Ultimate 1 Week Itinerary for Italy (Venice, Florence and Rome)

Immediately upon arriving in Venice, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty the old city holds. Venice is renowned for its labyrinthine canals, ornate bridges and storied history, it evokes a sense of romance and enchantment that beckons travelers to step into a world like no other. Once settled, head out to a local bacari (small wine bar) for some cicchetti (local tapas). Local cicchetti include marinated seafood, curated meats and cheese accompanied by local wine and some crusty bread.

Explore the canals and bridges

The most iconic bridge in Venice is the Ponte de Rialto (Rialto Bridge), which spans the Grand Canal and its bustling market. Gondola rides are aplenty in the Grand Canal, but if you’re looking for a more kid-friendly option try the water taxi for a few euro!

Before dinner head to St. Mark’s Square for an Aperol or Campari spritz, a typical Venetian aperitif.

Venice’s strategic location along the Adriatic Sea facilitated trade, wealth and cultural exchange, propelling the city-state to great artistic and economic heights before it ultimately became part of a united Italy in the 19th century. Learn more about the city’s history by starting your day at the Doge’s Palace to admire its Venetian Gothic architecture and art.

In the afternoon take a family-friendly vaporetto to the islands of Burano, for its charming houses and lace-making tradition and Murano, for glassblowing demonstrations.

Take an early train to Florence, check in to our hotel, and head to the Duomo, the most iconic cathedral in Florence. Thereafter, take a leisurely stroll to take in the charm of the small city and head to the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Start your morning with a local café and head to the Accademia Gallery to marvel at Michelangelo's David and then take a walk across the Ponte Vecchio, a historic bridge with shops. As you explore Florentine cuisine, you can’t miss dinner at ZaZa, a favorite of both locals and tourists alike.

Take an early train to Rome, check in to our hotel and head to the Colosseum ad Roman Forum to immerse yourself in ancient history, learning more about Caesar and the Roman empire. Any trip to Rome is not complete without stops at the Trevi fountain (don’t forget to throw a coin in the fountain for good luck) and the famous Spanish steps. For dinner head to Roscioli and try the Cacio e Pepe.

Explore the Vatican Museums and admire the Sistine Chapel. Visit St. Peter's Basilica and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views. Wander through Piazza Navona and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Head south to see Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius and try some famous Neapolitan pizza!