Itinerary

Italy is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, and with 21 days, you can explore a delightful mix of cities, parks, and green spaces. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances urban exploration with nature’s beauty!

## Day 1-3: Rome

## Day 1: Arrival in Rome

• Arrive in Rome and check into your hotel.
• Spend the afternoon strolling through the beautiful Villa Borghese, a large park with gardens, fountains, and the Borghese Gallery.
• Enjoy dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 2: Ancient Rome

• Visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum in the morning.
• After lunch, head to the Palatine Hill for stunning views and lush greenery.
• In the evening, take a leisurely walk to the Pincio Terrace for a sunset view over the city.

## Day 3: Vatican City

• Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums (don’t miss the Sistine Chapel!).
• Spend the afternoon in Vatican Gardens (book in advance for a guided tour).
• Enjoy a gelato at a nearby café and relax in Piazza Navona.

## Day 4-5: Florence

## Day 4: Travel to Florence

• Take a morning train to Florence (about 1.5 hours).
• Visit the Boboli Gardens, a stunning example of Italian garden design.
• Explore the Piazza della Signoria and have dinner at a local trattoria.

## Day 5: Art and Culture

• Visit the Uffizi Gallery in the morning.
• Spend the afternoon in Giardino di Boboli, enjoying the sculptures and fountains.
• Climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views of Florence at sunset.

## Day 6-7: Cinque Terre

## Day 6: Travel to Cinque Terre

• Take a train to Cinque Terre (about 2.5 hours).
• Spend the day hiking between the villages, starting with Monterosso al Mare and ending in Vernazza.
• Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner.

## Day 7: Explore the Villages

• Spend the day exploring the remaining villages: Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
• Relax on the beach or take a boat ride along the coast.
• Enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the sea.

## Day 8-10: Venice

## Day 8: Travel to Venice

• Take a train to Venice (about 4 hours).
• Spend the afternoon wandering through the Giardini della Biennale, a beautiful park with art installations.
• Enjoy a gondola ride in the evening.

## Day 9: Discover Venice

• Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
• Spend the afternoon in Parco delle Rimembranze on the island of Giudecca.
• Have dinner at a canal-side restaurant.

## Day 10: Murano and Burano

• Take a day trip to Murano (famous for glass-making) and Burano (known for its colorful houses).
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Burano and explore the local lace shops.
• Return to Venice for a quiet evening.

## Day 11-13: Lake Como

## Day 11: Travel to Lake Como

• Take a train to Como (about 3.5 hours).
• Spend the afternoon exploring Villa Olmo and its gardens.
• Enjoy dinner by the lake.

## Day 12: Bellagio and Varenna

• Take a ferry to Bellagio and explore its charming streets and gardens.
• Visit Villa Melzi and its beautiful gardens.
• In the evening, head to Varenna for a romantic dinner.

## Day 13: Hiking and Relaxation

• Spend the day hiking in the Greenway del Lago di Como, a scenic trail along the lake.
• Relax in the evening at a lakeside café.

## Day 14-16: Bologna and Modena

## Day 14: Travel to Bologna

• Take a train to Bologna (about 2 hours).
• Explore the Giardini Margherita, a lovely park perfect for a picnic.
• Enjoy Bologna’s famous cuisine for dinner.

## Day 15: Culinary Delights

• Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional pasta.
• Spend the afternoon visiting the Bologna Botanical Garden.
• Enjoy a leisurely evening in the city center.

## Day 16: Day Trip to Modena

• Take a short train ride to Modena (about 30 minutes).
• Visit the Parks of Modena, including Parco Ferrari.
• Explore the city’s famous balsamic vinegar shops and enjoy a tasting.

## Day 17-19: Naples and the Amalfi Coast

## Day 17: Travel to Naples

• Take a train to Naples (about 3.5 hours).
• Explore Parco Virgiliano, a beautiful park with stunning views of the Bay of Naples.
• Enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza for dinner.

## Day 18: Pompeii and Sorrento

• Take a day trip to Pompeii to explore the ancient ruins.
• In the afternoon, head to Sorrento and enjoy the coastal views.
• Return to Naples for the night.

## Day 19: Amalfi Coast

• Take a bus or ferry along the Amalfi Coast, stopping in Positano and Amalfi.
• Spend the day exploring the picturesque towns and relaxing on the beach.
• Return to Naples for the night.

## Day 20-21: Return to Rome

## Day 20: Travel back to Rome

• Take a train back to Rome (about 1 hour).
• Spend your last day shopping or revisiting your favorite spots.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner in a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city.

## Day 21: Departure

• Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll through Villa Doria Pamphili, one of Rome’s largest parks.
• Head to the airport for your departure.

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And there you have it! A delightful 21-day itinerary that balances Italy's rich history and culture with its beautiful parks and green spaces. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✈️🍝