10 DAYS IN ITALY FOR UNDER $1,800
Take advantage of some of the amazing flight deals to Rome in May. With air fare coming in under $700 round-trip, this is a great time to visit Italy, especially if you have a limited budget.
Italy is not always the most affordable option in Europe, but it is well worth it. I recommend splitting your time between Rome and Tuscany for your first visit to Italy. The Almafi coast and other areas of Rome are also amazing, but if you are on a limited budget, are not as affordable.
Price per person based on 2 people can be as cheap as $1,800, but to splurge on some nicer hotels the cost comes in around $2,500 per person. See below for recommendations for each budget.
The budget below is based on my recommended itinerary. Pricing will change depending on how you customize your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Rome
Day 2: Rome
Day 3: Rome
Day 4: Rome
Day 5: Head to Florence
Day 6: Florence
Day 7: Florence
Day 8: Florence (Day trip to Pisa)
Day 9: Return to Rome
Day 10: Depart
Flight from Chicago to Rome
There are a number of affordable flight options to Rome this September, one of the best deals is with United and comes in at $695 per person. The dates are departing Chicago May 10th and leaving Rome on May 20th.
Hotel Recommendations in Italy
ROME
Salotto Monti: Salotto Monti, a 3 star boutique hotel is located in the renowned block Rione Monti, walking distance from Venice Square, Colosseum and Trevi Fountain. It’s central locations makes it easy to get around Rome (either by walking or the metro). It offers a great outdoor terrace to relax and enjoy the scenery and all of the expected comforts at a great price. From $212/night in May.
Hotel Barocco: Well worth the splurge, Hotel Barocco is located in a restored historic building and overlooks Piazza Barberini square and its iconic fountain, made by Rome’s baroque master, Bernini. Carefully refurbished in 2019 to offer guests superior standards of comfort and style. Rates start at $366/night in May.
Mario de Fiori 37: This small botique hotel is a great option if you can find an available room. Located in the heart of the city this charming, 17th century townhouse feels quiet and removed from the tourist hustle and bustle., while being just a block from the Spanish Steps. From $250/night in May.
Hotel Canada, BW Premier Collection: This is my top pick for your last night in Rome before flying back. It is located right next to Termini station, where you will arrive from Florence, and is well connected to the airport. On top of that it is a beautiful hotel, with modern rooms and all the amenities you are looking for. From $26/night in May.
FLORENCE
The hotels below are some of the most affordable in Florence, but still located near everything you will want to see and do while in the city.
Boutique Hotel del Corso: Hotel del Coro is my top pick while staying in Florence without breaking the bank. This hotel offers larger than normal rooms and has a small but beautiful rooftop terrace. It costs around $335 per night and is a great option while visiting the city.
Hotel Collodi: Although just outside the historic city center, this hotel is great for those on a budget that still wnt to be able to walk to everything. Located near a train station, Hotel Collodi is in San Lorenzo, a walkable area in Florence with good shopping and nearby restaurants. All of the main sites are within a 10-20 minute walk. Starting at $195 a night in May.
Davanzati: The hotel is situated in a typical Florentine building built in the 1400’s, right next to the Museo of Palazzo Davanzati, in Florence historical center. After a period of restoration, Davanzati Hotel opens its rooms once again: with original Tuscan furnishing and with all the comforts. It’s prime location and price point make this one of my favorite hotels in Florence. $317/night in May
Hotel Spadai: For those with the budget Hotel Spadai is one of the best options in the city. The hotel is located close to all of the major sites, has top amenities and the rooms are much larger than can be found elsewhere. Coming in at around $390 per night in May, it is well worth the splurge if your budget allows for it.
Getting Around Italy
Airport Transportation
The cheapest option from Fiumicino Airport to the center of Rome is a shuttle bus to Termini train station. Termini station is well connected to both metro lines. The journey takes 50 minutes and buses run approximately every hour. The price is €7 one way and €13 return (tickets can be easily booked via this website).
You can also take a taxi to Termini, and they usually run around €50 for the trip.
Train To/From Florence
There are frequent trains that run between Rome and Florence. The trip usually takes under 1:45 and costs between $19-40 each way depending on the time of day you leave. I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time through ItaliaRail as trains can fill up. If i am visiting in the off season, I will usually book it while I am at the airport back home once I know my flight is leaving on time. The cost for the roundtrip train is under $75 per person.
Getting Around Florence and Rome
Florence is a relatively small city and easily walkable. Rome on the other hand is large and it can take you over an hour to walk from one end of the city to the other. If you love walking, you absolutely can explore the city fully on foot, just plan for time between certain sites. Another great option is to use the metro lines. They run by most key sites and the tickets are affordable (€7 for 24 hour pass).
NOTE: Remember to stamp your ticket (you do this yourself in the buses and trams), or you will risk a fine. This is true for the airport train as well.
Total Cost of Trains: $150 (including some buffer for local trains and train to PIsa for day trip).
Budget Breakdown - $1,800
For those with a very tight budget, you can do Italy on a $1,800 (this includes flights, hotels and transportation). See below for the budget breakdown:
Roundtrip Air Fare: $695
Rome - Salotto Monti: $986 (4 Nights): $493
Florence - Hotel Collodi $894 (4 Nights): $321
Rome - Hotel Canada, BW Premier Collection $268 (1 Night): $134
Transportation: $150
Total Cost : $1,793
Budget Breakdown - $2,500
For those with who can afford a little bit more, I recommend the below hotels to fit within your budget. It is well worth the additional cost if it fits within your budget.
Roundtrip Air Fare: $695
Rome - Mario de Fiori 37 $1,163 (4 Nights): $582
Florence - Hotel Spadai $1,744 (4 Nights): $872
Rome - Hotel Canada, BW Premier Collection $268 (1 Night): $134
Transportation: $150
Total Cost: $2,433