Complete 3 Chapters in a Memory Book While on a Family Vacation in Italy 

Chapter One: Florence 

Day One 

Upon arriving at the airport in Florence, you will pick up your luggage before being transported to your hotel. You will have ample time to unpack before heading out on your own to explore this beautiful city. After a delicious dinner, you can unwind in your room before turning in for the night.  

Day Two 

You will need to get up and moving on day two of your family vacation in Italy. This day begins with breakfast at your hotel. Then a local expert guide will take you on a stroll in the lesser popular areas of Florence.  

This five-hour long tour begins on the south side of the Arno River. You will walk over the Ponte Vecchio to where the tiny squares, workshops, and small boutiques are located. Other stops during this tour will include the Palazzo Pitti, Palatine Gallery, and Boboli Gardens.  

After your tour, your family can start sharing their favorite parts of your vacation in Italy. This will be the beginning of chapter one in your memory book from this family vacation.  

Day Three 

Magical adventures await you on day three in Florence. Today, your driver will take you to Mugello. The options of what your family can do here are endless. Someone may want to go horseback riding on the trails, while another person may want to go shopping at the outlets.  

If you decide to visit this area with your family, I will make sure everyone gets to do the things on their must-do list.  

Day Four 

A cooking class will keep everyone in your family busy on your last day in Florence. This four-hour class will be taught by a private chef.  

After arriving at class, your family will be taken to the local market to shop for the ingredients you will need to prepare the dishes of the day. A quick stop at a café after the market will allow everyone to enjoy a cappuccino or espresso before the cooking begins.  

During the cooking class, you will prepare a full course meal that includes between four or five dishes. This will include dessert. Once the dishes are all ready to eat, you will sit down to devour them and marvel at how well you all did during the process.  

This is definitely one of the best things you will love talking about when revisiting this chapter in your memory book in the future.  

Chapter Two: Radda in Chianti 

Day Five 

Day five will be an early day during your family vacation in Italy. This is the day your private driver will pick you up at your hotel to take you to Radda in Chianti. During the drive, you will be thankful you get to stop in San Gimignano for a little bit. There is plenty to see in this medieval town.  In fact, there are so many small towns to visit in Italy. I can easily add many of them to your personalized itinerary for your family vacation in Italy! 

After you arrive in this area of Chianti, you will check into your hotel. Then your family will have plenty of time to explore on your own or simply enjoy the amenities at your accommodations.  

Day Six 

After a leisurely breakfast, it will be time to head out to discover some of the best olive oils in the Tuscan region. By the end of today, you will know how olive oil is produced. Your family will also know the little secrets that make this the best olive oil in the world.  

Don’t worry, you will get to sample some of this olive oil. The olive oil will be paired with some local specialties, including desserts! Think about all the delicious foods you can add to this chapter of your memory book! I recommend taking lots of pictures, so you can try to recreate the recipes back home.  

Day Seven 

Yesterday was all about olive oil. Today is all about the wine in Chianti. Your first stop will be in villages like Gaiole and Castellina. A drive through the vineyards in the countryside will lead you to a winery where you will have a fabulous wine tasting.  

A little bruschetta, cheeses, and cold cuts will only enhance your wine tasting experience. Oh, and don’t worry if your kids aren’t old enough to drink wine. There will be plenty of things for them to do on this adventure without the wine!  

Chapter Three: Rome 

Day Eight  

After a quick breakfast at your hotel, you will get into a car driven by a private driver. Your driver will take you to the train station in Florence. Your family will board the train to Rome to begin the third chapter of your memory book for your vacation in Italy.  

Once you arrive in Rome, you will check into your hotel and then have the afternoon to relax or go out exploring. I recommend finding some gelato and indulging in it during your free time.  

Day Nine 

You will need to get up early on this first full day in Rome. The early wake up time will be worth it though to gain access to Vatican City before it opens to the public. This is an excellent time to wander around the Sistine Chapel without the crowds.  

From there, you will go to the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and at the end, St. Peter’s Square.  

After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Rome, you will head out with an expert driver to see other attractions in Rome. The first stop will be the Roman Forum. Next is the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, Circus Maximus, and Aventine Hill.  

Day Ten 

Today is your last full day in Rome, so you will want to make the best of it to fill chapter three of your memory book. Your private driver will take you to all the remaining must-see sights in Rome.  

A few of the stops you make will include the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Fountain of the Barcaccia, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.  

Lunch and the entire afternoon will be yours after the tour. Take this time to grab a few more family photos and revisit your favorite sights in the city.  

Day Eleven 

Your time in Rome, and the rest of Italy, has come to an end. After breakfast at your hotel, a driver will take your family to the airport in Rome for your flight home.  

These three chapters in your memory book will have filled up quickly during this family vacation in Italy. It will be up to you to continue adding more chapters to your memory book in the future. And one of the best ways to do that is to continue planning family vacations!  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized itinerary for your next family trip to Italy or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the exciting travel information I share.  

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Experience 6 Fabulous Days in Rome During a Family Vacation 

Day One 

After arriving at the airport in Rome, you will be taken to your hotel to check in. After unpacking, you will have a little time to relax before you head out on a food tour.  

Your tour will take you to the neighborhoods in Trastevere and Campo de’ Fiori. This is the perfect time to taste authentic Italian cuisine. By the end of this walking tour, you will have enjoyed more than a full meal. I guarantee you will be stuffed by the time you return to your hotel.  

Day Two 

Your second day in Rome will be a day all to yourselves. Feel free to walk the streets, as you capture family photographs. Relax at a local café. Eat a little gelato. Talk to the locals you meet along the way.  

Day Three 

Now that you have learned a little about this city from wandering around, it will be time to head out on a guided tour. Today’s adventure will begin at the Ponte Sisto Bridge. You will walk to the Trastevere District. Embrace the narrow streets and lively piazzas before crossing the Tiber River to enter the Jewish Ghetto.  

The streets in this area are even smaller Yet, they are all full of history. You will learn more about that history when you enter the Synagogue to explore the Jewish Museum.  

Day Four 

Today will be a busy day for your family in Rome. In the morning, you will explore many of the sites that made up ancient Rome. The three sites on your list to see are the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum.  

After a hearty lunch, it will be time to explore Vatican City. Your family will start at the Vatican Museums. There are so many art galleries to explore during this tour. The highlight though will be the Sistine Chapel. The frescoes by Michelangelo are simply breathtaking!  

A stop at St. Peter’s Basilica will be next. It is the largest church in the world. Masterpieces by Michelangelo and Bernini can be seen inside.  

Before heading back to your hotel, your family will spend some time in St. Peter’s Square.  

Day Five 

After a few days in the bustling city of Rome, your family will be happy to escape to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. Your driver will pick you up early in the day.  

In the morning, your family can spend time exploring the towns of Positano and Amalfi. Then it will be time to head to Pompeii to explore the city that was buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted thousands of years ago. Seeing this preserved site will allow you to understand how the ancient Romans lived and spent their time.  

Check out these 8 World Heritage Sites every family should consider seeing! 

Day Six 

Your last day in Rome will have you seeing St. Mary Major and St. John’s in Lateran. These are both major basilicas in Rome. The former is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, while the latter was the very first Papal residence.  

Afterwards, it will be time to stop at the Holy Stairs before going to the Christian Catacombs. The underground Christian cemetery is quite the sight to see.  

Your days in Rome will have come to an end when this tour is over. You will either head to the airport to catch a flight this evening or you will stay at your hotel and fly out in the morning.  

Six days in Rome may or not be enough for your family vacation. We can discuss this and so much more, as I am gathering information that will help me personalize your family’s itinerary. After all, this trip is for you, so why shouldn’t you be able to do the things you want instead of following another person’s itinerary!  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your trip to Rome or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter to continue to receive all the travel information I share.  

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7 Day Amazing Vacation in Rome, Pompeii, and Venice with Family

Day One: Rome 

This fabulous 7-day vacation Rome, Pompeii, and Venice will have you exploring with your very own English-speaking guide. Your guide will meet you when you land at the airport in Rome.  

After you are checked in at your hotel, you will have the chance to relax or head out to explore a little on your own. You will be given a city map, as well as other information, so you can plan your next few hours accordingly.  

You may want to head to bed early. After all, you have a busy few days ahead of you. Plus, it may be the best way to avoid jet lag. Just don’t go to bed too early! If you do, you will be awake long before you need to.  

Day Two: Rome 

It is finally time to really explore this beautiful city in Italy. And yet, today’s adventure will have you heading outside of Rome to experience the Anzio Beachhead Museum.  

Day Three: Rome 

Don’t worry, you will stay in Rome for day three of your family vacation. You will begin in Vatican City. There you will see St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museum, and the Sistine Chapel.  

Afterwards, you will be driven to Borghese Park, Castle Sant’Angelo, and Circus Maximus. Pay close attention to the Roman Forum. It is where Mark Antony spoke over the body of Julius Caesar.  

Your last stop will be the Colosseum.  

Day Four: Naples and Pompeii 

Day four of your vacation in Rome will be a big one. This is when you will travel from Rome to Naples and Pompeii. The journey to Naples will take place via train. You will then meet your driver, who will take you to Pompeii.  

This historic site was destroyed by an erupting volcano. Archaeologists have begun the difficult task of unburying this city to see the treasures that are still present down below. Your family will be able to see parts of this preserved city.  

A few of the things you will see include forums, villas, and baths. Inside some of the homes, you will see signs of what people were doing when the volcano erupted.  

After your visit, you will be driven back to the train station in Naples for your journey back to Rome.  

Day Five: Venice 

There is plenty to do in Rome, but staying in Venice will become one of the highlights of your family vacation. If you are getting tired from your trip, you will have time to take a nap during the train ride from Rome to Venice.  

When you arrive in Venice, you will take a water taxi to your hotel. After you have checked in, it will be time to head out on a gondola ride. This is a perfect time to take in the sights of the city, while relaxing. You can capture pictures along the way, or simply take it all in without distractions. Totally up to you! 

Day Six: Venice 

You may have had a glimpse of Venice from your gondola ride yesterday, but today will have you out exploring the rest of the city.  

A walking tour will allow you to see all the highlights of Venice. Start at St. Mark’s Square to see St Mark’s Basilica, St. Mark’s Campanile, and Doge’s Palace. Take a walk on the Bridge of Sighs. Check out the Venetian palaces at Campo Santa Maria Formosa.  

End your tour at the Rialto Bridge.  

Day Seven: Venice 

This is your last day in Italy. It will have been a whirlwind adventure for your family. Depending on the time of your flight, you may have a little time to explore before you head to the airport.  

And then it will be, arrivederci, until you return to vacation in Rome, Pompeii, and Venice in the future.  

As you can see, a family vacation in Rome doesn’t mean time in just that city. There are dozens of other destinations you can visit in Italy during your time away from home. Let me help you decide where your family should visit as I am personalizing your itinerary for your trip.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary in Italy or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and always receive all the travel information I share.  

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Enjoy a 9 Day Tour of Italy 

Day One: Chianti 

The very first day of your family vacation in Italy will have you arriving at the airport in Florence. After gathering your luggage, you will be taken directly to your hotel.  

It is best if we reserve a hotel for you in the main square of Radda in Chianti. This will allow you to wander around to learn more about the history of the area. However, it is not necessary, and I can find a hotel in another beautiful area.  

This is the best time to get acquainted with Chianti. After all, it is one of the best small towns in Italy. Meet the locals. Dine in the local restaurants. And check out the nearby vineyards and wineries.  

Day Two: Florence 

On your first full day in Italy, your family will get to explore Florence. A two-hour private tour will allow you to walk through the Cradle of the Renaissance. During your tour, you will have the opportunity to see the Loggia dei Lanzi near the Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery near Palazzo Vecchio.  

Other attractions you may have time to see include the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Piazza della Repubblica.  

Before you leave Florence, rub the nose of ‘il Porcellino’, which is a legendary boar. According to legend, rubbing this boar’s nose ensures you will return to Florence again one day! 

After your walking tour, it will be time to board a boat for a tour. The three-hour boat tour will take you through the Oitrarno and Lungarno areas of Italy. This boat ride includes a glass of wine paired with meats and cheeses.  

Day Three: Chianti 

If you want to prepare authentic Italian meals after your 9-day tour of Italy, you must take a cooking class during your vacation. Day three of your family vacation in Italy can be spent learning from a Chianti chef.  

Your chef will show you how to use fresh local ingredients to make a homemade meal. This is a hands-on experience that will allow your family to do something fun while making memories.  

At the end of your cooking session, you will be able to sit down to enjoy your meal with some regional wines. 

Day Four: Chianti  

Day four of your tour of Italy will be all about the Chianti area. The entire day will be spent driving throughout Chianti with your own private tour guide. You will explore vineyards that produce the grapes that create some of the best Chianti wines.  

Don’t skip past the olive trees or the cypresses in favor of the vineyards. They all create beautiful backgrounds for family pictures.  

Lunch will be devoured, along with some fine wine, at a local winery. Afterwards, you will be taken back to your hotel for a little rest and relaxation.  

Day Five: Sorrento 

Day five is a travel day for your family. This is the day when you will say goodbye to Chianti and say hello to Sorrento. You will take the high-speed train from Florence to Naples. A driver will then take you to your hotel in Sorrento.  

Since this will be a long travel day, a short walk at the end of the day may be all you want to do before retiring for the night.  

Day Six: Amalfi Coast 

The Amalfi Coast is waiting for you on day six of this 9-day tour of Italy. Your private tour guide will drive you all along the Amalfi Coast for eight hours. The stunning views will keep you all captivated. However, make sure you pay close attention to all the attractions.  

Some of the favorite attractions include the Castle ruins, Cathedral, and the Palazzo Rufolo near Piazza Vescovado. In the town of Amalfi, check out the Cathedral of St. Andrew. Just save a little time for shopping at the boutiques in the alleyways.  

Before heading back to your hotel, your guide will take you to the town of Positano. Walk around the streets filled with yellow and pink houses or spend time at the magnificent beaches. The choice is yours towards the end of this day.  

Day Seven: Capri 

You cannot spend time in this part of Italy and not venture out to the island of Capri. Your boat tour will leave from the port of Sorrento.  

During this adventure, your family will see the Lighthouse of Punta Carena, the Natural Arch, Villa Malaparte, and the Jump of Tiberius. You will also be taken to hidden gems like the infamous white, green, and blue grottos.  

Day Eight: Sorrento 

This is your last full day of vacation in Italy. Your family can explore Sorrento on your own or simply enjoy the amenities at the hotel. No matter what you do, make sure you start to relive the memories you have made during this family vacation in Italy.  

Day Nine: Naples 

Your tour of Italy has quickly come to an end. It is now time to travel to Naples to board the plane back home. Depending on the time of your flight, you may have a little time for a quick walk in the morning when you wake up.  

Say goodbye to Sorrento and eventually to Italy, as you promise to return again one day.  

Italy is a beautiful country. It is one of the countries that is usually on people’s travel bucket list. If you have been wanting to take a tour of Italy, I can personalize an itinerary for your family trip to Italy. We can discuss all the possibilities when we chat.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized itinerary for your next family vacation in Italy or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel news I share.  

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Must-See Small Towns in Italy to Visit 

Parma 

The town of Parma is located within the Emilia-Romagna region. Many people only think of this town as the area where Parmigiano Reggiano was created. But there is so much more to this small town in Italy than cheese.  

This historic town was constructed by the ancient Romans. The colorful streets are full of history. You can learn a lot about that history from the locals. And by walking around. 

Oh, and yes, this is a foodie destination too. In addition to Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar and prosciutto are what this area is known for. So, bring your appetite. You will need it when exploring, and eating your way through, Parma!  

Ustica 

The town of Ustica can be found on the island with the same name. It isn’t too far from Palermo, Sicily. This is one of the best places in Italy for snorkeling, diving, and seeing archaeological sites. Hike along the trail to Rocca Della Falconiera before diving deep into the water to see marine life.  

Your family will want to spend the entire day in Ustica. Although, when it is time to catch the ferry back to the mainland, no one will want to actually leave this island.  

Santo Stefano di Sessanio 

Santo Stefano di Sessanio is a town in Italy that is full of cobblestone streets, stone-paved stairs, and narrow tunnels. It is a charming destination that will have you wanting more.  

It is important to note that an earthquake did quite a bit of damage here back in 2009. You may still see some repairs that need to be completed during your visit. No worries though. The locals are very welcoming despite the work that still needs to be done.  

Greve 

Greve is a small town that is only approximately twenty miles from the city of Florence. This is an excellent small town in Italy to visit when you want to relax and immerse yourselves into the lives of the locals.  

Wander around this small town slowly, as you enter cheese shops, restaurants, and wine stores. Stop at the farmers’ markets, meet the locals, and enjoy the slow pace of the town.  

Dozza 

Dozza is another small town in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Many travelers choose to spend at least half a day exploring this town. Dozza is best known for its fortified castle, as well as a regional wine cellar. Visit after hundreds of murals have been painted on city walls by world-known artists for the best experience.  

Lake Iseo 

You can never go wrong with a visit to Lake Iseo during a family vacation in Italy. This lake offers a calmer vibe than Lake Como. Spend time out on the water before wandering through the multiple small villages that surround the lake.  

Montefalco 

The best views of Umbria can be seen from the small town of Montefalco. The best place to see in this town is the Church of Francesco. However, stick around to learn more about the history, art, and architecture of the town. You won’t regret all you learn during your visit. Or the memories you will make here that you will cherish forever.  

Herculaneum 

Herculaneum is the sister city of Pompeii. This small town was also buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted back in the year 79 AD. Since this small town in Italy is not as well known, there won’t be the crowds like you see in Pompeii.  

Take the time to visit to see the ruins that include well-preserved skeletons.  

Oh, and I’ll understand if you don’t want to skip visiting Pompeii. If that is the case, simply add both these towns to your list of places to see in Italy. I will make sure they both get on your itinerary as I am personalizing for your family vacation.  

These are some of the must-see small towns in Italy you will want to consider visiting during your family vacation. There are a few others, and we can talk about whether another small town should be on your list during your family trip to Italy. I will make sure your family sees everything you want to, as I personalize your vacation itinerary.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary that includes these small towns in Italy or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the exciting travel information I share.  

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Want to see more of Italy? See if this Italy family adventure checks off all the boxes! 

Best Things to Do in Lake Como 

Visit Bellagio 

Bellagio is one of the most romantic destinations in Lake Como. But don’t worry; the kids will have a blast during your visit! Boutiques fill the streets. Those boutiques are perfect for all the shopping adventures your kids want to have.  

You can always visit Bellagio for a day. You will discover plenty of trattorias and wine bars. Those are all perfect when your family is starving and needs something to eat.  

Check Out the Duomo di Como 

You cannot take a family trip to Lake Como and not visit the Duomo di Como. This is also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta or Como Cathedral. This is one of the most important religious buildings in all of Italy.  

This cathedral was constructed between the 14th and 18th centuries. Numerous architectural styles are seen on the inside due to the length of the construction.  

The best way to appreciate this cathedral is to look at it from the piazza. The façade is simply stunning.  

Head Out on a Boat Tour 

Time in Lake Como can be spent doing a lot of family activities. However, one of the activities that should be near the top of your list is taking a boat tour. I always say any boat tour in this region is one of the best things to do in Lake Como.  

Public boat tours make stops at all the popular towns along the lake. I can also arrange for a private boat tour for your family vacation. These tours will allow you to see only the towns and sights along the lake that interest your family.  

Play at the Beach 

There are plenty of beaches surrounding Lake Como. Bellagio and Varenna are the best beach towns. If you are searching for a quieter beach space, though, Comacina Island is your best option.  

I recommend choosing the beach you visit carefully. Especially if your family plans on participating in watersports. Some beaches rent kayaks, pedal boats, and sailboats, while others do not.  

Tour a Lake Como Villa 

There are quite a few historic villas that overlook Lake Como. Touring one of these villas is one of the best things to do in Lake Como. Museums and works of art can be found at Villa Bernasconi and Villa Monestero. Over at Villa Melzi and Villa D’Este, you will want to check out the magnificent gardens.  

Ride the Funicular Up to Brunate 

Brunate is a town that sits on a hill above Lake Como. I recommend riding the funicular up to the charming town during your family vacation in Lake Como. The ride takes approximately seven minutes. And the scenery changes immensely along the way.  

The views from anywhere at the top are gorgeous. Although, in my opinion, they are best seen from the Faro Voltiano lighthouse.  

Take a Hike 

There are multiple hiking trails that begin close to Lake Como. Each trail leads you through the woods and stone villages. Your family can choose one of the easier hikes to scenic areas. Or you can decide to tackle one of the more difficult trails that can take a couple of days to complete. Totally up to you!  

Go Wine Tasting 

No family trip to Italy will ever be complete until you have done a little wine tasting. The Lake Como region produces some of the best Italian wines. I can plan a wine-tasting tour for you, so you can visit a few vineyards in a single day. Or you can simply stop at the vineyards you will be near each day of your family vacation in Lake Como.  

The kids can wander around the vineyards, working off some energy. And you can sit and enjoy some fine wine. Family vacations don’t get any better than this!  

These are some of the best things to do in Lake Como during a family vacation in Italy. Your entire time in this region can be spent creating memories with your family as you enjoy long conversations and a few laughs. The best part is I can easily personalize your family trip to Lake Como. This way, you see what you want and do the activities that everyone will love.  

So, are you ready to get your personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here for my personalized family vacation planning session. When you click this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation itinerary yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the exciting travel news I share each week.  

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Check Out These Hidden Gems in Venice 

Explore Cannaregio 

Cannaregio is the Jewish quarter in Venice. This ancient area is full of old synagogues, wine bars, and bakeries. Arrive early to start walking around. But stay late. You won’t want to miss watching the sun set over the Ormesini Canal.  

Head Over to Pellestrina Island 

If you truly need to escape Venice for the day, I recommend heading over to Pellestrina Island. You can easily walk all over the island. You can also explore the island by bike. Spend your day talking to the locals. The fishermen will probably be mending their nets, while the moms will be keeping track of their kids. This is more like your neighborhood back home. Embrace it and make a few new friends.  

Visit Torcello Island 

Another island worthy of a visit is Torcello Island. Your first stop should be the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Before you leave, attempt to cross the Ponte del Diavolo. It is one of two bridges in the city that do not have parapets. Make a bet with your family that you can cross the bridge without falling in. Then win that bet and plan to rub it in every chance you get.  

Walk Down Calle Varisco 

Calle Varisco is the narrowest street in Venice. It is one of the hidden gems in Venice that most people do not know exists. The street is only twenty-one inches wide at one point. Grab a few selfies here and marvel at the fact that this is one street that isn’t crowded, despite its small size.  

Grab a Few Books at the Libreria Acqua Alta 

This bookstore has a unique way of storing its books. They place them in boats, gondolas, barrels, and even fish aquariums. All in hopes that the books don’t get ruined when the streets, and even the store, flood throughout the year.  

Pay close attention when you climb the stairs into this bookstore. The stairs are made from old encyclopedias. Once inside, grab a few books you will love to read. Then sit near a canal and enjoy a few pages.  

Go Shopping at the Rialto Market 

Next to the Rialto Bridge is the Rialto Market. Although, you wouldn’t believe the number of people who do not realize this market is tucked away here. Walk around slowly to find the best deals. Purchase what you need for a picnic lunch and a little extra for later on.  

The best part of visiting this market is you still get to see the bridge that everyone in Venice loves.  

Head Over to San Giorgio Maggiore 

The views from San Giorgio Maggiore are better than those at St. Mark’s Square. In order to see them, though, you must take a boat over to the island. Since not many people will go through the trouble of riding on a boat, you won’t need to wait too long to see the views. You won’t be rushed through the experience either.  

These are the hidden gems in Venice you must be aware of when you visit there on a family vacation. Going to see many of these hidden gems will get you away from the crowds and allow you to see authentic Venice.  

So, are you ready to book a family vacation and check out these hidden gems in Venice?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready to schedule a family vacation? Sign up for my newsletter and receive all the travel information I share.  

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Exploring Matera Village in Italy 

With so much to see and do while exploring Matera Village in Italy, it can be difficult to determine what should be higher up on your list. Thankfully, I have discovered some of the best things to see and do in Matera Village and I am going to share them with you!! 

Best Things to See and Do in Matera Village 

The Sassi District 

You cannot spend time in Matera Village and not see the Sassi District. I recommend beginning by looking down at this district. The best places to see it from above are Piazza Vittorio Veneto and Piazza Sedile. Afterwards, walk down the stairs to see the cave houses, as well as the Church of San Pietro Caveoso.  

The Historic Center 

The Historic Center of Matera Village is within the Piazza Vittorio Veneto. This lively square is filled with cafés, churches, and even the remains of Romans. A visit during the day is a must, but so is one at night. It is during the nighttime hours when the fountain lights up to create even more of a pleasant ambiance.  

Casa Noha and Casa Grotta 

Both these houses are replicas of what each one of the Sassi houses would have looked like back when they were lived in. Since the original Sassi houses are not furnished or used anymore, this is the closest you will get to the original dwellings.  

The Cathedral 

The cathedral in Matera Village is from the 13th century. It is dedicated to Santa Maria Della Bruna. The inside of the cathedral contains a fresco of the Last Judgement from the 14th century. You can visit this cathedral at any time of the year. However, I find that being there in July for the Festival of the Madonna Bruna is the best time to visit.  

The Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera 

The Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera, or MUSMA to the locals, is located inside a cave palace from the 17th century. It is an art museum that is filled with modern sculptures.  

Rupestrian Churches 

There are more than one hundred churches in Matera Village. Each one offers stunning views of intricate décor and works of art. I recommend stopping into as many of the churches you pass by during your Matera Village vacation as possible.  

These are the best things to see and do while exploring Matera Village in Italy. All these things should be at the top of your itinerary. However, there are many others you can add to your family vacation in Matera Village.  

So, are you ready to start planning a family vacation to explore Matera Village in Italy?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

And if you are not ready to explore Matera Village on a family vacation, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you never miss any of the exciting travel information I share.  

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