12 day itinerary for Italy

Itinerary

Italy is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine, and with 12 days to explore, you can definitely enjoy some beautiful beach time along with cultural experiences. Here’s a fun and relaxed itinerary that balances beach days with sightseeing. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Rome

• Morning: Arrive in Rome. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the historic center. Visit the iconic Piazza Navona and grab a gelato.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 2: Rome

• Morning: Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!
• Afternoon: Head to the Vatican City. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums (don’t miss the Sistine Chapel!).
• Evening: Dinner in the Vatican area. Try some authentic Roman pasta, like Cacio e Pepe.

## Day 3: Rome to Sorrento

• Morning: Take a train from Rome to Sorrento (about 1 hour 15 minutes).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the charming streets of Sorrento. Visit the Marina Grande.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the Bay of Naples.

## Day 4: Capri Day Trip

• Morning: Take a ferry to Capri. Visit the Blue Grotto (weather permitting) and explore the island.
• Afternoon: Relax at Marina Piccola beach or take a chairlift to Monte Solaro for stunning views.
• Evening: Return to Sorrento and enjoy a leisurely dinner.

## Day 5: [Amalfi Coast](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Amalfi](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Amalfi&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")%20Coast&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")

• Morning: Rent a scooter or take a bus along the [Amalfi Coast](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Amalfi](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Amalfi&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")%20Coast&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Stop in Positano for some beach time.
• Afternoon: Continue to Amalfi. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral and grab a slice of the famous sfogliatella pastry.
• Evening: Head back to Sorrento for dinner.

## Day 6: Sorrento to Salerno

• Morning: Travel to Salerno (about 1 hour by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at Santa Teresa Beach. Relax and soak up the sun.
• Evening: Explore the historic center of Salerno and enjoy dinner at a local trattoria.

## Day 7: Salerno to Taormina

• Morning: Take a train to Taormina (this will take about 5-6 hours, so enjoy the scenic ride!).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the beautiful town. Visit the Greek Theatre.
• Evening: Dinner with a view of Mount Etna.

## Day 8: Taormina Beach Day

• Morning: Head to Isola Bella beach. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing.
• Afternoon: Explore the nearby Giardini Naxos for more beach time or water sports.
• Evening: Dinner in Taormina, perhaps try some local Sicilian dishes.

## Day 9: Taormina to Cefalù

• Morning: Travel to Cefalù (about 2 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax on the beautiful Cefalù Beach.
• Evening: Stroll through the charming old town and enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant.

## Day 10: Cefalù to Palermo

• Morning: Spend the morning at the beach or visit the Cefalù Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Travel to Palermo (about 1 hour by train). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant street food scene in Palermo. Try arancini and panelle!

## Day 11: Palermo

• Morning: Visit the Palermo Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Normanni.
• Afternoon: Explore the Capuchin Catacombs for a unique experience, then relax at Mondello Beach.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Palermo, savoring the local cuisine.

## Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a last stroll through Palermo.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful mix of beach relaxation and cultural exploration across some of Italy's most beautiful locations. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌊🍝🏖️