12 Days Exploring Italy's Highlights Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Siena Cathedral (Duomo). This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of Italy's most beautiful churches, featuring intricate marble floors, stunning frescoes, and impressive sculptures.

After exploring the cathedral, head to Palio of Siena (Palio di Siena), an iconic horse race held twice a year in Siena's Piazza del Campo. Even if you're not visiting during race time, you can still explore the piazza and learn about this historic event at the nearby museum. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Tuscan fare at Trattoria Mario, known for its hearty dishes and local charm.

In the evening, drive to San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers. Visit Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo di San Gimignano), which houses beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. For dinner, dine at Cibrèo Trattoria back in Florence before returning to your accommodation.

Start your day with a visit to Pisa's famous Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre Pendente di Pisa). Climb to the top for breathtaking views over Pisa before exploring other attractions like the Cathedral and Baptistery in Piazza dei Miracoli.

Drive to Lucca for an afternoon exploring this charming walled city. Walk along Lucca's well-preserved Renaissance walls before visiting landmarks like Lucca Clock Tower (Torre delle Ore) and Church of San Michele in Foro (Chiesa di San Michele in Foro). Enjoy lunch at one of Lucca's quaint cafes or trattorias.

For dinner, return to Florence for an unforgettable meal at Enoteca Pinchiorri, another Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its extensive wine list and exquisite cuisine.

Embark on a day trip from Tuscany to explore the stunning coastal villages of Cinque Terre National Park (Cinque Terre National Park (Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre)). Start early so you have plenty of time to visit multiple villages such as Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Spend your afternoon hiking between these picturesque villages or taking a boat ride along the coast for unique views from the water. Stop for lunch at one of Cinque Terre’s seafood restaurants offering fresh catches from local fishermen.

Return to Tuscany in time for dinner at La Pergola, where you can indulge in gourmet Italian cuisine while reflecting on your day's adventures along Italy’s beautiful coastline.

Start your day with a visit to the Ferriere Valley Nature Reserve (Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere). This lush reserve offers beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and unique flora. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

Head to Amalfi Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea) in the heart of Amalfi town. This stunning cathedral features a mix of architectural styles and houses important religious artifacts. For lunch, enjoy some fresh seafood at a local restaurant overlooking the sea.

In the evening, visit Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello. These gardens offer breathtaking views of the coastline and are perfect for a leisurely stroll. End your day with dinner at one of Ravello's charming restaurants.

Sorrento Pasta Masterclass with a Meal and Wine is an excellent way to start your day. Learn how to make traditional Italian pasta from scratch and enjoy your creations paired with local wines.

Pompeii Archaeological Site is a must-visit when you're on the Amalfi Coast. Spend your afternoon exploring this ancient city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. The well-preserved ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman life.

Ristorante Moma in Sorrento is perfect for dinner. This highly-rated restaurant offers delicious Italian cuisine with stunning views of the Bay of Naples.

Capri Boat Tour Experience will take you around the island's stunning coastline, including visits to famous sites like the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni Rocks.

Monte Solaro is Capri's highest point and offers panoramic views over the island and surrounding sea. Take a chairlift from Anacapri or hike up if you're feeling adventurous. Enjoy lunch at one of Anacapri's charming cafes before exploring more of this picturesque town.

Return to Sorrento for dinner at La Pergola, where you can enjoy gourmet Italian cuisine while reflecting on your day's adventures.

Begin your Roman adventure with a visit to Colosseum (Colosseo). This iconic symbol of Rome was once used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.

Head over to Roman Forum (Foro Romano), which was once the center of Roman public life. Explore its ancient ruins, including temples, basilicas, and arches that date back thousands of years. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Roman dishes at Osteria da Fortunata, known for its homemade pasta.

In the evening, visit Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome before heading to dinner at Pipero Roma, where you can indulge in modern Italian cuisine crafted by renowned chefs.

Start your day with a visit to the Pantheon. This ancient Roman temple, now a church, is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome and features a stunning oculus that opens to the sky.

After exploring the Pantheon, head to Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most famous squares. Here you can admire beautiful fountains, including Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers. For lunch, enjoy some delicious Roman cuisine at Nonna Betta, known for its traditional Jewish-Roman dishes.

In the evening, visit Campo de' Fiori, a lively square known for its daily market and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at Da Enzo Al 29, a highly-rated trattoria offering authentic Roman dishes in a cozy setting.

Begin your day with a visit to St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), one of the largest churches in the world and an important pilgrimage site for Catholics. Climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views over Vatican City and Rome.

After exploring St. Peter's Basilica, head to Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani). These museums house an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, including Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling. For lunch, enjoy some Italian fare at La Prosciutteria Trevi, located near Trevi Fountain.

In the evening, explore Trastevere, a charming neighborhood known for its narrow streets and vibrant nightlife. Visit Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere (Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere) before heading to dinner at Trattoria Monti, which offers delicious Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Start your Venetian adventure with a visit to St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco). This iconic church is known for its stunning mosaics and intricate architecture.

After exploring St. Mark's Basilica, head to Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), which was once the residence of the Doge of Venice. Explore its opulent rooms and learn about Venice's rich history. For lunch, enjoy some Venetian cuisine at Osteria alle Testiere, known for its fresh seafood dishes.

In the evening, take a romantic gondola ride along Venice’s canals before heading to dinner at Antiche Carampane, where you can savor traditional Venetian dishes in an intimate setting.

Begin your day with a visit to Venice Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia). This renowned art museum houses an impressive collection of Venetian paintings from artists like Titian and Tintoretto.

After exploring the Accademia Gallery, head to Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Collezione Peggy Guggenheim), which features modern art from artists like Picasso and Pollock. For lunch, enjoy some Italian fare at Da Fiore, another highly-rated restaurant in Venice.

In the evening, visit Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Quadri, where you can indulge in gourmet Italian cuisine while overlooking St. Mark’s Square.