10 day itinerary for Italy

Itinerary

Italy is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 10-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and some hands-on experiences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Rome

• Morning: Arrive in Rome! Check into your family-friendly hotel. I recommend a place with spacious rooms and maybe even a pool for the kids to splash around in after a long flight.
• Afternoon: Head to the iconic Colosseum. Book a family-friendly guided tour that includes engaging stories for the kids. They’ll love hearing about gladiators!
• Evening: Stroll through the Roman Forum and then enjoy a classic Italian dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood. Try some pizza or pasta at a local trattoria.

## Day 2: Rome

• Morning: Visit the Vatican City. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is a must-see, but be prepared for some awe-inspiring art!
• Afternoon: Have a picnic in St. Peter’s Square. Grab some sandwiches and gelato from a nearby café.
• Evening: Take a leisurely walk to the Piazza Navona and enjoy the street performers. Grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby.

## Day 3: Rome to Florence

• Morning: Take a high-speed train to Florence (about 1.5 hours). It’s a fun experience for the kids!
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then visit the Florence Cathedral (Duomo). Climb to the top for stunning views of the city (if the kids are up for it!).
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Florentine steak dinner. Don’t forget to try some gelato afterward!

## Day 4: Florence

• Morning: Visit the Uffizi Gallery. Consider a family-friendly tour that includes interactive elements to keep the kids engaged.
• Afternoon: Head to the Ponte Vecchio and let the kids pick out some souvenirs. Then, visit the Boboli Gardens for some outdoor fun.
• Evening: Have dinner in the Oltrarno district, where you can find many family-friendly eateries.

## Day 5: Day Trip to Pisa and Lucca

• Morning: Take a train to Pisa (about 1 hour). Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and let the kids take those classic “holding up the tower” photos!
• Afternoon: Head to Lucca (just a short train ride away). Rent bikes and ride along the city walls. It’s a fun way to explore!
• Evening: Return to Florence for dinner. Try a local pizzeria for a relaxed meal.

## Day 6: Florence to Venice

• Morning: Take a train to Venice (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel and get settled.
• Afternoon: Explore St. Mark’s Square and visit St. Mark’s Basilica. The mosaics are stunning!
• Evening: Enjoy a gondola ride! It’s a magical experience for the whole family. Afterward, have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant along the canals.

## Day 7: Venice

• Morning: Visit the Doge’s Palace. The kids will love the stories of the palace’s history and the secret passages!
• Afternoon: Take a boat to Murano to see glass-blowing demonstrations. Kids often find this fascinating!
• Evening: Return to Venice and enjoy a casual dinner. Try some cicchetti (Venetian tapas) for a fun dining experience.

## Day 8: Venice to Lake Como

• Morning: Take a train to Lake Como (about 3.5 hours). The scenery is breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then take a boat ride on the lake. Visit Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of the Lake.”
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant. The views are stunning, especially at sunset!

## Day 9: Lake Como

• Morning: Spend the day exploring Varenna. Visit the Villa Monastero and its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Let the kids play at the lakeside park or take a swim if the weather permits.
• Evening: Have a relaxed dinner in Varenna. Try some local fish dishes!

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Lake Como.
• Afternoon: Head back to Milan (or your departure city) for your flight home. If time allows, visit the Duomo di Milano before you leave!

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

• Always have snacks and water on hand.
• Consider using public transport; it’s often easier and more fun for kids.
• Look for family-friendly tours that engage children with stories and activities.
• Don’t rush! Allow time for play and exploration.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Italy! Enjoy your trip! 🍕🇮🇹✨