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How To Spend 10 Days in Italy

ByZoe Grace Posted on

For me, Italy is not only a tourist spot; it’s a place of feeling that heritage lovers and nostalgia personalities can feel. This region of Europe is full of old culture, historical architecture, cuisines, mountains, and natural charms.

If you’re mapping a trip to Italy, you’re in luck because you’re going to a haven, and soon, you will feel it.

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I’ve spent many memorable moments in Italy with my husband, and today, I’m going to share with you how you can plan your 10-day trip to Italy and explore more.

I’ve covered what places to visit, where to eat, where to stay, where you will find peaceful scenic nature, and much more. 

So bookmark this post because this one is your ultimate travel guide that will make your Italy trip more memorable and exciting. 

Destinations Covered in This 10-Day Italy Itinerary

I’m personally a nature lover, which is why I love to spend more time in northern Italy. The northern part is full of breathtaking landscapes, including the Dolomites and Lake Garda, which are my favorite spots that I have never been tired of exploring. 

Then, we will gradually move towards Venice and at end at Rome. Here are the destinations that we will cover In this 10 10-day itinerary. 

  • Milan 
  • Dolomites
  • Lake Garda
  • Venice
  • Pisa
  • Florence 
  • Rome

Day 1: Arrival At Milan Malpensa Airport

After the Rome Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, the Milan Malpensa airport is the busiest air terminal. You will see many coffee shops, food points, and bars where you can get food and drinks. 

Before arrival, I suggest you pre-book the hotels near the airport to avoid inconvenience or last-minute rush. I recommend you to stay in these hotels;

After immigration, the best way to access the city center is by train. Italy has extensive train systems throughout the country, known as Trenitalia. Or if you want more relaxation than to drop your infant at the hotel, go for a cab. 

If you’re escaping from Terminal 1, the train station is located on the basement level. Follow the sign boards and internal walkway to get to the train station. 

And if you’re coming from Terminal 2, the train station just connects to the terminal via a footbridge. 

To save time and bypass the queue, I suggest you get online Malpensa express train tickets.

For solo travelers, the train is the most affordable and convenient option, but if you’re traveling with family, I suggest you get a private airport transfer to the hotel. 

After check-in at your hotel, rest for a few hours, unpack your necessary luggage, and take a bath. 

Time To Explore Milan 

You have one day and one night to stay and explore the vibrant colors of Milan. This city is a mix of historic charm, modern elegance, and cultural richness, offering a captivating blend of art, fashion, and culinary delights awaiting your discovery.

I suggest renting a car from ‘Rentalcars,’ or if you’re traveling solo, nothing beats a bike. However, during peak seasons, finding parking is a pain, so Uber should be considered during that time. 

The first place to visit in Milan is Iconic Milano Cathedral. Crowned with Gothic spires and adorned with intricate sculptures, the Milan Cathedral stands as a masterpiece of architecture and a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural significance.

This iconic architecture takes nearly 600 years to build, and it’s really a worthy visiting spot. Also, it’s a very photogenic spot for photography lovers. 

During the Afternoon: From Duomo di Milano (Milano Cathedral), move towards the Brera to explore the artistic ambiance, old boutique shops, and galleries. 

There are also so many famous cafes like La Tartina where you can savor delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. And for lunch, the Domò Sushi Milano is the best option. 

During Sunset: Before sunset, head to the Terrazza del Duomo to capture the captivating 360-degree views of Milan city. During sunset, this city looks bathed in a warm golden light, casting a magical glow over its historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers alike.

Do Some Shopping: Milano is a famous fashion capital of the world. Here, you will find many unique fashion houses, luxury brands, and influential designers. 

Move to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest and most active shopping centers in Milan. Along with exploring boutiques, don’t forget to taste the traditional Italian cuisines here. 

Navigli District: Finally, for the nightlife experience, the Navigli District is the perfect spot in Milan. It features a beautiful canal lined with bars, live music, cafes, and some old restaurants. 

During the summer days, this place gets too crowded, and it gives the feel of the famous Nashville Broadway street. 

Other Places That You Can Visit In Milan

If you have more days to stay in Milan, here are some other famous spots that you should visit. 

  • Sforzesco Castle
  • Parco Sempione
  • Indro Montanelli Gardens
  • Giuseppe Meazza Stadium
  • Arco della Pace

Day 2: Milan To Dolomites

It’s time to explore nature. Buckle up your luggage, and let’s move to the northern part of Italy– the Dolomites. 

From Milan, you can reach the Dolomites by train, private ride, or bus.

If you want to enjoy the scenic view along the roads, I prefer to go for a private transfer. This also allows you to explore more locations outside the Dolomites, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours. 

You can also take a train from Milan to Bolzano a Bressanone. From there, you can easily reach various towns in the Dolomites by bus or taxi.

Accommodations In Dolomites:

Discover the Natural Beauty: Start your day by visiting Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and explore the hiking trails.

This place has an ambiance similar to Switzerland, and it’s the most peaceful destination to unwind and chill. 

Consider taking a cable car from Ortisei or Seis to reach Alpe di Siusi if you’re not up for a long hike.

Afternoon: Next, head towards Lago di Braies, one of the most magical places in Prags Dolomites. The convenient way to reach here is a private ride, which takes around 1.5 hours. During the journey, you will witness many breathtaking views. 

Take in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of Lago di Braies against the backdrop of towering mountains. The lake’s serene beauty and crystal-clear waters make it a photographer’s paradise.

Where To Eat: The best restaurant here is the Hotel Lago di Braies. Along with high-quality food, you will see the jaw-dropping scenery from the windows and balcony. 

After lunch, head over to Adolf Munkel Weg, which has stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Lose yourselves in the embrace of nature’s beauty as you stroll hand in hand, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Move Back To The Hotel: Return to your accommodation or find a cozy restaurant in one of the nearby towns like Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena, or Cortina d’Ampezzo for dinner.

Next Day Discover Alpe di Siusi

Start your day early and head to Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and explore the hiking trails.

Have lunch at one of the mountain huts (rifugi) on Alpe di Siusi, where you can savor traditional South Tyrolean cuisine.

After lunch, drive to Lago di Sorapiss, a hidden gem nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Dolomites. It is renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise waters, which are fed by the melting glaciers of the surrounding mountains. Here, you can take some stunning photos for your Instagram. 

After that, head back to your hotel, fill up your stomach, and unwind. Tomorrow, we’re off to Lake Garda, so get ready for another amazing adventure!

Day 4 Lake Garda

Lake Garda is one of the largest lakes in Italy, located between Venice and Milan. It’s one of the most charming and heavenly spots in Italy. 

To get there from the Dolomites, you can either take a train or a private ride. From a nearby train station, take the train to Trento or Verona, and from there, hop on the bus or train to Lake Garda. 

If you don’t want to change the vehicles during the journey, then book a private ride. It’s a more flexible option, and you can explore at your own pace. 

Where To Stay Near Lake Garda 

In Gargnano, we will only spend one day, and I think 24 hours are enough to explore Lake Garda. 

Morning: Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Or, for a more advanced and luxurious experience, you can visit D’Annunzio Osteria Bistrò or Marco e Daniela Time.

Next, head to the charming town of Sirmione, located on a peninsula jutting into the southern part of the lake. Here, you can explore the Scaliger Castle (Rocca Scaligera), a medieval fortress offering stunning views of the lake.

Stroll through the old town’s narrow streets, filled with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.

Next, move to the Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of a large Roman villa situated at the tip of the Sirmione peninsula.

This place is perfect for people who love historic places. Also, this area is more photogenic, so don’t forget to bring your camera for stunning photography. 

Afternoon: In Sirmione, you will encounter many cafes. The Kento Cafe and Caffetteria Pasticceria Bistrot La Fenice give the ultimate Italian cuisine experience.

After lunch, it’s time to take a boat tour of Lake Garda, which is the dream of most tourists. In a boat, you will get a different perspective of the lake and its surrounding villages. You can also book the boat tour in advance to save time. 

Next, move to Parco Grotta Cascata Varone. This cave is incredible, featuring a stunning waterfall that cascades through a series of dramatic rock formations.

Don’t forget to bring a raincoat or poncho, as the spray from the waterfall can be quite intense. The lush surroundings and the unique experience make Parco Grotta Cascata Varone a must-visit destination.

Evening At Parco Baia delle Sirene: Head to one of the beautiful lakeside parks, the Parco Baia delle Sirene, near Garda town, to relax and take in the serene views.

This place is kid-friendly, and here you will find many exciting activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, etc. Rent a subbed for 30€ to unwind yourself and eliminate fatigue by sipping a refreshing cocktail.

Night & Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant in Malcesine, Riva del Garda, or another charming town. Savor a meal with regional dishes and local wine. 

If you want an electrifying place to enjoy, visit popular nightclubs like Desenzano and Bardolino. 

Day 5 In Venice 

One day is enough to explore the beauty of Venice. This place is full of bridges; around 400 bridges are there in Venice that link 118 small Islands. 

Venice holds a strong historical significance as a powerful maritime republic that dominated trade routes between Europe and the East for centuries. The best place for someone who loves to explore old culture and history. 

You can easily reach Venice from Lake Garda via train, private transfers, or your car rental. It’s around 200 km in distance and can be covered in 2 hours. 

Here are some of the best hotels to stay in Venice

Morning: The best way to explore Venice is by taking a ferry ride, or you can rent a gondola for a more intimate and romantic experience. 

You will find ferry stations on many Islands, and it’s super easy to get the tickets. I prefer to get the multi-day pass if you’re staying here for 2 or more days; with this, you will get on multiple rides. 

By ferry, the first place that you must visit is St. Mark’s Basilica; here, you will find beautiful churches and many architectural marvels that will leave you speechless. 

Here, you will stumble upon jaw-dropping opulent interiors that reflect the wealth, golden domes, and intricate mosaics. 

Note: Make sure to visit in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the bustling crowd. Consider purchasing “Skin the line St Marks Basilica” tickets to save time. 

Grab A At Caffè Florian: From there, walk to the Caffè Florian, one of the traditional cafes serving coffee since 1720. You will feel a 300 year back vibe in this cafe. The best thing about this cafe is its amazing ceiling and old chandeliers, which give an instant vibe.

Afternoon: During the afternoon, head to the Ponte di Rialto bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Venice, spanning the Grand Canal. The view here is more picturesque and captivating; make sure to bring your camera to take some of the stunning photos. 

This bridge will take you to Saint Mark district, the center of Venice. Here, you will find many traditional cafes and restaurants. Wandering in the streets of Venice is real fun and adventure. So make sure to lace up your shoes snugly and wear comfortable shoes. 

From there, visit the “Basilica Santa Maria della Salute”, one of the iconic spots in Venice that offers stunning views of the Canale and the cityscape. 

Night: After the evening, stroll through the streets of Dorsoduro. This place is full of vintage fashion boutiques, so you can do some shopping too. Plus, this district looks so beautiful at night. 

Day 6 In Pisa

Our next stop is Pisa, around 327 Km away from Venice. This place is famous for its leaning towers, history and culture, art, and famous Piazza deities Miracoli. 

The place is small, and you can easily cover it in one day. There are so many options to reach Pisa from Venice, like buses, rental cars, private transfers, or trains. Based on your preference, you can choose the most suitable ride. 

Best Hotels To Stay In Pisa 

Morning: The first thing to do in Pisa is visit “Leaning Towers Of Pisa”. This 56-meter tall cylindrical-shaped tower is one of the iconic architecture constructed in the 12 century. 

You can also go to the top of this leaning tower to get a panoramic view of Paisa city. This is undoubtedly the best spot to take some pictures for your Instagram feed.

The next worthy place in Pisa is the “Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta”. This cathedral will make you happy because of its stunning Romanesque architecture, intricate details, and historical significance. 

The cathedral, which was consecrated in 1118, boasts a magnificent facade adorned with intricate marble designs and an impressive bronze door created by the artist Bonanno Pisano. 

Inside, you’ll be captivated by the richly decorated interior, featuring beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and a remarkable pulpit sculpted by Giovanni Pisano.

Our next stop is the Paisa Botanical Garden and Museum, one of the best places for plant lovers. Here, you’ll discover a diverse array of plants that you’ve never seen before. This garden is so quiet and beautiful, and you will have peace of mind there. 

Afternoon: Before exploring further, you can fuel yourself by visiting a nearby cafe or restaurant. Some of the famous places to eat in Paisa are I Porci Comodi and L’Ostelllino. Here, you can grab some traditional Italian and Tuscan food. 

After lunch, visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo to see an impressive collection of artworks and relics from the cathedral complex, including sculptures by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano. 

Next, take a stroll along the Arno River. Enjoy the views of the picturesque bridges and the beautiful buildings lining the riverbanks. For me, walking in such cities is the best way to explore their culture and architecture. 

Late Afternoon: Head to Piazza dei Cavalieri, one of Pisa’s most important historical squares. Admire the Palazzo della Carovana, designed by Giorgio Vasari, and the statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici.

This place is so picturesque so don’t forget to take some photos of the historic buildings and monuments. 

Evening: End your day with a delicious dinner in one of Pisa’s charming restaurants. Consider trying places like Ristorante alle Bandierine, La Buca, or Ristorante Galileo.

Day 7 & 8 In Florence 

Your Italy tour is incomplete without visiting Florence, a magnificent city with a lot of old culture, architecture, and natural charm.

There are a lot of things to explore in Florence, that’s why I believe you should stay here for at least 2 days. 

Best hotels to stay In Florence 

Here, I’ve shared the complete two day Florence Itinerary. 

Day 9 & 10 In Rome

Our last destination on this 10-day Italy trip is Rome, a famous Italian city well known for its rich history, culture, and fashion trends. Here, you will find a lot of places to explore, a lot of stuff to eat, and many unique boutiques and shopping centers. 

I’ve mentioned a complete guide on the best things to do in Rome. 

If you’re staying for two more days, here are the places that you must visit.

  • Colosseum
  • Roman Forum
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Centro Storico
  • Saint Angelo
  • Spanish Steps
  • Palatine Hill
  • Piazza Navona

Finally, it’s time to leave Italy. Luckily, you can catch international flights from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport. I hope Italy’s charm and beauty leave lasting memories, making you eager for your next adventure. Arrivederci, and until next time!

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