First-Time Trip to Italy – Advice & Recommendations Welcome!

Posted by jolicious on 06/25/25 06:53 PM

Hi everyone,

We’re planning our first trip to Italy and would love some guidance! We won’t be renting a vehicle, so we’re relying on public transportation to get around.

We’re looking for suggestions on:
• Hotel accommodations (safe, clean, and budget-friendly)
• Restaurants worth trying (we love local, authentic spots!)
• Must-see sights and attractions
• Places for a bit of casual shopping
• How to make the most of a birthday celebration in Venice.
Thank you in advance.

Posted by ChristineH

Gettysburg PA

06/25/25 06:55 PM

8202 posts

Welcome to the forum!

When is this trip?
How many nights in Italy?
Who is we?

Flights booked?

Do you have a good guidebook?

Posted by LuxuryNomad1987

California

06/25/25 07:04 PM

61 posts

Hi there, are you solely going to be in Venice or do you plan on going elsewhere?

Posted by jolicious OP

06/25/25 07:26 PM

2 posts

So I’m planning this trip in September. Flying out on 7th to the UK. Was hoping to go to Paris but I’m slowly realizing time may not permit as my first plan was to make this trip all about Italy and to celebrate my big birthday on September 14.
Have to be back home on the 21.

Posted by valadelphia

06/25/25 07:33 PM

5974 posts

So no flight home is booked yet?
What is on YOUR list beyond Venice?
Perusing a guide book before settling down to plan in detail is really helpful. Even after multiple trips, that is how I approach it. But you can start off right by getting rid of the idea that there are any must-sees. There is only what you want to see! Make your list, then solicit help to fill in the blanks and refine things.

Posted by ChristineH

Gettysburg PA

06/25/25 07:34 PM

8202 posts

We are you flying to UK?
Will you spend time there?

Posted by Claudia

Land of La

06/25/25 09:42 PM

9733 posts

Define budget friendly.

What are your interests? Art? Theatre? Architecture? Street Markets? Churches?

Lastly, your homework should include buying the RS Italy guidebook. Don’t work for him simply saying excellent intel for a first time visitor. Like how to use trains etc.

As far as what to see? Ever heard of the Colosseum? Been in Rome nearly 2,000 years.

Go to Venice before it sinks into oblivion but be prepared for the masses of humanity.

Book in advance for the Last Supper in Milan.

Posted by ChristineH

Gettysburg PA

06/25/25 10:28 PM

8202 posts

If you don’t have a guidebook yet you can start here:
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy

His itineraries are suggestions, many here feel they are too fast paced for individual travelers

Posted by Maddy in Venice

Venice, Italy 🇮🇹

06/27/25 02:05 PM

6 posts

Hello! I recommend Bloom&Settimo Cielo in the San Marco neighbourhood, close to Campo Santo Stefano. I stayed there and they are lovely. Breakfast is included. I have a discount code for a stay there, feel free to send me a message so I can share with you, if you like the property. They can give you a lot of tips on where to eat. In fact, there's a great bacaro (Venetian tavern) and restaurant just a minute walk from there: Bacaro e Trattoria Da Fiore. I have many restaurants recommendations for Venice, some could be great places to have your birthday meal too. A lot depends on what would you like to eat, type of restaurant, etc. Feel free to send me a message.