4 Itinerary Ideas for 1 Week in Italy: Classic, Sicily, Amalfi, Alps

Italy is famous for its abundant history, culture, art, and gourmet food. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, art and cultural achievement in Italy during this period is reflected in paintings, literature, operas, and architecture. It is a place where you can see the glamorous past of Europe. But it is more than that!

7 days in Italy need to be arranged well enough to see all the essential parts of this wonderful country. Here we provide 4 itinerary ideas in distinct styles to inspire you. Including a classic cultural and historical tour, an incredible vacation to Sicily islands, an exploration of dramatic southern Italy, and an adventure to the Northern Alps.

Itinerary#1: Classical Essence of Venice, Florence & Rome

Passionate, romantic, exquisite, and full of inspiration, this 7-day itinerary satisfies your imagination of Italy. Get on this time machine to go back through the medieval period. Communicate with Michelangelo by looking up at the David statue in Florence, pretend to be ancient Roman to walk through the ruin of the Colosseum and feel the river of time flow in the lights and shadows, and walk in the San Marco Basilica to closely observe the elegant Byzantium architecture.

Rome is a sprawling metropolis famous for its ancient ruins, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum. 2 Days in Rome to explore the old story of this ancient city.

Located in the heart of Rome, the Vatican is considered a must-visit place. Explore this tiny city with numerous masterpieces and cultural relics. Visit one of the biggest museums in the world - the Vatican Museum, to closely look at Michelangelo's and in the Sistine Chapel.

Florence is elegant, elaborate, and has an ambiance of literature and art. Explore the grand Duomo with its iconic Brunelleschi dome, and climb to the top of the clock tower to appreciate the whole view of this splendid city. And delve into the Uffizi Gallery, get lost in the bewildering arrays of masterpieces of those genius artists.

Ah! Venice, city of canals. Picture yourself in the medieval century, sitting in a water taxi to get around this tiny but delicate city. You may be impressed by the Doge's Palace for its unique Gothic architectural style. Get through the bridge of sighs and listen to the romanticized notion of this bridge.

Moreover, you can spend one day exploring the Murano and Burano islands off the coast of Venice. Murano Islands is famous for its glassmaking tradition. There are plenty of glass factories, shops, and museums for you to learn the history of glassmaking in the Murano islands. Burano islands have colorful houses along the canal and you can see it far away from the islands.

Farewell to Italy after an abundant harvest of art, culture, and history.

Colosseum

Itinerary#2: Sicily Discovery - Cefalu & Mount Etna

Sicily is an island located in the south of Italy, the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. It has abundant historical sites, cultural heritages, and natural landscapes. Wandering in the medieval towns to see the exquisite architecture and shops in those interesting shops in the old streets. Spend one day appreciating the incredible Mount Etna, walking on the unique surface of this living volcano just like walking on the moon. 7 days in Sicily is way too short to deeply explore this beautiful island but enough for you to indulge in the beauty of Southern Italy.

Arriving at the airport in Palermo, you can get a rest or walk around Palermo to explore the history of this town. The Vucciria Night Market is one of the best choices for your nightlife if you are looking for some local authentic gourmets.

On the second day, venture to Segesta Archeological Park, and enter Zingaro Nature Park from Scopello after having lunch in this town. Delve into the ancient Greek-style temple in Segesta Archeological Park, and see these splendid historical ruins dating back to the 15th century BC. Escape from the city to Zingaro Nature Reserve to enjoy the serene and tranquil in this paradise of scenic natural views. Swimming in the clean and blue water, sunbathing in the warm sunshine, and scuba diving to see the rich marine life.

The third day in Sicily is to immerse yourself in the charm of the medieval towns: Cefalu and Monreale. Strolling around Cefalu to see Byzantine architecture, sunbathe on the beach of Cefalu, and enjoy a leisure time of coffee or cocktail. Feel the vibrant and hospitable Sicily in a local market. Don't miss Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in this town. Admiring the Byzantine mosaics, hearing the story of this splendid Duomo, listening to the whisper of portraits of saints, and just standing in history.

The fourth day is in Agrigento. A walking tour in Agrigento brings you to the ancient Greeks to see the magnificent Temples of Valley. This is one of the biggest ancient archeological parks in the whole of Europe.

The fifth day in Sicily is to Taormina, the Pearl of the Ionian Sea. See the unique wonderful landscape of Isola Bella (which means beautiful island in English), enjoy leisure time on the beach, and get yourself totally relaxed in this beautiful place. Remember to visit the Teatro Antico di Taormina to appreciate these elegant ancient Greek ruins.

And in the sixth day, you will have a chance to explore Mount Etna and a wine tour in Catania. You can choose a moderate trail to hike or ride a cable car to climb the volcano and appreciate the ancient lava flows and craters. Then discover the flavors of wine in an exclusive typical winery in Catania.

On the final day in Catania, you can arrange your free time in this village to explore its charm. Then take a flight from Catania Airport to go back home.

Itinerary#3: Southern Italy Exploration - Pompeii & Almafi Coast

When it comes to Southern Italy, you cannot miss the ancient ruins of Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast! This 7-day route in the southern part of Italy includes Pompeii exploration, a Naples city walk, a visit to the beautiful villages of Amalfi Coast, a day tour to Capri, and diverse activities you can choose from. No matter if you are interested in the natural landscape, historical sites, or leisure beach holidays, this itinerary can satisfy you all.

Get from Rome to Naples and attend a cooking class in the afternoon if you are interested. On the way, you can stop to visit the royal residence that revolutionized world architecture: Reggia di Caserta - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make an authentic Italian pizza at a historical pizzeria in Naples, and of course, taste your splendid work!

Visit the archaeological park of Pompeii to hear the tale of this ancient city. It was buried by the lava of Vesuvius in 79 AD. However, the city was well-preserved due to the special volcanic eruption. Walking in the city, you can see how ancient houses were built and how ancient people's daily life was. If Rome and Florence show you how extravagant and glamorous the life of aristocracy was, Pompeii brings you back to ancient times to see how normal people worked and lived. And you can even see how they react to the moment of eruption.

Explore romantic Naples, and spend half a day walking around the most beautiful sites of this city, including Piazza del Plebiscito, San Carlo Theater, Maschio Angioino, Spaccanapoli, and San Gregorio Armeno. Then delve into Maiori, the picturesque village of Amalfi Coast. See the vibrant colorful houses and take some incredible photographs. Wandering along the beach and drinking a cup of coffee in the afternoon.

Continue exploring the Amalfi Coast. In the morning, attend a classic lemon tour in Amalfi town. Embracing the aroma of Mediterranean lemon, and tasting the lemon dessert made by the host of the farm. Then head to Positano to appreciate the cute town built on the cliff by the sea. Take some Instagram-style photos in front of the whole town on the beach - Spiaggia Grande. This beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Europe, you may have seen the landscape here appear on the postcard and some of the paintings.

Capri is famous for its fascinating landscape, luxury resorts, and the Blue Grotto. Spend one day exploring Capri by boat. The Blue Grotto is the most popular site of Capri, it is blue because of the reflection of seawater. Wandering around the Gardens of Augustus and don't miss the pink sunset here. Then go shopping in Anacapri town. There are many tiny exquisite shops here. At night, rest in the Hotel of Sorrento.

Final day, explore Sorrento or leave for Rome's day tour because your holiday will end in Rome. Farewell, Italy!

Amalfi Coast

Itinerary#4: Northern Italy Adventure With Alps

This one-week adventure to Northern Italy provides you with a different Italy from your imagination. Venture to Brenta Dolomites to see the breathtaking landscapes, and see the dramatic peaks and towers in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn the culture and history of local people in Malga, adrenaline rafting in Noce River, and hiking in Five Lake Refuge. This route can be taken from June to September for some of the activities can only participate in this period. The best times for Northern exploration are from mid-June to mid-July and the first half of September, avoiding high temperatures and rainfalls.

On the first day, leave Venice to get to the hotel in Madonna di Campiglio and get prepared for the Alps!

Embark your hiking in Adamello-Brenta Nature Park with a mountain guide. Brenta Dolomites are part of Adamello-Brenta Natural Park, one of the largest protected areas in the Italian Alps.

You will see the dramatic lakes with different colors at different altitudes, appreciate the lush forest covering the steep walls and the Val di Genova is just nestled between. Hiking in the breathtaking landscape and hearing the sound of rushing rivers, embracing the scent of nature. Enjoy your time to communicate with the world.

E-Biking to the roads and trails of Val D'Agola to see the incredible Valagola Lake. Feel the wind and scent of the vast forest embracing and company with you during the 27 km riding. Rest in the huts when arriving at Valagola Lake, take your time with the beautiful scenery.

Spend a morning in Malaga learning the story of mountain life, and seeing how dwellers make mountain cheeses and yogurts. Taste these handmade authentic dairy products and feel the aroma of Alpine.

The Noce River is one of the 10 top white waters in the world, known for its tumultuous waters and breathtaking landscape. You will receive a theoretical introduction and an aquatics test. After this, you can start your exciting rafting on the Noce River. Launch yourself through rapid flows and splashing water, focus on nothing but the adrenaline-filled rafting, and feel free.

Don't miss the lakes of the Alps. Ride a cable car from Madonna di Campiglio to the Five Lakes Refuge, to start a picturesque mountain trail from there. Discovering several lakes of glacial origin, seeing the blue sky reflect on the water. These lakes are just like the pearl on the crown of the Alps and you will be impressed by the beauty along the trail.

Time to go home with all these beautiful landscapes and all the happy times in mind. Head to Venice and leave from there to go home. You can enjoy a fine lunch and a cup of coffee in Venice.

Dolomites

Contact Us to Customize Your Private Italy Tours

Cultural, historical, natural, and adventurous, Italy is a country full of variety. If these four sample itineraries don't satisfy your requirements perfectly, why not contact our travel expert to design a private Italy tour just for you?