So, you’re finally planning that dream trip to Italy—ahh, I’m so excited for you! Italy was on my bucket list forever, and when I finally went, I totally fell in love. But I’ll be honest… figuring out how to see all the highlights in just 10 days felt super overwhelming. Rome, Venice, Florence, the coast?! Where do you even start?
That’s exactly why I put this itinerary together. If it’s your first time visiting Italy and you don’t want to blow your entire savings account (same 
), I’ve got you. This 10-day itinerary hits all the must-see cities, gives you a little taste of coastal life, and keeps things simple, smooth, and affordable. No overplanning, no 6 a.m. wake-up calls every day. Just good food, gorgeous views, and some of the most iconic places in the world.
Whether you're traveling solo, going with your partner, or grabbing your bestie for an Italian adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your time without feeling rushed or broke. Let’s get into it!
Days 1–3: Rome – The Eternal City
Welcome to Rome! 
If you're flying from the U.S., chances are you’ll land here—and honestly, it’s the perfect starting point. Yes, it’s busy and touristy, but there’s a reason people are obsessed. The history? Insane. The food? Ridiculous. The energy? Chef’s kiss.
Where to stay:
I recommend staying near Termini Station. It’s usually more affordable and super convenient for trains, buses, and getting around the city. Look for a simple Airbnb or budget hotel—nothing fancy needed because you’ll be out exploring all day anyway.
Top things to do in Rome:
Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain (yes, it’s crowded, but still magical)
Walk through the Colosseum and imagine the gladiator vibes
Visit the Pantheon—free and stunning
Head over to Vatican City (St. Peter’s Basilica is free, and totally worth the line)
Watch the sunset from Piazza del Popolo or Giardino degli Aranci (trust me, it’s dreamy)
Budget tips:
Get a combo ticket for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill—it’s cheaper together.
Skip restaurants right next to tourist attractions. Walk a few blocks away and you’ll find way better food for less.
Gelato rule: if it’s piled high and neon-colored, it’s probably not the real deal. Look for natural colors and stainless steel tins.
Days 4–5: Florence – Art, Views, and Pasta Heaven
After soaking up all the Roman history, hop on a high-speed train to Florence (about 1.5 hours). Florence has a totally different vibe—smaller, more walkable, and full of Renaissance charm.
Where to stay:
Stay near the city center so you can walk everywhere, but don’t stress if you find a cute spot across the river (in the Oltrarno area)—it’s quieter and still close to everything.
Must-do things in Florence:
Climb the Duomo or just admire it from below—it’s breathtaking either way
Walk across Ponte Vecchio and maybe window-shop some sparkly things
Check out Michelangelo’s David (if you're into art)
End the day with a sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo—bring a drink or snack and just soak it all in
Budget tips:
Skip pricey restaurants and go for a big bowl of pasta at a local trattoria—you can find amazing meals for under €10 ($11 USD)
Look for free walking tours (they're usually tip-based) to learn the history without dropping $$$
Bring a reusable water bottle—there are fountains all over the city
Days 6–7: Venice – Getting Lost is Half the Fun
Okay, now it’s time to hop on another train—this time to Venice! It’s about 2 hours from Florence, and trust me, it’s one of those places that looks just like the postcards. There are canals literally everywhere, no cars at all, and it’s way too easy to get lost—but in the best way possible.
Where to stay:
If you’re on a budget (like most of us), look for a place in Mestre. It’s right outside Venice, and you can take a quick bus or train into the city each day. Way cheaper than staying on the island itself.
Top things to do in Venice:
Take a ride on a vaporetto (water bus) down the Grand Canal—way cheaper than a gondola and still so scenic
Explore St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica, and Doge’s Palace
Walk across the Rialto Bridge and snap a classic canal photo
Just wander. Venice is made for slow, no-plan exploring
Budget tips:
Gondolas are beautiful but pricey (like €80 or $90 USD+ for 30 mins)—grab a €2 (roughly $2) traghetto instead. It’s the same kind of boat and locals use it to cross canals.
Pack snacks and have a picnic by the water instead of paying for overpriced meals near tourist areas
Days 8–10: Coast Time! (Choose Your Adventure)
You’ve seen the cities, now it’s time to slow things down and soak up some coastal magic. You can pick between two totally dreamy destinations: Cinque Terre (colorful cliffside villages) or the Amalfi Coast (those famous lemony vibes). Both are stunning—you seriously can’t go wrong.
Option A: Cinque Terre – Colorful, Chill, and Totally Instagrammable
From Venice, take the train to La Spezia (around 5–6 hours with transfers). This will be your budget-friendly base to explore Cinque Terre.
What to do:
Visit all 5 villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore
Hike between towns (or take the little local train if hiking’s not your thing)
Grab focaccia, wine, and enjoy it while watching the sunset over the sea
Budget tips:
Buy a Cinque Terre Card—it covers train rides between the villages and hiking trails
Skip sit-down meals and try local street food (hello fried seafood cones
)Stay in La Spezia or even Levanto to save money, then day-trip in
Option B: Amalfi Coast – Positano, Lemons & Breathtaking Views
If you choose this route, take the train from Venice to Naples (about 5.5 hours), then hop to Sorrento or Salerno as your home base. From there, you can explore the Amalfi Coast towns easily.
What to do:
Visit Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Sorrento
Chill on the beach with gelato in hand
Take a boat tour or hop on a ferry for coastal views
Budget tips:
Stay in Sorrento or Salerno for better prices (Positano is pricey!)
Use the SITA buses or local ferries to get around
Try lemon sorbet served in an actual lemon—life-changing
Wrapping it up:
There you have it—10 amazing days in Italy that mix city adventures, coastal beauty, and unforgettable food… all without draining your bank account. You’ll get a little bit of everything: ancient ruins, romantic canals, Renaissance art, and sea views for days.
I hope this helps take the stress out of planning and gets you so pumped for your trip. Italy really is one of those places that sticks with you forever—I still think about the pasta I ate in Florence like it was yesterday 
Let me know in the comments if you’re leaning more toward Cinque Terre or Amalfi!