10 Day Guide to Italy - Perfect for Your First Visit
If it’s your first time going to Italy and you have absolutely no idea where to start planning…welcome!
I’ll be sharing 3 different itinerary options for first-timers. They all include the must-sees while squeezing in some off-beaten paths. My goal is to try to give you a few different options to have the most versatile first-timers experience in Italy.
My routes are made to follow a somewhat linear path so it’s not all over the map.
This guide covers Lake Como, Milan, Cinque Terre, and Rome
The second guide will cover Rome, Amalfi Coast, and Florence
The third guide will cover Rome, Florence, Venice, and southern cities. The south is where I plan to spend the fall, so I will give much more details then!
Before I get right into it, my guides are dedicated to slower travel. The backpacking and rush traveling of staying 1-2 nights in places are SO FUN but also so stressful - my body can no longer handle that type of damage haha. But being completely honest, I don’t recommend anything less than 2 days anywhere for a real travel experience!
Everyone (including myself) always underestimates the TIME it takes to travel. You lose and waste so much time in logistics that it’s not talked about often when planning your itinerary.
Take the time to think about the places you really want to see and SEE them.
So let’s get right into it!
Lake Como + Milan - 4 Days: 3 days in Como with 1 day dedicated to a day trip to Milan Central.
Firstly, let’s talk about how to get there.
There are a few ways to get to Lake Como, with most of them centering around Milan.
Train:
There are two ways to get from Malpensa Airport to Lake Como by train. The first option is to take the Malpensa Express and get off at Saronno. From there, you can change trains to Como Lago Nord station. The journey takes around 1h 30m.
The second option, which takes the same time, involves catching the Malpensa Express to Milano Porta Garibaldi and continuing the rest of your journey on a regional train to Como San Giovanni station.
From there, you will have to take the ferry, water taxi, private transfer, or bus to your desired location.
Drive:
Depending on which town you pick as a base for your Lake Como itinerary, it will take around 1-1.5 hours to get there from Milan by car. There is plenty of public parking and you will likely have parking or valet at your accommodation.
If you are arriving at MXP Airport, the car rental options are located a level below baggage claim. So after you collect your bags and exit, follow signs for “Car Rental” or find an escalator or elevator and go one level down. From there, you’ll have lots of options to choose from pending your needs and budget.
Bus:
The last option to get to Lake Como is to take a bus. While this may not be the most time-friendly of options because of the potential traffic and stops, this can be a great budget-friendly option, especially if the train tickets are higher due to visiting at peak times. The buses are usually direct and will bring you right to S. Giovanni Bus Station in Como. The average bus ticket cost is around 5 euros.
Check out the timetable for different bus routes in this article here. it includes all bus routes from the eastern and western branches of Como.
We always rent a car and find that to be the most convenient for us - we loved driving around the lake and just going wherever we wanted, whenever we wanted. We could also opt for the ferry at any time. Keep in mind that sometimes taking a ferry or water taxi might be the faster route in some instances….some towns that are just across the shore can take hours to drive to while taking a ferry can be much quicker! So do your research prior to leaving.
Balcony views from Villa d Este - Cernobbio
Day 1: Bellagio & Varenna
Bellagio is one of the most popular destinations in Lake Como and it’s easy to see why! The views here are absolutely incredible and the town is small but so charming.
Since it’s a major tourist hotspot, it’s best to arrive in Bellagio early to avoid the crowds if you are traveling during peak season.
How to get to Bellagio:
You can take the ferry or drive. Depending on where you’re staying in Lake Como, it can take anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours. Of course, if you’re staying in Bellagio you’re in luck, as you can venture out exploring whenever you feel ready.
What to do in Bellagio:
Stroll around the central piazza and narrow alleyways of the shops and cafes
Check out the famous picturesque streets of Salt Serbelloni and Salita Antonio Mella
Walk around the waterfront promenade - the views of the lake and town are amazing
Book a tour at Parco di Villa Serbelloni if you love gardens. Don’t confuse it with Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni - two totally different properties!
Note: the gardens are part of a guided tour between March - November and cost 10 euros/per person. There are two-time availabilities including 11 AM and 3:30 PM.
Visit Villa Melzi Gardens
Check out the Basilica di San Giacomo - a beautiful 12th-century church. Let’s be honest Italian churches are always breathtaking.
Restaurants, Cafes and Bars in Bellagio
Head to Varenna from Bellagio (15-min ferry)
After spending the first half of your day in Bellagio, take the ferry to Varenna. This area is much smaller and quieter than Bellagio but it’s absolutely stunning and one of the most picturesque villages on Lake Como!
What to do in Varenna
The Walk of Lovers (or as the Italian say, Passeggiata degli Innamorati di Varenna) is a beautiful walking path right along the waterfront, located close to the ferry station. As the name suggests, you won’t find a more romantic place in all of Varenna!
Check out the Church of San Giorgio
Visit Marvel Villa Monastero - open daily, from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM during the summer months and from 10 AM to 5 PM during the winter months. It costs 8 euros to enter the botanical gardens but you can also purchase a combination ticket for 10 euros that grants access to both the gardens and the museum.
Walk around the gardens of Villa Cipressi - it’s actually a hotel and an amazing option to stay at in Varenna! The views are absolutely incredible and one of the best places to see in Varenna.
Hike to Castello di Vezio - said to have one of the best views of Lake Como from up above! It’s an easy hike and takes a little over 30 min depending on how fast you are going. Follow marked signs that will lead you to the trail.
Resurants, Cafes and Bars in Varenna
Day 2: Villa del Balbianello, Termezzo & Menaggio
Villa del Balbianello is hands down one of the most beautiful and breathtaking places on Lake Como. It’s located on an exclusive peninsula and featured in multiple movies like Casino Royale and Star Wars.
A visit to Villa del Balbianello is truly an unforgettable experience, here are some things to keep in mind when you go:
Since Villa del Balbianello has a remote location, it’s a bit tricky to get there – it’s only accessible by foot or by a taxi boat. The closest parking lot is a 20-minute walk from the villa and if you’re arriving at Lenno by ferry, you’re looking at a 30-minute walk. This could easily eat up a good chunk of your day depending on where you are coming from.
You can decide whether you want to visit only the gardens or the villa itself as well. Entry to the gardens cost 11 euros and can be visited on a self-guided tour.
It’s only possible to visit the villa as part of a guided tour. The tour lasts for around 45 minutes and costs 22 euros per person which includes access to the gardens as well. The villa is open 10 AM to 6 PM daily (with last admission at 5 PM).
Ferry, Bus or Drive to Tremezzo - 15 Minutes Away
After taking the short ferry or driving over to Tremezzo, there are a few must-sees to check out while you are here.
What to do in Tremezzo:
Take a walk around Villa Carlotta - beautiful gardens with a museum located inside. The details, ceilings, and architecture of this villa are absolutely insane.
Have lunch or drinks at Grand Hotel Tremezzo - honestly will never get over this place! This is also a great luxury option for accommodation. Check out the pictures below!
Other great food options in Termezzo include: La Fagurida, Antica Trattoria del Risorgimento, Restaurant La Cucina della Marianna
After you’ve spent a good amount of time in Tremezzo, the next top on the itinerary is Menaggio.
Ferry, Drive, or Bus to Menaggio: 15-30 Minutes Away
What to do in Menaggio:
Walk around the waterfront promenade and enjoy the views of the lake and town.
Make a stop at Piazza Garibaldi - the central plaza of Menaggio where you’ll find restaurants, hotels, gelato shops, etc.
Visit the church of Santa Marta
Visit Villa La Gaeta - a castle-like villa with incredible architecture
Chill and take in the views during a walk along Viale Benedetto Castelli
Check out the gardens of Villa Vigoni
Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes in Menaggio
Day 3: Relaxing Boat Day with Cernibbio & Como Center at Night
Spend your day touring Lake Como from the water! This is such a fun and relaxing thing to do and see the lake from a different perspective. You can even hop off the boat and swim in some spots, check out the Nesso waterfall, small lesser-known towns, visit Geroge and Amal ;) , and more!
Here are some boat options referred from our local friend there:
After spending a good amount of time touring the lake, it’s time to head back to the Como center and Cernobbio. Here’s what you can visit and do:
Visit the Villa d Este mosaic garden
Il Giardino Della Valle - a free botanical garden along a stream
A walk around Villa Bernasconi
Head to the town center and walk around Piazza San Fedele
Stroll around Duomo di Como - a gothic church
Walk around the old town hall called Broletto
Villa Olmo - a historic villa dating back to the 1780’s
Fine Dining in Lake Como
If you like to wine and dine then you’re in luck because there are plenty of options in Como to choose from. I’ve narrowed down the list below if you are looking for this type of food experience! Be sure to make reservations in advance.
LaAria (in the Mandarin Oriental hotel)
Veranda (located in Villa d Este)
Hotels: From Luxury to Affordable
The list of villas and hotels that sit on Lake Como are endless. It’s all dependent on your budget and the experience you are going for. Below is a list of some of the top places in Como.
Airbnb’s are also a fantastic option - so many beautiful homes nestled on the lake with amazing views!
Airbnb pro tip: filter the results to “Airbnb Superhost” - I found that the apartments with the best views and host experiences come from this filter.
Balcony views at Villa D Este
Day 4: Day Trip To Milan
On your last day in Como, a day trip to Milan is definitely worth taking. You will be spending your entire day in Milan, so here’s everything you can cover in just one day to make the most of your trip.
You will have to take the train, taxi or private transfer to Como town and take the train from Como San Giovanni to Milan Central. Once you’re ready to go home, just find your way back to Milan Central Station to head back to Como from there. Plan accordingly - it’ll be a long but adventurous day!
What to do while in Milan:
Duomo di Milano - no trip to Milan is complete without seeing this cathedral! You can purchase tickets here.
Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele (right next door to the Duomo)
Insider tip: One of the nicest views of the Duomo can be found on the 7th floor of the La Rinascente shopping center. There are so many places to eat and drink here, enjoy it while checking out the views!
La Scala Opera - doesn’t look like much from the outside but the inside is where it’s at! This is one of the most famous theaters in the world and some of the most famous operas and composers have performed here. Only if you are into this I’d recommend visiting, if not just walk around the Piazza Della Scala.
Explore the Brera neighborhood - one of the upscale, artistic centers of Milan. You won’t have a tough time finding anywhere to eat or drink here!
The Last Supper - if seeing this painting in real life is on your bucket list, head to Cenacolo Vinciano to see one of the most famous paintings in the world.
Explore the Porta Nuova District - this area combines modern and historic architecture. If you come here, make sure to check out the Bosco Verticale (green building pictured below). It’s insane!
Navigli - beautiful canals of Milan, especially fun at night! Check out the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. Tons of dining and bar options are here.
Getting Around Milan
Google maps will be your best friend. Trains and walking are your best options here. We opted for walking but the decision is up to you. If you drove to Milan from Como, then you’ll have to park your car right outside the city center to avoid traffic. Make sure to pin-drop your car park location.
Cinque Terre - 3 Days Exploring the 5 Towns and One Day in La Spezia
Everything you need to know about Cinque Terre is outlined in a guide here. The guide covers everything on:
Background and location of Cinque Terre
How to get to Cinque Terre
Differences between each village
Where to stay
How to get around each village
Hiking through the villages
Best restaurants, cafes & bars with views
Click here to check out everything you need to know for Cinque Terre.
Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
Rome - 3 Days
Planning what to do in Rome for 3 days can be challenging, the city is MASSIVE with so much to offer. There are definitely some classic and hidden gems that must be shared.
This 3-day Rome itinerary will cover all the grounds of the must-see spots and have insider tips to help you avoid tourist traps, enjoy Italian cuisine in the most locals-approved eateries, and the best sunset spots. You’ll also find tips on how to save your money and skip the lines for attractions.
Getting into Rome
From wherever you are in Italy, you will have to take the train to Roma Termini or a flight to FCO Airport. If you are taking trains, I highly recommend downloading the Omio app to view train timings and book your tickets directly from there.
Day 1: Knocking Out the Must-See Attractions
Rome is huge so it’s really important to have somewhat of an idea of what you want to do and see while you’re there. I always leave room for wandering and getting lost, but you must leave lots of time to see the attractions it has to offer and what Rome is famous for!
Start Your Day in Piazza Navona
One of the most dreamy squares in Centro Storico (the historic center of the city). The minute you step into this square, you’ll get that Lizzie McGuire feeling…ifykyk.
If you get there very early in the morning, like 8 AM or earlier, you’ll get to enjoy it without many people around. At the center of the piazza is the impressive Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi, it’s so detailed and pretty.
Insider tip: There are many restaurants inside Piazza Navona, and waiters will do anything to lure you in. The majority of the restaurants in this square are a tourist trap, not authentic, and pricey as well. You’ll find plenty of great, authentic restaurants elsewhere in the historic center, so I don’t recommend eating here at all (scroll to the bottom of this guide to find out how to find the best Italian cuisine). Rule of thumb, avoid eating and drinking near ANY major tourist attraction. One time I had a gelato cone…two scoops…for 16 euros. 16 euros!!!!
Visit the Piazza Del Campidoglio
The first modern square was designed in Rome by no other than famous sculptor Michelangelo. There are museums here to check out, but they will easily take up to 1 hour+. If you have the time, check out the Capitol Museum.
Capitoline Museums opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM daily. Closed on Mondays.
Capitoline Museums entrance fees: 15 euros per person
Right next to Piazza del Campidoglio is the Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia - a must see!
Insider tip: Take a walk around to see this monument from different angles but don’t forget to climb up to its panoramic terrace, which can be done via elevators. The view of Rome’s historic center from there is amazing.
Check out the Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most well-preserved ancient structures in Rome, and it’s a staple for any itinerary. Dating back to between 126 – 128 AD, this Roman temple was dedicated to the Gods of Pagan Rome and was eventually converted into a Christian church. Take a look around and enjoy the history.
Head to the Basilica Di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four major basilicas. It’s also known as one of the largest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Unlike most other attractions in central Rome, this basilica usually isn’t very crowded — making it one of the most peaceful stops. The interiors are absolutely breathtaking.
Trevi Fountain
A trip to Rome would be utterly incomplete without a stop at the Trevi Fountain. Completed in 1762, it is the largest fountain in Rome and undoubtedly, one of the most popular attractions in all of Italy. This place is ALWAYS packed so expect nothing less unless you come here before 8 AM. However, it’s still a magical experience and unfortunately, Paulo didn’t swoop me off my feet and turn me into an Italian superstar. But YOU might have a chance. Throw a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand to guarantee a trip back ;)
No matter how hungry you are, avoid eating here as every shop is primarily a tourist trap. Remember this rule anywhere you go in Italy, I’m going to keep saying it over and over.
Trevi Fountain
Head to the Piazza Di Spagna (Spanish Steps)
From the Trevi Fountain, head north on Via del Corso to make your way to the iconic Spanish Steps, also one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. Once you reach the top, check out the beautiful Trinità dei Monti Church.
Villa Borghese & Galleria Borghese
From Piazza Di Spagna, it’s about 20 minutes to reach Villa Borghese - one of the most beautiful parks in Rome. You can even rent a bike here to go around, it’s huge! The main purpose of coming here though is to check out Galleria Borghese. It showcases an impressive collection of art, including masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, Botticelli, and Tiziano. The walls and ceilings…the breathtaking mosaics…just go!
Galleria Borghese is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 7 PM, with the last entrance allowed at 5.45 PM. Be sure to book your entrance slot well in advance and to get there 45 minutes before your entry time because it gets crowded and there WILL be a long line. You can even buy a skip-the-line ticket here.
Sunset at Terrazza Del Pincio
Villa Borghese is right by another must-see attraction, Terrazza del Pincio, a terrace that offers the most spectacular view of Rome at sunset. Visiting this observation deck is an unforgettable experience, especially during sunset. Come here to enjoy the views and it all in after a long day of adventure.
After sunset and dinner, you can easily revisit many of the places you saw during the day. This time seeing them come alive at night! There are fewer people around at night, so the atmosphere is a lot more peaceful too. It’s also a totally different experience.
Day 2: Ancient Rome
After enjoying your espresso and breakfast this morning, it’s time to get ready to check out all of what ancient Rome has to offer.
Colosseum at night
Start the Day at the Colosseum
Exploring the Colosseum on a guided tour is the fastest way to get in and the best way to maximize your time. Given the sheer number of tourists visiting the Colosseum, there will always be a long line at the entrance, even if you book your tickets online. To book a guided tour, you can click here. This will take you a few hours, depending on how into it you are!
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
After spending some time at the Colosseum, head to the Roman Forum. A ticket to the Colosseum includes same-day entry here. Walking around the area today, you’ll see ruins of what used to be the oldest and most important monuments of Ancient Rome, including temples and shrines.
If you are a fan of myths and legends, head to the Bocca Della Verta, also known as the mouth of truth.
Head to the Neighborhood of Trastevere & Basilica Di Santa Maria
Walk around the Basilica di Santa Maria which dates back all the way to the 3rd century. I loved sitting and people watching here! So many cute cafes and shops as well.
Close by is Trastevere. An area known as the foodie neighborhood, home to some of the best Roman cuisine! There are so many to choose from but some options include:
Sunset at Gianicolo (Janiculum Hill)
15 minutes walking distance from the Basilica lies Gianicolo. This area is lesser-known to tourists and offers 360 views of the city. It’s so romantic and breathtaking, definitely worth visiting while winding down from your day. Go during the evening to watch the sunset!
Day 3: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
The last day will mostly be spent exploring Vatican City and all it has to offer. I would start early so you can leave some hours of the day to just get lost and explore Rome for the remaining time you have left!
To maximize your time today, I highly recommend starting your visit to Vatican City with the Vatican Museums. You can explore St. Peter’s Basilica afterward. This is to avoid the long lines you’ll encounter at the museums if you go later in the morning.
Vatican Museum
Tips for visiting the Vatican:
Book your ticket online in advance to avoid the incredibly long lines at the ticket office or buy a skip-the-line ticket (highly recommend this option).
During the peak season of May to mid-September, arrive at least 30 minutes before opening time to avoid the long lines (unless you have a skip-the-line ticket).
Avoid visiting on Mondays or over the weekend, that’s when the museums are the most crowded.
Dress appropriately.
The museum is free every last Sunday of each month, but be sure to arrive early in the morning.
Visit St Peter’s Basilica & Cupola
After spending lots of time taking in the beauty of the Vatican Museums, its time to head to St. Peters Basilica. If you visit the Vatican with a guided tour, you can get from the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter’s Basilica in a few minutes using a restricted passageway. If you visit individually, you’ll have to walk for 20 minutes to St. Peter’s Basilica and then stand in a long line to enter. Don’t you dare leave St Peter’s Basilica without climbing to the top of its dome! A sight you won’t want to miss accessed from either taking the elevator or steps.
Casta Sant’Angelo
Once you’re done with the St. Peter’s Basilica, walk down the famous Via della Conciliazione to Castel Sant’Angelo. You can pay for a ticket to enter the castle or just enjoy the views from the outside. From there, head to Ponte Umberto, a bridge with views of St. Peter’s.
Campo De’ Fiori
Make your way to Campo de’ Fiori. A farmer’s market by day and a lively town by night. So many restaurant options and bars to choose from.
Sit down at one of the outdoor bars and enjoy yourself an aperitivo after a long day, you deserve it.
Prosciutteria Roma Cantina dei Papi
Recommended Entry Passes for Rome
To save time and money while traveling in Rome for 3 days, I highly recommend purchasing a tourist pass in advance. This is the one I recommend that includes everything you’ll want to see while you’re in Rome for 3 days.
How to find Good Food in Rome (and anywhere in Italy)
There are a few key guidelines to keep in mind when searching for food in Italy.
You want to find restaurants that are closed between 2-7 or at least are closed for a few hours of the day. Italians eat from 12-2 latest and dinner starts at 8 or 9. So the restaurants that stay open all day…are there for the tourists!
If a menu is in English with pictures, this is NOT it. Look for places with a menu only in Italian and pull out Google translate sis, it’s worth it.
Look for places that include a "menu fisso". This is a fixed menu that’s prepared specifically for the Italian cliental. like true home-cooked meals and it’ll be one of the best experiences you’ve ever had.
Always, always, ALWAYS move away from the attractions to find good restaurants.
Gelato pro tip: if you’re passing by a shop and see that the gelato is exposed, super fluffy, and vibrant in color, this is not it. Real gelato has to be stored at such a precise temperature that it cannot be exposed, remember this! So if you see a gelato shop with aluminum containers covering the ice cream, you’ve found yourself a good one.
There are so many amazing food options in Rome that I honestly wouldn’t know where to start. t’s truly some of the best in the world for good reason. But because there are so many options to choose from, I will give you my personal favorites recommended by locals and you can use what you learned above to find the rest of your food spots!
Bonci - BEST PIZZA EVER. Rome is famous for Pizza Al Talgio - you tell them how much you want and they typically cut it with scissors and you pay by weight. Expect a long line but it’s totally worth it.
Osteria Da Fortunata - fresh pasta made in front of you that you’ve likely seen all over TikTok
Gelateria Come vil Latte - look how covered that gelato is ;)
Prosciutteria Roma Catina Dei Papi - on the outskirts of the Trevi Fountain
If you are interested, you can even book a guided food tour! Do your research online to see one that fits your vibe, the options are endless!
Where to Stay in Rome
There are plenty of options of where to stay in Rome so you will have to do some research on which area you want to base in. There are also tons of Airbnb options. Filter your results to “Airbnb Superhosts” and you won’t be disappointed!
However, here’s a list of the best neighborhoods:
Centro Storico
Spagna
Monti
Prati
Trastevere
Esquilino
Click here to check out the top-rated hotels in Rome. You can view prices and booking options directly from Google.
The End
There you have it - everything you need to know for your first time visiting Lake Como, Milan, Cinque Terre, and Rome!
If there’s anything that wasn’t covered in this guide you need answers on, please feel free to get in touch on Instagram.
As always, travel mindfully and wherever you go, go with all your heart. Italy is one of the most magical places in the entire world, enjoy every minute and take it all in. Don’t rush your days even if you can’t get to everything on your list. I guarantee no matter what, you are going to have the most amazing time here!