10 Days in Italy: Rome and Florence, from the Colosseum to the Vatican

About USD 2,920 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 10 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.

Travelers from the US, UK, Australia, and many other nations can enter Italy for tourism for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Citizens of some countries, including India, must obtain a Schengen visa before travel. Always check the current entry requirements for your specific passport on the official Italian government portal before you book.

Both cities are generally safe, but keep your head on a swivel in crowded areas like the Santa Maria Novella station in Florence or near the Colosseum in Rome. Pickpockets operate in tourist hotspots and on public buses. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m.

Always confirm the price with the driver before you depart. Some drivers may claim their credit card reader is broken to force a cash payment, so carry small bills and be prepared to push back if the card machine is suddenly unavailable. Using official taxi ranks rather than hailing cars on the street helps.

Rome has an efficient metro system that covers major sites, and staying near Roma Termini makes transit easier. In Florence, most sights are walkable, but be cautious with bus tickets and ensure they are validated. Taxis are available but expensive for long trips.

Tipping is not mandatory or expected in Italy as it is in the US. You might see a small service fee, known as a coperto, added to your bill, which covers bread and table setting. Feel free to leave a few coins or round up if the service was exceptional, but large tips are not required.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will likely cover many kilometers on cobblestone streets. Pack modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for visits to churches like Saint Peter's Basilica or the Duomo. A light jacket is useful for chilly evenings in autumn or spring.

Aim for late spring or early autumn to avoid the peak summer heat and the most intense tourist crowds. Visiting in February can be more affordable, though you will need to pack warmer layers. Be aware that major events, like a Jubilee year in Rome, can lead to significantly higher visitor numbers.

Never accept friendship bracelets, necklaces, or roses offered as gifts, as the person will demand payment once you take them. Ignore anyone asking you to sign petitions or offering help with luggage. Simply keep walking and avoid engagement if someone approaches you with an unsolicited item.