Expert Recommendations for Amazing Itineraries

The first stone of the city’s cathedral was laid in 1099 and the construction continued until 1184. The church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We enjoyed touring the inside of the church and it’s magnificent bell tower, known as the Ghirlandina. The carvings on the outside of the church are intricate and unique, well worth the visit alone.

Siena’s Duomo is a stunning mix of black-and-white marble that stands out in the heart of the city. Inside, its striped columns and intricate mosaic floors make it one of Italy’s most beautiful churches. The Piccolomini Library, with its colorful frescoes, is a hidden gem worth exploring. For an incredible view over Siena, climb up to the panoramic terrace. Whether you love history, art, or just a great view, this cathedral is a must-see.

This great enoteca is at the top of the hill and has a huge variety of wines to try. You can select the amount of your pour as well. Since it’s at the top of the hill, it’s a quick walk to the Comune building, the Piazza Grande and the Cattedrale.

The Ferrari Museum was a fun stop when we visited Modena. It’s easy to walk to from the train station and we enjoyed touring the slick, modern museum and seeing all the famous cars. We had a quick bite to eat in their lobby cafe which we enjoyed! It’s a fun stop in Modena.

If you leave the city out of the Porta Berarda, walking down the Via Guiseppe Maffei, you’ll come to a beautiful church and park, just outside the city gates.
This park is a quiet place to sit for a minute and enjoy the lovely views.

There is a legend that if you can roll a coin down the Porcellino’s tongue, you’ll have good luck. You can tell it is a well known story as the bronze statue’s nose is shiny from people rubbing it for luck! The statue is at the end of one of the big famous leather markets in town, so make sure to take time to peruse the stalls for a new wallet, purse or belt. In the evening, when the stalls are closed, there is space for musicians to setup and serende the evening crowd.

This tiny gelato shop is my exception to the rule. I normally say not to stop at the places right in the tourist areas, but this gelato is so delicious it makes sense to grab a double on a cone and find a spot in the piazza to enjoy it and people watch.

This small ristorante in the Monti neighborhood of Rome has the most delicious Cacio e Pepe pasta. Their cute tables outside are perfect for a nice dinner!

This amazing restaurant is an Instagram phenomenon. Set in a cave, every table has the view of a lifetime. The menu is extravagant and expensive but worth every penny. The food is delicious, the service is impeccable and it will definitely be a memorable evening. Reservations are hard to get so plan accordingly but if you have a special occasion while in Italy and are putting Puglia on your itinerary, this restaurant will be perfect for your celebration!

Yes, there is a picture of Guy Fieri on the wall. But it makes sense because the pizza is delicious. 10/10 — definitely recommend and can’t wait to go back. It’s right by the Piazza di Santo Spirito so don’t miss that when you are there.

This hotel is the perfect place to spend your first or last night in Italy if you are using FCO airport in Rome. You can literally walk to the hotel from the airport, the rooms are safe and clean, and they have the best breakfast buffet I’ve ever seen. After a good night sleep, you can wake up refreshed and head to the train station at the airport. There is a connection to Roma Termini where you can get to almost anywhere in the country quickly. There is a direct train from FCO to Santa Maria Novella in Florence (it does stop in Termini but you don’t change trains) and in 2 hours, you’ll be at the Duomo!

Hotel & Ristorante Pupetto, located in Positano on the Amalfi Coast, is a charming and picturesque spot offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. The hotel provides a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, with rooms that feature traditional Mediterranean decor and breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding cliffs. The restaurant, renowned for its delicious seafood and classic Italian dishes, offers an ideal setting for a meal by the water. Guests can enjoy fresh local ingredients, including the catch of the day, while taking in the panoramic vistas.

This is our “Home away from Home” on the Amalfi Coast of Bella Italia. We have stayed there 20 Times over the last 26 years and 14 members of our family and many friends have joined us there.

This small and beautiful hotel is truly family run and has been since 1968 when the Cinque family converted it from a 17th century palazzo.

We have always been treated as part of the family and consider ourselves that way. The included colazione is delicious and several years ago the family opened a chic high end Ristorante, “Don Giovanni” on their picturesque terrace overlook the sea. The hotel is quite popular and there are just 16 rooms, most with sea view terraces, so reservations during peak season must be made very well in advance.

Hotel Plaza e de Russie is a luxurious seaside hotel known for its elegance and impeccable service (it’s a Relais & Chateaux property). Located along the stunning promenade, it offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean and easy access to the beach. The hotel is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant L’Assaggio, where guests can indulge in gourmet dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients, providing an unforgettable dining experience.

Located in Trastevere, this boutique hotel has spacious rooms and gorgeous courtyard. Breakfast is delicious and they even serve a happy hour for guests! They also have family friendly rooms where your kids can have their own beds. The location is really perfect if you want to stay in Trastevere.

Il Cavallino Bianco offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a delightful spot for a meal, close to the Campo. The menu features authentic Italian dishes, including local Tuscan specialties, Whether you’re craving classic pasta dishes or a hearty Florentine steak, Il Cavallino Bianco provides a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine.

Il Teatro Cucina Toscana in Montepulciano offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine. Located near the Teatro Poliziano, it’s the perfect spot for a meal after exploring the town. The menu features local specialties like homemade pasta, Florentine steak, and classic desserts. With friendly service and a charming setting, it’s an ideal choice for both casual dining and or a special dinner.

One of the best meals we had in Italy, and after a few months of only Italian food, we loved the change of cuisine. We had the traditional tikka masala along with rice and naan, and my favorite papadum. The service was warm and friendly and being located in central Florence. it makes it a good option if you are somehow tired of Italian food.

Isola Tiburtina is the small island in the middle of the Tiber river. You can access it from the Trastevere side, walk all the way around it and exit on the Campo di Fiore side. We stopped for lunch at a cute cafe right near the Basilica. It’s fun afternoon spot and a nice place to walk for a bit.

This restaurant is right at next to the Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso in Matera. The service is exceptional and the food was perfect for a lunch on a warm day in Matera. Had an excellent plate of pasta – braised beef under tagliatelle with a special pistachio sauce. Insanely good.