Italy Travel Agent Specialist

Italy's Ampitheater

Italy is a sensory masterpiece, whether you are exploring solo, traveling with a partner, or bringing the whole family. In Rome, the cobblestone streets lead you toward flavors you simply cannot find anywhere else. For a quick, "insane" bite, Pizza Florida is a must; they serve pizza al taglio (by the slice, sold by weight) with a crust that is impossibly crispy & airy. Their toppings are inventive—ranging from a decadent potato & truffle sauce to spicy salami that packs a perfect punch.For a sit-down experience, Osteria da Fortunata is legendary for a reason: you can watch the sfogline hand-roll your fettuccine right in front of you. It is the gold standard for authentic pasta. Equally popular is Tonnarello, where the Spaghetti alla Carbonara is served perfectly al dente and steaming hot. If you are hunting for the ultimate homemade lasagna, head to Vol. 17 Gusteria Pizza & Fritti, it's absolute perfection for any dedicated foodie.No Roman journey is complete without standing before the Trevi Fountain. To truly experience the magic without the crowds, visit at sunrise when the white marble and the roar of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct belong only to you & toss a coin over your left shoulder, to ensure your return to Rome, & if you’re looking for love. Just steps away, Mr. 100 Tiramisu offers a modern twist on tradition with 100 variations of the dessert. Their iconic pistachio version, paired with a glass of sweet Passito wine, is a treat even the kids will adore.While electric scooters are available, the best way to soak in Rome is on foot. Walking allows you to stumble upon the Nasoni (the city’s iconic "big nose" public fountains) to refill your water bottle with fresh, cool spring water. You can admire the Basilica di Santa Maria in its quiet majesty or wander the high-end boutiques near the Spanish Steps, marked by an ancient Egyptian Obelisk. For a touch of intrigue, visit Largo di Torre Argentina,the historic site of Julius Caesar’s assassination. In Rome beauty is at every corner.

Verona is far more than a backdrop for Shakespeare. While emulating the famous balcony scene at Casa di Giulietta is a rite of passage, the city’s true character emerges at its gateways. Entering through the ancient Porta Borsari, the limestone streets lead you into a culinary heartland where risotto is the undisputed king.To truly understand the local flavors, you have to look just outside the city walls to the Valpolicella wine region. This lush valley is the soul of Veronese gastronomy; it’s where the grapes for the rich, velvety Amarone are grown. Back in the city, the market hum of Piazza delle Erbe gives way to the more somber Piazza dei Signori, where Dante’s marble statue keeps watch over Italian history.For those seeking a perspective from above, the Torre dei Lamberti offers a panoramic look at the city’s terracotta rooftops. My favorite view, however, requires crossing the bridge to the Castel San Pietro. Take the funicular to the summit for a sunset drink as the city unfolds beneath you. Down in the valley, the Arena di Verona remains a living relic, hosting world-class operas under the stars.When it comes to dining, San Matteo Church Ristorante offers the unique experience of eating Amarone Risotto, a deep purple, savory dish infused with Valpolicella’s finest wine within a historic nave. For a quicker bite, La Bottega della Gina XXL serves incredible fresh pasta & close at 9pm.

Sicily: In Palermo, history is a sensory overload; street food markets sit around every corner, offering a gritty, delicious contrast to the Palermo Cathedral’s soaring views. Nearby, the Norman Palace houses breathtaking mosaics & intricate carvings that reflect the island's melting-pot heritage.Moving south to Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples stands as a hauntingly beautiful window into the Greek era. The Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world, is framed by spectacular views of the sea & rolling countryside. To truly grasp the scale of these ruins, the Pietro Griffo Archaeological Museum nearby is an essential stop to see the artifacts recovered from the site. The volcanic slopes of Mt. Etna offer a more rugged adventure. As Europe’s most active volcano, you can hike the craters or take a cable car for views that stretch across the coast. Afterward, cooling off at a local Etna winery is a must, the volcanic soil produces a distinct, mineral rich wine that is unique to this landscape.On the eastern coast, Taormina remains the island's crown jewel. Its ancient Greek theater is still used today, framing the stage against the backdrop of the sea and Etna. Below the cliffs, the nature reserve of Isola Bella is the perfect spot for a swim, while further west, San Vito Lo Capo offers turquoise waters tucked between dramatic mountains. Whether you are exploring sea coves or lounging on the sand, it’s easy to see why this coastline is a favorite of mine.

Italy is a place for everyone. Don't forget the camera!