Italy isn’t a place that’s easy to forget. Ever since I took a mother daughter trip to the country last year, the choppy waters, delicious food, unmatched architecture and great leather shops have been on my mind. I had a sponsored trip with Collette Travel as my guide, and over my 12-day itinerary, I saw the most popular places in Italy, as well as some hidden gems. Take a look back with me at two of the magical cities I visited, beyond Cinque Terre and Lake Como.
1. Architectural Marvels in Florence
One of the best parts of international travel is being able to enjoy stunning architecture that isn’t widely found in the States. If you’re an art and architecture fan, Florence will be a little bit of heaven! This city has lots of iconic sites and sculptures (think Michelangelo’s David or the red dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), and I had the opportunity to just scratch the surface of what Florence has to offer. The place is truly magnificent and has that classic Renaissance vibe you expect from an old-world European city.
Florence, or Firenze in Italian, has so many attractions that I’d highly recommend any over 60 traveler go with a guided tour. While traveling with Collette, our itinerary included all the iconic attractions, but also left plenty of free time to go wandering with my daughter. After a few days in Florence, here’s what I think are the must-sees:
Duomo Cathedral. This cathedral is an incredible example of Italian architecture. And it may not be exactly what you expect! When we think of Italian buildings, we think of bright white pillars and cobblestones. But the Duomo Cathedral is something special. Instead of stark white, it incorporates gorgeous shades of deep green and lots of intricate detailing. The looming cathedral seems right out of a story book!
Ponte Vecchio. You might have seen this famous bridge gracing postcards, but nothing beats the real thing! Get a scoop of gelato and walk the centuries-old Ponte Vecchio in the middle of buzzing Florence.
2. Luxe Travel in Venice
There’s no place like the Floating City! Venice really is as fabulous as you’ve heard! My time in town kicked off with the Hotel Ca’ dei Conti. It was classy and spacious—I felt just like a queen lounging in my room. Then, my daughter Liz and I were off to St. Mark’s Square where I got myself a $15 cup of coffee. Expensive, but the ambiance of the renowned was worth it! Plus such a great photo backdrop.
3. Get a Look at Traditional Glass Blowing in Murano
I can’t talk about Venice without mentioning the canals and water taxis. These gondolas take tourists throughout the 117 Venetian islands, and I got to stop on Murano to visit a famous glass factory. The colorful, intricate glassware in shops around the island were out of this world!
A Quick Tip: Be Prepared for Flooding
My mother daughter trip to Venice wrapped up with something a little startling—a flood! Venetians know it as acqua alta, a period of high tide that occasionally floods the city’s narrow streets and wide piazzas. Although the locals know how to handle it (rainboots and raised walkways), I can’t help but feel sad at the city’s hardship. Thankfully, scientists are busy developing solutions to save sinking beloved Venice . It’s sunk almost six inches over the last century.
Despite the flooding, my time in Venice was a highlight of my Italy explorations with Collette. I highly recommend staying on the main island—it’s super convenient and takes on a magical quality after sunset. You simply have to see the sun go down over the canals at least once in your life! If you go, be sure to go the guided travel route and skip those long, long lines at the most iconic attractions.
Don’t Put Off Solo Travel to Venice
If you’re looking for guided travel recommendations, I can’t sing the praises of Collette Travel and Italy’s Treasures enough. I got to see the best the country had to offer—from Cinque Terre and Lake Como to the magic of Florence and Venice. There’s no time to waste! Get to this stunning, vibrant country as soon as possible. Check out my Instagram for more travel stories, tips, and tricks!