Itinerary

A week in Italy sounds like an incredible adventure, especially with your son. With a car at your disposal, you’ll have the freedom to explore some of the most beautiful regions of the country. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your 7-day trip, starting in Rome and making your way north. Buckle up for a week of history, culture, and delicious food!

## Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Morning:

• Land in Rome and pick up your rental car.
• Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Colosseum. Pre-book your tickets to skip the lines! Explore this ancient amphitheater and imagine the gladiators in action.
• Stroll through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, soaking in the history.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in the Trastevere neighborhood. Try some authentic Roman pasta, like Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara.
• Take a leisurely walk along the Tiber River and maybe grab some gelato for dessert!

## Day 2: Rome to Florence

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Vatican City. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums (don’t miss the Sistine Chapel!).

Afternoon:

• Hit the road to Florence (about a 3-hour drive).
• Check into your hotel and grab a quick lunch at a local café.

Evening:

• Visit the iconic Duomo and climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
• Dinner in the Oltrarno district, where you can find some great local trattorias.

## Day 3: Florence and Pisa

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo.
• Grab a quick breakfast at a local pastry shop.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Pisa (about 1.5 hours). Visit the famous Leaning Tower and take those classic tourist photos!
• Enjoy lunch in Pisa, perhaps a slice of pizza or a panini.

Evening:

• Return to Florence and enjoy a sunset walk along the Arno River.
• Dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Ponte Vecchio.

## Day 4: Florence to Cinque Terre

Morning:

• After breakfast, pack up and head to Cinque Terre (about a 2.5-hour drive).
• Park your car in La Spezia and take the train to the first village, Monterosso al Mare.

Afternoon:

• Spend the day exploring the colorful villages of Cinque Terre. Hike the trails between the villages if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Enjoy a seafood lunch with a view of the sea.

Evening:

• Have dinner in Vernazza, known for its picturesque harbor. Try some local seafood dishes and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 5: Cinque Terre to Milan

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in one of the villages.
• Spend the morning soaking in the last views of the stunning coastline.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Milan (about a 3-hour drive).
• Check into your hotel and grab lunch at a local café.

Evening:

• Visit the iconic Duomo di Milano and take the elevator to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the city.
• Dinner in the Brera district, where you can find a mix of traditional and modern Italian cuisine.

## Day 6: Milan to Lake Como

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the famous Last Supper painting (make sure to book tickets in advance!).
• Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some shopping or just to admire the architecture.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Lake Como (about a 1.5-hour drive).
• Check into your hotel and have lunch by the lake.

Evening:

• Take a boat ride on Lake Como, visiting charming towns like Bellagio or Varenna.
• Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, savoring the local cuisine.

## Day 7: Lake Como to Rome

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view of the lake.
• Spend the morning exploring more of Lake Como or relax by the water.

Afternoon:

• Start your drive back to Rome (about a 6-hour drive).
• Stop for lunch along the way, perhaps in a quaint town like Bergamo.

Evening:

• Arrive back in Rome. If time permits, take a final stroll through the city, maybe visiting the Trevi Fountain to toss a coin and make a wish!
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Roman restaurant.

Tips:

• Make sure to have a good GPS or map app for navigation.
• Try to learn a few Italian phrases; the locals appreciate it!
• Don’t rush; take your time to enjoy each place and make memories with your son.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Italy! Enjoy your trip! 🍝🚗🌍