Embark on a captivating 14-day moderate-budget journey across Italy, blending ancient history with breathtaking coastal landscapes and unique architecture. This mixed trip invites you to explore Rome's cultural treasures and Pompeii's ruins, wander through Positano, Alberobello, and Cinque Terre, while enjoying nature walks, local markets, photography, and relaxing cafe stops.

Fly from Toulouse to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), then transfer to your accommodation.
Settle in and prepare for your Roman adventure.
From FCO, take the Leonardo Express train to Termini Station (32 mins) or a taxi/private transfer.
Step back in time at the iconic Colosseum, followed by a walk through the ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the heart of ancient Rome.
Book tickets online well in advance to secure your preferred entry time and skip long queues.
Enjoy a traditional Roman dinner in the charming Monti district, known for its cozy trattorias and artisan shops.
Explore the immense Vatican Museums, home to masterpieces like the Laocoön Group and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel.
Pre-book skip-the-line tickets online far in advance. Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Visit the largest church in the world, marvel at Michelangelo's Pietà, and consider climbing the dome for panoramic city views.
Entry is free, but there can be long security lines. Dress code applies. Dome climb has an additional fee.
Grab a quick and delicious lunch in the Prati neighborhood, just outside Vatican City.
Admire the architectural marvel of the Pantheon, a former Roman temple now a church, famous for its unreinforced concrete dome and oculus.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers and lively street artists.
Toss a coin into the magnificent Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome.
Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds.
Climb the Spanish Steps and explore the surrounding high-end shopping streets like Via dei Condotti.
Visit the stunning Borghese Gallery, housing masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio.
Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the Villa Borghese gardens.
Mandatory advance booking required, specific entry times.
Explore the grand Piazza del Popolo, an iconic oval piazza with an Egyptian obelisk and twin churches.
Experience the Italian tradition of aperitivo, enjoying a pre-dinner drink with complimentary snacks.
Take an early high-speed train from Rome Termini to Naples Centrale, then transfer to the local Circumvesuviana train directly to Pompeii Scavi station.
High-speed train to Naples (approx. 1h 10m), then Circumvesuviana to Pompeii (approx. 35m).
Spend several hours exploring the incredibly preserved ancient Roman city of Pompeii, buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walk through ancient streets, houses, temples, and amphitheatres.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there is a lot of walking involved and limited shade. Consider hiring an official guide or an audio guide.
Enjoy a casual lunch at a restaurant near the archaeological site entrance.
Travel back to Rome from Pompeii via Naples, relaxing after a day of extensive historical exploration.
Enjoy a well-deserved dinner back in Rome.
Wander through the picturesque, cobblestone streets of Trastevere, known for its charming bohemian vibe, artisan shops, and beautiful churches like Santa Maria in Trastevere.
Enjoy a traditional Roman meal in one of Trastevere's authentic trattorias.
Learn the art of making authentic Italian gelato in a hands-on class.
Several schools offer classes, booking recommended.
Enjoy a final Roman sunset, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, and pack your bags in preparation for your journey to Positano tomorrow.
Travel from the Pompeii area to Positano.
This typically involves a Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, followed by a local bus or ferry to Positano. Enjoy the scenic journey along the coast.
From Pompeii Scavi train station, take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento. From Sorrento, take a SITA bus (tickets purchased in advance from tabaccheria) or a ferry to Positano. Ferries offer stunning views but may be less frequent.
Check into your accommodation in Positano and settle in.
Afterwards, enjoy a light lunch at a local trattoria with stunning sea views.
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Positano, browsing boutiques, and descending to Spiaggia Grande, Positano's main beach. Relax by the water or take a refreshing swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Enjoy a traditional Italian aperitivo at a bar with panoramic views of Positano's colorful cliffside houses and the sparkling sea as the sun begins to set.
Savor fresh seafood and local Campania specialties at a highly-rated restaurant in Positano.
Embark on a half-day boat tour to explore the stunning coastline, hidden coves, and perhaps swim in grottos.
Many tours depart from Positano and often visit Amalfi town or Praiano.
Enjoy lunch in the bustling town of Amalfi, perhaps trying some local limoncello or fresh seafood pasta.
Take a bus or taxi up to the serene hilltop town of Ravello, known for its breathtaking views and beautiful gardens.
Visit Villa Rufolo, a historic villa with terraced gardens overlooking the sea.
Head back to Positano for your final evening.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner and soak in the magical atmosphere of the illuminated town.
Enjoy a final Italian breakfast with a view, or pick up some last-minute souvenirs before starting your journey.
This is a significant travel day across Italy.
It typically involves taking a ferry or bus from Positano to Salerno, then a high-speed train from Salerno to Bari, and finally a local train or bus (or private transfer) from Bari to Alberobello. Enjoy the changing landscapes of Italy.
Recommended route: Ferry from Positano to Salerno (approx. 30-45 min). High-speed train from Salerno to Bari Centrale (approx. 4-5 hours). Regional train (Ferrovie del Sud Est) from Bari Centrale to Alberobello (approx. 1 hour 30 min, involves a change to bus if rail work is underway, check schedules). Booking trains in advance is highly recommended.
Arrive in Alberobello and check into your unique trullo accommodation, a traditional Apulian dry stone hut with a conical roof.
Enjoy a traditional Apulian dinner, known for its fresh ingredients and simple, hearty dishes.
Spend the morning exploring Rione Monti, the largest trulli district in Alberobello.
Wander through the narrow streets, admire the unique architecture, and visit some of the trulli shops and cafes.
Visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in Alberobello, now a museum offering insight into trulli life.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, trying regional specialties like orecchiette pasta or burrata cheese.
Explore the more residential Rione Aia Piccola, where you'll find trulli still inhabited by locals.
Visit the Trullo Church of Saint Anthony (Chiesa a Trullo di Sant'Antonio), a unique church built in the trullo style.
Find a panoramic viewpoint to watch the sunset over the white conical roofs of Alberobello, a truly magical experience.
Enjoy your last dinner in Alberobello, perhaps trying a different restaurant to sample more Apulian cuisine.
Enjoy a final Italian coffee and prepare for a significant travel day across Italy.
Check out from your trullo.
Today is a major travel day, transitioning from southern Italy (Puglia) to the Ligurian coast.
This will involve multiple train connections to reach La Spezia, the main gateway city for Cinque Terre. Be prepared for a long but scenic journey.
Recommended route: Regional train/bus from Alberobello to Bari Centrale (approx. 1.5-2 hours). High-speed train from Bari Centrale to Florence Santa Maria Novella (approx. 6 hours). High-speed or Intercity train from Florence to La Spezia Centrale (approx. 2-2.5 hours). Booking all train segments in advance, especially the Bari-Florence leg, is essential for better prices and seat availability.
Arrive in La Spezia, check into your accommodation, and unwind after a long day of travel.
Grab a relaxed late dinner in La Spezia, preparing for your exploration of Cinque Terre starting tomorrow.
Journey from Alberobello (or your last destination) to Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, via train.
This will typically involve a train connection through a major hub like Rome or Florence to La Spezia, then a regional train to Riomaggiore. Enjoy the scenic coastal arrival.
Trains are the primary way to access Cinque Terre. Purchase tickets in advance for long-distance routes, and a Cinque Terre Card for local trains/paths once you arrive in La Spezia.
Check into your accommodation in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of Cinque Terre, and settle in.
Wander through the charming, colorful streets of Riomaggiore.
Explore its main street (Via Colombo), the small harbor, and enjoy the dramatic cliffside views. Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
Riomaggiore is part of the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, offering stunning natural beauty and classic Cinque Terre charm.
Enjoy a refreshing aperitivo with a view.
Find a bar near the harbor or a panoramic terrace to watch the sunset over the Ligurian Sea.
Savor fresh Ligurian seafood at a local trattoria in Riomaggiore.
Try 'Fritto Misto' (fried seafood) or pesto pasta, a regional specialty.
Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with beautiful views. Reservations recommended for popular spots.
Start your day with a scenic hike along one of the available paths (e.
g., from Riomaggiore to Manarola, if Via dell'Amore is open, or alternative higher trails). Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and terraced vineyards.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Check trail status beforehand as some paths (like Via dell'Amore) can be closed. A Cinque Terre Card is often required for the coastal trails.
Discover the picturesque village of Manarola, famous for its colorful houses clinging to the cliffs.
Walk down to the harbor and enjoy the iconic viewpoint.
Experience a unique guided walk and tasting experience in Manarola, exploring local traditions and flavors.
This activity offers a blend of local exploration and refreshment. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187819-d3961509-Reviews-Cinque_Terre_Walk_and_Drink-Manarola_Cinque_Terre_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html?m=66827
Take a short train ride from Manarola to Corniglia, the only village not directly on the sea, perched high on a cliff.
Climb the Lardarina, a long brick staircase of 382 steps, or take the shuttle bus from the train station to the village center. Explore its narrow alleys, charming piazza, and enjoy panoramic views from its terraces.
Don't miss the church of San Pietro and the Santa Caterina Terrace for stunning vistas.
Return to Manarola for dinner, enjoying the evening atmosphere.
Many restaurants offer delicious pasta with pesto or fresh anchovies.
Take an early morning train to Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages, known for its sandy beaches.
Explore the old town and the new town, and perhaps dip your toes in the sea.
This is the only village with a proper beach, ideal for a quick swim or relaxation.
Embark on a boat tour to see the Cinque Terre from a unique perspective.
Cruise along the coastline, admire the colorful villages from the water, and learn about the region's history.
Viewing the villages from the sea offers a different and stunning perspective. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187820-d13054044-Reviews-Bel_Mar_Boat_Tours_Cinque_Terre_Boat_Tours-Monterosso_al_Mare_Cinque_Terre_Ital.html?m=66827
Enjoy lunch in Monterosso.
There are many options from casual focaccerias to seafood restaurants.
Take a short train ride to Vernazza, often considered the most beautiful of the Cinque Terre villages.
Explore its charming harbor, Piazza Marconi, and climb to Doria Castle for panoramic views.
Consider climbing to the top of Doria Castle for breathtaking views of the village and coastline (small entrance fee applies).
Find a perfect spot in Vernazza to capture the iconic sunset over its picturesque harbor.
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner in Vernazza, enjoying the vibrant evening ambiance of this charming village.
Enjoy a final Italian breakfast at your accommodation or a local café in Riomaggiore.
Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping, perhaps picking up some local pesto, wine, or limoncello.
Check out from your hotel in Riomaggiore.
Take a regional train from Riomaggiore to La Spezia Centrale, then a direct train to Pisa Centrale.
From Pisa Centrale, use the 'PisaMover' shuttle to reach Pisa International Airport (PSA) for your flight.
Ensure you leave ample time for connections and airport security.
Board your flight from Pisa International Airport (PSA) back to Toulouse (TLS), concluding your incredible Italian journey.
This 14-day itinerary for Rome, Italy can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.