First time to Italy. March 12-25, 2025. We are starting in Rome for 2 days/nights, followed by 1 week with extended family just south of Florence to explore Tuscany region. What I need help with is we have Saturday, Sunday & Monday for a few additional sights before flying home from Milan (MXP) Tuesday late morning. Having so much trouble deciding what to do. We will have a rental car for Tuscany area, do we keep it and drive to other region(s) or do we drop the car and take a train to Venice for a few nights, then final night in Milan? Lake Como? Verona? Genoa? Looking for some seasoned Italy travelers to help me know which will work best. It is my husband and I and our college age daughter. Any input would be so helpful.
Posted by
San Diego, California
5664 posts
I think it's a bit early for Lake Como, as far as weather and businesses being open. That may help you narrow your options.
Venice would be a good idea.
Have a great trip. Safe travels!
Posted by
Kamloops, BC, Canada
483 posts
Would you prefer staying in a small town or larger city ? Another vote for Venice. You might also consider Turin, Monza or Bergamo. Monza is famous for its F1 race track. Whatever you decide, it would be a good idea to stay in/near Milan the night before your departure so as to avoid missing your flight due to traffic delays or train/bus strikes.
Posted by
Castle Rock, CO
41 posts
The region north of Tuscany is Emilio Romagna, and is a wonderful area to explore either the cities of Modena or Bologna, or stay out in the countryside. Seeing the parmigiana cheese, balsamic, and Parma ham being made is a fun and educational experience. The food is at least as good as Tuscany in my opinion.
My only hesitancy about visiting this area is the time of year that you’re going…it will probably still be very cool up north.
Whatever you decide, have a wonderful time!
Posted by
5109 posts
Make everybody put in a vote, but Venice would be mine.