Musings of a Rover

How Much Does A 10 Day Trip To Italy Cost?

Our trip to Italy definitely wasn’t a cheap one. But we were able to save some money.

How much does a trip to italy cost?

This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

So you want to go to Italy but need the answer to this question first: How much does a trip to Italy cost?  I get it. I was there. I know how expensive parts of Europe can be. And though my budget may have adjusted as I’ve gotten older, I’m still very conscientious about my money. And in case you have a similar feeling, I want to help you out.

This article shows every expense for our  10 day trip to Italy.

The expenses broken down below include everything from the moment we got on the plane to the moment we got off it. I’m not including our travel expenses to the airport. But please factor that into your budget.

(Think gas, food, airport food, and airport parking.)

Also note that I converted all Euros to US dollars. But we did luck out and go when the exchange rate was pretty reasonable.

So here it is, the cost for a 10 day trip to Italy for two people: $3,653.82

So read on for the full breakdown to see exactly where all that money went.

Table of Contents

Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, what was my cost per day in italy, how much should you budget for a trip to italy, how to save money in italy, read next: 10 day itinerary for italy.

Viewpoint in Florence, Italy - How much does a trip to italy cost?

How Much Does A Trip To Italy Cost?

  • Flights: $1,102.52
  • Train Tickets: $559
  • Vaporetto Tickets: $39
  • Milan Subway Tickets: $7
  • Left Luggage: $7

We got fairly cheap flights to Milan (only about $550 per person). But we did spend a lot of time on trains. That price includes tickets for 3 big journeys (Milan->Venice, Venice->Florence, & Florence->Milan). Each of these routes was about $50/person.

Want to know how I score cheap flights? I use Scott’s Cheap Flights ! It alerts you to deals for airports near you. If I’m not using my miles, I’m using Scott’s Cheap Flights.

We also took a day trip to Pisa (~$10 per person per way). And there was the train from Milan Airport to the main train station (~$16 per person per way).

Total Cost for Transportation (for 2 people): $1,714.52

Read Next: Just Two Days: 7 Spectacular Things To Do In Venice

things to do in venice - vaporetto; how much does a trip to italy cost

  • Venice for 2 Nights: $239.27
  • Florence for 5 Nights: $525.94
  • Milan for 1 Night: $92.51

We didn’t stay in any hostels this time around. But we roughly tried to stick to a budget of $100/night. As you can see we ended up going over that a little bit. But I ended up really liking all of the places we stayed at.

Our Venice room was incredible and we found a perfect central location.

And our Florence room was so close to the duomo. Less than a 5 minute walk.

Total for Accommodation: $857.72

Duomo in Forence, Italy - How much does a trip to italy cost?

  • Venice: $13 (breakfast and lunch)
  • Venice: $134 (dinners)
  • Florence: $224 (dinners)
  • Florence: $91 (breakfast, lunch, & gelato)
  • Pisa: $29 (lunch and snacks)
  • Milan: $56.50 (dinner)

Ryan and I love food. But we also know this can be a major expense. So we tried to eat sort of cheaply for a few nights. Both nights in Venice we ate big since we basically skipped lunches. And for two nights in Florence we got pizza or sandwiches.

But what about the nights we ate out in restaurants in Florence? Our average bill was ~$65. This was kept low-ish by the fact that we drank the house wine, ordered antipasti & first courses, and tried to go to places outside of the main tourist zone.

Total for Food (for 2 people): $547.50

Pizza in Florence, Italy - How much does a trip to italy cost?

  • Venice: $41
  • Florence: $177

We love to go out for drinks. A glass of wine, a cocktail, a beer. And we went out for something mosts of the nights we were there.

Now we usually only got 1 or 2 drinks, so this is not a budget for a heavy drinker. But this does accommodate a couple of drinks per night.

Total for Drinks (for 2 people): $244

How much does a trip to italy cost?

  • Venice Campanile: $20
  • Venice Doge Palace: $48
  • Florence Galleria dell’Accademia (David): $20
  • Florence Museo Del Duomo: $36
  • Florence Museo Galileo: $22
  • Pisa Leaning Tower: $43

Note that all of these prices have been converted to dollars and are for two people. Our two big costs here were the Doge Palace and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The best bang for our buck? The Museo Del Duomo. With this single ticket you get access to 5 attractions – including climbing to the top of the dome.

Total for Entrance Fees (for 2 people): $189

Read Next: My Quest To Find The Best Views In Florence

How much does a trip to italy cost?

  • More Pasta: $14.50
  • Earrings + Magnet: $18
  • Limoncello + Spreads: $21.50
  • Florence Magnet + Ornament: $14.50
  • Pisa Magnet: $2.50
  • Tobacco: $6
  • ATM Fees: $12.08 (wasn’t sure where to put this, so tacking it on here)

I tried to go easy on the souvenirs this trip and not just buy everything. We got some pasta to bring back home. And I always try to get a magnet or an ornament from the places we go to. But jeez, those pesky ATM fees. See my tips below for ways to combat this expense.

Total for Souvenirs: $101.08

How much does a trip to italy cost?

So for one person, my cost was $1,826.91. But if I cut out flights, so that you can see what my cost per day in Italy was while I was actually there.

Total Cost Per Day in Italy (per person): ~$128

And by category. (Though it’s important to realize that these costs per day above are for me alone.)

  • Transportation: $30.50 per day (again no flights here)
  • Accommodation: $43 per day
  • Food: $27.50 per day
  • Drinks: $12
  • Entrance Fees: $9.50
  • Souvenirs: $5

My answer to that question, how much does a 10 day trip to Italy cost? If my descriptions above sound similar to how you like to travel, then I would budget around ~$1,300 + flights.

Or you can think of it as $128 per day + flights if you have a shorter or longer trip.

With flights you can see my total was higher (around $1,800), but costs of flight will vary a lot based on where you are from, that is why I calculated it out separately.

And if you are traveling with another person (as I was), then this is doubled. If you are traveling solo, your cost will be higher as you won’t be able to split accommodation (or food) as much. But for two people, the budget above should give you a good idea of what each person’s expenses could be.

Traveling with another person (if you can) is one of my biggest money saving tips for Italy . The next section below talks about this even more if you’re interested!

Read Next: 10 Day Itinerary for Your Trip to Italy !

Florence Italy - How much does a trip to italy cost?

1. Eat outside of the tourist zones. It can be hard to find “local” places in Venice or Florence. But there is a big tourist zone in each of these cities. And so we usually went outside of it. That can definitely help if you want to lower some of your food costs.

2. Grab a small breakfast and lunch. This is a big thing we tried to do. We ate very light for breakfast and lunch. A cappuccino or espresso and a pastry. Then we were out and about. For lunch we sometimes just grabbed some cheap pasta or a sandwich to hold us over.

3. Stick to the first courses. These will be cheaper than the second courses. We liked to share an antipasti and then each get our own first course. Plus some house wine.

4. Don’t go out drinking every night. I think this should be fairly obvious. Alcohol is expensive. If you drink a lot, then you should put this in your budget.

5. Bring a reusable water bottle. Especially one that fits in your purse. Buying a plastic water bottle here or there will definitely start to eat into your expenses. Plus it’s better for the environment.

6. Buy your train tickets ahead of time. We did not do this. Since we were traveling in the winter we could just go to the station and get on a train within the hour. But doing this meant that we were definitely paying a bit more for tickets. Buy them ahead of time.

7. Travel with someone. Traveling with someone is huge. You can split accommodation costs. And sometimes meals as well. For most of our dinners, Ryan and I shared an antipasti and then each got our own pasta. Definitely the way to go.

8. Use a bank that will reimburse you for your ATM fees. I have Charles Scwabb and they reimburse me for all ATM fees. Yes all. Even the ones the machine charges. And they don’t charge one of those pesky % fees most banks do if you go to an ATM overseas.

Planning your trip to Italy?

  • Here’s  my 10 day itinerary  through Venice, Florence, Milan, and Pisa.
  • 7 beautiful things to do in Venice
  • Where to find the best views in Florence
  • 5 tips for your trip to Pisa

That’s it! Hopefully my expenses above and tips will help you plan your own budget for your trip to Italy!

Best Views in Florence

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy something through these thinks, I may earn a commission from the sale (at no extra cost to you!). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for reading along!

Related Posts

To Love Or Not Love Florence?

To Love Or Not Love Florence?

My Quest To Find The Best Views in Florence

My Quest To Find The Best Views in Florence

10 Days In Venice, Florence, & Milan: An Italy Itinerary

10 Days In Venice, Florence, & Milan: An Italy Itinerary

23 thoughts on “ how much does a 10 day trip to italy cost ”.

This article sums it up very nicely. Me & my wife are traveling over to Italy this April and were looking to see how much it would cost. Thank you.

Great! I’m glad you found it helpful! I hope you have a great trip.

My husband and I are looking into going to Italy but we are averaging 100 a person a night for hotel! help!

I think it’s definitely doable. We tried to stick to a $100/night budget. In Venice it was tough, but in Florence we did about $105/night. Depending on the time of year, this budget could be even harder. We went in November so things were cheaper do to the low season.

I would start looking sooner rather than later and be prepared to lower your standards a little or stay a little bit further out from the center.

Thank you for sharing. I’ve been wanting to travel to Italy. I think your information will help me greatly. I do was wondering about all the costs a trip like this would be and every single breakdown of it. ?

Information is very well explained. We both are planning to visit Rome this September. And we will be following your hotels. Regards

Thank you! I hope you have a great trip!

Just starting the planning on our trip. Probably going in about 2 yrs. This makes me hopeful it won’t cost as much as I was told. Do you mind telling me when this trip was? Thanks so much for writing this!

I hope you have an amazing trip! We went the week over Thanksgiving in 2017. Hopefully that helps you!

What’s the weather like in November?

The weather is iffy in November. It can be a very rainy and cloudy month. We lucked out and had beautiful sunny weather for 75% of our trip. November is definitely low season for a reason. We decided to go regardless and take advantage of the lower prices. And if we had rain, we had rain.

If you’re thinking of November, know that there could be rain.

Temperature wise, it was cool fall temperatures. I wore a medium jacket during the day and a heavier one at night. I also live in the south back home, so my idea of cold is not the same as everyone else’s. I’m a bit of a wimp when it comes to cold temperatures.

When I went to Italy, we weren’t on a budget at all (perhaps we spent way to much) but it is way easier to spend then to save in Italy. I recommend using a phone app or an online calendar to write down places to go and pricing; Plan it all in advance, and have backup plans in case the weather goes bad or something else happens (museum closure, etc.). Also the shops that look less for tourists are usually cheaper, as the tourist shops raise prices on things. Check out local markets for good deals on souvenirs.

Thanks for the great tips about shops! Definitely agree with you!

Curious – where did you get your flights through? Did you fly out of a major city?

We flew out of Miami (I don’t live in South Florida but we were down there). But I’ve seen some deals through other major cities near me like Atlanta. I use flight sales to plan my trips (and sometimes determine where exactly I go). I signed up for Scott’s Cheap Flights. They have free and paid notifications. Since I fly several times a year, saving sometimes hundreds of dollars on a flight is worth it to me to sign up for the paid notifications. Some cities don’t ever show up (like my Greenville), but I’ve seen ones near me for Charlotte, Raleigh, Asheville, Charleston (SC), and Atlanta. If you’re interested, I’d sign up for the free Scott’s Cheap Flights and see if your city (or nearby city) ever pops up and then decide if the paid notifications are for you! It’s a great way to find cheap flights!

When was this article written? Very helpful! Thank you

I’m glad you found this helpful! We traveled to Italy over Thanksgiving in 2017.

This was very helpful. Thank you!

What if I add Sorrento and Capri to that list? How many total days would I need? Also is it possible to see most of Florence in 3 days instead of 4?

I think you could definitely do Florence in 3 days. I tend to spend a bit longer in each place than most people. If you want to head to Southern Italy, I’d budget at least a day worth of travel to head to the south (maybe half a day if you’re lucky) and then at least 1-2 full days in each place.

Thanks Laura! I appreciate all the info! planning a trip next year!

Thank you for this post. It was very informative and well written out. Even if I may not follow your exact itinerary (I want to cut Florence and go to Rome), the breakdown helped immensely. I am planning to travel with my husband in October this year and this is going to be very helpful. I have an idea on what to add and what to remove from my budget. Its a marvel you didn’t spend more on souvenirs; I am afraid I may spend more on that. Thanks again for a very clear and concise post.

Couple questions, October would be off-season as well, right? What type of accommodations were you in?

I think October may be considered more fall than winter. So you may have more crowds than we did. But it’s still not the high season (summer).

For accommodations, we stayed in small hotels/guesthouses. So each establishment had less than 10 or so rooms. The rooms themselves were similar to a hotel. For Milan on our last night, we stayed in an Airbnb.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

We3Travel

How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost? 2024 Budget Worksheet

How much does a trip to Italy cost

I have traveled to Italy seven times in recent years and I have also planned about two dozen vacations to Italy for other families. Over the course of years, I have developed a really good sense of the prices of hotel rooms, tours, and transportation in Italy. So when someone asks me how much “does a trip to Italy cost”, I can rattle these numbers off pretty quickly.

Since budgeting is such a HUGE part of planning a trip, I thought I would lay it out for you and break down the average Italy trip budget to make it easy for you to plan — I’ve even included a helpful budget worksheet to get you started. Italy is a popular travel destination and while not as cheap as Ireland or Portugal , it isn’t as expensive as London or Paris . (See this post if you need help creating a family travel budget !)

Volterra walls

How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost?

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Before we jump into figuring out how much a trip to Italy costs, let’s first dive into a few budgeting and travel tips to keep in mind when planning a trip to Italy:

  • Summer is not only the most expensive time to visit, but given recent European heat waves in late June and July, it will be HOT so make sure you are looking at accommodations that offer air conditioning;
  • Honeymoon destinations like the Amalfi Coast ( Positano , Capri , Ravello , etc.) or the Cinque Terre are going to be especially busy in the summer and family-friendly accommodations are hard to find;
  • If traveling in the high season, plan on booking accommodations at least six months in advance for the best selection;
  • Villas/houses in the Tuscan countryside tend to rent for one-week minimum in the summer and rentals go from Saturday to Saturday so you need to plan your itinerary accordingly. You can always stay in hotels or smaller agriturismos that don’t have a minimum night stay requirement, but those will cost a bit more;
  • If you want to stay in the Italian countryside on a budget, look for places in Umbria (near smaller cities such as Orvieto or Assisi ), Emilia Romagna (near Bologna , Parma , or Verona ), or Piedmont in the North, instead of Tuscany to get a similar feel at a cheaper price point;
  • Main Italian cities like Rome , Florence , Venice , and Milan are more expensive to stay in versus the countryside so consider limiting your time in cities and doing day trips to save money (see my tips for driving in Italy ). Of these, Venice is especially expensive.

Colosseum

Not sure how to plan a trip to Italy? Get a detailed 10-day Italy Itinerary with 40 pages of day-by-day schedules, instructions, and maps.

Italy Budget Assumptions

For this example budget, I have based these expenses on a family of four. This sample family consists of two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11 and lives near a major airport hub in the USA. When planning your own trip budget, make adjustments as needed to suit your specific travel companions and travel style.

I’m going to assume that this family is traveling in the summer months since that is when most families visit Italy. This example family isn’t strictly budget travelers, but they are comfortable with three to four-star accommodations. Of course, traveling in the shoulder season would save money, but most families don’t have the flexibility or the budget for luxury hotels.

I’m also going to base this on a 12-day trip, with four nights in Rome and one week in Tuscany , which is a great first trip to Italy with kids this age. If you plan on visiting Venice, the Amalfi Coast, the Dolomites, Lake Como, or the Cinque Terre, expect to spend even more on accommodations and food.

The budget for a trip to Italy is made up of the following elements:

  • Hotel/Accommodations

Transportation

  • Souvenirs/Miscellaneous

I’ve seen Italy trip budgets out there that talk about traveling to Italy for $50-75 a day, per person, but I don’t think that is what a typical family vacation is going to look like. For my family, and others that I have worked with, we want our accommodations to be a little bit more comfortable, private, and centrally located. Families don’t always have the option of doing things on a shoestring budget (nor do they want to!).

Plus, the trip is much more enjoyable and memorable if you can splurge on things like a gondola ride or a private, kid-friendly guide that can engage children in sights like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums, vs. just paying for an entrance ticket.

So while this budget may sound a lot higher than others that you will find online, I also think it is much more realistic. Like everything when it comes to family travel, I’ve tried to strike a balance between budget and enjoyment.

Before we get into the details, the bottom line is that a 12 day trip to Italy for a family of four in the summer months will cost about $17,340, or $361 per person, per day.

San Gimignano best Tuscan towns

Airfare to Italy

Airfare in the summer can get pricey with direct flights averaging somewhere around $1700 per person on ITA Airways (the Italian replacement for Alitalia.) If you wait too long to book your airfare, it can easily get up there in price. To find the cheapest airfare, I would recommend purchasing tickets six months before your departure date (Cyber Monday after Thanksgiving is a good time to purchase airfare) and signing up for a service like Going that sends you alerts when destinations you are watching go on sale.

Generally, you will find better deals if you travel in and out to Rome on a round-trip ticket and if you can travel midweek versus the weekend. To save money, consider booking on a budget airline and connecting in Europe as you can usually find those for under $1000.

Of course, what we always try to do is save up our travel points that we earn on our credit card and use those to wipe out the cost of at least one or two of the airfares. If you want to find the best way to accumulate points and miles through credit card spending and sign up bonuses, I’d suggest downloading the  Travel Freely app  to track your credit cards and learn how to earn points.

Total airfare cost: $6,800 ($1700 per person)

Accommodations

Spanish Steps in Rome

Accommodations can be pricey, especially in Rome and other major cities in Italy. Keep in mind that very few hotels can accommodate a family of four in one hotel room. This can often mean you will need two rooms or a pricey suite. I’ve found that it is usually cheaper to get two smaller rooms than to get a large enough suite to accommodate a family.

In Rome, a four-star hotel will run you about $650 per night, per room if you want to stay in the historic city center. If you are traveling in the summer, you will probably also want a Rome hotel with a pool to cool off in the afternoon. Five-star hotels will run over $1500 per night and the super luxe can easily be $2000+ per room.

However, if you want to prioritize budget over luxury, there are economical mid-range hotel options that DON’T require you to stay far from the city center or in a shady part of town. Simple boutique hotels like the family-run Daphne Inn in Rome have a family room that will sleep four for under $400 per night, and it includes breakfast!

Of course, you can also do what we did and go the vrbo apartment rental route. We found a three-bedroom, two-bath apartment with a view of the Colosseum for $150-350 per night.

Find more places to stay in Rome:

Some other hotels that offer a family room or suite at an affordable price include:

  • Hotel Albergo del Senato near the Pantheon
  • Hotel Santa Maria in charming Trastevere
  • Hotel Ponte Sisto in the historic center

Total Rome accommodations: $1,800 ($450 x 4 nights)

Montefollonico in Tuscany

The price of accommodations can range wildly in Tuscany too. There are five-star resorts like Belmond’s Castello di Casole where you will spend well over $3000 per night. There are also plenty of budget-oriented, self-catering options like agriturismos or villa rentals .

With an agriturismo, you will have a self-catering apartment on a working farm. Generally, there is a shared pool and they may even offer things like breakfast or an on-site cooking class. Kids usually love this type of accommodation because it is authentic and there is room to play and sometimes farm animals roaming around. Not every property has a pool so if this is important to you, be sure to read the descriptions carefully.

Just keep in mind that agriturismos and many vacation rentals in Tuscany require a seven-night, Saturday-to-Saturday night stay. So if you fly into Italy on a Saturday morning, you would drive right from the airport into Tuscany and then finish your vacation in Rome.

A popular and very conveniently located agriturismo is Al Gelso Bianco . The furnishings are simple but the warm welcome from this family-run farm does everything to make you comfortable. Here an apartment for four can go as low as $1500-3500 for a week in high season.

When selecting an agriturismo, be sure to look into if room air conditioners or fans are available, as those are not typically found in these traditional farmhouses. Also, learn what dining options are available. Does the stay include breakfast or is it entirely self-catered? If there is dinner available, does it need to be organized in advance? This is often the case because the meals are cooked by the owners and ingredients need to be purchased that day. Not many agriturismos offer a full-service restaurant, but some that focus more on the hotel portion of the property may have limited services.

Find places to stay in Tuscany:

Total Tuscany accommodations: $2,500

Ponte Vecchio in Florence

If you are spending a week in Tuscany, you are going to need a car. I recommend using Auto Europe to find the best rates across vendors. You should also book early as prices fluctuate and will continue to rise the closer you get to departure. Ideally, book by the end of January, especially if you want an automatic as the inventory is quite limited since most Europeans drive a manual transmission.

Just keep in mind that you are going to pay a premium for an automatic transmission and you may want to size up to make sure there is room for your luggage as European cars have small trunks. In my experience, an automatic station wagon that will nicely fit a family of four without being too big to manage the Tuscan hills, will cost about $600-$1500 for a weeklong rental depending on if you drop it off at the same airport or at another one. It may be tempting to rent a van or SUV, but you may regret it later when driving through small Tuscan towns or on narrow roads. Instead, encourage everyone to pack light and bring smaller luggage.

Since you don’t want to drive in Rome, I would recommend arriving on Saturday morning, picking up your rental at the FCO airport, and driving to your accommodations in Tuscany. Then, on the following Saturday, drop your rental back off at the Rome airport and then catch a cab or arrange a car service into the city (I use Welcome Pickups ) and then back out on your departure. A car service to/from the airport will run approximately $65-80 and a cab is closer to $50 but it may be more cramped for your family.

You can also take a train from the airport to the Termini station in Rome, but I wouldn’t really recommend staying in that neighborhood so you will probably need to get a cab from there anyway. You could also take a regional train from Rome to Florence and get a rental car there. Train travel in Italy is pretty easy (just make sure you validate your train ticket before you board!) but when you are staying in the countryside, you are going to need a car.

When pumping gas in Italy, make sure you know if the car is diesel or unleaded. I’ve seen some disasters after people put regular gas into a diesel car! See my other tips for driving in Italy .

Total transportation: $1000

Tours and Activities

Duomo in Florence

If you are traveling with kids, I highly recommend private tours. Whenever you take a group tour, you never know who is going to be part of your group and how that may disrupt your experience. There are so many family-friendly options, including some really fun and unique ways to explore Rome with kids. Private tours will usually run around $450 for a family of four.

If you want to save money, you can book a small group tour. Companies like LivTours offer small groups of no more than six people and Walks of Italy’s small groups are less than 12.

In Rome, I would highly recommend tours for the following attractions:

  • An intro to Rome walking tour with gelato
  • Colosseum tour for kids
  • Vatican Museum / Sistine Chapel or a Vatican private tour for kids

If the budget allows, I would add tours for the following:

  • Catacombs and Roman underground
  • Food tour with Devour Tours (for older kids/teens)

Luckily, when you are in Tuscany it is easy to spend the week taking day trips to visit towns like Lucca, Pisa, Siena , San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Montalcino , and Pienza . However, you may want to think about a family-friendly wine or food/cheese tour with a company like Tuscan Organic Tours or a bike tour with On the Road in Chianti .

However, at a minimum, you will want to take a day trip into Florence and take a tour of the city highlights or get skip-the-line tickets to the Accademia and/or Uffizi, as well as pre-book timed entry tickets to climb the Duomo .

Total tours: $2,000 (4 x $450 + tickets)

Pasta at La Bandita Townhouse in Pienza

The price of food can vary, but if you stay away from the highly touristic areas (this means walking a block or two away from any main attraction), there are plenty of affordable and delicious options. Keep in mind that a trattoria or an osteria is less formal and less expensive than a ristorante. You can also usually purchase pizza or panini and take them to go for picnics or inexpensive, casual meals.

Also, if you order your coffee and pastry at a bar and eat inside, it will be much cheaper than ordering table service and sitting outside on a piazza. That said, sometimes it is worth the price, especially when eating Tartufo and people-watching in Piazza Navona.

We tend to overspend on food, but that said, I would still plan on budgeting at least $170 for the family a day on food if you are happy with pizza and pasta. Foodies looking for fine dining experiences should budget a bit more. The good news about staying at an agriturismo is that you will likely have access to a kitchen and can prepare some meals at your lodging. This is always a great money saver and allows you to then splurge on those days when you are visiting cities or towns.

Total food: $2040

Souvenirs & Miscellaneous Expenses

While we would rather spend our travel budget on experiences versus things, there are some items that make perfect souvenirs from an Italy trip. These include wooden toys, leather goods, purses/bags, painted ceramics, blown glass, lace and linens, wine, and olive oil.

You will also want to set aside some budget for the little things including tips for your tour guides, parking (remember to bring coins in Tuscany!), gas, and taxis. I generally use a rule of thumb of $50 per day.

Total Miscellaneous: $500

Travel Insurance

I would recommend protecting your trip with travel insurance. Pricing varies depending on your level of coverage, ages, trip costs, and more. However, I would use $600-1,000 as a rough estimate (kids under 17 are usually free.)

If you follow this modest budget, your total trip to Italy cost would come to a grand total of…

Average total Family trip to Italy cost: $17,340

The bottom line is that a 12-day trip to Italy costs about $1,445 per day for a family of four . Keep in mind that there are ways to do this for less including using points for airfare or connecting with a budget airline, staying in vacation rentals, taking small group tours or self-guided exploration, cooking your own meals, and limiting your extra spending.

Of course, if you have champagne tastes, you can easily triple this cost with luxury accommodations, private transportation, and fine dining. We try to land somewhere in the middle between budget and super-luxe and that is what this budget is based on.

Download your Italy Budget Worksheet

Keep track of your expenses as you plan your trip with this downloadable Italy trip planning budget worksheet. Download the PDF worksheet .

Italy trip planning budget worksheet

VISITING ITALY? YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN…

  • Get tips for  driving in Italy
  • Get itineraries for  Rome ,  Florence ,  Venice ,  Bologna ,  Parma , and  Milan
  • See tips and things to do in  Ravello ,  Cinque Terre ,  Siena,   Assisi

PIN THIS FOR LATER

How much does a trip to Italy cost

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: November 29, 2023

Brand_Element_1.png

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & RECEIVE A FAMILY VACATION PLANNING KIT!

We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting [email protected] . By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

fam-book

Start typing and press enter to search

The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost in 2024: Detailed Budget Breakdown

Written By: The Planet D

Italy , Travel Planning

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Italy is one of our favorite destinations in Europe. After visiting the country multiple times over the years we always get the same questions – is Italy expensive? How much does the average trip to Italy cost? Italy is a brilliant destination to travel to, whether you are a solo traveler or a family looking for a special holiday. But it is safe to say that the actual costs of visiting Italy vary depending on your travel style.

Table of Contents

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Italy?

In this guide, we’ll break down the average trip to Italy cost and show you how, where possible, you make it more cost-effective.

How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost venice

Italy is often associated with luxury – stunning villas, fine dining, archaeology, and the arts. But that doesn’t mean you can’t tailor your trip to Italy to suit different budgets. Is Italy expensive? After all our trips to the different regions of Italy we are going to fill you in on how much a trip to Italy costs.

When we have visited Italy, we always rent a car. We love having the freedom to go off the beaten path and to stop whenever we like. You can check car rental comparisons here.

Italy Trip Cost Airfare in flight

Airfare is the first bridge you’ll likely come to when booking a trip to Italy. The good news is that Italy has regular flights to all its major cities, so finding a round-trip ticket is neither problematic nor massively expensive if you visit from a nearby destination. The average budget traveler can find the best deals and cheap flights to Italy. This is simply because flight demand isn’t high – there are so many options when flying to Italy. The country has a staggering 77 airports and hosts dozens of airlines. One thing is for sure: you will always find flights to Italian cities, and the average price is low, so it won’t be one of your main trip costs.

Of course, airfare prices do vary depending on your departure date and destination. As a general rule, flights to Italy from Europe are the cheapest. Flights from the US to Italy are slightly more expensive due to budget-spiking transatlantic crossings and fewer charters. However, that doesn’t mean you are doomed for cheap flights.

Italy Trip Cost Airfare Ryanair

The cheapest times of year to fly to Italy are out of season and in shoulder seasons. The shoulder seasons are March to May and September to October. The official ‘off-season’ is over winter, from November to February. You can also save money on flights by booking in advance, using VPNs to adjust your network, and using airline loyalty programs. There’s always a way to maximize budgeting opportunities. Another essential thing to consider for those flying from the US is value for money.

Can you take advantage of cheaper European flights by taking a longer holiday period? This way, you might spend more flying to Italy, but once there, you could add a few extra destinations cheaply. For instance, taking flights for as little as $15 to Germany, Greece, or Turkey.

  • Return Flight Cost from Europe: $60 to 200
  • Return Flight Cost from US: $400 to 7000

Accommodation in Italy Costs

How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost accommodation

Your next significant cost after airfare is accommodation. Accommodation is a double-edged sword when calculating your trip to Italy cost. In fact, looking at the price tag of a luxury Italy trip is likely what has got you questioning, ‘Is Italy expensive?’. The reality is that Italy does luxury, and it does it well. Like the south of France, Italy has a reputation for Riviera beauty and luxury hotels that attract A-list celebrities.

You can indeed find hotel rooms that cost tens of thousands a night. Of course, the flip side is also true; you can comfortably backpack it in a hostel dormitory for as little as $40 a night. There are a few factors to consider, so let’s take a closer look so you know what sways it so much.

Choosing Accommodation in Italy

The biggest decider in Italian accommodation is whether you want budget, mid-range, or luxury accommodation. With budget accommodation, you can choose dormitory-style accommodation, or B&B-style stays.

Most hotels offer a mid-range experience, with moderate prices and occasional luxuries like swimming pools that can hone your Italy itinerary and experience. Luxury hotels come in two categories: average luxury and celebrity-style luxury. You can pick up five-star hotel stays for €250 per night, but equally, some five-star hotels charge upwards of €1,000 per night – the real decider is location, hotel brand, and your hotel room choice. For the most part, most travelers pick the middle road with mid-range hotels, which average around €100 a night.

What to Consider When Booking a Trip to Italy

Italy Trip Cost Accomodations NH Santo Stefano Hotel Turin Piedmont

When considering what goes into accommodation pricing, consider location and time of year. Summer is the peak season, so you should avoid summer in Italy if you prioritize saving money. If you want a more affordable hotel room, look at shoulder season travel, where you find the same room up to 50% cheaper.

Location also plays a massive role in your trip budget. For instance, an entire apartment in an Italian city center versus a secluded VRBO property or hotel in the Tuscan countryside can vary greatly in price. If you can get out of touristy areas, like Rome city center or Venice, accommodation prices naturally fall.

Vacation rentals are also a great idea to save money, especially if you are flexible on location – rolling hills don’t always come at a sky-high price. If you are willing to stay remotely and in vacation rentals, it can save money on your Italy trip.

  • Budget Hotels: $40-80 per night
  • Mid-Range Hotels: $100 per night
  • Luxury Hotels: $250 per night
  • Vacation Rentals: $50 upwards per night

Transportation Cost

Italy Trip Cost Transportation Cost walking

Transportation in Italy can be a make or break when calculating an Italy travel budget. The country is brilliantly connected by public transportation, with a train travel trend carried by low ticket prices and high-speed connections. If you want to save money, train travel is the way forward as long as you book in advance.

Booking up to a month in advance can give you access to fantastic train travel deals – great for budget travelers. Just be sure you purchase tickets for train travel, as Italy has notorious laws on fining fare hoppers. Trust us: skipping fares in Italy is not the way to go for budget travel.

Italy also has ferry and bus services, which are used far less frequently than the train travel routes. The ferries are most popular in areas like Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, where many coastal towns are less accessible by road. You can typically book tickets in advance for ferries or take local, smaller shuttle boats on the day. Buses are simply less popular for comfort reasons.

We love renting cars when traveling in Italy. Check car rental prices here. We have found some great deals that work out to be cheaper than train travel if booked at the right time.

Italy Trip Cost Transportation Cost Ferry

While the bus may be the holy grail for the budget traveler in most countries, in Italy, train travel usually rivals bus prices if you book in advance. And for the same cost, it makes sense that you’d want a faster and more comfortable journey. Buses are the budget option for last-minute public transport journeys – usually $2 per ticket for inner-city travel or around $35 for long-distance buses.

Finally, one of the most popular ways to get around Italy is by car rental. Car rentals   can  be really effective. If you are travelling in a group, for instance, as a family or group of friends. This can quickly rack up public transport costs and make spending an upfront fee (usually between $10 and $30 a day) more effective on a car rental plus any additional fuel costs.

If you plan on taking many day trips or staying remotely, a rental car can be a lifesaver. Remember any additional parking costs you might incur at your accommodation, and know that Italy has many toll roads.

If you stay in a city center where you can find most things within walking distance, you won’t need a car rental. You can always book private transfers from the airport if you travel at unsociable hours or head to the metro station or train station for a day trip.

  • Transport Budget: $30 per day with a car rental

How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost food

You can’t visit Italy without a solid food budget, and that’s from no fault of its own. Italy has one of the world’s most famous – and arguably delicious – cuisines. We’ve already got  an entire guide  dedicated to the top dishes you should try when you holiday in Italy. If you are in the stages of forming your Italy itinerary, just know food will undoubtedly make up a significant proportion of it. So, with all that said, what does a trip to Italy cost when discussing a food budget?

The average restaurant meal in a major city center is around $70 per person; this is more like $20-30 per person outside of popular areas. Takeaway dishes cost around $10-15. It is important to remember that the coperto (aka the extra cost for sitting down) is added onto most bills in centrally located restaurants and calculated per person.

How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost dining

It is customary to tip around 10%. However, the Italian tipping culture is much more relaxed than the tipping culture in the US. When questioning ‘Is Italy expensive?’, you need to consider whether, and if so, when and where you will eat out. We’d suggest dining out at least once just for the Italian food experience. However, a compromise for a week in Italy might be two sit-down meals, a food tour, and then takeaway or street food for lunch and cooking other meals at your accommodation.

Food is the number one reason people choose Italy, so try to set aside a generous budget. Think of it as cultural immersion or an investment in activities. Everyone deserves to experience fine dining on the Amalfi Coast with air conditioning and stunning ocean views – just set aside around $100 to comfortably budget. And if you can, find accommodation with kitchen facilities to cook your own meals and save money.

  • Food Budget: $20 a day without sit-down restaurants or $100 a day with sit-down restaurants

Tours and Activities

Best Day Trips from Rome Trenitalia train to Pisa

Finally, what about tours and activities? It goes without saying that part of what makes Italy so fabulous is its array of things to do.

There are Roman ruins to tour, sunset cruises, and museum tours – and that’s not to mention the abovementioned food tours. Your trip to Italy cost will be massively dictated by your entertainment choices, but it shouldn’t be any other way. Adding to your Italy trip cost with lifelong memories is worthwhile. Just keep in mind your tour and activity expectations when planning a budget: will you tour the Amalfi Coast on your trip to Italy, or are you backpacking in Rome?

One thing to know about Italy is that it does luxury and ‘exclusive experiences’ really well. You need to evaluate what is on your to-do list. Is a gondola ride in Venice catching your eye, or are you looking at budget day trip destinations and museum entry fees? There’s no denying that a gondola ride is one of the  best things to do in Venice , but if you want to splurge on special experiences, you will have to budget more.

We’d recommend narrowing down your ‘exclusive experiences’ to a select few if you want to keep to a reasonable budget. You can then bulk up your itinerary with low-cost and free tours and activities. For instance, the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, or a boat trip. You can also plan tourist attractions like stopping to see the Trevi Fountain, which costs nothing.

Independent Travel or Group Tour in Italy

Italy Trip Cost Tours and Activities Piazza del Popolo Rome

When it comes to your itinerary in Italy, you have the option to book guided experiences and the option to travel solo. Traveling solo can cut your upfront costs, while guided experiences provide peace of mind. For instance, a day trip from Milan to Lake Como costs as little as $4 by public transportation ,  yet around $100 for a  guided tour.

You could cut costs by taking the day trip or save stress and time by spending extra money on a guided day trip. As a side note, if you visit attractions rather than destinations, many attractions in Italy have options for self-guided audio tours when you actually enter. We’d recommend downloading audio tours if you are visiting solo as you’ll will gain a much better appreciation of the monuments you are visiting/

When considering guided tours, an important consideration is whether they are private. A group tour versus private tours vary massively in cost. So, if you’d like to save money but still have a guided experience, we’d suggest shopping for group tours. Keep in mind a single supplement for solo traveler visitors, though, which applies for both group and private excursions – frustrating, we know. You should always check specific policies per tour company.

  • Tours and Activities Budget: $300 per week

Overall Trip Cost

10 day trip italy cost

With all that in mind, what is the total trip to Italy cost? What exactly should you budget? You see tons of average price statistics floating around and various Italy vacation packages, so it is essential to have a concrete number reflecting the ‘real’ cost of a holiday in Italy.

We’ve broken down the ‘big’ Italy budget into all the factors (airfare, food, tours, etc.), so let’s quickly review them before we give you our final figures.

Italy Trip Cost Airfare AlItalia

Regarding flights, budget around $1000 return from Europe in shoulder seasons and $1500 from the US. You can find flights priced above and below these rates, but as a general rule, these are the average prices to expect.

Accommodations

Italy Trip Cost Accommodations Lucca

Accommodation prices in Italy is pretty simple: the more stars, the more expensive the hotel. And the more central the location, the higher the fees. Budget approximately $60 per night for a central budget hotel, $100 for a mid range, and $250 for a luxury. Vacation rentals are anything upwards of $50 per night.

For the vast majority of people who go for mid-range hotels, $700 – $1000 is a reasonable rate to budget and expect for a week’s accommodation in Italy.

Transportation

Italy Trip Cost Transportation Portoferraio Isle of Elba

Transportation is tough to calculate because it massively depends on where you are staying. If you are staying in the city center, you should budget as little as $40 for a whole week on public transportation. You can walk to all the main tourist attractions, which costs nothing. Even if you go on a day trip or catch a local bus or tram, public transport should cost as little as $2-30. A $40 weekly transportation budget should allow you to take a day trip, use public transport for airport transfers, and get around occasionally by inner-city transport to take a break from walking.

If you hire a car, this price will increase. If you hire a car, budget around $30 daily for rental car fees, petrol, and parking. In a week, this totes up to $210.

Italian Food Spaghetti carbonara

For food, it does depend on your travel style. You can easily spend $20 a day on food if you just purchase takeaway or street food style meals for lunch and cook your own meals for breakfast and dinner. Whereas, if you want to eat out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you should budget $100 daily. To get the best of both worlds, we’d suggest a weekly budget of $300 or $400 if you want to try fancy cocktails and aperitifs. This should allow two days of dining out and five days of cooking meals and getting takeaway lunches.

Italy Trip cost and budget Positano

For tours and activities, you should budget approximately $300 per week. This budget considers one guided tour of up to $100, one luxury experience of around $80, plus up to six standard $20 entry rates for tourist attractions. With $300, it is safe to say that you are comfortably within budget to enjoy a couple of significant bucket list experiences and get an excellent insight into the tourist attraction scene. You’ll be able to have at least two tourist attractions a day.

  • Per-Day Budget: $240 if you fly from Europe and rent a car, and $295 if you fly from the US and rent a car
  • Total Italy Trip Cost: $1660 if you fly from Europe and rent a car, and $2060 if you fly from the US and rent a car

Money Saving Tips

How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost  tips

It is all well and good knowing the average trip to Italy cost. But what about learning how to reduce the average cost of an Italy trip? An average price is just that – an average. That doesn’t mean that you can’t reduce it further and make some serious reductions. Even a tiny compromise, like taking public transport, not private transfers, can significantly reduce the cost of visiting Italy.

This section will reveal the top tips and tricks for lowering Italy’s budget. Here’s how to save money on your trip to Italy.

1. Avoid Sit Down Restaurants or Cook at Home

Italy Trip Cost Avoid Sit Down Restaurants or Cook at Home

A huge factor in your trip to Italy cost is sit-down restaurants. This might seem oddly specific, but it is a famously price-boosting thing in Italy. You instantly get charged more when you sit down at a city center restaurant. There’s even a name for this: the coperto. The coperto is a flat rate cover charge that is calculated on a per-person basis. But this is where it gets even more expensive – it is the same whether you order a drink and bread or a four-course meal. This means that if you want to sit down, you’ll have to pay an extra cost, even if you dined on a budget.

Not all restaurants and cafes have a coperto. However, a safe rule of thumb is that if you are in a ‘competitive’ area, like the center of Rome or Venice, you should expect an additional charge for sitting down. The coperto acts as insurance for the restaurant or café business, meaning no matter how much you spend, they will be compensated for not having an empty table for a different guest. It would help if you always aimed to buy takeaway food or street food in these busy areas. Or if you are desperate to dine sitting down, then head out of the city center and into quieter suburbs.

Similarly, you can save money by cooking at your accommodation. Self-catered accommodation with your only kitchen is a real travel hack for cutting costs and avoiding things like the coperto.

2. Travel in Shoulder Seasons

Italy Trip Cost Travel in Shoulder Seasons

You don’t need us to tell you that traveling at different times of year bags you different prices. The peak season is notoriously bad for budget, no matter where you go. Peak season just means the time when the destination is deemed ‘most impressive’ by mass tourism. This is summer for Italy since it is primarily a beach holiday and al fresco dining destination. June to August is the peak season for Italy, when you will be competing amongst other tourists for everything from tickets to accommodation, and local vendors and business owners hike up the prices to meet the rise in demand.

If you want to play your Italy budgeting tactically, you could book to visit in winter. Contrary to popular belief, the country gets cold, especially in northern Italy. You can expect an average temperature of between – 5 degrees Celsius and 15 degrees Celsius, with southern Italy warmer than the north and its mountainous regions. This idea is excellent if you don’t care about beach days and want to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s in Italy. It is also the perfect time to visit museums and galleries, which are much more enjoyable without overheating.

However, you don’t need to go as extreme on budgeting as that if you still want beach days and warm weather of low to mid-twenties. The best way to budget while sticking as close to peak season is with shoulder seasons. March to May and September until October are the optimum seasons to experience Italy well and cheaply. These months have cheaper accommodations and tours, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds.

3. Take Local Transportation

Italy Trip Cost Take Local Transportation

Visiting Italy can get expensive if you constantly spend on private transfers and even a car rental- especially concerning petrol, toll roads, and parking fees. One really effective way to save money is with local transportation. Italy has a fabulous train system, with a train station in all major cities and most significant towns. In fact, tickets can be as little as $9 for a regional journey. Booking train tickets in advance can be a brilliant way to take day trips or an alternative to road-tripping or flying between cities.

Italy also has a fantastic ferry system and buses. You will be able to navigate the country by public transport. On the other hand, private transfers and taxis can get expensive. For instance, when booked in advance, a train ticket from Milan to Rome costs as little as $35. Milan to Rome by rental car costs a minimum of $104 for fuel. A private transfer from Milan to Rome costs as much as $190 one way.

Ironically, public transport is also often much quicker. Milan to Rome takes just over 3 hours by train, yet 5.5 hours by car. Snag the better deal and get there faster. Taking local transportation is one of the best ways to cut costs when visiting Italy.

4. Avoid Major Cities and Tourist Hotspots – Off the Beaten Path

italy trip costs off the beaten path

This one might sting, but if you  really  want to save money on your Italy trip, avoid major cities and tourist hotspots. These cities and hotspots are like vampires for your Italy budget. Everything from food to accommodation and even water bottles get hiked up in price in these places.

If you aren’t too fussy about where you stay, think outside the box and get creative. Head off the tourist track, and you’ll find much more reasonable rates. And you’ll be pioneering more authentic and sustainable travel – a moral boost and a budgeting tip.

There is a small ‘but’ to this top tip. You can always stay outside of a major city. This way, you can take advantage of local transport and cheap rail prices for day trips into the city. You can benefit from the city’s tourist attractions without spending extra on accommodation and food.

5. Know Your Discounts

Italy Trip Cost Know Your Discounts Spiral Staircase Vatican Museums

Lastly, you should know your discounts when trying to lower your trip to Italy. Simple things like a student ID or pensioner card can prove you are eligible for discounts. You should always carry some form of ID if you qualify for discounts, and similarly, do your research before entering an attraction or venue where you think you could be eligible. You could even learn a basic phrase in Italian that you can use to respectfully enquire about discounts. One example of an attraction you can save on with a student ID is the Vatican museums, which knock off approximately 7 euros ($7.42) if you display a student card. Every little helps, right?

Researching discounts and rates before you go is also a healthy practice when sticking to a budget and a great rule to live by if you are a budget traveler. Many museums have free days or cheaper times, while bars and restaurants might have happy hours. And you can adjust your visit to attractions and venues to get better deals. It is a win-win.

Trip to Italy Cost: FAQs

Best Things to do in Rome Italy

So, now you have an overview of a general trip to Italy cost, what do you think: is Italy expensive? As you can see, the average cost of a trip to Italy does vary depending on factors like travel style, when you travel, and where you go in Italy. Lots of small choices can massively impact your overall Italy budget.

Are you ready for some FAQs? These answers will give you the snapshot information you need to transform your trip for the better. Consider this section the cherry on top of your Italy budget planning.

How much is a trip to Italy for 7 days?

If you fly from Europe and rent a car, it costs approximately $1660 to travel to Italy for 7 days. If you fly from the US and rent a car, it costs around $2060.

Is Italy very expensive to visit?

Italy can be expensive if you opt for luxury hotels, private tours, fine dining, and popular peak-season areas. This is entirely down to travel style, though, and you can easily do Italy on a budget if you cook your own food, backpack, and take public transport. Small compromises and budgeting decisions go a long way in Italy.

What is the cheapest month to go to Italy?

The cheapest months to visit Italy are over winter, with November as the absolute cheapest. Most people visit Italy in the summer and use March to May and September to October as the slightly more affordable, yet still warm, shoulder season. If you visit between November and February, you can find the absolute cheapest prices to visit Italy.

How much does it cost to go to Italy for a weekend?

Visiting Italy for the weekend costs around $550 if you fly from Europe and $950 from the US. This budget factors in public transport costs, a budget of $100 for tourist attractions, flights, and mid-range accommodation in a city center location.

To Conclude

Best Things to do in Piedmont Italy Turin Duomo

Now you have as accurate as possible an idea of what your trip to Italy will cost, you can answer the question for yourself: is Italy expensive? You can use some of our top tips to save money when visiting Italy. You don’t have to visit Italy for a luxury trip, although if you do, you will undoubtedly go to the right place. Italy is incredible – no matter your budget. With the right attitude, you can find some fantastic accommodation choices, tours, food, and flight deals. Read next: Is Greece Expensive to Visit

There are so many amazing  things to do  – including sailing on Lake Como, visiting remains of Roman cities and amphitheaters where gladiators fought, and just kicking back with cocktails on stunning beaches that a trip to Italy is a must for any travel lover. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Italy today.

Looking for more inspiration? Just check out these  facts about Italy to make you smile.  Or get some inspiration on  hiking in the beautiful Cinque Terre  region, which should already be on your bucket list.

Plan Your Next Trip To Italy With These Resources

  • Best Things to Do in Piedmont, Italy
  • 15 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy for Travelers
  • 16 Best Things to Do in Lake Como, Italy
  • 14 Remarkable Towns in Tuscany, Italy
  • 28 Best Things To Do in Milan
  • 23 Best Things To Do In Sicily, Italy in 2024
  • The Ultimate One Day in Rome Itinerary: How To Maximize Your Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Where to Stay in Rome: Our Favourite Places And Neighbourhoods (2024)

Where to Stay in Rome: Our Favourite Places And Neighbourhoods (2024)

Where to Stay in Venice, Italy in 2024: 5 Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

Where to Stay in Venice, Italy in 2024: 5 Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

23 Best Things to Do In Sicily, Italy in 2024

23 Best Things to Do In Sicily, Italy in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost in 2024: Detailed Budget Breakdown”

Thanks guys for sharing this some many useful tips and cost of ITALY also superb attractions, sceneries too guys.

Wanderlust Crew

  • Switzerland
  • The Netherlands
  • National Parks
  • Affording Travel
  • Photography
  • Responsible Travel
  • Worldschool
  • Wanderlust Guides
  • Travel Planning
  • Work with Us

Europe , Italy , Travel

How to spend 10 days in italy: 5 italy itinerary ideas for 2024.

10 day trip italy cost

If you’re wondering how to spend 10 days in Italy, I’ve got you covered with these 5 itineraries! Discover the beauty, history, culture, and wonder with the perfect Italy itinerary.

If you're wondering how to spend 10 days in Italy, I've got you covered with these 5 itineraries! Discover the beauty, history, culture, and wonder with the perfect Italy itinerary.

How to Spend 10 Days in Italy: 5 Amazing Itinerary Ideas for your Trip to Italy

Italy is an incredible country that should be on any traveler’s bucket list! Italy has given us so much: the Renaissance, famous artwork, timeless classical music, stunning architecture, pasta, pizza, gelato …need I say more? Not only is Italy the birthplace of so many things, but it is also home to breathtaking natural beauty , from the lakes and mountains in the north to the gorgeous stretches of coastline on either side of the country.

  • Here are my top 10 day Italy itineraries:
  • Gotta See it All: Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, Lake Como, & Venice
  • Classic Italy: Rome, Florence, & Venice
  • Northern Lakes of Italy: Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Como , & Lake Maggiore
  • Italian Island Hopping: Sardinia & Sicily
  • Exploring Tuscany: Florence, Siena, Chianti, & San Gimignano

Here's a Short Cut

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Italy Itinerary complete with interactive maps and daily schedule? Click the yellow button below.

How many days do i need to see italy, how do i plan a 10 day trip to italy, the best time to visit italy, getting around italy, how much is a trip to italy going to cost, first trip to italy suggestions, where are the best places to visit in italy, what to do in italy, what to pack for italy, itinerary #1: gotta see it all, day 1 & day 2: rome, traveling from rome to amalfi, day 3: amalfi coast, traveling from amalfi to florence, day 4: florence, traveling from florence to pisa, day 5: florence/pisa, traveling from pisa to cinque terre, day 6: cinque terre, traveling from cinque terre to milan, day 7: milan & lake como, traveling from milan to lake como, day 8: lake como, traveling from lake como to venice, day 9 & 10: venice, italy itinerary 10 days #2: classic italy, days 1-3: rome, traveling from rome to florence, day 4-6: florence, traveling from florence to venice, day 7-10: venice, itinerary #3: northern lakes of italy, day 1: milan, day 2-3: lake garda, day 4: lake iseo, day 5-7: lake como, day 8-9: lake maggiore, day 10: milan, itinerary #4: italian island hopping, day 1-5: sardinia, getting to sardinia, day 6-10: sicily, getting to sicily, itinerary #5: exploring tuscany, day 1: florence, day 2: home base, day 3: lucca & pisa, day 4: home base, day 5: chianti, day 6: home base, day 7: san gimignano, day 8: home base, day 9: siena, day 10: florence, practical tips for booking your trip.

We love Italy and have spent time living there and also being tourists there many times! It’s one of our favorite places to visit over and over again.

10 day trip italy cost

Any trip to Italy will be amazing, but I wanted to give you a few Italy itinerary options to choose from. They are all great options, but everyone has different tastes, and one might be a better fit for your needs and group.

If you want to learn more about Italy before planning your trip, be sure to read my complete Italy Travel Guide. 

10 day trip italy cost

Join my Italy Travel Group on Facebook for more helpful tips!

How long should you plan for your trip around Italy? How about indefinitely? Two weeks in Italy is really nice, but if that’s not an option for you, I think that 10 days in Italy is a good amount of time for your first visit. It will allow you to see around three sites without getting too worn out, and it’s the average paid vacation time for most Americans.

A full 10 days in Italy gives you enough time to visit several cities in the country and have some in-depth experiences without feeling too rushed. But if you only have one week in Italy, you can still have a great time. Just cut one location out of any of these itineraries and you’ll be fine! There are so many things to do in Italy and you’ll never be able to see them all, but you can see the best!

If you’re stressing about how to plan a trip to Italy, take a deep breath. Anywhere you choose will be great! Once you’ve decided to spend 10 days in Italy, it’s time to get planning your trip! This is the fun part, but it can also be pretty stressful. Be sure to read all the information here , and once you pick which itinerary works best for you, do all the research you can!

The best time to travel to Italy can be a tricky question! The best time to go to Italy will be different depending on what you want to do or see. If you want to see snowy mountains in the Dolomites or go skiing, obviously you’ll want to go in the winter. If you want to spend most of your time on the beach, you’ll want to go in the summer. Summer in Italy can be hot, humid, and really crowded. So if you want to see the big cities, it’s best to go during shoulder season (April-May or September-October).

The best time of year to visit Italy is probably May or September in my opinion.  Keep your preferences in mind when choosing when to go to Italy. I give my recommendation for each itinerary below.

Getting around Italy can be fun and easy! In my opinion, traveling by train is the best way to travel around Italy and see the country. It allows you to sit back and relax between destinations, and with the cost of fuel and tolls in Italy, it’s actually the most affordable way to travel Italy. Traveling around Italy by train can sound a little scary if you don’t know what you’re doing. Be sure to read my guide so that you feel confident before booking tickets and traveling by train.

Read My Guide to Train Travel in Italy Here

Many will recommend purchasing a Rail Pass for your trip to Italy. A Rail Pass allows you to ride many trains in Italy without a reservation. This means you can hop onto almost any train in Italy. You can read more about it in my Italy Train Guide . Depending on the length of your trip, how often you’ll be riding trains, which trains you’ll be taking, and how many countries you’re planning to visit in Europe , it can be a great deal…

But it can also be a waste of money . For these itineraries, I don’t recommend buying one. I’ve done the math on each of these itineraries and I don’t think it’s worth it. If you are straying from any of these Italy itineraries, you really need to do the math and decide if it’s right for you. This Italy Train Guide lays all of the information out for you.

There are some areas in Italy that I think it’s definitely worth renting a car! In the northern lakes, dolomites, Sardinia, and Tuscany are all great places to drive in Italy. That can be a little terrifying in some areas. Be sure to read this guide to driving in Italy.  I always tell people that once you drive in Italy you can drive anywhere!

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

How much does a trip to Italy cost you ask? Your trip to Italy cost will be very different than the next person. You’ll need to budget for your 10 days in Italy. Your budget will depend a lot on where you choose to go. Large cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence will be more expensive than staying in the countryside.

Italy uses the Euro like a lot of Europe. The exchange rate is usually around .90 Euros to 1 USD. Food costs around the same as in the US, fuel is a lot more expensive, and accommodation will vary widely.

I would plan on spending around €100-300/night for accommodations depending on your group size and level of luxury. If you’re a small group, VRBOs and house rentals can be very cheap! If you’re traveling Italy on a budget, I highly recommend using VRBOs over hotels.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’ll want to follow my basic advice, especially if its your first trip to Italy!

  • Learn a few basic words in Italian (grazie, ciao, preggo)
  • Be sure to validate your train tickets (avoid getting a €300 fine and read this! )
  • Try the local food and venture away from the main tourist sites to get it
  • Be sure to pack an Italy-specific power adapter (they have 2 types of plugs). I use THIS ONE for Italy specific plugs.   And THIS ONE for European plugs also found in Italy. 
  • Beware of pickpockets ( you can learn about what happened to me here )
  • Beware of a Coperto charge. This is a charge to sit and eat.
  • Read my Tips for Visiting Europe

Where to go in Italy you ask? When planning your trip to Italy, think about what is most important to you. The country is so large, it can be overwhelming. After visiting Italy 5 separate times, I have found it best to focus on one region of the country at a time if possible. I know that it’s so hard to visit Italy and not want to see it all, but you won’t want to spend your entire trip on a train, or in a car, or on a plane.

See this list of the best places to see in Italy

While it’s tough to say just which are the best places to visit in Italy, because, let’s be honest, all of Italy is so dang amazing, I do have some personal favorite Italy vacations. When I help friends plan their trip to Italy, I like to give them a little taste of everything: city, history, nature, beach, culture, and food!

I love getting off the beaten path, but there are just some places that are a must see in Italy! There are literally hundreds of choices you can make for your first Italy itinerary, and they would all be amazing. Every person or group has different preferences and interests. That’s why I have created five different 10 day Italy itinerary ideas for you.

You’ll have tons of amazing things to do in Italy, and what you choose to do will largely depend on where you go and what time of year you go, but here are some of the top things to do in Italy:

  • Take a cooking class
  • Eat gelato at least twice a day
  • Go to the beach
  • Visit ancient ruins
  • Ride on a Vespa

Download my FREE Italy Bucket List by clicking here.

Packing for Italy can be tricky depending on the time of year you’re visiting. Our family backpacked around Europe , spending an entire month in Italy. You can see our Italy Packing List here. No matter what time of year you go, be sure to pack a good pair of walking shoes. I love these sandals for warmer months and these boots for colder months.

The Best Way to See Italy in 10 Days 5 Italy Itinerary Ideas

I’ve compiled 5 itineraries for your 10 day trip to Italy. Any of these will be a great choice, it just depends on your personal preferences and what you really want to prioritize during your time in Italy. I’ve made some really classic itineraries and some more off the beaten path itineraries! Each Italy trip itinerary has been tried and tested by myself and I can highly recommend any of them. These are my top 5 Italy vacation ideas.

When to go: Shoulder Season (April-May or September-October)

This is one of the best Italy vacations for really energetic and active travelers. This itinerary is great for those visiting Italy for the first time, who think they may never have the opportunity to return again. Not everyone travels all the time, which is totally understandable. Some can’t afford to travel often, and some don’t really want to. If you think you’ll only be in Italy once in your life, this is the itinerary for you. It’s definitely an aggressive itinerary that requires you to move through the country nearly every day and spend about one day in each city, but it can be done!

I’ve done this Italy itinerary several times with friends and with my kids. It’s exhausting, but doable, and you’ll so SO much!

If you want to make your life easier, you can purchase this full itinerary , which includes interactive maps, an hour by hour guide, walking you through each moment of your trip. This full itinerary provides you with specific tours and classes, and exact train schedules, as well as recommended accommodations. My interactive 40 page PDF contains everything you need to pull off this amazing itinerary! 

Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, & Venice

Day 1: rome, day 2: rome, day 5: florence & pisa, day 9: venice, day 10: venice.

Most affordable flights to Italy will take you to Rome. It’s where I’ve flown into every time I’ve visited Italy. But shop around and find the best deal because you can begin this Italy itinerary at any point.

You can start your Italy itinerary anywhere you wish, but I always recommend starting in Rome . Rome is the third most visited city in Europe, after Paris and London, with 7-10 million visitors per year, and for good reason.

Rome is full of art, history, culture, and amazing food. It is incredible to wander down a street and suddenly come upon an ancient structure or statue! Ancient history is everywhere in this large city.

When you first arrive in Rome, jetlag will probably get the best of you. Give yourself a day to recover and take in all the beauty (and gelato ) that this ancient city has to offer. You’re going to get here and never want to leave.

There is so much to see and do in Rome, it could literally take you a lifetime. Don’t be discouraged by not being able to do it all. There is still so much that you can see just in a day and a half! Be sure to read my guide to Rome in One Day before you go.

Things you shouldn’t miss in Rome:

  • Wake up early to beat the crowds
  • Vespa Tour of Rome ( more info here Seriously one of the best things to do in Italy)
  • Tour the Colosseum BOOK HERE
  • See St. Peter’s Basilica BOOK HERE
  • Wander Trastevere

Read More: What to do in Rome for a Day

You can easily get from Rome to the Amalfi coast by taking the train from Rome to Naples . From there, I recommend either taking the bus system along the coast, hiring a driver, or renting a car. Or even better, a Vespa! Parking is crazy along the Amalfi Coast . There are parking garages, but they fill up fast and cost a lot, so just be prepared and bring cash.

Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Cost: $24- Adults $12- Children

The Amalfi Coast is a gorgeous stretch of coastline that you could honestly spend weeks in, lazing away on the picturesque beaches and soaking up the sun. But if you’re on a mission to see it all, take an entire day to relax and enjoy the sites. There are many small towns dotting the winding coastline. I recommend picking one and spending a few hours at the beach.

I personally love the beach at Atrani because you don’t have to walk down a thousand stairs like Positano, but you still get that beautiful and classic look of Amalfi! You can rent 2 beach chairs and an umbrella on the beach for €20 cash.

Here are the things you cannot miss on the Amalfi Coast

  • Spend at least one day on the beach
  • Drive along the coast
  • Take a day trip to Capri BOOK HERE
  • Discover more things to do on the Amalfi Coast here

After you’ve had a relaxing day on the Amalfi Coast, it’s time to head to another classic city in Italy: Florence! Hop back on the bus or rental car or taxi to Naples , then take the train to Florence .

Time: 2.5 hours Cost: $44- Adults $22- Children

Florence is a beautiful city that is home to much of Italy’s Renaissance art. Home to Michaelangelo, da Vinci, Brunelleschi, Buonarroti, and Botticelli just to name a few, Florence is overflowing with ancient art and architecture! Spend a day and a half exploring museums , walking along the Ponte Vecchio , and eating gelato in this renowned city of culture. Tours and tickets MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE ! Especially if you are going during the busy season.

Here are things you should not miss in Florence:

  • See Michaelangelo’s David BOOK HERE
  • Walk up the Duomo BOOK HERE
  • Visit the Uffizi Gallery BOOK HERE
  • Visit the Boboli Gardens

For the last half of your second day in Florence, I recommend a quick trip to Pisa on your way to Cinque Terre .

Time: 1 hour Cost: $11- Adults $5- Children

Head to Pisa to see the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa ! Yes, it’s touristy, but worth seeing, especially if this will be your only time in Italy. Going up to the top is really awesome. Kids must be 6 or older and you can book your tickets here.

After you’ve spent a few hours in Pisa, it’s time to head back on the train to Cinque Terre. Which town you train to will depend on which of the 5 towns you stay in. But if you don’t know that yet, you can book tickets to La Spezia and pick up a regional train to any of the towns Cinque Terre towns last minute.

Time: 1 hour Cost: $12- Adults $6- Children

Cinque Terre is one of my very favorite places in Italy ! It was one of my  best trips to Italy and i t’s what I picture parts of Italy must have looked 100 years ago! Cinque Terre, translated, means Five Lands , and is the area consisting of five villages:  Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore . They are all equally stunning, and whichever one you choose will be amazing. They all have their own special charm, and they also all have their own pros and cons. Read my complete guide to Cinque Terre to help you decide which town to stay in.

The beautiful towns built on cliffs are honestly one of the best things to see in Italy. Be sure to spend some time in the ocean during your time in Cinque Terre. Monterosso has a beautiful white sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas. I recommend that you spend at least two nights in Cinque Terre so that you have a full day and a half to explore all the towns. There is a train that goes between each town so that the area is very easy to navigate.

Here are things you should not miss in Cinque Terre:

  • Visit all of the five towns by train
  • Take the ferry at least once so you can see Cinque Terre from the water
  • Eat gelato in every town

Once you’ve done some relaxing in Cinque Terre, hop on the train to Milan.

Time: 3.5 hours Cost: $26- Adults $13- Children

Stop into Milan for a quick trip to see the Duomo Cathedral and the Last Supper , which must be booked in advance ! Now you’re on your way to  Lake Como!

You have two great options for exploring Lake Como. You can either take the train and ferry around Lake Como, or you can rent a car. If you want to see more of the remote parts of Lake Como in the north, or just drive around the lake, I suggest you rent a car. But taking a train is simple and affordable. It’s just a matter of preference. I suggest that you take the train to Varenna where you can catch a ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio, Lake Como’s major towns.

Time: 40 minutes Cost: $8- Adults $4- Children

Welcome to one of my favorite places on earth. With gorgeous lakeside villas and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Italy. I recommend you spend your time boating around the lake and checking out all the magnificent houses, wandering the streets of Bellagio, and renting a scooter to explore.

Things you shouldn’t miss in Lake Como:

  • Rent a boat
  • Visit George Clooney
  • Villa del Balbianello (from Star Wars)

It’s time for your last train ride in Italy! Take the train from Varenna to Venice (be sure to book San Lucia and not Mestre). This will take you to the heart of Venice. From there you can take a water taxi or water bus to anywhere in the city.

Time: 4 hours Cost: $36- Adults $18- Children

You’ll be spending the last two days of your Italy trip in the lovely Venice. There’s no place on earth like it! Spend your last moments in Italy floating down the canals, getting lost in the winding alleyways, and eating gelato ! Read all about what to do in Venice before going.

Things not to miss in Venice:

  • Gondola ride BOOK HERE
  • Boat Ride to Colorful Burano BOOK HERE
  • Murano Glass tour BOOK HERE
  • Doge’s Palace & Bridge of Sighs BOOK HERE
  • Book a Photoshoot in Venice: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.

If this itinerary feels right for your 10 days in Italy, you can get the complete itinerary here. Let me do all the work for you! 

This is the best Italy itinerary for someone who wants a really classic experience . It covers the most important sites and major cities in Italy that most visitors will want to see on their first trip to Italy. This Italy itinerary allows you to spend a few days in each location, so you can get to know each city a little better. You can do this itinerary in any order, but most people choose to start in Rome.

Rome, Florence, & Venice

Day 1-3: rome.

You’ll begin your classic tour of Italy in the capital of Italy. There is so much to see in Rome, you’ll be glad you have three days to see it!

Here are some ideas for your 3 days in Rome:

  • I recommend getting up early in the mornings to see sites like the Pantheon and Spanish Steps before the rest of the tourists wake up. The city is so beautiful in the morning light.
  • Your first day in Rome is a great day to take a guided tour of the city so that you can get a lay of the land and check the main sites off. I recommend taking a Vespa Tour! It’s so much fun and even kids can go. Knowledgable tour guides drive you around the entire city, stopping to show you classic and little-known sites. They even stop for gelato. Read here for more Vespa Tour information.
  • Eat dinner in Trastevere , where you’ll find many tiny little restaurants all serving delicious and authentic Italian cuisine.
  • Try several gelato shops each day to find your favorite. Read this to find out the best gelato shops in Italy. My personal favorite is Gelato del Teatro!
  • Take a cooking class . Rome is home to some of the best food in the world. Don’t skip out on learning how to make it yourself. This cooking class is amazing and I love this food tour.
  • If you’re visiting Rome with Kids, there is so much to do! My kids love Rome, and not just for the gelato. Read my guide to Rome with kids.
  • Book a Photoshoot in Rome: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.

You can take a direct train from Rome to Florence in under an hour and a half. It’s an easy train ride from city center to city center.

Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Cost: $22- Adults $11- Children

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a must for your classic trip to Italy. You’ll have the opportunity to see celebrated artwork and architecture.

Some ideas for how to spend your next few days in Florence:

  • Walk the Ponte Vecchio: This ancient bridge has been around forever and is one of the most iconic sites in Florence.
  • Take a Food Tour of Florence: BOOK HERE
  • Take pictures in the iconic Florence photobooth
  • Book a Photoshoot in Florence: BOOK HERE (use code WANDERLUST) for a discount.
  • Walk up the Duomo . You’ll need to get tickets for this, but this massive, iconic building is just gorgeous.
  • Tour the many museums of Florence. Don’t miss Michaelangelo’s David.

You can easily get from Florence to Venice by train. Be sure to buy tickets to Venice Santa Lucia and NOT Mestre ! Santa Lucia will take you directly to the archipelago of Venice while Mestre takes you to the industrial part of Venice.

Time: 2 hours Cost: $37- Adults $17- Children

Spend the last few days of your classic Italy itinerary in Venice. It’s one of the best cities in Italy and unlike anywhere else in the world. If you play it right, Venice can be a relaxing way to end your trip. I seriously recommend waking up with the sun and exploring Venice in the early hours while it’s quiet and not overcrowded. It is truly beautiful. When it starts to get too busy or hot, go back to the hotel and take a nap! Then go back out around dinner time and explore until dark. I’ve done this during several trips to Venice and it was perfect!

Be sure to take advantage of the Vaporetto (public water transportation) and visit the islands of Murano and Burano!

Here are some ideas of things to do during your time in Venice:

  • Take a Mask Making Class BOOK HERE
  • Take a Murano Glass Tour BOOK HERE
  • Visit Burano BOOK HERE
  • Take a Gondola Ride BOOK HERE
  • Go on a Food Tour BOOK HERE

When to go: Summer

This Lakes of Northern Italy itinerary is one of my favorites, and not something that most people try. This is best Italy itinerary if you’re intereseted in exploring the beautiful lakes of Northern Italy. It’s some of the most gorgeous scenery you’ll ever see in your life.

I love this itinerary for a family trip to Italy. I do recommend that if you choose this itinerary, you book a trip for late spring or early fall as the lakes do get crowded during the summer, and are very cold during the winter months.

Each lake has something unique to offer and it’s worth visiting all of them, but if this itinerary seems a little intense for your 10 days in Italy, I recommend cutting out one or two lakes and just sticking with two or three areas. The great thing about this itinerary is that you’ll also be able to see Milan, so you’ll get a taste of a large Italian city while also enjoying the countryside and beach time.

For this Northern Italy itinerary, I highly recommend flying into Milan and renting a car. The lakes and northern scenery can be best seen while taking leisurely winding drives around the lakes.

Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Como, & Lake Maggiore

On your first day of this 10 day Italy itienrary, you will fly into Milan. Here you can spend an entire day or half day exploring the city. Be sure not to miss the imposing Duomo of Milan and The Last Supper if you are interested in art history.

Known for its crystal clear waters, Lake Garda is a beautiful destination for relaxation and fun. Be sure to visit the stunning Scaligero Castle for magnificent views. You can also visit Gardaland , a great family amusement park!

Lake Iseo, known as Lago d’Iseo is a little-known lake between Garda and Como that is a hidden gem in Italy. You can spend your time here hiking, ferrying across the lake, or visiting Grumello Castle.

Lake Como is one of the best places in Italy and one of my favorite places on earth. Yes, it’s popular, but its worth spending at least a few days here. We spent several months and never got sick of it! Rent a boat and cruise the lake yourself and visit the famous town of Bellagio. You can read all about what to do in Lake Como here. 

Laggo Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy and claims both Italy and Switzerland as it crosses the borders. It is located just south of the Swiss Alps which means there are beautiful mountains surrounding the lake all with incredible views. As such a large lake, you have many options for where to stay. There are beautiful lush gardens and old villas dotting the lake. you really can’t go wrong!

Head back to Milan after your wonderful 10 days on the lakes of Italy.

Sardinia and Sicily are the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea and are both worth visiting. You can easily ferry between the two islands via an overnight ferry, which can be really fun. Both islands offer a unique taste of Italy that is something a little different from the mainland boot!

Sardinia & Sicily

Spend 5 days on this beautiful Italian island that is the second largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s one of my favorite places to go in Italy to enjoy the beach! With over 1,200 miles of gorgeous coastline, sandy beaches, Star Wars-esque rocky beaches, beautiful mountains, and centuries of history, it’s an easy choice for anyone looking for a tropical Italian holiday. Italy beaches are known as some of the best in the world, and, in my opinion, most of them are on Sardinia!

Sardinia is known as a “Blue Zone” which means that people who live here live longer than anyone on Earth. The people there are so friendly, the food is amazing, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking!

You can fly to Sardinia, or you can take the ferry from Livorno to Olbia, or take the ferry from Sicily to Cagliari. Depending on which side of the island you decide to spend most of your time on (remember, it’s huge) either one of these could work for you.

Time: Livorno to Olbia: 8 Hours Trapani to Cagliari: 11 hours Cost: Around $70/person with a car (extra for private room for overnight ferry)

Mountains, history, food, beaches…Sicily really does have it all! It’s one of the best places to vacation in Italy for sun lovers. Located in the soccer ball of Italy, just off the toe of the infamous boot, Sicily is the largest Meddeteranian island and worth spending a few days on. Sicily boasts some of the best beaches in Italy and evenin the world, like Cefalu, San Vito Lo Capo, Isola Bella, but also offers a rich history and culture as well as a delicious tradition of cullinary delights. Spend time on the beach, hiking, visiting ancient ruins , and tasting classic Sicilian food . It’s a great place to take a cooking class (BOOK HERE) .

Sicily is a great place to have a car so that you can really see the island. Read this guide to an Italy   road trip in Sicily .

You can fly to Sicily or take the ferry over. Flying into Naples and driving 4.5 hours down the coast can be beautiful and gives you the option of stopping in the Amalfi coast if you have time.

Time: Naples to Sicily: 5 Hours Cost: $40/person (ferry)

Exploring Tuscany is one of the most classic Italian experiences you can have. What I love about visiting Tuscany, especially as a family, is that it is laid back and you can usually rent a nice villa with a pool for a good price on VRBO, while being surrounded by enchanting scenery. I’ve created a list here of beautiful villas in Tuscany at affordable prices (ps. most of them have pools)!

For this Tuscany Itinerary, I highly recommend picking a home base in one place and taking day trips from there. Everywhere on this list is an easy drive or train ride from anywhere in Tuscany. Maybe take a day trip every other day from your home base. This is perfect if you want to do an Italy road trip through Tuscany.

If you’d rather base yourself in Florence and take a day trip to San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti, this is a great tour that hits all those locations.

Florence, Siena, Chianti, San Gimignano, &

Visit Florence for a day trip. Enjoy the ancient feel the the city, walk the Ponte Vecchio, visit famous museums and see incredible artwork!

Spend time enjoying your Tuscan Villa. Look for cooking classes near you and try local food.

10 Days in Italy Itinerary

Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Lucca, stopping in Pisa on your way there. Climb up the leaning tower of Pisa (you must book in advance) .

Spend the majority of your time in Lucca, an amazing walled city, largely free from traffic and filled with beautiful architecture. I think it’s one of the best cities to visit in Italy. Rent a bike and ride around the ancient walls of the city. You can even take a self-guided bike tour of the city.   Be sure to grab a few gelatos during your time in Lucca as these were some of my favorite gelato shops in Italy.

Take a day to explore your own little Tuscan town. Sometimes the local hidden gems can be your favorite part of your trip to Italy! You never know what you’ll find. As the locals what they recommend doing nearby.

With lush vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop towns, Chianti is a beautiful region of Tuscany. This is a great area to take a scenic drive or rent bikes to enjoy more views. If you’d like some help seeing Chianti, you can actually book a half day tour that will take you to all the best spots.

San Gimignano is a beautiful and well-kept walled city in Tuscany. This medival city still has its original house towers.

This beautiful medival town will steal your heart the moment you enter its walls. Be prepared to climb some steep hills in Siena. Grab a pizza and hang out on the Piazza del Campo, the fan shaped public square where everyone comes to enjoy the city.

Spend one last day in Florence seeing the sites before heading home.

Whichever itinerary you choose for your trip to Italy will be wonderful. You really can’t go wrong by choosing any of these. I love helping my readers plan their travel, so if you need any help please reach out to me on Facebook or Instagram . You can learn more information about traveling to Italy on my Italy Website, I Heart Italy . If you want some great tips on traveling Italy, join my Italy Travel Group on Facebook for more helpful tips!

10 Days in Italy

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

10 day trip italy cost

Wanderlust Crew

26 thoughts on “ how to spend 10 days in italy: 5 italy itinerary ideas for 2024 ”.

' src=

Thanks for your detailed descriptions of each place. I am so tempted to visit all of them but I will be on a cruise this time. If you only have one day to visit between Pisa, Florence, and Cinque Terre, which one(s) would you recommend? We are a group of multi-generation travellers (incl 1 72 yo and 1 4 yo kid). Thanks.

' src=

Hi Angie! A cruise sounds so incredible!! You’re going to love Italy. Hands down I would choose Cinque Terre! All 5 towns are so incredible and they are easily accessible by the trains. Not sure of the stamina of the 72 year old and the 4 year old, but I would avoid Corniglia just because there are a million stairs! There IS a bus that will take you from the train station to the top of the town though, but it was very crowded and unreliable. Riomaggiore and Vernazza were my favorites though. You’re going to love it! Let me know where you end up going! Have the best time!! xo Vanessa

' src=

Just purchased your 10 day itinerary and love it! Hubby and I are planning for Sept/Oct 2020 for 2 weeks. We are thinking about using 5-6 of those days to visit Sardina while we are there. Any suggestions for trimming a few days off the 10 day itinerary and suggestions for Sardinia. Or, is it too much to add Sardinia in 2 weeks? Thanks! Erin

Hi Erin, I’d cut out Lake Como and Venice and head to Sardinia instead. We spent a month in Sardinia last year and loved it. It’s super low key and not very touristy! Feel free to email me if you’d like help with a customized itinerary. xo Vanessa

' src=

Hi there. We are a family of three (1 son age 13yo) traveling to Italy in mid/end of May 2020. We definitely want to see Rome and then I am torn between going north(Florence/NW(Cinque Terre)/really North Dolomites/Alps)or South towards Sorrento and Amalfi coast. We have 10 days flying out of NYC. We are first time visitors to Italy and don’t want a jam packed schedule. Can you point me in the right direction? Love all your info! TY!

Hey Diane! That sounds like an amazing trip. I agree, especially with teens you don’t want to pack too much in. How long are you in Italy for? I would recommend flying into Rome, spending 2-3 days there, then catching the train to Cinque Terre. Then spend a day in Florence and see the famous artwork. With teens I like to break up the history/culture with some beach time! You can read more about Cinque Terre here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/things-to-do-in-cinque-terre/ May is a great time to go. Great weather, but not too crazy busy! Let me know if you need more help planning! xo Vanessa

We are there for 10 days. I decided Rome/Florence for day/Cinque Terre/Lake region and home out of Milan. I have read all your i fo and LOVE it. Ty!

That sounds perfect! Definitely spend some time in Lake Como!! It’s one of my favorite places ever! Good luck and holler if you need help! Enjoy!

' src=

What do you do with the bags, when you do the half day tour to Pisa enroute to Cinque Terre. Is there storage facility at the train station?

Hey Danny! Great question! There are storage lockers in the Pisa Train station. You can find that here: https://www.stowyourbags.com/en/shop/pisa/luggage-storage-pisa-centrale-station/

' src=

Hi there. We are couple planning our vacation to Italy, we will be there for 12 days. We are flying into Rome so we will spend some time there, we also plan on going down to the Amalfi coast. We would like to add another spot or two to visit during our trip, we’ve both been to Florence, so we were thinking about maybe doing an Airbnb in Tuscany, or perhaps going somewhere south since we’ll be in Amalfi. We are not really sure what to do. Any suggestions/or recommendations would be appreciated. Thank you!

Hi Charles. Have you thought of visiting Puglia or hopping a flight to Sardinia or Sicily for something a little different? Renting a house in Tuscany would also be lovely. You honestly can’t go wrong!

' src=

Great post with lots of helpful information in Italy travel. Italy is my favorite country, I just can’t get enough of it!

Thanks Whitney. Italy has everything! Love it!

' src=

Hi – We are family of 4 which includes boys age of 5 and 10. We are visiting Italy for 11 days in March 9-20. I am more concern about the weather than anything else. What cities should I cover?

Hi Rohan, Italy will be great! The weather will vary greatly in March depending on what area you’re going to. If you want warmer, definitely stay south. If you need any help planning feel free to email me at [email protected] xo Vanessa

' src=

This guide is amazing! My boyfriend and I will be in Italy for 12 days at the end of December and beginning of January. It will be our first time and we are having a hard time because we want to see everything. Any recommendations for this time of the year? We heard that the Amalfi Coast shuts down during the winter. Should we save that for another trip? Thanks!

Hey Katie. So exciting about Italy! You guys will love it! Amalfi does sort of shut down, but it’s also great to see it without hordes of tourists. Cinque Terre is also another amazing place. Are you doing Venice? It’s beautiful at Christmas time.

' src=

This is the first truly helpful piece of content I’ve read trying to plan my honeymoon in Italy and not knowing where to start. Super grateful that I came across this!

' src=

This is a fantastic guide! Thank you! My husband and I are planning for one week in May – 9-10 days max. So wondering if I do your “see-it-all” itinerary but take out Lake Como and Milan. That’ll give me time to do a day trip to Capri right? How would you break up the 10 days for Rome, Amalfi (Positano & Capri), Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre and Venice?

Yes you could definitely cut out anything. I think 2 days in each location is sufficient. 1 day for Capri.

' src=

We plan on visiting Italy in the fall and hitting Rome-Amalfi-Naples(Pompeii and Mt.Vesuv)-Florence-Venice. We planned to fly in to Rome, but we’re just wondering if you typically book a flight out from Milan or another city at the end of these itineraries or just take a train back down to Rome for the last day so you can book round trip? We were also interested in maybe spending a day relaxing at a winery and visiting a hot spring. Would Florence be a good spot for that? Thanks!

Tuscany is a great place to relax at a winery. If it’s cheaper to fly round trip out of Rome, I would just take the train from Milan to Rome. The trains are really affordable in Italy. Here is some more train info that might be helpful: https://iheartitaly.co/train-italy/

Pingback: To najlepšie z Talianska, čo môžete vidieť | MoodBooster

Pingback: The Best Places to Visit in Italy | I Heart Italy

Pingback: How to Find the Best Gelato in Italy! | I Heart Italy

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

IMAGES

  1. How Much Does A 10 Day Trip To Italy Cost? [Budget Included]

    10 day trip italy cost

  2. What Does a Trip to Italy Cost? Breakdown by Budget!

    10 day trip italy cost

  3. How Much Does A 10 Day Trip To Italy Cost? [Budget Included] Day Trip, Italy Travel, Leaning

    10 day trip italy cost

  4. 10 days in Italy, 3 itineraries for first time visitors

    10 day trip italy cost

  5. Italy Budget Travel Guide: Make The Most of Your Italy Trip!

    10 day trip italy cost

  6. Pin on Travel

    10 day trip italy cost

COMMENTS

  1. How Much Does A 10 Day Trip To Italy Cost? - Musings of a Rover

    So here it is, the cost for a 10 day trip to Italy for two people: $3,653.82. So read on for the full breakdown to see exactly where all that money went.

  2. How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost? 2024 Budget Worksheet

    Get a detailed 10-day Italy Itinerary with 40 pages of day-by-day schedules, instructions, and maps. Italy Budget Assumptions. For this example budget, I have based these expenses on a family of four. This sample family consists of two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11 and lives near a major airport hub in the USA.

  3. How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost in 2024: Detailed Budget ...

    Visiting Italy for the weekend costs around $550 if you fly from Europe and $950 from the US. This budget factors in public transport costs, a budget of $100 for tourist attractions, flights, and mid-range accommodation in a city center location.

  4. 10 Days in Italy Itinerary: 5 Amazing Ideas for Your Trip to ...

    Below is an overview of this itinerary. 10 Days in Italy: Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice. Day 1: Arrive in Rome. Day 2: Rome. Day 3: Florence. Day 4: Florence. Day 5: Tuscany Day Trip. Day 6: Cinque Terre. Day 7: Cinque Terre.

  5. How to Spend 10 Days in Italy: 5 Italy Itinerary Ideas for 2024

    Rome, Amalfi, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Milan, & Venice. Day 1 & Day 2: Rome. Traveling from Rome to Amalfi. Day 3: Amalfi Coast. Traveling from Amalfi to Florence.

  6. The Ultimate 10 Days in Italy Itinerary - practicalwanderlust.com

    27 shares. If treasure chest was a country, Italy is one full of history, culture, fashion and deliciousness. Rome resonates with stories of gladiators and emperors. Venice is full of romantic canals and quirky bridges. Florence buzzes with Renaissance architecture and world-famous art.