#19 Italian Job: Roman Holiday
Italian Job: Roman Holiday Days: 07 Timeline: July 02 to 08 Destinations: 03 Quick Itinerary Begin your journey in Milan, exploring the iconic Duomo, strolling through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and enjoying aperitivo in the Navigli District. Continue to Lago Maggiore, where you’ll visit the Borromean Islands, wander through Stresa, and relax by the lake. Next, head to Venice, where you’ll experience Piazza San Marco, take a scenic gondola ride and explore the colorful streets of Burano. Explore Vacation Destinations From City Lights to Cherished Nights The elegance of Milan blends history and modernity, from the towering Duomo to the stylish streets of Navigli. The tranquil beauty of Lago Maggiore unfolds with its serene waters and enchanting Borromean Islands, while Venice captivates with its winding canals, Piazza San Marco and timeless gondola rides. Finally, Saratoga sets the stage for a heartfelt celebration, where glowing Hoi An lanterns and a canoe in the pool create an unforgettable ambiance. Milan Milan, Italy’s fashion and financial capital, blends history with modernity. Home to the stunning Duomo di Milano, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, the city offers a mix of art, architecture and shopping. The vibrant Navigli District is perfect for experiencing Milan’s nightlife and aperitivo culture. Lago Maggiore Lago Maggiore, nestled between Italy and Switzerland, is a breathtaking escape with serene waters and charming towns. The Borromean Islands offer beautiful palaces and gardens, while Stresa provides stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. A boat ride across the lake showcases its natural beauty, making it a peaceful retreat from the city. Venice Venice, with its enchanting canals and historic charm, is a city like no other. From the grandeur of Piazza San Marco and Doge’s Palace to the romance of a gondola ride, every corner exudes beauty. A visit to Murano for glass-blowing artistry and Burano for its colorful houses adds to the magic of Venice. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, home to Michelangelo’s David, the breathtaking Duomo and the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge. Cinque Terre: A stunning seaside haven with five charming villages, rugged cliffs and scenic trails along the Ligurian Sea. Rome: The Eternal City, filled with age-old marvels such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon and the spiritual grandeur of Vatican City. Amalfi Coast: A picturesque coastal retreat with breathtaking sea vistas, vibrant towns like Positano and scenic roads leading to hidden beaches. Lake Como: A luxurious escape surrounded by majestic mountains, historic villas and the peaceful beauty of its vast blue waters. Verona: The romantic setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, featuring quaint streets, the ancient Arena di Verona and medieval architecture. Journey map: Tracing the path of adventure! Previous Vacation #18 Baltic: Nordic Charms Next Vacation #20 Incredible India: Heritage Unfolded Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
Venice
Venice Venice’s Heart and Soul: Must-See Landmarks Rialto: The Heart of Venice No trip to Venice is complete without a stroll over the Rialto Bridge, the oldest and most renowned bridge over the Grand Canal. Constructed in the late 16th century, this stone bridge is an architectural wonder and a great place for panoramic views of Venice’s busy waterways. The Rialto Market is a feast for the senses, offering with fresh seafood, colorful produce and a true flavor of everyday Venetian life. Don’t miss trying cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a classic bacaro among the bustling crowds. Murano: The Glass Island Just a short vaporetto (water bus) ride from Venice’s central island lies Murano, the world-famous glassmaking center. Murano glassmakers have been creating stunning glassware since the 13th century, employing methods that have been passed down through the centuries. A visit to a glass factory provides a glimpse into this fascinating craft, with master artisans blowing molten glass into dainty sculptures and elaborate chandeliers. The Murano Glass Museum gives more information about the island’s cultural heritage. Don’t forget to purchase a one-of-a-kind glass souvenir as a memento of your Venetian escapade. St. Mark’s Square: The Beacon of Venetian Magnificence Perhaps Venice’s most recognizable landmark, St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is a sweeping open area paved with stunning architecture. The stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, its golden mosaics and Byzantine design a testament to its grandeur, is a sight to behold. Climb the Campanile (bell tower) for sweeping views of Venice and don’t forget to admire the intricate façade of the Doge’s Palace, once home to the rulers of Venice. If you’re in the mood for a luxurious break, sip a coffee at the historic Caffè Florian, soaking in the square’s timeless elegance. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) – A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, once the seat of Venetian rulers, featuring grand halls, hidden chambers and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Burano Island – A charming island known for its brightly colored houses, lace-making tradition and picturesque canals. Peggy Guggenheim Collection – A must-visit for art lovers, showcasing an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Pollock and Dalí. Teatro La Fenice – Venice’s historic opera house, famous for its stunning interiors and a rich history of premiering legendary operas. Scuola Grande di San Rocco – A hidden gem filled with breathtaking Tintoretto paintings, offering an artistic and historical glimpse into Venice’s past. Libreria Acqua Alta – One of the world’s most unique bookstores, where books are stacked in bathtubs and gondolas to protect them from Venice’s frequent floods. Previous Destination Lago Maggiore Next Vacation #20 Incredible India: Heritage Unfolded Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
Lago Maggiore
Lago Maggiore Baveno Bliss: A Dreamy Escape on Lake Maggiore A Fairytale Wedding at Splendid The heart of our journey was a beautiful wedding at the Grand Hotel Splendid, a luxurious lakeside retreat that felt like it belonged in a classic romance novel. The vintage beauty of the hotel combined with its breathtaking waterfront location made for a fairytale setting. While standing with the glistening lake behind us as we said our vows, the experience felt unreal—timeless, intimate and completely awe-inspiring. The impeccable service of the hotel and its excellent Italian cuisine added to the celebratory feel, making our evening filled with love, laughter and memories to last a lifetime. A Ferry Ride Under the Stars We then took a romantic ferry dinner on Lake Maggiore after the wedding. The boat moved gently over the serene waters while the lights of Stresa and the Borromean Islands glistened off the water’s surface, giving us a spellbinding sight. The soft breeze was filled with the aroma of fresh Italian food and every course of our dinner was complemented by exquisite local wines. The quiet hum of conversation and the faint strains of live music contributed to the ethereal atmosphere, making it an ideal way to spend our first night as a married couple. Sipping Italian Classics: Negroni & Campari Spritz No Italian adventure is complete without savoring its signature aperitifs. We adopted the Negroni and Campari Spritz traditions during our visit, both classic symbols of Italy’s rich cocktail culture. The Negroni, with its strong combination of gin, vermouth and Campari, was just the right harmony of bitter and sweet, served over ice topped with a fragrant orange peel. Meanwhile, the Campari Spritz, a light and fizzy combination of Campari, prosecco and soda, was a pleasant sidekick to our afternoon lake strolls. Having those drinks at this comfortable lake-view bar while viewing the sun slide behind the mountain felt like a perfect way to relax and embrace the splendor of Baveno. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Isola Bella: A breathtaking Baroque island boasting the lavish Borromeo Palace and beautiful terraced gardens. Isola Madre: The largest of the Borromean Islands, known for its lush botanical gardens and exotic birds. Alpinia Botanical Garden: A peaceful garden offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Alps. Mottarone Mountain: A scenic spot where you can enjoy a 360° view of the Alps and seven lakes, accessible via cable car. Santa Caterina del Sasso: A stunning monastery perched on a cliffside, overlooking Lake Maggiore, rich in history and serene beauty. Previous Destination Milan Next Destination Venice Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
Milan
Milan Whispers of Milan & Beyond: An Italian Adventure The Breathtaking Duomo di Milano I was completely enchanted when I stepped into Piazza del Duomo. The Duomo di Milano is nothing short of spectacular—its intricate Gothic spires reach high into the sky, with each detail whispering a story of its own. I took my time admiring the stunning façade before stepping inside the grand cathedral, where the sunlight streaming through the stained glass created a magical atmosphere. I’ll never forget that climbing up to the rooftop was an experience; standing above Milan, I could feel the city’s heartbeat beneath me. The sight of the Madonnina shining in the distance is something I’ll always treasure. I lingered up there for a while, soaking in the beauty, the rich history and the vibrant energy of the city. A Walk Through History at Sforza Castle The next day, I ventured into Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a fortress steeped in centuries of history. As I wandered through its grand courtyards, I found myself imagining the lives of Milanese dukes and Renaissance artists who once roamed these halls. Inside, I was particularly drawn to the museum housing Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà Rondanini—standing before it, I felt a profound admiration for his incredible talent. After exploring the castle, I enjoyed a peaceful stroll in Parco Sempione, just behind the fortress. Sitting on a bench and watching the locals go about their day, I realized how beautifully Milan blends its rich history with modern life. Indulgence at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II On my final day, I treated myself to a delightful experience at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Walking beneath its magnificent glass dome, surrounded by luxury boutiques and intricate mosaics, I felt like I had stepped back in time. I paused for an espresso at a historic café, soaking in the stylish locals and tourists passing by. Before I left, I couldn’t resist joining in on the fun tradition of spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck—it brought a smile to my face, a little Milanese ritual that left a lasting impression. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio : This prominent art collection, located in the picturesque Brera area, features works by Caravaggio, Raphael and Titian. The neighboring streets are ideal for a leisurely walk, with cafés, stores, and an artsy vibe. Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio: One of the oldest and most significant churches in Milan, Sant’Ambrogio was constructed in the 4th century. It has beautiful Romanesque architecture, ancient mosaics and the burial site of Saint Ambrose, Milan’s patron saint Navigli Canals: Designed in part by Leonardo da Vinci, the Navigli district is famous for its picturesque canals, vibrant nightlife and trendy restaurants. It’s the perfect place for an aperitivo while watching the sunset over the Naviglio Grande. Cimitero Monumentale : This monumental cemetery is like an open-air museum, featuring elaborate tombs and sculptures. Many notable Italian figures are buried here, making it a fascinating yet peaceful place to explore. Bosco Verticale: A modern architectural marvel, Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) consists of two residential towers covered in over 2,000 trees and plants. This eco-friendly skyscraper is a symbol of sustainable urban living and a great spot for photography. Next Destination Lago Maggiore Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top
