Italy Itinerary

5 Days Italy Itinerary for First-time Visitors

VFS Global offers a streamlined visa application process to Italy from India. To apply, select the appropriate visa type, such as Short Term Schengen "C" Type, to view essential information on visa fees, required documents, photo specifications, and processing times. Applicants must provide their working phone number on the application form, as the embassy reserves the right to verify it.

Once the visa is sorted, pack light but efficient— comfortable shoes, fashionable clothes, and a camera to capture the moments.

Let's begin your trip in the capital city, Rome!

• Day 1: Rome – Ancient Wonders and Vibrant Life

  Start your Italian adventure in Rome, where ancient ruins and modern life converge beautifully.

  Morning

  Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport and head to your hotel. After settling in, visit the Colosseum, one of the world’s most famous ancient structures, and visit the Roman Forum to experience what was once the heart of ancient Rome.

  Afternoon

  Take a leisurely walk to the Pantheon, a marvel of Roman engineering, and then relax in Piazza Navona, an elegant square filled with street artists and fountains.

  Evening

  Finish the day with dinner in Trastevere, a neighbourhood known for its authentic Roman eateries and vibrant nightlife.

• Day 2: Vatican City – Spirituality and Art

  On your second day, immerse yourself in the religious and artistic splendour of Vatican City.

  Morning

  Begin with a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, home to masterpieces like Michelangelo’s "Pietà." Ascend to the dome for an awe-inspiring view over Rome.

  Afternoon

  Visit the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, where you can marvel at Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling frescoes and "The Last Judgement."

  Evening

  Stroll along the Tiber River and enjoy the sights before settling for dinner in Campo de’ Fiori, famous for its lively atmosphere and Roman cuisine.

• Day 3: Florence – Renaissance Art and Culture

  Your journey continues in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where art and history collide.

  Morning

  Take a high-speed train from Rome to Florence. Upon arrival, visit Piazza del Duomo to marvel at Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery.

  Afternoon

  Head to the Uffizi Gallery, home to works by Renaissance greats like Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo. Take some time to wander through the charming streets of Florence and cross the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge.

  Evening

  Enjoy an authentic Tuscan meal in Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florence’s social life, while admiring statues like Michelangelo’s "David" in the adjacent square.

• Day 4: Tuscany – Wine and Hill Towns

  Explore the rolling hills of Tuscany, famous for its picturesque landscapes, wine, and mediaeval towns.

  Morning

  Take a guided tour to Siena, a beautiful mediaeval city famous for its Piazza del Campo and Gothic-style Duomo. Wander the narrow streets and soak in the city’s historical atmosphere.

  Afternoon

  Head to San Gimignano, known for its 14 mediaeval towers and charming streets. Don't miss visiting a local Tuscan winery to have world-renowned wines like Chianti or Brunello and enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the Tuscan countryside.

  Evening

  Return to Florence and spend a relaxed evening by the Arno River, enjoying a peaceful end to your day in Tuscany.

• Day 5: Venice – Canals and Romance

  End your Italy trip itinerary in Venice, the city of canals and romance.

  Morning

  Catch an early morning train to Venice. Begin with a gondola ride through the famous canals, a quintessential Venetian experience. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and stroll around Piazza San Marco, taking in the grandeur of this iconic square.

  Afternoon

  Visit the Doge's Palace and walk across the Bridge of Sighs, rich in history and legend. Wander through Venice’s backstreets, stopping at small cafes and shops selling Venetian glass and masks.

  Evening

  Before departing, enjoy dinner at a local trattoria, a small Italian restaurant that typically serves traditional, home-style dishes.

FAQs

• Q1: What is the best way for Indians to experience authentic Italian food without overspending in Italy?

  Ans: Avoid restaurants in major tourist areas like near the Colosseum or Piazza San Marco. Instead, venture into smaller neighbourhoods for family-run trattorias that offer better prices and more authentic experiences.

• Q2: How do you handle language barriers while travelling from India to Italy?

  Ans: While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases (like greetings or how to ask for directions) can be helpful. Download a translation app for assistance in rural areas.

• Q3: How do you rent an electric scooter or bike in Italian cities?

  Ans: Cities like Rome and Florence offer electric scooter and bike rentals through apps such as Lime or Bird. Download the app, find a nearby scooter, and rent it directly for easy city navigation..

• Q4: What is the emergency number in Italy?

  Ans: The general emergency number in Italy is 112, which connects you to police, fire, or medical services. Be sure to save this number during your travels.

• Q5: What should you do if you lose your passport while in Italy?

  Ans: Report the loss to local police and contact your country’s embassy or consulate immediately for assistance getting an emergency travel document. Keep copies of your important documents stored separately for such emergencies.