Italy: Treasures and Hidden Gems in an Epic 16-Days Journey!

Italy will always remain special and close to my heart because it was my first trip abroad in 2017. 🙂 This blog will help you to discover the treasures and hidden gems of Italy in 16 days with the best tourist attractions, indulge in mouth-watering vegetarian cuisine, and experience the ultimate Italian adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, our itinerary has something for everyone, so get ready to eat, explore, and enjoy the best of Italy!

Useful Trivia for Traveling in Italy:

• Local Currency: The official currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR).
• Languages Spoken: The official language of Italy is Italian. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations, making communication relatively easy for travelers.
• Visa Details: Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you might need a Schengen visa to enter Italy and other countries in the Schengen Area.
• Largest Community: Italy’s largest community is the Italian population itself, followed by various ethnic and linguistic minority groups.
• Mode of Transport: Italy has an extensive and efficient transportation system. Trains are a popular choice for traveling between cities, offering high-speed options like the Frecciarossa. Buses and metros are commonly used for local transport within cities. Italy’s well-connected network of ferries is also great for exploring its many coastal destinations.
• Essential Apps: Google Maps is a valuable app for navigation and finding local attractions. If you plan to use public transportation, apps like Trenitalia and Moovit can help you with train and bus schedules. Additionally, apps like TripAdvisor and Yelp can assist in finding recommended restaurants and attractions.
• Local SIM Card: You can easily find local SIM cards from providers like TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre. These SIM cards offer data and voice services, allowing you to stay connected and share your travel experiences.
• Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is essential for your trip to Italy. Make sure it covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost belongings, and other unexpected situations. Italy’s diverse landscapes and rich culture provide numerous opportunities for exploration, so having reliable insurance is important for your peace of mind.

Vegetarian places to eat:

• In Venice: La Zucca, Osteria da Alberto
• In Verona: Osteria del Bugiardo, Bottega del Vino
• In Florence: Trattoria Mario, Il Vegetariano
• In Naples: Pizzeria Di Matteo, Pizzeria Sorbillo
• In Rome: Pizzeria La Montecarlo, Pizzeria La Montecarlo

Day Wise Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Venice

Arrive in Venice and check into your hotel, ideally located near St. Mark’s Square. Spend the next two days exploring the city, taking in the stunning architecture and walking along the canals. Visit the Doge’s Palace, the Basilica di San Marco, and the Rialto Bridge. Take a romantic gondola ride, and enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Venice’s many vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

Day 3: Verona

Take the train to Verona, a city famous for its Shakespearean connections. Visit Juliet’s House, where you can see the balcony that inspired Romeo and Juliet, and explore the beautiful historic center. Climb the Torre dei Lamberti for stunning views of the city before returning to Venice for the night.

Day 4: Murano, Burano, and Torcello

Take a boat tour to visit the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano is known for its glass-making tradition, and you can watch a demonstration by a master glassblower. Burano is famous for its colorful houses and lace-making, and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets. Torcello, the smallest and most ancient of the islands, is home to the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

Day 5-6: Florence

Take the train to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Spend two days visiting the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo’s David), and the Duomo. Climb to the top of the Bell Tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy an evening watching the sunset over the Arno River and sampling some delicious gelato.

Day 7: Pisa and Tuscany

Take a day trip to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. Visit a vineyard in the Tuscan countryside, where you can taste some amazing Chianti wine and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Day 8: Cinque Terre and Portovenere

Take a boat tour of the stunning Cinque Terre, a series of five picturesque fishing villages along the Ligurian coast. Visit Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the beautiful Church of San Pietro.

Day 9: Pompeii

Take the high-speed train to Naples and then a local train to Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Spend the day exploring the well-preserved ruins and imagining what life was like in ancient times.

Day 10-11: Amalfi Coast

Rent a car and drive along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, stopping in the charming towns of Positano and Amalfi. Visit the stunning Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, with its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the sea.

Day 12: Capri and Anacapri

Take a boat tour to the beautiful island of Capri and its quieter sister, Anacapri. Visit the Blue Grotto, a sea cave famous for its glowing blue waters. Spend the day exploring the island before returning to the mainland for the night. Also read: Hotels With Eiffel Tower View

Day 13: Naples

Spend a day in Naples, the birthplace of pizza. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses some of the best-preserved artifacts from Pompeii, and explore the historic center of the city. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian pizza for dinner before heading back to your hotel.

Day 14-15: Rome

Take the train to Rome, the Eternal City. Spend two days exploring the city, visiting the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Take a tour of the Vatican Museums, home to some of the world’s greatest art treasures, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Don’t miss the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the beautiful Piazza Navona.

Day 16: Homebound

Spend your final morning in Rome, enjoying a leisurely breakfast and taking a last stroll through the city’s charming streets. Depart for home in the afternoon, taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable trip to Italy.

Our 16-day trip to Italy was an unforgettable experience that exceeded our expectations. From the historic cities and picturesque towns to the breathtaking landscapes and delicious cuisine, we visited so many incredible places and met many welcoming locals. We feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity to explore Italy’s rich history and culture and create lifelong memories. We cannot wait to return and continue our adventures in this beautiful country.

Note: It is always recommended to book tickets in advance for popular tourist attractions to avoid waiting in long queues.