I have a week in Italy and must end up at Genoa on the 6th or 7th day to catch a cruise. I have never been to Italy before. I would like to see as much as soon as possible and would anticipate returning to Italy in the future to for further travel so its OK to see more cities in a little less detail. But i do not want to feel extremely rushed either. The trip is for my wife and I. We have never taken a trip without children for 10 years so any suggestions that are romantic or places to stay that are romantic or unique would be suggested. We can afford to splurge a little bit. I was thinking of renting a car and driving from Naples- Rome- Florence and ending up in Genoa on day 6 or 7. In Genoa we will be boarding a Cruise. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions for itinerary and or places to stay/visit/ things to do as I have no experience with Italy.
Posted by
Toledo
653 posts
Aaron, as much as I hate to say it, I would leave Naples out this time. Either substitute the Amalfi Coast (very romantic once you get off the road itself, and the road is stunning) or Cinque Terre. In Rome, the area around the Pantheon/Piazza Navona or Trastevere are both beautiful. The Ron in Rome site can offer lots of advice. You can also work in Orvieto on your way to Florence. Read the posts in this forum about driving in cities, especially Florence. I would suggest a couple of hill towns (can be driving trips from Florence as a base) like Siena, Todi, Montalcino, and Arezzo.
The RS guidebook or Lonely Planet can be very helpful for places to stay and things to do, depending on your interests.
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
I would suggest that your travel agenda is a bit ambitious for two reasons. First, you have too many places to visit is such a short time. You'll be packing, unpacking and driving. Second, Genoa is quite some distance from Naples. About 450 miles. The highways in Italy are not like the Golden State and I-5 freeways. If you are OK with the brief visits, you're fine. Go for it. However, I would simply suggest eliminating Naples and begin your journey in Rome. Second, do not drive in Florence. Most of the entire historic area is in a restricted zone (ZTL) and cameras get pictures of your license plate as you enter. Very limited parking as well.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
What time of year are you going? That could influence the recommendations. Why do you have Naples on your list, considering that it's at the opposite end of the country? I would suggest focusing on the north, maybe Venice and Verona before Genoa. Both cities are very beautiful and very romantic. In case you're interested, here are some of the pictures I took in Verona in 2011 and Venice in 2008.