Florence - 15 Days Itinerary

Arrive & Check-in

Arrive in Florence, transfer to your accommodation, and check-in.

Take some time to settle in and refresh after your journey.

Confirm your arrival details with your accommodation in advance.

Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

Head to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking panoramic views of Florence, especially beautiful as the sun sets over the Arno River and the city's iconic landmarks.

Dinner in Oltrarno

Enjoy a traditional Florentine dinner in the charming Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and authentic trattorias.

Try local specialties like Ribollita or Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Uffizi Private Tour

Unlock centuries of Italian genius with an exclusive private tour of Florence’s legendary Uffizi Gallery, home to extraordinary masterpieces like Botticelli's 'Birth of Venus' and Leonardo da Vinci's 'Annunciation'.

Your expert guide will provide deep insights into the art and history. Booking link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Florence/Uffizi-Masterpieces-Private-Tour-with-Licensed-Guide/d519-305987P7?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch near Uffizi

Enjoy a light lunch at a cafe or trattoria near the Uffizi Gallery.

Florence Duomo Complex

Visit the Duomo (Florence Cathedral).

Climb Brunelleschi's Dome for panoramic city views (booking essential). Explore the Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower.

Booking tickets online well in advance is crucial for climbing the Dome, especially for a Sunday visit. Dress code: shoulders and knees covered.

Stroll across Ponte Vecchio

Enjoy a leisurely walk across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, admiring the charming shops and the Arno River.

Dinner in Historic Center

Savor another delightful Florentine dinner in the lively historic center.

Tuscan Ceramics Masterclass

Join Matteo in Montelupo Fiorentino, a town famous for its pottery, and learn the traditional techniques of making handmade Tuscan ceramics in a family business.

This masterclass offers a unique hands-on cultural experience. Montelupo is easily reachable by train from Florence Santa Maria Novella (approx. 30 min). Booking link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Florence/How-to-make-handmade-Tuscan-Ceramic-a-course-with-a-master-potter-in-Montelupo/d519-122179P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch in Montelupo

Enjoy lunch in Montelupo Fiorentino before returning to Florence.

Florence Private Tour with a Local

Embark on a flexible walking experience through Florence, crafted around your interests, discovering highlights and hidden gems with a local expert. Whether it's Renaissance architecture or local food, this tour is personalized for you.

This personalized tour is a great way to explore areas that pique your interest or uncover lesser-known spots. Booking link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Florence/Kickstart-Florence/d519-30791P765?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Dinner near Santa Croce

Dine in the vibrant area around Santa Croce Basilica, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional eateries.

Travel to Pisa

Take a morning train from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Pisa Centrale for a day trip to explore the iconic city of Pisa.

Piazza dei Miracoli

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the iconic Leaning Tower, the majestic Duomo, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale.

Take classic photos and soak in the atmosphere.

From Pisa Centrale, you can take a local bus (LAM Rossa, direction 'Torre') directly to the square, or enjoy a pleasant 20-30 minute walk. Booking tickets to climb the Leaning Tower (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187899-d195452-Reviews-Leaning_Tower_of_Pisa-Pisa_Province_of_Pisa_Tuscany.html) in advance is highly recommended.

Lunch in Pisa

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Pisa.

Try Cecina (chickpea flatbread) or other Tuscan specialties.

Arno River Walk in Pisa

Take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River through Pisa's charming city center, admiring the Lungarni (riverside promenades) and historic buildings.

Return to Florence

Catch a train back to Florence after a fulfilling day in Pisa.

Dinner in Florence

Enjoy dinner back in Florence, perhaps in the San Lorenzo market area.

Pasta Making Class with Dinner & Wine

Learn to make fresh pasta from scratch in Florence.

Enjoy a glass of wine and savor your creations with a signature pummarola sauce. A fun and interactive way to dive into Italian cuisine.

This includes the 'dinner' as part of the class, so plan for a lighter evening snack if needed. Booking link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Florence/Pasta-Making-Class-with-Dinner-and-Wine-in-Florence/d519-5584924P3?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Explore Mercato Centrale

Visit Florence's bustling Mercato Centrale.

Downstairs, browse fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Upstairs, enjoy a vibrant food court with various Italian culinary delights.

A great spot for a casual bite, coffee, or to buy local gourmet products.

Leisure & Shopping

Enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping, exploring local boutiques, or relaxing at a cafe.

Farewell Florentine Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Florence, perhaps revisiting a favorite trattoria or trying a new one before heading to your next Italian destination.

Arrive in Venice & Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Venice, likely by train at Venezia Santa Lucia station.

Transfer to your accommodation, check-in, and drop off luggage. Take a Vaporetto (water bus) for a scenic ride to your hotel.

Piazza San Marco

Begin your Venetian adventure at the iconic Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice.

Admire the architecture and soak in the bustling atmosphere.

Be aware of pigeons and potential high water (Acqua Alta) in winter months. Consider comfortable, waterproof shoes.

St. Mark's Basilica

Explore the breathtaking St.

Mark's Basilica, a masterpiece of Italo-Byzantine architecture, famous for its golden mosaics and opulent design.

Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees). Bags must be left at a nearby cloakroom. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to skip lines.

Lunch near San Marco

Enjoy a traditional Venetian lunch at a trattoria tucked away from the main square to experience more authentic local cuisine.

Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs

Discover the Doge's Palace, the former seat of Venetian power.

Marvel at its lavish rooms, art, and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the New Prison.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time and avoid long queues.

Romantic Gondola Ride

Experience the quintessential Venetian gondola ride through the narrow canals, offering a unique perspective of the city's architecture and hidden gems.

Best experienced around sunset.

Gondola prices are fixed by the city. It's common to share a gondola to reduce costs per person. Price is per gondola (up to 5 people).

Dinner in Castello

Dine in the Castello district, known for its authentic restaurants and more local feel away from the main tourist areas.

Rialto Fish Market & Erberia

Immerse yourself in local life at the bustling Rialto Fish Market (Pescaria) and the adjacent fruit and vegetable market (Erberia).

A feast for the senses, observe locals shopping for fresh produce.

Go early for the best selection and to see the market in full swing. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Rialto Bridge Views

Walk across the iconic Rialto Bridge, admiring the shops and enjoying panoramic views of the Grand Canal.

Gallerie dell'Accademia

Visit the Gallerie dell'Accademia, home to a magnificent collection of Venetian art from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including masterpieces by Bellini, Giorgione, Titian, and Tintoretto.

Consider booking tickets online to reduce wait times.

Lunch in Dorsoduro

Enjoy lunch in the artistic Dorsoduro district, known for its bohemian vibe and excellent eateries.

Dorsoduro Exploration

Wander through the charming and quieter streets of Dorsoduro, discovering picturesque canals, artisan shops, and hidden squares.

Venetian Cicchetti Experience

Embark on a traditional Cicchetti crawl, sampling Venetian tapas and local wines at various 'bacari' (wine bars) like a true local.

This is a social way to try a variety of small bites and local drinks. Stand at the bar as Venetians do!

Dinner in Cannaregio

Enjoy dinner in the lively Cannaregio district, known for its vibrant evening atmosphere and diverse dining options.

Vaporetto to Murano

Take a scenic Vaporetto ride from Venice to the island of Murano, famous worldwide for its glassmaking heritage.

Murano Glass Factory Tour

Visit a traditional Murano glass factory to watch skilled artisans demonstrate the ancient art of glass blowing.

Explore the showrooms.

Many factories offer free demonstrations, but there can be pressure to buy. There's also the Murano Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro) if you prefer.

Vaporetto to Burano

Continue your island adventure with a Vaporetto trip from Murano to the vividly colorful island of Burano, known for its brightly painted houses and lacemaking.

Lunch on Burano

Savor a fresh seafood lunch at one of Burano's charming trattorias, enjoying the island's picturesque setting.

Explore Burano & Lacemaking

Stroll through the colorful streets of Burano, take photos of the vibrant houses, and visit a lacemaking shop to see the intricate craft.

Return to Venice

Take the Vaporetto back to Venice, enjoying the lagoon views as you head back to the main island.

Dinner in San Polo

Enjoy dinner in San Polo, one of Venice's oldest districts, known for its traditional Osterias.

Morning Coffee in Campo Santa Margherita

Start your day like a local with coffee and a pastry in Campo Santa Margherita, a lively square popular with students and residents.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Immerse yourself in modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in an 18th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal, featuring works by Picasso, Dalí, Pollock, and more.

Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend visits. Closed on Tuesdays.

Lunch near Guggenheim

Enjoy a light lunch at a cafe or restaurant in the vicinity of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Zattere Promenade Stroll

Take a leisurely walk along the Zattere promenade in Dorsoduro, enjoying views across the Giudecca Canal and the open lagoon.

Teatro La Fenice Tour

Take a self-guided or audio-guided tour of Teatro La Fenice, one of Italy's most famous opera houses, admiring its lavish interior and rich history.

Check opening times, as these can change due to performances or rehearsals.

Venetian Aperitivo

Enjoy a traditional Venetian aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) with a Spritz or local wine, accompanied by small snacks.

Traditional Venetian Dinner

Indulge in a memorable dinner featuring classic Venetian dishes such as sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto).

Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Visit one of Venice's most important Gothic churches, home to masterpieces by Titian and Bellini.

A true hidden gem often overlooked by first-time visitors.

Entrance fee applies. Dress modestly.

Cannaregio District Exploration

Wander through the Cannaregio district, exploring its quieter canals, the historic Jewish Ghetto, and local shops. A great place for last-minute souvenir shopping.

Last Venetian Lunch

Enjoy a final authentic Venetian lunch, perhaps trying a dish you haven't had yet, or revisiting a favorite.

Souvenir Shopping

Browse for Venetian souvenirs, perhaps some Murano glass or Burano lace, or local food products to take home.

Hotel Check-out & Departure Prep

Return to your hotel, check out, collect luggage, and make your way to Venezia Santa Lucia station for your onward journey to Rome.

Travel from Venice to Rome

Board your high-speed train for a comfortable journey from Venice to Rome, marking the transition to the next exciting part of your Italian adventure.

Train travel is efficient in Italy. Consider packing a snack or meal for the journey.

Colosseum & Roman Forum

Explore the iconic Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and then wander through the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Roman public life.

Book tickets online in advance to skip the lines. A combined ticket often covers both sites and Palatine Hill. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.

Lunch near Colosseum

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch at a trattoria near the ancient sites.

Visit the Pantheon

Discover the architectural marvel of the Pantheon, a remarkably preserved ancient Roman temple, now a church, famous for its unreinforced concrete dome and central oculus.

Entrance is free. It can get crowded, so consider visiting earlier in the day or later in the afternoon. Dress respectfully as it is a church.

Trevi Fountain & Gelato

Toss a coin into the magnificent Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome and enjoy some authentic Italian gelato.

The fountain is often crowded, especially in the afternoon. Guard your belongings. Gelato is a must-try!

Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

Stroll around the elegant Piazza di Spagna and admire the famous Spanish Steps, leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church.

A great spot for people-watching and enjoying the atmosphere. Sitting on the steps is generally not allowed.

Roman Dinner

Savor classic Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara at a local restaurant.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Immerse yourself in the vast art collections of the Vatican Museums, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo's frescoes.

Book 'skip-the-line' tickets online well in advance to save significant time. Dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered.

St. Peter's Basilica

Explore the grandeur of St.

Peter's Basilica, an architectural masterpiece and a spiritual center. Don't miss Michelangelo's Pietà and climbing the dome for panoramic views (optional).

Entrance to the Basilica is free, but security lines can be long. Dress code strictly enforced. Dome climb has a separate fee.

Late Lunch near Vatican

Grab a quick and satisfying late lunch after your Vatican visit.

Trastevere District Stroll

Wander through the picturesque cobblestone streets of Trastevere, a charming, bohemian neighborhood known for its authentic Roman atmosphere.

Great for discovering artisan shops and beautiful piazzas. Enjoy the evening ambiance.

Dinner in Trastevere

Indulge in a delightful dinner at one of Trastevere's many traditional trattorias, known for their lively atmosphere and delicious Roman cuisine.

Capitoline Museums

Visit one of the world's oldest public museums, housing an impressive collection of ancient Roman artifacts and art, located on the Capitoline Hill designed by Michelangelo.

Offers fantastic views of the Roman Forum from a special balcony. Booking online is recommended.

Farewell Roman Lunch

Enjoy a final Roman meal before heading to Naples.

High-speed Train to Naples

Take a comfortable high-speed train from Rome Termini to Naples Centrale, enjoying the Italian countryside.

Check-in to Naples Hotel

Arrive at your accommodation in Naples, check-in, and settle in.

Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Dinner

Experience the birthplace of pizza with a delicious Neapolitan pizza dinner at a historic pizzeria.

Expect queues at popular spots, but the pizza is worth the wait!

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Excursion

Embark on a full-day guided tour to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, and then ascend the volcano for breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples.

Many tours depart from Naples Centrale. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The hike up Vesuvius can be moderately challenging.

Local Neapolitan Dinner

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a traditional Neapolitan restaurant, sampling local seafood or pasta dishes after your adventurous day.

Naples Archaeological Museum

Visit one of the world's most important archaeological museums, home to an unparalleled collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as Roman and Greek antiquities.

A crucial stop before or after visiting Pompeii to fully appreciate the context of the artifacts.

Underground Naples Tour

Explore the fascinating hidden world beneath the modern city with a guided tour of Napoli Sotterranea, revealing ancient Greek-Roman aqueducts and wartime shelters.

Dress warmly as it can be cool underground. Not recommended for those with claustrophobia. Tours run regularly.

Farewell Neapolitan Lunch

Enjoy a final taste of Neapolitan cuisine, perhaps a seafood dish or another pizza, before heading to the airport.

Departure Preparation

Collect luggage, check out from the hotel, and make your way to Naples International Airport (NAP) for your onward journey.