🇮🇹 13 Days in Italy
13 Days in Italy has a way of capturing your heart — with its ancient cities, sun-kissed coastlines, rolling vineyards, and irresistible food.
This 13-day Italy itinerary takes you through the best of Italy, flying in and out of Milan, and weaving together Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and Milan for a perfect balance of history, relaxation, and adventure.
💬 If we had it to do over again, we would have flown into the city we started in and out of the city we finished in.
Traveling from Milan and back to Milan cost us nearly a full day — but on the flip side, we did get to see downtown Milan, which is absolutely beautiful!
🚄 How We Traveled
We booked our Trenitalia trains online before the trip. HERE
We splurged on First Class tickets — they were more comfortable and allowed us to choose our seats. But they really weren’t that much more expensive.
Although we only booked about a month ahead, I’ve heard the earlier you book, the cheaper the tickets.
We also used Metro trains within cities, buying tickets as needed. Occasionally, we took taxis — always arranged through our hotel. We were told before going to Italy that all taxis accept credit card but didn’t find that to be the case.
🚖 Pro tip: Every taxi we took wanted cash.
Make sure to have Euros on hand to avoid surprises!
🏛️ Days 1–3: The Eternal City — Rome
We started in Rome, where ancient ruins and Renaissance beauty coexist in perfect harmony.
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
We flew into Milan, then took a high-speed train south to Rome (about 3 hours).
By the time we reached our hotel, it was dinner time, so we walked to a local pizza spot — because, of course, when in Rome! 🍕 I know you want the name but I would say don’t be tied to a certain restaurant. Just google “best restaurants near you” to find something good!
We used Marriott Bonvoy points and stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott Central Park Rome. We could see the Dome of Saint Peter’s Chapel. It’s outside the city center but within walking distance to a Metro station, making it easy to get around.
Day 2: The Vatican
We toured Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
Highly recommend Skip-the-Line tickets — we booked a private tour through Viator, and it was worth every Euro.
Afterward, we spent the day exploring the Vatican area. My best advice? Just wander! Every street has something beautiful to see. The other thing…grab a table at café and people watch! Lots of interesting ones to see!
Day 3: Ancient Rome
We booked another small group tour through Viator, which made for a more personalized experience.
In the morning, we toured the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
That afternoon we strolled through the city, visited the Trevi Fountain, and shopped for souvenirs. Although we waited in line to get down to the fountain, I was told we should have gone into the H&M Store across from it to get the best picture!
😅 Fun fact: If we hadn’t gotten lost, we would’ve made it to Trastevere, one of Rome’s most historic neighborhoods!
Pro tip: Pack your patience! We had one super tense moment when we got lost! I’m navigating, he’s not much help and let’s just say we both make it out alive! LOL! 30 minute blip in the 13 day trip wasn’t bad!
🌊 Days 4–6: Sun & Sea — The Amalfi Coast
Next stop: the stunning Amalfi Coast, where cliffside villages, lemon groves, and turquoise waters await.
Day 4: Rome → Naples
We took a morning train to Naples (about 1 hour) and checked into the Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo using Bonvoy points.
It’s located in a great part of town and walking distance to the port — convenient for tours and ferries.
After lunch on the pier, we took the Funicular up to Castel Sant’Elmo for sweeping views of Naples and the Mediterranean.
You can walk up, but it’s a serious workout — all uphill and lots of steps! We walked back down, and it still took about 45 minutes.
Day 5: Day Trip to Capri
We booked a Capri tour through Viator, but you can also take a ferry yourself.
The tour was incredible — we traveled up the Mamma Mia Road, visited the Gardens of Augustus, and took the chairlift to Monte Solaro for breathtaking views.
We also visited the Blue Grotto, which was open (we lucked out — it often closes due to high tides). If you book a tour, know that Blue Grotto access isn’t guaranteed, but if it’s open, don’t miss it!
Day 6: Naples → Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi
We booked a small group tour through Viator and visited Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi — three must-see towns.
Our guide even surprised us with a stop at a Limoncello factory — not on the itinerary, but fascinating! 🍋
We had about two hours in each town — not enough, but enough to fall in love.
🍷 Days 7–12: Culture & Countryside — Tuscany, Florence & Lucca
After the coast, we traded the sea breeze for rolling vineyards and Renaissance art in Tuscany.
Day 7: Amalfi → Florence
We took a morning train from Naples to Florence (~3 hours) and rented a car from Sixt We booked a month in advance — and yes, buy the insurance! People drive crazy and parking spots are tight. Better safe than sorry!
We explored Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and climbed the Duomo for city views.
That night, we stayed at the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. Although it was beautiful, it was farther from Florence than we realized — next time, we’d stay in Lucca for convenience.
Day 8: Back to Florence
Lunch at La Giostra — make a reservation! This 16th-century spot, once a carousel stable, now seats just 16 tables between the Duomo and Piazza Santa Croce. One word…Delicious!!!
After lunch, we visited the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries (hello, David).
Don’t skip Florence’s leather markets — incredible quality for a fraction of designer prices! 👜
Day 9: Lucca & Winery Visits
We Googled “wineries near me” and picked two highly rated ones — and both delivered!
- 🍷 Tenuta Adamo Winery – 5 tastings with bread.
- 🍇 Fattoria Al Dotto Lucca – 5 tastings with food pairings.
We also explored Lucca, an ancient town surrounded by the oldest Renaissance wall in history. You can walk the wall — and you should!
Day 10: Pisa, Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Lucca
We spent the day road-tripping through Tuscany’s coastal gems:
- Pisa – The Leaning Tower was an unexpected highlight.
- Viareggio – A lovely seaside city with canals that lead to the Mediterranean.
- Forte dei Marmi – Think “Italian Hamptons,” full of high-end boutiques and beach clubs.
That evening, we took a pasta cooking class in Lucca from Cesarine in the home of a Nonna! It was so fun learning how the Italians do pasta!
Day 11: Tuscany — Agriturismo Il Colle & Gucci Outlet
We headed toward Florence and Siena, stopping first at the Gucci Outlet (highly recommend — past-season bags and styles for men, women and children at great prices, plus VAT refund at the airport!).
We didn’t have solid plans, just wanted to explore — and luck was on our side. We stumbled upon Agriturismo Il Colle.
Giovanni, the owner, greeted us personally, gave us a tour, and served wine with charcuterie boards. The views? Unreal — you can see Florence from the hilltop.
It felt like a Tuscan dream — and would make a perfect destination wedding venue. You can even stay on the property! It’s got country club feel with Italian charm!
Day 12: Tuscany → Milan
We left early and drove to Milan, returning the rental car there.
In the afternoon, we explored Piazza del Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Sforza Castle.
To simplify travel day, we stayed at Moxy Milan Malpensa Airport — modern, comfortable, and right at the airport.
✈️ Day 13: Departure from Milan
We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast before heading to Milan Malpensa Airport for our flight home. We got to the airport 3 hours early so we could get the paperwork submitted for tax credits… If you spend a certain amount…I think $50 or more at any one place, ask for the paperwork for the tax credit.
Don’t Forget to Register Tax Refund at Airport
Visit the Refund Office or Kiosk at the Italian airport that you are traveling out of. Present the validated Tax Free Form. It can take up to 4 weeks to get refunded on your credit card. Note: This has to be done before you go through Security and get to your Gate. The areas are clearly marked but don’t be afraid to ask for help. I had to! We had to visit all 3 Refund offices. Besides Global Blue, the main tax credit (VAT refund) vendors operating in Italy are Planet (formerly Planet Payment/Fintrax) and Premier Tax Free.
Don’t Skip The Gelato
Seriously! I got thru Italy having 1 gelato a day and I don’t regret it! Also the Limoncello and Aperol Spritz drinks were so good! And you know the wine is amazing! Eat.Drink.Be Merry!
💡 Final Travel Tips
✅ Trains: Italy’s high-speed trains (Trenitalia or Italo) are fast, affordable, and efficient.
🧳 Luggage: Pack light — you’ll thank yourself on train platforms and cobblestone streets.
💵 Cash: Always carry Euros for taxis and small cafes.
🚗 Driving: Buy full insurance on car rentals — trust me.
📅 Timing: Spring and fall are ideal — They say fewer crowds and the temps were perfect.
A Few Pics from the Trip!
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