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Follow this tried and tested Italy itinerary by train and be in for a real cultural treat! Take a memorable gondola ride along Venice's Grand Canal, explore the world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture in Florence, and tour Rome's magnificent monuments and museums.
In October, My Mum and I embarked on an unforgettable, self-guided, 8-day trip across Italy 🇮🇹 and embraced its rich cultural heritage and charm. Here, we share our travel itinerary to inspire your own self-led trip and help you to maximise your time in each destination.
Our Itinerary at a glance:
✈️ Flight from Nottingham East Midlands Airport to Venice Treviso Airport (Ryanair)
🚊 Train to Florence
🚊 Train to Rome
✈️ Flight from Rome Ciampino Airport to Nottingham East Midlands Airport (Ryanair)
✈️ Getting to Venice
I recommend Skyscanner to find the best and most affordable flights into Italy. Venice has two major airports you can fly into depending on where you are coming from and what airline you are taking.
Treviso Airport is a smaller airport used by budget airlines such as Ryanair. It is 19 miles away from central Venice. Transport to Venice is very straightforward: a connecting coach service directly outside the arrivals door links flights with Piazzale Roma, the bus terminal in Venice.
Marco Polo Airport is the main airport where International flights usually land. Situated 8 miles from Venice, Easyjet operate budget flights to the airport from the UK. British Airways also fly there.
Transport into Venice from this airport is straightforward, although, be warned that services stop at night.
Public Boats and Water Taxi
A water taxi is by far the most romantic and glamorous way to arrive in Venice - especially if your hotel is one of the grander ones and has a water entrance. Unsurprisingly, this is a very expensive option, likely to cost from €100. There is a desk at the airport run by the Consorzio Motoscafi Venezia where you can organise a water taxi.
A cheaper way to arrive in Venice by boat is to take a public ferry. A ferry service called Alilaguna runs waterbuses (motoscafi) across the lagoon to a number of the major ferry stops in Venice, including San Marco (for the St. Mark's area), Zattere and Arsenale as well as the Lido and Murano. A one-way ticket costs around €12 and a return is around €21.
Stop 1: Venice 3 Nights
Venice is a captivating city of canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture. Its romantic atmosphere, unique culture, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable experience.
Top Sites to Visit:
1. St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) is the main square in Venice. Surrounded by stunning architecture, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, the square offers a vibrant atmosphere, with live music, outdoor cafes, and bustling crowds. It is the heart of Venice and a perfect spot to soak in the city's unique charm.
2. The Grand Canal is the main waterway in Venice and a must-visit for its stunning views and unique atmosphere. Take an iconic gondola ride along the canal to admire first hand, the beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings that line its banks. This is the perfect way to glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural beauty.
Book here: Gondola Ride on the Grand Canal
3. Cross the Rialto Bridge: one of the most famous bridges in Venice, spanning the Grand Canal. It is a hugely popular spot for tourists and offers panoramic views of the canal and surrounding buildings. Built between 1588 and 1591, the 157- foot bridge is the oldest in Venice and it also happens to be one of the most popular instagram spots in the city! Don't forget your camera! 📷
4. Visit the quaint nearby islands of Burano, Torcello & Murano. Murano is famous for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking. Take a tour of the glass factory to see skilled artisans at work and learn about the intricate process of creating beautiful glass art. Burano is known for its vibrant and brightly coloured houses. Take a walk through its streets and marvel at the colourful facades, which make for great photo opportunities. Burano also has a long tradition of lace-making, and the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) showcases the history and art of lace production on the island.
5. Enjoy a Venetian Cicchetti experience. Sample the local cuisine by hopping from one bacaro (wine bar) to another, trying small plates of traditional Venetian snacks called Cicchetti ( similar to Spanish tapas). Cicchetti can include crostini, fried seafood, marinated vegetables, and more. Cicchetti are best enjoyed with a glass of local Venetian wine. Ask the bartender for a recommendation or try a traditional Venetian wine like Prosecco or Spritz.
Where To Stay in Venice
Where we stayed: Hotel Palazzo Keller 4 Star (fantastic hotel and easy reach to St Mark's Square).
Venice offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxurious five-star hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone. I highly recommend staying in the city centre. If you find yourself too far outside of that, you’ll end up back in the land of cars and buses, which ruins the magic of Venice.
Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a budget-friendly stay, be sure to check out my selection of accommodation below with 'exceptional' ratings , highly recommended by travellers globally.
High Budget Luxury Options:
Mid-Range Budget Options:
Budget-friendly Options:
What to eat in Venice
When in Venice, be sure to try some of the city's culinary delights. Start with a plate of cicchetti, small bite-sized snacks typically enjoyed with a glass of wine. Indulge in a traditional dish like risotto al nero di seppia, a black squid ink risotto. Don't miss the chance to savor a Venetian specialty like sarde in saor, marinated sardines with onions and raisins. Finish off your meal with a slice of tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert.
Stop 2: Florence 2 Nights
Florence is a city of art, history, and beauty. From the iconic Duomo to the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery, Florence offers a captivating blend of Renaissance masterpieces, charming streets, and delicious Tuscan cuisine.
🚆 Getting to Florence
For the best option, take the direct high-speed train (frecciarossa) from Venice Santa Lucia Train Station to Firenze S M Novella in Florence. This will take 2 hours and 13 minutes and takes you directly into Florence city centre. They do get very busy in peak seasons so book in advance to guarantee your seat! Booking more than two months in advance is significantly cheaper. Advanced tickets roughly €17 per person compared to €57 on the day.
Book your train here: https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html
Top Sites to Visit:
1. The Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is known for its iconic dome. Designed by Brunelleschi, the dome dominates the city's skyline and offers breath-taking views from the top. Inside, you can admire beautiful frescoes and sculptures. It is a symbol of Florence and a testament to the city's artistic and architectural heritage.
Book here: Duomo & Brunelleschi's Dome Ticket
2. Uffizi Gallery: One of the world's most famous art museums, housing an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. The huge collection of paintings is distributed over 45 museum halls and features the works of prominent Renaissance artists such as Raphael, Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian and Michelangelo. My favourite was
"The Birth of Venus" by Sandro Botticelli (image below).
Book here: Uffizi Gallery Tickets (to avoid the long queues and guarantee a timed entrance ticket, I strongly recommend you book tickets well in advance).
3. Ponte Vecchio (meaning 'the old bridge') is a medieval bridge lined with shops and is famous for its stunning views of the Arno River. It is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and offers a charming atmosphere that captures the essence of Florence.
4. Piazza della Signoria is the city's main square and is home to the Palazzo Vecchio, a magnificent medieval palace that now serves as the town hall. The square is also adorned with statues, including a replica of Michelangelo's David. It is a vibrant hub of activity, with cafes, shops, and a lively atmosphere that showcases the heart of Florence.
5. Pitti Palace is a must-visit destination in Florence for art and history enthusiasts. The palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Medici family, with its lavish rooms and stunning frescoes. The Palatine Gallery within the palace houses an extensive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. The palace's beautiful Boboli Gardens are also worth exploring, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
Where To Stay in Florence
Where we stayed: Hotel Calimala in Duomo (4 Star Stylish upscale hotel very close to the Uffizi Gallery and train station)
I highly recommend staying near Central Station so the top attractions are close by.
For a few more options, check out these hotels:
High Budget Luxury Options:
Mid-Range Budget Options:
Budget-friendly Options:
What to eat in Florence
When in Florence, be sure to try some of the city's delicious dishes. Start with a plate of ribollita, a hearty Tuscan soup made with bread and vegetables. Indulge in a succulent bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut T-bone steak. Don't miss the chance to savor a traditional Florentine dish like pappa al pomodoro or lampredotto, a tripe sandwich. Finish off your meal with a slice of schiacciata alla fiorentina, a fluffy sponge cake dusted with powdered sugar.
🚆 Getting to Rome
For the best option, take the direct high-speed train (frecciarossa) from Firenze S M Novella to Roma Termini. This will take 1 hour and 35 minutes and takes you directly into Rome Central. Booking more than two months in advance is significantly cheaper. Advanced tickets are roughly €15 per person compared to €42 on the day.
Book your train here: https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html
Stop 3: Rome 3 nights
Rome is a city of ancient wonders, where history comes alive. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, Rome offers iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere that captivates you from the moment you arrive.
Top Sites to Visit:
*A hop-on hop-off bus tour in Rome is a convenient and efficient way to explore the city, allowing you to easily access major attractions and landmarks. You can hop on and off the bus at any designated stop, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace without the hassle of navigating public transportation or walking long distances. There are lots of tour operators in Rome to choose from.
This is the bus tour we used: Hop on, Hop Off bus sightseeing tour
1. The Colosseum: a must-visit for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. As one of the greatest Roman architectural achievements, it offers a glimpse into ancient Rome's gladiatorial contests and spectacles. Its impressive size and iconic design make it a captivating sight and a testament to the power and grandeur of the Roman Empire.
Book here: Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill skip-the-line Tickets (guided tours for the Colosseum sell out quickly and I strongly recommend booking in advance. The above combined ticket includes entry to the Forum too - No. 3 on my list).
2. Vatican City: The smallest independent state in the world. Vatican City is a popular destination for its rich history, stunning art, and spiritual significance. Explore St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo and Raphael. Experience the grandeur of the Vatican and immerse yourself in the heart of the Catholic Church.
Book here: Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel (guided tours sell out quickly and I strongly recommend booking in advance).
3. The Roman Forum: Once the centre of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum is a sprawling archaeological site that showcases the ruins of temples, government buildings, and other structures where political, religious, and social activities took place. Walking through the ruins allows you to imagine the grandeur of the Roman Empire and learn about its fascinating history. It is a captivating site that brings ancient Rome to life.
4. Trevi Fountain: the largest Baroque fountain in the city, famous for its stunning design and the tradition of throwing a coin into the fountain to ensure a return to Rome. It is a magical and romantic spot that should not be missed. Take time to admire the intricate sculptures and toss a coin into the water for good luck!
5. The Pantheon: A well-preserved ancient Roman temple, the Pantheon is known for its impressive dome and stunning interior. It is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings and showcases the genius of Roman engineering. The dome, oculus, and intricate details make it a masterpiece. Inside, you can admire the tombs of famous figures like Raphael and experience the awe-inspiring atmosphere of this ancient temple-turned-church.
Book here: Pantheon Entry Ticket with Audio guide
Where To Stay in Rome
Where we stayed: Domus Liberius B&B (connected to the convention centre and within easy reach to Colosseum).
Rome offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxurious five-star hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone. I highly recommend staying in Lazio city centre so the top attractions are close by.
Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a budget-friendly stay, be sure to check out my selection of accommodation below with 'exceptional' ratings , highly recommended by travellers globally.
High Budget Luxury Options:
Mid-Range Budget Options:
Budget-friendly Options:
What to eat in Rome
When in Rome, be sure to try some of the city's iconic dishes. Start with a classic plate of pasta carbonara or cacio e pepe. Indulge in a thin and crispy Roman-style pizza. Don't miss the chance to savor a traditional Roman dish like saltimbocca alla Romana or supplì, a deep-fried rice ball filled with mozzarella. Finish off your meal with a creamy gelato or a slice of tiramisu.
✈️ Getting home
Again, I recommend Skyscanner to find the best and most affordable flights from Italy. Rome has two major airports you can fly out of depending on where you are returning to and what airline you are taking.
Rome’s Fiumicino Airport is the larger international airport so if you are returning to North America, South America, or Asia, you’ll be flying out of this Rome airport.
Rome’s Ciampino Airport, on the other hand, is used by smaller budget airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet. You will likely fly out of this airport if you are flying to other parts of Europe.
The most affordable way to travel between Rome City Centre and Fiumicino Airport is by a shuttle bus that stops at both Termini Station and Piazza Cavour, which is near the Vatican.
This cultural journey truly promises unforgettable experiences and a deeper understanding of Italy's rich history and heritage. If you find yourself in any of these fabulous cities, you will not be disappointed! Happy travels!
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