5 Day Italy Itinerary
A friend recently reached out for some advice on where she should go for her FIRST trip to Italy. She only had 5 days in April and was looking for a mix of culture, city-life, as well as some relaxation. I put together a simple guide which is super helpful for anyone who is planning this type of quick trip to Italy.
On your first trip to the county you want to maximize your time as much as possible
A friend recently reached out for some advice on where she should go for her FIRST trip to Italy. She only had 5 days in April and was looking for a mix of culture and city-life, as well as some relaxation. I’ve written a few posts on my past trips to Italy (here, here, here and here), but not yet about such a specific guide. Originally my friend had her heart set on the Amalfi Coast, which is truly an incredible place, however I did advise against it (due to the travel time). On your first trip to the county you want to maximize your time as much as possible, especially if you only have a short amount of time.
When planning your first 5 day trip, I think the biggest determining factor to consider is which airport you are flying into. For the sake of this post, and based on my recommendation this guide is based on flying into Milan (MXP). I’m going to assume you are leaving the US on Sunday night, and arriving Monday morning too 🙂
Milan Arrival:
Arrive into Milan on Monday AM
Take the Train from the Airport to Milan Centrale (~55 minutes)
Catch a train to Florence (1.5 hours) and spend 3 nights
Monday Night | Walk around, and have drinks at Torre Guelfa Hotel. There is an incredible rooftop that opens at 5pm. In my opinion it’s one of the best kept secrets. Once you’re satisfied with drinks and the beautiful views, head to Dinner @ 4 Leoni (make a reservation at LEAST 2 months ahead of time)
Tuesday | Book a trip into Tuscany to a winery
Wednesday | Spend the day walking around Florence. (Food and Drink ideas HERE)
Thursday AM | Check-out
Thursday AM take the train from Florence to Lake Como (you will need to transfer trains at Milan Centrale (roughly 2.5 hours total)
Stay in Varenna Thursday Night + Friday Night
Thursday | Enjoy a slow afternoon walking around Varenna. Have dinner at Varenna Cafe
Friday | Take an early Ferry into Bellagio and explore the small town. Visit Aperitivo Et Al
Friday Night | Dinner at Cavatappi (make reservations). If that is not available, check out Ristorante Du Lac.
Saturday AM | Have breakfast at Varenna Cafe; try their croissants! Leave for the airport.
Italy holds such a special place in my heart, and whenever I visit I feel so at home. I love answering any questions you have about Italy, so please always ask! I’ve been to most parts of the county, but am hoping to knock a few more places off this summer too! I hope this guide was helpful for those planning quick trips!
XO – With Love, Em
