A Two-Week Classic Italy Itinerary
Must-See Destinations
Ready to craft the perfect adventure around Italy, but unsure about where to kick things off, which places to hit, the budget, or how many days to plan for? This itinerary is perfect for you because it's packed with all the essentials to create a spectacular 15-day journey. You'll be able to see the big city activities, museums, nightlife, and delicious food along the way.
If you follow this guide, you'll find historical cities, stunning artwork, picture-perfect scenery, and gourmet food. All of the specific planning information you need will be covered below, such as the route, expected budget, activities, and where to stay.
This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:
- Rome (3 days)
- Florence (3 days)
- Cinque Terre (3 days)
- Milan (2 days)
- Venice (3 days)
The Vatican
Itinerary Highlights
- Great for couples
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big City Activities
- Delicious Food
- Beautiful Locations
- Historic Sites
- Museums
- Nightlife
This region is also very popular for its world-class cities adorned with sights, attractions, vibrant nightlife, enticing restaurants, shopping, and more. On a trip through the area, you'll be able to spend time exploring these dynamic cities and everything they have to offer. Make sure you specifically visit Rome and Milan if you love urban vibes.
Indulging in delectable cuisine is a major motivator for travel, and a visit to Italy is no different. Brace yourself for an abundance of outstanding restaurants and local dishes that are simply a must-try. In particular, make sure you visit the restaurants in Florence, Cinque Terre, and Rome.
Italy pulls in visitors for its breathtaking scenery, a key highlight of the region. Don't forget your camera - trust me, the real-life experience is even more awe-inspiring. You don't want to miss Cinque Terre, Rome, and Florence for the beautiful scenery.
You'll also be able to uncover the rich and vibrant history of Italy. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic architecture, museums, and deep historical culture that permeates the area.
Along this itinerary, you'll discover a number of fantastic museums waiting to be explored, so be sure to carve out some time to see them. When it comes to Milan, Florence, and Rome, the museums offer great experiences.
Get ready for a buzzing nightlife scene in Italy with plenty of hot spots that are an absolute must-visit. Specifically, don't miss the nightlife in Rome and Milan.
Monterosso in Cinque Terre
When is the best time to visit?
Summer is a very popular time of year for a trip to Italy. While you might experience plenty of crowds, everything will be open and accessible.
Autumn in Italy offers a cooler climate, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the added perk of dwindling tourist crowds as the season unfolds. Consider this time of year for a visit if you are able to work it into your schedule.
Spring is a terrific time to visit Italy. You'll find plenty of natural beauty, great weather, and inspiring destinations.
Who is this itinerary for?
Let's make sure to talk about the romantic aspects of Italy. It's known to be such a great couples' destination. If you're traveling with your loved one, you're in for a treat. Especially visit Florence, Cinque Terre, and Rome for the enchanting atmosphere.
If you're planning a family getaway, the area is an absolute winner for a fantastic, kid-friendly trip. There's a wide variety of activities tailored for the little ones. We'll dig into more details below. In particular, make a point to visit Rome and Venice.
This area offers a myriad of travel choices perfect for those on a budget or backpacking adventure. Whether it's budget-friendly hostels, affordable hotels, free activities, pocket-friendly dining, or the lively social scene, you're in for a fantastic trip even if you're pinching pennies. Spending more time in Rome, Florence, and Milan can especially help your budget.
Rome
Transportation
Getting from one destination to another in Italy is generally easy, with the majority of these places being approximately 2 hours apart.
We selected Rome as the starting point because it offers plenty of transporation options. At the end, this itinerary loops back around to the start to make it convenient, but you could also arrive or leave from any destination along the way. To get to Rome, you can see flight prices and schedules here.
The train network in Italy offers a hassle-free and economical way to explore the region. Major cities are well-connected with swift train services, though reaching smaller towns might involve additional time and potential transfers to local buses. Opting for main routes ensures a straightforward journey, allowing travelers to relax and take in the beautiful views from their seats. It's advisable to plan ahead by checking ticket prices and schedules for a smooth travel experience.
To navigate this itinerary with ease, do it with a car. If you aren't in a position to bring your own, no problem, just rent a car. Having your own vehicle in Italy means you're in control of your schedule and can make pit stops whenever you feel like it.
Buses offer an excellent means of transportation within the area due to their affordability, speed, and convenience. For budget-conscious travelers who prefer not to be at the wheel, exploring the various price options makes considering buses an attractive alternative to other transportation modes.
Is 15 days enough time in Italy?
Yes, 15 days should give you ample time to explore the key destinations in Italy. Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures you can savor these locales at a leisurely pace, making your trip both relaxed and enjoyable. Of course, if you're eager for more local experiences, feel free to extend your stay or delve deeper into each spot. Day trip options abound, offering flexibility. Conversely, if time is tight, you can customize this suggested itinerary for a shorter yet fulfilling visit. While trimming destinations is an option, we recommend sticking to around 15 days to truly appreciate everything.
Manarola in Cinque Terre
How much does a 15-day trip to Italy cost?
Let's break down the estimated budget for this specific 15-day adventure in Italy, assuming you stick to the plan outlined below. Drawing on actual spending data from travelers and cost data from major travel companies, the daily average costs below are per person. They exclude transportation, as that can vary depending on your choices. Consider this breakdown as a financial roadmap, with mid-level hotels, regular dining, and key attractions aligning with these estimates. Anyone seeking cheaper options can opt for hostels, budget hotels, and more affordable food options. On the flip side, embracing luxury hotels, upscale dining, and private tours will make you go well beyond this budget.
| City | Daily Average | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rome | $184 | 3 | $551 |
| Florence | $167 | 3 | $500 |
| Cinque Terre | $149 | 3 | $448 |
| Milan | $180 | 2 | $360 |
| Venice | $248 | 3 | $745 |
| Total per Person | $2,605 | ||
| for 2 People | $5,210 | ||
The estimated cost for this 15-day adventure in Italy is approximately $2,605 per person, according to our calculations. It's worth noting that this does not cover transportation between destinations. That part is entirely dependent on your chosen mode of travel.
Accommodation Costs
Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through Italy based on calculated averages.
Hotel Prices
The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Sourced from Kayak's hotel data, it's crucial to recognize that these figures exclude taxes and fees. Think of these averages as representative of mid-range hotel experiences, yet, keep in mind, that it's possible to spend more or less, particularly if you opt for budget-friendly lodgings or indulge in high-end luxury hotels. These prices will usually be higher during peak travel season, too.
| City | Average Hotel Room Price | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rome | $99 | 3 | $297 |
| Florence | $118 | 3 | $354 |
| Cinque Terre | $171 | 3 | $513 |
| Milan | $104 | 2 | $208 |
| Venice | $135 | 3 | $405 |
| Total Expected Hotel Cost | $1,777 | ||
Hostel Prices
If you're looking to save some money on your trip, hostels are a great option for younger travelers or solo travelers. The prices below represent the average cost for a dorm bed in a hostel for each place. While you give up privacy in a hostel dorm, the atmosphere is usually very social and offers a great opportunity to make new friends along the way. Many hostels also offer private rooms for higher prices than dorms. Many also offer kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are calculated from available hostel data provided by HostelWorld.
| City | Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person) | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rome | $32 | 3 days | $96 |
| Florence | $32 | 3 days | $95 |
| Cinque Terre | $28 | 3 days | $84 |
| Milan | $27 | 2 days | $55 |
| Venice | $33 | 3 days | $100 |
| Total Hostel Cost | $430 | ||
Italy Itinerary
1. Rome
3 Days
Rome is the capital city of Italy, and for many visitors it serves as the entry and departure point of their trip. Rome is filled with ancient ruins hidden next to modern development. It's a history enthusiasts dream. The city is also filled with cafes and Italian restaurants where you can sip wine and dine on Italian pasta dishes.
Rome brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for families and backpackers because of everything available.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rome are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.
For foodies, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.
The music scene here is popular and famous around the world. Make sure to take some time to see a show.
Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.
What to See in Rome
How to Spend 3 Days in Rome
Day 1:
When visiting Rome, you absolutely can't miss the Colosseum as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to fully experience it.
The culinary scene in Rome is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.
Rome is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.
Day 2:
Rome is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.
The public transit in Rome is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.
Day 3:
Since Rome is such a large city, you can spend at least a day exploring the many neighborhoods, attractions, and activities found around town. Break up visiting popular landmarks with the more authentic neighborhoods for shopping and dining. This is a big city with a busy atmosphere and historic vibe. Some of the most popular areas to visit include St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and the neighborhood of Campo Marzio which is full of cafes and shops.
Rome is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. With its many beautiful landmarks and impressive architecture, this city has a lot of attractive places to visit. Don't miss Villa Borghese Park, Trastevere, Palazzo Madama, the Appian Way, and Piazza Navona.
More Activities
Rome offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Rome, see The Best Cooking Classes in Rome, The Best Cheap Roman Forum Tours in Rome, The Best Cheap Walking Tours in Rome, and Cheap and Easy Cruise Port Transfers in Rome.
Rome Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Rome average around $184 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Rome here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $9 | $23 | $66 |
| Food2 | $20 | $51 | $129 |
| Entertainment1 | $14 | $39 | $119 |
| Alcohol2 | $8 | $20 | $45 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Rome, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $99, calculated from the data of 4989 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Rome here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Rome offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $32. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Rome.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Rome to Florence.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Rome to Florence, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
Buses from Rome to Florence are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
2. Florence
3 Days
Florence is the capital of Italy's famous Tuscany region. It's a city filled with some of the world's most famous and beautiful art and architecture. There are many iconic sights including the famous Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the The Galleria dell'Accademia where you'll find Michelangelo's David. The city is also filled with cafes and shops where you can buy fine Italian items or souvenir knockoffs.
Florence brings plenty of visitors because it has museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples, families, and backpackers because of everything available.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.
For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
Florence has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
What to See in Florence
How to Spend 3 Days in Florence
Day 1:
When visiting Florence, you absolutely can't miss the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore) as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to fully experience it.
The culinary scene in Florence is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.
Florence is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. Most people explore the city on foot.
Day 2:
Florence is home to renowned museums and iconic landmarks, so dive into the city's famous attractions. The city's historical sites rank among the most awe-inspiring globally. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.
Florence is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.
The public transit in Florence is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. There is a comprehensive bus system.
Day 3:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.
More Activities
Florence offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Florence, see Cheap Uffizi Skip-the-Line Tickets and Tours in Florence, The Best Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours in Florence, The Best Walking Tours in Florence, and The Best Cooking Tours in Florence.
Florence Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Florence average around $167 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Florence here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $10 | $24 | $47 |
| Food2 | $16 | $39 | $95 |
| Entertainment1 | $12 | $32 | $92 |
| Alcohol2 | $8 | $20 | $43 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Florence, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $118, calculated from the data of 1623 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Florence here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Florence offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $32. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Florence.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Florence to Cinque Terre.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Florence to Cinque Terre, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
Buses from Florence to Cinque Terre are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
3. Cinque Terre
3 Days
Cinque Terre is both a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area is famous for its five villages that are connected by hiking trails. Vehicle traffic is heavily restricted in the area, so the towns feel frozen in time. They're filled with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and are perched precariously on the hillside looking out on the striking blue ocean waters. The countryside is filled with vineyards and the atmosphere of the area offers a truly unique experience.
Cinque Terre brings plenty of visitors because it has small town charm, beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, hiking, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples and families because of everything available.
For foodies, Cinque Terre is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
Cinque Terre has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
Hiking in the area is world-class, and people come from far and wide to explore the area's many trails and views. Set aside some time while you're here to hike.
What to See in Cinque Terre
How to Spend 3 Days in Cinque Terre
Day 1:
Known for it's hiking, Cinque Terre sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.
The culinary scene in Cinque Terre is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this coastal region's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. Like much of Italy, the area focuses on local flavors that include lots of seafood, as well as local fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The towns are known for their focaccia, which actually originated in nearby Genoa. Anchovies are a favorite here as well, and don't be turned off by your experience with anchovies outside of Italy. They don't compare. Also make sure you sample the pesto, mussels, and any fresh caught seafood.
Cinque Terre is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the coastal region, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. Vehicle traffic in the towns are heavily restricted so it's very enjoyable to explore on foot. The terrain is hilly and uneven, but that's part of the charm. There are also hiking trails that connect each of the five towns.
Day 2:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.
Cinque Terre is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The region is famous for its striking beauty and dramatic hills that sit beautifully against the rich blue waters.
The public transit in Cinque Terre is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the coastal region quite easily and affordably. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.
Day 3:
The small-town atmosphere of Cinque Terre is one of the main reasons that visitors come here. Spend at least part of your day exploring the town to see the many sights and attractions. The charming villages are filled with colorful buildings, meandering cobblestone streets, and almost no cars.
More Activities
Cinque Terre offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Cinque Terre, see The Best Boat Tours in Cinque Terre, The Best Wine Tours and Tastings in Cinque Terre, The Best Cooking Classes in Cinque Terre, and The Best Trekking & Hiking Tours in Cinque Terre.
Cinque Terre Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Cinque Terre average around $149 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Cinque Terre here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $7 | $17 | $37 |
| Food2 | $18 | $44 | $99 |
| Entertainment1 | $6 | $14 | $22 |
| Alcohol2 | $3 | $7 | $19 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Cinque Terre, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $171, calculated from the data of 299 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Cinque Terre here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Cinque Terre offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $28. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Cinque Terre.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Cinque Terre to Milan.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Cinque Terre to Milan, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
Buses from Cinque Terre to Milan are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
4. Milan
2 Days
Milan is the fashion and design capital of Italy. It has many glamourous shops as well as beautiful art and architecture. The city is also a financial hub for the country. While its often skipped over by tourists for other more popular Italian cities, those who visit will be rewarded with many great experiences.
Milan brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for families because of everything available.
For foodies, Milan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.
The music scene here is popular and famous around the world. Make sure to take some time to see a show.
Milan has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.
What to See in Milan
How to Spend 2 Days in Milan
Day 1:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.
The delicious food of Milan is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.
Milan is a very walkable city. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. In particular, the city center is walkable.
Day 2:
Given that Milan is a large and popular city, give yourself a full day to uncover the diverse neighborhoods, captivating attractions, and engaging activities scattered throughout the area. Be sure to include visits to some of the city's premier landmarks and quintessential neighborhoods, too. The city is known as the financial, fashion, and (arguably) cultural capital of Italy.
This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.
Public transit in Milan is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.
More Activities
Milan offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Milan, see The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Milan, The Best Cheap Walking Tours in Milan, The Best Milan Duomo Tours, and The Best Wine Tours in Milan.
Milan Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Milan average around $180 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Milan here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $13 | $38 | $121 |
| Food2 | $18 | $42 | $87 |
| Entertainment1 | $13 | $33 | $82 |
| Alcohol2 | $11 | $26 | $62 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Milan, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $104, calculated from the data of 1159 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Milan here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Milan offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $27. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Milan.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Milan to Venice.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Milan to Venice, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
Buses from Milan to Venice are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
5. Venice
3 Days
Venice is one of the most popular attractions in Italy, and at times it does feel more like an attraction than a city. But that doesn't mean that it's not truly beautiful and romantic - a not -to-be-missed stop on any Italian itinerary. Part of the experience in Venice is simply getting lost. Tucked away in the hidden corners you'll find what really makes this city one-of-a-kind.
Venice brings plenty of visitors because it has museums and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples and families because of everything available.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Venice are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.
Venice has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.
What to See in Venice
How to Spend 3 Days in Venice
Day 1:
When visiting Venice, you absolutely can't miss St. Mark's Basilica as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to fully experience it.
Venice is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The city's beautiful canals, architecture, and gondolas make it among the most stunning and unique places to visit in the world.
Venice is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.
Day 2:
Venice is known for it's world-class museums and famous landmarks, so make sure you spend at least a day exploring at one or more of the most appealing. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.
The public transit in Venice is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.
Day 3:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.
More Activities
Venice offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Venice, see The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Venice, The Best Cheap Gondola Rides and Tours in Venice, The Best Doge's Palace Tours in Venice, and The Best Tours to Murano from Venice.
Venice Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Venice average around $248 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Venice here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $13 | $29 | $59 |
| Food2 | $27 | $70 | $190 |
| Entertainment1 | $40 | $109 | $318 |
| Alcohol2 | $11 | $26 | $58 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Venice, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $135, calculated from the data of 1536 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Venice here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Venice offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $33. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Venice.
Final Transportation
As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Rome.
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Venice to Rome.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Venice to Rome, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
Buses from Venice to Rome are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
Next Steps
So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your 15-day trip in Italy, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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