If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Italy, you’ve probably heard of Rick Steves and his famous itineraries. They’re kind of like a cheat sheet for travelers who want to experience the best of Italy without getting overwhelmed. Let me walk you through what Rick Steves suggests for an Italy itinerary and why I think it’s a great way to go.
First off, Rick’s plan usually spans about two weeks, which is the perfect amount of time to get a real taste of Italy. His itinerary covers the big cities but also gives you a chance to explore some of the smaller, charming spots.
Days 1-3: Rome
You kick off in Rome. The Eternal City is a great place to start because it’s packed with history—think the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican. Rick Steves is big on seeing the highlights but also finding time to wander. So, after ticking off those iconic spots, make sure to stroll around the little side streets, grab a gelato, and just soak in the vibe. Don’t forget the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain too!
Days 4-5: Florence
Next up is Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. It’s a smaller city compared to Rome, but it’s bursting with art and culture. Rick suggests diving into the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Michelangelo and Botticelli. And of course, don’t miss climbing the Duomo for an amazing view of the city. One of Rick’s tips is to take it slow and appreciate Florence’s art, food, and the stunning Tuscan countryside.
Days 6-7: Venice
After Florence, Venice is your next stop. Now, Venice is one of those places that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s all about canals, gondolas, and getting a little lost (in a good way!). Rick Steves suggests avoiding the super touristy stuff like expensive gondola rides (unless that’s your thing) and instead just wandering through the quieter parts of the city. And definitely visit St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.
Days 8-9: Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre is a stretch of five villages along the Italian Riviera, and it’s one of Rick’s favorite spots. The views here are stunning, with colorful houses perched on cliffs above the sea. Hiking between the villages is a must if you’re up for it, or you can just relax and enjoy the scenery. Rick’s advice? Take it slow—this place is all about enjoying the simple pleasures.
Days 10-12: Tuscany
After soaking up the coast, head back inland to explore Tuscany. Rick often recommends renting a car here so you can drive through the rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves. You can stop in small towns like Siena or San Gimignano, which feel like they’re straight out of a postcard. This part of the trip is all about wine, food, and beautiful countryside views.
Days 13-14: Back to Rome or Naples
Finally, you can either loop back to Rome for your flight out or if you’ve got extra time, Rick sometimes suggests heading south to Naples and Pompeii. Naples can be a bit gritty, but the pizza is unbeatable, and Pompeii is just fascinating to explore if you’re into ancient history.
Rick Steves’ Italy itinerary is all about finding the balance between seeing the big, famous sights and taking time to relax and soak in the everyday beauty of Italy. It’s not a checklist of must-sees but more of a thoughtful way to experience the country. Plus, his tips on avoiding tourist traps and connecting with the local culture make the trip even more special.
So, if you’re planning a trip, this itinerary could be a great starting point. You’ll hit the highlights, but you’ll also have the freedom to take your time and really enjoy Italy. Trust me, you won’t regret it!