Italy’s allure lies not just in its iconic cities, but in the charming landscapes and hidden gems between them. Opting for a road trip rather than flying allows you to uncover these treasures, savouring the journey as much as the destinations. Our adventure from Rome to Florence revealed an Italy that’s both familiar and wonderfully surprising, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, relaxation, and gastronomy.
The Eternal City
Our Italian journey began in Rome, where we picked up our stylish Alfa Romeo from the airport. This proved to be a smart choice, offering us flexibility throughout our trip and the chance to travel in true Italian style. The sleek lines and responsive handling of the Alfa Romeo added an extra layer of enjoyment to our drive through Italy’s diverse landscapes.
Rome’s charms unfolded as we explored on e-bikes, a fun and efficient way to navigate the city’s bustling streets and ancient alleyways. An early morning ride took us to the Trevi Fountain at 6am, already bustling with visitors. The soft morning light cast a magical glow on the baroque masterpiece, creating a moment of tranquillity before the day’s crowds arrived. From there, we pedalled to the iconic Colosseum, its ancient grandeur a testament to Rome’s rich history. Standing before this colossal amphitheatre, we couldn’t help but imagine the roar of the crowds and the spectacles that once took place within its walls.
No visit to Rome is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. We savoured the best carbonara of our lives at Cucina Italiana, prepared by the ‘King of Carbonara’, chef Luciano Monosilio. The perfectly al dente pasta, creamy sauce, and crispy guanciale created a harmonious blend of flavours that left us craving more. Between sightseeing, we fuelled up with cappuccinos and gelatos, with a standout yoghurt-flavoured gelato from Elisa that was both refreshing
and indulgent.
Our Roman adventure concluded with a sunrise e-bike ride to Monte Mario, Rome’s highest hill. The challenging climb was rewarded with breathtaking views of the city bathed in the warm glow of dawn. As we gazed upon the sea of terracotta roofs and iconic domes, we felt a deep appreciation for the layers of history and culture that make Rome so captivating.
Tuscan Treasures
Leaving Rome, we drove north to Terme di Saturnia, a popular hot spring in the heart of Tuscany. Despite the crowds, we found a secluded spot to relax and soak in the thermal waters. The cascading pools of milky blue water, rich in minerals, provided a soothing respite from our travels. The surrounding Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills and cypress trees, created a picturesque backdrop for our aquatic relaxation.
Our Tuscan experience continued at the Dievole Wine Resort, an idyllic retreat that felt like stepping into an Italian movie. Nestled among vineyards and olive groves, this centuries-old estate offered a perfect blend of luxury and rustic charm. Here, we indulged in relaxation and plenty of wine tasting, sampling the region’s renowned Chianti Classico and learning about the art of winemaking from passionate sommeliers.
Inspired by our hot spring experience, we sought out the less-known Bagni San Filippo. A short hike through a lush forest led us to this hidden gem, where we enjoyed moments of solitude in a stunning natural setting. The ethereal white calcium formations, sculpted by the thermal waters over millennia, created an otherworldly landscape that felt far removed from the tourist trail.
Next, we explored the charming town of Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Renaissance architecture. This small but beautiful city captivated us with its quaint streets, aromatic coffees, and delicious local cheeses. We wandered through the perfectly preserved piazzas, admiring the harmonious design envisioned by Pope Pius II in the 15th century. The panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia from the city walls left us speechless, offering a quintessential Tuscan vista of gentle hills, cypress-lined roads, and distant medieval towns.
A living museum
Our road trip culminated in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and a living museum of art and architecture. We kicked off our visit with coffee at the historic Caffe Concerto Paszkowski, a Florentine institution for over 120 years. Sitting at the marble-topped tables, surrounded by gilded mirrors and ornate decor, we felt transported to a bygone era of intellectual discourse and artistic ferment.
A highlight of our Florentine sojourn was seeing Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery. Standing before this colossal marble masterpiece, its intricate details left us in awe. The sculpture’s perfect proportions and lifelike expression are a testament to Michelangelo’s unparalleled skill and vision. We spent hours exploring the gallery’s other treasures, including unfinished works by Michelangelo that offer fascinating insights into his creative process.
We concluded our Florentine experience with a culinary must: a massive 1.6kg Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a fitting end to our Italian journey. This Tuscan speciality, a thick T-bone steak cooked over hot coals, embodied the region’s commitment to simple yet exquisite cuisine. Paired with local wine and enjoyed in a cosy trattoria, it was a meal that celebrated the essence of Italian hospitality and gastronomic tradition.
From the bustling streets of Rome to the serene Tuscan countryside and the artistic wonders of Florence, Italy revealed its diverse charms at every turn. This road trip offered us the freedom to explore at our own pace, uncovering hidden gems and experiencing the authentic Italy that lies beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking beautiful landscapes, this Italian itinerary promises an adventure that will leave you yearning to return to the Bel Paese.
