Rome

Everyone should visit Rome at least once in a lifetime; if you're lucky enough, maybe more than once. A city that dates back 3 milliniums and its influence spans the world needs no introduction. For first-time visitors, Rome may feel overwhelming. There is so much to see and do, so give yourself enough time (3-4 nights minimum) and don't try to jam pack your agenda. Be sure to take time to just relax and enjoy Rome, as it's meant to be enjoyed, wine in hand, pasta on plate, feeding off the energy of the streets.

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Where to Stay:

• Anywhere you stay in Rome has something to offer. So no matter where you stay, really, is a good choice. But here are some recommendations depending on what you're looking for.

• For first time visitors, consider the historic center. One of the city's most beautiful neighborhoods and centrally located to everything you want to see.

• If you're a foodie, consider staying in the Testaccio neighborhood. There are a heap of family run trattorias and Michelin starred restaurants alike.

• If you're a party-goer (hopefully, in a post Covid world) consider staying in the Trastevere neighborhood. Abundant with bars and cafes that buzz with activity into the wee hours. 

• For those looking for a neighborhood with less tourists and more local life, checkout the hilltop neighborhood of Aventine Hill which offers great views, or San Giovanni which offers a slice of authentic Rome.

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Where/What to Eat:

• Rome is one city that you don't need recommendation. You can eat your way through the city and hardly have a bad experience. But here are some of our favorite eats:

• Have a pastry and an espresso counterside. Try Caffe Greco or Sant' Eustachio II Caffe.

• You must eat cacio e Pepe. Try Ristorante Roma Sparita where Anthony Bourdain went.

• Osteria dal 1931 for some Italian classics

• Angrypig Birretta and Prochetta for some great cured meats selection and sandwiches

• Osteria da Fortunata, another joint with great Italian classics.

• Pizzarium Gabriele Bonci for some of the best and most creative pizzas in town.

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What to Do:

• One could spend months exploring Rome, but here are some of the things one should consider when visiting.

• Make sure you enjoy yourself in Rome and not get lost pursuing tourist attractions. Eat good food, drink good wine, sit outside and enjoy people watching. Buy a few slices of meats, some cheese, get a bottle of wine and do a picnic. Listen to romantic Italian music being played on street corners and enjoy just being in Rome. Other mediocre activities include:

• Visit the Colosseum (make sure you get tickets early on), the Pantheon, the Roman Forum

• Throw a penny into the Trevi Fountain if you must, but make sure you admire the art

• Spend half a day at the Vatican. Explore the St Peter Basilica and admire Michelangelo's masterpiece at the Sistine Chapel.

• Admire great Renaissance art at Galleria Borghese and/or Museo Nazionale di Castel.

• Spend an evening at the beautiful Trastevere neighborhood. Great history, atmosphere, and food.

• Spend an evening exploring the Spanish steps, and grab a drink or coffee at one of the cafes overlooking it.

• Grab a gelato, or a beer, and people watch at Piazza Navona. 

• Catch a gorgeous sunset at Giardino degli Aranci.

• Take a day trip into to explore the ruins of Pompeii, or have a fun day on the water in Capri. 

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Florence

The birthplace of the renaissance, Florence is a city that checks all the boxes. Home to world-class museums, renowned artists and writers, beautiful architecture, and great food. Disclaimer: A city that could capture you and never let go. So visit at your own risk. Risk of discovering yourself again, of falling in love, of wanting to move to Florence.

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Where to Stay:

• Anywhere in the vicinity of the historic city center is a great choice. From there you can walk to all the attractions.

• If you can, try getting an accommodation overlooking the Duomo cathedral. 

• For night revelers, consider staying by Via Dei Benci near all the pubs and discos.

• Piazza San Lorenzo is a great central Piazza with daily street markets.

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Where/What to Eat:

• Trattoria Mario - Florentine steak and other Italian classics on communal tables.

• All'antico Vinaio - Best sandwiches in the world

• Trattoria Da Burde - Family run great Tuscan classics.

• Trattoria Sabatino - Family run great Tuscan classics.

• Gelato at La Carraia or Carapina.

• Coffee and pastries at caffe Gilli and Ditta Artigianale.​

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What to Do:

• Much like all of Italy, spend time enjoying yourself in Florence by doing nothing. Grab a table outdoors, sip some wine, and enjoy the scenery. 

• Spend time exploring the 14th century Duomo, or Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) - aka Florence's beating heart. You can buy tickets to the cathedral, the bell tower (beautiful views) and the crypt. 

• Take a hike to the Piazzale Michelangelo for great views of the city. 

• Spend a few hours exploring the Uffizi gallery and/or the Galleria dell'Accademia. The Uffizi has more expansive collection, the Galleria has David's statue. Make sure you get tickets in advance.

• Spend an evening exploring the historic Ponte Vecchio.

• Explore the Mercato Centrale Firenze for some fresh and local food.

• Visit the Basilica of Santa Groce; another gorgeous church.

• Experience "aperitivo", or Italian happy hour. Cocktails, open buffet, and dressed up locals at some of the trendiest bars

• Take a dat trip to see the leaning tower of Pisa. There are many companies that do half or full day excursions which are a good way to spend a day outside the city. Alternatively, you can take the bus to Pisa for a cheaper option.