Italy

A lot of planning went into this trip in order to make the most of our time across the pond. We were able to visit Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Venice, Milan, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Tuscany, and the Vatican in September 2022. Here are the videos recapping that time.

Rome is a city rich in history, culture, and incredible food. Here are some top recommendations to make the most of your visit:

Must-See Attractions

1. Colosseum: Start your journey at this iconic ancient amphitheater.

2. Roman Forum: Wander through the ruins of what was once the heart of ancient Rome.

3. Vatican City: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel.

4. Pantheon: Marvel at this ancient temple with its impressive dome.

5. Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome.

Hidden Gems

1. Trastevere: Explore this charming neighborhood known for its narrow streets and vibrant nightlife.

2. Villa Borghese: Enjoy art and nature at this beautiful park and gallery.

3. Testaccio: Discover local markets and authentic Roman cuisine.

Food and Drink

1. Pasta and Pizza: Try classic dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and Roman-style pizza.

2. Gelato: Indulge in some of the best gelato at places like Giolitti or Gelateria del Teatro.

3. Coffee: Experience Italian coffee culture at a local café.

Tips for Your Visit

– Book Tickets in Advance: For popular sites like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums, it’s best to book tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines.

– Wear Comfortable Shoes: Rome’s cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet, so comfortable footwear is a must.

– Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle and refill it at the many public fountains around the city.

Suggested Itineraries

– One Day: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and a quick visit to Vatican City.

– Three Days: Add the Borghese Gallery, Trastevere, and more time exploring Vatican City.

– One Week: Dive deeper into neighborhoods like Testaccio and Monti, and take a day trip to nearby sites like Ostia Antica.

Naples is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Here are some top recommendations for your visit:

Must-See Attractions

1. Pompeii: Just a short trip from Naples, explore the ancient ruins of this city preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

2. Naples National Archaeological Museum: Home to an extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including many from Pompeii.

3. Castel dell’Ovo: This seaside castle offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Naples.

4. Spaccanapoli: Walk through this narrow street that cuts through the historic center, full of shops, churches, and local life.

5. Sansevero Chapel: Marvel at the Veiled Christ, a stunning marble sculpture.

Hidden Gems

1. Certosa e Museo di San Martino: Enjoy panoramic views of Naples and visit the museum housed in this former monastery.

2. Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea): Discover the ancient underground tunnels and aqueducts beneath the city.

3. Vomero District: A hilly area with great shopping, dining, and views over the city.

Food and Drink

1. Neapolitan Pizza: Try the original pizza at famous pizzerias like Da Michele or Sorbillo.

2. Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes at local trattorias.

3. Pastries: Don’t miss sfogliatella and babà, two traditional Neapolitan pastries.

4. Coffee: Experience the strong and rich Neapolitan espresso at a local café.

Tips for Your Visit

– Stay Alert: Naples is a bustling city, so keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

– Use Public Transport: The metro and buses are convenient for getting around the city.

– Day Trips: Consider day trips to nearby destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Sorrento.

Suggested Itineraries

– One Day: Visit Pompeii, explore the historic center, and enjoy a pizza dinner.

– Three Days: Add visits to the Archaeological Museum, Castel dell’Ovo, and a day trip to Capri.

– One Week: Dive deeper into neighborhoods like Vomero and Chiaia, and take trips to the Amalfi Coast and Mount Vesuvius.

Pompeii is an incredible destination, offering a unique glimpse into ancient Roman life. Here are some recommendations to help you make the most of your visit:

Must-See Attractions

1. The Forum: The center of public life in ancient Pompeii, where you can see the remains of temples, markets, and public buildings.

2. The Amphitheater: One of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters, it could hold up to 20,000 spectators.

3. The House of the Vettii: A well-preserved house with beautiful frescoes and an insight into the lifestyle of wealthy Pompeians.

4. The Villa of the Mysteries: Famous for its well-preserved frescoes depicting mysterious initiation rites.

5. The Baths: Explore the Stabian, Forum, and Suburban Baths to see how Romans enjoyed their leisure time.

Hidden Gems

1. Garden of the Fugitives: A poignant site where plaster casts of victims of the eruption can be seen.

2. Lupanar: The ancient brothel, with its preserved frescoes and graffiti.

3. House of the Faun: One of the largest and most impressive houses in Pompeii, known for its mosaics.

Tips for Visiting

– Guided Tours: Consider booking a guided tour to get detailed insights into the history and significance of the sites.

– Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on uneven ancient streets.

– Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially during the summer months.

– Combine Visits: Pair your visit to Pompeii with a trip to nearby Herculaneum or Mount Vesuvius for a fuller experience.

Suggested Itineraries

– Half-Day: Focus on the Forum, Amphitheater, and a couple of houses like the House of the Vettii.

– Full Day: Explore more extensively, including the Villa of the Mysteries, the Baths, and some hidden gems.

– Two Days: Take your time to see everything, including a visit to Herculaneum and a hike up Mount Vesuvius.

Venice is a magical city with its canals, historic architecture, and rich culture. Here are some top recommendations for your visit:

Must-See Attractions

1. St. Mark’s Basilica: This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.

2. Doge’s Palace: Explore the former residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government.

3. Rialto Bridge: One of the most famous bridges in Venice, offering beautiful views of the Grand Canal.

4. Grand Canal: Take a vaporetto (water bus) or a gondola ride to experience Venice from the water.

5. Bridge of Sighs: This iconic bridge connects the Doge’s Palace to the prisons and offers a glimpse into Venice’s history.

Hidden Gems

1. Cannaregio District: A quieter area with charming canals, local shops, and the historic Jewish Ghetto.

2. Libreria Acqua Alta: A unique bookstore where books are stored in bathtubs and gondolas to protect them from flooding.

3. San Giorgio Maggiore: Take the elevator to the top of the bell tower for a panoramic view of Venice.

Food and Drink

1. Cicchetti: Try these Venetian tapas at a local bacaro (wine bar).

2. Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto).

3. Gelato: Indulge in some of the best gelato at places like Gelateria Nico or Suso Gelatoteca.

Tips for Your Visit

– Avoid Peak Times: Visit popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

– Get Lost: Part of Venice’s charm is wandering through its narrow streets and discovering hidden corners.

– Public Transport: Use the vaporetto for an affordable way to get around the city.

Suggested Itineraries

– One Day: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and a gondola ride.

– Three Days: Add visits to the Grand Canal, Cannaregio District, and a day trip to Murano and Burano islands.

– One Week: Explore more neighborhoods like Dorsoduro and Castello, and take a trip to the nearby islands of Torcello and Lido.

Milan is a dynamic city known for its fashion, design, and rich history. Here are some top recommendations for your visit:

Must-See Attractions

1. Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano): This iconic Gothic cathedral took over 600 years to complete and offers stunning architecture and rooftop views.

2. The Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie): See Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: One of the world’s oldest shopping malls, known for its beautiful architecture and luxury shops.

4. Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco): Explore this historic fortress that houses several museums and art collections.

5. Teatro alla Scala: Visit one of the most famous opera houses in the world.

Hidden Gems

1. Navigli District: Enjoy the canals, vibrant nightlife, and charming restaurants.

2. Brera District: Wander through this artistic neighborhood with galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafes.

3. Cimitero Monumentale: A stunning cemetery known for its elaborate tombs and sculptures.

Food and Drink

1. Risotto alla Milanese: Try this classic saffron-infused risotto.

2. Cotoletta alla Milanese: Enjoy this breaded veal cutlet, a Milanese specialty.

3. Aperitivo: Experience the local tradition of pre-dinner drinks and snacks, especially in the Navigli area.

Tips for Your Visit

– Book Tickets in Advance: For popular attractions like The Last Supper and the Duomo, it’s best to book tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines.

– Public Transport: Use Milan’s efficient metro and tram system to get around the city.

– Fashion and Shopping: Don’t miss the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s high-end fashion district.

Suggested Itineraries

– One Day: Visit the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and The Last Supper.

– Three Days: Add Sforza Castle, the Brera District, and an evening in the Navigli District.

– One Week: Explore more neighborhoods like Porta Nuova and Isola, and take a day trip to Lake Como.

Cinque Terre is a stunning coastal region in Italy, known for its five picturesque villages, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful hiking trails. Here are some top recommendations for your visit:

Must-See Villages

1. Riomaggiore: The southernmost village, known for its colorful houses and the start of the Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane) trail.

2. Manarola: Famous for its iconic views and beautiful harbor. It’s a great spot for sunset views.

3. Corniglia: The only village not directly on the water, offering stunning panoramic views from its hilltop location.

4. Vernazza: Known for its charming harbor, small beach, and vibrant piazza.

5. Monterosso al Mare: The largest village with the best beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Activities and Experiences

1. Hiking: The Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) connects all five villages and offers breathtaking views of the coastline.

2. Swimming: Find a spot to swim in the clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, especially in Monterosso al Mare.

3. Sunset Views: Catch the sunset from a viewpoint overlooking Manarola or Vernazza.

4. Aperitivo: Enjoy an aperitivo at Nessun Dorma in Manarola, a cliffside bar with stunning views.

Tips for Your Visit

– Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially if you plan to hike between the villages.

– Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven paths and trails.

– Public Transport: Use the train to travel between the villages if you prefer not to hike.

– Avoid Peak Times: Visit popular spots early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

Suggested Itineraries

– One Day: Visit Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Vernazza, focusing on the highlights of each village.

– Three Days: Explore all five villages, hike the Blue Trail, and enjoy some beach time in Monterosso al Mare.

– One Week: Take your time to fully explore each village, enjoy multiple hikes, and take day trips to nearby attractions like Portovenere.

Tuscany is a beautiful region in central Italy, known for its rolling hills, historic cities, and world-renowned wine. Here are some top recommendations for your visit:

Must-See Cities and Towns

1. Florence: The capital of Tuscany, famous for its art, architecture, and history. Don’t miss the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David, and the stunning Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze).

2. Siena: Known for its medieval architecture and the famous Palio horse race. Visit the Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral.

3. Pisa: Home to the iconic Leaning Tower, as well as the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli.

4. San Gimignano: A small town known for its medieval towers and charming streets.

5. Lucca: Famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and lovely historic center.

Wine Regions

1. Chianti: Explore the vineyards and wineries in this famous wine region. Try the local Chianti Classico wine.

2. Montalcino: Known for Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines.

3. Montepulciano: Visit this hilltop town and taste the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Activities and Experiences

1. Hiking and Biking: Enjoy the scenic landscapes by hiking or biking through the Tuscan countryside.

2. Cooking Classes: Learn to make traditional Tuscan dishes in a local cooking class.

3. Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs like those in Saturnia.

Tips for Your Visit

– Rent a Car: To fully explore the region, consider renting a car. The countryside and small towns are best accessed by car.

– Stay in an Agriturismo: Experience rural Tuscany by staying in a farmhouse or vineyard.

– Visit in Spring or Fall: These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months.

Suggested Itineraries

– Three Days: Focus on Florence and take a day trip to Siena or Pisa.

– Five Days: Add visits to San Gimignano and the Chianti wine region.

– One Week: Explore more towns like Lucca and Montepulciano, and enjoy activities like wine tasting and hiking.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.