Have you dreamed of taking an Italian vacation and experiencing this country’s splendor? A trip to Italy sets our minds reeling – the pasta, the wine, and the scenery. It’s an enchanting place of rugged, timeless beauty. Allow me to walk you through our trip and how we sheered thousands of dollars off the normal ticket price. Originally, we set out to plan a one-week Italian vacation. After looking at a few different scenarios, we ended up planning a trip that came closer to two weeks.
A simple text of ‘Hey, want to go to Italy sometime soon to celebrate our anniversaries?” slowly turned into reality. As the months of planning passed by, the anticipation grew. Sometimes, we set our travel expectations so high that when we finally arrive, it can be a bit disappointing. Well, this was not the case. Italy was just as amazing as we had expected and more.
Many of you may be interested in planning an Italian vacation as it seems to be a top destination for many. Here I will share the many tips and tricks we learned along the way.
So… let’s get started!
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission from qualifying sales. There are no additional charges for you as the reader. Thanks for supporting my small business!
What Our Italian Vacation Included
- 4 nights in Milan
- a cooking class
- a train ride through Switzerland
- a boat ride on Lake Como
- 3 nights in Cinque Terre
- hiking the Blue Trail
- 4 nights in Rome
- 1 night in Pompeii
- a homemade four course Italian meal overlooking Mt Vesuvius
- a guided tour of Pompeii
- horseback riding on Mt Vesuvius
- and all the extras that fall in between!!!
How to Afford an Italian Vacation
Ok, so let’s address the elephant in the room: how to afford a trip to Italy. I have you covered!
First off, we got creative and used a variety of resources, but for the most part, credit card sign up bonus points was the game changer. We pay off our credit card statements each month. This is key! Do not carry a balance on your credit cards just to obtain the sign-up bonus. This will completely offset the benefits. To give you an idea of the potential savings, points covered our airfare and 8 hotel nights!! Yes, we’re talking significant savings.
MILAN
Where and how to stay for free in Milan
VOCO is an IHG hotel in Milan. It is VERY nice! The hotel has a great vibe with a fun, eclectic atmosphere. The entry level’s open floor plan allows you to easily move from a cozy sitting area to the pool table and pinball machines, to the bar, and on to the full-service restaurant.
There is a pool and fitness room on the top floor, but we never made it up there.
Payment: IHG Chase Credit Card
We used the generous sign-up points along with a fourth night free. IHG offers a free night when you stay for four consecutive nights.
Milan Cooking Class
Taking a cooking class while in a different country has become a new favorite activity. Each time I’m blown away by how much more I get out of the class besides just a delicious meal. The instructors always share local insight, travel tips and general cultural background information. Because of this, I recommend signing up for a cooking class at the beginning of your travels. Of the four of us, there is only one that really likes to cook, but we all thoroughly loved the class.
The instructor’s personality obviously makes a big difference. We scored with our chef, Edoardo. He not only educated us on cooking but on Italian customs and gave local recommendations.
The class started by making tiramisu. By making the dessert first, it was able to chill while we made our pasta dishes. From there we moved on to making ravioli and tagliatelle. It was quite entertaining! After mixing, kneading and rolling it out flat, we created two completely different Italian dishes.
The entire kitchen, with nine of us in the group, was well orchestrated by Edoardo as he cooked up fantastic sauces to pour over our noodles. Complimentary bottles of wine were offered as we sat down to enjoy two delicious plates of pasta and our tiramisu.
Touring the Duomo
Ahhh, The Duomo – the heartbeat of Milan.
The city is known for its fashion sense and financial district, but the iconic gothic structure holds its own.
Fun facts:
- Took 600 years to build
- 135 spires depicting honorary people (not all saints)
- You can walk on the roof (highly recommend)
- There’s an archeological site (still being dug out) UNDER the cathedral from an ancient church
TIPS
- buy your ticket online prior to your visit to skip the lines
- shoulders & knees must be covered to enter
- it’s worth the few extra dollars to get the comprehensive ticket which gives you access to different areas under the cathedral
We opted for the comprehensive self-guided entry ticket. It cut off a lot of time waiting in line and guaranteed us entry. We walked at a steady pace throughout the cathedral’s entirety, and it still encompassed an hour and a half. There’s just so much to see and take in.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
Within the same public square is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele (aka a mall). THE most beautiful mall you’ll ever visit.
Even if the brands are too pricey for your taste, it’s worth walking around window shopping. While inside the corridor, make your way to the mosaic bull near the central intersection. Legend has it that you should place your heel on its testicles and spin three times. Good things are SURE to happen. When in Milan…
Visiting the Starbucks Reserve
Is the Starbucks Reserve worth all the hype? In a nutshell, yes.
I try to avoid chain businesses when vacationing, but the Starbucks Reserve in Milan is an exception. Located just down the block from the Duomo, it’s an easy add-on when you’re in the area.
This is not your standard macchiato. Entering this gorgeous historic post office is only the beginning. For one, there’s an actual handheld menu because the options are so diverse from any of the standard Starbucks.
Once you pass the array of mouthwatering treats, it’s time to place your order. Waiting for your drink to be crafted is entertaining as you get to watch a unique variety of drinks being delivered by the baristas. This all happens while standing underneath working copper pipes that remind me of a coffee version of Willy Wonka.
Upstairs at the bar, you will find a calmer atmosphere. If you are a fan of espresso martinis, then this is your place. You can get a flight and have a fantastic conversation with the barista while deciding on your favorite flavor. We had the very BEST barista/bartender who made our visit extra special by her hospitality. We learned so much about the Starbucks Reserve, and Milan in general, during our conversation.
It really is the people who make the difference in travel.
Visiting Milan for the first time
To wrap up our time in Milan, here are a few last bits.
Walking around, you just never know what you’ll encounter. Yes, it takes more effort, but the surprises are much more rewarding than just cruising by in a taxi. An example is the extraordinary supermarket we came across. It was full of fresh meats, cheese, and olives. We saw raw chickens with their heads still attached, whole stuffed lobsters, and $100 bottles of olives. The basement was a massive wine cellar with bottles priced across the entire spectrum.
A few of our other favorite finds:
- San Maurizio Church – known as the Little Sistine Chapel of Milan (free admission)
- Navigli neighborhood (visit during the day and early evening)
- Vertical Forest – residential high-rise buildings with live trees on the balconies (easily seen from a car)
- Milan Central Station – the historical architecture is so beautiful
- Parma (an hour train ride away) Yes, it’s the birthplace of Parmesan cheese
SWITZERLAND
Seriously, Switzerland is SO BEAUTIFUL!!
It has a very ‘Julie Andrews feeling’. (Head over to IG to get the audio version) Always up for fun, my bestie and I borrowed the guide’s microphone and had a bit of fun. The end results fully exhibit when one friend has a lovely voice, and the other one DOES NOT. Regardless, the train passengers got a kick out of us trying.
We booked this all-day excursion while staying in Milan, and I highly recommend it. The tour left from the bus area just outside the Milan Centrale Station. It was a fun treat to sit back, relax and let someone else take care of the logistics.
A bus drove us to Lake Como where we had a quick breakfast stop. From there, we boarded a boat and cruised around Lake Como. It was quite fascinating to learn about all of the American movies that have been filmed in and around the coastline. The group got back on the bus, and we rode to Switzerland. We independently had lunch in an adorable Swiss ski town. This short stop also allowed us to pick up snacks and drinks from the local grocery. The group met back at the Swiss train station (which runs precisely on time!). Both sides of the train will give you great views but sitting on the right side gives you a bit of an advantage.
We passed waterfalls, a glacier, and endless beauty. The windows opened so you could smell the fresh air and feel the breeze. We seriously did not want the ride to end.
The bus then took us back to Milan. A VERY full day but efficient and relaxing.
Fun fact: Bellagio has 3000 residents. The Bellagio hotel, in Las Vegas, has 4000 rooms.
CINQUE TERRE
After four nights in Milan, we took a train to the Cinque Terre region where we would call home for the next three nights. We could have easily left this off of our Italian vacation itinerary, but we are so thankful we did not. The area has become quite a tourist destination over the past few years. I feel that you will get more out of your experience if you actually stay in one of the small villages rather than just visiting when the crowds are present.
Our Airbnb in Vernazza
The four of us knew it was going to be a quarter mile uphill hike to our Airbnb but none of us were prepared for exactly what that meant. Reason #756 why you don’t take a large suitcase to Europe.
We climbed 418 literal stairs cut out of the rugged, natural bedrock with backpacks strapped on our backs and toting our carry-ons. We were told to take the Blue Trail until we saw a green door. Once we got to the green door, there were still 75 more steps. After 692 steps, we arrived!
Our wonderful host, with cold water in hand, greeted us upon arrival. Our rooms had private bathrooms and air conditioning. The view of the Mediterranean from the two terraces made the trek completely worth it. These patio areas were enjoyed in the mornings for breakfast and in the evenings as we reflected on the day with glasses of wine.
Once we left the house for the day, we did not come back. Would I book it again? YES! It was so cozy, the host was fantastic, we could do laundry, and it gave us great access to the Blue Trail.
Vernazza
Vernazza is a fantastic village to explore. It serves as a great central location while being in the Cinque Terre area. It’s especially nice after 5:00pm when most of the tourists leave.
A couple of local highlights are the tunnel/cave, the blue umbrella patio, and the castle. They are all worth taking the time to check out. There is also a restaurant just downhill from the Airbnb that serves delicious food and offers a gorgeous view of the water.
Cinque Terre has a famous footpath ~ The Blue Trail. Normally, it can be hiked from all five villages but currently it’s under renovation. (2024) Currently, the only portion of the trail that is open runs from Monterosso to Vernazza to Corniglia. Each section takes 1-2 hours to hike – not because of the distance but because of the terrain.
Day 1 Blue Trail: Vernazza to Corniglia.
After enjoying a homemade breakfast on the terrace, my husband and I headed out on the Blue Trail. The terrain was every bit as hard as it was going to our Airbnb. The benefit was only having a light backpack to carry.
We didn’t get a super early start, and the temperatures were on their way to the high 90s. A welcome sight was the local who lives on the trail at the halfway point. He has a phenomenal garden and orchard. From a small, makeshift stand, he sold lemonade with fresh slices of fruit as garnish. Literally the best freshly squeezed lemonade ever! It was just the fuel we needed to go the rest of the way.
As you walk this stretch of coastline, you will see the tiny peninsulas jutting out into the sea. On the tips are the five small towns that make up Cinque Terre. Rugged beauty at its best. If you’re debating travel, do it now. Your body isn’t getting any younger.
Once we arrived in Corniglia, we skimmed the town and then headed to the regional train station. Yet, it wasn’t quite as easy as it sounds. We had to descend 382 brick steps. Something to consider if you want to visit Corniglia.
A five minute train ride along the coast took us to the adjacent town of Manarola where we met up with our friends for lunch. From there we all boarded the train and took another five minute ride to Riomaggiore. Each town has its own lovely personality. Even the swimming and docking areas vary tremendously according to the lay of the land. You don’t need a set itinerary. Just go wandering and take in the sights.
Day 2 Blue Trail: Vernazza to Monterosso
The following day, my husband and I headed west on the Blue Trail. Again, the distance was short, but the terrain was more grueling than the day before. Did I mention it was 95+ degrees??
There were no delicious stops along the way, but the Mediterranean view was always beautiful.
Two hours later we arrived in Monterosso. We met up with our friends for lunch, then headed to the beach. We hadn’t reserved beach chairs ahead of time. It was totally by chance that four chairs opened up shortly after we arrived. A fun surprise was the fruit vendor who came walking by.
** Travel tip advice – call ahead and reserve your chairs. Also, wear water shoes as the pebbly beach was very painful on the soles of our feet.
Exploring Monterosso
Monterosso has a lot more shops and restaurants than the other villages. It is the largest village of the five by far. You can even find iced mochas! (A rarity throughout Italy) We really enjoyed popping in all of the various stores throughout the old town. There were your standard souvenirs, but they were outweighed by authentic, artistic wares.
The Best Restaurant in Vernazza
On our last night in Vernazza, we were searching for a place to eat. We walked to the water’s edge and the group said, “Hey, Jodi, run up those stairs and see if they have an open table.” I was on it, as I had been eyeing the castle terrace the last few days.
As luck would have it, there was the most beautiful spot for four available. They could seat us right then. We were expecting delicious food, but we had no idea what great service we were about to have. Our waiter, known as the hat guy, had us cracking up from the very beginning.
We could see the kitchen below through the vents, and it reminded us of the kitchen in Ratatouille. I even got invited down to meet the cooking staff! What a fantastic way to end our night.
A MUST when visiting: Ristourante Belforte
ROME
We left Vernazza at a time my alarm clock is not used to seeing. Walking down those rocky steps in the light of the moon, with our backpacks and carry-on in tow, was quite challenging.
Two train rides later, we arrived in Rome! Ahhh
How to stay in Rome for free
Our IHG hotel would be our home base for the next four nights. Normally $424 a night, we paid $0. This was achieved through Chase credit card points and the fourth night free offer, just like in Milan.
The hotel had a great pool, a pool bar, a spa, two restaurants and an indoor bar. Each night a gentleman played the grand piano for hours. It created such a nice atmosphere after a day of touring. The service by everyone, along with the meals, was fantastic.
Comic Relief
Funny story: Throughout our time together, I tended to want to go, go, go to see and experience as much as possible. The other three had been great troopers, but I could tell they were wearing down. No problem, I’ll go to the spa and let them relax. The response I got when I told them I had signed up for an oxygen mask treatment was priceless. More oxygen = more energy is what we all thought. Not a frequent visitor to spas, I was quite surprised when I found out I’d only be receiving a type of facial. No oxygen tank in sight! The group was relieved to know only my collagen received a boost, not my energy level.
Touring Rome Efficiently
Our time in Rome was limited, but we utilized the Hop-on-hop-off bus to cover more ground.
**Travel tip advice: If you purchase the electronic ticket version for the bus, make sure you have a portable charger with you.
On Sunday, the guys hung out at the hotel while my bestie and I headed out to scour the weekly flea market. It was an assortment of antiques, used clothing, new clothing, and random vendors. I was really looking forward to scoring some great deals on some unique items. It wasn’t a complete bust, but not what I expected.
Touring Tips
**Italy travel advice: Go in every church you walk by even if the front doesn’t seem that alluring. A quick peek inside will surprise you every time.
Trevi Fountain
A major touristy area, but one that’s hard to pass up.
Did you know that the euros tossed in the Trevi Fountain ($3000/night) are collected and used to support programs serving the homeless?
Jewish Ghetto
Within the city of Rome is a section called the Jewish Ghetto. I love this neighborhood. It’s quaint and much quieter than the rest of the city. It’s authentic.
Something new (to me) from the last time I was there are the gold squares inserted in the cobblestones. Each one is a memorial to the Jew that was taken from his/her home during the Holocaust. The squares are placed in front of the doors where they lived.
It’s crazy to think about these children and adults walking down this same side street, living life, and then one day that was all taken away from them.
Adding Pompeii to Your Italian Vacation
We did something crazy. We paid for two hotel rooms for the same night. Foolish? Hear me out.
We knew we wanted to take a day trip to Pompeii. The timing and logistics led us to consider getting an Airbnb for the night prior to our tour. Instead of hauling our clothes down to Pompeii and back, as well as losing out on the IHG free night deal, we opted to book two places. It worked out so well, and I’d recommend it to anyone. All we had to take was a backpack with one day’s clothing and cosmetics.
I came across this ‘cave’ on Airbnb months and months in advance. We booked it right away because it looked so cool. It ended up exceeding our expectations tenfold. From the beginning, the host communicated well and answered many, many questions. He had offered to pick us up at the train station to make navigation easier. What a surprise it was to find out our host, a 22-year-old young man, was the one I had been corresponding with. He not only provided transportation, he cooked THE most amazing meal, and presented a fantastic place to stay. (His family also has a castle Airbnb if anyone wants to go with me!!)
The food was so fresh. His dad literally went down to the orchard to pick lemons for our gelato. We were so stuffed by the fourth course.
Watching the sun set over the bay and Mount Vesuvius was gorgeous. The town was below us and it was so amazing to watch it light up as the darkness set in.
I just can’t say enough good things about this place. If you need an Airbnb in Pompeii, this is it!
Pompeii Day 2
There are so many Pompeii touring options. We found a comprehensive tour that included the ruins, a lunch at a winery and horseback riding around the base of Mount Vesuvius.
Our day in Pompeii began with a tour of the ruins. It was a much larger area than any of us expected. 160 acres have been excavated. I think every time a person goes, they could see something new. The guide was excited because the theater was open for the first time in several months.
Random fact: The citizens were taxed on their pee.
After our tour, a van took us to a winery where we had lunch and sampled wines. Their claim to fame is that their vineyards grow in soil that has a unique composition since it’s at the base of Mount Vesuvius.
A short van ride uphill and we came to the winery’s stables. The horseback ride took us through the vineyard and around a portion of the base of Mount Vesuvius.
Two train rides later, we were back in Rome with our room waiting for us, as was the Italian pianist at the lounge.
Our Dream Italian Vacation
One thing about travel is that there are a million variations to every trip. Although we all know it costs money to travel, it’s typically not a fun topic to address. By saving thousands of dollars through credit card points, hotel incentives and additional programs, we were able to maximize our time and do practically everything our hearts desired.
The world is absolutely amazing. If you have a destination that really pulls at your heartstrings, know that there IS a way to make that trip happen. Feel free to email me at bountifulblessingstravelblog@yahoo.com with questions. I’d love to see your dreams become a reality.
Free Flights
To get our plane tickets for free, we used our sign-up points with the Chase credit card. We found a cheaper flight on Expedia and then used the Pay Yourself Back option to offset the charge. This can also be done to cover the cost of Airbnbs, restaurants and tours.
Additional Ways to Save Money on Travel
Becoming a member of Home Exchange is another great option for free lodging. It didn’t work out for this Italian vacastion, but I have used it several times throughout my travels. I’ve been a member for over two years and have already saved thousands of dollars. The platform is very user friendly as is the community.
Depending on your travel style and comfort level, staying in hostels across Europe is very affordable. You can get private rooms that share open spaces like the kitchen and lounge area. Hostels are great for all age groups. They are typically in sought after locations and the staff provides invaluable information about the local area.
On a smaller scale, downloading the Ibotta app saves you money when you grocery shop along with travel. I have acquired quite a few Airbnb gift cards through their bonuses.
Links to get you started:
Booking.com for hotels
Get Your Guide for classes and tours
Expedia and Cheap O Air are both great sites to compare flights
Trip Advisor for local recommendations and tours
Additional European Vacations
Every country in Europe has its own personality. I’ve fell in love with every country that I’ve visited. I really don’t think you can go wrong. Here are a few countries to get your travel bug revved up.
