Italy Review: Our Family Trip from Rome to Amalfi Coast

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A First-Timer’s Family Adventure

Planning our 10-day family trip to Italy was a dream come true, and I’m so excited to share our full experience in this Italy review. With just 10 days total, including travel days, I wanted to strike a balance between sightseeing iconic landmarks and soaking up some beach time. Since we were visiting in July and knew off hand that the heat was going to be intense, carving out time by the coast wasn’t just a luxury it was a must. From the cobblestone streets of Rome to the stunning views of Praiano, we experienced it all without the help of a travel agency. Whether you’re planning your first trip or simply love a good travel story, this one’s for you. Steal my exact itinerary and start planning your dream vacation to Italy!

Italy Review: Flying into Rome from NYC

We kicked off our Italian adventure with a direct flight with Delta from New York City to Rome, with just our carry-on luggage and personal bag, which was smooth and relatively quick. If you’re planning your first trip to Italy and prefer to skip the travel agency, this route is simple and convenient. Of course, you can tweak the itinerary to suit your own schedule and budget make it your own and enjoy the journey! Make sure you purchase your tickets in advance so they won’t be that expensive.

First stop: Rome – History & Hospitality

Our flight was 8 hours and 30 minutes, and we arrived in Rome the following day. Rome was our first official stop and we checked into our hotel, The Independent Hotel in Rome, a boutique-style hotel located near Roma Termini station a perfect hub for sightseeing. After a long flight, we wanted to get a bite to eat and the hotel recommended Diana’s place, next door a beautiful fusion of bistro and wine bar set in an elegant, cozy space. This place it’s a hidden gem, with a wine cellar offering over a thousand labels of wines and champagnes, and a menu that reimagines Mediterranean classics, it was the perfect welcome to Italy. The hotel has a rooftop, Terrazza Cielo and has an amazing view, day and night.

Day 2- Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s

Our days in Rome were packed with iconic attractions: The Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s- A must-see trio rich in history, art, and architecture. From Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling in the Sistine Chapel to the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, this experience is both spiritual and awe-inspiring. When visiting the Vatican, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect. Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees avoid sleeveless tops, tank tops, shorts, or mini skirts. Hats should be removed before entering the museums or St. Peter’s Basilica. Steer clear of see-through clothing or anything with offensive slogans or symbols.

Day 3- The Colosseum

The Colosseum was an absolute highlight, a step back in time at this iconic Roman amphitheater. Exploring its ancient arches and underground chambers brings history to life in an unforgettable way. Walking through centuries of history was surreal, and we felt so lucky to see these landmarks with our own eyes. If you’re not sure how to go about booking tours in Italy, we used Viator and Get your guide. We had a great experience and worth booking. everything was smooth, organized, and most importantly legit. No scams, just easy sightseeing and memorable experiences.

Our Last Night in Rome

On our last day, we couldn’t leave without visiting the iconic Trevi Fountain and wow. You see it in posts and pictures, but standing in front of it up close is truly an unforgettable experience. While the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona was unfortunately closed for restoration ahead of the Jubilee year, the Trevi Fountain did not disappoint. Just a heads-up: it gets extremely crowded, so be mindful of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets. We spent time exploring the surrounding area, strolling through charming streets, popping into local shops, and of course grabbing gelato for one last sweet taste of Rome.

Day 4- Fast Train to Naples and One-Day Exploration

After Rome, we hopped on Italo’s high-speed train to Naples, which only took about an hour. It was our first time using European trains, and we were impressed by how fast, safe, and clean it was. The train experience in Italy was surprisingly easy to navigate I never felt overwhelmed or worried about getting lost. Everything was well-marked, and the process felt smooth and stress-free, even for a first-timer. We stayed at the Royal Continental Hotel, which offered beautiful views of the Bay of Naples. We only had one full day in Naples, but we made the most of it walking, eating pizza (of course!), and enjoying the local vibes even shopping at the Galleria Umberto I. If you’re stopping in Naples, look up “one-day Naples itinerary for families” or “where to stay in Naples, Italy, for short trips.” We had hoped to visit Pompeii, but most tours required a minimum of 2 to 4 hours. Since we were heading to Praiano the next day, we decided not to overextend ourselves and opted to save it for another trip.

Day 5-8 Praiano – A Hidden Gem on the Amalfi Coast

Instead of taking the ferry from Naples, we chose a private cab directly to Praiano . As first-time travelers in Italy with carry-ons in tow, we didn’t want to risk getting lost navigating the ferry and bus system. The ride cost us around $200, and honestly it was worth every penny for the convenience. However, if you’re traveling on a budget, there are more affordable options like the ferry and local buses that can take you to the Amalfi Coast, including Positano and Praiano. We stayed at Hotel Villa Maria Pia, and honestly, It felt like we discovered a secret paradise. This place is tucked into the cliffs of the Praiano with breathtaking views, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast and want something less crowded than Positano, Praiano is the place to be. Please make sure you pack swim shoes, the beaches are FULL of rocks.

Day 9-10 Back to Rome and a Smooth Departure

Before heading home, on Day 9, we returned to Rome by train and stayed our final night at the Crown Plaza Hotel, a comfortable and centrally-located spot that made our departure easy. The next day, we flew back to the States tired but happy, and so full of memories.

Travel Tips for First-Timers

I planned the entire trip myself, aiming to create an itinerary that was both enjoyable and manageable, without packing in too much or feeling rushed. Since we were visiting in the summer, I wanted to make the most of it with a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxing beach time, all tailored to what we love. I relied on Google Maps, TikTok, and personal recommendations to craft a seamless, well-organized itinerary that I easily downloaded to my phone for quick access on the go. As for dining, although we had a few recommended spots on our list, we mostly went with the flow. We explored wherever we happened to be and chose places on the go, which allowed us to taste a little bit of everything from casual pizza joints to stunning restaurants with unforgettable views and delicious local dishes.

Here are a few pro tips for first-timers to Europe:

Pack light: We traveled with just carry-on luggage and personal bags, yes, we really did! Trust me, hauling large suitcases over cobblestone streets is not the vibe.
Skip the ferry if you’re unsure: If you’re not totally comfortable navigating public transportation in a new country, private transfers can be a total lifesaver. That said, public transport in Europe is generally safe, reliable, and surprisingly easy to use. It’s not as easy to get lost as you might think!
Stay flexible: Planning is key, but leave room for spontaneity and discovery.

Grab My Freebie: Europe Packing List for First-Time Travelers

Ready to plan your own Italian escape?
Save this itinerary for later, share it with a friend, or drop a comment below if you have any questions! And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more travel tips, packing guides, and destination inspiration because your next adventure starts here. Want to make your trip to Europe stress-free? I created a free downloadable Europe packing list that includes everything from travel-size essentials to clothing tips for multi-city adventures. It’s the exact list I used to pack for Italy!

Italy was magical, and planning it myself made the experience even more rewarding. I hope this Italy review gives you inspiration and practical tips for your own Italian getaway.