Italy 10-Day Itinerary & Stunning Photography Spots

Just returned from Italy, and I can't get over it! The artistic vibe of the Renaissance, the medieval charm of ancient cities, and the azure Mediterranean coast... Every day felt like a feast for the eyes! 🍦 Here's a detailed 10-day classic itinerary and guide, perfect for photography enthusiasts! 🚶♀️ My 10-Day Classic Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival in Rome -> Check-in and rest (Airport to city center via train/bus is very convenient) Day 2-3: Explore Rome in depth! Must-visit: Colosseum (book in advance!), Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps. Strolling through the ancient city feels like walking through history. 📸 Photography spots: The Colosseum at sunset is incredibly atmospheric! Trevi Fountain is less crowded in the morning, perfect for photos. The Pantheon’s dome light beam is breathtaking! Day 4: Florence - The Soul of the Renaissance Must-visit: Florence Cathedral (climb to the top for a view of the red-roofed city!), Uffizi Gallery (a paradise for art lovers, book tickets in advance!), Ponte Vecchio (golden hues at sunset). Day 5: Leaning Tower of Pisa & Colorful Cinque Terre Morning: Pisa, snap fun photos at the iconic Leaning Tower. Afternoon: Take a train to Cinque Terre! Highly recommend Manarola and Vernazza, with colorful houses and crystal-clear waters, like a postcard! 🌊 📸 Photography spots: Cinque Terre at sunset is stunning! Don’t miss the classic viewpoint in Manarola. Bright-colored outfits pop in photos! Day 6-7: Venice - A Romantic Fairytale Must-visit: St. Mark’s Square & Basilica (opulent and golden), Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge. Experience: Gondola ride (a bit pricey but unique, choose quieter canals for a more serene experience). Day 7 Highlight: Burano Island! A vibrant lace-making island that looks like a spilled paint palette, a photographer’s paradise! 🌈 📸 Photography spots: St. Mark’s Square bell tower for panoramic views, Bridge of Sighs, every colorful corner of Burano! Go early to avoid crowds. Day 8-9: Milan - The Fashion Capital & Relaxation Must-visit: Milan Cathedral (climb to the top to see the Gothic spires! Stunning stained glass inside), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (a shopping landmark). Day 9: Free activities, recommend Sforza Castle, Santa Maria delle Grazie (see "The Last Supper" - book months in advance), or indulge in shopping 🛍️. Day 10: Departure ✈️, heading home with unforgettable memories and photos! 🌟 In-depth Guide to Must-Visit Spots: Rome Colosseum: Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM Opening hours: 08:30-19:15 (peak season, check the official website for updates!) Duration: 2-3 hours (combine with Roman Forum) 📌 Tips: Book tickets online in advance! Lines are extremely long on-site. Get a combo ticket for Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for better value. Want crowd-free photos? Go early morning or just before closing at sunset! St. Mark’s Basilica (Venice): Address: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE Opening hours: Mon-Sat 09:30-17:15; Sun 14:00-17:15 (subject to change, check the official website!) Duration: 1-1.5 hours (lines can be long) 📌 Tips: Dress appropriately (no bare shoulders or knees). The interior is opulent, and the bell tower offers incredible panoramic views (separate fee). Milan Cathedral & Square: Address: P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI (cathedral and square are together) Opening hours: 09:00-19:00 Duration: Cathedral interior + rooftop + square: 3-4 hours 📌 Tips: Rooftop is a must! Elevator tickets are pricier than stairs. Beware of pigeon food sellers and “red string” scams in the square. Keep an eye on your wallet while shopping in the gallery. 🎒 Practical Packing List: 📱 European SIM card/data plan: Essential for navigation, information lookup, and social media updates! Buy in advance online. 🔌 European plug adapter: Italy uses two-round-pin plugs, a must-have! 🪪 Passport + visa + copies: Keep them safe, with backups in print or digital. 👗 June attire: Summer clothes mainly, but bring a light jacket (for churches, mornings/evenings, or air-conditioned rooms). Comfortable shoes! Walking is the norm. Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen! 💶 Cash + credit card: Carry some euros (for small restaurants, toilets, tips), most places accept cards. 📱 Recommended apps: Google Maps (navigation), Trenitalia/Italo (train schedules), TheFork (restaurant reservations), museum websites (ticket booking). 📝 Hard-earned Tips: Ticket reservations! Reservations! Reservations! Popular spots (Colosseum, Uffizi, The Last Supper, even some church rooftops) must be booked in advance online; on-site tickets may be sold out or have long lines. Beware of pickpockets! Hotspots include tourist attractions, subways, and train stations. Wear backpacks in front and keep wallets/phones in inner pockets. Transportation: Trains are convenient for intercity travel (Trenitalia/Italo). In cities, Rome/Florence rely on walking + metro, Venice uses boats (transport cards are cost-effective), Milan has a well-developed metro system. Dining: Avoid restaurants in the heart of tourist areas; explore side alleys for better prices and possibly tastier food. Try gelato, pizza, pasta, and coffee! Language: English is generally fine in tourist areas, but learning a few Italian greetings is appreciated. Italy is truly worth visiting again and again! Every corner holds a surprise. I hope this detailed guide helps you! If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. Wishing you a wonderful trip and lots of stunning photos! ✨