For three unforgettable weeks, our Italian adventure was filled with history, culture, food, and breathtaking scenery. From the bustling streets of Rome to the beauty of Lake Como, every stop brought laughter and unforgettable memories. This trip, two years in the making, was a special celebration of a milestone birthday for our co-owner Misty, shared with family and close friends.

Rome: The Eternal City

The journey began with a long, but smooth flight to Rome, arriving early in the morning. The first goal was to stay as close to the Trevi Fountain as possible, and little did we know, our hotel would be just a stone’s throw from the iconic landmark. The rooftop terrace provided stunning views, making it the perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere.

Exploring Rome meant walking...lots of walking! Over 20,000 steps led us to incredible sites, including (of course) the Colosseum! This ancient amphitheater, once home to gladiator battles, remains one of the most visited landmarks in the world. After a delicious Trofie Pesto pasta for lunch, we made our way to Vatican City, home to the smallest country in the world. The Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel were overwhelming to put it lightly, but in the best way . Seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece in person was a surreal experience.

The day ended with a guided night tour of Rome, complete with a gelato tasting, a perfect way to wind down in the city’s magical nighttime glow.

Bologna: The Heart of Italian Cuisine

A morning trip to the Trevi Fountain for photos was the perfect farewell to Rome before heading north to Bologna, known as the food capital of Italy. The city also served as a convenient base for a highly anticipated visit to the Lamborghini factory. Bologna’s charm came a live in its quaint streets and squares. Dinner consisted of an incredible spread of meats, cheeses, and local specialties.

The highlight was the Lamborghini Museum tour. Though getting there was an adventure of its own, the reward was well worth it. Seeing these luxury supercars up close was a thrilling experience. The day ended with a meal filled with laughter as we reminisced about the day's mishaps.

Pisa and Florence: A Taste of Tuscany

Next, we headed to Pisa, a charming town best known for its iconic Leaning Tower. A guided tour allowed us to climb the tower, explore the cathedral, and enjoy a large-pour wine tasting. While Pisa is a town that can be explored in a day, we took full advantage of the second day by venturing to Florence. Florence was bursting with energy, offering some of the best food of the trip. One of our favorites was a "wine window," where we had wine served through a tiny historical opening.

Sicily: A Personal Pilgrimage

Sicily quickly became a favorite stop. The trip held deep personal significance, as Misty's husband Dominick’s parents were from a small town in the region. Arriving in Palermo, the vibrant Sicilian culture was on full display! Men playing Scopa on the streets and women watching the world from their windows. The journey to Ventimiglia di Sicilia (his parent's hometown) was an emotional one, as we visited the very place where family roots ran deep. The locals were intrigued by our visit, as American tourists were a rare sight in this little town.

Positano and the Amalfi Coast: A Dreamlike Escape

Positano was nothing short of magical. The adventure began with a day trip to Pompeii, where we explored the ruins of the ancient city buried by Mount Vesuvius. The day continued with a visit to a local winery, with an amazing farm-to-table meal. A true highlight of the trip was celebrating Misty's 50th birthday with a private Italian cooking class. Making homemade gnocchi, meatballs, and tiramisu was an unforgettable experience, complete with a lemon-themed pajama party!

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by boat was another bucket-list experience. Although Amalfi Town was not accessible due to pier closures, a quick change of plans led us to Capri. The crystal-clear waters and scenic coastline were breathtaking. Aboard the boat, we enjoyed flowing Prosecco, charcuterie, and homemade limoncello shots. The more adventurous even jumped into the chilly Mediterranean waters!

Venice: A City of Canals

Venice was a must-see destination, even though it wasn’t initially on everyone's list. Arriving via boat transfer, the city’s charm was undeniable. Staying in a canal-side room, watching gondolas pass by with serenading gondoliers, was an experience straight out of a postcard. Venice’s beauty was appreciated through long walks, incredible meals, and plenty of shopping.

Lake Como: The Perfect Ending

The final destination, Lake Como, was a fitting conclusion to this epic adventure. Staying in a charming two-story villa overlooking the lake was a peaceful retreat. Despite a rainy start, we embraced the cozy atmosphere with breakfast, shopping, and a wine tasting in a cave. As the sun finally came out, we explored more, capturing photos to remember this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

an Unforgettable Journey

This Italian adventure was more than just a trip, it was a celebration of life, family, and friendship. Each city had its own unique charm, offering unforgettable experiences along the way. From historical landmarks and cultural immersions to incredible food and heartfelt moments, these 21 days in Italy will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Grazie, Italia! Until next time...

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