The Ultimate 10-Day Italy Travel Itinerary 2024 | Dolomiti, Florence, Rome, Naples

If you’re looking for a journey that combines stunning outdoor landscapes, priceless art and historical landmarks, diverse culinary experiences, and the expansive beauty of a long coastline, then this 10-day Italy travel itinerary is perfect for you. Over the course of this trip, you'll explore four unique cities, each offering its own distinct charm and beauty.
I've compiled some valuable tips from my own Italian journey, which you'll find after the detailed itinerary. I hope these insights will help guide your travel planning and make your experience even more memorable.

10-Day Italy Travel Itinerary

Day 1 - 3 Dolomiti

The first stop on my journey is the Dolomiti, a breathtaking mountain range in northeastern Italy, part of the Southern Limestone Alps. Renowned for its dramatic peaks and unique geological formations, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an awe-inspiring landscape where snow-capped summits meet rolling green meadows, creating a scene straight out of a dream.
As the gateway to the Dolomites, Bolzano (or Bozen in German) is the capital of South Tyrol in northern Italy. Nestled between towering mountains, this charming town feels like a hidden gem, seamlessly blending Italian elegance with Alpine ruggedness.

How to Get to the Dolomites

• By Plane: The closest airports are in Venice, Verona. After landing, transfer by train to Bolzano.
• By Train: Main stations include Bolzano and Trento, from where buses connect to various Dolomite towns.
• By Car: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the Dolomites at your own pace, especially for access to more remote locations.

Transportation in the Dolomites
Public transportation in the Dolomites is well-developed, with buses linking many towns. Several key attractions are accessible via cable cars, offering spectacular views. For greater flexibility and the chance to explore remote spots, renting a car is advisable.

Accommodation in the Dolomites:
For easy access to Seceda and Seiser Alm, consider staying in Ortisei. It's conveniently close to the cable car stations, making it a practical choice. If you’re planning a longer stay, explore other scenic towns in the region. Each offers unique charm and stunning views, perfect for a more immersive experience.

Day 1 Bolzano - Ortisei - Funes Valley
Upon arriving in Bolzano, take a short drive to the charming town of Ortisei and settle in. In the afternoon, head to the Funes Valley. After getting off, take a scenic hike to the Church of St. John, renowned as one of the most isolated churches in the world, set against a stunning backdrop. Before sunset, make sure to visit the photo spot marked on the map—you’ll be amazed by the views. Also, be sure to check the schedule for the last return bus.

Day 2 Seceda - Seiser Alm
On the second morning, walk from Ortisei to the cable car station for Seiser Alm. The Seiser Alm plateau offers numerous hiking trails, and if time permits, you could easily spend the entire day hiking or cycling, or simply relaxing and soaking in the serene atmosphere. However, with limited time, we’ll hike halfway before heading back to the cable car station.
In the afternoon, make your way to Seceda. Note that the cable car station for Seceda is different from Seiser Alm. The ride to the top involves two segments—make sure to take the second segment to reach the Seceda summit. The afternoon light on Seceda offers spectacular photo opportunities. Follow the well-marked trail and ascend with the flow of hikers to the top.
If you’re still up for it on the way down, consider skipping the cable car and taking the scenic hiking route to the Cristina cable car station. The views along this path are unforgettable and well worth the effort. Finally, take the cable car down and catch a bus back to your accommodation.

Day 3 Bolzano - Florence
On the third morning, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Ortisei one last time. Then make your way to the Bolzano train station to catch the high-speed train to Florence. The scenic journey takes about six hours, so you’ll likely arrive in Florence by early evening.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, if the sun is still shining, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. Here, you can unwind and savor a beautifully relaxed sunset, immersing yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Florence as day transitions to night.

Day 4-5 Florence

Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region in Italy, is renowned as the "Cradle of the Renaissance." This city is famous for its rich art, architecture, and history, having been a significant cultural and political center during the Renaissance.

Transportation & Accommodation
Florence’s attractions are conveniently clustered, making it easy to explore most of the city on foot. For accommodation, consider staying in one of the charming old buildings in the city center. While the facilities may show a bit of age, the experience of staying in such a historic setting more than makes up for it. Plus, you'll save a lot of time by not needing to rely on transportation to reach the main sights.

Day4 Galleria dell'Accademia - Uffizi Gallery
Start your day with a visit to Piazza San Marco, the heart of Florence's historic district. From there, make your way to the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's iconic David. Next, head to the Uffizi Gallery, where you'll find an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces.
After immersing yourself in art, stroll over to the Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval bridge lined with charming shops. End your day with a visit to the Pitti Palace, a grandiose Renaissance residence with stunning gardens and an impressive art collection.

Day5 Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Begin your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral), an architectural marvel with its stunning dome and intricate façade. After exploring the cathedral, wander over to Piazza della Repubblica, a lively square brimming with cafes and shops, perfect for a leisurely coffee or a bit of people-watching.
After finishing your sightseeing, catch the high-speed train to Rome for the next leg of your journey.

Day 6-7 Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is one of the world’s most famous cities for history and culture, often referred to as the “Eternal City” due to its rich historical heritage and long-standing cultural significance. As the birthplace of the Roman Empire, Rome is home to countless ancient ruins and architectural treasures.

Day 6 Colosseum-Pantheon-Trevi Fountain-Piazza di Spagna
Start your Roman adventure with a visit to the iconic Colosseum, where you can step back in time and imagine the grandeur of ancient gladiatorial battles. Next, head to the majestic Pantheon, an architectural masterpiece and one of the best-preserved monuments of Ancient Rome.
Continue your journey to the famous Trevi Fountain, be sure to toss a coin and make a wish! Finally, end your day at the elegant Piazza di Spagna, where you can relax on the Spanish Steps and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Eternal City.

Day 7 Vatican City Day Tour
We also spent a full day visiting the Vatican, the world's smallest country, toured the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica, with so many artistic treasures that it was overwhelming. The Basilica is definitely the most lavish and divine church I've ever seen.

Day 8-9 Naples-positano-Amalfi

Day 8 Day Trip to Naples
Catch a train from Rome to Naples, and get ready to experience the lively energy of this historic city. Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant city center, where narrow streets are filled with character and charm. Explore the bustling markets, soaking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of authentic Neapolitan life.
No visit to Naples is complete without indulging in its famous pizza. Make sure to stop by one of the city’s legendary pizzerias, with over a century of history, for a true taste of Naples' finest pizza—a culinary experience you won’t forget.

Day 9 Road Trip to Positano and Amalfi
On Day 9, rent a car and embark on a scenic drive along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Wind your way along the cliffside roads, with stunning views of the turquoise sea stretching out before you. Your first stop is the postcard-perfect town of Positano, with its colorful houses cascading down to the beach. Take your time exploring the narrow streets, boutique shops, and charming cafes.
After enjoying Positano’s beauty, continue your journey towards Amalfi, another gem of the coast. The drive itself is an unforgettable experience, offering some of the most iconic coastal views in Italy. Upon arriving in Amalfi, soak in the town’s historic charm, visit the famous Amalfi Cathedral, or simply relax by the water as you take in the serene atmosphere of this enchanting seaside destination.

Day 10 End of the Journey

Drive back from Amalfi to Naples, taking in the stunning coastal views one last time. From Naples, catch a high-speed train to Rome. Once in Rome, head to the airport to board your flight and begin your journey home.

Travel Tips

Travel Itinerary Suggestions

A 10-day itinerary for four cities in Italy can feel quite rushed. To enjoy a more leisurely pace, consider extending your trip to 14 days. This allows you to fully explore each destination without feeling hurried.
If you’re limited to 10 days, it’s advisable to focus on just three cities. Spending around three days in each city will provide a more relaxed experience. If the Dolomites are not a priority, you might choose to replace them with Milan or Venice.

Ticket Booking and Free Admission Days

It’s highly recommended to book tickets for Florence and Rome’s attractions online in advance. Purchasing tickets on-site can often mean long queues and the risk of not securing tickets for the day. To avoid disruptions to your itinerary, aim to book your tickets at least one month ahead of your visit.
Rome

• Colosseum: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
• National Roman Museum: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
• Borghese Gallery: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month, but advance booking is required.

Florence

• Uffizi Gallery: Free entry on the first Tuesday of each month, but advance booking is required.
• Accademia Gallery: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: Free entry to the cathedral itself; however, tickets are required to access the dome and the Baptistery.

Venice

• Doge's Palace: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month, typically requires advance booking.
• Musei Civici di Venezia: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

Milan

• Milan Cathedral: Free entry to the cathedral; tickets are required to access the rooftop and the museum.
• Sforza Castle: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

Transportation Tickets & Tips

Ticket Booking:

1. Public Transport: In cities, tickets for metro, buses, and trams can be purchased at stations, convenience stores, or via mobile apps. In major cities like Rome and Florence, consider buying a city pass or multi-day ticket for convenience and savings.
2. Intercity Trains: Purchase tickets through Italy’s national railway (Trenitalia) or other train services like Italo via their websites or apps. Booking in advance often offers discounts.
3. Train Ticket Validation: Ensure you validate your tickets at the station before boarding, especially for long-distance trains. Both electronic and paper tickets need to be checked before departure.

Tips:

• Ticket Validation: Always validate your ticket before boarding public transport to avoid fines.
• Peak Hours: Try to avoid peak hours (morning and evening rush) to sidestep crowded conditions, particularly in large cities.

Car Rental & Considerations

Renting a Car:

1. Rental Companies: Book through major rental platforms such as Hertz, Avis, or Europcar.
2. Driving License Requirements: Ensure you have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national driver’s license.
3. Rental Insurance: Opt for comprehensive rental insurance to cover any accidents or damages.

Tips:

• Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with local driving regulations, including speed limits and parking rules, as they may differ from those in your home country.
• City Driving: In cities like Rome, Florence, and Naples, the streets can be narrow and parking can be scarce and expensive. For city travel, public transportation is often more practical.

Cover Photo Credit by Heidi Kaden on Unsplash