What can I say, I’m loving Italy. And I can’t wait to go back. This summer I travel to France and Italy and while I loved France, Italy quickly became my favorite country. The food ruined me. Do you hear me? RUINED. I haven’t had Italian food since July and it’s strictly because of Italy. The Italian food here in the states is fraudulent. I better not be asked to go to Maggiano’s any time soon. The answer is no. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you many of the places I ate as they were street vendors and such, but let me highlight the cities I visited. Before I get to my Italy highlights, check out my thoughts on France.
Pisa
We stopped into Pisa on the way in from Nice and spent just a little time here – a few hours to be exact. I saw the Leaning Tower and had a Panini and was on my way. Pisa was cute and charming so if you are close enough to get to it – go to see the tower. I loved getting to see the building that I only associated with a scene from A Goofy Movie – IYKYK. Anyway. The Leaning Tower was surrounded by street vendors and little cafes (and a McDonald’s!) to grab some lunch. I highly suggest visiting the Pisa Cathedral as well. Everything is right in one little square so you can get to everything in one visit. Go in one building and then visit the next. Overall I highly recommend Pisa if you are visiting Italy.
Florence
Florence. How beautiful! I fell in love with Florence the moment we stepped into the city. It was incredible. It gives small town but so much history. I stayed at Hotel California which had a beautiful rooftop patio where I would have a glass of wine every night. The hotel was historic and the rooms are not updated by any means so Just know it’s a historic building with keys that you must return when you leave for the day and you will get it back when you come in. It’s an actual old school key. Breakfast is included with your stay for an extra convenience. Hotel California is located right in the city center and within walking distance of Dumo di Florence. The rooftop at night has a beautiful view of the dome as well. Definitely a sight to see. I highly suggest staying here. It is surrounded by restaurants (there is an Eataly nearby as well!) and grocery stores if you want to grab some essentials for your room.
Rome
In Rome, I felt like it was another big city. Contrary to Florence, Rome did not wow me as much as I thought it would. This may be due to the fact that this was the end of a 10-day excursion and I was getting exhausted. My feet were hurting, I was tired, and I was starting to miss my bed. I do want to head back to Rome to give it another chance, but honestly I didn’t love it as much as Florence. I did have some really good pizza in Rome. Sat on the Spanish Steps, saw the Trevi Fountain. The Pantheon. The Coliseum. All the things. I want to go back to Rome to redo the Coliseum. We visited on a day that I was very tired and just wanted to get through the tour. I said all that to say, go to Rome. I need to go back and fully enjoy it. Summer 2025 is a little busy already, but maybe Summer 2025 will prove to be different.
One thing I learned about my trip is that the street vendors will want you to buy their items more aggressively than the deranged looking off-brand Mickey Mouse in Times Square. Just tell them no and keep it moving. I can’t wait to visit Europe again next summer. Europe may just be my Off Season destination of choice. Where should I go next?