Curator’s statement
Italy is a vast country with various regions, each with its own flavors and landscapes. This ten-day itinerary (including one day allotted for travel to and from) is perfect for the first timer to Italy. The trip is equally suitable for couples, families, solo travelers and groups. The three main destinations (Rome, Florence and Sorrento) will serve as your home base hub from which to explore the classic historical landmarks and natural beauty of the areas. Designed to condense several key highlights into a short time span, this itinerary will have you touring at a moderate pace, but never so fast that you can't absorb Italy's cultural splendor and natural beauty.
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Classic Highlights in Italy
Rome: Hub One
Begin your exploration of Classic Italy in the heart of western civilization. ROME! Here you’ll tour iconic landmarks and discover some off-the-beaten-track surprises as well. I’ll place you with professional tour guides to give you the most knowledgeable insights into his amazing city. You’ll spend three days exploring the eclectic mix of modern and Ancient Rome, with a dive into the early Roman empire.
During your time before or after a tour, take your leisure time to soak in la Dolce Vita… the "sweet life" Italians are known for. A leisurely walk around any one of the districts on your own is a great way to settle into everyday Rome. Three great areas I suggest are the Monti District, the historic district including the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona or the picturesque streets of Trastavere. Each offers a unique glimpse into life in Rome and its vibrant vibes mixed with its ancient roots.
Day One: Underground tour of the Colosseum
Day Two: The Vatican - including the Sistine Chapel
Day Three: Rome Sites & Foodie Tour
Florence: Hub Two
After your time in Rome, you are off to Florence via train. I'll pre-book you on a Trenitalia Freccia Rossi to get you there in record time and comfort.
After settling into your hotel in Florence, and when you aren't scheduled for a guided tour, take your time walking around and absorb the living vibes of the Old World around every corner in the Historic Center (Centro Storico). Be sure to allow yourself time to relax for aperitivo in the late afternoon at one of the many cafes in Piazza della Republicca, Piazza della Signoria or Piazza Santo Spirito.
Spend three days soaking in the Italian Renaissance, Tuscan Food and the countryside.
Day One: Take a Walking Tour of Florence including a Climb to the Duomo. Visit the Uffizzi Gallery and the Galeria Academia to view iconic artwork from throughout the ages, including the statue of David, Botticelli’s Venus de Milo and more.
Day Two: Take a day trip tour of the surrounding medieval towns of Tuscany including Siena, Lucca, Pisa and San Gimignano.
Day Three: Cross the River Arno and visit Galileo’s home. Relax as you stroll through the Boboli Gardens with a view over the city.
Sorrento: Hub Three
Spend three days in this beautiful seaside town perched on the cliffs looking across the Messina Straits to Mt. Etna.
This is your hub for day trips to the following:
Day One: The Amalfi Coast - Take a small group tour that transports you along the Amalfi Coast, with stops to explore seven different towns and ending with an amazing local homemade meal in Ravello, the highest point on the Amalfi Coast.
Day Two: Take an early morning tour to beat the crowds as you explore Pompeii, the ancient city destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 39 AD.
Day Three: Book a boat tour to Capri to include swimming and exploring the coastline, including the Blue Grotto.
Recommended Restaurants in Italy
In your free time, explore the great family run restaurants in the Monti district of Rome. Here is a list to get your started:
La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
Traditional Roman cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.Urbana 47
Farm-to-table concept, offering fresh and seasonal dishes.Trattoria Monti
Family-run trattoria serving authentic Roman and regional Italian cuisine.Ai Tre Scalini
Popular wine bar offering a selection of Italian wines and a variety of small plates.La Carbonara dal 1906
Classic Roman carbonara and other Roman specialties.Urbana Pizzicheria
Deli offering a selection of cheeses, meats, and other Italian delicacies.Osteria Le Mani in Pasta
Known for its homemade pasta dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
Need to know
This 10 Day itinerary covers the most iconic highlights of the three most popular areas in Italy and serves as a great starting point, especially for your first time to Italy. Contact me to enlarge and adapt the itinerary to your personal preferences.
Travel Advisor
Lee Libro
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Japan by Rail: Sample of a Custom Itinerary.