7-Day Itinerary for Italy: Rome, Florence & Venice

Italy is one of the most captivating travel destinations in the world, rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. If you have a week to explore, visiting Rome, Florence, and Venice will give you a perfect mix of ancient history, Renaissance art, and romantic canals. This 7-day itinerary will help you make the most of your trip while balancing sightseeing with relaxation.

Day 1-2: Rome – The Eternal City

Your Italian adventure begins in Rome, the capital city known for its historic ruins, stunning piazzas, and delicious cuisine.

Day 1: Ancient Rome & Vatican City

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. Arrive early to avoid long lines and explore the arena where gladiators once fought.

Midday: Walk over to the nearby Roman Forum, once the heart of ancient Rome, filled with impressive ruins of temples and government buildings.

Afternoon: Head to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world and home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and climb to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica for panoramic views of the city.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner in Trastevere, a charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets and authentic Roman trattorias. Try cacio e pepe or carbonara for a true taste of Rome.

Day 2: Baroque Rome & Hidden Gems

Morning: Visit the Pantheon, a stunning ancient temple that has stood for nearly 2,000 years. Then, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome.

Midday: Stroll to Piazza di Spagna and climb the Spanish Steps, a great spot for people-watching.

Afternoon: Explore the Borghese Gallery, home to incredible Renaissance and Baroque artworks by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini. Afterward, relax in Villa Borghese Park.

Evening: Catch the sunset at Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, before having dinner at a local trattoria.

Day 3-4: Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

A quick 1.5-hour train ride from Rome takes you to Florence, the heart of Tuscany and home to Renaissance masterpieces.

Day 3: Exploring Florence’s Art & Architecture

Morning: Start at the Piazza del Duomo, where you’ll find Florence’s stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo). Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome for spectacular city views.

Midday: Visit the Uffizi Gallery, home to Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpieces.

Afternoon: Cross the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops, and explore the charming Oltrarno district.

Evening: Enjoy a Florentine steak at a traditional trattoria and sip on a glass of Chianti wine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Tuscany or More of Florence

Option 1: Day Trip to Tuscany – Take a tour to the rolling hills of Tuscany, visiting medieval towns like Siena, San Gimignano, or Pisa. Enjoy a wine tasting in Chianti.

Option 2: More of Florence – Visit Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David, stroll through Boboli Gardens, and enjoy sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Day 5-7: Venice – The City of Canals

A 2-hour train ride from Florence takes you to Venice, one of the most romantic and unique cities in the world.

Day 5: Exploring Venice’s Main Attractions

Morning: Start at Piazza San Marco, home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Climb the St. Mark’s Campanile for breathtaking views.

Midday: Walk across the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, and explore the bustling Rialto Market.

Afternoon: Take a classic gondola ride or a vaporetto (water bus) along the Grand Canal.

Evening: Dine at a waterfront restaurant and try Venetian specialties like risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) or sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

Day 6: Murano & Burano Islands

Morning: Take a boat ride to Murano, famous for its glassblowing tradition. Visit a glass factory to see artisans create delicate masterpieces.

Midday: Continue to Burano, a charming island known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition.

Afternoon: Return to Venice and wander through the quiet streets of Dorsoduro, away from the crowds.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner and soak in the atmosphere of Venice at night.

Day 7: Hidden Venice & Departure

Morning: Visit the Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in Europe, or explore the peaceful Cannaregio district.

Midday: Do some last-minute shopping for Venetian masks or Murano glass before heading to the airport or train station for departure.