Expert Recommendations for Amazing Itineraries

Officially recognized as one of “I Borghi più Belli d’Italia”, (the most beautiful villages in Italy) Nemi feels like a village suspended between myth and landscape. Perched on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater, the town overlooks the dark, reflective waters of Lake Nemi, creating one of the most atmospheric settings in the Castelli Romani. Narrow lanes, flower-filled balconies, and small piazzas invite slow wandering, while views over the lake appear unexpectedly around every corner. Long associated with the cult of Diana and centuries of ritual and legend, Nemi balances its deep history with a gentle, lived-in charm. It’s a place where beauty feels intimate rather than grand—quiet, timeless, and deeply rooted in its surroundings.

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.

Omnilingua Language School is centrally located on via Roma in Sanremo. I attended this school for only one week but I hope to return for longer. The classes were organized and our instructor was great a explaining difficult grammatical concepts. We went on a tour of Sanremo on the first morning which was fun and helpful to get to know the town. We did not need to purchase a book, but worked off of sheets provided by the staff. Everyone at the office was very nice and helpful and I enjoyed meeting my classmates from all over the world.

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 very quaint spot is a favorite with locals, offering a relaxed, authentic atmosphere and a menu focused primarily on cicchetti—small, flavorful bites meant for sharing. The bar features a thoughtfully curated wine list, making it an easy place to linger over a glass or two while sampling different dishes. With inviting outdoor seating, it’s a perfect stop for aperitivo or a casual evening, soaking up the neighborhood feel and enjoying Verona at a slower pace.

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.

This place is almost indescribable but what a joy it was! We heard about the fraschette as a traditional type of dining in Frascati, so we knew we needed to seek one out. If you love a big spread of charcuterie, this is the dinner spot for you. From generous charcuterie and cheese boards, grilled vegetables, creative bruschette, to house specialties like porchetta sandwiches and regional bites made from quality Italian ingredients, the food was delicious. But the venue is spectacular. The restaurant is in a cave (literally). You walk down steps and the tables are to the right and left as you walk down. This means that you do need to have a reservation because they don’t have many seats — and I highly recommend making one. The staff is kind, generous and friendly making it a night to remember!

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.

Just outside Rome, Palazzo Chigi in Ariccia is one of those rare places that feels wonderfully untouched by time. This 17th-century Baroque palace—designed by Bernini—remains remarkably preserved, with original furnishings, artworks, and décor that offer an authentic glimpse into aristocratic life. Walking through its rooms feels less like visiting a museum and more like being welcomed into a noble family’s home, frozen in the moment they stepped out. Tickets to visit Palazzo Chigi are typically about €10 for general admission, with reduced rates available for students and seniors. Guided visit options, which offer deeper insight into its Baroque interiors, are also available. The Palace has reduced hours in the winter so be sure to check the schedule before heading there.

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.

This pasticceria has the most beautiful cases full of chocolate, cream and berry concoctions.
They offer wonderful breads and other small bites. We stopped in for a coffee and a treat because it is located right next to the main Piazza delle Erbe.

Another lovely pasticceria in Verona which makes the Baci di Giulietta e Romeo, an authentic Veronese pastry, which pays homage to the famous Shakespearean couple, with two cookies that “kiss” each other to create a heart. They also sell delicious macarons and torta russa, another Veronese classic.

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.