Romantic Italy Itinerary (7 Days) for Tourists

A week in Italy is not enough. This beautiful country has larger-than-life cathedrals, churches, and iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which are breathtaking architectural marvels.

It is considered one of Europe’s most passionate and romantic countries and the perfect place to visit with your partner. With this Italy itinerary (7 days), we will help you cover the gorgeous cities of Rome and Milan with a day trip to the smallest country in the world, the Vatican City. 

Passionate Italy Itinerary 7 Days

Here is the perfect itinerary with the best places to visit in Italy in 7 days:

Week Plan	Things To Do
Day 1	Start your journey to Italy with Rome. Land in the city and book an accommodation in Monti neighbourhood. This charming bohemian city centre is close to all the major landmarks, vintage shops, amazing trattorias (traditional Italian eateries) serving traditional Roman cuisine and the famous Fatamorgana Gelato!
Day 2	Take a day trip to the Vatican City. Visit the beautiful Saint Peter’s Basilica, an awe-inspiring Renaissance and Baroque architecture masterpiece. Explore the vast Vatican Museums, including the breathtaking Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s unparalleled frescoes, and the Vatican Gardens. Shop in the Borgo neighbourhood before heading back to your hotel.
Day 3	Visit the Borghese Gallery and Museum in a beautiful villa within the Borghese Gardens. Enjoy a picnic in the picturesque Borghese Garden. Explore the vibrant Campo de Fiori, a bustling market, and the charming streets of the Jewish Ghetto. Take a food tour and soak in the Roman life.
Day 4	Head straight to the iconic Duomo di Milano. Enjoy dinner in the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful 19th-century glass-roofed arcade adjacent to the Duomo.
Day 5	Visit Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a grand medieval fortress that houses several museums, including the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco (art gallery). Explore the peaceful Sempione Park behind it. Have lunch in the Brera district, known for its artistic atmosphere and charming cafes and trattorias.
Day 6	Visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. Go shopping in the most renowned high-end streets in Milan are Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. You must explore the Navigli district, Milan’s historic canal district, and go boat riding in the canals.
Day 7	On your last day in Milan, go shopping and explore the cobbled streets. Book your cab to the airport in advance so you don’t miss your flight.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome, City of Love and Ancient Heart

Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Take the Leonardo Express train to Rome Termini station, or a taxi or private transfer to your accommodation in Monti. Check in and leave your luggage.

Head straight to the iconic Colosseum, the adjacent Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Pre-booking your tickets online is highly recommended to save time. Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore these incredible archaeological sites, imagining the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

Find a traditional trattoria near the Roman Forum for an authentic Roman lunch. You must visit: 

• La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali: Try classics like pasta all’amatriciana or saltimbocca.
• La Taverna Dei Monti: Traditional seafood and pasta options in Roman style. 
• Pizzeria della Madonna dei Monti: Known for their authentic Italian pizzas. 
• Taverna dei migliori: Homely pasta dishes, bruschetta, gnoochi and more!

Walk towards the magnificent Pantheon, a remarkably preserved ancient temple now a church. Marvel at its architectural genius and the Oculus. 

Afterward, toss a coin into the famous Trevi Fountain and soak in the lively atmosphere of Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps.

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll and find a charming restaurant in the Monti neighborhood. This neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, independent boutiques, and trattorias (traditional Italian eateries) serving traditional Roman cuisine.

Don’t forget to try delicious gelato at Fatamorgana Gelato! They have 66 unique flavours for you to choose from.

Flights and Italy Visa for Indians

• Flights between India and Italy are frequent; the round-trip costs start at ₹50,000. 
• Italy is part of the Schengen territory, and hence, all tourists must obtain a Schengen visa to visit the country. 

Tips: 

• Pack your sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. 
• Learn a few Italian phrases and words to navigate the country. 
• Be mindful of riposo (rest) or pisonino, when Italy slows down and rests in the afternoon. 
• Beware of pickpockets and scammers in popular cities. 
• Book your accommodation, trains, and activities in advance. 

Must Read: Italy Visa for Indians: Requirements, Fees, Process & Eligibility 

Day 2: Trip to Vatican City & Imperial Grandeur

On your second day in a 7-day trip to Italy, head to Vatican City. Visit Saint Peter’s Basilica, an awe-inspiring Renaissance and Baroque architecture masterpiece. Consider climbing to the dome for panoramic views of Rome.

Explore the vast Vatican Museums, including the breathtaking Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s unparalleled frescoes, and the Vatican Gardens. Book your tickets online well in advance to avoid excessively long queues.

Find a casual eatery near the Vatican for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo, adorned with angel statues, and explore Castel Sant’Angelo, a cylindrical fortress with centuries of history, originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum. Enjoy the views from its terrace.

Enjoy dinner in the Borgo neighborhood near the Vatican, or head back towards the city center for more options. 

Also Read: How to Book an Italy Visa Appointment in India 

Day 3: Art Museums, Gardens & Local Flavors

Source: wikipedia

Visit the Borghese Gallery and Museum, housed in a beautiful villa within the Borghese Gardens. This gallery houses masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio. Reservations are mandatory and should be made well in advance (often weeks or even months).

Enjoy a picnic in the picturesque Borghese Gardens or find a café near the gallery.

Explore the vibrant Campo de’ Fiori, a bustling market during the day (except Sundays) that transforms into a lively square in the evening. 

Wander through the charming streets of the Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe, and admire the Great Synagogue.

Take a food tour in the Trastevere neighborhood to sample local specialties, or choose a trattoria in this charming area for dinner, and enjoy the lively atmosphere and traditional Roman dishes.

Also Read: Italy’s Famous Food: 28 Must-Try Dishes 

Day 4: High-Speed Train to Milan & First Impressions

Enjoy a final Roman breakfast. Depending on your train schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping near the Pantheon or a visit to a neighborhood you haven’t fully explored.

Take a high-speed train (e.g., Frecciarossa or Italo) from Rome Termini station to Milan Centrale station. The journey typically takes around 3 hours. Book your train tickets in advance for better prices.

Upon arrival in Milan, navigate the impressive Milan Centrale station and take public transport (metro, tram, or taxi) to your accommodation, ideally located near the city center. Check in and leave your luggage.

Head straight to the iconic Duomo di Milano. Marvel at its stunning Gothic architecture from the outside, with its thousands of spires and statues. Take the elevator or stairs to the rooftop terraces for breathtaking panoramic views of Milan.

Enjoy dinner in the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful 19th-century glass-roofed arcade adjacent to the Duomo. While the restaurants here can be pricier, the atmosphere is unique. Alternatively, explore the streets behind the Galleria for more local options.

Must Read: Italy Visa Rejection for Indians: 10 Common Reasons 

Day 5: Art Museums & History

Source: Wikipedia

Visit Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a grand medieval fortress that now houses several museums, including the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco (art gallery) and museums dedicated to decorative arts, musical instruments, and more. Explore the vast castle grounds and the peaceful Sempione Park behind it.

Have lunch in the Brera district, known for its artistic atmosphere and charming cafes and trattorias. If you want to try some amazing pasta, head to: 

• Osteria Da Fortunata – Brera
• Brera 29 Cucina & Cocktails
• Al Matarel
• Trattoria Torre di Pisa

Immerse yourself in art at the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important art galleries, featuring masterpieces by Venetian and Lombard masters. Afterward, stroll through the trendy Brera district, browsing its art galleries, boutiques, and antique shops.

Experience Milan’s renowned aperitivo culture in the Brera or Navigli district. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks accompanied by a generous spread of snacks. You can head to:

• Bar Jamaica
• N’Ombra de Vin
• Associazione Salumi e Vini Naturali
• La Prosciutteria Milano Brera

Also Read: Temples in Italy: Stunning Ancient Shrines on Your Itinerary 

Day 6: Leonardo da Vinci, Luxury Shopping & Modern Skyline

Source: wikipedia

If you have booked well in advance (essential!), visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. Tickets are extremely limited and often sell out months in advance. Allow ample time for your scheduled visit.

Explore the Navigli district, Milan’s historic canal district. Take a stroll along the canals, admire the colorful buildings, and browse the artisan shops and galleries. Consider a boat tour on the canals.

Enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants or trattorias lining the Navigli canals, offering a variety of cuisines.

Discover the modern side of Milan in the Porta Nuova district, known for its striking contemporary skyscrapers, including the Vertical Forest (Bosco Verticale). Stroll through Piazza Gae Aulenti, a modern urban square with water features and shops.

The most renowned high-end streets in Milan are Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. It’s home to boutiques of Italian heritage houses like Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace, as well as international luxury names like Prada, Dior, and Bottega Veneta.

You must do some luxury shopping in these high streets, click photos, check out the latest collection, and marvel at the gorgeous boutiques and their intricate structures.

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Milan. Consider trying a traditional Milanese dish like risotto alla Milanese or cotoletta alla Milanese. For a memorable final evening, you might choose a restaurant with views of the modern skyline.

Also Read: Enjoy Italy in January: Weather, Festivals, and More! 

Day 7: Farewell: Souvenirs, Relaxation, and Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping near the Duomo or a final Milanese breakfast at a local pasticceria.

Take public transport (metro or train) or a taxi to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Milan Linate Airport (LIN) for your departure. Ensure you allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures.

Must Read: Solo Travel in Italy: Exploring This Charming Country Alone 

Accommodations in Italy 

Italy is one of the most gorgeous countries in Europe, and depending on your budget, you can find a variety of accommodations in Rome and Milan based on your budget. 

Rome	Milan
Budget Hotel Roma Tor Vergata B&B HOTEL Roma Trastevere COMFORT INN ROMA TERMINI  Residence Magnolia Deluxe Rooms Roma	Budget QUO Milano HI Ostello Milano Idea Hotel Milano San Siro YellowSquare Milan Corte Milano
Midrange River Palace Hotel MyTALE Creative Academy Hotel Rome – Boutique Hotel 4 stelle & Rooftop Mozart Hotel Rome Saint B boutique hotel Hotel Re Di Roma	Midrange Hotel Da Vinci Hotel ibis Milano Centro Hotel Lancaster Milan Cosmo Hotel Palace Eco Hotel Milano
Luxury The St. Regis Rome Palazzo Manfredi Fendi Private Suites The Westin Excelsior, Rome Hotel de Russie	Luxury Four Seasons Hotel Milano Bulgari Hotel Milano Park Hyatt Milan Armani Hotel Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale

Also Read: Italy on a Budget: Affordable Experiences 

Shopping in Italy 

Here are some of the best shopping streets in Rome and Milan that you must visit on your Italy trip: 

Via Condotti	This is Rome’s most luxurious shopping street, located near the Spanish Steps. It’s home to high-end designer boutiques like Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Bulgari, and more. Best things to buy: Designer clothing, high-quality leather goods, shoes, and jewelry. Even window shopping here is a treat.
Via del Corso	A long and busy main street in the center of Rome, stretching from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo. It offers a wider range of shops for various budgets, including international brands, popular Italian chains, and department stores like La Rinascente. Best things to buy: Clothing, shoes, accessories, cosmetics, and more affordable fashion options. It’s a great place to find trendy items.
Via Cola di Rienzo	Located in the elegant Prati neighborhood near the Vatican, this street offers a more refined shopping experience than Via del Corso. You’ll find a mix of well-known Italian and international brands, as well as independent boutiques. Best things to buy: Clothing, shoes, accessories, and particularly Italian jewelry and leather goods of good quality.
Via del Babuino	Connecting Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, this elegant street features high-fashion boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. It has a more sophisticated and less crowded atmosphere than some other main streets. Best things to buy: High-end fashion, art, antiques, and unique finds.
Via del Governo Vecchio	Situated near Piazza Navona, this charming street is known for its vintage shops, independent fashion stores, and unique, often quirky items. Best things to buy: Vintage clothing, accessories, books, and unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Monti Neighborhood (especially Via del Boschetto, Via degli Zingari, Via dei Serpenti).	This trendy district near the Colosseum is perfect for discovering independent boutiques, artisan shops, and vintage finds. It has a more bohemian and alternative vibe. Best things to buy: Vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, leather goods, and unique creations by local designers.
Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrilateral)	This is Milan’s most famous and exclusive shopping district, formed by four main streets: Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni. It’s a paradise for luxury fashion lovers, hosting flagship stores of all major Italian and international designers. Best things to buy: High-end designer clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and accessories from brands like Gucci, Prada, Versace, Armani, and more.
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II	A pedestrian-friendly street connecting Piazza del Duomo to Piazza San Babila. It offers a mix of well-known fashion chains, sportswear shops, and some designer stores, catering to a broader range of budgets. Best things to buy: Popular fashion brands, shoes, accessories, and it’s a great spot for window shopping with views of the Duomo.
Corso Buenos Aires	One of the longest shopping streets in Europe. It stretches for over a kilometer. It features a high concentration of clothing stores, shoe shops, and various other retailers offering more affordable options. Best things to buy: Budget-friendly clothing, shoes, accessories, cosmetics, and everyday fashion items.
rera District (especially Via Fiori Chiari, Via Brera, Via Solferino)	Known for its bohemian charm, Brera offers a more curated shopping experience with art galleries, design shops, jewelry stores, and independent boutiques. Best things to buy: Unique jewelry, art pieces, design objects, artisanal clothing, and antiques.

Note: If you’re looking for authentic Italian products, especially leather goods, shoes, and clothing, remember to check for the Made in Italy tag. Also, be aware of the sales seasons (Saldi) in January/February and July/August, when you can find significant discounts.

Italian Opera 

Italy is the birthplace of Opera. Heavily influenced by iconic composers like Verdi and Puccini, Italian opera is the centre of culture. Opera is a beautiful musical theatre performance and a part of Western classical music. When in Rome, watching an opera performance is a must. Some of the best venues are Teatro dell’Opera di Roma and St. Paul’s Within the Walls.

Pro Tip: Remember to dress up and arrive on time so you don’t miss out on a worldly performance. 

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FAQs

Is 7 days enough to explore Italy?

7 days should be enough to explore Italian cities like Rome, Vatican City, and Milan. These cities are well-connected, beautiful, and culturally and historically vibrant. 

• You can visit landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain in Rome. 
• The Vatican has Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.
• You can visit the iconic Duomo di Milano and the Sforzesco Castle in Milan.

What is the average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in Italy?

The average daily cost in Italy is ₹5,000- ₹6,000. You can reduce this cost by living in hostels, trying street food, and taking free tours.

Which is the best month to visit Italy?

The best time to visit Italy is April-May and September-October. The weather is pleasant and this is considered the peak season. 

How much money to take to Italy for 7 days?

You must carry ₹2-₹3 lakhs for your trip to Italy. Cities like Milan and Rome can be expensive and are home to Italian luxury brands where you can get iconic and authentic luxury goods as souvenirs. 

Which area of Italy is best to stay in?

The best places to stay in Italy are Milan and Rome. The two cities are culturally vibrant and historically rich; they are home to beautiful landmarks, restaurants, and vintage shops. Italians are also very welcoming and inclusive; they will make your trip unforgettably exciting. 

How do I get around in Italy?

To travel within cities, you can utilize a combination of trains, buses, and taxis, and if you are traveling intercity, you can take flights and trains. 

What does a 7-day Italy itinerary include?

An Italy itinerary 7 days must include Rome, Vatican City, and Milan. These cities are your insight into Italian culture, history, and heritage. Italy has the most beautiful monuments, friendly locals, and the epicentre of art, culture, and romance.