Known for its rich history, amazing food, fashion, and its boot-like shape, Italy seems to be on everyone's travel bucket list. This summer, I got the chance to go to Italy for six days and traveled to these three cities: Rome, Florence, and Venice.
First Stop: Rome!
Located a short train ride from the Vatican City, Italy's capital, Rome was near the top of my visit list. Views like the Colosseum or Trevi Fountain did not disappoint and neither did the delicious food I had during my stay. When in Rome, the pasta dishes are a must. Each restaurant makes their own sauce and pasta, giving even basic dishes their own unique twist.
Travel tip: Use Google Maps! You can download the map before your trip and navigate your way like a pro.
Filetti di Baccalà
Largo dei Librari 88, Rome, Latium, 00186, Italy
Ratings: Yelp - 4.5 Stars Trip Advisor - 4 Stars
Filetti di Baccalà is one of those hard-to-find restaurants but is definitely worth the exploration. Their menu is filled with a variety of salads, vegetables, and wine. The restaurant's most famous dish, however, is their lightly battered salted codfish. At 5 euros (5.88 USD) a piece, you're guaranteed a fresh, piping hot, perfectly battered piece of cod.
Italian 101: Grazie - Thank You
Note: All prices are based on today's currency exchange rate.
Divin Ostilia
Via Ostilia, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Ratings: Yelp: 4 Stars Trip Advisor: 4.5 Stars
Pictured above is one of Italy's most famous dish, Porchetta. Porchetta is listed as traditional Italian food and is said to be Emperor Nero's favorite dish. The preparation of this celebratory dish hasn't changed since it's creation back in the Roman Empire, making this a very traditional dish. Divin Ostilia's friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and delicious food will leave you stuffed and ready to be rolled out of the restaurant.
Italian 101: Prego - You're welcome; by all means after you.
Second Stop: Florence! (Firenze)
Florence is home to many famous museums such as Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Accademia as well as some of the oldest and largest churches such as the Duomo and San Lorenzo Basilica. The food specialties here consisted of Trippa alla Fiorentina (tripe), bread, and of course the Florence T-bone steaks. Florence was the heart of the Italian Renaissance so make sure to do plenty of exploring to build up that appetite.
Trattoria Zà Za
Piazza del Mercato Centrale 26R, 50123 Firenze, Italy
Ratings: Yelp: 4 Stars Trip Advisor: 4 Stars
Located in the center of Florence, Trattoria Zà Zà is the place to go for a warm family environment that serves delicious food. Pictured above is their famous Florentine T-bone steak, cooked to perfection. While the steak is their most famous dish, it isn't their only specialty! Their Pappardelle pasta in wild boar sauce is drool-worthy and will leave you hungry for more.
Travel Tip: If you're hungry and hate long lines, lunchtime is your best bet! You can always make a reservation online as well!
Italian 101: Quanto viene? - How much does it come to?
Trattoria San Lorenzo
Via Borgo San Lorenzo 53R, 50123 Firenze, Italy
Ratings: Yelp: 4 Stars Trip Advisor: 4.5 Stars
The mushroom ravioli was one of my favorite meals during my stay in Florence. Not only was the staff friendly and welcoming, but the quiet, cozy, ambiance of the restaurant also made the meal even more enjoyable. The large open windows gave a clear view of one of the largest churches in Florence, San Lorenzo Basilica. These seats do go quick so if you want a meal with a view, you'll have to make a reservation. The restaurant's ample wine list and cozy atmosphere made the place date night-perfect.
Italian 101: Scusi, dov’è il bagno? Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
Final Stop: Venice
Venice was personally my favorite city out of the three. It is made up of 118 tiny islands, most of which are connected by bridges and canals. In the city of water, the seafood is always fresh and delicious! If you get the chance to visit, make sure to tour the maze-like canals on a gondola.
Acqua & Mais
Campiello dei Meloni, 1411-1412, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Ratings: Yelp: 4.5 Stars Trip Advisor: 4.5 Stars
Although their long line might be a turn-off, I strongly suggest you persevere and wait, especially if you love fried seafood and polenta. Their shrimps and squids are fried to perfection and the polenta is packed with flavor. Each bite is like fireworks going off in your mouth. Acqua e Mais is one of those places that will have you coming back for seconds (I know I did!). Oh, did I mention that all their menu items are under 10 euros (11.77 USD)?
Italian 101: Ci fa il conto, per favore?/Ci porta il conto? - Will you bring us the bill, please?
Please note that all prices are based on today's currency exchange rate.
Trattoria alla Madonna
Calle della Madonna, 594, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Ratings: Yelp: 3.5 Stars Trip Advisor: 3.5 Stars
Tucked away in a secluded part of Venice, finding this restaurant won't be easy, but it's definitely worth the hunt. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, which include their squid ink pasta pictured above. Trattoria alla Madonna is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Italian 101: Arrivederci - Until we see each other again
Ready to make your way to Italy?
Book a ticket now and treat yourself to a fun, Italian food-filled journey. Who knows? Maybe you'll find your pop-star twin.