7 Days in Italy: 9 Amazing One Week Italy Itineraries

Are you so excited to plan a one-week trip to Italy?  Let’s make the most of your 7 days in Italy.  In this post, we are going to plan your one-week Italy itinerary. 

7 days in Italy might not seem like enough time, but don’t worry as long as you have a plan ready in advance you will be surprised at how much you can get done. 

In this post,I have come up with nine examples of sample Italy itineraries that hopefully help you decide what part of Italy you want to see. 

No matter which locations you add to your one-week Italy itinerary it will be an amazing 7-day Italy trip. You really can’t go wrong in Italy.

My family has been to Italy many times and always wants to go back.  There is a rich culture, architecture, art, history, and amazing landscapes to explore.  We love all of it! 

I created an amazing  Italy Travel Guide that has nine itineraries, food recommendations, and safety tips that you need to grab before you head to Italy! I promise this is good information that you do not want to miss out on! 

Let’s create the best itinerary in Italy! 

If you want to save this information for later be sure to pin this to Pinterest! 

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Planning a 1 Week in Italy Trip

Italy is an amazing country. There are many questions you have to ask yourself when you get ready to plan your 1 week Italy itinerary.

Is 1 Week Enough in Italy?

Yes, one week in Italy is enough time to explore a lot of this beautiful country! 

What Is The Best Month to Visit Italy?

May, June, September, and October are considered the best times to go to Italy.  You will get to experience the tourist season with wonderful weather.  I think that September may still be too hot.

We went in August once and we about melted.  It was so hot!  Also, August is the “month of holiday” where the Italians get almost the entire month off. 

A lot of places are closed, on the bright side crowds are typically lower because all the Italians tend to be on vacation.  Personally, I would not recommend it for a 7 day Italy tour.

Where Am I Going to Spend 7 Days in Italy?

The first question I like to ask is which part of Italy should I visit?  Do I want to stay in Northern Italy? Do I want to see Tuscany? Is Southern Italy the best? Do I want to get a taste of it all?

There are so many options when planning your one-week Italy itinerary, trying to decide can be tough.  Think about which cities are on the top of your list! What activities, museums, or buildings are a top priority?

How am I Going to Get From One Place to the Next?

What transportation options are there? This is the next question I would consider when planning my one-week Italy itinerary.  Am I going to rent a car, fly, take a train, or join a tour group?

We did a combination of trains, rental cars, and airplane travel.  We really wanted to see the majority of the country in the short amount of time we had.

What are the Best Hotels or Accommodations in Italy?

Where am I going to stay in Italy?  This is probably one of the first questions you need to ask after you book your flight. 

Each city is going to be a little different.  I can’t make this decision for you because everyone is different. Not to mention there are a lot of options out there. I would start with a site like Booking.com. Hotels.com or VRBO. You want to look at all of these options to find the best deals on accommodations in Italy. 

If you are a booking.com fan, you might want to get a membership to Wayaway Plus because they will give you discounts on both Booking and Viator.  

I also like staying at Marriott as well. Planning lodging for Italy for a week is a big step but we are going to focus more on where to visit in Italy for a week! 

A Week in Italy – Top Cities to Visit

Most Popular Cities in Italy

We have to start with the most well-known and most visited places in Italy.  These cities include Venice, Florence, Milan, and Rome.

Venice is unlike any other city in the entire world because it is actually built on tiny islands and uses water canals for transportation.

Florence is a city full of renaissance art. Milan is the fashion capital of the world.  Rome was the capital of the Roman empire and is the most visited city in Italy and the world.

Most Beautiful Cities in Italy

Obviously, this is a matter of opinion and I haven’t been to every city in Italy.  If you are going to Italy to enjoy the intense beauty of the country, I would recommend the Amalfi Coast and the Islands of Capri and Ischia. 

Also in the southern area is Puglia which is so amazing. Venice is so beautiful that it needs to make this list.  I also visited the east coast in a city called Gaeta which was spectacular.

I have not been to Cinque Terre but if you have looked at pictures it fits into this category.

If you have been to Italy and want to add to the list of the most beautiful cities comment below and let us know! All of these are great options for an Italy week itinerary! 

Italy One Week Itinerary Tour Group Options

Before you get started creating your one-week in Italy itinerary, you might want to consider booking a complete already planned tour. 

I have done a lot of research and found a company I trust and also I thought was reasonably priced.  Travelstride has a lot of great options! 

Top Group Tours

• 12 Days Wonder of Italy Tour
• Italy in 10 days Tour
• Amalfi Coast to Puglia Southern Italy Tour
• Taste of Italy Tour
• Italian Riviera and Cinque Terre
• 7-Day Southern Itlay Tour

Now, if tour groups aren’t your thing, don’t worry. We are going to explore which cities in Italy you want to add to your one-week in Italy itinerary. 

The first 4 samples Italy itineraries are going to be fast-paced.  You will see as much as you can in your 7-day Italy trip.

Northern Italy – 7 Day Italy Itinerary

Our first sample itinerary will include Venice, Verona, Milan, Lake Como, Cinque Terre, Lucca, Pisa, and Florence. 

Some of these places can be seen in just 1 day or less others you may want to spend more time exploring. 

Important Tip for Planning the Best Italy Itinerary

Remember, anything in blue is a link to a more detailed post on the area or a tour.  You will be able to click and find out more information on what to do in each area.

1. One Week Italy Itinerary – Choice Number 1

Day 1 – Day Trip – Venice

•  Heading to Venice is a great idea. If you want a romantic Venice experience that is totally possible too! Venice is a great place to start your Northern Italy itinerary. You will want to spend at least one day in Venice.

Day 2 – Day Trip – Verona and get to Milan by sunset

•  Romeo and Juliet put Verona on the map. Take a day trip and explore!   A day in Verona is plenty of time to see some of the most impressive sites.

Day 3  – Milan

• Book the “Last Supper” at least 4 months in advance. A  Day in Milan is a great choice and if you are lucky enough to book the Last Supper even better!

Day 4 – The Dolomites or Lake Como

• The Dolomites, are unbelievable. Close by is  Lake Como which is also a perfect way to spend a day. 

Day 5 – Cinque Terre – Lucca – Pisa

• Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal town you will love, and then after you explore them jump on the train and check out Lucca and Pisa. 

Day 6  Florence

• There is so much to do in Florence.  Florence is a great place to end your trip.  Some people prefer to spend a lot more time in Florence so it may be best to save Florence for another trip.   

Day 7  – Travel back to the airport

This is just one idea for your 7 days in Italy trip.  What I like about this itinerary is that you can add or take away any of these cities if you want to stay longer in one area.  Let’s explore some more one-week in Italy itineraries!

2. Northern Italy Travel Itinerary – Choice Number 2

This Northern Italy travel itinerary is for those who like to travel at a slower pace.  You can spend more time in each area and enjoy a few day trips. You will enjoy this option for Italy 7 days itinerary. 

Day 1

• Venice is your home base.  You will tour Venice on day one and then do day trips from Venice to the Dolomites and Verona. (Romeo and Juliet) 

Day  2

• Explore the Dolomites with a tour from Venice.

Day  3

• Explore Verona and the Romeo and Juliet sites from Venice. From Verona take a train to Milan.

Day 4 

Milan now becomes your home base.  Book a Last Supper ticket and enjoy a hop on hop off or complete Milan tour. 

Day 5 

• Book a day trip to Cinque Terre 

Day  6 

• Book a day trip from Milan to Lake Como.

Day 7

• If you have time book a train ride to the Alps then get ready to go home. 

Tours In Northern Italy

This next section will be dedicated to helping you know what the major highlights are in each area of Italy.  As you plan your 1 week in Italy itinerary you will want to include some tours.  

One thing that I found difficult about planning my Italy itinerary is realizing that sometimes staying in one area and taking a lot of day trips is okay too. 

I wanted to see everything in our trip.  I loved seeing all the different cities and going on adventures.  If you want to take it slower just stay in one area and do as many tours as you can.  These tour suggestions are great if you plan an Italy itinerary 7 days from Milan or Venice.

Let’s start with the best tours in Northern Italy.  

1. Lake Como and Bellagio

The Lake Como tour begins in Milan. You are picked up and transported north of Milan to the lake country.  This is a 10-hour tour and includes a cruise in the summer.

Lake Como Tour Options

• Boat Tour on Lake Como
• Lake Como Highlight Tour
• Lake Como Food Tour
• Train Tour to the Alps

2. Verona and Lake Garda

The Verona and Lake Tour leaves from Milan and includes Shakespeare and scenery.   The tour lasts about 12 hours. If you love Romeo and Juliet you need to do this.

Best Verona Tour Options

• Dolomite Tour from Lake Garda
• Verona Walking Tour
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
• Verona Food Tour

3. Venice Grand Canal Cruise

Cursing in Venice is a must! This tour is in Venice will take you to hidden canals and waterways that most tourists never see.  It is about a 1-hour private tour.

Best Venice Tours

• Complete Venice Day Tour
• Murano and Burano Tour
• Venice Food Tour
• Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade

4. The Dolomites

The Dolomites Tour allows you to see a section of the most amazing mountain range, the Alps!  It is an eight-hour beautiful escape from the city. The Dolomites make for great hiking in Italy adventure!

Best Tours of the Dolomites

• Dolomite Hiking Tour
• Lakes of the Dolomites
• Helicopter Tour of the Dolomites

5. Milan- Last Supper Tickets

Last Supper Tickets and Milan Sightseeing Tour is a one of the best things to do in Milan.  Besides just being a great tour I have read that you need to book your Last Supper tickets months in advance.

Best Milian Tours

• Milan Food Tour
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
• Full-Day Milan Tour

Central Italy – 7-Day Italy Itinerary

Florence is your home base in this itinerary. There is enough to keep you busy for days in this area of Italy! This Italy itinerary begins in Northern Italy but focuses mostly on Tuscany. 

3. One Week Italy Itinerary – Choice Number 3

Day 1 -2  – Venice or Milan

• The most common places to fly into Northern Italy are Venice and Milan.  Pick some tours listed above for these days. You can also fly directly to Florence if you do not want to add Venice or Milan to your 7-day Italy itinerary, 

Day 2 – 6 – Florence

There are many things to do in Florence that could keep you busy for days.  However, I suggest you go on day trips throughout Tuscany.  I would consider doing day trips to the following cities:

• Cinque Terre
• Lucca
• Pisa
• Siena
• Bologna
• Hill Towns of Central Italy
• Volterra
• SanGimignano
• Montepulciano

With this one-week Italy itinerary, you have a lot of options to see a lot of great cities. 

The same train stops at Pisa, Lucca, and Cinque Terre.  It may be hard to do this on a one-day trip, but you have the choice to stay the night in one of these cities.

Travel back to the airport to end these 7 days in Italy! 

If you plan to visit Tuscany, this is a great option for your 7 day Italy itinerary.  Do more research on each city.

4. One Week in Italy Itinerary – Choice Number 4

This is a more slow-paced itinerary of Italy central region.  You will split your Italy trip partly in Florence and partly in Cinque Terre. 

Day 1 – 2 

Explore Florence and visit the museums and art collections. 

Day 3 – 4

Pick two day trips to the countryside or surrounding cities. (Pisa, Lucca, Siena)

Day 5 – 7

Head to Cinque Terre and spend your last days exploring this area.  

Tours in Central Italy

Central Italy includes Tuscany and wine country.  There are some amazing cities to explore in this area.  You could easily spend a week in Tuscany. 

Let’s explore some tours in central Italy!

1. Pisa and Lucca

Pisa Tour from Florence is a great way to see Pisa.  This tour includes transportation and entrance to the cathedral.

Best Tours of Pisa and Lucca

• Pisa Food Tour
• Pisa Walking Tour
• Lucca Bike and Food Tour

2. Florence

Bike Tour of Florence is a great way to see Florence!  I love biking tours! This tour allows you to see much more than a bus tour.

Best Florence Tours

• Florence Walking Tour
• Food Tour in Florence
• Florence River Cruise

3. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre Tour from Florence takes about 12 hours. Cinque Terre is a must-see. It is so beautiful.

Best Tours of Cinque Terre

• Walking and Food Tour
• Horse ride in Cinque Terre
• Boat Tour of Cinque Terre

4. Tuscany 

The charm of Tuscany Tour is for wine, bread, and cheese lovers.  Experience Tuscany in this 10-hour tour!

There is also a Treasures of Tuscany Tour which is a journey through Medieval cities.  I have visited all of these cities and it was amazing!

Best Tours of Tuscany

• Tuscany Wine and Countryside Tour
• Tuscany Villas and Vineyards
• Cooking Class in Tuscan Farmhouse

Southern Italy – 7 Day Italy Itinerary

Southern Italy is beautiful.  This Italy travel itinerary will explore three areas: Rome, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast. So if you are looking for a 1 week Italy itinerary with Amalfi Coast this is it! 

5. One Week Italy Itinerary – Choice Number 5

This Italy travel itinerary has a home base of Rome for a few days and then the Amalfi Coast.

Day 1-3  – Rome

• Start in Rome.  3 Days in Rome Itinerary will probably be enough time.  There are so many historical, religious, and architectural sites to see. Once you have explored Rome it is time to visit a few more Southern Italian cities. 

Day 4 – Pompeii

• Pompeii is a archeological sites.  Over 2000 years ago Mt. Vesuvius exploded and its ash preserved the entire town of Pompeii.  Make a Day trip.

Day 5-7 – Amalfi Coast

• Plan a Trip to the Amalfi Coast. 

There are actually 13 towns along the Amalfi Coast but about 5 must-see stops.  After you conclude your 7 days in Italy itinerary head back to Rome or Naples to fly home!

This area is absolutely beautiful! The Mediterranean Sea is gorgeous!  You may want to consider going even further south to Calabria or Sicily if you have any extra time. 

6. One Week In Italy Itinerary – Number 6

This sample Italy travel itinerary is slower-paced.  It does not include Rome. 

Day 1 – 2

• You will start this Italy vacation itinerary in Naples.  You can explore the city on day one and then do a day trip to Gaeta or Pompeii.

Day 4 – 5 

• You can take a ferry to Capri and spend the night on the island.  We did this and it was incredible! Spend two days exploring the island. 

Day 6 – 7

• Take a ferry to Sorrento and explore the Amalfi Coast.  Sorrento will be your home base. You can check out all the major cities and do a few tours. 

Tours in Southern Italy

There are some amazing tours in Southern Italy to add to your 1 week Italy tour.  From Rome to the Coast, there is something for everyone. 

1. Classic Rome Tour

A Classic Rome Tour will guide you all over the city hitting the sightseeing spots.

Best Rome Tours

• Colosseum Roman Forum Tour
• Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour
• Rome Catacombs

2. Capri and Naples

Capri and Naples Tour is a great adventure.  The Island of Capri is absolutely magical. Having a guide in Naples will really be helpful too!

Best Capri and Naples Tours

• Blue Grotto Tour in Capri
• Naples Pizza Making Class

3. Pompeii

Pompeii is a city that has been preserved from volcanic ash.  

Tours of Pompeii

• Pompeii Walking Tour
• Pompeii with an Archaeologist 

4. Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast Tour is one of the most amazing sites in Italy!  Undoubtedly, I would include this in my one-week in Italy Itinerary for sure!  It is absolutely stunning!

Best Amalfi Coast Tours

• Pizza Making and Limoncello
• Sorrento Food and Walking Tour
• Path of the Gods

Take On Italy – 7 Day Italy Itinerary 

This last sample 1 week Italy itinerary will start in the north  (Venice) and go all the way down to the Amalfi Coast.  It will hit the major cities with a few detours.  

This is a fast-paced way to see a lot of Italy! 

7. One Week Italy Itinerary – Choice Number 7

Day 1 – Venice

• Venice is a great way to start your trip. Spend a complete day exploring. 

Day 2 – 3  – Train to Florence

• Check out Florence
• Day Trip to Pisa, Lucca, and Cinque Terre
• (2 hours for Pisa, 2 hours for Lucca, and the rest of the day for Cinque Terre)

Day 4 – Rent a car and drive to Rome

• Stop in Siena for lunch
• Head to Rome and spend a complete day (take a tour) 

Day 5 – Drive to Naples airport return car take the ferry to Capri

• Hang out in Naples if you have time.
• Capri is an amazing island with grottoes all around it! 

Day 6 – Amalfi Coast – Pompeii

• Travel Down the Amalfi Coast.  Positano, Sorrento, Amalfi, and Ravello and Paestum. 
• Visit Pompeii

Day 7 – Fly back to Venice to return home

• You can fly pretty cheaply on Easy Jet within the country.

8. One Week in Italy Itinerary Without Rome – Choice Number 8

This is a southern Italy travel itinerary without Rome.  

Day 1 

• Spend your first day exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum. These are archaeological sites.

Day 2 – 3 

• Explore the Amalfi Coast.

Day 4 – 5 

• Head to the islands of Capri and Ischia.

Day 6 – 7 

• Head to Bari – Mare Caves. Get ready to head back.

9. One Week in Italy Itinerary – The Boot of Italy – Choice Number 9

This is a super southern Italy travel itinerary! We like to call this the boot of Italy.

Day 1 – 3

• Spend some time in Rome and then fly to Palermo. (There is a direct flight from Rome to Palermo)

Day 4 -5 

• Explore Palermo and do a few tours,

Day 6 – 7 

• Spend the rest of your time Island hopping in Sicily and visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Are You Ready to Plan a 7 days Itinerary in Italy?

I hope thesesample Itlay itineraries help you plan out your one-week in Italy trip!   There are so many options!  No matter which direction you decide to go, you will have a wonderful time! 

I highly recommend getting an Italy Travel Guidebook before planning your trip. There are so many great reasons for you to visit Italy!  Make sure you review the Italy safety tips and be prepared for your trip.  

Oh yes, don’t forget your Italy gifts and Italy souvenirs! 

Facebook Community

Above all, if you have any questions be sure to join my Facebook Travel Community. This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me! 

If there is another tour in mind be sure to ask me because I have access to a lot of fun options!

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