Italy welcomed us the way it always does, with beauty layered on history and moments that slow you down without asking permission.
We began our journey in Florence, a city that quickly felt like home. One of our first stops was the San Lorenzo Market, where the energy, food stalls, and craftsmanship pulled us right in. We picked up a few leather goods, the kind that feel timeless and personal.
From Florence, we rented a car and headed into Tuscany. The drive alone was unforgettable. Rolling hills, vineyards, and quiet roads set the tone as we explored San Gimignano and Volterra. That evening, we had a wonderful dinner at Fattoria Lavacchio, where farm to table food, local wine, and the setting itself made the experience special.
Back in Florence, we immersed ourselves in art and architecture. Seeing Michelangelo’s David in person is always powerful, and the Uffizi Gallery delivered masterpiece after masterpiece. We climbed Giotto’s Bell Tower, earning panoramic views of the city and a deeper appreciation for its history.
Food became part of the rhythm of each day. Great pizza, pork steak, incredible coffee, and long meals reminded us why Italy does simple food so well. We visited the Pitti Palace and walked the elevated corridor above the Ponte Vecchio, a unique and memorable way to experience one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks.
From there, we continued on to Rome, where history feels alive at every turn. Walking around Vatican City during the Jubilee celebrations was unforgettable. The city was filled with young people celebrating World Youth Day, and witnessing Pier Giorgio Frassati being named a saint was especially meaningful, given our personal connection to his story.
We explored the Jewish district and stayed in Trastevere, in a former convent turned hotel that once served as a filming location for Woody Allen. Evenings in Trastevere were some of our favorites, walking the narrow streets at night, enjoying great dinners, and simply watching the city move around us.
We visited Santa Cecilia in Trastevere and spent an unforgettable afternoon at the Borghese Gallery, one of my favorite places in the world to experience art. Dinners near Campo de’ Fiori capped off long days filled with walking and discovery.
No visit to Rome feels complete without standing inside the Pantheon, wandering the Roman Forum, and taking in the scale and history of the Colosseum.
It was only a few days, but Italy has a way of giving you more than time would suggest. Florence grounded us, Rome inspired us, and the moments in between reminded us why we already hope to return soon.
thetravelingmanager.com 