1 Week in Italy: History, Pizza & the Amalfi Coast
There’s something undeniably magical about spending one week in Italy. From ancient ruins to coastal charm and—yes—authentic wood-fired pizza, this itinerary is a dream come true for history buffs, food lovers, and beachgoers alike. I’ve wandered through cobbled streets, tasted pizza where it was born, and watched the sun melt into the Tyrrhenian Sea—and I’m here to help you do the same.
This guide blends iconic landmarks with personal favorites I’ve discovered along the way. Whether it’s your first time in Italy or a long-overdue return, you’ll find plenty to inspire and delight across Rome, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.
Day 1–2: Rome – The Eternal City
Start your Italian adventure in Rome, where layers of history wait around every corner. Begin at the Colosseum, then stroll through the Roman Forum and end your day tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain—legend says it guarantees your return. Time your visit early in the morning or at golden hour to avoid the crowds and enjoy that magical Roman glow.
Spend your second day diving deeper. Visit the Vatican Museums and marvel at Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, then relax in Piazza Navona with a glass of wine and some people-watching. I love ending the day in Trastevere, a bohemian neighborhood full of narrow alleys and local trattorias where the pasta is homemade and the vibe is always buzzing.
Day 3: Naples – Pizza Capital of the World
Hop on a fast train south to Naples, the birthplace of pizza. I made a point to visit L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, and yes—it really does live up to the hype. Grab a Margherita or Marinara (the only two options!) and enjoy the pure simplicity of Neapolitan pizza, with its soft crust and blistered edges.
After lunch, take a walking tour through Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that cuts through the city’s historic heart. It’s chaotic, colorful, and unforgettable. Don’t miss the Naples National Archaeological Museum if you’re planning to visit Pompeii—many of the original frescoes and artifacts are preserved there.
Day 4: Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
Set out early for a day trip to Pompeii, one of the most haunting and impressive archaeological sites I’ve ever explored. Walking through the preserved streets of this Roman city, frozen in time after the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius, is a surreal experience. Hire a guide or download an audio tour—it makes the ruins come alive with context.
In the afternoon, head up Mount Vesuvius itself. The hike to the crater is short but steep, and on a clear day, the views stretch across the Bay of Naples. Bring sturdy shoes and a light jacket—it’s often windy at the top, but the panoramic reward is worth it.
Day 5–6: Positano & Amalfi
Welcome to the Amalfi Coast, where cliffs plunge into sapphire waters and lemon groves scent the air. Base yourself in Positano, the postcard-perfect village that clings to the hillside. I stayed in a family-run B&B with a balcony view of the sea and spent my first afternoon just wandering through shops and sipping limoncello by the beach.
Dedicate your second day to exploring the coast. Catch a ferry or local bus to Amalfi and Ravello—Amalfi’s cathedral is stunning, while Ravello’s Villa Cimbrone offers some of the most breathtaking garden views I’ve seen in Italy. Be sure to stop for seafood pasta and enjoy the slow pace of coastal life.
Day 7: Sorrento or Capri
On your final day, take a detour to Sorrento, a laid-back town that offers easy access to Naples and the coast. Spend the morning strolling through its markets, grabbing souvenirs like handmade ceramics or bottles of limoncello. I loved grabbing a scoop of gelato and watching the boats drift along the harbor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a half-day trip to Capri instead. The ferry ride is gorgeous, and once on the island, you can take a boat tour around the famous Blue Grotto or ride the chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro for panoramic views. Either way, it’s a dreamy final note for your one week in Italy.
