Collaborator: Sandra F.
Month of travel: August 2025
Length: 2 weeks

Family Trip to Italy: From Majestic Cities to Hidden Gems

We are still filled with memories from our recent summer trip to Italy. My friends and family often ask, “Italy again?” Yes, indeed! How could we limit ourselves to just one trip to Italy? This country has so much to offer! This time, our journey took us from the bustling big cities to the tranquillity of hidden treasures.

First Stop: Venice and its Gondolas

Our adventure began in Venice, a city we were visiting for the first time. We chose to stay at the NH Venezia Laguna Palace, which offered excellent value for money. Its easy access to public transportation made getting around the city simple. Using a card payment system to enter and exit was an absolute pleasure.

While Venice was enjoyable, I didn’t instantly fall in love with it, nor did I feel a strong urge to return immediately. However, I completely understand why so many people are enchanted by this city. Its winding streets, canals, and unique atmosphere can indeed work their magic on visitors.

Milan: An Impressive City

A quick and comfortable high-speed train ride took us to Milan next. We stayed at INNSiDE by Meliá Milano Torre GalFa, a clean and comfortable hotel with charming staff, conveniently located near the central station. The famous Duomo left us speechless; it truly is a breathtaking sight. For a little break from Italian cuisine, I stopped at Mason Famous Lobster Roll House—a delicious surprise that I highly recommend if you're looking for something different!

Turin: A Blend of Soccer and Formula 1

Italy is also a country of passion! For sports fans, visiting the Allianz Stadium in Turin, home of Juventus, is an experience not to be missed. Even though I'm not a big soccer fan, I was almost overwhelmed with emotion in the trophy room! A little further on, visiting the Ferrari Museum in Maranello had me dreaming about my next car—though my husband said no (but I’m not giving up hope).

Hidden Treasures, Quiet Beaches, and Family Activities

After Milan, we joined other family members in the peaceful village of Santi Cosma e Damiano, situated between Rome and Naples. This is where we discovered our absolute favourites. Beyond the crowds of Sorrento, we explored lesser-known but equally beautiful spots such as Gaeta and Sperlonga (cover image). The beaches in these areas are sandy and much quieter. I particularly recommend Scauri Beach and Lido La Siesta, where my in-laws have been visiting for over 70 years! It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day.

For families seeking adventure, Wood Park in Gaeta offers tree-to-tree courses and zip lines, making it ideal for children. We also visited Tirreno Karting in Ausonia for a quick race—an excellent way to motivate kids to join their parents on more cultural excursions!

This trip allowed us to experience a side of Italy that is often overlooked in most travel guides. While the grand landmarks of the big cities were impressive, the true magic unfolded as we ventured off the main path to the quiet coastal towns. This experience reinforced why Italy will never be a “one-time” trip; it's an endless source of shared moments and Bella Vita.

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Photo credits: Sandra Ferlatte, cover image: Getty Images.
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