Pizza, Pasta and Amore: 8 Days in Italy

Start your Italian journey in the fashion capital of Milan. Visit the Duomo di Milano — explore the majestic interior, then head to the rooftop for panoramic city views. Just next door, stroll through the glamorous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and give the mosaic bull a spin for good luck (yes, on the testicles — it’s tradition!)

Book ahead to see Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” at Santa Maria delle Grazie — you only get 15 minutes inside, but it's unforgettable.

Unwind with an aperitivo in the Navigli District at Ugo Cocktail Bar, then enjoy an early dinner at Trippa, a Milanese gem. Catch the evening train to Venice, and take a peaceful nighttime stroll through the quiet canals. Venice under the moonlight is pure magic. Delight in the silent canals, glowing reflections and a sense of timeless wonder.

Wake up in Venice, where mornings start with the soft lapping of water and the occasional gondolier’s song. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, Piazza San Marco, and climb the Campanile for panoramic views. If it’s acqua alta (high tide), the square may be flooded, so pack waterproof shoes and a sense of humor.

Tour the opulent Doge’s Palace, and in the afternoon, hop on a classic gondola ride through the Grand Canal. Romantic? Sure. Smelly? Sometimes. Iconic? Always.

Visit the gorgeous Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, then head to Al Mercà, a tiny but legendary bar where locals sip wine and nibble cicchetti (Venetian tapas) while standing outside. It’s the perfect pre-train snack.

Take the evening train to Florence, and end your day with dinner at La Giostra, where the candlelit ambiance and homemade pastas will steal your heart.

Today’s adventure takes you to Pisa for a classic “holding up the tower” photo — and maybe a little leg workout. Climb the Leaning Tower (narrow, slanted and unforgettable) and visit the adjacent Cathedral and Baptistry. Reward yourself with a cone of gelato nearby.

If time allows, visit the Palazzo Blu for art and riverside views. Then return to Florence and wander through the historic center. See Santa Maria Novella, the Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio.

Before sunset, head to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best views in Florence. Grab an Aperol Spritz at the plaza bar or bring your own wine to enjoy with the view. It's a local favorite for a reason.

Dinner at Gustapizza is a must. Their heart-shaped pies and wood-fired crust are iconic. Cap the evening with a walk across Ponte Vecchio, where gold glitters in every window.

Dedicate your final day in Florence to its masterpieces. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Cross the Ponte Vecchio to the Galleria dell’Accademia and meet Michelangelo’s David in all his marble glory.

Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, climb Giotto’s Bell Tower and admire the Gates of Paradise.

Dinner is at Trattoria ZaZa, a buzzing spot known for its truffle dishes and Florentine steak. Then hop on the last train to Rome and check into your hotel and rest up — tomorrow, Rome awaits.

Walk in the footsteps of the emperors with a morning tour of Ancient Rome. Marvel at the Colosseum, explore the ruins of the Roman Forum and climb Palatine Hill for incredible views.

For lunch, head to Emma, a sleek spot known for some of Rome’s best pizza. Then explore the historic center: snap a photo at Piazza Venezia, gaze at the Pantheon’s perfect dome and watch street performers in Piazza Navona by the Fiumi Fountain.

In the evening, join a pasta-making class near Piazza Trilussa, where you’ll learn to roll, shape and eat your own creations. Afterwards, hit the Trastevere bars for a taste of local nightlife — cozy wine bars, hidden speakeasies and lively piazzas.

Start with a morning visit to the Trevi Fountain — toss in a coin for good luck — then climb the Spanish Steps for another iconic view.

Dedicate the rest of your day to Vatican City. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, soak in the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, and wander the Vatican Museums, home to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

End your evening with a classic Roman dinner at Tonnarello in Trastevere — their carbonara is unforgettable.

Trade city buzz for coastal bliss as you take the train to Salerno, followed by a scenic ferry ride into Positano. The colorful cliffside town is pure magic.

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the charming alleyways filled with ceramics and handmade sandals. Don’t miss trying lemon sorbet served in an actual lemon — a sweet, tart treat that’s as photogenic as it is refreshing.

If you're up for a scenic walk, head to Fornillo Beach — less crowded and more laid-back. In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner at Da Gabrisa, where local dishes and ocean views take center stage.

In the morning, hop on a Capri boat tour — circle the island, swim in secret coves and if sea conditions allow, duck into the mystical Blue Grotto.

Back in Positano, lace up your sneakers and hike the legendary Path of the Gods. The dramatic views of the coastline below are unreal — a perfect farewell to southern Italy.

Reward your effort with dinner at La Tagliata, a rustic, family-run restaurant with no menu — they just keep bringing you incredible food and wine. End your night dancing at Music On the Rocks, a seaside cave club that keeps the party going until the waves lull you to sleep.