Italy: A Journey Through History, Flavor, and Faith
Looking Back at My Italy Tour and an Amazing Visit to the Eternal City - Rome
Few places in the world captivate the senses quite like Italy. From ancient ruins and sun-drenched coastlines to divine cuisine and spiritual wonders, every corner of this country tells a story that’s been centuries in the making. On my recent trip, I explored the best of both city and seaside - wandering through Rome’s timeless landmarks, taking part in a once-in-a-lifetime Jubilee Year pilgrimage, cooking with locals, and soaking in the beauty of the Ligurian coast.
There’s truly no other city like Rome. Around every corner lies a monument or piazza that has shaped centuries of art, architecture, and culture. The Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Vatican City - each one more awe-inspiring than the last.
We spent our first days exploring the city’s historic heart, beginning with a tour of the Colosseum that brought to life the gladiators, emperors, and spectators who once filled its ancient stands. Between stops at the Trevi Fountain (of course, I tossed a coin for good luck!) and the Spanish Steps, you can quickly realize there’s simply too much to experience in Rome in just a couple of days. You could return again and again and still discover something new.
One of the most meaningful parts of our journey was taking part in the Jubilee Year & Holy Door Pilgrimage - an event that happens only once every 25 years. During this sacred year, pilgrims from around the world travel to Rome to walk through the Holy Doors of the city’s four major basilicas: St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major.
With the help of our incredible partners at Access Italy, we spent a full day visiting each church and passing through its Holy Door. According to tradition, walking through all four symbolizes a journey of renewal and forgiveness, washing away one’s sins and inviting spiritual rebirth through receiving a plenary indulgence. Whether you’re deeply religious or simply open to the experience, there’s something profoundly moving about joining millions of people who have made this same pilgrimage for centuries.
It’s no secret that Italy is made for food lovers. Between bowls of fresh pasta and cones of creamy gelato, I don’t think I had a single meal that wasn’t delicious. Our curated restaurant recommendations at Rising Tide Travel will lead you to some incredible local spots - places you might easily walk past if you didn’t know better.
We loved our culinary experiences so much that we took two cooking classes, each one offering something new to savor. Under the guidance of local chefs, we made handmade ravioli, linguini with amatriciana sauce, and the most decadent tiramisu. And of course, no Italian meal is complete without a glass of wine and a sip of limoncello. It was the perfect way to connect with the culture through its most beloved tradition - food.
After days spent wandering Rome’s bustling streets, we boarded a train north to the coast for a slower, scenic escape. Portovenere, just south of Cinque Terre, felt like a hidden gem compared to its famous neighboring villages. The colorful harbor, dramatic cliffs, and sparkling sea made it the perfect base for exploring the region.
We hiked between the coastal villages, each one perched above the water with its own personality and charm and watched countless sunsets that painted the sky in shades of pink and gold. The journey ended in Genova, the birthplace of pesto and where we, of course, indulged in the original dish before saying goodbye to Italy.
Tips for Traveling in Italy
Don’t try to see it all at once. Italy is meant to be savored, not rushed. Plan to return multiple times. There’s simply too much beauty, history, and flavor for just one trip.
Book key tours and experiences early. Popular attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Learn a few Italian phrases. Even a simple “buongiorno” or “grazie” goes a long way with locals.
Work with a trusted travel advisor. Partnering with Rising Tide Travel ensures you’ll have insider recommendations, seamless logistics, and experiences that go far beyond what most travelers find on their own.
From ancient ruins to coastal sunsets, Italy left me completely enchanted. Whether you’re visiting for the food, the history, the faith, or the views, this is a country that stays with you long after you’ve returned home and always calls you back for more.
