My husband and I, big fans of all things Italian, just had an amazing 12-day trip through the heart of Italy. We went from ancient sites in Rome to sunny beaches on the Amalfi Coast, saw amazing art in Florence, and even rode gondolas in Venice! In this blog post we will take you through some of the highlights of our trip and share our 12-day Italy holiday itinerary for first time visitors, in case you’re planning your own Italy trip in 2024. Get ready to feel the sun on your skin, the aroma of fresh pasta in your nose, and the echoes of “ciao bella” bouncing off your ears!
Days 1-3: Roman Rhapsody
Our Italian love affair started with a bang in the Eternal City. Imagine walking into the colosseum, feeling the ghosts of gladiators in your sandals, the roar of the crowd echoing in your ears. We tossed a coin (of course!) in the Trevi Fountain, whispering our wildest wishes into its sparkling embrace. Each day was a sensory feast – the aroma of freshly baked bread from cozy panetteria mingling with the melodic symphony of Italian chatter.
Since this was our first visit to Italy, we did all the touristy sightseeing at Rome and boy, was it worth it! So here’s our 3 day Rome itinerary:
Day 1:
We started early in the morning and headed straight to the Colosseum, the city’s iconic symbol and a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Imagine this: you walk into this giant stone beast, sunlight filtering through ancient arches, and suddenly you’re transported back 2,000 years – gladiators clashing, crowds roaring, all that blood and sand drama—you can practically smell it! We even peeked into the gladiatorial school (turns out, sword practice was mandatory—no excuses!).
After exploring the Colosseum, we headed to the Roman Forum, just a short walk away and strolled through this vast archaeological site where political, social and religious activity flourished centuries ago. We wandered amongst the ruins of temples, basilicas and arches to immerse ourselves in the history of the past.
Tip: We booked our tickets 2 months in advance to dodge the queues through Getyourguide. The skip-the-line passes to Colosseum and Roman forum get booked really fast, so we highly recommend to book this much in advance to avoid wasting time in long queues.
After soaking up the vibes of the Forum, we hiked up Palatine Hill. The view from the top was like a living postcard of Rome. It was hard to believe that the emperors once strolled these very grounds. We found a tranquil oasis of gardens and ancient palaces, with breathtaking views of the Forum and Circus Maximus.
Later, we stumbled upon this tiny cafe near the Roman Forum, tucked away like a secret. The carbonara, oh the carbonara! Creamy heaven mixed with black pepper and crispy pancetta, each bite a symphony of deliciousness.
Day 2:
Next morning we found ourselves in the smallest country in the world – Vatican City. We visited the Vatican Museums which were a treasure trove of art. The Raphael Rooms and the Map Room were jaw-dropping. And, of course, the Sistine Chapel – Michelangelo’s masterpiece. The ceiling frescoes, are not just paintings, they’re swirling angels and divine light, enough to make you question your earthly existence.
If you plan to visit the Vatican museums, please pre-book a tour in advance. I recommend taking a guided tour of the Vatican with fast-track access to learn about the history and opulence of Vatican.
After visiting the museums, we took a break for lunch in the nearby Prati neighbourhood, known for its delicious trattorias and local cuisine. We also enjoyed a lemon sorbet at Gelateria del Monte, for which my taste buds are still singing odes of joy!
In the afternoon, we visited Castel Sant’Angelo, a stunning cylindrical fortress originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, and then headed to the legendary Bridge of Angels (Ponte Sant’Angelo) to enjoy a truly enchanting moment of sunset. This ancient bridge connects the city centre to Castel Sant’Angelo, creating a breathtaking crossing over the Tiber River.
Day 3:
Day 3 was all about soaking up the Roman vibes. We chilled at the Pantheon, a temple to ancient gods, then wandered through the Campo de’ Fiori market, a riot of colorful flowers and fresh produce.
Moving ahead to the Piazza Navona, a beautiful Baroque square decorated with stunning fountains, street performers and artists. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere and soaked up the energy of the city. From there, we headed to the famous Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Legend has it that throwing a coin into the fountain guarantees your return to Rome.
Top Tip: The Trevi Fountain is always swarming with tourists during the day. Come back early in the morning, at sunrise, for a completely different atmosphere. You’ll be able to enjoy this place in peace and quiet, and take photos without other people in them. Also, avoid the tourist traps directly outside the Trevi Fountain. Instead, walk 5 mins to the locals-approved Ristorante Sora Lucia and enjoy their delicious carbonara. Trust me, you’ll find the best meals off the beaten path!
Days 4-5: Amalfi Coast Serenade
We boarded a slow train from Rome and went straight up till Salerno. Trading city vibes for coastal bliss, we arrived in Salerno, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. This pastel paradise stole our hearts with its turquoise waters lapping at the shore, boats bobbing like colorful toys, and houses cascading down cliffs like a watercolor painting.
A lot of travelers usually stay at Sorrento, but I would recommend visiting Salerno instead, as it is less crowded and the accommodations are a lot more affordable compared to the popular villages of the Amalfi coast.
Day 4:
We checked-in to our hotel and then went straight up to the Salerno port to board a ferry up till Amalfi. You can easily book the ferry tickets at the port, but we recommend booking it online through the Travelmar’s website. The ferry takes only 30 minutes to reach Amalfi from Salerno and is a lot more convenient than taking a local bus.
Reaching Amalfi was like stepping into a dream. Narrow streets snaked between colorful houses, adorned with overflowing bougainvillea- their sweet scent weaving through the air. We got lost in a lemon grove, the citrusy aroma so intense it felt like we were swimming in sunshine. Imagine biting into a sun-warmed lemon, tartness dancing on your tongue, and that’s Amalfi – fresh, vibrant, and bursting with life.
Travel Tip: Ditch the suitcase and pack light! Navigating those Amalfi steps is easier with less baggage (and you’ll have more room for gelato!). 
Day 5:
The next day, we again boarded a ferry from Salerno, but this time up till Positano. This vertical village clinging to the cliffs is basically Instagram IRL. Houses in shades of peach, ochre, and lemon tumbled down towards the turquoise water. We wandered through boutique-filled lanes, each corner unfolding a postcard-perfect vista.
Photo Op Alert: Grab your widest lens and head to the Spiaggia Grande beach. Capture the iconic view of colorful houses cascading down to the shore, the boats bobbing like lazy toys, and the sun painting the sky in fiery hues. Trust me, your phone storage will thank you!
As we sailed back to Salerno, the setting sun painted the sky in a thousand shades of orange and pink. A group of teenagers on another boat started belting out Italian pop music, their voices echoing across the water. We all spontaneously joined in, clapping and laughing, strangers united by the magic of the Amalfi Coast. Remember, sometimes the best moments are unexpected, serendipitous bursts of joy.
Days 6-8: Tuscan Tranquility
Day 6: With hearts full of coastal bliss, we took a fast train to Florence – the cradle of the Renaissance, and reached the Santa Maria Novella station. From the station, we went straight up to the Accademia Gallery, which is about a 15-minute walk. This is a very popular site, as it is home to Michelangelo’s David. During the high season, it gets extremely crowded, so we recommend reserving tickets online ahead of time to ensure entry and the cheapest price.
From the Accademia Gallery we walked up to the the Florence Cathedral aka the Duomo. It is part of the monumental complex of Santa Maria del Fiore. This “complex” includes not only the cathedral, but also a museum, the bell tower, the dome, the baptistery, and Santa Reparata. One of the best things to do in Florence is to climb the steps to the top of the dome. Not only did we see the inside of the cathedral, but we also witnessed the views of the frescoes on the inside of the dome, plus the 360 degree views over Florence.
We then took a stroll around the streets of Florence and watched the sunset at Ponte Vecchio. The city lit up at night and we enjoyed a glass of Aperol Spritz at one of those small bars across the other side of the river.
Overall, we spent our time ‘enjoying the vibe’ of the city rather than trying to ‘do everything’ and exhaust ourselves during our short stay, and that’s what I would recommend if you’re planning a one or two day trip to Florence.
Day 7:
The next day, we traded city sirens for rolling hills and medieval echoes. Our first stop was San Gimignano, a town straight out of a fairytale. Towers pierced the sky, whispering tales of knights and castles, and narrow streets were lined with shops selling artisanal crafts and locally-made honey. We even climbed the Torre Grossa, the tallest of the towers, for a 360-degree view that made us gasp.
As we sat in a sun-drenched restaurant in San Gimignano, devouring plates of fresh pasta and sipping local Chianti, a group of elderly locals started singing traditional folk songs. Their voices, weathered and warm, filled the square with a melody as old as the town itself. It was a moment of pure magic, unexpected and unforgettable.
Travel Tip: Consider taking a road trip through Tuscany to enjoy the gorgeous landscape and pit stops at multiple towns like San Gimignano. We rented our car from Sixt from Florence which gave us freedom to adventure out at our own pace.
Then came Pisa, where the Leaning Tower tilted like a playful drunkard. We posed for silly photos, pretending to hold it upright (spoiler alert: we failed miserably!). Later, we wandered through the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Duomo’s white marble gleaming under the Tuscan sun. Remember, there’s more to Pisa than just a leaning tower – explore the baptistery and cathedral for a full dose of architectural glory!
Day 8:
On our final day in Tuscany, we journeyed to Volterra, an ancient town perched on a hill. We explored the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci, marveling at terracotta warrior statues and gold jewelry that glittered like forgotten dreams. Later, we wandered through the town’s alabaster workshops, mesmerized by skilled artisans transforming rough stones into delicate sculptures. Take a workshop and try your hand at this unique local art form!
Travel Tip: Pack comfortable shoes! Tuscany is best explored on foot, wandering through quaint alleys and soaking up the atmosphere.
Our final chapter unfolded in Val d’Orcia, a landscape painted in shades of gold and green. Rolling hills dotted with cypress trees stretched as far as the eye could see, terracotta farmhouses basked in the sun, and the air smelled of rosemary and freshly baked bread. We rented bikes and pedaled through this golden Eden, stopping to take photos every five minutes (guilty as charged!). Feeling inspired? Rent a Vespa for a retro-chic way to explore the countryside!
When in Tuscany, you cannot miss indulging in a wine tasting experience, savoring different vintages while learning about the terroir and the passion of Tuscan winemakers. I highly recommend taking this small group tour, if you’re in Florence and do not wish to rent a car and drive in Tuscany.
Days 9-11: Venetian Voyage
Bidding farewell to the Tuscan sun-kissed hills, we boarded a train from Florence, hearts fluttering with anticipation, as Venice, the city of romance, awaited. Stepping off at Santa Lucia station, we were instantly swept away by the city’s ethereal beauty – gondolas gliding through shimmering canals, ancient palazzos reflected in the water, and a symphony of clinking bells filling the air.
Day 9:
Our adventure begins in Piazza San Marco, a square so grand it makes your jaw drop faster than a rogue spritz. St. Mark’s Basilica gleams like a mosaic-covered spaceship, pigeons pirouette like feathered ballerinas, and the Doge’s Palace whispers tales of doges and intrigue. We grabbed a coffee at Caffè Florian, the oldest caffè in the world, and soaked in the Venetian vibes like a true maestro.
Travel Tip: Pre-book tickets for St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace! Trust me, skipping the line feels like winning the lottery in sequins.
Later, we hopped on a Vaporetto, the Venetian water bus, like locals in the know. The wind whipped through our hair as we glided past colorful houses reflected in the canals, feeling like gondoliers in training (without the singing, maybe).
We stumbled upon a tiny bacaro (wine bar) tucked away in a hidden alley. The cicchetti (Venetian tapas) were like edible poems – fritters crispy as laughter, burrata drizzled with honey, and tiny spritzes the color of sunshine.
For dinner, Osteria Ai Pugni boasts the most melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi and tiramisu you’ll ever encounter. Just be prepared for singing waiters and boisterous laughter – it’s all part of the Venetian charm! We learned that Venice is all about those hidden gems, so keep your eyes peeled!
Day 10:
Next day, we conquered the Rialto Bridge, Venice’s bustling heart. Souvenir stalls overflowed with masks and Murano glass, pigeons begged for crumbs (tourists, take note!), and street performers serenaded us with tunes that made us want to twirl.
Packing Tip: Ditch the bulky suitcase! Venice calls for comfortable shoes, flowy dresses that billow in the breeze, and a wide-brimmed hat for those golden-hour strolls.
Now, onto the real business – gelato! Gelateria Nico is a Venetian institution, boasting scoops the size of your head and flavors so creative they’ll make your taste buds tango. Nutella & caramelized figs? Pistachio & stracciatella? The possibilities are endless (and dangerously delicious).
As we strolled along the waterfront at sunset, the sky ignited in a symphony of oranges and pinks. Gondoliers serenaded their passengers, their voices floating across the water like whispers on the breeze. We found ourselves sharing a spontaneous slow dance right there on the pier, Venice working its magic once again.
Day 11:
Our final day was all about island hopping. Burano, with its rainbow-colored houses, stole our hearts (and Instagram feeds). We wandered through lace shops, marveling at delicate creations that looked like spiderwebs spun from moonlight. Later, we ventured to San Giorgio Maggiore, home to a majestic basilica and breathtaking views of the city. Imagine basking in the sun on the island’s green carpet, the campanile chiming like a gentle reminder of time well spent.
Beyond the Itinerary:
Venice is a city to be savored slowly, getting lost in its hidden alleyways, discovering tucked-away trattorias, and soaking in the atmosphere at a local bacaro (wine bar). We recommend taking a cooking class to learn Venetian specialties, exploring the islands beyond Burano, and even venturing out to the Lido beach for a dose of sunshine and Adriatic vibes.
Day 12:
The day of departure- we packed our bags, and said goodbye to Venice- reminiscing the fantastic time throughout our trip in Italy. If you’ve reached till the end of this post- this is your sign to pack your bags and book your flights to Italy. Hope you liked our 12 day Italy holiday itinerary and found it useful- do let us know your thoughts in the comments. 🙂
Bonus Tip: Learning a few basic Italian phrases! “Grazie” goes a long way, and who knows, you might even charm a local with your linguistic prowess. Just be prepared for them to laugh at your terrible pronunciation – half the fun, right?