12 Days Exploring Italy's Historic and Scenic Gems Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola). This Baroque church is famous for its ceiling frescoes that create an optical illusion. It's a peaceful start to your day filled with art and spirituality.

Spend your afternoon exploring Raphael's Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello) in the Vatican Museums. These rooms are adorned with frescoes painted by Raphael and his students. For lunch, savor authentic Italian flavors at Osteria da Fortunata, known for its handmade pasta.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Trastevere, one of Rome's most charming neighborhoods. Enjoy dinner at Tonnarello, where you can taste classic Roman dishes in a cozy setting.

Travel from Rome to Florence early in the morning. Start your Florentine adventure with a visit to the iconic Florence Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria dei Fiori). Climb up Brunelleschi’s Dome for breathtaking views of Florence.

After exploring the Duomo, head over to the renowned art museum, Uffizi Galleries (Gallerie degli Uffizi), home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. For lunch, enjoy delicious Tuscan cuisine at Trattoria Mario, famous for its hearty Florentine steak.

In the evening, take a relaxing walk along the Arno River and cross the historic Ponte Vecchio. End your day with dinner at Gustapizza, known for its mouthwatering pizzas.

Begin your second day in Florence with a visit to the impressive Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia), home to Michelangelo’s David. Spend time admiring this iconic sculpture along with other Renaissance artworks.

Next, explore the beautiful gardens of Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli), offering stunning views over Florence and numerous sculptures scattered throughout. For lunch, dine at Osteria Santo Spirito, which offers delightful Tuscan dishes in an artistic setting.

Conclude your day by visiting the historic square, Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by impressive statues including a replica of Michelangelo’s David. Enjoy dinner at Buca Lapi, one of Florence’s oldest restaurants serving traditional Tuscan fare.

Start your Venetian adventure with a visit to the iconic St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco). This bustling square is home to some of Venice's most famous landmarks, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile. Enjoy a morning coffee at one of the historic cafes in the square.

Spend your afternoon exploring the magnificent Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale). This Gothic masterpiece was once the residence of the Doge of Venice and now houses a museum. For lunch, savor Venetian seafood at Osteria alle Testiere, known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.

Conclude your day with a romantic gondola ride through Venice's picturesque canals. Afterward, enjoy dinner at Ristorante Quadri, offering stunning views of St. Mark's Square and exquisite Italian cuisine.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Collezione Peggy Guggenheim) is a must-visit for art lovers. This modern art museum houses works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí among others. It's a serene way to start your day immersed in contemporary art.

Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. Spend your afternoon exploring this historic bridge and the nearby Rialto Market, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. For lunch, dine at Cantina Do Spade, offering traditional Venetian cicchetti.

La Fenice Opera House (Teatro La Fenice) is an iconic venue for opera and classical music performances. Enjoy an evening show or simply take a guided tour to appreciate its opulent interiors. For dinner, head to Antiche Carampane, known for its authentic Venetian cuisine.

Milan Duomo is an architectural marvel that you cannot miss when in Milan. Start your day by visiting this stunning cathedral and take an elevator or climb up to its rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city.

Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art including works by Raphael and Caravaggio. Spend your afternoon exploring this renowned gallery followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant such as Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone which offers delightful Milanese dishes.

Navigli District is famous for its vibrant nightlife along with picturesque canals lined with bars and restaurants making it perfect spot for evening strolls followed by dinner at El Brellin known for traditional Lombardian cuisine.

Begin your second day in Milan with visit to iconic painting - Da Vinci’s Last Supper (Da Vinci's Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)) located within Church Santa Maria delle Grazie . Make sure book tickets advance as slots fill quickly!

Next head towards Sforza Castle (Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)) which houses several museums showcasing everything from ancient artifacts musical instruments . Enjoy leisurely lunch nearby restaurant likeTrattoria Torre di Pisa serving delicious Italian fare .

Conclude day visiting lively Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II[728]) - one oldest shopping malls world filled luxury boutiques cafes . Dine exquisite mealCracco Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Italian cuisine.

Start your day with a scenic boat ride on Lake Como. The serene waters and stunning mountain views make for a perfect morning activity. Stop by the charming town of Bellagio, often referred to as the 'Pearl of Lake Como,' and enjoy a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets.

After exploring Bellagio, head to Villa Carlotta, a beautiful villa with extensive gardens that offer breathtaking views of the lake. Spend your afternoon wandering through the gardens and admiring the art collections inside the villa. For lunch, dine at a lakeside restaurant such as La Darsena, known for its fresh seafood and stunning views.

Conclude your day with a visit to Varenna, another charming town on Lake Como. Enjoy dinner at Al Prato, where you can savor traditional Italian dishes while overlooking the lake.

Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei) is one of the most famous hiking trails on the Amalfi Coast. Start your day with this scenic hike that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.

Amalfi Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea) is a must-visit in Amalfi town. Spend your afternoon exploring this stunning cathedral and its beautiful cloister. For lunch, enjoy delicious seafood at Ristorante Marina Grande, located right by the sea.

Ravello is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views over the Amalfi Coast. Visit Villa Rufolo or Villa Cimbrone Gardens (Villa Cimbrone Gardens) in Ravello during sunset for an unforgettable experience followed by dinner at La Sponda, offering exquisite cuisine in an elegant setting.

Pompeii Archaeological Site is one of Italy’s most famous historical sites. Start your day with a guided tour of this ancient city that was buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius.

Sorrento St. Anthony Basilica (Basilica di Sant’Antonino) in Sorrento offers insight into local history along with beautiful architecture . Afterward explore lively Piazza Tasso before enjoying lunch at Da Vincenzo known for its authentic Italian dishes .

Conclude day relaxing Marina Grande (Marina Grande[4288]) - picturesque fishing village offering stunning sunset views . DineTrattoria Da Lorenzo renowned seafood restaurant serving fresh catch day .

Begin final day relaxing Mitigliano Beach (Mitigliano Beach (Cala di Mitigliano)[23702]) secluded spot crystal clear waters perfect swimming sunbathing .

Next head towards Positano explore colorful cliffside village filled boutique shops cafes . Enjoy leisurely lunchLe Sirenuse Hotel Restaurant offering panoramic coastal views delicious Mediterranean cuisine .

Conclude trip memorable dinnerIl Pirata Praiano renowned romantic ambiance delectable dishes making perfect end Italian adventure .