RPM PR’s Guide to Italy
Heading to Italy soon? Between packing, planning, and booking your adventures, heading to a new country can be quite intimidating. Don’t worry -- the RPM PR crew is seasoned on all things Italia and we can’t wait to show you the ropes.
Fair warning though: The cobblestone steps, hustle and bustle of restaurants, architecture and clear blue seas of this beloved country might just make you stay forever.
The Lowdown: Hot Tips from our Traveling Crew
Know when to travel - Summer is the easiest time to take your family on a big vacation, but try to avoid going to Italy from late June to August. It is the hottest time of the year and can be somewhat unbearable! If you do go at this time however, pack light loose-fitting clothes and make sure to drink lots of water (Pellegrino included, of course).
Get comfortable shoes – This is a must. Leave the stilettos at home and lace up those walking shoes because you will want to explore this beautiful region on foot to take it all in.
Either a satchel or secure backpack– Keep your valuables close with a practical, safe back for your essentials.
Andiamo: Let’s go!
What to do, see, and of course, eat.
Rome
Oh Roma, the home of it all! From the endless winding streets to the perfectly sculpted Trevi Fountain, you will instantly fall in love with this historically beautiful city. The best and most affordable way to get around is on the Metro (or the Metropolitana as the Italians say). It will take you within walking distance of pretty much every landmark that you need to see.
To see:
Trevi Fountain - Make a wish and take in the jaw-dropping beauty of this famous fixture.
The Colosseum - Underground and Twilight tours are available and make the experience more than you could have imagined. An in-depth look at the Forum is also included in the underground tour.
Spanish Steps - Grab yourself a sandwich, post up on the steps and enjoy the endless people watching.
Vatican City- St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Sistine Chapel and much more are all located within Vatican City, which is its own state within Rome. If you’re lucky you may even run into the Pope!
To Do:
Cooking Class- That’s Amore is a restaurant in the center of Rome where you’ll find the most amazing cooking class. Get ready for a day of hand-making pasta and enjoying every last bite of your creations.
To Eat:
Pizza (of course!) – Practically every restaurant in the city offers different style of pizza. We highly recommend trying as many styles as possible.
Gelato – Treat yo’self! Get some authentic Italian Gelato, find a good spot to sit and take it all in.
Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre is arguably the most beautiful place in all of Italy. If you are looking for a destination where you can lay on the beach all day, go on a gorgeous scenic hike to a new city, or have a freshly caught fish dinner, Cinque Terra is your spot. Cinque Terre in English translates to Five Cities, and is named for the five cliffside cities that line its clear blue waters. o Travel between the different cities is easy with a train, fun boat rides, and easy scenic hiking.
To Stay:
Old Town Monterosso – This little village does not disappoint. Each day is something new: One day it might be a street fair in front of the beach, and the next it may be sampling the freshly homemade calamari of a local signora.
To Do:
Hike to the neighboring cities - This is a good way to get some fresh air and exercise while traveling while exploring new locations.
Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach – Why not take a break from site seeing and treat yourself to a day on the beach?
Stroll through town – TMake sure to take time for walks around where you are staying. Lose yourself in little corner stores, side streets and talking to locals… it won’t be time wasted.
Cimitero Monterosso – You might be thinking, “A cemetery?! On my vacation?” Trust us - the walk to the top is scenic and holds a ton of history.
To Eat:
Seafood pasta – All of the fish is caught and prepared fresh daily, and you won’t find it better anywhere else.
Florence
Hello, Firenze! With its art, piazzas, restaurants and shopping along the Arno, this historic city in the north is not to be missed. We recommend spending at least five days in Florence to see the essentials, and then heading to nearby Tuscany!
To Stay:
Any airbnb near the Duomo is ideal, and the most affordable option!
To Do:
Tour the Gucci Gardens - Discover the history behind the fashion house and take some Insta-worthy photos while you’re there.
The Boboli Gardens - Nestled above the city, these gorgeous gardens hold an amazing view.
Ponte Vecchio - This famous bridge over the Arno houses centuries-old jewelry stores.
Tour/Climb the Duomo- This grand, ornate church truly can’t be missed on your trip.
See the Statue of David - Check out the iconic, awe-inspiring Michaelangelo sculpture at Galleria dell'Accademia.
To Eat:
La Giostra - One of the most romantic restaurants in all of Florence, complete with a candle-lit dinner and complimentary prosecco.
L’Parione Ristorante - This is the best spot for a cheese plate in town, and a must-do for celebrations or birthdays.
Trattoria Del 13 Gobbi - You’ll never forget the killer pasta e fagioli.