Hi. I am taking my 14 yr old to Italy. June 1. We are first timers. We are doing the Italy My Way 14 day. I just received my guide book and am starting to plan. Haven’t booked anything yet for the daily sights. What are your tips for how and when to book the sights? What are your must sees? Please send me anything you wish you knew your first time. Also how will eating on an allergy diet be for me? Meat and veggies only… doable? Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Surrey, UK
246 posts
Others will be along to advise on the sights, and there are numerous threads on here about must-sees.
What is your food allergy?
If it is gluten, there are now lots of GF pasta and bread options - the Italians/EU have rules about disclosing allergens on menus, too.
There are always meat/veg/salad options, unless you are in a seafood place!
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Hi, thank you. I will not eat the gf products… but yes would love just fresh meats and salads or veggies. I basically eat plain things due too so many allergies easier for me to say plain chicken and veggies as opposed to what I can’t have. My daughter will be able to have all the amazing things thankfully, :) not sure about hotel breakfasts and that kind of thing or like grab and go options probably limited. I am so looking forward to their coffee!
Posted by
North Georgia, USA
1313 posts
You'll find it a lot easier to navigate menus and dietary restrictions in Italy than here in the U.S. They don't add a bunch of crap to their food, and allergens are disclosed on the menus. If you are satisfied with fairly simple preparation for meat and veg, and you stick to restaurants where they actually prepare the food when you order it (not the super touristy places where they may be using pre-made food), you'll be fine. Don't worry.
Posted by
North Georgia, USA
1313 posts
Regarding booking, there are some sites where you need to be ready to book at the 30, 60 or 90 day mark. You don't say when your trip is, but if it's after mid-June, you still have time to research. As you read through the guidebook, make a note of anything you must book in advance (like the Accademia and Uffizi in Florence or the Colosseum in Rome) or for a specific time (climbing the Duomo), so you don't miss out on those tickets. If you look at your itinerary, there are some suggestions of things to do and what must be reserved in advance: https://www.ricksteves.com/tours/italy/my-way-italy
You might also want to download the Rick Steves audio app and start listening to some of his content on Italy. We have used a few of his walking tours and it's a great way to hit the highlights without the expense of a guide and should keep a 14 year old engaged.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thank you. This is so helpful. I would love your advice. We leave June 1st. Just starting the planning process this week.