21 Days of Italian Culture and Beauty Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. This museum is dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci’s scientific studies and inventions, providing fascinating insights into his genius.

For lunch, head over to Joia, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers exquisite vegetarian cuisine. Afterward, explore the historic Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), which houses several museums and art collections within its walls.

Spend your evening in the vibrant Navigli District (Navigli District). Known for its picturesque canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci, this area is perfect for an evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at Langosteria, famous for its seafood dishes.

Discover some of Milan’s lesser-known treasures starting with the beautiful Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore). Often referred to as 'Milan’s Sistine Chapel,' this church boasts stunning frescoes that are sure to impress.

For lunch, savor delicious panzerotti at the famous Luini Panzerotti. Then visit the serene Sempione Park (Parco Sempione), where you can relax amidst lush greenery or explore landmarks like the Arch of Peace (Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace)).

Conclude your day with a visit to La Scala Opera House (La Scala Opera House (Teatro alla Scala)), one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. After enjoying an opera performance or tour, dine at Nobu Milano for an exquisite fusion dining experience.

Start your final day in Milan by visiting the impressive collection at Ambrosiana Museum and Library (Ambrosiana Museum and Library (Veneranda Biblioteca Ambrosiana)), which includes works by Leonardo da Vinci.

Enjoy lunch at Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia, renowned for its creative Italian cuisine. Post-lunch, explore Corso Buenos Aires (Corso Buenos Aires), one of Europe’s longest shopping streets filled with shops and cafes.

End your stay in Milan with a relaxing evening walk through Piazza Gae Aulenti (Piazza Gae Aulenti), known for its modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Have dinner at Al Garghet, offering traditional Lombard cuisine in a rustic setting.

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Milan Duomo. This magnificent cathedral is one of the largest in the world and offers breathtaking views from its rooftop. The intricate Gothic architecture is a testament to Milan's rich history and artistic heritage.

After exploring the Duomo, head to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's oldest active shopping gallery. This stunning 19th-century arcade is not only a shopper's paradise but also an architectural marvel. For lunch, enjoy a meal at Ristorante Cracco, known for its innovative cuisine and elegant setting.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Brera, one of Milan's most charming neighborhoods. Here, you can visit the renowned Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) which houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art. End your day with dinner at Trattoria Milanese, offering traditional Milanese dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology is dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci’s scientific studies and inventions, providing fascinating insights into his genius.

Joia offers exquisite vegetarian cuisine for lunch. Afterward, explore the historic Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), which houses several museums and art collections within its walls.

Navigli District is known for its picturesque canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Enjoy dinner at Langosteria, famous for its seafood dishes.

Start your day with a visit to St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco). This iconic church is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and its opulent interior is adorned with stunning mosaics. The early morning visit will help you avoid the crowds.

For lunch, head to Osteria alle Testiere, a small but highly acclaimed restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes. Afterward, explore the nearby Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), a historic palace that was once the residence of the Doge of Venice and now serves as a museum.

In the evening, take a romantic gondola ride through the canals of Venice, starting from Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto). This iconic bridge offers picturesque views of the Grand Canal. For dinner, enjoy traditional Venetian cuisine at Antiche Carampane, located in a charming, hidden corner of Venice.

Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Collezione Peggy Guggenheim). This modern art museum is housed in Peggy Guggenheim's former home and features works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí.

For lunch, dine at Cantina Do Spade, one of Venice’s oldest osterias offering delicious cicchetti (Venetian tapas). Afterward, head to Venice Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia), which houses an impressive collection of Venetian paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries.

Spend your evening exploring the lively Campo Santa Margherita (Campo Santa Maria Formosa), a popular square filled with cafes and bars. Enjoy dinner at Osteria Bancogiro, known for its excellent location overlooking the Grand Canal.

Discover some lesser-known gems starting with Scuola Grande di San Rocco, which houses an extraordinary collection of paintings by Tintoretto. The early morning visit allows you to appreciate these masterpieces in peace.

Have lunch at Trattoria da Romano on Burano island, famous for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition. Afterward, explore Burano (Burano) itself; it's one of Venice’s most picturesque islands.

Return to Venice for an evening stroll along the Zattere promenade (Venetian Lagoon (Laguna Veneta)), offering beautiful views across the lagoon. Dine at Ristorante Riviera, which provides both delicious food and stunning sunset views over the water.

Begin your exploration of Florence with a visit to its most famous landmark: Florence Duomo (Florence Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria dei Fiori)). Climb up Brunelleschi's Dome (Brunelleschi's Dome (Cupola del Brunelleschi)) for panoramic views over Florence.

For lunch, head to All'Antico Vinaio, renowned for its mouth-watering sandwiches made with fresh local ingredients. Post-lunch, explore Piazza della Signoria (Piazza della Signoria), home to numerous statues including Michelangelo’s David replica.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk across Ponte Vecchio (Ponte Vecchio), Florence’s oldest bridge lined with jewelry shops. End your day with dinner at La Giostra, offering traditional Tuscan cuisine in an elegant setting.

Start your day with a visit to the renowned Uffizi Galleries (Gallerie degli Uffizi). This world-famous museum houses an unparalleled collection of Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

For lunch, dine at Trattoria Mario, a beloved local spot known for its hearty Tuscan dishes. Afterward, explore the nearby Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia), home to Michelangelo's iconic statue of David.

Spend your evening in the charming Oltrarno district (Oltrarno), known for its artisan workshops and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at Osteria Santo Spirito, offering delicious Italian cuisine in a cozy setting.

Florence Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni) is a must-see with its stunning mosaics and intricate bronze doors. Start your day here to avoid the crowds.

Cibreo Ristorante is perfect for lunch, offering traditional Florentine dishes with a modern twist. Afterward, visit Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall that offers fascinating insights into the city’s history and politics.

Piazzale Michelangelo provides one of the best views over Florence. Head here for sunset and enjoy the breathtaking panorama. For dinner, dine at Buca Lapi, one of Florence’s oldest restaurants known for its classic Tuscan fare.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella (Basilica di Santa Maria Novella) is an architectural gem with beautiful frescoes. Start your day exploring this historic church.

Gustapizza is a popular spot for lunch, famous for its delicious wood-fired pizzas. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli), which offer stunning landscapes and sculptures.

Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti) is another must-visit site in Florence. Spend your evening exploring this grand palace before heading to dinner at Ristorante Ora d'Aria, known for its innovative Italian cuisine.

Start your day with a scenic boat tour of Lake Como. The lake is renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and luxurious villas. A boat tour offers the perfect way to take in the beauty of the area.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a lakeside restaurant in Bellagio, often referred to as the 'Pearl of Lake Como.' Afterward, explore the picturesque streets of Bellagio and visit Villa Melzi with its beautiful gardens.

In the evening, head to Varenna, another charming village on Lake Como. Stroll along the lakeside promenade and enjoy dinner at a local trattoria offering traditional Italian cuisine.

Explore Monterosso al Mare, one of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre. Known for its beautiful beaches and historic center, Monterosso is perfect for a morning stroll along its picturesque streets.

Lunch at Ristorante Miky, renowned for its seafood dishes and stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. After lunch, hike along the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) to Vernazza, another beautiful village in Cinque Terre.

Relax in Vernazza, enjoying an evening aperitivo by the harbor. For dinner, dine at Ristorante Belforte, offering delicious local cuisine and breathtaking views over the sea.

Start your final day in Italy with a visit to the beautiful village of Manarola. Known for its colorful houses and stunning coastal views, Manarola is one of the most picturesque spots in Cinque Terre. Take a leisurely walk along the Via dell'Amore (Lover's Lane), a scenic path that offers breathtaking views of the sea.

For lunch, head to Ristorante Belforte, located in Vernazza. This restaurant offers delicious local cuisine and stunning views over the sea. After lunch, explore Vernazza's charming streets and visit its historic church, Santa Margherita di Antiochia.

End your day with a relaxing evening in Riomaggiore, another beautiful village in Cinque Terre. Enjoy an aperitivo by the harbor and watch the sunset over the Ligurian Sea. For dinner, dine at Ristorante Dau Cila, known for its fresh seafood and romantic setting.