Italy Archives - a Happy Healthy Home

The Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Italy

Tiara — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:23:00 +0000

Italy is one of those countries that captures your heart from the first bite of gelato, the first sunset over terracotta rooftops, and the first cobblestone street you wander down. As a busy mom, runner, and lifestyle enthusiast, traveling can feel like a luxury, but Italy has a way of making every moment feel intentional and unforgettable. After several trips and countless memories, here are the top five places you simply cannot miss.

1. Rome: The Eternal City

Rome is a mix of history, chaos, and magic. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon and the charming streets of Trastevere, every corner tells a story. I love waking up early, avoiding the crowds, and running past ancient ruins before the city fully wakes. Don’t forget to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain—it’s a cliché for a reason.

2. Florence: Art and Architecture

Florence feels like walking inside a painting. The Duomo dominates the skyline, and the Uffizi Gallery is a treasure trove of Renaissance masterpieces. For me, Florence is also about the smaller moments—watching the sunset over the Ponte Vecchio or enjoying a gelato in a quiet piazza. Running along the Arno River in the morning is a hidden delight for active travelers.

3. Cinque Terre: Coastal Charm

The colorful villages of Cinque Terre are postcard-perfect. Hiking the trails that connect Monterosso, Vernazza, and Manarola is both a workout and a feast for the eyes. I love starting the day with a coffee and fresh focaccia, then wandering the narrow streets with the salty breeze in my hair. It’s pure joy for anyone who appreciates nature, food, and adventure.

4. Venice: A City Like No Other

Venice is mesmerizing and slightly surreal. Gondolas, canals, and hidden squares make every walk an adventure. I recommend exploring early in the morning, before the tourists arrive, to experience the quiet magic of the city. And of course, indulge in cicchetti and espresso at a local bar—you won’t regret it.

5. Amalfi Coast: Sun, Sea, and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for breathtaking views and coastal charm, the Amalfi Coast delivers. From Positano to Ravello, every village is a gem. Driving the coastal roads or hiking the Path of the Gods gives you a new perspective of the Mediterranean. I love sipping limoncello while watching the sunset over the cliffs—it’s the perfect way to unwind after days of exploring.

Hidden Gems for More Time

If your trip allows for extra days, Italy has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Lake Garda, for example, offers stunning alpine scenery and charming lakeside towns that feel off the beaten path. The rolling hills of Umbria are perfect for wine tasting and quiet village strolls, and the medieval city of Siena transports you to a simpler time with its cobblestone streets and rich history. Exploring these lesser-known spots gives travelers a deeper connection to the country beyond the popular tourist hubs.

Italy feeds the soul as much as it does the appetite. Whether you’re wandering historic streets, tasting local cuisine, or simply pausing to watch life go by in a piazza, it reminds you to slow down and savor the moment.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

If Italy isn’t on your bucket list yet, it should be. Start with these five must-see spots, then consider adding a hidden gem or two if your schedule allows. Where should we travel to next?

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Italian Coast :: Cinque Terra & Portofino

Tiara — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 00:00:00 +0000

After our jaunt to Florence Jenn, Nick, and I headed to the coast for more sightseeing, food, and a little R&R. The assortment of photos is a combination of Cinque Terra and Portofino. The second is dedicated to the food from our three days spent on the coast. We stayed in the town of La Spezia at a quaint B&B hidden down an alley only known by its red walls. The owners were wonderful and sent us to an amazing restaurant the first night for dinner.

Cinque Terra is made up of 5 small villages built into the cliff side: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. From La Spezia Cinque Terra was only a short 20 minute train ride and Portofino about an hour. While in Cinque Terra we walked along the cliff side pathway from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza (side note: make sure to wear proper shoes) and Portofino was some much needed beach time…I’ll let the picture’s say the rest

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Italy :: Chianti, Anyone?

Tiara — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:59:00 +0000

A few days after landing in Italy Emily and I met Jen & Nick in Florence to enjoy the Chianti Festival. Who would have thought we would be able to jump on a mini bus, visit two vineyards, and sample various wines for only 10 Euros? Although we made reservations and never received a confirmation, like true Italians, we showed up and waited and what do you know, we were on the list! Once the driver arrived he checked everyone in and we were off. Two hours later we had arrived at the first vineyard for sampling. The owner explained all his wines, the area, the process etc…. After the second tasting we headed back to Florence where I then headed with Jen and Nick to spend a few days checking out Cinque Terra and Portofino.

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Coolin off with Gelato

Tiara — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 05:20:00 +0000

Hands down the best gelato in Rome is at Della Palma. I first visited in 2005 with my friend Jenn C and make a point to go every time I’m in Rome. They have what seems to be over 100 different flavors including mousse and soy based gelatos. This trip we only had a day in Rome which was spent wondering the city and of course a stop at Della Palma. Don’t forget to pay first!

Address: Via della Maddalena 20/23, Rome, Italy

It’s near the Pantheon. If you stand with your back towards the entrance of the Pantheon you will see a pathway to the left and to the right of the building directly located in front of you, walk up the left pathway, cross the road, pass the mini row of restaurants and it will be located on the left corner. Enjoy!

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Europe and Back

Tiara — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 21:37:00 +0000

Time fly’s when you’re having fun. I’ve been back for a day now and already started planning my next adventure. The last three weeks were spent exploring Bologna, Fano, Cinque Terra, Portifino, La Spezia, Ravenna, Verona, and Rome – Italy as well as Alicante and Valencia – Spain! An amazing trip, good friends and great food – what more could you ask for. More posts on my adventure’s in Europe will follow in the coming weeks!

500+ photos

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It’s Official

Tiara — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 01:40:00 +0000

That’s right I’m going back to Italy this summer for more adventures with some of my favorite people. You know who you are! Tickets are booked, bags will be packed, unpacked and packed numerous times before leaving for the airport. Good wine, food, and people…let the planning began!

For past adventures in Italy check out posts from summer of ’08. Or read my favorite expat blog Ciao Down!

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Rome, Italy

Tiara — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 10:03:00 +0000

The day before heading back to the States I jumped on the Big Red bus and saw the sights of Rome (for the second time). Here are a few shots form the day.

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The short of it all

Tiara — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:07:00 +0000

I’m back from Italy. The trip only ended up being a month, but it was a good month. I was able to visit with my friends Emily and GC, meet some great people, teach English to little Italian kids, drink good wine and eat great food, all while attempting to learn and speak Italian.

Throughout my travels I have learned sometimes it’s best not to have a plan, but to make it up as you go along. (Please note this isn’t for everyone). Rather than bore everyone with a million different posts covering my daily routines, I will spare you with only one semi-long post.

Here’s my story: I landed in Rome in early June not knowing what my future would hold. I quickly jumped on a train and headed Northeast to a little beach town named Fano (via bologna). Thinking I would only stay there for a few nights before setting out, I quickly changed my plans and decided to stay and live in Fano. At first I was living at Hotel Europa which was a quick 2 minute walk to the beach, but after a week or so I moved in with Frederica. Which then it was only a short 5-10 minute walk to the beach. (Frederica is Milko’s girlfriend and Milko is the owner of Hotel Euorpa, son.)

My Room at Hotel Euorpa

My second home

I was even able to teach at a summer camp 20 minutes east of Urbino. Here’s a shot of the rolling hills I had a view of everyday.

While I wasn’t teaching I spent my time going to the beach, walking up and down the corso, BBQing on the forth of July as the Americans invaded Fano, going to the market on Saturday, and just trying to live like an Italian. The following pictures will describe it all.
The beach changing area in Fano… Lido Due

Emily and I out and about one night

Small shopping carts what’s not to love

Just another day at the beach

The Main Square. It was 7am when I took this shot
After spending a month in Fano I said my farewells and headed to Rome before flying back to the states. All in all it was a good trip. until next time…

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Fano, Italy

Tiara — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:16:00 +0000

After a night in Bologna we quickly headed to Fano a Seaside city nestled by hilltops. According to Emily it’s the “Carlsbad” of Italy. Fano is often referred to as the “Adriatic Rivera.” All my plans prior to reaching Fano have be thrown out the window for one reason or another. For the next few weeks I plan on laying on the beach and traveling to hilltop cities all while emerging myself in the Italian culture. I’m learning Italian slowing. I know how to order food and ask where things are, but I don’t have a clue what they are saying back to me.

Seldom have my travels brought me abroad to just live among the locals, but I feel this experience is just what I’m looking for and need. To the beach!

Fano, Italy the beachThe Corso on a Saturday morning during the weekly market.Just another day at the beach.The girls out drinking. Cara, Julia, Emily, and well me

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Day One Traveling

Tiara — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:48:00 +0000

When I decided to visit Emily and GC in Italy for the summer no one told me it would take 24 hours from departure to arrival. Let me break it down:

5 am – wake up
6:15 am – depart for airport
7 am – arrive at airport for check-in
7:30 am – get in line for security
9:10 am take off
8:50 am (next day in Italy) – land in Rome
11:45 am – Jump on train to Bologna
5 pm – arrive in Bologna ( the train took twice as long as it should have)

Emily and GC were at the train station when I arrived, we booked a hotel and soon found out they were over booked, but would give us a room even if it wasn’t at their hotel. We ended getting an apartment for the night for the same price. Too much…. Welcome to Italy

After a nice hot shower we posed for a picture before heading out to dinner.

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