Artistic masterpieces, historic treasures, fascinating cities, amazing landscapes, delicious food, wonderful wine, buzzing nightlife… that is Italy in a Nutshell. Immerse yourself in Italy’s rich culture and create memories that will last longer than the pasta on your plate. Bravissimo !
To get the most out of your Italy trip, without breaking the bank & for better personal DIY planning we are sending you this link with essential details. These details will be also sent across to you daily as per the trip itinerary by I Trip Scout on whatsapp. You may use this information as a ready reckoner or an advance planner during the coming 10 days of your trip.
SUMMARY OF THE TRIP
Dec 23- Day 1- Flight from India to Rome ; Airport Transfers & Overnight stay at Rome 1
Dec 24- Day 2- Rome Hop on Hop Off & Overnight stay Rome 2
Dec 25- Day 3- Bus (Rome to Florence) & Overnight stay at Florence
Dec 26- Day 4- Florence DIY & Overnight stay at Florence
Dec 27- Day 5- Bus (Florence to Pisa) ; Stopover at Pisa ; Train (Pisa to Milan) & Overnight stay at Milan 1
Dec 28- Day 6- Hop On Hop Off Milan & Overnight Stay in Milan 2
Dec 29- Day 7- Venice Day Trip & Overnight stay at Milan 3
Dec 30- Day 8- Day trip to Monza/Parma/Verona/Lake Como & Overnight stay at Milan 4
Dec 31- Day 9- Bus (Milan – Rome) ; Overnight at Rome 1
Jan 01- Day 10- DIY Day Rome ; Overnight stay at Rome 2
Jan 02- Day 11- Homeward Bound
ITALIAN WAY ITINERARY HACKS
DAY 1: DEPARTURE FROM INDIA
Say goodbye to your city & head to the airport. Flash you VISA to the immigration in full SWAG ! The Euro trip has finally begun.
DAY 1: AHOY ! ITALIA
Rome, the capital of Italy awaits you. As you land by afternoon, get set to discover the blend of culture and history spiced up with a vibrant nightlife. Walk across the cobblestone streets of this glorious town, grab a slice of an authentic Italian pizza and break the ice over yummy Gelato. Use this day to recharge, absorb the culture and set the tone for the coming week.
-How to reach hostel from Airport: The shuttle tickets will be sent across to you individually on whatsapp & email as soon you land & switch on your phone in Rome. Your shuttle will drop you to Termini Station.
-From Termini Station to Hostel:
Easily reachable, Alessandro Palace Hostel is located a short 5 minute walk from Termini train station.
1. With the train tracks at your back, exit Termini Station by Track No.1 on the right hand side of the station.
2. Make a left on Via Marsala, then take your first right down Via Vicenza.
3. Continue down Via Vicenza, until you reach #42 on the left side of the street.
–About Hostel: You’ll be staying at Alessandro Downtown Hostel. (Don’t get confused, there are 2 Alessandro Hostels in the city.) Hostel Address: Alessandro Downtown Hostel, Via Carlo Cattaneo, 23, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bcETkv4wCns
Suggestions:
-Take it light today. Relax and absorb the Italian Vibe by taking evening strolls on the cobblestone streets.
–Sapori e Delizie : Italian Pizza Outlet: This place has damn good authentic pizza. Start your day with Pizza in Italy. Come on guys, what a better start than an authentic Italian pizza. ( 650 Mts from Hostel)
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tcSNUi9SfvL2
–Cafe Greco : italy is really known for its lavazza and coffee. Keats & Byron drank coffee at the marble tables of this celebrated, richly-ornate 18th-century cafe (2.1 Km from Hostel)
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xJDMd8kq4YF2
–La Casa Del Caffè Tazza D’oro: Classic coffee shop where baristas serve up celebrated iced granita with whipped cream layers. (2 kms from Hostel)
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/FTBQfv8Dz6T2
–Freni e Frizioni : In case you are up for some fancy try the vibrant bar with a popular terrace, serving cocktails & aperitivos amid chandeliers & modern art.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tV4Fem2YDiG2
DAY 2: ROME HOP ON HOP OFF
Wake up to a time warp and step back to 753 BC, in one of the world’s oldest open-air museums on a Hop On Hop Off tour. Work up a your appetite for Pasta as you visit the Pantheon, throw your two cents in the Trevi Fountain, sit on the Spanish Steps and visit history’s version of the Hunger Games set at the Colosseum #TrueStory. Fall in love with architecture at the Piazza di Santa Francesca Romana, this #Insta perfect setting is made for your next profile picture 😜. As the sun sets grab a beer (or vino ?) and spend the evening to your fancy.
Hop On Hop Off:
-The tickets for your Hop On & Hop Off shall be send across to every individual traveler 2 hours prior to the scheduled Hop On Hop Off plan.
– Nearest Boarding Point: Your Hop On Hop Off ride starts from Termini Station (Stop 1). Buses run between 09:00 am and 07:00 pm, every 20 minutes.
Suggestions:
–Take a break from your Hop On Hop Off and grab some amazing coffee. Head to Sant’ Eustachio Il Caffè. How can you be Italy and skip the best coffee. This Coffee shop famed for its home-roast beans(like literally) 😁, blended with water from an ancient aqueduct. (2.7 Km from Hostel)
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/PC5UiLuznsx 🙌🏻
–Dar Filettaro: There’s been a lot of talk regarding Rome street food lately.🙂 Suppli, pizza al taglio and more panini places than you can count. You would think that street food has been ‘rediscovered’ by a new generation . But there’s one place that has been serving the same simple, quick and cheap Roman street food for generations😇. They have been serving the best known filetto di baccalà (fried fish) in the heart of Rome since the 50s. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gxSLdJScmSP2
–Momart Cafè : Feeling fancy check this cool bar with a cellar restaurant & heated terrace, for contemporary Italian dining by candlelight. You may want to go here for your roman date 😆🍸👌
–Caffè Propaganda: For late sleepers and late risers 😁 Late night talks and food. This is the place for you. Planning a long night , dine here. Opens around 2 am(1.7 Kms from Hostel)
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pHtTcru87Ts
–Souvenir Shops:
-Souvenir Italia: Here you can stock up for Bronze figures, charms, bracelets, other jewellery and Murano Glass goodies. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pQCScantQ6t
–Ponte Milvio Market: If you’re into antiques, this is the place to be. Recommended by the locals, it’s located at the river side and is full of options. Take a note that it is a Sunday market. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6zHYP5U2ekT2
-Veg Meal Options:
–Borgo 139: They are famous among locals for their fresh sandwiches and paninis. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/HhQns89o4cy
-Aromaticus: Quaint, charming little restaurant with fresh food and herbs is a great to-go place for grabbing lunch/dinner. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/GWYzbmBoLcm
DAY 3: ROME TO FLORENCE
Pump-up the tempo of this trip ! Wake up early, snack on a bruschetta and hop on to your ride across the pretty Tuscan countryside to Florence.
BUS FROM ROME TO FLORENCE:
– Your bus will depart at 12:10 hrs from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station.
– Do ensure you reach 30 minutes prior to the departure of the bus, else you may miss the bus. Keep your e-tickets and passport handy.
-You’ll reach Florence by 15:25 hrs.
DIRECTIONS FROM HOSTEL TO ROME TIBURTINA BUS STATION:
How to reach the station Walk for about 2 min, 160 m to reach the metro station. From there take a train from Turati/fanti to Staz.ne Tiburtina (MB). From there walk for about about 6 min , 450 m to reach Rome Tiburtina bus station.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/X3s7drVWo2x
ABOUT FLORENCE:
Arrive at Florence, waste no time in this city straight out of a painting and head to Ponte Vecchio, #Fact this bridge-setting is so picturesque that even Hitler ordered his army to not destroy or damage it. Grab dinner and make merry at Piazza della Signoria to end this perfect day.
About Hostel:
–Ostello 7 Santi is your new home today. 🙂 This is an ideal super budget backpacker hostel located in a strategic area of Florence, close to the main points of interest and easily accessible by any means of transport. ✌🏻
Hostel Address: Viale dei Mille, 11, 50131 Firenze FI, Italy
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zPPvyFMBrK12
It’s an ideal place to stay in Florence, close to the center but in a quiet area, just minutes from the Stadio Artemio Franchi and the Mandela Forum, with bus stop (to and from the historic center) in front of the hostel entrance, train station 5 minutes, Firenze Sud motorway exit a few km. 🚎
DIRECTIONS FROM FLORENCE (VILLA COSTANZA TRAM T1) TO HOSTEL:
–Once you reach your bus stop Florence, Florence (Villa Costanza Tram T1)
-You need to head to the nearest metro station i.e 900 mts away.
-Once you are at the metro station you take a tram from Luigi Boccherini – TO – Ospedale Torre Galli – TO – Mazzini 01- TO – Campo Marte Fs
-From Campo Marte F s if your feeling super energetic and want to stroll around a little while reaching the hostel then its good to take a walk. Its around 800-900 mts. Florence streets are damn beautiful.
-Else from Campo di Marte you may walk for like 80-100 mts and take a train from Malta 04 – TO – Mille Sette Santi This is a 3 to 4 minute train only as distance is minimal. Once you reach Mille Sette Santi just walk to the hostel & mentioned the name written on the card.
SUGGESTIONS:
-No trip to Florence🚎 would be complete without a few classic art pieces. While the Accademia is home to David, the Uffizi is home to practically everything else. Giotto, de Vinci, Raphael, and Botticelli are just a few of the famous artists whose work is featured here. In addition to the incredible art, the windows in the Uffizi offer spectacular views of the Arno. Whether you make a quick visit to see Titian’s Venus of Urbino and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus or spend a whole day touring the 45 halls in the Uffizi, this gallery is a must-see.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ENzj1w9AM282
-Sunset: Guys try the sunset / sunrise on ‘Piazzale Michelangelo’ it’s a long & steep walk ….. but totally worth it ! Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2JErzdiWC5y
-Dinner: Grab dinner and make merry at Piazza della Signoria
You’ll probably visit every major square in this very human-sized city but there is something special about Piazza della Signoria at night. This vast open-air square is home to the Loggia dei Lanzi, a sculpture gallery tucked into a corner of the piazza and the perfect people-watching perch. In the gallery itself, you’ll spot original sculptures of so many artistic greats, including Benvenuto Cellini’s intense “Perseus With The Head of Medusa”. At night, the sculptures are lovingly illuminated, taking on a mind of their own among an almost theatrical backdrop, as classical music by local performers drifts through the majestic scene.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/yiV7ms7MhER2)
-Gelato: Italians eat gelato during every season and it proves to be a cheap way to get your dolce fix (we totally approve of having it for breakfast). But it pays to know the rules: always go for gelato from those who make it on site, which that won’t be the colourful type you see on Ponte Vecchio or Via Roma. Try one of these quality spots in the centre like My Sugar, Perché No!, La Sorbettiera, Il Procopio, Vivoli, Gelateria dei Neri and Gelateria della Passera, and stop by often, we won’t judge you. You really need to try this as you ll never get the same taste back in India.
–Other options:
Traditional Florentine Dishes and Drinks: Do try this, it’s something you’ll not get anywhere 😇
- Bistecca alla fiorentina (T-bone steak)
- Trippa alla fiorentina (tripe with tomato sauce)
- Lampredotto (typical tripe street food)
- Crostini Neri (liver pate)
- Cantuccini (almond biscuit)
- Schiacciata Fiorentina (sweet cake)
- Chianti (local wine)😅
-You’re on a shoestring budget? Check out these quick hacks:
Eating Out Tips:😎 Save Some Bucks !
1.) Instead of buying a small glass of wine at the restaurant, head to the store to buy an entire bottle of Chianti, or any other wine, for less than €7.00.
2.) Avoid the 10-15% sit down charge by taking your meal to go. We recommend grabbing a pizza to go and a bottle of Chianti from the store for the perfect Italian “take-out picnic , incase you plan this out.
3.) Be aware of food that is priced by weight, especially the Florentine T-bone steak. It might look cheap at first, but the weight adds up.
4.) When at a restaurant, ask for tap water and be aware of the waiter offering you additional items. Usually those are not included in your meal and will cost you extra.
5.) The bakeries in supermarkets are also a great spot to get some good cheap meals, especially paninis and focaccia
DAY 4: FLORENCE DIY DAY
A #bucketlist sunrise with the Duomo di Firenze as the centerpiece and a walk down the cobblestone Florentine streets for the perfect cioccolato croissant is how you define a holiday 🤗. Shift gears and take a drive in as you hop on bus to visit the most awesome sites florence has to offer. Enjoy a slow evening as you keep yourself intrigued in world class museums, exotic streets and architecture from the era of Renaissance.
SUGGESTIONS:
-Take a city walking tour and get to know about the city’s glorious past.
–Piazza Santo Spirito: Florence is full of stunning public squares, but what with all the sightseers, not many will give you a proper taste of the city’s real cosmopolitan life. For that, cross the river to the bohemian Piazza Santo Spirito: home to a proper street market and bars and restaurants full of locals. Pop into the church for some peace and quiet, or sit on the steps and people-watch.
–The Chianti Classico subregion: Stretching between Florence and Sienna, the Chianti Classico subregion serves up some very fine wine. Get stuck into a few of them at Le Volpi e l’Uva, a wine bar near the Ponte Vecchio that’s been tapping up small Italian producers since 1992, and also has a limited (but delicious) snack selection for stomach-lining. And not too far away is Vivanda, which opened in 2010: the city’s first enoteca devoted to organic wines.
-Souvenir Shops:
–Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella: This is the place where locals head to when they want to shop for Florentine gifts. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/n7aoSzKMLyu )
–Signum Firenze – Legatoria e Scrittura: This wonderful shop is filled with traditional Flornetine handicrafts. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/j5Sw9uULZbQ2 )
-VEG Meal Options:
–Il Vegetariano: This small family owned restaurant serves delicious homemade style vegetarian dishes. Thier non veg pizzas and pasta are favorite among local crowd too. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9qbD34Fy8nL2 )
-I’Pizzacchiere: As its name indicates, this place serves amazing pizzas made from fresh, fluffy dough. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7ZTRW7zJD1N2 )
DAY 5: FLORENCE- PISA- MILAN
As the sun goes up pack your bags, wear those wayfarers and start your journey north with a stopover at Pisa to catch a glimpse of the leaning tower #TouristyMust.
BUS FROM FLORENCE TO PISA:
-You bus will depart from Florence (Villa Costanza Tram T1) at 08:10 hrs
-Do ensure you reach 30 minutes prior to the departure of the bus, else you may miss the bus. Keep your e-tickets and passport handy.
– You ‘ll reach PISA by 09:30hrs
ON REACHING PISA:
–The bus will stop at Pietrasantina . It more like a free parking spot for bus stops. From there you just walk 200 mts to reach station . From there take a ticket from Pietrasantina 5 to reach P.Za Manin . Once you reach bus stop Pisa P.Za Manin would would see from a distance only “Leaning Tower of Pisa”
-Stopover at Pisa to catch a glimpse of the leaning tower #TouristyMust. Quick #insta snaps and a snack around the Piazza dei Miracoli will make sure you are ready for the journey. 😁
-You can grab a quick snack from Kinzica Pisa. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/VTeezUHztP82
-In case you wish to store your luggage, Pisa Centrale train station has the facility to store luggage and they charge around Eur 5-6.
TRAIN FROM PISA TO MILAN:
– Your train from PISA to MILAN will depart from Pisa Centrale at 13:42 hours.
– Do ensure you reach 30 minutes prior to the departure of the bus, else you may miss the bus. Keep your e-tickets and passport handy.
– You ‘ll reach MILAN (Milano Centrale) by 17:50 hrs.
DIRECTIONS FOR PISA CENTRALE:
From Leaning tower of PISA walk for around 400 mts to reach another bus station. From there take a bus from Via Bonanno 113 to Pisa Station Fs . From there, just walk for a minute to reach the Pisa Centrale . (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4R46Lxzi7v52 )
ABOUT MILAN:
Milan, the global capital of fashion and design welcomes you. Not only is Milan a treasure trove of 21th-century fashion, but also art deco and rationalist architecture abound. It was in powerful commercial cities such as Milan that Italy’s great cuisine was born, marrying Mediterranean fruits, spices and herbs with cooking methods, pastry techniques and eating styles from France and central Europe.
ABOUT HOSTEL:
You’ll be staying at Queen Hostel. Queen Hostel is located in the historical centre of Milan on Viale Regina Margherita, this is how the hostel got its name (“Regina” in Italian means “Queen”).
Hostel Address: Viale Regina Margherita, 9, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bRHUP82EdYL2
DIRECTIONS FROM MILANO CENTRALE TRAIN STATION TO HOSTEL:
Option 1: Tram 9
-Go to Piazza IV Novembre, take Tram 9 towards Porta Genova.
-Get off at the stop VIALE MONTE NERO / VIA BERGAMO (13 stops).
-As soon as you get off, you’ll see a small garden in the corner and a newsstand. Queen Hostel is just behind this garden, you can see the sign on the top of the building. Our address is: Viale Regina Margherita, 9.
Option 2: Taxi (15 minutes) – it takes from 10 to 15 minutes and costs from 10€ to 15€.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Mom’s Cafe: Besides offering one of the best Bloody Marys in Milan, Mom Café is distinguished by its incredible range of aperitivo snacks and its slightly more mature but still energetic crowd, stretching from the bar onto the pavement. The live jazz is a nice touch. And the best part, it’s just 2 minutes walk from the Hostel. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/aUcSWx1272F2
DAY 6: MILAN HOP ON HOP OFF:
Start with a ride on the #Insta perfect vintage trams to old town Milano. Begin with the magnificent Duomo then walk across the Teatro alla Scala to the Sforzesco Castle (14th Century Castle), next up is lush green Parco Sempione for that perfect pause, and finally the Arco della Pace. Grab lunch at Panzerotti Luini and finish with artisan gelato right next door. Evenings in Milano are made at Naviglio Grande, an old canal with a setting right out of Hollywood. We will join the thousands of Italians out here every evening getting happy-high on ‘Bira Mojito’ 😎 because #WhyNot ?
Hop On Hop Off:
-The tickets for your Hop On & Hop Off shall be send across to every individual traveler 2 hours prior to the scheduled Hop On Hop Off plan.
– Your Hop On Hop Off ride starts from Castello-Foro Bonaparte, 76 (angolo via Cusani). Buses start at 09:30 am, every 35 minutes.
Hop On Hop Off Boarding Points:
These are some points which are close to Queen Hostel.
-Sforza (1.1 kms from Hostel)
-San Babila (1.5 kms from Hostel)
-Porta Venezia (1.6 kms from Hostel)
Suggestions:
-Your hop on hop off you have various options to choose from. But these are certain things we surely will recommend.
- Milan Cathedral – Milan Cathedral is a truly monumental building and is famed for its sublime architecture and took over 600 years to complete. Located in the centre of Milan in the self-named Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral was constructed in 1386 but not officially completed until 1965! With an Italian Gothic style, the front façade of the cathedral is truly magnificent and is crowned with countless towers, statues and decoration.🚎
- Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie – Although the exterior of this church is not one of the most renowned, it still has a certain charm and grace – Created in 1497, the church features a Gothic style using red bricks and a large rear basilica.This church can be found on the Corso Magenta and sits at the opposite side of Milan to the Duomo.Inside the building lies one of the greatest artistic masterpieces in the world – The Last Supper by Leonardo di Vinci.
- Pinacoteca di Brera -Located in the Palazzo Brera, the Pinacoteca is a fine Art Gallery that contains a large collection of Italian art.
- For chilling in the park head to Castello Sforzesco – This 15th century castle has a central location in Milan and is set in extensive grounds and gardens
- Pinacoteca di Brera -Located in the Palazzo Brera, the Pinacoteca is a fine Art Gallery that contains a large collection of Italian art.
- Sant Ambrogio – This ancient building is one of the oldest in Milan and was built in 379 AD by St. Ambrose. – This is an art piece Abhilash. You may want to check this out ! ☺
- Brera district – This charming district is located to the north of the Duomo in-between Borgonuovo and Broletto.A distinct Bohemian atmosphere prevails here and the district is full of art academies, galleries and well-to-do restaurants and bars.
- Walk down the Naviglio Grande – Not many people realise that Milan actually has two canals, one of which is the Naviglio Grande – This canal stretches from the Porta Ticinese to the Ticino river some 50km to the west.
–POMET by Pasquale Pometto: Pomet specialises in these unique pizza sandwich type dishes which are both delicious and filling. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2eUC19eFvEE2 )
–Street Food behind Duomo: Panzerotti Luini: Luini makes amazing panzerotti – pillowy fried dough parcels stuffed with tomato and mozzarella. The Milanese have made a beeline for Luini’s windows since it first opened in 1888, and now there’s always queue in front of this hole-in-the wall shop, especially at lunchtime. Panzerotti is street food at its best; cheap, cheerful, quick and tasty.
–Pizza Mundial: You can smell this place even when you get off the train in the front station, so that when you arrive in front of it you can’t wait to taste a good slice of pizza! Everything has a good “Mundial” oily flavour, it’s not the best quality pizza, but it’s great to satisfy your hunger for a very low price.
Goolge Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JbBW3szNmSR2
-Try and go to an Italian Aperitivo. Best Street parites in Milan happen there.
-There is a place called Bangrabar, it starts at 6 and ends at 9 …so it gives like a italian drink + unlimited traditional food with a view of the Arc at somewhere between 10-15 euros. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/N3yRmovXmyq
Pro Backpacking Tip : So lunches while visiting a new place are usually quick, and in order to cut your lunch bill by half visit any supermarket and pick up stuff to eat on the go. To keep yourself hydrated make sure you pick up a pack of juice and to keep yourself energetic pick up a pack of chocolates along with it. Two of the major supermarkets in Milan are ‘Esselunga’ and ‘Lidl’ ….Lidl always has great offers.
DAY 7: DAY TRIP TO VENICE:
Wake up early and take a train to Venice, and unlike DDLJ we have #NoDrama 🤦♀️. This city needs no introduction, a setting for every European dream. Starting at Santa Maria the city is yours for the day ! everything is a 15 minute walk from anywhere in Venice. Get filmy on the Rialto, choke Instagram at Piazza San Marco, ride the Gondola, read a book by the San Rocco or try flavourful italian cuisine at an Osteria. Just as you are about to extinguish your energy reserves, hop on the train back to Milano!
TRAIN FROM MILAN TO VENICE:
-Your train will depart from Milano Centrale at 08:34hrs
-Do ensure that you reach station 30 minutes prior to the departure of your train, else you may end up missing it. Keep your tickets and passport handy.
– You’ll reach Venezia Santa Lucia at 10:59hrs
DIRECTIONS FROM HOSTEL TO MILANO CENTRALE:
–Walk about 800 mts and reach Crocetta Metro Station. (GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/5yxPrsKMsDF2 )
-Take Metro Line M3 going towards Comasina (last stop), deboard at Centrale which is 6 stops away.
– Walk for 350 mts and you reach Milano Centrale Main Railway Station.
Google Map Location (Milano Centrale) : https://goo.gl/maps/2u1kvxjesTr
RECOMMENDATIONS:
When spending your one day in Venice, try to do two things:
–Don’t get lost.
-Get lost.
Let us explain. Venice is a zigzagging maze of a city and standard map rules don’t seem to apply. Getting lost in the winding wonder of Venice’s streets is part of the charm of the city. Get Lost in Venice! this is truly part of Venice’s charm. Wandering aimlessly through the various sized alleys and streets during your one day in Venice is the best way to experience the wonder of this unique city built on water. Throughout the walk you’ll come to various intersections where a pedestrian walkway runs over a water alley through which a gondola or water taxi is sailing through. Seeing these water streets amidst the twists and turns of the land streets is truly magical.
–St Mark’s Square: A good starting point for spending one day in Venice is the famous Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square). Pigeons are everywhere in this square . St. Mark’s Basilica is on one end of the square and has a gorgeous, intricate exterior with an impressive golden dome.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gDUx8KBKA9z
–Murano Glass From St. Mark’s Cathedral, take a water bus to Murano to witness some glass blowing. A lot of the shops have demonstrations so check times for these upon arriving and schedule one around your browsing. Murano glass makes a great – but fragile! – souvenir and gift. Be careful getting it home in one piece!
–A Gondola Ride: Is it Worth it?
The answer is yes…but, do you really want to? A gondola ride is quintessential Venice and you don’t want to risk regretting not doing it someday.
-Spending one day in Venice is all about getting your bearings, having a cappuccino or lunch in a charming square, marveling over glass masterpieces, and losing yourself in the streets and canals of Venice.
Spend the evening at leisure, and by sunset get set to hop on to your train back to Milan.
TRAIN FROM VENICE TO MILAN:
– Your train will depart from Venezia Santa Lucia at 20:01hrs. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/MQUGTyAMNZk )
Do ensure that you reach station 30 minutes prior to the departure of your train, else you may end up missing it. Keep your tickets and passport handy.
-You’ll reach Milano Centrale at 22:26hrs.
DAY 8: DAY TRIP TO MONZA/PARMA/VERONA/LAKE COMO:
Once a while in life, you have to make tough decisions. And today, is one of those days. You stand a few hours away from three compelling cities, each with a flavor of its own 😏. for petrolheads its Monza – the birthplace of Ferrari & Lamborghini, Parma -cradle of Italian Gastronomy is for the foodies and Verona – the home of Juliet & Pinnochio is an Art Lovers paradise or the stunning Lake Como. Each traveler can pick their own city and spend a meaningful day falling in love with their passion all over again.
Leave from Milano Centrale at 08:20hrs to arrive at Monza by 08:31hrs. By late evening board from Monza at 19:39 and reach back Milan by 19:50 and spend your evening with your travel clan sharing your day trip stories with chilling scenes at the hostel.
-Suggestions:
–Pasticceria Cucchi: Panettone is a Christmas culinary tradition throughout Italy, but it originated in Milan, so it is here that you can find the original and the best. The tall dome-shaped loaf (or, some would say cake) is light and airy with a savoury buttery flavour.
-VEG Meal Options:
-Mr Panozzo: This place is all about great pizza, friendly staff, nice little touches (free bites) to make the experience more enjoyable, with an added bit of quirkiness. Google Map Loaction: https://goo.gl/maps/ywcBTrtD5282 )
-Savana Ristorante Eritreo: Craving for some late night meal options, then this is the place to be. Great warm atmosphere, authentic African and Ethopian food is their speciality. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qoUpWuRnA2y )
-Souvenir Shops:
–La Rinascente Design Supermarket: If you are looking for an Italian memento, pick from many classic Italian design icons from the past 60 years: Morano glass by Venini, whacky kitchenware by Alessi, and so much more. Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sPhxUczjCDH2 )
-Souvenir Stalls: If you are passing through Parco Sempione look for a tabacchi-type booth called Milan Leo Souvenirs, or when you visit Piazza del Duomo pop into Fiori Souvenirs.
DAY 9: MILAN TO ROME:
Wake up early, bid goodbye to Milan and gear up for your journey back to Rome.
BUS FROM MILAN TO ROME:
–Your bus will depart from Milan (Lampugnano Bus Station) at 08:25 hrs
-Do ensure that you reach station 30 minutes prior to the departure of your train, else you may end up missing it. Keep your tickets and passport handy.
– You’ll reach Rome Tiburtina Bus Station at 17:20 hrs.
DIRECTIONS FROM HOSTEL TO MILAN (LAMPUGNANO BUS STATION):
-Walk 120 mts towards VIALE MONTE NERO / VIA BERGAMO Tram stop and hop on to Tram 9 going towards Stazione Centrale. Get off at Porta Venezia.
-From Porta Venezia tram stop, walk for about 2 minutes. Walk north-west on Piazza Guglielmo Oberdan towards Via Lazzaro Spallanzani. Then, turn right onto Corso Buenos Aires. Then, turn left onto Piazza Guglielmo Oberdan. You’ll reach Porta Venezia Metro Station.
-Take Metro Line M1 going towards Rho Fieramilano and get down after 13 stops at Lampugnano.
-Then walk about 110 mts, walk north-east towards Via Giulio Natta, then turn right onto Via Giulio Natta, then turn left to stay on Via Giulio Natta, then again take a left. You’ll reach Milan Lampugnano Bus Station.
-ABOUT ROME:
Rome will feel like home now 😊, but Italy has more up its sleeve. Today is ‘me-time’ #BecauseHoliday, take over the day in a city that has everything to offer like deal-hunters can shop, history aficionados can go monument hopping, art-buffs can visit the museum, basically make the city your own.
DIRECTIONS FROM ROME TIBURTINA TO ALESSANDRO HOSTEL:
–Walk for about 2 minutes towards Staz.ne Tiburtina Bus Stop. Take Bus No 71.
-Get down at Rattazzi/Giolitti. From there, walk for about 4 minutes. You’ll reach Alessandro Downtown Hostel.
(Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4tDSv4eAVR82 )
Suggestions:
–Salotto 42 : Happy hour Food. Outdoor Seating . Great Cocktail . Simple words simple explanation. In case you are a cocktail person. This place is for you.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/eFvCmgUr4mp
-Ai Tre Scalini : This is definitely to know place. Check this out if your are arriving late. Late night food. Super Cozy. Super Casual. Usually open up till 1 AM.
(Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vwGYiCM8DU12 )
DAY 10: ROME DIY DAY
Today is ‘me-time’ #BecauseHoliday, take over the day in a city that has everything to offer like deal-hunters can shop, history aficionados can go monument hopping, art-buffs can visit the museum, basically make the city your own. At evening link up with your clan at the Campo De Fiori, watch this square light up and turn into an open-air bar. After the mood is set shift to one of the numerous happening hotspots for that #OneLastTime Party. Warning : Teary Eyes.
Suggestions:
–Baguetteria del Fico – This small deli offers sandwiches, a whole array of meat, cheese platters and a wide selection of beers. (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Xi9FfB3CccU2 )
–La Salumeria – They are known for their great Paninis, meat & cheese platters.Their Red Wine is worth a try too! (Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pMLBfSa8DtP2 )
DAY 11: HOMEWARD BOUND
We usually have morning flights, but since your’s is in the evening, take this day to relax or explore anything and everything that you might have missed so far. All good things come to an end 😭 and so must the Italian Experience. Catch your flight back home with a heart full of memories & unforgettable experiences Miss The Trip ! Forever & Ever
EURO GAME PLAN:
Travel Community works on the method of sharing and mutual respect. The condition of sharing via method of crowdsourcing helps Tripver bring out the most budgeted trip for our travellers. The benefits of budget trip is then passed on to each traveller who then travels with the community. Find below the community sharing model of the Euro Trip.
I TRIP SCOUT:
This being a DIY backpacking trip & many of our travelers are going to Europe for the first time, we want to ensure a hassle-free trip. For this purpose, let us introduce you to iTripScout. iTrip Scout is an online virtual trip captain for both Community & Tripver Prive Trips. ITripScout will be part of the Whatsapp group too. The team of I Trip Scout are experienced professional and senior community member who have curated the itinerary. Itripscout will have 02 functions:
*LIVE Functions:ITripScout feature will be available for LIVE CHAT from 0900 AM to 0700 PM as per the current destination standard time, where the traveller is travelling. The messages chat will happen on a personal chat window of WhatsApp between the traveller and Tripver ITripScout. This information can be pertaining to traveller personal inquiry about a specific destination, route, flights, best restaurants, a suggestion for DIY Day etc.
*DAILY Functions: ITripScout will send out messages in the following time
- Assist traveler in self-travel by sharing maps to catch the local transports, walk, cafe crawls & one point contacts.
- Prior to the beginning of the travelers day, informing him the agenda as per the itinerary.
- Suggestions for recommended places to visit & stay.
- Any other necessary recommendation or update of the day as per the itinerary
*Response time: The response time for I Trip Scout shall be within 5 minutes.
Timings & Punctuality: Please ensure that you reach the bus boarding points at least 30 minutes prior to the time of departure. Do keep you e tickets and passport handy. Tripver will not be responsible for traveller missing their bus however in case any traveller does miss the bus due to unavoidable circumstances, I Trip Scout & team will be happy to rebook reschedule and take contingency methods instantly. The expenses for the same will have to be borne by the individual traveller via online payment link which will be sent instantly before rebooking the ticket.
Out-of-this-world adventures? Check. Stunning locations? You bet. Memories to last a lifetime? Hell yeah!
Let Tripver take you there.
Happy to Help !
Tripver- Travel Community
