Rome and Venice are Italy's two most iconic cities and could not be more different: the ancient imperial capital and the dreamlike floating city. In five days the honest split is three days for Rome and two for Venice, connected by a fast train of under four hours. They are far apart, so skip squeezing Florence in between this trip; two contrasting cities done well beat three rushed. Book the headline sights and enjoy the swing from ruins to canals.
No car ever, least of all in Venice; the high-speed train links the two directly. Book the Colosseum and the Vatican in Rome and the Doge's Palace in Venice, and base centrally so you can walk.
5-Day Rome and Venice Itinerary
Days 1-3: Rome
The ancient core, the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine, the Pantheon and Baroque fountains, and a day for the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter's. Evenings in Trastevere.
Day 4: Train North to Venice
A morning fast train north (under four hours), arriving by water into Venice, then a first wander: St Mark's Square, the Rialto, and a sunset on the Grand Canal. A magical contrast.
Day 5: Venice
St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, getting lost in the quiet back lanes, and a sunset gondola through the side canals. The floating-city finale.
Q&A: Rome and Venice in 5 Days
Is 5 days enough for Rome and Venice?
Yes: three days for Rome's huge highlights and two for compact Venice make a striking, well-balanced trip. The cities are wonderfully different, and a fast train links them, so five days works well.
How do I get between them?
By high-speed train in under four hours, city center to city center; book ahead for the best fares. You arrive into Venice by water, with no car needed or wanted at either end.
Should I stop in Florence between them?
Not in five days; the train passes near Florence, but adding it means rushing all three. Save Florence for a longer trip and give Rome and Venice their due here.
Is a gondola ride worth it?
For the romance, yes, especially at sunset through the quiet back canals rather than the busy Grand Canal. Agree the fixed price first, and it becomes a memorable Venice moment.
When should I go?
Spring and fall for comfortable weather and lighter crowds; book the big sights regardless. Summer is hot and packed, and Venice can flood (acqua alta) in late fall, though it is atmospheric then.