Are you dreamery of a 7-day trip to Italy on a budget? Look no further! With careful planning, you can discover the land of love, art, and pleasing food without hitting the jackpot. In this article, we’ll lead you through a 7-day Italy itinerary that will take you to the most famous cities, monuments, and hidden nuggets of Italy, all on a friendly budget. Whether you have one week in Italy or just seven days to spare, our itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time and money. From Rome’s ancient ruins to Florence’s artistic treasures, we’ll show you how to experience the best of Italy without sacrificing your budget. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable 7-day adventure in Italy!
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Transport options from the Airport:
Here are some common transport options from Rome, Italy’s capital, to different cities in Italy:
By Train:
Trenitalia (National Railway): Joins Rome to most major cities in Italy, including Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, and Bologna.
Italo: A high-speed train service that connects Rome to Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, and Bologna.
Leonardo Express: A direct train from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station in Rome.
By Bus:
FlixBus: A budget-friendly bus service that connects Rome to many cities in Italy, including Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, and Bologna.
MarinoBus: A bus service that connects Rome to Florence, Venice, and other cities in central and northern Italy.
Tiemme SpA: A bus service that connects Rome to Siena, Florence, and other cities in Tuscany.
By Flight:
Alitalia: Italy’s national airline, which engages flights from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport to many cities in Italy, including Milan, Venice, Naples, and Bologna.
Ryanair: A low-cost airline that operates flights from Rome’s Ciampino Airport to many cities in Italy, including Milan, Venice, Naples, and Bologna.
By Car:
Rent a car: Many car rental companies, such as Europcar, Hertz, and Avis, have offices at Rome’s airports and in the city center.
Drive: Rome is connected to other cities in Italy by a network of highways, including the A1 (Rome-Milan), A14 (Rome-Bologna), and A16 (Rome-Naples).
Here are some approximate travel times and frequencies from Rome to other major cities in Italy:
Florence: 1.5 hours by train (frequent departures), 3-4 hours by bus (frequent departures), 1 hour by flight (multiple daily flights)
Venice: 3.5 hours by train (frequent departures), 5-6 hours by bus (frequent departures), 1.5 hours by flight (multiple daily flights)
Milan: 3 hours by train (frequent departures), 5-6 hours by bus (frequent departures), 1 hour by flight (multiple daily flights)
Naples: 2.5 hours by train (frequent departures), 4-5 hours by bus (frequent departures), 1 hour by flight (multiple daily flights)
Bologna: 2 hours by train (frequent departures), 3-4 hours by bus (frequent departures), 1 hour by flight (multiple daily flights)
Please note that travel times and frequencies may vary depending on the time of day, season, and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with the transport provider for the latest information.
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
Morning:
A visitor arriving in Rome might start their morning by waking up early and enjoying a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a cornetto at a local café. They then head out to explore iconic historic sites such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum, taking advantage of the quieter morning hours. A leisurely stroll through Rome’s charming streets leads them to the Trevi Fountain for a coin toss.
Budget:
Admission to the Colosseum costs €12 (approximately $14 USD), an absolute steal for the unforgettable experience of walking in the footsteps of gladiators and emperors. Be sure to budget extra for a guided tour, which can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of this ancient wonder.
Travel tip:
Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and make the most of your morning. Consider purchasing a Roma Pass, which grants you free entry to several attractions, including the Colosseum, and discounts on public transportation. And don’t be afraid to ask your hotel or accommodation provider for recommendations on the best local cafes and hidden gems to explore.
Afternoon:
Explore the Roman Forum, an ancient marketplace filled with historical ruins and artifacts. Next, they might visit the Pantheon and enjoy the serene atmosphere of its ancient architecture. The afternoon continues with a visit to the bustling Campo de’ Fiori market or a local museum, and they conclude with a relaxing walk in the Villa Borghese gardens before enjoying a delicious lunch at a traditional trattoria.
Budget:
Admission to the Roman Forum costs €12 (approximately $14 USD), a small price to pay for the opportunity to wander through ancient ruins and artifacts. Be sure to budget extra for a guided tour or audio guide, which can help bring the history to life. You may also want to budget for lunch at a local trattoria, where you can try some delicious Italian cuisine for around €15-20 (approximately $17-23 USD) per person.
Travel tip:
Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, as the Roman Forum is an outdoor site that can get hot and crowded. Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid the peak tourist crowds. And be sure to take your time and soak up the atmosphere – the Roman Forum is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Night:
Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner at a trattoria in the Trastevere neighborhood. In the evening, a visitor in Rome might begin with a leisurely aperitivo at a local bar, sipping on a spritz or a glass of Italian wine while sampling small bites. They then head to a cozy trattoria or osteria for a traditional Italian dinner, savoring dishes like pasta alla carbonara or saltimbocca. After dinner, a stroll through the illuminated streets leads them to famous landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, which are beautifully lit at night. They might end the night with a gelato from a local gelateria, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and ambiance of Rome’s piazzas. Before heading back to their accommodation, they could stop by a rooftop bar or terrace for a final drink, taking in the breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.
Budget:
Dinner prices vary, but expect to pay around €20-€30 (approximately $23-35 USD) per person for a delicious and authentic Italian meal. Be sure to budget extra for wine and dessert – you won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to try some of Italy’s famous culinary delights! You may also want to budget for a gelato or coffee afterwards, which can cost around €5-10 (approximately $6-12 USD) per person.
Travel tip:
Make a reservation in advance, as Trastevere is a popular area for dining and tables can fill up quickly. Consider asking your hotel or accommodation provider for recommendations on the best local restaurants and hidden gems to explore. And be sure to take your time and enjoy the atmosphere – dinner in Italy is a leisurely affair, and you’ll want to savor every bite and every moment.
Day 2: Milan
Morning:
Start your day by exploring Milan’s iconic cathedral, the Duomo di Milano. Climb to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city. Walk over to the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, and admire its stunning architecture.
Budget:
€15 for the combined ticket (Cathedral + Rooftop by stairs) is a steal for the unforgettable experience of exploring Milan’s iconic cathedral and taking in the breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop. And don’t worry about breaking the bank for breakfast – you can grab a coffee or snack for free or a few euros at a local café.
Travel tip: Arrive
early to avoid crowds and enjoy the morning light for the best photos. Everything is within walking distance in the city center, making it easy to navigate on foot and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the season, as you’ll want to make the most of your time exploring Milan.
Afternoon:
Explore the historic Sforza Castle, which houses several museums and art collections. Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at a local trattoria. Try a traditional Italian dish like risotto alla Milanese or a classic pizza. Head to the Brera District, known for its bohemian atmosphere, art galleries, and the Pinacoteca di Brera art museum.
Budget:
€5 for museum entry is a bargain for the opportunity to explore the historic Sforza Castle and its impressive art collections. And don’t forget to budget for lunch at a local trattoria, where you can try a traditional Italian dish like risotto alla Milanese or a classic pizza for around €15-20 per person.
Travel tip:
The castle grounds are free to enter and wander around if you prefer to save on museum fees. Look for places with set menus or lunch specials for the best value, and be sure to try some of the local specialties like risotto or osso buco. Enjoy strolling through the picturesque streets and exploring the small shops and galleries – you never know what hidden gems you might discover.
Night:
Head to the Navigli district for aperitivo, a traditional Italian pre-dinner drink accompanied by free snacks or a buffet. Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner in the Navigli area or return to the city center for more dining options.
Budget:
€10-€15 for a drink and access to the aperitivo buffet is a great way to experience Milan’s vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to budget for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try some of Milan’s famous dishes like risotto alla Milanese or ossobuco for around €20-30 per person.
Travel tip:
Navigli is known for its lively atmosphere and picturesque canals, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the local culture. Many restaurants offer reasonably priced menus with local specialties, so be sure to look for spots with good reviews and a cozy atmosphere. And don’t forget to try some of the local wines and cocktails – you’re in Italy, after all!
Day 3: Florence
Morning Routine
Start your day in Florence with an early visit to the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore). Climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of the city. The combined ticket for the cathedral, dome, and Baptistery costs €20. After your visit, walk to the nearby Mercato Centrale for a budget-friendly breakfast; a coffee and a pastry will cost around €5. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market and maybe pick up some fresh fruits for a snack later.
Budget
€20 for the combined ticket for the cathedral, dome, and Baptistery is a small price to pay for the unforgettable experience of exploring Florence’s iconic Duomo. And don’t worry about breaking the bank for breakfast – you can grab a coffee and pastry for around €5 at the nearby Mercato Centrale.
Travel Tip
All locations are within walking distance in Florence, making it easy and cost-effective to navigate on foot and take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the season, as you’ll want to make the most of your time exploring Florence. And don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the city from the top of the dome – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Afternoon Routine
Head to the Uffizi Gallery to explore its extensive collection of Renaissance art. The entrance fee is €20. After soaking in the art, have a quick and budget-friendly lunch from a local vendor; a panini or pizza slice costs around €7. Spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful Boboli Gardens, where entry is €10. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning landscapes and sculptures.
Budget
€20 for entrance to the Uffizi Gallery is a bargain for the opportunity to explore one of the world’s most famous art museums. And don’t forget to budget for lunch at a local vendor, where you can grab a panini or pizza slice for around €7.
Travel Tip
Florence is very walkable, so you can easily reach these destinations on foot and take in the sights and sounds of the city. If you prefer, you can use the city’s efficient bus system for €1.50 per ride. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the art and architecture of the Uffizi Gallery, and don’t forget to grab a snack or lunch at a local vendor to keep your energy up.
Night
In the evening, make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo for a stunning sunset view over Florence. This spot is free and offers incredible photo opportunities. For dinner, head to the Oltrarno district and dine at a local trattoria. Budget around €20 for a hearty meal, enjoying traditional Tuscan dishes. If needed, use the city’s bus system to return to your accommodation, with each ride costing €1.50.
Budget
Free admission to Piazzale Michelangelo for a stunning sunset view over Florence is a great way to end the day without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to budget for dinner at a local trattoria, where you can try some traditional Tuscan dishes for around €20 per person.
Travel Tip
Use Florence’s bus system for €1.50 per ride if necessary, though many places can be reached on foot. Be sure to take in the stunning views of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo, and don’t forget to try some of the local wines and dishes at dinner. Look for spots with good reviews and a cozy atmosphere, and be sure to make a reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.
Day 4: NAPLES
Morning Routine
Start your day in Naples with a visit to the historic city center. Begin at Piazza del Plebiscito, a grand square surrounded by impressive buildings such as the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Enjoy a traditional Neapolitan breakfast at a nearby café, consisting of a sfogliatella pastry and espresso, which costs around €5. Then, take a short walk to the Naples National Archaeological Museum to explore its extensive collection of ancient Roman artifacts and Pompeii relics. The entrance fee is €15.
Budget
Opt for local cafés instead of touristy ones for a more authentic and cheap breakfast experience. Purchase tickets for the Naples National Archaeological Museum online in advance to avoid potential price hikes or long queues.
Travel Tips
Walking is the best way to explore the historic center of Naples as attractions are close to each other. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking a lot on cobblestone streets. Consider starting your museum visit early to avoid the busiest times.
Afternoon Routine
After the museum, head to Spaccanapoli, a famous narrow street that cuts through the heart of Naples. Here, you can admire the bustling atmosphere and visit churches such as Santa Chiara and Gesù Nuovo. For lunch, grab a pizza margherita from a local pizzeria, which should cost around €7. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant markets and shops along Spaccanapoli, and visit the Napoli Sotterranea for a fascinating underground tour of the city’s ancient aqueducts and ruins, which costs €10.
Budget
Stick to local pizzerias for lunch, as they often offer the best prices and quality. While exploring Spaccanapoli, look out for street vendors and small shops where you can find unique souvenirs at reasonable prices. Book the Napoli Sotterranea tour in advance to potentially secure discounts.
Travel Tips
Walking is convenient for exploring Spaccanapoli and its nearby attractions. Keep an eye on your belongings, as busy markets can be hotspots for pickpockets. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while walking around the city.
Night
In the evening, make your way to the Lungomare, the scenic waterfront promenade of Naples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seafront, taking in views of Mount Vesuvius and Castel dell’Ovo. This is a great spot to relax and watch the sunset. For dinner, visit a local trattoria or osteria along the Lungomare, where you can enjoy a seafood meal for around €20. If needed, use Naples’ public transportation system, with a single metro or bus ticket costing €1.10, to return to your accommodation.
Budget
Choose a trattoria or osteria with a set menu to get the best value for your dinner. Look for places where locals dine to ensure good prices and authentic meals. If you plan to use public transportation more than once, consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel.
Travel Tips
Walking is ideal for enjoying the Lungomare and its surroundings, offering the best views and ambiance. Use public transport if you need to return to your accommodation, especially if it’s late or if you’re tired from walking. Check the metro and bus schedules in advance to avoid long waits, as public transport frequency may reduce in the evening.
Day 5: Palermo
Morning Routine
Begin your day in Palermo with a visit to the Palermo Cathedral, a stunning example of Norman architecture. Entry to the cathedral is free, but for an additional €5, you can access the rooftop for panoramic views of the city. After exploring the cathedral, walk to the nearby Quattro Canti, a Baroque square at the intersection of Palermo’s two main streets. Enjoy a traditional Sicilian breakfast of coffee and a cannoli at a nearby café for around €5.
Budget
€5 for rooftop access at Palermo Cathedral is a small price to pay for the stunning views of the city. And don’t forget to budget for a traditional Sicilian breakfast of coffee and a cannoli at a nearby café for around €5. You’ll want to fuel up for a day of exploring this vibrant city!
Travel Tip
Walking is the best way to explore the historic center of Palermo, as attractions are close to each other. Take your time and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations from the friendly locals.
Afternoon Routine
Head to the bustling Ballarò Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample local street food. Budget around €7 for a light lunch of arancini (rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters). After lunch, visit the Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s largest opera houses. A guided tour of the theater costs €8. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the streets of the Kalsa district, known for its historic buildings and lively street art.
Budget:
€7 for a light lunch of arancini and panelle at Ballarò Market is a great way to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to budget for a guided tour of Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s largest opera houses, for €8. You won’t want to miss the stunning architecture and rich history of this iconic landmark.
Travel tip:
Walking is convenient for exploring the Ballarò Market, Teatro Massimo, and the Kalsa district. Take your time and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of these areas, and be sure to try some of the local street food and drinks along the way.
Night:
In the evening, make your way to the picturesque Piazza Marina, where you can relax in the Giardino Garibaldi, a charming public garden. For dinner, visit a local trattoria or osteria in the area, where you can enjoy a hearty Sicilian meal for around €15-€20. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Via Roma, a major street filled with shops and cafes, before returning to your accommodation. If needed, use Palermo’s public transportation system, with a single bus ticket costing €1.40, to get back to your lodging.
Budget:
€15-€20 for a hearty Sicilian meal at a local trattoria or osteria is a great way to end the day. And don’t forget to budget for a gelato from one of Palermo’s renowned gelaterias for around €3. You’ll want to try some of the local flavors and ingredients that make Sicilian gelato so famous.
Travel tip:
Walking is ideal for enjoying Piazza Marina and Via Roma in the evening. Take a leisurely stroll and soak up the atmosphere of these beautiful areas, and be sure to stop at a local café or bar for a coffee or drink along the way. If needed, use Palermo’s public transportation system to return to your accommodation.
Day 6: Bologna
Morning Routine
Start your day in Bologna by visiting the iconic Two Towers (Due Torri), Asinelli and Garisenda. Climb the Asinelli Tower for stunning views of the city. The entrance fee is €5. Afterward, head to Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio, which is free to enter. Enjoy a traditional Bolognese breakfast of cappuccino and a brioche at a local café for around €5.
Budget:
€5 for entrance to the Asinelli Tower is a small price to pay for the stunning views of the city. And don’t forget to budget for a traditional Bolognese breakfast of cappuccino and a brioche at a local café for around €5. You’ll want to fuel up for a day of exploring this charming city!
Travel tip:
Walking is the best way to explore Bologna’s compact and charming city center, making travel between these attractions easy and cost-effective. Take your time and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations from the friendly locals.
Afternoon Routine
Explore the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s ancient market area, where you can browse local produce, meats, cheeses, and more. For lunch, enjoy a delicious plate of fresh pasta, such as tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), at a local trattoria for about €10. After lunch, visit the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world, and the Archiginnasio, its historical library. Entrance to the Archiginnasio is €3.
Budget:
€10 for a delicious plate of fresh pasta at a local trattoria is a great way to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to budget for entrance to the Archiginnasio, the historical library of the University of Bologna, for €3. You won’t want to miss the stunning architecture and rich history of this iconic landmark.
Travel tip:
Continue to explore on foot, as all these attractions are within walking distance in Bologna’s city center. Take your time and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of these areas, and be sure to try some of the local street food and drinks along the way.
Night:
In the evening, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Bologna and make your way to the Giardini Margherita, the city’s largest park, for a relaxing walk and some fresh air. This is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the local atmosphere for free. For dinner, savor traditional dishes like tortellini in brodo or mortadella at a local restaurant, budgeting around €15-€20. After dinner, enjoy a gelato from one of Bologna’s renowned gelaterias, costing around €3. If necessary, use the city’s public transport, with a single bus ticket costing €1.50, to return to your accommodation.
Budget:
€15-€20 for a traditional Bolognese meal at a local restaurant is a great way to end the day. And don’t forget to budget for a gelato from one of Bologna’s renowned gelaterias for around €3. You’ll want to try some of the local flavors and ingredients that make Bolognese gelato so famous.
Travel tip:
Walking is ideal for exploring Bologna in the evening. Take a leisurely stroll and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, and be sure to stop at a local café or bar for a coffee or drink along the way. If needed, use Bologna’s public transportation system to return to your accommodation.
Day 7: Turin
Morning Routine
Begin your day in Turin with a visit to the Mole Antonelliana, an iconic landmark of the city. Take the elevator to the top for stunning panoramic views. The entrance fee is €12. Afterward, head to Piazza Castello and explore the Royal Palace of Turin (Palazzo Reale), which includes a tour of the Royal Apartments and the Royal Armoury. The entrance fee is €15. For breakfast, enjoy a traditional Italian coffee and pastry at a nearby café for around €5.
Budget:
€12 for entrance to the Mole Antonelliana is a small price to pay for the stunning panoramic views of the city. And don’t forget to budget for a traditional Italian coffee and pastry at a nearby café for around €5. You’ll want to fuel up for a day of exploring this beautiful city!
Travel tip:
Walking is the best way to explore Turin’s central attractions as they are close to each other. Take your time and soak up the atmosphere of this charming city, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations from the friendly locals.
Afternoon Routine
For lunch, visit the Quadrilatero Romano, a historic district known for its charming streets and excellent eateries. Enjoy a traditional meal such as a plate of agnolotti pasta or a pizza for around €10. After lunch, spend some time at the Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio), one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities outside of Egypt. The entrance fee is €15.
Budget:
€10 for a traditional meal at a local trattoria is a great way to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to budget for entrance to the Egyptian Museum, one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities outside of Egypt, for€15. You won’t want to miss the stunning artifacts and rich history of this iconic landmark.
Travel tip:
Continue to explore on foot, as the Quadrilatero Romano and the Egyptian Museum are within walking distance from the morning’s attractions. Take your time and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of these areas, and be sure to try some of the local street food and drinks along the way.
Night:
In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Po River and visit the Parco del Valentino, a large park that is free to enter and offers beautiful views, historic buildings, and relaxing green spaces. For dinner, head to a local trattoria or osteria and enjoy Piedmontese cuisine such as vitello tonnato or bagna càuda, budgeting around €15-€20. After dinner, enjoy a gelato from a local gelateria for around €3. If needed, use Turin’s public transportation system, with a single ticket costing €1.70, to return to your accommodation.
Budget:
€15-€20 for a traditional Piedmontese meal at a local trattoria or osteria is a great way to end the day. And don’t forget to budget for a gelato from a local gelateria for around €3. You’ll want to try some of the local flavors and ingredients that make Piedmontese gelato so famous.
Travel tip:
Walking is ideal for enjoying the Parco del Valentino and nearby areas in the evening. Take a leisurely stroll and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful park, and be sure to stop at a local café or bar for a coffee or drink along the way. If needed, use Turin’s public transportation system to return to your accommodation.
Conclusion:
Throughout this itinerary, we’ve provided you with a detailed breakdown of daily routines, including morning, afternoon, and night activities, as well as budget-friendly tips and travel advice to help you make the most of your trip.
From visiting iconic landmarks like the Duomo in Milan and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence to exploring Palermo’s vibrant streets and Turin’s charming canals, this itinerary has something for everyone.
We’ve also included a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, from hostels to Airbnb apartments, to help you stay within your budget. And, of course, we’ve provided you with plenty of delicious and affordable dining options, from traditional trattorias to street food markets.
So, whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure-seeker, this 7-day Italy trip itinerary on a friendly budget has got you covered.
Before we say arrivederci, here are a few final tips to keep in mind:
- Always research and book your accommodations and transportation in advance to get the best deals.
- Be mindful of your budget and try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants or buying souvenirs from overpriced shops.
- Don’t be afraid to try new foods and drinks, and be sure to ask locals for recommendations on the best places to eat and drink.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery – Italy is a country that’s all about la dolce vita, or the sweet life, so be sure to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy every moment of your trip.
Grazie mille (thank you very much) for joining us on this 7-day Italy trip itinerary on a friendly budget. We hope you’ve found it helpful and informative, and we can’t wait to hear about your own Italian adventures!
Buon viaggio, and happy travels!
