The Colosseum in Rome. Copyright Leila Coe
Italy continues to be a top destination for first-time travelers to visit. Even though its a small country (slightly larger then the size of Arizona), it has many areas that are of high interest to travelers. Thankfully, getting around is made easy due to their high-speed train system that connects the major areas. Italy is full of wonders and rewards – the sights, the food, the wine, the art, the history, the people, the gelato…
Need help planning your trip to Italy – or beyond? Please email me or fill out a travel request form to get started!
Most first-time travelers to Italy visit the “Big 3″ – Rome, Florence and Venice.
- Rome – The capital city and a “must” for most travelers to Italy. Even though its not that large, its crammed full of sights, buildings and Vespas! The international airport has good connections for flights to/from the U.S. I normally recommend staying here for 3-4 nights – spend one day visiting the Ancient Roman sights (Recommended: Small group or private Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill) and spend one full day visiting the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s (Recommended sightseeing: Small group or private tour of these areas). With an extra 3rd full day, you could also do a day-trip to Pompeii and/or the Amalfi Coast.
- Florence – Florence is beautiful city and it also makes a great base for exploring the breath-taking Tuscan countryside. I normally recommend at least 3 nights in Florence, although the longer the better. Spend at least one full day in Florence visiting the two most famous museums (the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery – Recommended sightseeing: Small group tour, private tour or advanced ticket reservations) – both museums are “musts” even for those not too keen on regular museums but may be too much to do in one day (art overload!). Spend at least one full day on a guided day-trip to the surrounding Tuscan countryside – visit a vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting, see the medieval towns of Siena and San Gimignano, visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or enjoy a private dinner at a wine estate. Lots of options that you could easily spend a week in Florence and do a different day-trip each day! Cooking classes also available. Florence has a small airport but no direct flights to the U.S.
- Venice – Gorgeous Venice is like no where else. While it doesn’t have sights like the Colosseum or the Uffizi, it does have its own charm and treasures. I normally recommend at least 2 nights in Venice (i.e. one full day). Stay on the island of Venice so you are within walking distance to most of the major sights (public/private transport is expensive). Make sure to visit the Doge’s Palace (“behind the scenes” tour available), the San Marco Square and Basilica, and of course take a boat or gondola ride (pretty unavoidable!). If you have more time, you could do a day-trip to the Veneto area (great for Prosecco lovers) or spend a few hours on the neighboring islands of Murano, Burano, Lido, etc. Venice has an international airport on the mainland with good connections to the U.S.
Ready to plan your trip to Italy – or beyond? Please email me or fill out a travel request form to get started!
Other areas of Italy that you may want to visit:
- Milan – Milan is known as the fashion capital of Italy – and for good reason! I normally recommend 2 nights in Milan – 3 nights if you want to do a day-trip to the Lake Region. Hotel’s in Milan’s historical district tend to be quite pricey. Leonardo’s The Last Supper is in Milan – but in a dimly lit basement of a church (Recommended sightseeing is with a guide or with advanced reservations). Milan has several airports, including an international airport with good connections to the U.S.
- Amalfi Coast – The Amalfi Coast is the region south of Naples (which is south of Rome). I normally recommend at least 3 nights in this area as its difficult to get to/from. Sorrento is the largest town and the most easily accessible. Recommended sightseeing in this area is to the island of Capri (with a group or you can hire your own boat with skipper!), drives along the Amalfi Coast, and day-trips to Pompeii and/or Mt Vesuvius. Driving in this area is not recommended. Closest airport is in Naples – a 1-2 hour drive (private drivers available and are recommended).
- Cinque Terre - The “Five Towns” on the western coast of Italy – close to Pisa/Florence. Originally (and still) fishing villages, tourism has boomed along this coastal area thanks to their beauty as they cling to the side of the cliffs. A 3-night minimum stay is normally required (many hotels close during the winter). The towns are pretty inaccessible for cars but they are linked by regional train and hiking paths. A little difficult to get to but the views can be rewarding once you are there! Closest airports are Pisa and Florence (at least an hour by train) or Milan (about 2 hours by train).
Along the Arno in Florence. Copyright: Leila Coe
Additional Tips:
- Take the train! Trains connect all the major areas (90 minutes between Rome and Florence, 2.5 hours between Florence and Venice). Driving on your own is not recommended. Private drivers/car hire are available.
- Plan your time wisely! If you have a week, concentrate on two areas – don’t try to cram it all in! Book tours and sightseeing options in advance but allow free-time as well. You never know what else you want to see/do/eat until you get there!
- Flights: You can fly into one city (i.e. Rome) and out of another (i.e. Venice) – that way you don’t have to backtrack and waste time (and expense)!
- Book Tours in Advance: Whether you want to go with a small group, have a private guide, or just want tickets to the museums its best to book these options in advance. I am an expert in the options for Italy and can help you choose the best options to maximize your vacation experience.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: I can help you narrow down the many choices – I have “go to” hotels in each town (but I don’t share my secrets with everyone - contact me for more info!).
Need help planning your trip to Italy – or beyond? Please email me or fill out a travel request form to get started! I am also here to answer any questions and assist you every step of the way.
You may also be interested in my other website: WineBeerTours.com or find us on Facebook!
New for 2013 – River Cruises in Italy!
Grazie!
Leila Coe - Leila@WorldClassTravel.com
European Travel Specialist - www.GoYourOwnWayTravel.com
Contact: 407-504-6768
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