Italy and Croatia in 10 Days: From Renaissance Art to Adriatic Shores
Embark on a 10-day journey through Italy and Croatia, starting with the artistic grandeur of Florence and the unique canals of Venice. Travel by train and ferry to the charming coastal town of Rovinj, explore ancient Pula, and conclude your adventure amidst the Roman history and vibrant atmosphere of Split.
- 1Florence
- 2Venice
- 3Rovinj
- 4Split
Day 1: Arrive in Florence
Begin your Italian adventure in Florence, settling into the city and taking your first steps into its historic heart. Arrive at Florence Airport (FLR) and easily reach the city centre, with Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station as a central hub, via tram, taxi, or shuttle.
Highlights
- Wander through Piazza della Signoria, an iconic square framed by civic buildings and sculpture.
- Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's most famous bridge lined with historic shops.
Day 2: Renaissance Wonders of Florence
Dedicate your day to Florence's unparalleled Renaissance art and architecture, focusing on its magnificent cathedral complex and world-renowned galleries.
Highlights
- Marvel at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, famed for Brunellesco’s dome and Gothic marble facades.
- Immerse yourself in masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo, and Michelangelo at the Uffizi Gallery.
- Visit the Galleria dell'Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David and other significant Renaissance sculptures.
Day 3: Journey to Venice and St. Mark's Square
Travel by train from Florence to the enchanting city of Venice, where you'll begin exploring its iconic main square and basilica upon arrival.
Highlights
- Take a high-speed train from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Venezia Santa Lucia, a journey typically taking around 3 hours.
- Arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia, conveniently located in the city centre.
- Discover St Mark's Square, Venice’s monumental heart framed by arcades and museums.
Day 4: Iconic Venice: Canals and Palaces
Spend the day navigating Venice's unique waterways and exploring its most famous landmarks, from bustling bridges to grand palaces.
Highlights
- Experience the Grand Canal, Venice's main waterway, best seen from a vaporetto or gondola.
- Cross the Rialto Bridge, the city’s most famous bridge, offering lively market scenes and canal views.
- Explore Doge's Palace, the historic seat of the Venetian Republic, with its lavish halls and prisons.
Day 5: Art and Hidden Gems of Venice
Delve deeper into Venice's artistic heritage and escape the crowds by exploring its quieter, authentic neighbourhoods.
Highlights
- Visit the Gallerie dell'Accademia, a leading Venetian art museum showcasing masterpieces by Bellini, Titian, and Tintoretto.
- Discover modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, set in her former home overlooking the Grand Canal.
- Wander through the quieter sestieri (districts) to find hidden canals and local bacari (wine bars).
Day 6: Ferry to Rovinj and Old Town Charm
Embark on a scenic ferry journey across the Adriatic to Rovinj, Croatia, and spend the afternoon exploring its picturesque Old Town.
Highlights
- Take a ferry from Venice to Rovinj, a direct journey typically lasting around 3.5 hours with operators like KOMPAS or Venezia Lines.
- Explore Rovinj Old Town, a maze of pastel lanes and stairways reflecting its Venetian-era character.
- Ascend to the Church of St. Euphemia, a Baroque church offering panoramic city views from its bell tower.
Day 7: Day Trip to Ancient Pula
Take a bus day trip from Rovinj to Pula, immersing yourself in Croatia's ancient Roman history and impressive archaeological sites.
Highlights
- For planning, the earliest outbound departure is 06:25 and the latest return departure is 20:30.
- Catch an early bus from Rovinj to Pula (earliest departure 06:25), a journey of approximately 45 minutes with providers like Brioni Pula d.o.o. or FlixBus.
- Visit the Pula Arena.
Day 8: Coastal Journey to Split
Undertake a longer bus journey along the Croatian coast to Split, arriving in time for an evening stroll along its famous Riva promenade.
Highlights
- Board a bus from Rovinj to Split, a journey typically taking around 10 hours with operators such as Autotrans by Arriva or FlixBus.
- Enjoy the scenic coastal views during your journey.
- Upon arrival, take an evening stroll along the Riva, Split’s lively seafront promenade, perfect for people-watching and harbour views.
Day 9: Imperial History in Split
Spend your day exploring Split's UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, a living monument to Roman imperial history, and its vibrant local life.
Highlights
- Discover Diocletian's Palace, an ancient Roman palace that forms the heart of Split's Old Town.
- Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, built from Diocletian’s mausoleum, showcasing Roman and medieval architecture.
- Wander through the Peristyle, the grand central square within the palace, and explore the bustling local markets.
Day 10: Depart from Split
Enjoy a final morning in Split, perhaps with some last-minute activities, before making your way to Split Airport (SPU) or the main bus station for your onward journey.
Highlights
- Consider a visit to Marjan Forest Park for walking trails and superb viewpoints over the city and sea.
- Do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Split's Old Town.
- Depart from Split Airport (SPU), located 25 km northwest of the city, accessible via shuttle bus, local bus, taxi, or rideshare.
