Italy Sneak Peak: From Ancient Rome to the Tuscan Countryside
There are some trips that feel like vacations, and then there are trips that feel like dreams you’ve been collecting for years.
This fall, we’re heading to Italy for nearly two weeks. That’s two weeks of ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, hilltop villages, vineyard-lined roads, and seaside sunsets. Oh and probably more pasta than any reasonable person should eat.
Our journey begins in Rome. I can’t wait to spend three days soaking in the history, energy, and beauty of the Eternal City. From standing beneath the massive arches of the Colosseum to wandering through the Roman Forum. We’ll also be marveling at the Sistine Chapel, of course. Rome is one of those places where every corner seems to hold another story. Between sightseeing, we’ll be lingering over cappuccinos, enjoying long lunches, and hunting down the perfect gelato. After all this we’ll be ending our evenings in Trastevere’s charming cobblestone streets.
After Rome, we’ll hop aboard a high-speed train to Florence, the heart of the Renaissance. We’ll finally stand face-to-face with Michelangelo’s David. Then on to explore the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, stroll across Ponte Vecchio, and watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo overlooking the city skyline.
From Florence, the pace slows as we pick up a rental car and head into Tuscany.
For six nights, we’ll be based in the tiny countryside village of Selvatelle. This will give us the perfect home base for exploring some of Tuscany’s most iconic destinations. Our days will include biking the Renaissance walls of Lucca and wandering medieval streets in Siena. We’ll also be admiring the towers of San Gimignano and exploring ancient Volterra. Picture us sipping wine along the famous cypress-lined roads of Bolgheri!
One of the highlights we’re most excited about is a day trip to Cinque Terre, where colorful villages cling dramatically to the cliffs above the Ligurian Sea. It’s one of Italy’s most photographed regions. We are so looking forward to exploring Monterosso, Vernazza, and Manarola overnight at a leisurely pace.
Of course, no trip to Tuscany would be complete without plenty of unforgettable meals. From family-run trattorias and local wine bars to seaside seafood lunches and countryside dinners. We’ll definitely be eating our way through Italy which is very much part of the plan.
Before heading home, we’ll make our way back toward Rome, with a possible stop at Ostia Antica, one of Italy’s best-preserved ancient Roman cities. Then finally spending our last night near the airport.
What excites me most about this itinerary is the balance. We’ll experience world-famous landmarks, but we’ll also have time to slow down. Imagine sitting in a piazza, wandering a quiet side street, or enjoying a glass of wine. All while watching the Tuscan countryside roll by.
Over the next several months, I’ll be sharing planning tips, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, packing guides, and detailed destination posts as we prepare for this adventure.
If Italy has been on your bucket list, I hope you’ll follow along. This promises to be one unforgettable journey.
Thinking about planning your own Italy adventure? We found that flight prices changed quite a bit depending on travel dates and airports. If you’re starting your research, it’s worth checking current fares and setting price alerts early.
Check current flights to Rome here.
Start booking great stays in Italy here.
Planning this Italy adventure has reminded me of our recent journey through London and Dublin. Every European trip develops its own personality, and while London was all about iconic landmarks and Dublin charmed us with its walkable streets and lively pubs. Italy promises a completely different blend of ancient history, countryside views, and unforgettable food. If you enjoy travel planning and European adventures, you might also like reading about our London and Dublin adventure, Napa Itinerary and other travel itineraries/guides.
