Have you been planning to travel with your friends for a long time but couldn’t do it? Pick up a map and be prepared to visit one of the top bucket-list countries in the world. Yes, you guessed it right, it’s Italy.
The top-class cuisine, rich history, fascinating architecture, the hillside towns... there is something in Italy for everyone. Traveling with friends means that you need a good 2 to 3 weeks to travel around but if you don’t have many days, don’t worry. We are going to provide you with a small travel guide that will be handy for your short trip to Italy with your friends. Read on:
Places to Visit in Italy
1. Rome
Rome, just hearing its name, brings back flashbacks of so many landmarks that we all have been seeing on Italy’s travel brochures, postcards, and all over social media. The history here takes you around 28 centuries back, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe. Rome is famous for its charming neighborhoods, world-class museums, delicious pizzas, and mainly its historical sites. Some of the places you must see here with your friends include; The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Borghese Museum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. Two to three days would be enough to wander Rome. For complete enjoyment browsing the smaller, less touristy neighborhoods is a must. There you can find local and amazing little restaurants that can't compare to those in touristy locations. Of course, don't miss checking their outdoor markets where you can buy some great Italian leather shoes and jackets at very affordable prices.
2. Venice
Imagine sitting in a boat with your girlfriends, going through the picturesque waterways while listening to live music; dreamy, isn’t it? You can experience all of this in this wonderful city called Venice. This breathtaking city is connected by hundreds of beautiful bridges and gorgeous canals. The Grand Canal is the most famous one among all the canals and is always frequented by tourists. Some of the must-see places in Venice are; Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and Saint Mark’s Square, and Basilica. A day or two will be enough to spend here with your pals.
3. Amalfi Coast
Your journey to Italy is incomplete without visiting this extraordinary beauty known as the “Amalfi Coast”. Though this beautiful town is always crowded with tourists, it’s still worth a visit. It is stretched 30 miles along the Sorrento Peninsula, featuring massive cliffs, shimmering bays, resorts, and colorful villas. One of the poshest towns in Amalfi Coast that you should visit is Positano, home to gorgeous pastel houses, waterfalls, picturesque mountains, and many pebbled beaches. We recommend spending at least two days here at Amalfi Coast.
4. Florence
Without a doubt, Florence is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy. It feels like a small town, but there are a plethora of things to do and see here. Situated in the picturesque Tuscan Valley, Florence is surrounded by avenues taking you to many big and small piazzas. Some of the places to visit here include; Piazza del Duomo, Ponto Vecchio at sunset, and the Uffizi Gallery. Don’t forget to eat lots of gelatos here that Florence is famous for. You’ll need only a day to race through the best of Florence.
5. Cinque Terre
One of the most scenic spots in Italy is Cinque Terre. The town features five breathtaking colorful villages sitting on the hill sloping down to the Mediterranean Sea. The five towns to explore here are; Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso al Mare. You can hike between these five towns in only one day while eating lots of gelatos on the way. End up in Monterosso and take a quick swim in the sea. It is possible to visit Cinque Terre on a one-day trip from Florence. But if you have time, we recommend you to stay here for at least one night so you can explore all the towns easily. Read more about my Tuscany Trip.
What to Eat in Italy?
1. Pizza: We don’t even have to mention that Italians make the best pizzas in the world! Try and decide.
2. Lasagna: Though you can find lasagna all over Italy, the best one can be eaten in Emilia Romagna with homemade fresh noodles.
3. Potato Dumplings in Meat Sauce: Also known as Gnocchi, this delicious potato dish is a must-try. Again, it is easily available throughout the country.
4. Buffalo Cheese: It is usually served as a starter in many restaurants. Once you start to eat it, the milk spills out from it that tells you how freshly it is made.
5. Cicchetti: Try this out in Venice – small bite-sized snacks made from various cheeses, herbs, and more.
Getting Around in Italy
Traveling by train is the most common mode of transport here. Many cities also offer bus services. Except for Venice, where you have to travel via boat or foot, there is no other way around. Renting a car is a great option when in Tuscany or times when you would like to drive around and visit smaller places. Definitely, no driving in Rome is recommended.
Have a pleasant and safe journey to Italy!