Italy Self Drive From Rome to Milan

About the destination: Modern and ancient, past and present coexist, constantly. Whether you're in Rome for 3 days, 3 weeks or 3 months, be ready to step into the world's largest open-air museum. Rome will charm you and it will hardly leave you unaffected. It will astonish you, as it has so much to offer to any visitor, and its beauty has merely been slightly obscured by the passage of time. Rome is one of the world's most photogenic cities - not surprising when you consider what's here - The Vatican, the Trevi Fountain, St Peter's Square, Spanish Steps, Colosseum... Whether you spend your time sightseeing, or lounging in cafes watching the world pass by, it will be your turn to star in your very own Roman Holiday. If you can plan to stay for at least a week, you won't run out of things to do and you'll still feel like you're leaving too soon.

About the destination: Siena is a city located in Tuscany, Italy. It serves as the capital of the Siena province. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • The Piazza del Campo, a unique shell-shaped plaza in the heart of the city, which twice a year becomes the racetrack for the Palio • The Palazzo Pubblico, which has been Siena's City Hall for nearly 800 years, houses the renowned frescoes depicting good and bad governance by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, frescoes by Simone Martini and Duccio, and provides access to the Torre del Mangia, from where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Sienese countryside. • The Duomo, Siena's stunning black and white Italian Romanesque cathedral, which includes the Libreria Piccolomini, Baptistery and an attached Museo dell'Opera del Duomo that houses the famous Maestà by Duccio. • The Pinacoteca, filled with Sienese paintings from the city's Medieval golden age. • The Palazzo Salimbeni, constructed in 1472, is the global headquarters of Monte dei Paschi di Siena, a major banking corporation that plays a significant role in the city's economic and cultural life. • The birthplace of St. Catherine of Siena is just a few blocks away from the duomo. • The Piccolomini Palace, constructed in 1459 by the renowned architect Bernardo Rossellino, a student of Leon Battista Alberti. The Piccolomini Palace is one of the most visited sites on the Piazza del Campo. This Florentine style palace houses the official archives of Siena.

About the destination: Florence remains as vibrant and beautiful today as it was when its wool and silk traders and bankers revolutionized the economy of 13th century Tuscany, and the art of Dante and Michelangelo left the world in awe. Florence was the heart of the Italian Renaissance. The results of the city's revival can still be seen in its seemingly endless array of museums, churches, and palaces. With its historic center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Duomo, the elegant and stunning cathedral, towers over the city and serves as a clear landmark during your explorations. The River Arno, which runs through the oldest part of the city, is topped with the Ponte Vecchio bridge, which is lined with shops and supported by stilts. Dating back to the 14th century, it is the only bridge that withstood attacks during WWII. Standing by the river at night, when the city is lit up with countless twinkling lights, is an unforgettable experience. But more than just stones and paint remain of Florence's unparalleled heritage; the city's unyielding spirit has also endured through the centuries, ensuring that Florentine life today is vibrant and sophisticated.

About the destination: Lucca is a city and municipality in Tuscany. Its extensive history dates back to the times of the Etruscans and Ancient Romans, and the city still maintains elements of Ancient architecture. Lucca's golden age was during the Gothic period, just before the Renaissance, and the city is home to many stunning pieces of architecture from that time. The existing defensive walls of Lucca were designed by Leonardo Da Vinci and have never been breached. Lucca remained a sovereign city-state until the late 18th century. The church of San Frediano is the only example of Lombard architecture that has been preserved without significant changes, except for the façade, which dates back to the year 1200. S. Maria foris Portam, S. Michele, S. Romano, and the other churches all house valuable works of art. The tomb of the Lucchese poet, Guidiccioni, is located in the church of S. Francesco (quattrocento). The Case Guinigi and the Guinigi Tower are wonderful examples of Medieval architecture in Lucca. The Case Guinigi were a collection of mansions and towers where one of the city's most influential families, the Guinigi, resided. The vast and well-preserved villas and gardens in the hills of Lucca have become a major attraction for visitors to the city.

About the destination: The city of Pisa once competed with Genoa and Venice as a naval power, mirrored Padua and Perugia as a university city, and developed a unique style of Romanesque architecture. Today, the city is famous for an architectural project that went horribly wrong and depends on the influx of tourists who visit the city daily. The most significant monuments are located in the Piazza del Duomo. The baptistery, cathedral, Leaning Tower, and Camposanto stand out like carved ivory, emerging from a wide expanse of bright green grass. The cathedral houses Giovanni Pisano's masterful pulpit, with its intensely dramatic Gothic reliefs. You can make your unsteady way to the top of the Torre Pendente, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, from which local resident Galileo Galilei dropped various objects in his quest to understand gravity. Education has driven the local economy since the 1400s, and students from all over Italy still compete for spots in its prestigious university and research schools and help maintain a lively and affordable cafe and bar scene. This metropolis of a hundred thousand residents is much more than a tower; it's a city rich in art and history.

About the destination: Forte dei Marmi ([ˈfɔrte dei ˈmarmi] in Italian) is a seaside town and municipality in the province of Lucca, in northern Tuscany, Italy. It is the birthplace of Paola Ruffo di Calabria, who was the Queen of the Belgians from 1993 to 2013. The main occupation of the residents of Forte dei Marmi is tourism. The town's population, which is around 7,700, nearly triples during the summer due to the influx of tourists primarily from Florence, Milan, Germany, and Russia. Forte dei Marmi is a popular destination among the Italian upper class. The city features a gate that was constructed in a former swamp, a historical artifact that speaks to the strategic planning of the ancient Roman army.

About the destination: Portofino is an Italian fishing village and vacation resort famous for its picturesque harbour and historical association with celebrity and artistic visitors. It is a comune located in the province of Genoa on the Italian Riviera. The town is clustered around its small harbour, and is known for the colourfully painted buildings that line the shore. Nearby beaches include Paraggi, Camogli, Chiavari, Lavagna, and Sestri Levante. There are some notable attractions as well are the beaches, but the view from the harbor or any of the surrounding beaches is unforgettable and one could spend the entire day marveling at it.

About the destination: Enchanting Stresa: A Jewel of the Italian Lakes Nestled on the shores of the magnificent Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, Stresa is a picturesque town that offers a blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and Italian elegance. Known for its stunning views of the snow-capped Alps and the serene waters of the lake, Stresa has been a beloved retreat for poets, artists, and travelers seeking inspiration and tranquility. Upon arrival in Stresa, visitors are captivated by the grandeur of the Belle Epoque hotels and the lush gardens that line the lakefront promenade. A leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets reveals a collection of quaint shops, delightful cafes, and intimate restaurants where one can indulge in the region's culinary delights, such as fresh fish from the lake, rich cheeses, and exquisite wines. The town's piazzas, with their lively ambiance, are perfect spots to savor a gelato while soaking in the local culture. One of Stresa's most enchanting attractions is the Borromean Islands, a group of three small islands and two islets that can be easily reached by a short boat ride. Isola Bella, the most famous of these, is home to the opulent Borromeo Palace with its terraced gardens that seem to float on the water. Isola dei Pescatori, with its charming fishing village and narrow lanes, offers a glimpse into traditional Italian life, while Isola Madre features a botanical garden renowned for its rare plant species and exotic birds. No visit to Stresa would be complete without taking the cable car to the summit of Mount Mottarone. The journey offers panoramic vistas that stretch from the lake's sparkling waters to the distant peaks of the Alps. At the top, adventure seekers can enjoy hiking trails in the summer or skiing in the winter, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can bask in the breathtaking scenery. Stresa is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a haven for the soul. Whether you're looking for romantic escapism, cultural exploration, or outdoor adventure, this Italian gem on the lake is sure to create unforgettable memories.

About the destination: Como is a city and municipality in Lombardy, Italy. It serves as the administrative capital of the Province of Como. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Volta Lighthouse. Offering some of the best views of the lake, this towering structure allows you to gaze down at the lake from a height of about 2000 feet. • Cathedral. • Tempio Voltiano. A pleasant stop on your walk along the waterfront, this temple dedicated to Volta is designed in a neoclassical style. • War Memorial. • City Walls. The remnants of the 12th-century city walls, which surround the narrow, winding streets of the old town. • Isola Comacina. A small island featuring the ruins of several Byzantine churches.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European ambiance, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. This capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - a powerhouse in sectors ranging from finance to fashion, and of course, football. However, what sets Milan apart is its standing as the hub of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels, and paparazzi flock to the city biannually for its spring and fall fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama, and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. Undoubtedly, it's one of the best places in Italy for shopping, or even just window shopping. As Italy's primary industrial, commercial, and financial center, Milan unsurprisingly has a business-like demeanor. At first glance, it may not seem impressive, but if you take the time and make an effort to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle, and you'll find impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the trendy Brera district and vibrant university quarter, not to mention a landmark like the Duomo, or the fact that the city proudly houses Leonardo da Vinci's 15th-century masterpiece, The Last Supper. Milan leaves no room for criticism when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife usually begins at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo, where locals relax with after-work drinks and snacks before heading home, is more the norm than the exception. So, whether you’re in search of affordable fashion, an alternative city getaway, or an opportunity to paint the town red, Milan undoubtedly has it all.