Italy combines art, history, food and coastline in a country that is easy to cross by train. Rome, Florence and Venice make a classic first trip, with the Amalfi Coast or the lakes as a reward.
Quick facts
- Getting there: Rome (FCO) and Milan (MXP) are the main gateways, plus Venice for northern routes.
- Best months: April to June and September to October. July and August are hot and crowded.
- Time needed: 8 to 14 days.
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
A simple first route
- Rome (3 to 4 nights): the Colosseum, Vatican and the old centre.
- Florence (2 to 3 nights): Renaissance art and Tuscany day trips.
- Venice (2 nights): canals and islands, best outside midday crowds.
Money-saving tips
- Book the Colosseum, Vatican and Uffizi tickets ahead to skip long lines.
- Regional trains are cheap. High-speed trains are cheapest when booked early.
- Eat at the bar counter for coffee and a pastry, and choose a lunch set menu.
- Stay on the mainland near Venice instead of on the islands to cut hotel costs.
- Get mobile data before you land so maps and tickets work at once.
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.