My sister and I are planning our first trip to Italy, we have decided after reading this forum to do it on our own so need help with planning. We are thinking of flying into one city and departing from another. Would like to see and explore Rome, Florence and /or Tuscany area, Venice, Cinque Terre and possibly either Lake Como or Amalfi Coast. Would appreciate any and all suggestions. Not adverse to renting a car for the Tuscany area for day trips. Agriturismos, monastery stays and B&Bs are probably preferred to larger hotels.
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
I'd suggest something like this over 16 nights....
Venice - 3 nights
Lake Como - 3 nights
Cinque Terre - 3 nights
Florence - 4 nights (with day trip to Siena)
Rome - 3 nights
Direct train from Milan to Monterosso (CT).
Train via Pisa from Monterosso (CT) to Florence.
Limited time in Florence would curtail your opportunity for a hire car.
Posted by
Atlanta
5295 posts
Considering the amount of time you have the following is very general and will have to be altered to fit your time frame and interest. Fly into Milan and then train to Lake Como for 2 nights. Then train to Venice (4 nights) and then to the CT for 3 nights. Train to Florence for 3 nights and maybe rent a car there for a bit. Then take a high speed train to Rome (or fly) for 4 nights and fly back from there. The Amalfi Coast is a good bit south of Rome so I'd drop it unless you take time away from the northern part of the trip. If you can give us more specifics folks on the board can give you more specific info.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks for suggestions, our interests are seeing the typical highlights of Rome Florence and Venice, Relaxing in Lake Como and Cinque Terre, hiking, some beach time and exploring neighborhoods and wine tasting, tours and possibly cooking classes in Tuscany area. The Amalfi coast will more than likely be for the next time as we do not want to overdo it with too many destinations.