My boyfriend and I are traveling to Italy in June/July for 9 days/8 nights. I've never been to Italy before, and he's spent a few days between Venice, Milan, and Lake Maggiore. We like views, food, being romantic, beaches, history, etc.
We're flying in and out of Rome (midday flights) so planning on being there the first and last nights. We are visiting some friends for 3 nights on Lake Maggiore (in Lesa), which leaves our 2nd through 4th nights open. I'd really like to see Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, but it seems like a lot of travel in a little time. It seems like we'd be able to hop over to Venice for a couple days, with the same amount of transit time. 2 nights in Florence (or Milan) makes the most sense logistically.
We are open to renting a car but plan on using trains/transit. Our current itinerary looks like: 2 nights in Rome, 2 nights [Rome/Florence/Venice/Naples], 3 nights Maggiore, 1 night Rome.
Rick's suggestion would be for Florence, right? I'm concerned about being a bit history/museum-ed out after Rome. I'm here for your 2 cents. Thanks!