Dreaming of exploring Italy’s vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and stunning landscapes while sticking to a budget? You’re in the right place. This three-week itinerary will guide you through Italy’s must-see destinations, providing tips on how to enjoy the experience without breaking the bank. Whether it’s Rome’s ancient ruins, the Tuscany vineyards, or Venice’s canals, this journey promises adventure, culture, and delicious cuisine.
Your 3-week Italy itinerary starts in Rome, where a three-day stay allows you to soak in its rich history and culture on a budget of around €50 per day for attractions and food. Next, head to Florence and the picturesque Cinque Terre for stunning views and art, allocating approximately €60 daily for museum entries and local dining. To maximize your experience while staying on budget, consider purchasing city passes for discounts on transportation and entrance fees.
For the final leg of your trip, immerse yourself in the beauty of Venice for two memorable days. Accommodation and gondola rides cost an average of €70 per day.
Plan to use trains and buses throughout your journey, which are cost-effective and efficient ways to travel across Italy. By carefully planning your accommodations, dining in local trattorias, and utilizing public transportation, you can keep your total trip expenditure to about €2,000, excluding flights.
Italy Comprehensive 3-Week Itinerary on a Budget
Venice: The City of Canals (Days 1-3)
Your adventure in Venice begins with a day filled with iconic sights. Start by visiting Piazza San Marco, where you’ll find the beautiful Basilica of Saint Mark. Don’t miss the chance to climb St. Mark’s Campanile for panoramic views.
In the afternoon, take a gondola ride through the Grand Canal. It’s a quintessential Venetian experience.
- Breakfast: €8-€12
- Entry to Basilica: Free
- Campanile: €10
- Gondola ride: ~€80 (shared among six persons)
Day 2 should include exploring the Doge’s Palace and crossing the Bridge of Sighs. Wander through the narrow streets to the Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in the world. For lunch, enjoy cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at the local bacari.
In the afternoon, visit the Accademia Gallery for an impressive collection of Venetian art.
Budget Breakdown:
- Doge’s Palace: €25
- Lunch: €15
- Accademia Gallery: €12
On Day 3, take a train and head to the islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its glass-making workshops, while Burano is known for its colorful houses and lace-making traditions.
Spend the morning in Murano and the afternoon in Burano, browsing artisan shops and enjoying the unique architecture.
Budget Breakdown:
- Train to Murano/Burano: €15 (daily pass)
- Lunch in Burano: €20-€30
- Souvenirs: €20
Enjoy your time in Venice as you discover its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance (Days 4-6)
Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: €60/night
- Meals: €25/day
- Attractions: €25/day
- Transportation: €10/day
Day 4: Arrival and Introduction
Arrive in Florence by train from your previous destination. Settle into your accommodation. Begin your exploration by walking along the historic streets. Marvel at the architecture of the Duomo and climb its dome for an amazing view of the city.
Day 5: Art and Culture
Start your day at the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Botticelli and Leonardo. Next, visit the Accademia Gallery to admire Michelangelo’s David.
For lunch, enjoy authentic Tuscan pasta at a local trattoria. In the afternoon, walk along the Arno River and cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge.
See Related: Tuscany vs Sicily: Which Italian Paradise Is Right for Your Dream Vacation?
Day 6: Day Trip to Tuscany
Take a day trip to nearby Tuscan towns like Pisa or Siena. There, you can explore the wine regions and beautiful landscapes of Tuscany.
Enjoy wine tasting and try regional food like basil-infused dishes in San Gimignano. Return to Florence in the evening.
Florence offers a harmonious blend of history, architecture, and rich art, making it a vital stop in your Italy itinerary. Enjoy the local fashion, relax with a glass of wine, and savor every bite of pasta as you embrace the Renaissance heritage.
Cinque Terre: Coastal Charm (Days 7-8)
Spending a few days in Cinque Terre during your trip to Italy offers a beautiful escape along the Ligurian coast. You’ll explore charming villages, enjoy delightful food, and admire breathtaking seascapes.
Exploring the Five Villages
Start your two-day journey by visiting Riomaggiore, your base village. It’s an eight-minute train ride from La Spezia. Walk through narrow alleys, and don’t miss the evening light over the harbor.
On the second day, travel by train to Manarola. This village is famous for its picturesque scenery and delicious Limoncello. Next, head to Corniglia—the one village not directly on the sea—where you can hike and take in panoramic views.
Stop by Vernazza for its quaint harbor and colorful houses nestled by the sea. The last village, Monterosso, features beautiful beaches and historic churches.
| Expense | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Train fare (2 days) | 33 |
| Meals & Drinks (2 days) | 50-60 |
| Accommodation (2 days) | 100-150 |
| Miscellaneous | 20 |
| Total | 203-263 |
Rome: The Eternal City (Days 9-12)
Day 9: Arrival and Afternoon Exploration
Arrive in Rome and settle into your accommodation. Focus on exploring the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk and dinner at a local trattoria.
Budget:
- Accommodation: €50-€100 (per night)
- Dinner: €15-€30
Day 10: Historic Highlights
Start your day by visiting the Colosseum. Pre-book tickets to avoid long lines. Next, head to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
After lunch in the Monti neighborhood, visit the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.
Budget:
- Colosseum and Forum Tickets: €18
- Lunch: €10-€20
- Dinner: €15-€30
Day 11: Vatican City
Dedicate the day to exploring Vatican City. Begin with an early morning tour that covers the museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Relax in the Vatican Gardens or visit nearby Castel Sant’Angelo in the afternoon.
Budget:
- Vatican Tour: €30-€50
- Lunch: €10-€20
- Dinner: €15-€30
Day 12: Leisure and Local Delights
Spend your final day in Rome enjoying the local pace. Visit the Pantheon and enjoy a pizza lunch in Campo de’ Fiori.
Use the afternoon for a leisurely bus tour of the city’s landmarks.
Budget:
- Pantheon Entrance: Free
- Lunch: €10-€15
- Bus Tour: €10-€20
- Dinner: €15-€30
Transportation Costs:
- Bus/Metro Tickets: €1.50 per ride or €7 for a daily pass
See Related: Must See Ancient Roman Ruins in Rome, Italy
Positano: A Slice of Paradise (Days 13-14)
Day 13: Exploring Positano
Spend your first day in Positano soaking up the charm of the Amalfi Coast. Start with a stroll through the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and vibrant boutiques.
Activity Costs:
- Street Shopping: Free to browse, or around €20-€50 for souvenirs.
- Lunch by the Sea: Expect to spend about €15-€30 per person.
After lunch, head to Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, for a perfect afternoon of sunbathing and swimming. Capture the iconic cliffside views.
Beach Costs:
- Beach Access: Free public areas or €15-€20 for a sunbed.
- Refreshments: Gelato and limoncello will cost around €5-€10.
Dinner Recommendation: Conclude your day with a meal at Chez Black, a local favorite. Budget about €30-€50 per person.
Day 14: Amalfi and Capri Excursion
Start early with a boat tour to Amalfi and Capri. These tours often include a stop at the Blue Grotto, known for its mesmerizing blue waters.
Boat Tour Costs:
- Full-day Boat Tour: Prices range from €60-€120 per person, including stops at multiple locations.
Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and cafes of Amalfi. Enjoy some local dishes, and don’t miss out on trying more gelato.
Amalfi Costs:
- Lunch in Amalfi: Around €15-€25 per person.
- Shopping for Souvenirs: Budget €20-€40.
Return to Positano in the evening and savor your last sunset on the Amalfi Coast.
Dinner Recommendation: Opt for a local trattoria where you can dine economically, around €20-€30 per person.
Enjoy the beautiful beaches, taste authentic limoncello, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of Positano.
See Related: Best Beach Towns in Italy: Must-Visit Coastal Gems for Your Next Getaway
Palermo: The Cultural Melting Pot (Days 15-17)
Welcome to Palermo, a city that epitomizes Sicily’s rich cultural diversity. Start your exploration by visiting the Palermo Cathedral, a remarkable blend of architectural styles. Admire the mosaics and intricate designs that tell the city’s storied past.
Wander through Ballarò Market, a vibrant hub where you can experience the lively street food scene. Indulge in local favorites like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters).
For history enthusiasts, the Palazzo dei Normanni is a must-see. This historical site offers a glimpse into the Norman influence on Palermo. Don’t miss the Cappella Palatina within the palace, adorned with stunning mosaics.
Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €50-€80/night |
| Meals | €10-€20/meal |
| Sightseeing | €15-€30/day |
| Local Transport | €5-€10/day |
| Miscellaneous | €10-€20/day |
Strolling through the Vucciria Market is another way to soak up the local culture. The market’s bustling environment and eclectic offerings make it a sensory delight.
Consider using an Italian SIM card for seamless connectivity when planning your stay. It can be purchased upon arrival in Italy, ensuring you stay connected as you navigate Palermo.
Spending three days in Palermo allows you to deeply appreciate its unique mix of history, architecture, and gastronomy. Explore, eat, and immerse yourself in this Sicilian gem.
Naples: Historical and Culinary Delight (Days 18-21)
Day 18: Exploring the Heart of Naples
Begin your journey in Naples with a hop-on, hop-off city tour. You can explore the coastal and historic routes with a 24-hour ticket (€22). Visit the Galleria Umberto I for some shopping. Have lunch at Gran Caffè Gambrinus and try traditional Neapolitan coffee and a pastry.
Budget for Day 18:
- City tour: €22
- Lunch at Gran Caffè Gambrinus: €15-€20
- Souvenirs and shopping: €30-€50
Day 19: Pompeii and Ancient Ruins
Explore the ancient ruins on a day trip to Pompeii. A train from Naples to Pompeii costs around €5, and entry to Pompeii is €16.
Consider a guided tour (€12) for a deeper insight. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a local pizzeria back in Naples, like Di Matteo, famous for its traditional pizza.
Budget for Day 19:
- Train to Pompeii: €5
- Pompeii entry: €16
- Guided tour: €12
- Dinner at Di Matteo: €15
Day 20: Ercolano and Mt. Vesuvius
Visit the nearby Ercolano (Herculaneum) (€13 entry) and then head to Mt. Vesuvius using a shuttle service (€10). A hike up Vesuvius offers stunning views and costs another €10 for entry. Enjoy a leisurely evening with some Neapolitan street food back in Naples.
Budget for Day 20:
- Train to Ercolano: €3
- Ercolano entry: €13
- Shuttle to Mt. Vesuvius: €10
- Vesuvius entry: €10
- Street food: €10-€15
Day 21: Museums and Culinary Delights
Spend your final day at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (€15 entry) and other local museums. Have lunch at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, another iconic spot for pizza. Finish your day with a stroll along the Naples waterfront, enjoying the views and gelato.
Budget for Day 21:
- Museum entry: €15
- Lunch at da Michele: €20
- Gelato: €5
Total Estimated Budget: €246-€291
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