Expert Recommendations for Amazing Itineraries

The Mercato di Testaccio in Rome is a lively food market in the heart of the Testaccio neighborhood. Here, visitors can explore stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and Roman street food delights. From supplì to porchetta sandwiches, the market offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine amidst a bustling atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

The Mercato Sant’Ambrogio is a fresh food market with stalls of all kinds of different foods. There are stalls for fish, meat, pasta, veggies, fruit, spices and more. It’s so fun to walk through the stalls checking out all the interesting local ingredients. If you are a foodie and don’t want to brave the crowded of the Centrale Market, try this one instead!

The Mercato Storico Albinelli in Modena is a vibrant, historic market known for its colorful stalls and fresh local produce. Since 1931, it’s been a beloved spot to discover regional specialties like Parmigiano-Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and cured meats, offering an authentic taste of Emilian cuisine.
This is where you buy the 5Euro tiny bottles of authentic Balsamico di Modena vinegar to take home as a gift for all your friends!

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany, Montalcino exudes a timeless charm that captures the hearts of visitors from around the world. This picturesque hilltop town is renowned for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside and its rich cultural heritage. Montalcino is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most esteemed wines. Here, visitors can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, lined with ancient stone buildings and charming artisan shops, or explore the imposing fortress that dominates the town’s skyline. With its idyllic setting, centuries of history, and world-class wine, Montalcino offers a quintessential Tuscan experience that is as captivating as it is unforgettable.

Also known as the Victor Emmanuel II Monument, this imposing white building just before the Coliseum and the Roman Forum is the perfect place for a great view of the city. You can pay a few Euro to ride the elevator to the roof. Of course, you still have to make it up all those white marble steps, but I promise – it’s worth it! The elevator takes you to the top and from there, you can see all of Rome. You can see the roof of the Pantheon, the Coliseum and so much more. It’s a nice modern elevator with a quick ride to the top, we highly recommend this stop.

The Mura di Pisa (Pisa City Walls) are a historic and impressive set of fortifications that once protected the city. Stretching over 5 kilometers, the walls date back to the 12th century and were built to defend the city from invaders. Today, much of the walls remain intact, offering visitors the opportunity to walk along parts of them and explore their historical significance. The Mura di Pisa also provide beautiful views of the city, especially as you stroll through the green spaces that now surround the walls. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic walk, the Mura di Pisa offer a unique perspective of the city and its past.

The Museo delle Mura in Rome is dedicated to the history and preservation of the city’s ancient walls, offering a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s past. Located near Porta San Sebastiano, one of the best-preserved gates of the Aurelian Walls, the museum showcases artifacts, maps, and models that highlight the evolution of the city’s defensive structures. Visitors can explore the history of the walls from ancient times through the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, and even walk along parts of the preserved walls. With its blend of history, archaeology, and stunning views, the Museo delle Mura provides a unique perspective on Rome’s development and its lasting impact on the city’s architecture.

This restaurant, opened in September @2025, sits right on Piazza Michele Ferrero. They have outside seating but we chose to sit inside for our dinner, as the inside looked so warm and welcoming. They offer a very interesting three-course (and delicious!) tasting menu. The cuisine is typical of this region – but with some fun combinations, like a the “Piedmontese Agnolotti that speaks a different dialect” made with anchovy, garlic, oil and chili peppers! PS — Agnolotti is stuff pasta, like a smaller ravioli. Tronchettto is a chocolate-and-hazelnut sponge cake roll that is rolled like a “little log.” The service is lovely, the other guests are clearly enjoying themselves and we loved getting a taste of Piedmont.

The Museum of the Duomo is spectacular and can be included on your ticket to the Duomo. There is an open air balcony where you can see some amazing views of the dome. The museum is 3 floors ( there is an elevator ) with works from Donatello, Lorenzetti and more. The most famous piece is Michelangelo’s Pieta – a marble sculpture depicts the moment Christ’s body is taken down from the cross.

This restaurant is so quaint and offers really delicious food. In fact, the best meal I had in Italy was here at Belle Donne — their cinghiale stew over polenta. The service is exceptional and we loved seeing the working wine window from inside the restaurant! Each time we visit Florence, we make a point to save a meal for Belle Donne!

Osteria Cinghiale Bianco in Florence is a culinary gem tucked away in the historic heart of the city. From the moment you step through its doors, you’re greeted by an inviting ambiance that seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary flair. The menu showcases the best of Tuscan cuisine, with each dish thoughtfully prepared using locally sourced ingredients bursting with flavor. Whether indulging in their signature wild boar ragu or savoring a perfectly grilled Florentine steak, every bite is a celebration of traditional Italian cooking at its finest. Stanley Tucci enjoyed a meal at this Osteria in the Tuscany episode (#5).

This amazing restaurant has three Michelin stars and is known for the unique and innovative cuisine of Chef Massimo Bottura. It has consistently been recognized as one of the best restaurants in the world. It’s definitely a place for a special occasion. We both had the tasting menu and were confused and delighted by many of the dishes. It is necessary to get reservations and you must do so exactly six months before you plan to dine here.

Osteria La Sosta di Violante is a cozy spot in Siena known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent Tuscan cuisine. It’s named after Violante of Bavaria, the female 18th-century governor of Siena who helped shape the city’s cultural heritage. The menu features local favorites like pici pasta with rich sauces, hearty meats, and a great selection of regional wines. Tucked away on a quiet street, it feels like a hidden gem just steps from the city’s main sights. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner, this osteria is a great place to experience authentic Sienese flavors.

Osteria Pasquino in Rome is a cozy, traditional eatery known for its delicious Roman cuisine and inviting atmosphere. Located in the charming Piazza Pasquino, just steps away from Piazza Navona, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy classic Italian dishes like pasta alla carbonara, cacio e pepe, and saltimbocca alla Romana. The restaurant’s warm and rustic décor complements its authentic menu, making it feel like a true local gem. With its excellent food and friendly service, Osteria Pasquino offers a taste of Roman hospitality that’s hard to beat. Sit outside on a nice afternoon for an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of Rome.

The piazza at the Palazzo del Quirinale has the best view of the skyline of Rome. In the past, it was the palace for Popes, but now it is the palace of the President of Italy. You’ll see lots of security and at sunset, it gets crowded with tourists and Romans checking out the Eternal City from above. We loved to walk past it then down the stairs to get back to the center of things!

The Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici in Arezzo is a striking Renaissance building located in the heart of the city’s historic center. Originally built in the 14th century, it was the headquarters of the Fraternity of Laymen, a charitable organization. The building features an impressive façade with beautiful frescoes and is known for its tall, ornate clock tower. Visitors can climb the bell tower for a unique experience—reaching the top just in time to hear the bell ring. Inside, you’ll also find a museum showcasing the city’s rich art and history, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Arezzo.

The Palazzo Ducale di Parma is an elegant 16th-century palace located within the lush Parco Ducale, just across the river from Parma’s historic center. Once the residence of the Farnese and Bourbon dukes, it features refined Baroque architecture and beautifully decorated interiors, though today it houses government offices and is not open to the public. Its majestic façade and peaceful park setting make it a lovely sight for a stroll while exploring Parma’s noble past.

Parma is the proud birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano, the world-famous hard cheese known as “Parmesan.” Crafted for over 800 years in this fertile region, it’s made from raw cow’s milk and aged a minimum of 12 months to develop its nutty, savory, crystalline texture. Visiting Parma offers the chance to tour dairies, watch the intricate cheese-making process, and taste authentic Parmigiano Reggiano straight from the wheel—a true symbol of Italian culinary heritage.

Pasticceria Nannini is a renowned pastry shop in Siena, famous for its delicious traditional sweets and pastries. Established in 1950, it’s a local favorite for both residents and visitors seeking authentic Tuscan treats. The shop offers a wide variety of pastries, including the famous ricciarelli (soft almond cookies), panforte (a dense fruitcake), and cream-filled cornetti. Located near Piazza del Campo, it’s the perfect stop for a morning coffee or afternoon snack. With its long-standing history and dedication to quality, Pasticceria Nannini is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste the best of Siena’s sweet offerings.

Pasticceria Sal De Riso, located in the heart of Minori on the Amalfi Coast, is a renowned pastry shop famous for its delicious and beautifully crafted desserts. The bakery, led by the talented pastry chef Salvatore De Riso, is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It offers a wide range of traditional Italian pastries, including the famous delizia al limone (a lemon dessert), as well as other delicacies like tarts, cakes, and cannoli. The café also serves refreshing beverages and light bites, perfect for enjoying with a coffee or an afternoon treat on its patio facing the sea.