I’m back from my honeymoon! And it was the best trip ever, I am not exaggerating. As someone who can at times find planning travel overwhelming I wanted to share a bit about my trip, and our planning process, and maybe help you simplify your travel process for your next trip.
How We Booked & Planned
Costco Travel
We booked our flights, train tickets, airport transfers, and hotel using Costco Travel and for the most part, I would recommend it to anyone. My only concern/complaint is that when we had issues with our flight the airline tried to make our lives more difficult, but I think that is more on Air France’s customer service as opposed to how we booked.
Google Maps
To plan our days/activities efficiently I utilized Google Maps to create a map for both Rome & Florence. I put suggested restaurants and activities on the maps and then tried to decide which options were near activities.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at NH hotels in both Rome & Florence and I cannot think of a better place to stay. Like just look at the view from their rooftop in Florence, immaculate. The staff was wonderful, the locations were optimal, and the rooms were comfortable and beautiful.
What We Did
Our days are rarely if ever jam-pack on vacation because we want to feel well rested by the end of the week while still doing all of the fun things we wanted to do.
Day 1: Pantheon & Trevi Fountain
Our first day was technically when we landed and we were exhausted so this was our first official day. We spent our time going to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain which were both beautiful. I personally have been in a very intense architecture phase, so this trip was definitely scratching that itch from the first activities.
Day 2: Vatican
So, of course, we had to do the Vatican Museums and see the Sistine Chapel, so that’s exactly what we did. Unfortunately, we can’t take pictures within the room but I will say it was easily one of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen in my life. Likely, THE most incredible thing. This was also our day to travel between Rome & Florence which was a great way to see what a beautiful country Italy is outside of the cities.
Day 3: The David & Shopping
Another day, more absolutely phenomenal art. On this day we went to the Gallery and saw some more incredible art and Michelangelo’s The David in person.
Day 4: Duomo, Sienna, & Wine Tasting
Our last day was not supposed to be our last day but our trip was cut a bit short due to the previously mentioned flight issues. We went on a guided tour of the Duomo in Florence and then headed on a tour to Sienna before our wine tasting that evening. The trip to Sienna was a nice break, and the opportunity to see one additional town plus the dinner and winetasting at a vineyard made it a fantastic final day before our flights home.
What We Ate
Of course, we ate at all the things but here’s a round-up of some of our favorites.
Pino’s Sandwich
Try the Magic Zbd, it was incredible.
Vivoli
Visit hear after your visit to Pino’s it’s around the corner. Get the affogato, you can’t go wrong.
Cocoquinarius
I recommend getting a reservation for this one, but if you can’t I was able to arrive a few minutes before they opened for dinner so I got one of the first tables without issue. Get the cheese and pear ravioli, you will not regret it.
La Piccola
There’s no wrong choice on this menu, I promise.
Grom
Grom is a chain that you can find around Italy, stop in for some delicious gelato flavors.
Some Tips
- If you’re doing some shopping and using the VAT tax remember you do it at your final stop in Italy, unless it’s in a checked bag, then you should try and do it at customs before dropping off your bags at check-in.
- Take the time to sit, take in the view, and have a spritz or coffee, don’t overbook yourself.
- Bring your patience, there are a lot of tour groups at the popular sites, and they can get in the way.
Where would you go on your honeymoon?
