Rome is a beautiful city, in fact I was pleasantly surprised by it. It is a big city experience with many tourists etc. I personally feel to get a real feel for Italy I would recommend a few days in Florence and then head out into the Tuscan / Umbrian countryside. I am in my forties and am no longer enthralled with big cities and night life etc. I was blown away by the Italians in the smaller hill towns and countryside. You could really immerse yourself in authentic Italy to a degree there. The food is simple but fabulous, opportunities for authentic wine tastings with the actual vintners is memorable. The pace is slower, you can hear the sheep bells jingle and the church bells tolling the half hours. And the beauty - well you have to go see for yourself, you will be forever changed.

Alice

I would suggest Florence for a few days of culture and shopping and then see and relax in some beautiful hilltowns like Montepulciano (great wine) and Pienza.

Ciao,

Alice

Italy in 7 days?

I'd like to plan a trip to Italy next July for one week. How many cities is it feasible to see in that amount of time? Should I stick to Northern or Southern Italy? My husband & i would like to go for sightseeing, food, wine and maybe even (a little) relaxing if time permits. Would love any advice, as I don't even know where to start!!