Museums which in my opinion shouldn’t be missed, and if you don’t find long queues entering St. Peters Basilica and the Vatican museums, you’ll have most of the afternoon free to further explore Rome
Meghan
Italy is so amazing! Even with ten days it can feel rushed, but I love how you created graphics here with top things to do. Makes planning so much easier.
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
10 days is suicidal but I’m guessing when done with the trip, the real holiday rest will be done back home 😅
Tanya Turner
Great informative post. I enjoyed reading through your charts of what to expect in each region in which months as I’m traveling to Milan in December this year!
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
Milan is beautiful in December, if you have time don’t miss the popular storm spa at QC Termemilano and the Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci at Santa Maria delle Grazie (needs pre-booking). All in all have fun in Milan.
Linda (LD Holland)
You have provided a great 10 day tour for visiting Italy. These are some of my favourites spots. And would give a visitor some great variety in sights. Love how well the trains work for travel in Italy! Great helpful tips for each spot.
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
The train system helps a lot to navigate and visit most sites quicker, plus they are cheap. Though 10 days is a whole workout running through Italy but totally worth it.
Under flowery sky
It is an amazing itinerary of Italy in a short, I visited most of them except Cinque Terre. Trains are so convenient in Italy…
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
10 days will be a marathon through Italy but the trains I agree are convenient and they help the run.
Rhonda
You covered a lot in only 10 days. I like to deep dive one city in a day so I am impressed with your schedule
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
Hi Rhonda, this was actually meant for those who want to see it all in that short time, it’s doable but really exhausting.
Sonia
The information about travel logistics, weather, tourists are super helpful even if not on a speed itinerary. Looks like a packed but fun 10 days!
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
I like to say that, this was not meant to be a holiday but a whole workout and recovery is when back at home 😅
Rylee Muir
This is such a great itinterary to see all of the best parts of Italy! I’ve been a few times myself, and these are the exact spots i’d recommend anyone visits if they only have one trip to see everything.
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
Thank you so much, personally 10 days is a short time to explore Italy but if I had only one shot at Italy, I’d do it!
Natascha
Great suggestions for a ten-day Italy trip! While I am not a fan of rushing through a country, I can see that you would want to make the most of the time you have. Especially if you are from abroad. I visited Florence during Corona, and all the wine windows were closed….
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
I did this rush once before and I wouldn’t advocate for it but I picked closer and easier routes to cut to the chase. Sorry that you missed them, the wine windows were actually revived a little post corona, they were closed for the longest time then when the Corona effects started wearing off, they reopened and Instagram made them popular all over again. I guess you have another reason to go back to Florence 👌
Jennifer Record
WOW is this a thorough post! Totally printing that one page list to aid in my planning..and love to info on weather and locations from one another…
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
Thank you, hope it helps and hopefully global warming doesn’t shift things off as has been over the last 2 years in Italy.
Jen T
So much info in this post. Thanks for sharing. I loved visiting Rome and Venice and we really want to get back to Italy again.
Basic To Glam Chic Travels
Italy is always a great idea!