Ten days is ideal for a first trip to Italy: enough time for the monuments of Rome, the Renaissance heart of Florence, and the canals of Venice without rushing. This route follows the classic north-south line and connects the three cities on the Frecciarossa and Italo high-speed trains, so most travel days are two to three hours between stops, city centre to city centre. Prefer a longer trip? Add Naples as an easy day trip or overnight from Rome, or start in Milan and run the line the other way.
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Frequently asked questions
Is 10 days enough for Italy?
Yes. Ten days comfortably covers the Rome, Florence and Venice triangle with time for a day trip such as Naples or the Tuscan hills, which is why it is one of the most common first-trip lengths.
What is the best order for Rome, Florence and Venice?
Most travelers start in Rome, head north to Florence, then finish in Venice, since it follows the high-speed line one way and lets you fly home from Venice. Running it the other way from Milan or Venice works just as well.
How long is the train from Rome to Florence?
About 1 hour 35 minutes on a direct Frecciarossa or Italo. Florence to Venice is about 2 hours 5 minutes to 2h15 on the same high-speed trains.
Should I add Naples or Milan to the trip?
Naples is an easy day trip or overnight from Rome at about 1h10 each way by fast train, great for pizza and Pompeii. Starting in Milan instead lets you run the same line southbound and adds a night of design and aperitivo.
When is the best time to visit Italy?
Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) have the best weather and thinner crowds. July and August are hot and busy, so book hotels and trains early if you travel then.
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