Italy in 12 Days: 4 Recommended 12-day Itineraries to Italy

A 12-day trip to Italy offers ample time to explore its iconic landmarks and hidden gems. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the rolling hills of Tuscany, our recommended 12-day itineraries provide a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty to inspire your Italian adventure. Check out some of our Italy 12 days itinerary ideas below.

This is the best 12-day Italy itinerary if you want to immerse yourself in the rich history, art, and cuisine of this enchanting country, starting in Venice, with its labyrinthine canals and iconic gondolas, and ending with a romantic stroll along the Tiber River in Rome. During this unforgettable adventure, you will travel to the Romagna region for a serene countryside retreat, then explore Ravenna's Byzantine mosaics or indulge in a hands-on cooking class. Visit the historic Republic of San Marino perched atop Mount Titano before diving into Emilia's culinary delights at a vocational school. Continue to Florence, the “Cradle of Renaissance”, and traverse the ancient Etruscan landscapes of southern Tuscany, before concluding your Italy tour in Rome, where you will explore ancient catacombs, Baroque churches, and the vibrant Trastevere district's culinary delights.

Experience the essence of Italy’s cultural and culinary delights on an unforgettable 12-day Italy tour, beginning in the serene Lake Maggiore before journeying through the Italian Riviera, exploring Stresa and beyond. Marvel at the colorful villages of Cinque Terre and venture to Carrara’s marble quarries by off-road vehicle. Enjoy a peaceful stay in a Tuscan villa, where you will get to prepare local cuisine during a hands-on cooking class and spend a rejuvenating afternoon before hitting the road again the next morning. Next, discover Florence's Renaissance marvels and Bologna’s picturesque portici, before concluding your Italy adventure in the canal city of Venice. See all culture trip packages in Italy.

Embark on a cycling adventure through the captivating landscapes of Italy, beginning in Matera's UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient cave dwellings, and ending in Leece, the “Florence of the South.” Pedal through olive groves, towering limestone cliffs, and Roman amphitheaters, and discover the white city of Ostuni, the majestic castle of Otranto, and the coastal gem of Gallipoli. Traverse the landscapes rich in history and natural beauty, from the hot springs of Santa Cesarea Terme to the karst formations of Castellana Caves and the picturesque Valle d'Itria. Don’t forget to experience Puglia's unique culture and cuisine, sampling local wines and indulging in traditional specialties like orecchiette con le cime di rapa, taralli, and puccia. Check out our cycling tours to Italy.

Embark on a 12-day journey through Sicily and Malta, starting in Sicily. Upon arrival, dive into a culinary tour of Scicli and Modica, savoring local delights and exploring these picturesque towns. Discover ancient Siracusa's archaeological wonders and enjoy a scenic drive to Taormina, where you'll explore its charming streets with a local guide and unwind in the afternoon. Experience an off-road adventure to Mount Etna, followed by a Sicilian dinner with live music in Taormina. Head to historic Ragusa, strolling through the enchanting Ragusa-Ibla and savoring a peaceful evening. Visit the stunning Baroque town of Noto before returning to Ragusa. Journey to Palermo to explore its vibrant markets and historic sites before flying to Malta. In Sliema, set sail across Valletta’s Grand Harbour, explore the capital's highlights, and enjoy free time on Sliema’s beaches or a trip to Gozo to see the Ggantija temples. Conclude your adventure indulging in Maltese traditions before departure.

Whether by bike, train, or foot, Italy offers countless opportunities to explore its rich tapestry of vibrant culture, timeless history, and breathtaking landscapes. Take advantage of a 12-day Italy tour to visit iconic hotspots like the Colosseum, Piazza della Signoria, and the Valley of Temples, but also carve out time to visit lesser-known gems, such as the Baroque towns of Scicli and Modica, or the stunning white city of Ostuni.

If you are looking for Italy 12 days itinerary options tailored to your preferences and interests, contact our travel experts for a customized trip to Italy. Our article on how many days to spend in Italy will also come in handy. Our articles on  11 days in Italy and 13 days in Italy will help you with the ideal duration to spend in the country. For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Italy. Our guides on places to visit in Italy and things to do in Italy will also come in handy while planning a trip to Italy.

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