ROME
WHERE HISTORY WHISPERS ON EVERY CORNER
Our first stop was the Eternal City itself – Rome. Buckle up, because this city is an overload of history, culture, and architectural marvels. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum, a silent testament to the gladiatorial games of yore, to the Trevi Fountain, where we tossed a coin (with our backs turned, of course!) to ensure a return visit, Rome is a living museum waiting to be explored that had us immediately.
We toured through the Vatican City, marveling at Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and the sheer scale of St. Peter's Square. We got lost in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, a maze of cobbled streets lined with trattorias overflowing with locals and the most incredible pasta dishes we'd ever tasted.
Historical Aside
Did you know that Rome wasn't built in a day? Well, duh, you might say. But seriously, the city's history stretches back over 2,800 years, from its founding as a small settlement on the Palatine Hill to its rise as the powerful capital of the Roman Empire. Home of modern civilization, Christian history, & military, cultural and economic might.
Must See Sights
The Pantheon, an architectural marvel with its awe-inspiring dome, the Roman Forum, a sprawling archaeological site offering a glimpse into the heart of the ancient Roman Empire, and the Borghese Gallery, housing an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings. The Colloseum and Palatine Hill are also musts with a tour guide.
Pro Tip
Rome is a sprawling city, so comfortable shoes are a must. Consider purchasing a Roma Pass, which offers free entry to many of the city's top attractions and unlimited use of public transportation. Definitely get a guide for the Vatican & Colloseum!
Beyond the Tourist Trail: A Hidden Gem
One of the most unexpected highlights of our Roman adventure was a cooking class we stumbled upon in a charming little neighborhood trattoria. We spent the afternoon learning the secrets of authentic Roman pasta dishes from a passionate local chef, and let me tell you, the reward of devouring our creations (washed down with generous glasses of local wine) was pure magic.
Florence / TuscanY
A FEAST FOR THE SENSES (& THE SOUL)
From the religious and historical feast of Rome, we journeyed north to the cradle of the Renaissance – Florence. Talk about a city that oozes history from every brick! Wandering through the city center is like stepping into a living museum. The iconic Duomo (cathedral) with its Brunelleschi-designed dome dominates the skyline, while the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia house masterpieces by Michelangelo (Statue of David is here too!), da Vinci, and Botticelli.
Don't miss the chance to climb the Ponte Vecchio, the city's oldest bridge, lined with traditional goldsmith shops, or to lose yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Mercato Centrale, a feast for the senses with its overflowing stalls of fresh produce, cured meats, and local crafts. We even stumbled upon a hidden gem – a tiny wine bar tucked away down a side street, where the owner regaled us with tales of Florentine life over glasses of the region's finest Chianti.
A Tuscan Detour: San Gimignano's Medieval Magic (pictured)
No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to the enchanting San Gimignano. We stayed in a boutique hotel at a winery just outside this town. This charming hill town, nicknamed "Manhattan of the Middle Ages" for its numerous towers, is a time capsule waiting to be explored. We wandered through vine-clad alleyways, climbed a couple of the towers for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, & indulged in our fair share of local pecorino cheese (seriously, this cheese will change your life!).
Historical Aside
San Gimignano's towers were built by wealthy families as a symbol of their power and prestige. During the Middle Ages, the town boasted over 70 towers, but today, only 14 remain. Tall towers were there way of declaring wealth... are we much different today?
Must See Sights
Piazza del Duomo, the main square with its imposing cathedral, and the Rocca di Montestaffoli, a 14th-century fortress offering panoramic views. Don't forget to explore the town's many art galleries and shops selling local crafts like hand-painted ceramics and woven linens.
Pro Tip
San Gimignano is a popular day-trip destination from Florence, but if you have the time, consider staying overnight (even at a nearby winery like we did) to experience the town's magical atmosphere after the day-trippers have left.
Cinque Terre
WHERE SEA MEETS THE SKY (& MANAROLA STEALS YOUR HEART)
Next up, the crown jewel of the Italian Riviera – Cinque Terre. Picture five impossibly colorful UNESCO world heritage villages clinging precariously to cliffs overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean. Think pastel houses cascading down the hillside like spilled Skittles, and you've got the gist.
We drove to Cinque Terre (we rented a car for the whole trip), from Florence, making a pit stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa along the way (which is worth. a quick stop in our opinion).
Before too long you will find yourself taking in breathtaking glimpses of the villages before cruising past Riomaggiore, the southernmost of the bunch. Now, here's a hot tip – if you're short on time, consider basing yourself in one village and exploring the others via the well-maintained hiking paths that connect them or the train. We, however, were smitten with Manarola (can you blame us?) and decided to make it our home base. The 5 towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza & Monterosso.
Manarola is the middle child of the Cinque Terre siblings, and arguably the most picturesque. Think postcard-perfect squares, vibrant houses that look like they were painted with a sunset palette, and a harbor that seems straight out of a fairytale. We spent our days getting happily lost in the labyrinthine alleyways, stopping for espresso breaks on sunny terraces overlooking the sea, indulging in fresh seafood that practically leaped from the water onto our plates, and hiking between villages.
Historical Aside
Did you know that Cinque Terre's unique landscape was shaped by centuries of human interaction with the environment? Terraced vineyards clinging to the cliffs are a testament to generations of ingenuity, and the villages themselves were built as a form of defense against marauding pirates. Talk about a location with character!
Must See Sights
Don't miss the enchanting Via dell'Amore (Lover's Path) – a cliffside walking path connecting Manarola to Riomaggiore (pack your good walking shoes for this one) and offering stunning panoramic views. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a boat tour that takes you past all five villages, giving you a different perspective on this magical coastline. We rented kayaks which were a great self led tour!
Pro Tip
Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Try to visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for a more relaxed experience.
Lake Como
Where Luxury Meets Lakeside Charm
After our Cinque Terre adventure, we jumped back in the car after having not driven during our time in Cinque Terre, and headed north to the serene embrace of Lake Como. Picture turquoise waters reflecting snow-capped mountains, grand villas whispering stories of old money and glamorous parties, and charming little villages dotting the shoreline.
We based ourselves in Bellagio, the "Pearl of the Lake," a postcard-perfect town with cobbled streets, overflowing flower boxes, and lakeside promenades begging to be strolled upon hand-in-hand. We spent our days exploring the town's historical center, filled with quaint shops and charming cafes, and indulging in leisurely boat trips across the lake.
Historical Aside
Lake Como has been a playground for the rich and famous for centuries. Roman aristocrats built lavish villas here, and the tradition continued through the ages, with celebrities like George Clooney and Madonna snapping up properties in recent times.
Must See Sights
Take a boat tour to explore the lake's various towns and villas. Villa del Balbianello, perched dramatically on a promontory, is a must-see, as is the beautiful Isola Comacina, a tiny island with a rich history.
Pro Tip
If you're feeling fancy, treat yourselves to a stay at one of the lake's historic hotels. Many offer stunning views, luxurious amenities, and and impeccable service. For a more rustic experience, consider staying in one of the charming villages that dot the lakeshore.
Favorite Accommodation Options:
As our Italian adventure drew to a close, we sat on a terrace in Bellagio, Como, overlooking the lake in the golden glow of the setting sun. We raised a toast with glasses of Prosecco, not just to the incredible sights and experiences we'd shared, but to the 20 years of laughter, love, and adventure we'd built together.
Italy wasn't just a vacation; it was a reminder of the beauty of the world, the richness of history, and the simple joy of shared experiences. It was a love letter written in pasta, espresso, history, and breathtaking landscapes. So, if you're looking for an adventure that will leave you with a heart full of memories & a stomach full of delicious food, then pack your bags, grab your sweetheart (or best travel buddy!), and prego – Italy awaits!
