Explore Italy: Top Itineraries for a Memorable Trip

Italy's compact size belies its cultural and scenic richness. While it's impossible to see everything in one visit, travelers can choose to either sample the top highlights or delve into a specific region.

Traveling within Italy is made easier with its punctual train network, ideal for visiting major cities. However, to truly experience Italy's charm, including its quaint hilltop towns and villages, a car is indispensable.

These suggested itineraries include iconic landmarks like the Tower of Pisa and the Colosseum, as well as hidden gems that offer an authentic Italian experience. Discover Italy's treasures with these top travel plans.

1. Venice, Florence & Rome by Train

Experience the best of Venice, Florence, and Rome in a week, with a total travel time of just three and a half hours between the cities. Explore famous sites and local neighborhoods, and consider a stopover in Bologna or Siena, easily accessible by train.

2. The Hill Towns of Tuscany by Car

Discover Tuscany's legendary hilltop towns, such as Volterra, San Gimignano, and Montalcino, by car. Spend four to five days exploring medieval and Renaissance art, architecture, and the Tuscan countryside.

3. Milan to Venice by Train

Travel from Milan to Venice and stop at art and historic attractions along the way, including Brescia, Verona, and Padua. Plan at least 10 days to fully appreciate each city's offerings.

4. Florence, Prato, Pistoia, Lucca & Pisa by Train or Bus

Combine a visit to Florence with other Tuscan towns like Prato, Pistoia, Lucca, and Pisa. These destinations are conveniently connected by train or bus, allowing for a rich exploration of the region's Renaissance heritage.

5. Driving Tour of Sicily

A two-week driving tour around Sicily's perimeter offers a mix of cities, historic sites, and countryside. Key stops include Palermo, Taormina, and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.

6. The Italian Riviera by Train and Boat

Explore the Mediterranean coast from Sanremo to Portovenere, visiting seaside resorts and fishing villages. Use trains and boats to navigate the region, with possible bases in Santa Margherita or Sestri Levante.

7. Lake Garda & the Dolomite Road Driving Tour

Drive through scenic mountain villages and enjoy the holiday atmosphere of Lake Garda. This route includes stops at Verona, Trento, and Cortina d'Ampezzo, showcasing a blend of lake scenery and Alpine views.

8. Driving Tour through Emilia-Romagna from Bologna to Florence

Travel from Bologna to Florence, visiting Roman sites, Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna, Adriatic beaches, and the republic of San Marino. This scenic route over the Apennine mountains is rich in variety.

9. Driving Tour of Sardinia

Experience Sardinia's unique culture and history with a driving tour that includes Cagliari, the nuraghe, and the beautiful towns of Bosa and Alghero. Extend your trip to 10 days for a more relaxed pace.

10. Driving Tour of the Aosta Valley

From Turin to Mont Blanc, explore the Aosta Valley's Roman theater, medieval castles, and the Alps. Allow extra time for side trips to national parks and ski resorts.

Finding the Best Hotels: As you plan, consider where to stay. Check out our recommendations for Florence, Venice, and Rome.

More to See in Italy: Tailor your trip with our guides on Italy's Beautiful Gardens and Top Beach Destinations. For winter travel, see Italy's Top Ski Resorts.