A Dream Summer in Italy | My Guide to the Best Destinations and Hidden Gems

Ah, Italy! The land of pizza and the Mediterranean sun. In the summer of 2022, I spent a few weeks travelling around the sights of Italy with my close friends, here is my guide on the best destinations, from the iconic cities to the hidden gems.

Naples- A Southern Escapade

Naples is an authentic Southern city that is nestled next to Mount Vesuvius and the infamous ruins of Pompeii. I loved Naples because it was the start of our Italian adventure, and I felt as though I was walking through a daydream the whole time. With its busy streets, vibrant markets and also full of scooters that seem to defy the laws of physics, Naples is a must-add to your Italian itinerary.  I’d recommend hiring a rowboat on the Bay of Naples to experience the crystal-clear waters and the magnificent view of Mount Vesuvius behind.

Vesuvius & Pompeii:

A visit to Naples cannot be completed without a visit to the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the ancient cities buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walking through the ruins feel surreal, you can visit homes, streets and even see preserved objects from centuries ago. I'd also recommend putting on your hiking boots and climb up Mount Vesuvius. The views from the top were one of the highlights of my trip.

Rome- Where History Comes to Life

Our second stop was Rome, a city that felt like a giant open-air museum, and also a cardio workout because if you want to see everything, be prepared to get your 10,000 steps in. I recommend visiting St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and of course, the Sistine Chapel, whose ceiling will leave you speechless. Rome’s beauty is something so special, take it all in. Enjoy a gelato by the Pantheon and flip a coin into the Trevi Fountain, but be warned: everyone else has the same idea!

There is so much to take in and experience, if visiting for a short time only then I would recommend planning ahead so you can see everything in the time you have!

Neptune Fountain--Fontana del Nettuno

Florence- The Heart of the Renaissance

Florence is a city for art lovers, filled with history, architecture and culture at every corner. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, and home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, it is no surprise Florence captivates every traveller who visits.

I would recommend exploring the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and climbing to the top for panoramic views of the city. Around the square, you'll find outdoor cafes where you can enjoy a lunch while watching local street artists at work. At night, the square comes alive with live music and vibrant atmosphere.

Make sure to stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, the famous arch bridge spanning the Arno River. With its hanging houses and shops, it’s one of Florence’s most iconic sights.

Pisa- More than just the Tower

Just a short trip from Florence, Pisa is best known for its iconic Leaning Tower. Yes, the Leaning Tower is iconic, but the real challenge is taking the classic ‘holding up the tower’ photo. Beyond the Piazza dei Miracoli, wander through Pisa’s charming historic streets and local markets along the Arno River. It offers a combination of history and beauty and laid-back charm, without the intensity of the bigger cities.

Milan- A Fashion and Culture Capital

Milan might be Italy’s most modern city, but it’s still steeped in rich history and art. Known as one of the fashion capitals of the world, it’s the place to spot the latest trends and shop in world-class boutiques.

Be sure to visit the Duomo di Milano, whose Gothic architecture dominates the city and offers breathtaking rooftop views. Milan is also home to The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary masterpiece, housed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

Whether you’re exploring Milan’s rich culture or indulging in its style scene, this city has something for everyone.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Venice- The Floating City of Love

Venice truly feels like a dream. With its labyrinth of canals and ornate architecture, it’s a city unlike any other. Start at Piazza San Marco, home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile. By day, it’s a stunning attraction and by night, the square comes alive with live music and Aperol Spritz. Glide through the canals on a gondola, it's dreamy... but gentle reminder that gondoliers have an incredible sense of humour and zero fear of colliding with other boats.

Take a short boat ride to the Santa Maria della Salute church in the Dorsoduro district where the dome can be seen across the city. If you have time, visit the Teatro La Fenice, Venice’s most famous opera house, to experience its elegance and history firsthand.

Whether you’re getting lost in the narrow alleyways or crossing the Rialto Bridge, Venice offers postcard-perfect views at every turn.

Lake Garda- A Serene Gem

Our Italian adventure ended at Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy located between Venice and Milan. The crystal-clear waters are surrounded by scenic landscapes, and charming lakeside towns, making it the perfect place to unwind. The sunsets are breathtaking, and the only thing more impressive might be the fact that your friends still have the energy to paddle the boat around the lake. After exploring the waters, we enjoyed lunch by the lake and soaked up the sun, it was a perfect little getaway to conclude our Italian adventure. 

Sottovento-- A beautiful restaurant in Via Porto Vecchio, Lake Garda

A Lasting Impression

My trip around Italy was just the beginning of many more travel adventures to come, and I feel so lucky that it was such an unforgettable chapter. From ancient ruins to sun-kissed lakes, every part of Italy holds something beautiful to discover.

If you’ve ever thought about visiting Italy, I hope this inspires you to take the leap, you’ll fall in love with it just as much as I did.