The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary

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From it’s ancient Roman ruins to the sprawling vineyards that seem to go on forever, to hiking in Cinque Terre, Italy has an allure that makes it a dream destination for so many people, myself included.  That’s probably why it is on so many people’s Europe Bucket List.

Italy is a magical land filled with fascinating history, passionate people, and amazing food, some of the many reasons that so many Italy experiences are on our couple’s bucket list.  Serve all of that up with some incredible Italian wine and you have an awesome setting for the perfect 10 day Italy itinerary!

Spending 10 days in Italy is a great amount of time to be introduced to what this fabulous country has to offer.  Honestly, you won’t get to see everything in 10 days, so don’t even try.  This will only stress you out and besides, everyone I know who has visited always returns.

Of course, there are certain things you should know when traveling to Italy for the first time, so after checking those out, then don’t be afraid to make the Italy itinerary your own, cut a day here and add a day there as needed, but I recommend not including more than 3 hotel changes during your stay. 

Keep in mind that every time you change cities and hotels that you lose approximately half a day of sightseeing, so be cautious of that.

If you have more than 10 days in Italy, you might want to head to the best places in The Dolomites at the end of your trip.  Of course, 2 days in Milan or some time exploring the Italian lake region are other great options!

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How Many Days to Spend in Italy?

How many days to spend in Italy, you say? Um…forever!!  Well, at least that would be my answer if I had the choice, especially if I could just live on the island of Capri!  Seriously, Italy is one of those places that will just steal your heart so I don’t know if there is ever enough time here.

For our first trip to Italy, we spent over three weeks.  I know that this is not realistic for everyone, as most Americans average about 2 weeks of paid vacation a year.  That’s why we made this an itinerary for 10 days in Italy. 

This will allow you to have a great introduction to the country and not have to go at too fast of a pace while visiting.

Planning Your 10 Days In Italy Itinerary

There is a lot that goes into planning a trip overseas, we are well aware of that.  We also understand how stressful this process can be.  You can easily follow our 10 day Italy itinerary or choose to develop your own by adding to or taking away from our suggestions. 

If you have extra time, I would definitely recommend adding in some of Italy’s off the beaten track destinations like Castelluccio or Matera.

Of course, you can also go your own way and plan a completely different Italy itinerary if you choose to do so.  The options are endless!

We have visited Italy several times.  Somehow I keep convincing Marty to go back and add it to every trip we take to Europe.  I wonder if he has noticed yet?! 

No matter what you choose to do, once you have decided on the best 10 day Italy itinerary for you then be sure you do your research on the area to ensure that you get to see and do all that you are hoping for.

Use the large towns that we mention in this Italy itinerary to make your home base from, but definitely take time to see the small towns in Europe as well.

When is the Best Time to Visit Italy?

Anytime!  It’s Italy! ?

No, seriously, when is the best time to visit Italy? This can be a tricky question.  It’s always hard to answer this in my opinion. 

It all depends on what you like and what your expectations are of an area, so really, only you can decide the best time to visit.  We can provide you with the following information to maybe help you make the decision though!

Summer in Italy can be hot, crowded, and more expensive as it is the most popular time to visit. 

So if you want to spend time in the big cities, as our Italy travel itinerary suggests, then you may consider visiting in the shoulder season instead. 

The shoulder season in Italy is April-May and September-October.  During this time, the temperatures are mild and there are fewer tourists. This helps prices to decrease and might make for a more enjoyable experience for you.

Transportation Options for your Italy 10 Days Itinerary

One of the many things that I love about Italy, well really all of Europe, is the ease of travel. 

Train travel between cities and even between countries is a great way to travel.  It is relaxing, efficient, and economical. 

Just be sure that you follow our tips mentioned below when traveling by train throughout Italy.  You definitely don’t want to mess up and have to pay a fine while on vacation!

If you are not following our 10 day Italy itinerary, then be sure to research the areas that you choose as some areas will require you to rent a car.  For example, if you are traveling to the northern mountains, then you will be better served by having a car.

Top Tips for Your 10 Day Italy Itinerary

Any 10 day trip to Italy has to include Rome, especially if it is your first time in the country. You know, there are many things that you need to know before visiting Rome.  Here are just a few:

• Be sure and validate your train tickets!
• The euro is the currency used in Italy. Save yourself on exchange fees by researching “sister” banks to yours and withdrawing money from the ATM instead of using a currency exchange.
• Talk to the locals and take their advice on where to eat and local things to do.
• Be mindful that most restaurants and a lot of businesses close during the afternoon/early evening.  Plan your meals accordingly.
• Learn some basic words in Italian and use them while there.
• Relax and enjoy the experience!

Perfect Itinerary for 10 Days in Italy

Italy Itinerary Day 1:  Fly into Rome

Getting from Fiumicino Airport to Rome

Rome actually has two airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino.  Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci Airport) is not only the international airport in Rome, but it is the largest.  To get into the city, you can choose to take a train, shuttle bus, taxi, or private transfer.

Train

The Leonardo Express is a direct train that connects the Fiumicino airport with Rome’s Termini station.  The trip takes about 30 minutes and tickets cost 14 euros each way. 

If you want to save some money, choose to take the regional train instead.  The Regional FL1 train connects the airport with other stations in Rome, but not the Termini.  Tickets for the regional train cost 8 euros.

Shuttle Bus

The cheapest way to travel between the airport and Rome is to take the shuttle bus.  The shuttle bus stops at the Termini and the Pizaaz Cavour which is near the Vatican. 

Although this is the cheapest option, it is also a really slow option in comparison.  The trip on the shuttle bus takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Tickets cost 6 euros one way.

Taxi

For a fixed price of 48 euros each way, you can take a taxi.  If choosing this option, be sure you use the official taxi services.

Private Transfer

We usually choose a private transfer as it is quick and convenient.  You can book your service online before you leave home and the driver will be waiting for you when you arrive.  Now that’s service!

Where to Stay in Rome

When choosing where to stay in Rome, the location is key.  Booking a good place that is centrally located and close to the sights that you are interested in will save you valuable vacation time. 

Of course, do your research and find the area that works best for you. We always love visiting Tripadvisor to read reviews and research new cities before we visit.

Hassler Roma 

Hassler Roma is in a great location, right in the heart of the action.  Located at the top of the Spanish Steps, Hassler Roma gives you easy access to several must-see sights as well as comfortable rooms and yummy breakfast.

Baglioni Hotel Regina 

Baglioni Hotel Regina is within a one-mile walk of the Spanish Steps, The Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.  The hotel offers a spa, fitness center, and a Turkish bath right on sight. With friendly staff and extra amenities, this hotel is a sure win.

Hotel Artemide

Hotel Artemide is a luxurious hotel to make your home away from home while in Rome.  With soundproof rooms, flat-screen TVs and complimentary in-room wifi, Hotel Artemide is top-notch.  Guests can indulge in the buffet breakfast, the full-service spa, or sip a drink on the terrace.

Check Prices on Booking.com                    Check Prices on Hotels.com

Of course, you can always opt to stay like a local by finding a great apartment or guest room on Airbnb.  Never used Airbnb?  Well, you’re in luck.  Click here to use our link and get $55 off of your first booking!

Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps

Get a good feel for your surroundings by taking a leisurely stroll in the neighborhood around your hotel. 

Grab your first real Italian meal before heading for the sights for today.  And by real Italian meal, I mean get off of the tourist path.  Ask the concierge at your hotel where they would go and take their family, that’s how you know it is a real Italian meal!

You can easily explore the items on today’s list on your own, but if you prefer to hear the history and stories associated with these monumental landmarks, then consider taking this best of Rome walking tour.

Trevi Fountain

Sure to lure you into the romance of Rome (well, after you elbow your way past all of the people), the Trevi Fountain is a must-see sight for any visitor to Rome.

Dating back to Roman times, the Trevi was built at the endpoints of the Aqua Virgo Aqueduct where the three streets met.  Standing a massive 85 feet tall and almost 65 feet wide, the fountain spills out about 2,824,800 cubic feet of water daily.  That’s a lot of water.

Stand and admire the beautiful statues before taking an iconic selfie in front of one of the world’s most recognizable fountains.  If you want a picture of the fountain without all of the tourists in the way, just wake up early one morning and make this your first stop!

Pantheon

Make your way to the incredible Pantheon after visiting the Trevi.

The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved and influential buildings in Rome.  Built between AD 118 and 125 by Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon is still a marvel to architects today.  The fascinating architecture and history of the structure definitely kept us in awe during our visit.

We couldn’t really figure out why, but the Pantheon brings Marty to tears, LITERALLY.  Even after returning home, all he has to do is think about the Pantheon and he starts to cry. I tease him that he must have built it in a former life?!  Go give it a visit and see if you have the same reaction!

If you are interested in learning more about this fabulous structure, then consider taking a guided tour of the Pantheon.

Day 2 of Your Italy Itinerary:  Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Colosseum

Today you are in for quite a treat, but a busy day.  Put on your best walking shoes and get ready to visit the most famous sights of Ancient Rome. 

Visitors flock to Rome from all over the world to see the ancient sites left behind from when the Roman Empire ruled the world.  It is truly amazing to see these structures still standing! 

Today you are going to spend the day experiencing some of the best and most popular sites in Rome, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and of course, Rome’s Colosseum.

I recommend you read our Guide to Ancient Rome before going any further.  This post outlines a more detailed itinerary and also gives you tips for skipping those long lines!  Even if you only have 2 days in Rome, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum are must-do items for your trip!

The Colosseum

An iconic symbol of Rome, the Colosseum stands in the middle of the bustling city serving homage to the past.  Started by Emperor Vespasian around A.D. 70-72, the Colosseum was a gift to the Roman people.  The Colosseum was a site to various “games” including gladiator fights and exotic animal “hunts” that were used to entertain the Roman people. 

Today, you can still see the tunnels (that used to be used on the colosseum floor) where the gladiators and wild animals were housed before the show.

Visitors are allowed to roam the stands and “public” areas with a general admission ticket, but if you want to get down into the tunnels then you have to take a guided tour like this one.  While a general tour of the Colosseum is great, there is nothing like having access to the tunnels and seeing the colosseum from the gladiator’s point of view!

Palatine Hill

Located above the Roman Forum with an entrance just outside of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill is definitely not to be missed.  Palatine Hill was the home of Rome’s rich and famous! 

Granted today, you have to use a little bit of imagination to get the full picture, but trust me, there is still plenty to see here.  Palatine Hill had been inhabited since 1000 B.C.  And according to legend, this is where Romulus and Remus were raised.

For you see, this was prime real estate back in the early days of Rome.  Situated high upon this hill, the residents could escape the noise and grunge of the city below. 

Today visitors find the remains of luxurious villas and a stadium.  Visitors are welcome to roam around on their own, but if you want a more in-depth lesson on what you are looking at on Palatine Hill then you should definitely consider a guided tour.

The Roman Forum

The final stop on our tour of Ancient Rome is the Roman Forum.  I know, today has already been a busy day, but don’t give up on me yet.  The Roman Forum is spectacular and so worth your time, I promise!

The Roman Forum was the hub of life in the Roman Empire.  This is where all of the important decisions were made regarding ruling, politics, and even religion. 

It was also here that people traded their goods and worked to make money.  This was the heartbeat of Rome!  It wasn’t until the 20th century that archaeologists began uncovering this amazing piece of Roman history, and it is still an active dig site today with new discoveries being made!

You can walk around the “streets” that Caesar walked on and see the remains of the temples, the arches, and the Senate House.  Like the other areas today, the Forum can be explored on your own and our post on Ancient Rome outlines some of the highlights for you. 

But if you really want to know the history and hear the stories from this area, then take a guided tour and learn from the expert.

Day 3:  Vatican City

On day 3 of your Italy itinerary 10 days, it’s time to visit the smallest country in the world, Vatican City!  Home to the Pope and a pilgrimage site for millions of Christians, a trip to Vatican City is a must while in Rome.

Insider tip-Be sure that you are dressed properly for your visit though-no bare knees or shoulder allowed.

Since lines often average over three hours long, your best bet is to schedule a Vatican tour.  A tour will allow you to skip the line and will give you an expert guide to explain all of the overwhelming beauty that you are going to experience. 

Note that midmornings tend to be the busiest, so try to book your tour in the afternoon if possible.  Marty and I did the after-hours tour and had a fabulous time.  The crowds were smaller so we had more time to experience the beauty of the Vatican without fighting for a spot.  LOL!

Honestly, we didn’t make it to the Vatican on our first trip to Rome because I didn’t have appropriate clothing and we didn’t plan ahead well enough.  We went back to Rome a couple of years later just to visit the Vatican.  This time I was prepared and we booked our tour ahead of time to ensure that we had a great experience.

It’s important to know that they are closed Sunday, except for the last Sunday of the month. While here, take in all this area has to offer.  See St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museum.

Day 3 Alternate Choice- Day Trip or Food Tour

If you are not interested in visiting the Vatican, then you might want to consider taking a day trip out of Rome today.

Day Trip to Tivoli

We visited the town of Tivoli during our time in this area and absolutely loved it.  Tivoli is a short train ride outside of Rome that is well worth your time. 

Tivoli is most famous for the Villa d’ Este, a gorgeous estate that boasts incredible gardens.  The Villa d’Este was built in 1550 for the son of Lucrezia Borgia, so you know it is going to be over the top!  Today, the gardens of Villa d’Este are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you visit you will understand why.

Tivoli is most famous for the Villa d’ Este, a gorgeous estate that boasts incredible gardens.  The Villa d’Este was built in 1550 for the son of Lucrezia Borgia, so you know it is going to be over the top!  Today, the gardens of Villa d’Este are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you visit you will understand why.

If you are choosing to spend some time in Tivoli, don’t miss Villa Gregoriana as well.  Don’t let the name fool you as Villa Gregoriana is actually more like a park than just a villa. 

Here you can see remains from the villa on your way down into a canyon with beautiful greenery and waterfalls.  Just remember, if you hike down, you have to hike back up!

You can read all about our time in Tivoli here in this in-depth post.

Day Trip to Capri

Ok, I am warning you now, if you choose to do this day trip, you need to get up early as it is going to be a long day!  The island of Capri, Italy is one of my absolute favorite places on Earth! 

And it will make for a really long day, but if you’re feeling adventurous, then why not go for it?

Get a ticket to Naples on the fast train leaving from Rome’s Termini.  Once in Naples, follow our guide on taking the Naples to Capri ferry and get on the FAST BOAT to Capri.  Once you arrive on Capri, enjoy one of the most beautiful places on Earth. 

Visit the blue grotto, taste limoncello, and take the chair lift to the top of Mont Solaro for some of the most incredible views you have ever seen in your life.  If you want to devote more time to this beautiful island, then please do so as Capri at night is even better. 

Although we only spent 24 hours in Capri, I fell in love with this slice of Italian paradise!

Food Tour in Rome

Taking a food tour in any city is a treat.  I mean we have done them in Dublin, Galveston, and Savannah, just to name a few.  I will tell you though that there is nothing like a food tour in Rome. 

Not only do you get to eat amazing food and try amazing Italian cocktails, but you are also introduced to new places and neighborhoods that you might not normally have visited.

We so loved our Roman food tour with Secret Food Tours that we highly recommend it to you all as well!

Day 4: Roman Catacombs and the Appian Way

Day 4 of your Italy itinerary-10 days, takes you to the Ancient Appian Way.  This area is a great little escape from the hustle and bustle of the crowded city of Rome. 

A short bus trip from Rome and you are transported to a quiet cobblestone road that is one of the oldest in the city. It really astonishes me that the Romans built a road that lasted thousands of years, but we can’t build one that lasts more than 10 years in Texas.  LOL!

The Appian Way and the Roman Catacombs are some of the many awesome things to do in Rome that should definitely be on your Italy itinerary!

Appian Way

The Ancient Appian Way is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon in Rome.  Walking along the Appian Way makes you feel like you have been transported back in time. 

You will find yourself surrounded by crumbling monuments, small churches, and of course, walking along the oldest road still in existence today.  The Appian Way was a crucial road for Rome, serving as its connection to settlements outside of Rome. 

For it is this road that the military would use to march back into the city declaring their victory over Rome’s enemies.

Today, the Appian Way allows you to take in all of that history while visiting some great attractions, including Cecilia’s mausoleum, and the Circus Maxentius, along with the Roman catacombs.

The Roman Catacombs

There are two catacombs along the Appian Way, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the Catacombs of San Callisto. Both are fascinating and well-deserving of your time in Rome. 

The catacombs served as the burial place for the ancient Romans.  Touring them is fascinating, but not for the faint of heart or the claustrophobic.  You see, your guide will lead you underground through tight tunnels where you are surrounded by earth and burial plots to show you the intricacies of the catacombs. 

Marty and I loved this portion of our trip and found it to be fascinating!  Even if you only have 2 days in Rome, you should consider visiting the catacombs.

Day 5 of Your Italy Itinerary-10 days:  Rome to Florence

Train from Rome to Florence

Today you are saying farewell to Rome and heading to Florence, one of the must-see towns in Tuscany.

We have outlined our favorites below and in our 2 days in Florence post, but you can also use this Florence Itinerary to help you plan your time here.

Frequent trains run from Rome to Florence, so you’re in luck.  Grab your ticket at the main Termini station in Rome and you’re on your way. 

We find it most convenient to book our tickets from home using raileurope.com. If you didn’t know, train travel throughout Europe is a great way to get around, and Italy is no exception. 

There are several train journey planners and booking apps available to help you plan your 10 day Italy trip.  Utilizing these during your Italian holiday will give you the confidence to use them on further, longer travels in the future.

Once you arrive in Florence, there are local buses that can get you to your hotel if it isn’t within walking distance.  I bet you’re going to be hungry when you arrive in Florence, so be sure to check out this Florence food guide for the best eats in town!

Where to Stay in Florence

You have several options to choose from when planning where you will stay in Florence.  Would you like to stay in the city center, the surrounding countryside, or outside of the center but still in the city?

Marty and I usually prefer to stay in the city center as we like being able to walk to the attractions.  Here are some of the top hotels in the city center:

Hotel Orto de Medici

Boasting large, clean rooms in a great location, you are sure to love this hotel.  Their breakfast includes pastries, cappuccino and fresh squeezed OJ, the perfect start to your day!

Hotel dei Macchiaioli

This budget-friendly hotel is just over a block from the Academia and two blocks from the Duomo.  You can also easily walk to the rail station from here.  All of this combined with good sized room and a great breakfast make this hotel well worth the money.

Hotel Mona Lisa

Another hotel in a great location was excellent customer service is the Hotel Mona Lisa.  The historic building and antique furniture make you feel like you are in Italy for sure!

Of course, you can always choose to stay with Airbnb and have a whole apartment or home for yourself!  Use our link to get $55 off of your first booking!

Day 5: Florence-Duomo, Explore Florence

After checking in to your hotel, it’s time to get out and explore Florence, a must on any 10 days in Italy itinerary.

Start by visiting the famous Duomo, also called the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore.  This complex houses the nave, Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery, so plan on spending some time here exploring.

After gawking at the beautiful frescoes in the Duomo, climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome for a great view of Florence.

Next, make your way to the Baptistery, one of the oldest buildings in Florence where you are greeted with some gorgeous brass doors.  If you’re up for another climb, make your way up Giotto’s Bell Tower for another great view of the city!

Spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring Florence.

For a great introduction to the city, consider taking this Best of Florence Walking Tour.  This tour combines the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Accademia Gallery.

For an awesome evening, take the Medieval Florence Evening Walking Tour.  This 2-hour walking tour takes you through the city while sharing the wonderful history of the Medici family and visiting a great gelato shop!

You might want to consider spending some of your downtime seeing the best views of Florence!

Day 6 of Your Italy Itinerary-10 Days:  Day Trip to Tuscany or Cinque Terre

While planning your 10 day Italy itinerary, you definitely want to book your Cinque Terre accommodations as soon as possible as they fill up quickly.  We’ve outlined some of the best in this post to help assist you.

For day 6 of your Italy 10 days itinerary, you have the option of taking a day trip to the beautiful Tuscan countryside to tour some small towns and do some wine tasting, or head to the coast to experience Italy’s beautiful Cinque Terre region with a day trip to Cinque Terre.

Choosing just one is a hard thing to do.  Tuscany is sprawling with gorgeous vineyards, rustic charm, and medieval towns, while Cinque Terre is made up of five gorgeous hillside villages that are just picturesque.

Consider the Tuscany in one day trip where you can enjoy Siena (home to some of the most beautiful churches in Europe, San Gimignano, and Pisa before having lunch and wine in Chianti.  Ahhhhh-does it get any better?

If you’re opting for the Cinque Terre trip, this Cinque Terre in a day is a great way to go!  You can soak up the views and swim in the beautiful turquoise water of the Italian Riviera. 

Of course, if you would rather travel on your own, then check out on guide on how to easily get from Florence to Cinque Terre.  If you have longer to spend in Cinque Terre, then read 48 Hour Guide to Cinque Terre.

Day 7 of Your 10 Day Italy Itinerary:  Florence-Uffizi Museum, San Lorenzo Market

On day 7 of your Italy in 10 days itinerary, you will get to spend more time getting to know Florence.

Start your morning with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous museums in the world.  This former home of the Medici family is now a sprawling art museum with famous works from Leonardo di Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael just to name a few.

After exploring the gallery, do some shopping in the San Lorenzo Market.  San Lorenzo is a great outdoor market that is perfect for finding leather, souvenirs, and pottery.

If you have more time to devote to, then one week in Tuscany is a great way to see this portion of Italy while still relaxing.

Day 8:  Venice

Train From Florence to Venice

Get excited!!  Today you’re headed to Venice (one of my favorite Italian cities)!  Catch the train and settle in for your trip to Venice. 

Once you arrive and are about to exit the train station, be prepared to be amazed!  From the moment we stepped off of the train, Venice had me in its trance.

If you have extra time, you might want to consider a side trip to Italy’s lake region and consider hiking by Como lake.

Where to Stay in Venice

If you’ve read our post about our 3 days in Venice, then we tell you all about where Marty and I chose to stay while in Venice. We loved our little bed and breakfast because it was off the beaten path.  If you prefer to stay somewhere more centrally located, don’t worry, Venice is full of charming places!

Here are some recommendations:

Hotel Palazzo Stern

This boutique hotel which was converted from a palazzo is a great place that is centrally located, but far enough away to avoid some of the crowds.  Close to the vaporetto and attractions, this makes a great home base for exploring Venice.

Hotel Mercurio Venezia

A more budget-friendly option is the Hotel Mercurio Venezia.  Within walking distance to all the attractions, a great breakfast, and rooms overlooking the canals, you’re bound to enjoy your stay here.

Of course, we always prefer to stay like locals, and the best way to do that is with Airbnb.  Be sure and use our code to save $55 off of your first booking.

Day 8:  Venice-Grand Canal Tour, Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, Bridge of Sighs

We are hitting the ground running in Venice.  While I know that it’s going to be crowded, the sights we have planned to see today are must-see sights of this great floating city.

Grand Canal Tour

Begin by taking a tour of the Grand Canal.  This can be done easily and cheaply by hopping the #1 or #2 Vaporetto. 

This is a great introduction to the city and an easy way to take some awesome pictures.  Do note that this is a water taxi, so it will be stopping at several stops along the way. If you prefer you can also book a private Grand Canal tour.

Riding down the Grand Canal allows you to quickly and easily see the charm and beauty of Venice.  The narrow waterways leading off venture around corners, making your imagination wonder what is around each bend. 

The people are bustling along, going about their daily lives, while Vaporetto and boats whiz by you.  This is truly Venice and a one of a kind experience. 

Even if you only have 2 days in Venice, you have to do a Grand Canal tour!

St Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica and The Bridge of Sighs

Conclude your Grand Canal Tour at St. Mark’s Square.  Here we are going to see the iconic Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, and St. Mark’s Basilica.

When you exit the Vaporetto you will be in the prime spot to get an epic picture (and selfie) of the Bridge of Sighs before heading into Doge’s Palace.

Doge’s Palace

After taking your photo, make your way to Doge’s Palace.  First commissioned in 1340, and extensively modified throughout the years, Doge’s Palace was home to numerous Doge’s who ruled over Venice throughout history. 

Inside you will find a gorgeous structure containing numerous works of art, the Doge’s apartment, Institutional chambers, and of course, the famous Bridge of Sighs that leads to the jailhouse.

Now, if I were you, I would book the Doge’s Palace Secret Itineraries Tour prior to arriving in Venice.  This popular tour takes you through the palace, including several ‘off-limits’ places. 

You will also get an inside look at the prison after crossing over the famous Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners are said to get their last look at their beautiful city before being locked away in the prison. 

We loved visiting Doge’s Palace and feel like it is well worth the money to go ahead and book a tour so that you get a good idea of the history and importance of this iconic building.

St. Mark’s Square and Basilica

After touring the palace, head to St. Mark’s Square and Basilica.  People from Venice just call this la Piazza (the Square).  You will notice that this is a bustling square with people everywhere. 

Take in all of the action around the square, just avoid the cafes as you will pay a premium to sit in this prime location.

Looking to the east, you see the beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica with its great arches and Romanesque carvings.  I especially loved the four horses that preside over the square. 

They just exuded power and prestige in my mind.  Also, take note of the clock tower, a great spot to get some amazing views of Venice!

Feel free to check out the shops around the square and pop into the Correr Museum while you’re here, it is well worth a visit.

Before leaving, be sure to tour the beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica.  Originally built as a chapel for the Doge of Venice, St. Mark’s became a public church in the early 1800s and is now one of the most visited attractions in Venice. 

Dubbed the ‘church of gold’ due to all of the gold you see adorning the church, St. Mark’s is a sight to behold!  For an extra special treat, while not do an after-hours tour of the Basilica.

Day 9:  Day Trip to Murano and Burano

Today our 10 day Italy itinerary takes us to some of the other islands of Venice, Murano and Burano.  Murano, known for its famous hand-blown glass and Burano, famous for its handmade lace and gorgeous colorful houses are sure to make for a great outing for you today.

You can use the Vaporetto to get to the islands, but let me warn you that it is a slow trip!  If we were to go again, I would definitely book a private tour by motorboat to the islands.

Burano

The colorful island of Burano is a shutterbug’s dream.  Burano’s brightly colored houses are just screaming to have their photo taken.  Spend your time admiring these colorful gems before heading down the main street in Burano to see the ladies creating hand-made lace in the shops. 

While in Burano, you can also visit the lace museum in Burano to learn more about this fabulous craft.

Burano also has a leaning tower and many restaurants that specialize in locally caught seafood.  For a complete guide, check out our post here.  Take time to enjoy a nice meal outside before heading to Murano.

Murano

After leaving Burano, you will enjoy a short boat ride to Murano.

Here you can watch the glass artists at work creating hand-blown masterpieces.  This little island is packed with stores to find the perfect piece of Murano glass to ship home as a souvenir. 

Get to know the artists.  We found that they love talking about their craft and showing off their work!

There are many great tours offered to Murano and Burano. Find the one that fits your itinerary and budget.

Day 10 of Your Italy Itinerary-10 Days:  Venice-Rialto Bridge and Market, Food Tour, Get Lost

Rialto Bridge and Market

Get up early on day 10 of your Italy itinerary and make your way to the bustling Rialto Market.  Here you can see the locals getting their fresh fish, fresh vegetables, and flowers.

The market is open Tuesday thru Saturday from around 8:00 am to noon. 

Take time to walk the Rialto Bridge while you’re in this area.  Explore the shops while waiting for your food tour!

Food Tour

One of our favorite things to do in any city is to take a food tour.  Food tours are a great way to be introduced to some great restaurants, meet fun people, and learn a lot about the history and the culture of the area you are visiting.

We loved this Cicchetti and wine tour.  It was so fun to get to taste so many of the local specialties while being led around by a knowledgeable, local guide.  I highly recommend it.

If that particular tour isn’t for you, don’t worry there are several Venice food tours to choose from.

Get Lost

For your final evening in Venice, spend some time just getting lost.  Venice is such a magical place and is even more beautiful at night.  Roam around ducking into hidden alleys and passageways.  Don’t stress-you’re on an island, you can always find your way back!

This was one of our favorite things to do in Venice as we seemed to constantly find hidden gems just waiting to be photographed.

10 Day Italy Itinerary – Final Thoughts

We hope that you will take the suggestions in our 10 day Italy Itinary have helped you to plan your trip to Italy. Remember to make them your own when you explore Italy in 10 days. 

If you have more time, then include a few other day trips from your destination, or just slow down and enjoy more of the city.  We fell in love with Italy from our very first visit and have been back several times since.  I think that you will find yourself falling in love with Italy as well!

Of course, we always want to hear from you.  Drop a line below and tell us all about your experience in Italy or what you are looking most forward to on your visit!

Happy Travels Friends!

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