20 day itinerary
Italia
Itinerary
Italy is a treasure trove of history, culture, and delicious food, and with 20 days to explore, you can really dive into its charm without breaking the bank. Here’s a fun and economical itinerary that balances sightseeing, local experiences, and some downtime. Let’s get started!
Day 1-3:
Day 1: Arrival in
- Arrive in and check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse.
- Spend the afternoon wandering around the historic center. Visit the and toss a coin into the .
- Grab a slice of pizza at a local pizzeria for dinner.
Day 2: Ancient
- Start your day early at the (book tickets in advance to save time).
- Explore the and (combined ticket).
- In the evening, stroll through , a charming neighborhood, and enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at a trattoria.
Day 3: Vatican City
- Visit (free entry) and climb to the dome for stunning views.
- Explore the (consider a guided tour for better insights).
- Spend the evening at the market, sampling local street food.
Day 4-5:
Day 4: Travel to
- Take a train to (book in advance for cheaper fares).
- Check into a budget accommodation and then head to the . Climb to the top for breathtaking views.
- Enjoy a gelato while wandering the streets.
Day 5: Art and Culture
- Visit the (book tickets in advance).
- Spend the afternoon at the to see .
- In the evening, walk across the and have dinner at a local osteria.
Day 6-7: and
Day 6: Day Trip to
- Take a morning train to (about an hour).
- Visit the and the (you can take photos from outside to save money).
- Head back to in the evening.
Day 7: Explore
- Take a train to (about 30 minutes).
- Rent a bike and ride along the city walls, then explore the charming streets.
- Return to for the night.
Day 8-10:
Day 8: Travel to
- Take a train to (book in advance).
- Check into a budget hotel or hostel.
- Spend the evening wandering the canals and enjoying a spritz at a local bar.
Day 9: Discover
- Visit (free entry) and the (consider a combined ticket).
- Explore the and grab a cheap lunch.
- In the evening, take a gondola ride (or just enjoy the views from the bridges).
Day 10: and
- Take a vaporetto (water bus) to to see glass-making demonstrations.
- Continue to , famous for its colorful houses and lace-making.
- Return to for dinner.
Day 11-12:
Day 11: Travel to
- Take a train to (about 2 hours).
- Check into your accommodation and explore the historic center.
- Try some local pasta dishes like tagliatelle al ragù for dinner.
Day 12: Culinary Day
- Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Bolognese dishes.
- Spend the afternoon visiting the and the .
- Enjoy a leisurely evening in the vibrant .
Day 13-15:
Day 13: Travel to
- Take a train to La Spezia and then transfer to .
- Check into a budget accommodation in one of the villages ( is a good option).
- Spend the evening relaxing by the sea.
Day 14: Hiking the Villages
- Hike between the villages ( to is a popular route).
- Enjoy a picnic lunch with local focaccia.
- Spend the evening in , soaking in the sunset.
Day 15: Explore More
- Visit the remaining villages (, , and ).
- Try some local seafood for dinner.
Day 16-17: and
Day 16: Travel to
- Take a train to (about 3 hours).
- Check into your accommodation and explore the historic center.
- Try authentic Neapolitan pizza for dinner.
Day 17: Day Trip to
- Take a train to (about 30 minutes).
- Spend the day exploring the ruins (consider a guided tour).
- Return to for the evening.
Day 18-20:
Day 18: Travel to
- Take a bus or ferry to Amalfi (or Positano).
- Check into a budget accommodation.
- Spend the day relaxing on the beach.
Day 19: Explore the Coast
- Take a day trip to (visit ) or hike the .
- Enjoy a leisurely dinner with a view of the coast.
Day 20: Departure
- Spend your last morning soaking in the views and enjoying a final Italian breakfast.
- Head back to for your departure.
Tips for Budget Travel:
- Use trains for intercity travel; they’re often cheaper and more scenic.
- Eat like a local: street food, markets, and small trattorias are your best friends.
- Look for free walking tours in major cities.
- Consider city passes that offer discounts on attractions and public transport.
I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your Italian adventure! Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to savor the gelato! 🍦✨
