Introduction to the Italian Visa Itinerary Requirement

When applying for an Italian Schengen visa, one of the most critical documents you must submit is a detailed travel itinerary. This document serves as proof of your planned activities in Italy and the Schengen area, demonstrating to the consulate that you have a legitimate purpose for your visit and intend to return to your home country. The itinerary must be comprehensive, covering every day of your planned stay, including arrival and departure dates, accommodation details, transportation between cities, and planned activities.

The Italian consulate requires this document to assess several key aspects of your application: the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, visiting family, etc.), the logical flow of your travel plans, your financial ability to support the trip, and most importantly, your intention to return home after your visit. A well-prepared itinerary can significantly increase your chances of visa approval, while a poorly constructed one can lead to immediate rejection.

Downloading the Official Italian Visa Itinerary Template

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation provides an official template for the travel itinerary, which is often referred to as “Program of Stay” or “Day-by-Day Itinerary.” While some visa application centers may accept a self-made itinerary, using the official template is highly recommended as it ensures you include all required information in the correct format.

Where to Download the Official Template

  1. Official Website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Visit the official portal at www.esteri.it and navigate to the “Visa” section. Look for “Document Forms” or “Application Forms” where you’ll find the “Program of Stay” template.

  2. VFS Global or TLScontact: If you’re applying through a visa application center like VFS Global or TLScontact, you can download the template from their website under the document checklist for Italian visas.

  3. Italian Consulate Website: Your local Italian consulate’s website will have a dedicated visa section with downloadable forms and templates.

Direct Download Links (Note: These may change, so always verify on official sites)

If you cannot find the official template, you can create your own using the structure provided in the next section. However, always check with your specific consulate or visa application center for their exact requirements.

How to Fill Out the Italian Visa Itinerary Template

Filling out the itinerary correctly is crucial. Each section must be completed accurately and honestly. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to complete each part of the template.

1. Personal Information Section

At the top of the template, you’ll need to provide your personal details:

  • Surname (Cognome): Your last name as it appears on your passport
  • Name (Nome): Your first name as it appears on your passport
  1. Date of Birth (Data di Nascita): DD/MM/YYYY format
  • Place of Birth (Luogo di Nascita): City and country of birth
  • Passport Number (Numero di Passaporto): Your passport number
  • Nationality (Nazionalità): Your current nationality

Example:

Surname: SMITH
Name: JOHN
Date of Birth: 15/05/1985
Place of Birth: NEW YORK, USA
Passport Number: 123456789
Nationality: USA

2. Travel Information Section

This section requires details about your planned trip:

  • Purpose of Stay (Scopo del Soggiorno): Select from tourism, business, visiting family/friends, study, medical treatment, etc.
  • Date of Entry (Data di Ingresso): The date you plan to enter the Schengen area (first entry point)
  • Date of Exit (Data di Uscita): The date you plan to exit the Schengen area (last exit point)
  • Main Destination (Destinazione Principale): Italy (since you’re applying for an Italian visa)
  • Number of Entries (Numero di Ingressi): Single, Double, or Multiple

Example:

Purpose of Stay: TOURISM
Date of Entry: 01/06/2024
Date of Exit: 15/06/2024
Main Destination: ITALY
Number of Entries: SINGLE

3. Day-by-Day Itinerary Section

This is the most important part of the document. You must provide a detailed breakdown of each day of your stay in the Schengen area. For each day, include:

  • Date: The specific date of the activity
  • City/Location: The city or location where you’ll be staying
  • Accommodation: Hotel name and address, or other accommodation details
  • Transportation: How you’ll travel between cities (flight/train/bus details)
  • Activities: Brief description of planned activities

Example of a 5-day itinerary:

Date City/Location Accommodation Transportation Activities
01/06/2024 Rome Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome Flight AA123 from JFK to FCO Arrival at Fiumicino Airport, check-in, evening walk around Colosseum area
02/06/2024 Rome Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 084 Rome Metro Line B to Vatican Vatican Museums tour (pre-booked), St. Peter’s Basilica, evening at Trastevere
03/06/2024 Florence Hotel Duomo, Via de’ Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence Frecciarossa train from Rome to Florence (10:00-11:30) Check-in, Uffizi Gallery tour, Ponte Vecchio, sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
04/06/2024 Florence Hotel Duomo, Via de’ Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence Walking Duomo Cathedral climb, Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, shopping on Via de’ Tornabuoni
05/06/2024 Venice Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice Frecciarossa train from Florence to Venice (14:00-16:30) Check-in, St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, evening gondola ride
06/06/2024 Venice Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice Vaporetto Line 1 Rialto Bridge, Grand Canal tour, Murano Island visit (glass factory tour)
07/06/2024 Milan Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 20121 Milan Frecciarossa train from Venice to Milan (11:00-14:00) Check-in, Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, evening at Navigli District
08/06/2024 Milan Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 121 Milan Malpensa Express train to MXP Last-minute shopping, departure from Malpensa Airport (MXP) to JFK (AA124)

4. Transportation Details

For each inter-city travel, provide specific details:

  • Flight: Airline, flight number, departure/arrival airports and times
  • Train: Train type (Frecciarossa, Italo), departure/arrival stations and times
  • Bus: Bus company, departure/arrival locations and times
  • Car Rental: Rental company, pickup/drop-off locations and dates

Example:

03/06/2024: Rome to Florence
- Train: Frecciarossa 9505
- Departure: Roma Termini, 10:00
- Arrival: Firenze Santa Maria Novella, 11:30
- Booking Reference: ABC123XYZ

5. Accommodation Details

For each night, provide the full address and contact information of your accommodation:

  • Hotel Name: Full official name
  • Address: Street, number, postal code, city
  • Contact: Phone number and email (if available)
  • Booking Reference: Confirmation number from your reservation

Example:

Hotel Roma
Via Nazionale 7
00184 Rome, Italy
Phone: +39 06 1234567
Email: info@hotelroma.it
Booking Reference: HR20240601

6. Activities Description

For each day, provide a brief but specific description of your planned activities. This shows the consulate that you have a well-thought-out plan and aren’t just “passing through.”

Good Example (Specific): “Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum tour (pre-booked ticket #12345). Afternoon: Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. Evening: Dinner at Ristorante da Enzo al 29 (reservation #R20240601).”

Bad Example (Vague): “Rome sightseeing”

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Common Reasons for Italian Visa Rejection Related to Itinerary

Understanding why visas get rejected can help you avoid common pitfalls. Here are the most frequent itinerary-related reasons for Italian visa rejection:

1. Inconsistent or Illogical Travel Dates

Problem: The dates in your itinerary don’t match the dates in your flight bookings, hotel reservations, or other documents.

Example of Rejection: You submit an itinerary showing you’ll be in Rome from June 1-5, but your hotel booking is only for June 1-3 and you have a flight booking for June 4 from Rome to Paris (not Italy). This inconsistency raises red flags.

Solution: Ensure all dates across all documents are perfectly aligned. Use the same date format (DD/MM/YYYY) everywhere. Double-check that:

  • Your entry/exit dates match your flight bookings
  • Your accommodation dates cover every night of your stay
  • Your inter-city travel dates are consistent with train/flight bookings

2. Insufficient Detail in Day-by-Day Activities

Problem: Your itinerary is too vague, showing only city names without specific activities or accommodation details.

Example of Rejection:

Day 1: Rome
Day 1: Florence
Day 3: Venice

This is insufficient and will be rejected.

Solution: Provide at least 2-3 specific activities per day, with times if possible. Include:

  • Specific attractions with pre-booked ticket numbers
  • Restaurant reservations
  • Guided tours with booking references
  • Specific neighborhoods you’ll visit

3. Overly Ambitious Itinerary (Rushing)

Problem: Trying to cover too many cities in too short a time, making it physically impossible.

Example of Rejection:

Day 1: Arrive Rome 8:00 AM
Day 1: Train to Florence 10:00 AM
Day 1: Train to Venice 2:00 PM
Day 1: Train to Milan 6:00 PM

This is unrealistic and will be rejected.

Solution: Be realistic about travel times. A good rule of thumb:

  • Minimum 2 nights in major cities (Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan)
  • Minimum 1 night in smaller cities
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours between arrival in a city and any planned activities
  • Include rest days or free days in your itinerary

4. Missing Accommodation Details

Problem: Not providing complete hotel information or using “to be booked” placeholders.

Example of Rejection:

Day 1: Rome - Hotel to be booked

This is unacceptable.

Solution: Book refundable hotels before applying. Provide complete details:

  • Full hotel name
  • Complete address (street, number, postal code, city)
  • Phone number
  • Booking confirmation number
  • If staying with friends/family: provide their full details and an invitation letter

5. Inconsistent Financial Proof

Question: How does your itinerary relate to financial proof?

Answer: Your daily spending estimates in the itinerary must align with the funds shown in your bank statements.

Example of Rejection: Your itinerary shows luxury hotels (€300/night) and fine dining, but your bank statements show only €1000 available for the entire trip.

Solution: Be realistic about your budget. If you’re budget traveling, show budget accommodation and activities. If you’re luxury traveling, ensure your financial documents support this lifestyle.

Solutions to Common Itinerary-Related Rejection Issues

Solution 1: Use a Professional Itinerary Format

Create your itinerary in a clear, professional format. Use a table structure like this:

DAY | DATE | CITY | ACCOMMODATION | TRANSPORT | ACTIVITIES
1 | 01/06/2024 | Rome | Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7 | AA123 JFK-FCO | Arrival, check-in, Colosseum area walk
2 | 02/06/2024 | Rome | Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7 | Metro B | Vatican Museums (ticket #12345), St. Peter's

Solution 2: Pre-book Everything Possible

To avoid “to be booked” issues, pre-book:

  • Hotels: Use booking.com with free cancellation
  • Trains: Use Trenitalia or Italo with flexible tickets
  • Museums: Pre-book major attractions (Vatican, Uffizi, etc.)
  • Flights: Book refundable tickets or use a travel agent

Example of Pre-booked Details:

Accommodation: Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome
Booking: Booking.com #BC20240601 (free cancellation until 24 hours before)
Transport: Frecciarossa 9505, Roma Termini to Firenze SMN, 10:00-11:30
Ticket: Trenitalia #TR20240603 (flexible ticket)
Activities: Vatican Museums, ticket #VM20240602, 09:00-12:00

Solution 3: Create a Realistic Pace

Follow this template for a balanced itinerary:

For a 7-day trip:

  • Days 1-2: Rome (arrival, major sights)
  • Days 3-4: Florence (Tuscany day trip possible)
  • Days 5-6: Venice
  • Day 7: Milan (departure)

For a 10-day trip:

  • Days 1-3: Rome
  • Days 4-5: Florence + Tuscany
  • Days 6-7: Venice
  • Days 8-9: Milan + Lake Como
  • Day 10: Departure

For a 14-day trip:

  • Days 1-4: Rome + Ostia Antica
  • Days 5-7: Florence + Siena/San Gimignano
  • Days 8-10: Venice + Verona
  • Days 11-13: Milan + Lake Como + Cinque Terre
  • Day 14: Departure

Solution 4: Address Specific Rejection Reasons

If you’ve been rejected before, address the specific reason in your new application:

Example: “Purpose of stay not credible”

  • Add a cover letter explaining your specific interest in Italy
  • Include photos from previous trips (if any)
  • Show membership in Italian cultural organizations
  • Include a detailed letter from your employer confirming your job and approved leave

Example: “Insufficient funds”

  • Provide 6 months of bank statements
  • Include a sponsorship letter if someone else is paying
  • Show credit card statements with high limits
  • Provide proof of assets (property, investments)

Solution 5: Include Round-Trip Flight Bookings

Always include confirmed round-trip flight bookings showing:

  • Your departure from home country to Italy
  • Your return from Italy to home country
  • Important: These should be refundable or changeable tickets

Example:

Outbound: AA123, JFK → FCO, 01/06/2024, 18:00 → 08:00+1
Return: AA124, MXP → JFK, 08/06/2024, 14:00 → 18:00
Booking Reference: ABC123
Status: Confirmed (Refundable until 24 hours before departure)

Sample Complete Itinerary for 7-Day Italian Tour

Here’s a complete sample itinerary you can use as a template:

# TRAVEL ITINERARY FOR ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION

## Personal Information
Surname: SMITH
Name: JOHN
Date of Birth: 15/05/1985
Place of Birth: NEW YORK, USA
Passport Number: 123456789
Nationality: USA

## Trip Details
Purpose of Stay: TOURISM
Date of Entry: 01/06/2024
Date of Exit: 15/06/2024
Main Destination: ITALY
Number of Entries: SINGLE

## Day-by-Day Itinerary

### Day 1: June 1, 2024 (Saturday) - Arrival in Rome
- **Location**: Rome, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome, Italy
  - Phone: +39 06 1234567
  - Email: info@hotelroma.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240601 (Free cancellation until May 31)
- **Transportation**: 
  - Flight AA123: New York (JFK) → Rome Fiumicino (FCO)
  - Departure: 01/06/2024, 18:00 EST
  - Arrival: 02/06/2024, 08:00 CET
  - Booking: AA123, Confirmation ABC123
- **Activities**:
  - 09:00: Arrival at Fiumicino Airport, clear immigration
  - 10:30: Transfer to Hotel Roma via Leonardo Express train
  - 12:00: Check-in and lunch near hotel
  - 15:00: Walk to Colosseum area (exterior view, photos)
  - 17:00: Walk through Roman Forum
  - 19:00: Dinner at Ristorante da Enzo al 29 (Reservation #R20240601)
  - 21:00: Return to hotel

### Day 2: June 2, 2024 (Sunday) - Vatican City
- **Location**: Rome, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome, Italy
- **Transportation**: Metro Line B (Termini → Ottaviano)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:30: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Vatican Museums tour (Pre-booked ticket #VM20240602, 09:00-12:00)
  - 12:30: St. Peter's Basilica (Free entry, ticket not required)
  - 14:00: Lunch at Pizzarium Bonci (Via della Meloria 43)
  - 15:30: Castel Sant'Angelo (Ticket #CS20240602)
  - 18:00: Walk along Tiber River to Ponte Sant'Angelo
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria da Cesare al Casaletto (Reservation #R20240602)
  - 21:30: Return to hotel via Metro

### Day 3: June 3, 2024 (Monday) - Rome to Florence
- **Location**: Florence, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Duomo, Via de' Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence, Italy
  - Phone: +39 055 2345678
  - Email: info@hotelduomo.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240603 (Free cancellation until June 2)
- **Transportation**:
  - Train: Frecciarossa 9505
  - Departure: Roma Termini, 10:00
  - Arrival: Firenze Santa Maria Novella, 11:30
  - Booking: Trenitalia #TR20240603 (Flexible ticket)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel, check-out
  - 09:00: Transfer to Roma Termini station
  - 10:00-11:30: Train to Florence
  - 12:00: Check-in at Hotel Duomo
  - 13:00: Lunch near Duomo
  - 14:30: Duomo Cathedral climb (Ticket #DC20240603, 14:30-16:00)
  - 16:30: Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower (Ticket #DC20240603)
  - 18:00: Walk to Ponte Vecchio
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria ZaZa (Reservation #R20240603)
  - 21:00: Evening walk around Piazza della Signoria

### Day 4: June 4, 2024 (Tuesday) - Florence
- **Location**: Florence, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Duomo, Via de' Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence, Italy
- **Transportation**: Walking
- **Activities**:
  - 08:30: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Uffizi Gallery tour (Pre-booked ticket #UF20240604, 09:00-12:00)
  - 12:30: Lunch at Mercato Centrale (2nd floor)
  - 14:00: Walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views
  - 16:00: Shopping on Via de' Tornabuoni
  - 18:00: Visit Pitti Palace (Ticket #PP20240604)
  - 19:30: Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori (Reservation #R20240604)
  - 21:00: Gelato at Gelateria dei Neri

### Day 5: June 5, 2024 (Wednesday) - Florence to Venice
- **Location**: Venice, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice, Italy
  - Phone: +39 041 2345678
  - Email: info@hotelcanalgrande.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240605 (Free cancellation until June 4)
- **Transportation**:
  - Train: Frecciarossa 9525
  - Departure: Firenze SMN, 14:00
  - Arrival: Venezia Santa Lucia, 16:30
  - Booking: Trenitalia #TR20240605 (Flexible ticket)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel, check-out
  - 09:00: Morning walk to Piazza della Repubblica
  - 11:00: Transfer to Florence station
  - 14:00-16:30: Train to Venice
  - 17:00: Check-in at Hotel Canal Grande
  - 18:00: Walk to St. Mark's Square
  - 19:00: Gondola ride (Reservation #G20240605, 19:00-19:30)
  - 20:00: Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere (Reservation #R20240605)
  - 21:30: Evening walk along Riva degli Schiavoni

### Day 6: June 6, 2024 (Thursday) - Venice
- **Location**: Venice, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice, Italy
- **Transportation**: Vaporetto Line 1
- **Activities**:
  - 08:30: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Doge's Palace tour (Ticket #DP20240606, 09:00-11:00)
  - 11:30: St. Mark's Basilica (Free entry)
  - 13:00: Lunch at Rosticceria Gislon
  - 14:30: Vaporetto to Rialto Bridge
  - 15:00: Explore Rialto Market area
  - 16:30: Vaporetto to Murano Island
  - 17:00: Murano glass factory tour (Reservation #M20240606)
  - 18:30: Return to Venice main island
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria al Gazzettino (Reservation #R20240606)
  - 21:00: Evening walk through Dorsoduro district

### Day 7: June 7, 2024 (Friday) - Venice to Milan
- **Location**: Milan, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 20121 Milan, Italy
  - Phone: +39 02 3456789
  - Email: info@hotelmilano.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240607 (Free cancellation until June 6)
- **Transportation**:
  - Train: Frecciarossa 9545
  - Departure: Venezia Santa Lucia, 11:00
  - Arrival: Milano Centrale, 14:00
  - Booking: Trenitalia #TR20240607 (Flexible ticket)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel, check-out
  - 09:00: Morning walk to Bridge of Sighs
  - 10:00: Transfer to Venice station
  - 11:00-14:00: Train to Milan
  - 14:30: Check-in at Hotel Milano
  - 15:30: Duomo di Milano (Ticket #DM20240607, 15:30-17:00)
  - 17:30: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  - 18:30: Walk to Navigli District
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria Milanese (Reservation #R20240607)
  - 21:00: Evening aperitivo at Navigli canals

### Day 8: June 8, 2024 (Saturday) - Milan Departure
- **Location**: Milan, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 20121 Milan, Italy
- **Transportation**: Malpensa Express
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Last-minute shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  - 11:00: Check-out from hotel
  - 12:00: Malpensa Express train to Malpensa Airport (MXP)
  - 14:00: Flight AA124: Milan Malpensa (MXP) → New York (JFK)
  - Departure: 14:00 CET
  - Arrival: 18:00 EST
  - Booking: AA124, Confirmation ABC124

## Additional Notes
- All hotel bookings are refundable until 24 hours before arrival
- All train tickets are flexible and can be changed
- All museum tickets are pre-booked and non-refundable
- Travel insurance: Allianz Global Assistance, Policy #AGA20240601
- Daily budget: €150 per day (accommodation, meals, transport, activities)
- Total estimated cost: €1,200

## Contact Information in Italy
Emergency Contact: +39 331 1234567 (Mobile)
Italian Embassy in Washington: +1 202 612 4400
US Embassy in Rome: +39 06 46741

## Declaration
I, John Smith, declare that the above itinerary is accurate and reflects my genuine travel plans. I have booked refundable accommodation and transport, and I intend to return to the USA after my visit to Italy.

Signature: _________________
Date: 15/05/2024

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Consistent Formatting

  • Use the same date format throughout (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • Use consistent currency (€)
  • Use proper hotel address format (street, number, postal code, city, country)

2. Include Supporting Documents

Attach to your itinerary:

  • Hotel booking confirmations (showing free cancellation)
  • Train ticket confirmations (showing flexible tickets)
  • Museum ticket confirmations
  • Flight booking confirmations
  • Travel insurance policy
  • Credit card statements (showing available credit)

3. Be Honest About Your Plans

  • Don’t overbook activities
  • Include rest days
  • Be realistic about travel times
  • If you have specific needs (dietary, mobility), mention them

4. Prepare for the Visa Interview

If called for an interview, be ready to explain:

  • Why you chose these specific cities
  • How you’re traveling between cities
  • Where you’re staying each night
  • What you plan to do each day
  • How you’re funding the trip

5. Follow Up on Your Application

After submission:

  • Keep copies of everything
  • Note your application reference number
  • Check processing times on the consulate website
  • Be prepared to provide additional documents if requested

Final Checklist Before Submission

  • [ ] All dates match across documents
  • [ ] Complete accommodation details for every night
  • [ ] Specific activities listed for each day
  • [ ] Transportation details between cities
  • [ ] Round-trip flight bookings included
  • [ ] Travel insurance included
  • [ ] Financial documents aligned with itinerary budget
  • [ ] Signature and date on itinerary
  • [ ] All bookings are refundable/flexible
  • [ ] Professional formatting
  • [ ] No gaps in accommodation or activities

By following this comprehensive guide and using the provided template, you’ll create a strong, credible travel itinerary that satisfies Italian visa requirements and significantly increases your chances of approval. Remember, the key is to demonstrate that you have a well-planned, legitimate trip with clear intentions to return home after your visit.# Italian Visa Itinerary Template Download and Filling Guide: Including Common Rejection Issues and Solutions

Introduction to the Italian Visa Itinerary Requirement

When applying for an Italian Schengen visa, one of the most critical documents you must submit is a detailed travel itinerary. This document serves as proof of your planned activities in Italy and the Schengen area, demonstrating to the consulate that you have a legitimate purpose for your visit and intend to return to your home country. The itinerary must be comprehensive, covering every day of your planned stay, including arrival and departure dates, accommodation details, transportation between cities, and planned activities.

The Italian consulate requires this document to assess several key aspects of your application: the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, visiting family, etc.), the logical flow of your travel plans, your financial ability to support the trip, and most importantly, your intention to return home after your visit. A well-prepared itinerary can significantly increase your chances of visa approval, while a poorly constructed one can lead to immediate rejection.

Downloading the Official Italian Visa Itinerary Template

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation provides an official template for the travel itinerary, which is often referred to as “Program of Stay” or “Day-by-Day Itinerary.” While some visa application centers may accept a self-made itinerary, using the official template is highly recommended as it ensures you include all required information in the correct format.

Where to Download the Official Template

  1. Official Website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Visit the official portal at www.esteri.it and navigate to the “Visa” section. Look for “Document Forms” or “Application Forms” where you’ll find the “Program of Stay” template.

  2. VFS Global or TLScontact: If you’re applying through a visa application center like VFS Global or TLScontact, you can download the template from their website under the document checklist for Italian visas.

  3. Italian Consulate Website: Your local Italian consulate’s website will have a dedicated visa section with downloadable forms and templates.

Direct Download Links (Note: These may change, so always verify on official sites)

If you cannot find the official template, you can create your own using the structure provided in the next section. However, always check with your specific consulate or visa application center for their exact requirements.

How to Fill Out the Italian Visa Itinerary Template

Filling out the itinerary correctly is crucial. Each section must be completed accurately and honestly. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to complete each part of the template.

1. Personal Information Section

At the top of the template, you’ll need to provide your personal details:

  • Surname (Cognome): Your last name as it appears on your passport
  • Name (Nome): Your first name as it appears on your passport
  1. Date of Birth (Data di Nascita): DD/MM/YYYY format
  • Place of Birth (Luogo di Nascita): City and country of birth
  • Passport Number (Numero di Passaporto): Your passport number
  • Nationality (Nazionalità): Your current nationality

Example:

Surname: SMITH
Name: JOHN
Date of Birth: 15/05/1985
Place of Birth: NEW YORK, USA
Passport Number: 123456789
Nationality: USA

2. Travel Information Section

This section requires details about your planned trip:

  • Purpose of Stay (Scopo del Soggiorno): Select from tourism, business, visiting family/friends, study, medical treatment, etc.
  • Date of Entry (Data di Ingresso): The date you plan to enter the Schengen area (first entry point)
  • Date of Exit (Data di Uscita): The date you plan to exit the Schengen area (last exit point)
  • Main Destination (Destinazione Principale): Italy (since you’re applying for an Italian visa)
  • Number of Entries (Numero di Ingressi): Single, Double, or Multiple

Example:

Purpose of Stay: TOURISM
Date of Entry: 01/06/2024
Date of Exit: 15/06/2024
Main Destination: ITALY
Number of Entries: SINGLE

3. Day-by-Day Itinerary Section

This is the most important part of the document. You must provide a detailed breakdown of each day of your stay in the Schengen area. For each day, include:

  • Date: The specific date of the activity
  • City/Location: The city or location where you’ll be staying
  • Accommodation: Hotel name and address, or other accommodation details
  • Transportation: How you’ll travel between cities (flight/train/bus details)
  • Activities: Brief description of planned activities

Example of a 5-day itinerary:

Date City/Location Accommodation Transportation Activities
01/06/2024 Rome Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome Flight AA123 from JFK to FCO Arrival at Fiumicino Airport, check-in, evening walk around Colosseum area
02/06/2024 Rome Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 084 Rome Metro Line B to Vatican Vatican Museums tour (pre-booked), St. Peter’s Basilica, evening at Trastevere
03/06/2024 Florence Hotel Duomo, Via de’ Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence Frecciarossa train from Rome to Florence (10:00-11:30) Check-in, Uffizi Gallery tour, Ponte Vecchio, sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
04/06/2024 Florence Hotel Duomo, Via de’ Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence Walking Duomo Cathedral climb, Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, shopping on Via de’ Tornabuoni
05/06/2024 Venice Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice Frecciarossa train from Florence to Venice (14:00-16:30) Check-in, St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, evening gondola ride
06/06/2024 Venice Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice Vaporetto Line 1 Rialto Bridge, Grand Canal tour, Murano Island visit (glass factory tour)
07/06/2024 Milan Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 20121 Milan Frecciarossa train from Venice to Milan (11:00-14:00) Check-in, Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, evening at Navigli District
08/06/2024 Milan Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 121 Milan Malpensa Express train to MXP Last-minute shopping, departure from Malpensa Airport (MXP) to JFK (AA124)

4. Transportation Details

For each inter-city travel, provide specific details:

  • Flight: Airline, flight number, departure/arrival airports and times
  • Train: Train type (Frecciarossa, Italo), departure/arrival stations and times
  • Bus: Bus company, departure/arrival locations and times
  • Car Rental: Rental company, pickup/drop-off locations and dates

Example:

03/06/2024: Rome to Florence
- Train: Frecciarossa 9505
- Departure: Roma Termini, 10:00
- Arrival: Firenze Santa Maria Novella, 11:30
- Booking Reference: ABC123XYZ

5. Accommodation Details

For each night, provide the full address and contact information of your accommodation:

  • Hotel Name: Full official name
  • Address: Street, number, postal code, city
  • Contact: Phone number and email (if available)
  • Booking Reference: Confirmation number from your reservation

Example:

Hotel Roma
Via Nazionale 7
00184 Rome, Italy
Phone: +39 06 1234567
Email: info@hotelroma.it
Booking Reference: HR20240601

6. Activities Description

For each day, provide a brief but specific description of your planned activities. This shows the consulate that you have a well-thought-out plan and aren’t just “passing through.”

Good Example (Specific): “Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum tour (pre-booked ticket #12345). Afternoon: Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. Evening: Dinner at Ristorante da Enzo al 29 (reservation #R20240601).”

Bad Example (Vague): “Rome sightseeing”

Common Reasons for Italian Visa Rejection Related to Itinerary

Understanding why visas get rejected can help you avoid common pitfalls. Here are the most frequent itinerary-related reasons for Italian visa rejection:

1. Inconsistent or Illogical Travel Dates

Problem: The dates in your itinerary don’t match the dates in your flight bookings, hotel reservations, or other documents.

Example of Rejection: You submit an itinerary showing you’ll be in Rome from June 1-5, but your hotel booking is only for June 1-3 and you have a flight booking for June 4 from Rome to Paris (not Italy). This inconsistency raises red flags.

Solution: Ensure all dates across all documents are perfectly aligned. Use the same date format (DD/MM/YYYY) everywhere. Double-check that:

  • Your entry/exit dates match your flight bookings
  • Your accommodation dates cover every night of your stay
  • Your inter-city travel dates are consistent with train/flight bookings

2. Insufficient Detail in Day-by-Day Activities

Problem: Your itinerary is too vague, showing only city names without specific activities or accommodation details.

Example of Rejection:

Day 1: Rome
Day 1: Florence
Day 3: Venice

This is insufficient and will be rejected.

Solution: Provide at least 2-3 specific activities per day, with times if possible. Include:

  • Specific attractions with pre-booked ticket numbers
  • Restaurant reservations
  • Guided tours with booking references
  • Specific neighborhoods you’ll visit

3. Overly Ambitious Itinerary (Rushing)

Problem: Trying to cover too many cities in too short a time, making it physically impossible.

Example of Rejection:

Day 1: Arrive Rome 8:00 AM
Day 1: Train to Florence 10:00 AM
Day 1: Train to Venice 2:00 PM
Day 1: Train to Milan 6:00 PM

This is unrealistic and will be rejected.

Solution: Be realistic about travel times. A good rule of thumb:

  • Minimum 2 nights in major cities (Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan)
  • Minimum 1 night in smaller cities
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours between arrival in a city and any planned activities
  • Include rest days or free days in your itinerary

4. Missing Accommodation Details

Problem: Not providing complete hotel information or using “to be booked” placeholders.

Example of Rejection:

Day 1: Rome - Hotel to be booked

This is unacceptable.

Solution: Book refundable hotels before applying. Provide complete details:

  • Full hotel name
  • Complete address (street, number, postal code, city)
  • Phone number
  • Booking confirmation number
  • If staying with friends/family: provide their full details and an invitation letter

5. Inconsistent Financial Proof

Question: How does your itinerary relate to financial proof?

Answer: Your daily spending estimates in the itinerary must align with the funds shown in your bank statements.

Example of Rejection: Your itinerary shows luxury hotels (€300/night) and fine dining, but your bank statements show only €1000 available for the entire trip.

Solution: Be realistic about your budget. If you’re budget traveling, show budget accommodation and activities. If you’re luxury traveling, ensure your financial documents support this lifestyle.

Solutions to Common Itinerary-Related Rejection Issues

Solution 1: Use a Professional Itinerary Format

Create your itinerary in a clear, professional format. Use a table structure like this:

DAY | DATE | CITY | ACCOMMODATION | TRANSPORT | ACTIVITIES
1 | 01/06/2024 | Rome | Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7 | AA123 JFK-FCO | Arrival, check-in, Colosseum area walk
2 | 02/06/2024 | Rome | Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7 | Metro B | Vatican Museums (ticket #12345), St. Peter's

Solution 2: Pre-book Everything Possible

To avoid “to be booked” issues, pre-book:

  • Hotels: Use booking.com with free cancellation
  • Trains: Use Trenitalia or Italo with flexible tickets
  • Museums: Pre-book major attractions (Vatican, Uffizi, etc.)
  • Flights: Book refundable tickets or use a travel agent

Example of Pre-booked Details:

Accommodation: Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome
Booking: Booking.com #BC20240601 (free cancellation until 24 hours before)
Transport: Frecciarossa 9505, Roma Termini to Firenze SMN, 10:00-11:30
Ticket: Trenitalia #TR20240603 (flexible ticket)
Activities: Vatican Museums, ticket #VM20240602, 09:00-12:00

Solution 3: Create a Realistic Pace

Follow this template for a balanced itinerary:

For a 7-day trip:

  • Days 1-2: Rome (arrival, major sights)
  • Days 3-4: Florence (Tuscany day trip possible)
  • Days 5-6: Venice
  • Day 7: Milan (departure)

For a 10-day trip:

  • Days 1-3: Rome
  • Days 4-5: Florence + Tuscany
  • Days 6-7: Venice
  • Days 8-9: Milan + Lake Como
  • Day 10: Departure

For a 14-day trip:

  • Days 1-4: Rome + Ostia Antica
  • Days 5-7: Florence + Siena/San Gimignano
  • Days 8-10: Venice + Verona
  • Days 11-13: Milan + Lake Como + Cinque Terre
  • Day 14: Departure

Solution 4: Address Specific Rejection Reasons

If you’ve been rejected before, address the specific reason in your new application:

Example: “Purpose of stay not credible”

  • Add a cover letter explaining your specific interest in Italy
  • Include photos from previous trips (if any)
  • Show membership in Italian cultural organizations
  • Include a detailed letter from your employer confirming your job and approved leave

Example: “Insufficient funds”

  • Provide 6 months of bank statements
  • Include a sponsorship letter if someone else is paying
  • Show credit card statements with high limits
  • Provide proof of assets (property, investments)

Solution 5: Include Round-Trip Flight Bookings

Always include confirmed round-trip flight bookings showing:

  • Your departure from home country to Italy
  • Your return from Italy to home country
  • Important: These should be refundable or changeable tickets

Example:

Outbound: AA123, JFK → FCO, 01/06/2024, 18:00 → 08:00+1
Return: AA124, MXP → JFK, 08/06/2024, 14:00 → 18:00
Booking Reference: ABC123
Status: Confirmed (Refundable until 24 hours before departure)

Sample Complete Itinerary for 7-Day Italian Tour

Here’s a complete sample itinerary you can use as a template:

# TRAVEL ITINERARY FOR ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION

## Personal Information
Surname: SMITH
Name: JOHN
Date of Birth: 15/05/1985
Place of Birth: NEW YORK, USA
Passport Number: 123456789
Nationality: USA

## Trip Details
Purpose of Stay: TOURISM
Date of Entry: 01/06/2024
Date of Exit: 15/06/2024
Main Destination: ITALY
Number of Entries: SINGLE

## Day-by-Day Itinerary

### Day 1: June 1, 2024 (Saturday) - Arrival in Rome
- **Location**: Rome, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome, Italy
  - Phone: +39 06 1234567
  - Email: info@hotelroma.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240601 (Free cancellation until May 31)
- **Transportation**: 
  - Flight AA123: New York (JFK) → Rome Fiumicino (FCO)
  - Departure: 01/06/2024, 18:00 EST
  - Arrival: 02/06/2024, 08:00 CET
  - Booking: AA123, Confirmation ABC123
- **Activities**:
  - 09:00: Arrival at Fiumicino Airport, clear immigration
  - 10:30: Transfer to Hotel Roma via Leonardo Express train
  - 12:00: Check-in and lunch near hotel
  - 15:00: Walk to Colosseum area (exterior view, photos)
  - 17:00: Walk through Roman Forum
  - 19:00: Dinner at Ristorante da Enzo al 29 (Reservation #R20240601)
  - 21:00: Return to hotel

### Day 2: June 2, 2024 (Sunday) - Vatican City
- **Location**: Rome, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Roma, Via Nazionale 7, 00184 Rome, Italy
- **Transportation**: Metro Line B (Termini → Ottaviano)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:30: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Vatican Museums tour (Pre-booked ticket #VM20240602, 09:00-12:00)
  - 12:30: St. Peter's Basilica (Free entry, ticket not required)
  - 14:00: Lunch at Pizzarium Bonci (Via della Meloria 43)
  - 15:30: Castel Sant'Angelo (Ticket #CS20240602)
  - 18:00: Walk along Tiber River to Ponte Sant'Angelo
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria da Cesare al Casaletto (Reservation #R20240602)
  - 21:30: Return to hotel via Metro

### Day 3: June 3, 2024 (Monday) - Rome to Florence
- **Location**: Florence, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Duomo, Via de' Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence, Italy
  - Phone: +39 055 2345678
  - Email: info@hotelduomo.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240603 (Free cancellation until June 2)
- **Transportation**:
  - Train: Frecciarossa 9505
  - Departure: Roma Termini, 10:00
  - Arrival: Firenze Santa Maria Novella, 11:30
  - Booking: Trenitalia #TR20240603 (Flexible ticket)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel, check-out
  - 09:00: Transfer to Roma Termini station
  - 10:00-11:30: Train to Florence
  - 12:00: Check-in at Hotel Duomo
  - 13:00: Lunch near Duomo
  - 14:30: Duomo Cathedral climb (Ticket #DC20240603, 14:30-16:00)
  - 16:30: Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower (Ticket #DC20240603)
  - 18:00: Walk to Ponte Vecchio
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria ZaZa (Reservation #R20240603)
  - 21:00: Evening walk around Piazza della Signoria

### Day 4: June 4, 2024 (Tuesday) - Florence
- **Location**: Florence, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Duomo, Via de' Cerretani 1, 50123 Florence, Italy
- **Transportation**: Walking
- **Activities**:
  - 08:30: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Uffizi Gallery tour (Pre-booked ticket #UF20240604, 09:00-12:00)
  - 12:30: Lunch at Mercato Centrale (2nd floor)
  - 14:00: Walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views
  - 16:00: Shopping on Via de' Tornabuoni
  - 18:00: Visit Pitti Palace (Ticket #PP20240604)
  - 19:30: Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori (Reservation #R20240604)
  - 21:00: Gelato at Gelateria dei Neri

### Day 5: June 5, 2024 (Wednesday) - Florence to Venice
- **Location**: Venice, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice, Italy
  - Phone: +39 041 2345678
  - Email: info@hotelcanalgrande.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240605 (Free cancellation until June 4)
- **Transportation**:
  - Train: Frecciarossa 9525
  - Departure: Firenze SMN, 14:00
  - Arrival: Venezia Santa Lucia, 16:30
  - Booking: Trenitalia #TR20240605 (Flexible ticket)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel, check-out
  - 09:00: Morning walk to Piazza della Repubblica
  - 11:00: Transfer to Florence station
  - 14:00-16:30: Train to Venice
  - 17:00: Check-in at Hotel Canal Grande
  - 18:00: Walk to St. Mark's Square
  - 19:00: Gondola ride (Reservation #G20240605, 19:00-19:30)
  - 20:00: Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere (Reservation #R20240605)
  - 21:30: Evening walk along Riva degli Schiavoni

### Day 6: June 6, 2024 (Thursday) - Venice
- **Location**: Venice, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Canal Grande, Riva degli Schiavoni 4149, 30122 Venice, Italy
- **Transportation**: Vaporetto Line 1
- **Activities**:
  - 08:30: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Doge's Palace tour (Ticket #DP20240606, 09:00-11:00)
  - 11:30: St. Mark's Basilica (Free entry)
  - 13:00: Lunch at Rosticceria Gislon
  - 14:30: Vaporetto to Rialto Bridge
  - 15:00: Explore Rialto Market area
  - 16:30: Vaporetto to Murano Island
  - 17:00: Murano glass factory tour (Reservation #M20240606)
  - 18:30: Return to Venice main island
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria al Gazzettino (Reservation #R20240606)
  - 21:00: Evening walk through Dorsoduro district

### Day 7: June 7, 2024 (Friday) - Venice to Milan
- **Location**: Milan, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 20121 Milan, Italy
  - Phone: +39 02 3456789
  - Email: info@hotelmilano.it
  - Booking: Booking.com #BC20240607 (Free cancellation until June 6)
- **Transportation**:
  - Train: Frecciarossa 9545
  - Departure: Venezia Santa Lucia, 11:00
  - Arrival: Milano Centrale, 14:00
  - Booking: Trenitalia #TR20240607 (Flexible ticket)
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel, check-out
  - 09:00: Morning walk to Bridge of Sighs
  - 10:00: Transfer to Venice station
  - 11:00-14:00: Train to Milan
  - 14:30: Check-in at Hotel Milano
  - 15:30: Duomo di Milano (Ticket #DM20240607, 15:30-17:00)
  - 17:30: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  - 18:30: Walk to Navigli District
  - 19:30: Dinner at Trattoria Milanese (Reservation #R20240607)
  - 21:00: Evening aperitivo at Navigli canals

### Day 8: June 8, 2024 (Saturday) - Milan Departure
- **Location**: Milan, Italy
- **Accommodation**: Hotel Milano, Via Silvio Pellico 4, 20121 Milan, Italy
- **Transportation**: Malpensa Express
- **Activities**:
  - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel
  - 09:00: Last-minute shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  - 11:00: Check-out from hotel
  - 12:00: Malpensa Express train to Malpensa Airport (MXP)
  - 14:00: Flight AA124: Milan Malpensa (MXP) → New York (JFK)
  - Departure: 14:00 CET
  - Arrival: 18:00 EST
  - Booking: AA124, Confirmation ABC124

## Additional Notes
- All hotel bookings are refundable until 24 hours before arrival
- All train tickets are flexible and can be changed
- All museum tickets are pre-booked and non-refundable
- Travel insurance: Allianz Global Assistance, Policy #AGA20240601
- Daily budget: €150 per day (accommodation, meals, transport, activities)
- Total estimated cost: €1,200

## Contact Information in Italy
Emergency Contact: +39 331 1234567 (Mobile)
Italian Embassy in Washington: +1 202 612 4400
US Embassy in Rome: +39 06 46741

## Declaration
I, John Smith, declare that the above itinerary is accurate and reflects my genuine travel plans. I have booked refundable accommodation and transport, and I intend to return to the USA after my visit to Italy.

Signature: _________________
Date: 15/05/2024

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Consistent Formatting

  • Use the same date format throughout (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • Use consistent currency (€)
  • Use proper hotel address format (street, number, postal code, city, country)

2. Include Supporting Documents

Attach to your itinerary:

  • Hotel booking confirmations (showing free cancellation)
  • Train ticket confirmations (showing flexible tickets)
  • Museum ticket confirmations
  • Flight booking confirmations
  • Travel insurance policy
  • Credit card statements (showing available credit)

3. Be Honest About Your Plans

  • Don’t overbook activities
  • Include rest days
  • Be realistic about travel times
  • If you have specific needs (dietary, mobility), mention them

4. Prepare for the Visa Interview

If called for an interview, be ready to explain:

  • Why you chose these specific cities
  • How you’re traveling between cities
  • Where you’re staying each night
  • What you plan to do each day
  • How you’re funding the trip

5. Follow Up on Your Application

After submission:

  • Keep copies of everything
  • Note your application reference number
  • Check processing times on the consulate website
  • Be prepared to provide additional documents if requested

Final Checklist Before Submission

  • [ ] All dates match across documents
  • [ ] Complete accommodation details for every night
  • [ ] Specific activities listed for each day
  • [ ] Transportation details between cities
  • [ ] Round-trip flight bookings included
  • [ ] Travel insurance included
  • [ ] Financial documents aligned with itinerary budget
  • [ ] Signature and date on itinerary
  • [ ] All bookings are refundable/flexible
  • [ ] Professional formatting
  • [ ] No gaps in accommodation or activities

By following this comprehensive guide and using the provided template, you’ll create a strong, credible travel itinerary that satisfies Italian visa requirements and significantly increases your chances of approval. Remember, the key is to demonstrate that you have a well-planned, legitimate trip with clear intentions to return home after your visit.