How to Spend One Week in Italy: Visit Rome, Florence, and Venice

Italy—the land of art, history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and timeless beauty—is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply a foodie at heart, Italy offers something special for every kind of traveler.

If you have only one week to explore Italy, focusing on three of its most iconic cities—Rome, Florence, and Venice—is a perfect way to experience the essence of the country. This itinerary will guide you through the best highlights, tips, and must-see sights in these cities, helping you make the most of your 7-day Italy trip.

Day 1-3: Rome – The Eternal City

Start your Italy adventure in Rome, a city that blends ancient history with modern-day vibrancy.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

• Arrival: Fly into Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) and take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation in the city center.
• Accommodation Tip: Choose a central location near Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, or the Colosseum for easy access to major attractions.
• Evening Activity: Take a relaxing walk around Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, and enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Roman trattoria.

Day 2: Ancient Rome

• Morning: Visit the Colosseum, one of the greatest symbols of ancient Rome, and explore the Roman Forum. Consider booking a skip-the-line tour to avoid long queues.
• Afternoon: Head to the Pantheon, a stunningly preserved Roman temple, and then visit Piazza del Popolo for its grand architecture and open space.
• Evening: Explore the Trevi Fountain, and be sure to toss a coin in for good luck. For dinner, enjoy a pizza or pasta at a local eatery near the Spanish Steps.

Day 3: Vatican City and Baroque Rome

• Morning: Visit the Vatican Museums, which house the incredible Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms. Don’t miss the St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.
• Afternoon: After lunch, explore the Piazza di Spagna, and climb the famous Spanish Steps for panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Take a leisurely walk through Trastevere, a charming neighborhood known for its lively nightlife and great restaurants.

Day 4-5: Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Next, head to Florence, the capital of Tuscany and a city steeped in Renaissance art and architecture.

Day 4: Arrival in Florence

• Morning: Take a train from Rome to Florence (about 1.5 hours). Arrive at Santa Maria Novella Station and head to your hotel.
• Accommodation Tip: Stay in the city center near Piazza del Duomo or the Ponte Vecchio for easy access to key landmarks.
• Afternoon: Start your Florence adventure at the Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral). Don’t forget to climb the Giotto’s Campanile for breathtaking views of the city.
• Evening: Stroll through Piazza della Signoria, where you’ll find a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the Palazzo Vecchio. Enjoy dinner at one of the traditional Tuscan restaurants.

Day 5: Art and Culture in Florence

• Morning: Visit the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Raphael, and Michelangelo. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
• Afternoon: After lunch, head to Piazza della Signoria and take a walk to the Ponte Vecchio, the most famous bridge in Florence, lined with jewelry shops.
• Evening: Head to Piazzale Michelangelo for the most beautiful sunset view over Florence. It’s a perfect spot for photos, offering a panoramic view of the city and the Arno River.

Day 6-7: Venice – The City of Canals

Finish your one-week Italy journey in the enchanting city of Venice, known for its romantic canals and unique charm.

Day 6: Arrival in Venice

• Morning: Take a train from Florence to Venice (about 2 hours). When you arrive, take a water taxi or Vaporetto (public water bus) to your hotel.
• Accommodation Tip: Stay near Piazza San Marco or Rialto Bridge for easy access to Venice’s key attractions.
• Afternoon: Explore Piazza San Marco, home to St. Mark’s Basilica, Campanile, and the Doge’s Palace. Be sure to visit the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the Palazzo Ducale to the prison.
• Evening: Take a leisurely gondola ride along the Grand Canal or wander through the narrow streets to discover hidden squares and charming cafes.

Day 7: Explore Venice’s Islands

• Morning: Take a Vaporetto to the islands of Murano (famous for glassmaking) and Burano (known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition). Spend a few hours on each island, exploring their unique charm.
• Afternoon: Return to Venice and take a stroll around the Rialto Market and Rialto Bridge, two of Venice’s oldest landmarks.
• Evening: For your last evening in Venice, enjoy dinner by the canal at one of the seafood restaurants and soak in the magical ambiance.