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A two week trip to Italy is long enough to see a huge variety of sights but it is never going to be enough to see all of this beautiful country but it is certainly a start.
How to See Italy in 2 Weeks
Italy is a very beautiful country and a must-see when visiting Europe. In fact, you could spend a month or two happily eating and drinking your way around the stunning scenery and monuments. However, if you have just two weeks, this is a classic Italy itinerary and what I would try to pack in for an all-round family trip with teenagers.
I have visited Italy a total of 5 times but my husband has many more than that, as he often came over as a child to visit his Nona and uncle over the years. The time we visited Italy with our 2 boys the plan was to see as many of the main tourist sites as we could, as well as fit in visiting some Italy family. This itinerary has a little bit of everything and Italy is a fantastic family holiday destination.
A 14-Day Italy Itinerary
Day 1 – Rome
Day 2 – Rome
Day 3 – Pompeii/Sorrento
Day 4 – Assisi/Ravenna
Day 5 – Venice
Day 6 – Venice
Day 7 – Verona/Bergamo
Day 8 – Lake Como
Day 9 – Milan
Day 10 – Milan/Turin
Day 11 – Cinque Terre
Day 12 – Pisa/Florence
Day 13 – Florence/ San Gimignano
Day 14 – San Gimignano/Val di Chiana
Orieto & Back to Rome
Getting Around:
We thought the best way for our family to travel around Italy was to hire a campervan. It was a bit tight on some of the narrow roads but we loved it as a family of four. If you are not traveling with family or want to just drive and see how you go, then maybe you would rather hire a smaller car or go by train/bus. Most of Italy is accessible via public transport and the train stations are convenient. In the cities you could often hire a bike and bike ride around.
Where to Stay:
As we had the motorhome we mainly stayed in it and stayed at campsites around the country. On other trips to Italy, we stayed in hotels like the one in Venice before we went on our MSC Cruise. There are so many hotels or pensions available. We like to book with booking.com as it is trustworthy and has so many properties to choose from.
Make sure your accommodation is located in a convenient area. One that allows you to easily access all the attractions on your itinerary or at least close to public transport.
Another important factor to consider is the type of accommodation you prefer. Italy offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. If your family is animal mad, then maybe you want to have an animal encounter during your trip. You might want to consider staying in a countryside agriturismo or a farm stay. These often offer opportunities to interact with farm animals such as goats, chickens, and horses.
If you are traveling with a large or extended family, you might want to consider staying in an apartment or a villa. This will give you more space and privacy, and allow you to cook your own meals if you prefer. Many apartments and villas also have outdoor spaces where you can relax and the kids can enjoy the Italian sunshine.
Overall, choosing the right accommodation is key to having a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Italy. Take your time to research your options and find the perfect place to stay that suits your budget and preferences.
ROME
Historical Landmarks while Exploring Rome
When it comes to exploring Rome, there are plenty of historical landmarks to visit. I highly recommend visiting the Colosseum, which is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheater that was built in 80 AD and is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the Colosseum and the events that took place there.
Another historical landmark that you should visit is the Pantheon. The Pantheon is a former Roman temple that was built in 27 BC and is now a church. The Pantheon is known for its impressive dome. You can also visit the Vatican City, which is the smallest country in the world and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican City is home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.
Local Cuisine
When it comes to local cuisine, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try in Rome. Try to find restaurants just off the tourist beaten track to experience amazing local dishes. One popular dish is the pizza al taglio, which is a rectangular pizza that sold by the slice, so convenient when you don’t have the time to stop. You can also try the supplì, which is a deep-fried rice ball that is filled with cheese and tomato sauce.
For Two Days in Rome: A Journey through Time and Culture
Rome, the eternal capital of Italy, stands as a testament to centuries of history, art, and civilization. With two days at your disposal, you can immerse yourself in its iconic ruins, exquisite art, and vibrant neighbourhoods. This itinerary will guide you through the must-see attractions, culinary delights, and hidden gems that Rome has to offer. We hopped on the odd bus but most of the time we walked the streets as there was something new and amazing around every corner. Our boys dubbed their aching feet at the end of the day Roman Feet.
Day 1: Ancient Rome and Architectural Marvels
We stayed at Hotel Ponte Sisto once, which was in a fantastic location. Start your day in Trastevere, a charming neighbourhood. It is known for its narrow streets, artisan shops, and traditional trattorias. Explore the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere and soak in the local atmosphere.
Then begin your journey of ancient Rome at the Colosseum, the symbol of ancient Rome's grandeur. Explore its arches and passageways before heading to the Roman Forum. Here you can stroll through the remnants of temples and civic buildings.
Climb Palatine Hill to discover the imperial palaces and enjoy panoramic views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.
Visit the Capitoline Hill, home to Michelangelo's Piazza del Campidoglio and the Museums. Admire ancient sculptures, artworks, and the breath taking view of the Roman Forum.
Spend the evening at Piazza Navona Square and see the Trevi Fountain. Head to the Pantheon, an ancient temple turned church, to marvel at its dome and the oculus that lets in natural light. You can also visit the Piazza di Spagna, which is home to the famous Spanish Steps. The Spanish Steps are a great place to people watch and see the local street performers.
Day 2: Vatican City and Artistic Treasures
Spend your morning exploring the home to an exceptional collection of art and historical artefacts. Don't miss the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes are a masterpiece.
St. Peter's Basilica is a Renaissance masterpiece and one of the largest churches in the world. Climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome.
Conclude your day at Castel Sant'Angelo, a fortress that offers intriguing history and stunning vistas.
Conclude your Rome adventure with an enchanting evening stroll through the historic streets. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local trattoria, savoring Italian cuisine and reflecting on the rich experiences of the past two days.
If you have time head off to Sardinia Island to see Sardinia's Little Horses
One of the most unique animal encounters you can have in Italy is with the little horses of Sardinia. These adorable creatures are only about 1 meter tall and are native to the island of Sardinia. They have a long history on the island and are even mentioned in ancient Roman texts.
You can visit the Giara di Gesturi nature reserve which is a national park to see these little horses in their natural habitat. The reserve is home to around 600 horses and is a beautiful place to explore. We did not have the time to visit Sardinia but I hope to visit some day.
Travel south, past Naples to Pompeii
POMPEII
The city of Pompeii is famous because it was destroyed in 79 CE when a nearby volcano, Mount Vesuvius, erupted. It was completely covered in at least 19 feet (6 metres) of ash and other volcanic debris. The city's quick burial preserved it for centuries before its ruins were discovered in the late 16th century. It is a wonderful example of how people lived then.
Amalfi Coastline & Sorrento
This area is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful villages on the edges of the cliffs with steep and narrow streets. The town's steep slopes look out over azure waters to the islands of Ischia, Capri and the Bay of Naples. For a day tour to Capri you can book here.
The area is renowned for its plentiful seafood and Sorrento is the limoncello capital of Italy.
We then headed for a long day of travel back north to get to Venice, we stopped at Assisi for the night.
ASSISI
Assisi is famous for being the birthplace of Saint Francis, the patron saint of Italy.
We stopped to visit Italian family in Fongano on the route to Ravenna.
VENICE
We camped on the other side from Venice and took the ferry across
A day itinerary for Venice starts at the central square, Piazza San Marco and the beautiful St Marks Basilica. Walk around and get lost along the way. See the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and Ponte dell'Accademia.
When it comes to experiencing Venice, there are two must-do activities that everyone recommends. Taking a gondola ride and visiting a Venetian glassblowing factory.
Gondola Rides
One of the most iconic experiences in Venice is taking a gondola ride through the city's canals. While it may seem touristy, it's truly a unique and memorable experience that you won't regret. The gondoliers are skilled at guiding the gondola through the narrow canals. singing traditional Venetian songs,. it's a great way to see the city from a different perspective and take in the beautiful architecture and scenery.
Venetian Glassblowing
Venetian glassblowing is an art that has been practiced in Venice for centuries. Visiting a glassblowing factory is a great way to learn about the history and process of this beautiful craft. You can watch skilled artisans create intricate glass pieces right before your eyes. Some factories even offer hands-on workshops where you can try your hand at glassblowing yourself.
There are a lot of family hotels in Venice.
Lipican Horse Farm – out of the way
Another great animal encounter in Italy is a visit to a Lipican horse farm. These beautiful horses are known for their grace and elegance and have a long history in Italy. The Lipican horse farm in Trieste is one of the best places to see these horses up close.
At the farm, you can take a guided tour and learn about the history of the Lipican horse breed. You'll also get to see the horses in action, with demonstrations of dressage and other equestrian skills. It's a great way to spend an afternoon and get a taste of Italy's equestrian culture.
From Venice travel through Verona to Bergamo
Lake Como / Lake Garda
Lake Garda tends to be more budget-friendly and family-oriented. Lake Como is known to be more sophisticated and romantic.
We loved Lake Como, it was hair raising driving on the narrow roads but you can take ferry across the lake. There are lots of boat trips that you can take to get around easier.
Milan
Milan is a vibrant city in northern Italy and is the perfect destination for fashionistas, foodies, and art lovers.
Fashion and Shopping
Milan is known as the fashion capital of the world, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the most famous fashion brands in the world, including Prada, Gucci, and Armani. Via Montenapoleone is the most famous shopping street in Milan and is lined with luxury boutiques and designer stores. If you're looking for more affordable shopping options, head to Corso Buenos Aires, which is one of the longest shopping streets in Europe.
Milanese Food
Milanese cuisine is a must-try when visiting the city. One of the most famous Milanese dishes is risotto alla Milanese. It is a creamy saffron risotto that is often served with ossobuco, a slow-cooked veal shank. Another Milanese specialty is cotoletta alla Milanese, which is a breaded and fried veal cutlet. Be sure to try panettone, a sweet bread that is traditionally eaten during the Christmas season.
Milan is also a great place to try some unique animal encounters. You can visit the Parco Sempione, which is a large park in the center of Milan, and see some of the local wildlife. Or head to the Acquario Civico di Milano, which is a public aquarium that is home to over 100 different species of fish and other marine life.
Langhe near Alba
Go truffle hunting with a Trifolao and his truffle-hunting dog.
Drive South down through to Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is made up of 5 fishing villages perched atop the hills. The towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. This stunningly beautiful area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cars aren't allowed, so take local trains between the villages or ferries to go from town to town—or walk one of the spectacular trails that connect them.
You could also do a boat tour to admire the five villages from the sea. Get off in Monterosso or Vernazza and try a delicious gelato. Swim inside the natural park, in crystal clear waters. Visit the church of St. Pietro in Portovenere, one of the most beautiful in the world or swim around hidden caves. You might even get to see dolphins.
Pisa
Although Pisa is known worldwide for its leaning tower, the city contains more than twenty other historic churches. We did a walking tour around the city and seeing several medieval palaces.
Florence
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is a city that is rich in art and history. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy. Here are some suggestions for things to do while in Florence:
Florence is famous for its art and architecture. The city is home to many museums and galleries, including the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the most famous works of art in the world. The Duomo, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is another must-see attraction. The cathedral's dome is an architectural masterpiece and offers stunning views of the city. Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the Arno River.
Tuscan Wine Tasting
Tuscany is known for its wine, and Florence is the perfect place to indulge in some wine tasting. Many vineyards and wineries in the surrounding countryside offer tours and tastings. One of the most popular wine regions is Chianti, which is located just south of Florence. Here, you can sample some of the best wines in Italy while enjoying the beautiful Tuscan countryside. A treat for the adults and obviously not the kids, however there are often things the children can partake in too.
As well as art and wine, Florence also offers a variety of animal encounters. For example, you can visit the Boboli Gardens, which is home to a variety of animals, including peacocks, pheasants, and turtles. The gardens also offer stunning views of the city and are a great place to relax and unwind.
San Gimignano
small walled medieval hill town in the province of Siena, Tuscany, north-central Italy. Known as the Town of Fine Towers known as the "city of beautiful towers," had 72 towers in its heyday. Now 14 remain, and, rising above Tuscany's Elsa Valley
VAL DI CHIANA
One of the most popular animal encounters in Italy is visiting the Tuscan countryside to see the famous Chianina cattle at Val di Chiana
These majestic animals are the largest breed of cattle in the world and are known for their high-quality meat. You can visit a farm and see these beautiful creatures up close, as well as learn about the traditional methods used to raise and care for them.
Orvieto
Orvieto is one of the most striking, memorable, and enjoyable hill towns in central Italy. Less than 90 minutes from Rome, Orvieto sits high above the valley floor, ontop of volcanic stone, overlooking the Umbrian plains
Back to Rome
Understanding Italian Etiquettes
As a traveler, it is important to understand the local customs and etiquette of the country you are visiting. Italy is a country with a rich cultural heritage, you need to to be aware of some basic Italian etiquette to avoid any cultural faux pas.
Here are some Italian etiquettes that you should keep in mind:
Dress Appropriately
Italians are known for their sense of style, and they take great pride in their appearance. When visiting Italy, it is important to dress appropriately. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops when visiting churches, museums, or other religious sites. Instead, opt for conservative clothing such as long pants, dresses, or skirts that cover your knees.
Greetings
Italians are very social and love to greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks. However, this is usually reserved for close friends and family members. When meeting someone for the first time, a simple handshake and a smile will suffice.
Eating and Drinking
Italians take their food seriously, and they have a particular way of eating and drinking. When dining out, avoid ordering a cappuccino after 11 am as it is considered a breakfast drink. Also, never ask for parmesan cheese to put on your seafood pasta as it is considered a culinary sin.
Animal Encounters
Italy is home to various wildlife species, including wolves, lynx, and bears. However, these animals are not commonly encountered by tourists. One animal that you are likely to encounter is the Italian cat. These cats are often seen lounging around in piazzas and alleyways. While they may seem friendly, it is best to avoid touching or feeding them as they may carry diseases.
By following these basic etiquettes, you will be able to enjoy your trip to Italy without offending the locals.
Packing Essentials
When it comes to packing for a two-week trip to Italy, it's important to strike a balance between being prepared and not overpacking. Here are some packing essentials that I always bring with me on my trips to Italy:
Clothing
Italy has a diverse climate, so it's important to pack for the season and the regions you'll be visiting. bring comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing, and layers for cooler evenings. A light rain jacket or umbrella can also come in handy.
toiletries in Italy, it's always helpful to bring travel-sized versions of your favorite products. Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and any prescription medications you may need.
Electronics
Italy uses the Europlug, so make sure to bring a universal adapter if you plan on using electronics. I also recommend bringing a portable charger, camera, and any other electronics you may need.
Miscellaneous
Other items to bring include a reusable water bottle, a small backpack or tote bag for day trips, and a money belt or pouch to keep your valuables safe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Italy is an incredible destination to visit, and two weeks is the perfect amount of time to see some of the best sights. From exploring the ancient ruins of Rome to hiking in the stunning Cinque Terre, there is something for everyone in Italy.
I highly recommend visiting Italy for family travel or anyone looking for a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. With so much to see and do, two weeks is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of Italy.
