Europe is a wonderful continent that boasts a plethora of different countries and cultures. However, Italy is a unique and beautiful country that offers diversity like no other. So if you’re going to pick just one place for your next trip, this is a fantastic option.
Whether backpacking on your own, with friends or as a couple doesn’t matter. Italy’s good transport links can allow you to see the best of what it has to offer without the need for a pre-booked package. Better still, we’ve put together a 7-stop itinerary that’s perfect for an extended month break. Or if your stay is a little shorter cut some out on the way.
San Angelo Bridge and Saint Peters basilica
Rome (And The Vatican)
No trip to Italy is complete without visiting the capital. Not only is it one of the most beautiful places on Italian soil, but it’s also one of the most historic places on earth. Getting lost among the monuments, galleries, and other cultural elements is easily done. When the weather is nice, you simply wouldn’t want to be anywhere else on earth.
Whether you’re religious or not, heading to the Vatican is another essential element. It’s the smallest state on earth and is one of the most iconic venues too. Being so close to the Sistine Chapel without seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece would be a missed opportunity.
Piazza Cordusio
Milan
Heading north to one of the fashion capitals of the world, Milan is another popular destination for visitors. As well as the plethora of great shops and cafes, the city boasts one of Italy’s great sporting rivalries between Inter and AC. Even if you’re not a sports fan, a tour of the San Siro stadium will blow your mind. Moreover, it saves you the need for visiting Turin, which has nothing to offer aside from Juventus and Torino.
It’s probably not a place to spend any longer than three or four days. Nonetheless, it’s well worth adding to the itinerary. Of course, if you’re planning to do huge amounts of shopping, you may want to reverse this cycle so that this step comes last. Another good thing about this idea is the accessible international flights.
Venice
Venice
Travel is all about gaining new experiences, and Venice is a unique destination that carries a charm like no other place on earth. Therefore, heading east to the Veneto region is well advised. The small islands, linked by canals and bridges, provide something different to anywhere else you’ve ever been. Meanwhile, taking a gondola ride is one of those bucket list items that we’ve all visioned at least once in our lives.
Venice also boasts plenty of art and culture while the luxurious hotels create the perfect vibe for romantic couples. In addition to those wonderful experiences, you’ll be sure to get some incredible photos to remember those moments too. What more could you ever ask for?
Modena
A lot of travelers would choose Bologna as their next stop off. However, Modena would be our choice for stop number four, and the main reason for this is food and drink. Every perfect vacation should offer the chance to delight your tastebuds. A balsamic vinegar tour is the perfect way to do just that in style. Moreover, you can even buy some items to bring the taste of Italy back home.
Modena has plenty more to offer its visitors too. The Ferrari museum can be coupled with a driving experience day. Given the beauty of the surrounding areas, as well as the sheer adrenaline of driving a supercar, it’s another moment that you’ll never forget.
Republic of San Marino
Rimini (And San Marino)
The opportunity to tick another country off of the bucket list is one that every traveler should take. When traveling through northern Italy, a day trip to the microstate of San Marino is the ideal option. However, the tiny nation only covers 60 km2, so a few hours in Serravalle should suffice. Therefore, doubling it up with Rimini is advised.
Rimini itself isn’t a massive place either. But a few days on the beach is the perfect way to break up your trip, especially if you are away for a long time. Meanwhile, it does have a few notable bars for nightlife too. Essentially, though, using this as a pit-stop and a chance to see another country is the ideal solution.
Bari, Italy
Bari
The seven-hour train ride to Bari may feel daunting, but the scenic route is truly incredible. Just remember to take snacks on board with you, and it will soon fly by. Once you arrive in Bari, you’ll be able to embrace biking tours, beaches, and museums galore. It’s additionally home to a number of noteworthy architecture too.
There are plenty of other things to do, whether it’s visiting planetariums or eating at wonderful restaurants. If you have a few days to kill, you could additionally take the ferry across the Adriatic Sea into Albania too. However, that one is an optional extra.
Naples, Italy
Naples
Naples is an industrial town that often gets a bad reputation. In truth, though, it’s a great place to visit en route back to Rome. Moreover, it gives you a chance to take a day trip to historical Pompeii too. Even if you don’t take that trip, Naples is a location bursting with cultural importance.
Whether it’s sport, music, or the arts, you’ll never be bored. However, the one attraction that nobody should miss is underground Naples. The labyrinth of tunnels and cavities creates a city underneath the ground. It’s a unique experience that no visitor ever forgets, which is why it’s a guaranteed addition for the itinerary.
After finishing Naples, you can head back up to Rome to finish your trip with a few more days in the capital before heading home. Alternatively, carry on north to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa before heading back to Rome. Either way, that Italian adventure will give you a chance to see some of the best that the whole of Europe has to offer. Enjoy.
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What a great article! It makes me long for Italy so much!