Cultural Delights of Southern Europe: 11-Day Trip Itinerary

Explore the grandeur of the Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani) and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel (Cappella Sistina) with a Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket. Afterward, enjoy a delightful breakfast at Il Giardino Ristorante, known for its serene ambiance and fresh morning fare.

Continue your Vatican journey with a guided Rome Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour. After the tour, take a short walk to St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) and admire the largest church in the world. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Pasquino Bistrot, offering a mix of traditional and innovative Roman cuisine.

Witness the grandeur of the St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro) in the evening light. For dinner, experience the elegant setting and exquisite dishes at Ambrosia Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, providing a panoramic view of the city. End the night with a relaxed drink at the rooftop bar.

Spend a tranquil morning at the Borghese Gallery (Galleria Borghese), admiring its renowned collection. After the visit, enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Flann O'Brien, known for its Irish hospitality and morning offerings.

Take a leisurely walk through the Villa Borghese Gardens (Giardini Villa Borghese), the third-largest public park in Rome. Find a spot for a picnic or grab a light lunch at Roma Beer Company, offering a variety of craft beers and pub-style dishes.

As the sun sets, head to the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For dinner, savor the flavors of I Colori del Vino, a cozy restaurant known for its excellent wine selection and Italian cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to the lesser-known Catacombs of Rome (Catacombe di Roma), exploring the underground burial chambers. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Pub Cuccagna, a local favorite with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Cross the Tiber River and immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of Trastevere. Explore the narrow, winding streets and vibrant piazzas. For lunch, visit Salotto42, a stylish bar and restaurant offering a modern take on Roman cuisine.

Dine at The Barrel by Tyler, a unique dining experience with a focus on barrel-aged cocktails and a menu that complements the drinks. After dinner, take a romantic stroll through Trastevere and enjoy the lively street performances and local nightlife.

Enjoy a relaxed morning with a visit to the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), once the largest stadium in ancient Rome. Afterward, indulge in a luxurious breakfast at VyNIQUE Enoteca Regionale del Lazio, where you can sample a variety of local wines and delicacies.

Spend your afternoon exploring the upscale boutiques and designer stores on Via Condotti, one of the most exclusive shopping streets in Rome. For lunch, take a break at Apotheke Cocktail Bar, where you can enjoy a creative cocktail and a light meal in a stylish setting.

For dinner, experience the elegant ambiance and exquisite cuisine of Harry's Bar, a historic establishment known for its impeccable service and classic dishes. Afterward, take a post-dinner walk to the nearby Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps) and enjoy the charming atmosphere of the square at night.

Begin your day in Florence with a visit to the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi), home to masterpieces of the Renaissance. After immersing yourself in art, enjoy a traditional Florentine breakfast at La Prosciutteria Firenze Santa Croce, where you can savor local cured meats and cheeses.

Explore the architectural wonders of Florence with a visit to the Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and the Baptistery of St. John (Battistero di San Giovanni). Climb to the top of the Florence Cathedral's Dome (Cupola del Brunelleschi) for panoramic views of the city. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Tuscany at Trattoria ZaZa, a beloved spot for traditional dishes.

As the sun sets, take a romantic stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, and enjoy the views of the Arno River. For dinner, experience the culinary artistry of Il Latini, a historic restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and warm hospitality.

Embark on a guided tour to the picturesque Chianti countryside, known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. Visit a local winery and enjoy wine tastings, learning about the winemaking traditions of the region. For a delightful start, have breakfast at Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco, where you can enjoy a selection of pastries and a hot beverage.

Continue your exploration of Chianti with a visit to the medieval town of San Gimignano, famous for its well-preserved tower houses. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Bottega del Buon Caffè, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative dishes with a focus on local ingredients.

Return to Florence and unwind with a walk in the Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli), the beautiful Renaissance garden of the Pitti Palace. For dinner, head to Buca Lapi, one of the oldest restaurants in Florence, and indulge in their signature Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a classic Florentine steak.

Start your day in Naples with a visit to the Naples National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli), home to an impressive collection of Roman artifacts and art. After the museum, enjoy a classic Neapolitan breakfast at Pizzeria Brandi, the birthplace of the Margherita pizza.

Explore the historic center of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli) and the Church of Gesù Nuovo (Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo). For lunch, indulge in the famous Neapolitan street food at Da Michele, known for its delicious pizza and fried snacks.

Take a leisurely walk along the Naples Waterfront (Lungomare di Napoli) and enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. For dinner, experience the elegant ambiance and exquisite seafood at Mimi alla Ferrovia, a historic restaurant with a rich culinary tradition.

Embark on a guided tour to the ancient city of Pompeii (Scavi di Pompei), buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the history of the site. For breakfast, enjoy a selection of pastries and coffee at Pasticceria Poppella, a local favorite.

After Pompeii, continue to the majestic Mount Vesuvius (Monte Vesuvio) and hike to the crater for panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. For lunch, enjoy a relaxed meal at Hostaria Toledo, known for its traditional Neapolitan dishes and warm hospitality.

Return to Naples and unwind with a visit to the Castel dell'Ovo (Egg Castle), the oldest standing fortification in the city. Enjoy the sea breeze and the beautiful sunset views. For dinner, head to Ristorante Mattozzi, a historic restaurant serving classic Neapolitan cuisine in a charming setting.

Begin your last day in Rome with a visit to the Campo de' Fiori, a vibrant market square where you can soak in the local atmosphere. Enjoy a breakfast at b-cool Bistrot and Cocktail bar Roma, known for its innovative morning offerings and stylish ambiance.

Spend your afternoon exploring the lesser-known sites of Rome, such as the Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino) and the Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio). For lunch, visit Cantina e Cucina, a popular spot for authentic Roman cuisine and a wide selection of wines.

As the sun sets on your journey, indulge in a final Roman feast at cybo, a restaurant known for its elegant setting and innovative dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to the Gianicolo Hill (Passeggiata del Gianicolo) and enjoy the panoramic views of the city lights.

On your departure day, take a moment to reflect on your journey with a peaceful morning walk in the Aventine Hill (Aventino), known for its tranquility and beautiful views. Enjoy a final breakfast at Ristorante Bar del Fico, where you can savor the flavors of Rome in a relaxed setting.

If time allows, visit the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) and the Catacombs of San Callisto (Catacombe di San Callisto), immersing yourself in the history of ancient Rome. For a light lunch, stop by The Barrel by Tyler, where you can enjoy a selection of small plates and a refreshing drink.

As you prepare to depart, reminisce about your journey over a farewell dinner at zerosettantacinque, a modern restaurant with a creative menu. Raise a glass to the memories made and the experiences shared. Safe travels and arrivederci to the Eternal City.