Flight to Milan: The Journey Begins!

Day 1: Monday - GRR-EWR-MXP

The day is finally here! After months of planning, the adventure from the heart of Michigan to the fashion capital of Italy is officially underway. It's Day 1 of the trip, and it's all about smooth transitions and watching the miles melt away.

Morning: Farewell

Today started in our city, the home base. There’s always a bittersweet feeling when leaving, but the excitement for what lies ahead quickly takes over!

• Home Sweet Home - Mom's Place: A quick stop at Mom’s is essential, of course! A final hug, a promise to call immediately upon landing, and perhaps one last home-brunch. It’s the perfect way to anchor the start of a long journey with love and goodbyes.

• Mom's Place - Airport: The car ride to the Airport is always a flurry of checking and re-checking the passport, ticket, and making sure the international plugs are actually in the carry-on. No turning back now!

Afternoon/Evening: The First Leg

Breeze through security and get ready for the first flight!

• GRR (Grand Rapids, Michigan): The first hop is always the easiest—a short flight connecting us to the major international hub. This leg is all about settling in, grabbing a window seat if possible, and maybe reviewing the Milan itinerary one last time.

Night: The Transatlantic Leap

The connection at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the critical pivot point of the journey. It's often a late-night affair, grabbing a quick bite and finding the gate for the long haul.

• EWR - MXP (Milan Malpensa, Italy): This is it—the transatlantic flight! Seven or eight hours over the ocean, chasing the sunrise. We'll be crossing several time zones and arrive in Italy on Tuesday morning, ready to kick off the European exploration.

Our flight from New Jersey to Milan was perfectly on time and truly wonderful. Shortly after takeoff, we were treated to a great multi-course meal starting with a lovely appetizer. Since I had some pressing deadlines, I stayed awake to work, and I was impressed by the top-notch in-flight Wi-Fi provided through our subscriber. It was a lifesaver!

I managed to close my eyes for a moment afterward, but I spent most of the flight checking my phone to stay on top of work. Despite the busy schedule, the flight was smooth, and the cabin crew was incredibly attentive. I made sure to stock up on bottled water to keep both my husband and myself hydrated—a crucial part of my marathon training prep as I lock in my nutrition and hydration seven days out from the race.

Day 3: Wednesday - A day in Tuscany

We were up early this morning! Our tour starts at 8:00 AM, but since we slept in just a little, we decided to skip the hotel breakfast. Instead, we grabbed a quick espresso and a cornetto before meeting our guide. I made sure to snag a few granola bars and a bottle of water for my purse to keep us fueled for the long day ahead. We know lunch is included, but I always like to be prepared! We are so ready for our Tuscany Day Tour! 

Here are Tuscany Day Trip Highlights:

The Grand Tuscany Circuit: A Journey from Siena to the Sea

Our day was a perfectly paced exploration of Italy's most storied landscapes, beginning with medieval grandeur and ending with architectural wonders.

• Siena’s Morning Charm: We started our adventure in the golden-hued city of Siena. Our guided walk through the winding contrade led us to the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo—home of the legendary Palio horse race—and the breathtaking Siena Cathedral, where we marveled at the intricate Gothic details before the afternoon crowds arrived. 

• A Rustic Winery Lunch: As the sun climbed, we retreated to a family-run winery in the heart of Chianti. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and olive groves, we enjoyed a traditional farmhouse feast. From local cured meats and bruschetta to handmade pasta paired with a tasting of regional wines, it was the ultimate taste of the Tuscan countryside.

• The Towers of San Gimignano: Next, we explored the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages." We spent our afternoon wandering through the ancient stone streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring its skyline of medieval towers and grabbing a cup of coffee and pastries here while the world-famous gelato in the charming Piazza della Cisterna was closed for that day. Darn and we missed it! Hahaha

• The Grand Finale in Pisa: We concluded our journey in the legendary Piazza dei Miracoli. Standing before the Leaning Tower and the stunning white marble Duomo, we took in one of the most iconic sights in the world as the day’s light began to soften—a spectacular end to an unforgettable trip. Before we head back to our bus we finally tracked down some authentic gelato! There’s actually a trick to spotting the real stuff in Italy, so you have to be careful not to get the fake version. Interestingly, the girl serving us was Filipino—I’ve actually run into quite a few Filipinos on this trip, which has been so wonderful to see! 

Note: Taking the best picture with the leaning tower is involve hard work. 😂

Beyond the Lens: A Soulful Journey Through Tuscany

From the historic squares of Siena to the final, iconic views in Pisa, this day tour journey captured the true soul of Tuscany—its history, its flavors, and its timeless beauty. But for us, the experience was defined by more than just the scenery; it was defined by our guide, Alex and his company! It wasn't just him. We had Sergio as our bus driver and another guide specific for Siena.

Alex is a wealth of knowledge, sharing insights far beyond anything we could have imagined. We realized quickly that if you are just wandering these streets alone, you miss so many vital pieces of the story. Alex provided specific, unique details that you simply cannot find on the internet. To truly understand these places, you have to dig deep, and there is no substitute for a person standing right there with you, telling you a story that brings the stones to life.

We never had a moment of boredom. My husband and I were so grateful to embrace every minute of the day. Without a guide like Alex, it’s easy to fall into the trap of just taking pictures to prove you were there. But a photo doesn't do justice to the history; it can't tell you why a place matters.

While we may not remember every single date or name, the feeling of the day is etched in our hearts. We are forever grateful that we chose to be learners instead of just tourists. Because we took the time to process the history, we could actually envision ourselves as part of it. That connection made all the difference, making our time in Tuscany a truly profound experience.

Alex really transformed our trip from a simple sightseeing tour into a deep, emotional connection with Italy's past. 

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped for a fine Italian dinner—yet another opportunity to sample unique, authentic flavors. We truly can’t say it enough: there is nothing quite like a real Italian lasagna paired with a glass of local wine. It was the perfect, satisfying conclusion to our day. Now, it's time for another good night's rest so we’re ready for our next tour tomorrow!

Day 4: Thursday - The Five Lands or Cinque Terre

We were up with the birds again this morning for a day marathon tour of the "Five Lands" in Cinque Terre. Since we had such a head start to beat the crowds, we had to skip a formal breakfast.

We actually ducked into a McDonald's before we meet our guide just to see if we could find something quick and familiar, but we walked right back out! It was nothing like the American version; the menu was totally unfamiliar. So, we stuck to the local tradition: a Cornetto. I think "Cornetto every day" has officially become our tour motto! Luckily, Italy has about a million flavored options, so I’m not bored yet.

As for the coffee? I played it safe and stuck to water. I’m a bit of a "pain in the butt" with my coffee—I need soy or almond milk and a lot of diluting, otherwise, pure espresso just gives me the shakes. I figured the Italian baristas would think I was crazy if I asked for my specific dairy-free latte, so I skipped the caffeine to keep my stomach happy. Instead, I dropped some Nuun electrolytes into my water bottle. My body definitely thanked me once we started climbing!

Coastal Cliffs & Pastel Villages: Our Dream Day Hiking the Cinque Terre 

Our Guide: The Wonderful Joan

Before we even reached the coast, we knew we were in good hands. Our guide, Joan, was absolutely incredible. Having a guide like Joan made the logistical puzzle of trains and trails feel effortless. She shared so much history and pointed out hidden details we never would have noticed on our own. She kept our energy high and made sure we were always in the right place at the right time to see the best views.

1. Manarola: Views and Fuel

Our first stop was Manarola, and it felt like walking into a painting. We spent our time wandering the narrow carruggi (alleys) and heading to the famous viewpoint across the harbor.

Before we started the most physically demanding part of the day, we stopped for lunch right here in Manarola. We knew we needed the energy, so we fueled up on some local specialties while overlooking the sea. There’s nothing quite like eating fresh pasta while staring at those iconic pastel houses stacked on the cliffs. It was the perfect "calm before the stairs!"

2. The Main Event: Hiking to Vernazza

With lunch finished and my Nuun electrolytes ready to go, we tackled the "Main Event": a guided hike along the Sentiero Azzurro (the Blue Path). You can choose whether you hike or take the train so we can meet up in the other side of town village. My hubby choose to take the train and I did the hike.

This hike took us from the hills above the coast all the way into the next village. It wasn't just a walk; it was a workout! We climbed steep stone stairs and wound through ancient terraced vineyards where local farmers still harvest grapes by hand. Reaching the summit and looking down at the coastline stretching toward the horizon was breathtaking—and then, finally, we saw it: Vernazza appearing below us like a hidden gem. Beatiful and you can't miss it!!

3. Vernazza: The Reward

Ending the hike by descending into Vernazza was the best feeling. This village feels the most "regal," with its fortified tower and bustling harbor. We explored the charming square and watched the green-and-white fishing boats bobbing in the surf. After that hike, sitting by the water felt like pure luxury and savoring the most delicious gelato in town.

4. The Cinque Terre Express & Il Gigante

To see the rest of the coast, we hopped on the Cinque Terre Express. It’s a dedicated train line that tunnels directly through the cliffs. The efficiency is wild—one minute you’re in the darkness of a tunnel, and the next, you pop out into a sun-drenched station overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean.

We ended our village-hopping in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the towns. Beyond the sprawling sandy beaches, we walked up to see the famous Il Gigante. This massive statue of the Roman God of the Sea is carved right into the rock, and seeing it in person is such a powerful experience.

5. A Magical Finale at Salita Castello, Roimaggiore

As the day began to fade, we took one last short train ride to catch the sunset at Salita Castello. "Magical" doesn't even begin to describe it. I couldn't stop taking pictures and videos; the light hitting the water was so perfect I didn't want to leave. Witnessing the beauty of God’s creation in a place like this felt so real and profound. 

6. A Salty Snack and the Road Home

Before we hopped on our very last train, we knew we couldn’t leave without a true taste of the coast. We grabbed a cone of the local fried seafood, and wow—it was incredible! Crispy, fresh, and salty, it was the absolute perfect way to end our time in the villages. 

Once we reached the city of La Spezia, our amazing guide Joan didn't stop the adventure there. She gave us a wonderful mini-tour of the city, sharing its history as we walked toward our bus. It was the perfect wind-down before the drive back to Florence. It was a perfect day!

Final Thoughts: A Dream Come True

Stepping onto the soil of Cinque Terre was a literal dream come true—honestly, it was the loveliest day of my life! Even though we were exhausted by the time we headed back to Florence, my heart was so full.

Italy, you’ve captured my heart. Between the Cornetto breakfasts, the challenging hikes, and the expert guidance from Joan, it was a logistical masterpiece. I’m already starting a new bucket list because I know I’ll be back to stay in these pastel villages for much longer next time! I may need Joan to be my best friend! :)

Day 5: Friday - Reading the Walls: Why an Expert Guide is the Only Way to See Florence

You can buy a guidebook, download an app, or follow a map, but Florence doesn’t reveal her secrets that easily. On our recent walking tour—a route that took us from the Uffizi to the Accademia—we realized that the "real" Florence is written in a secret code on the walls of the city. Without our guide to translate, we would have been walking past masterpieces without even knowing it.

The Power of the Uffizi (From the Outside In)

Our journey began outside the Uffizi Gallery. Most people only think about what’s inside, but our guide had us look up at the architecture itself. Designed by Giorgio Vasari, the Uffizi (which literally translates to "Offices") was built as a giant "U-shape" to show off the Medici family's total control.

Standing in the long courtyard, our guide pointed out the niches filled with statues of great Florentine men. She explained how the building was designed to connect the seat of government to the Medici palace via a secret overhead corridor. Seeing the Uffizi from the outside first gave us the political context we needed—it wasn't just an art gallery; it was a fortress of power.

Entering the "Open-Air Gallery": Piazza della Signoria

As we moved from the Uffizi into the Piazza della Signoria, the scale of the city’s history really hit us. Our guide explained that if the Duomo is the soul of Florence, this piazza is its heart.

• The Palazzo Vecchio: We stood before the fortress-like town hall, where our guide pointed out the various coats of arms painted under the arches, each representing a different phase of the Florentine Republic.

• The "Boredom" Carving: Tucked behind a statue on the Palazzo Vecchio wall, our guide showed us a tiny face carved into the stone. She told us the funny legend that Michelangelo did it out of boredom while a local man wouldn't stop talking to him!

• The Loggia dei Lanzi: This wide-arched gallery on the edge of the square is home to incredible statues like Perseus with the Head of Medusa. Without a guide, it’s just a beautiful porch; with her, it became a story of political warnings and artistic rivalry.

• The Neptune Fountain: We learned the local nicknames for the giant marble fountain and the drama surrounding its creation.

• Statue of Cosimo I: Our guide had us look closely at this bronze giant by Giambologna. She explained that the "walking" pose of the horse was a massive technical risk at the time because of the weight, and she pointed out the three bronze panels on the base that literally "map out" how Cosimo rose to power.

• Hercules and Cacus: Right by the palace doors, our guide showed us this massive duo. While it looks like just a struggle, she told us it was actually a political "muscle flex" by the Medici to warn their enemies that they had the strength of demigods.

• The Savonarola Plaque: We almost walked right over a circular bronze plaque in the pavement, but our guide stopped us to explain it marks the exact spot of the infamous 'Bonfire of the Vanities' executions.

A Masterclass in the "Hidden" City

Leaving the grand piazzas behind, we dove into the narrow, medieval veins of the city. This is where having a guide became truly essential. She pointed out "minor" details that carry the weight of centuries:

• The Iron Hooks & Rings: We saw heavy iron hardware bolted into the stone palazzos. These were the "parking spots" and utility kits of the Renaissance—used for tethering horses, bracing massive torches, or hanging the heavy banners that once filled the streets with color.

• The Hand Door Knockers: She showed us the distinctive hand-shaped knockers, explaining how they served as symbols of protection and specific social status for the families living within.

• The Flags and Brackets: We learned to spot the flag-holders on building corners, which tell the story of the city’s fierce neighborhood pride and the historic processions that still march these streets today.

The Reveal: The Duomo, Campanile, and Baptistery

The highlight of the walk was the "approach." Our guide didn't just walk us to the Piazza del Duomo; she led us through specific narrow passages so that the Cathedral would appear suddenly, in all its green, white, and pink marble glory.

• The Duomo: She broke down the "impossible" engineering of the dome, explaining how the city risked everything on a design they weren't even sure could be built.

• Giotto’s Campanile: We looked closely at the Bell Tower, learning how its geometry was designed to create a sense of perfect harmony. It wasn't just a tower; it was a vertical declaration of Florence's wealth.

• The Baptistery: Standing before the Gates of Paradise, our guide decoded the bronze panels, explaining why this octagonal building remained the spiritual heart of Florence for a thousand years.

The Grand Finale: Meeting the "Recycled" Giant

The ultimate payoff was the Galleria dell'Accademia. Because we had a guide, we skipped the hours-long line and headed straight for the "Hall of Prisoners." Here, our guide shared the most incredible story: David was actually a "recycled" masterpiece.

She told us how the massive block of marble had been abandoned for 25 years because other artists thought it was too flawed and narrow. Michelangelo, only 26 years old at the time, saw the figure trapped inside and promised he could set it free.

As we stood under the rotunda, she pointed out things we never would have noticed on our own:

• The Psychological Moment: Unlike other statues of David, this one doesn't show the fight with Goliath. Our guide had us look at his brow—he is caught in the moment of deciding to fight. It’s a masterpiece of mental tension.

• The "Imperfect" Proportions: She explained that David’s right hand and head are actually oversized. Why? Because he was originally meant to stand high up on the roof of the Duomo! Michelangelo skewed the proportions so he would look perfect from the ground.

• The Battle Scars: She even pointed out where his arm had been shattered by a chair thrown out of a window during a riot in 1527, and how it was later meticulously repaired.

The Verdict: Don't Just Walk—Observe

If we had done this on our own, we would have seen some pretty buildings and a big statue. Instead, our guide gave us the "eyes" to see how the city works. From the exterior of the Uffizi to the hidden hooks on the walls and the "giant" secret of the Accademia, every stone has a story. You just need someone to tell it to you.

A Hidden Culinary Gem

After wandering through the city streets, we stumbled upon a local spot for dinner that felt like a true escape from the tourist path: Osteria San Fiorenzo.

Located just a stone's throw from the Bargello, this place was everything we wanted in a Tuscan meal. The atmosphere was cozy and authentic, and the food—from the hand-rolled pasta to the rich local wines—was spectacular. It was the perfect place to sit back, rest our feet, and recap everything we’d seen that morning.

Christmas Magic at Piazza Santa Croce

To cap off the night, we walked over to the Christmas Market (the Weihnachtsmarkt) in Piazza Santa Croce. Even if you aren't looking to shop, the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine in the air against the backdrop of the Franciscan Basilica is incredible.

We couldn't resist a little holiday shopping, though! We ended up finding some beautiful, handcrafted jewelry and a few soft Italian scarves to take home as souvenirs. There’s something special about buying a gift in a wooden hut under the Tuscan stars.

Florence, you have our hearts (and clearly, our wallets)!

Quick Tips for Day 5:

• Book Ahead: The Skip-the-Line Entry for the Accademia is a total lifesaver.

• Dinner Reservations: If you're eyeing Osteria San Fiorenzo, try to book a table in advance as it fills up with locals quickly!

Day 6: Expo Vibes and Pre-Marathon Zen

With the big race just 24 hours away, today was all about finding the balance between "official business" and saving my legs.

The Expo Energy

We started the morning with a walk from our hotel to the Stazione Leopolda for the Firenze Marathon Expo. There’s nothing quite like the energy of an expo—picking up my bib and seeing thousands of other runners from around the world really made the reality of the marathon sink in! We spent about half the day there, browsing the gear and soaking in the pre-race atmosphere.

A Riverside Lunch at Cammillo

For lunch, we had a highly anticipated reservation at Trattoria Cammillo. In Florence, these authentic spots fill up incredibly fast, so having a booking was essential. It was the perfect place to carb-load with some world-class pasta in a setting that felt like stepping back in time.

After lunch, we took a slow stroll across the nearby Ponte Santa Trinita, snapping a few photos of the iconic Ponte Vecchio without the stress of a ticking clock. We kept it low-key, wandering through quiet side streets at our own leisure—exactly what I needed to keep my heart rate down.

Sandwiches, Street Music, and Snacks

On the walk back toward the hotel, we stopped to grab a sandwich from one of Florence's famous spots (likely the legendary All'Antico Vinaio or I' Girone De' Ghiotti). We took a moment to just sit, rest our legs, and listen to a local street musician—one of those spontaneous "Italy moments" you can't plan.

We ducked into a convenience store on one of the busier streets to stock up on snacks for later, then made tracks for the hotel.

The Ultimate Recovery

The evening was dedicated to total relaxation. After eating our sandwiches at the hotel, we headed down to the iQ Hotel Firenze spa. Spending 30 minutes in the heat and water was heaven for my muscles. I finished the night with some light yoga stretching to keep everything loose, and now, it’s early to bed.

Tomorrow is the big day. See you at the Start Line!

Reflecting on the Day:

• The "Must-Do": If you want a table at Trattoria Cammillo, remember they usually have specific "windows" for reservations—don't wait until the last minute!

• The Prep: Utilizing the hotel spa and yoga was a game-changer for my pre-race nerves.

Day 7: 26.2 Miles Through Living History

The day finally arrived: The Firenze Marathon. After months of training, it was time to put my legs to the test in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The Early Start

We woke up before the sun to grab breakfast at the iQ Hotel Firenze. To be honest, nothing looks particularly "appetizing" at 5:00 AM when your stomach is full of pre-race jitters, but I managed to get the right fuel in. From there, it was a short, crisp walk to the Piazza del Duomo, where the start line sat under the shadow of the massive cathedral.

The Route: Cobblestones & Culture

Running through Florence is like running through an open-air museum. The route is impressively flat, which is great for the pace, but you have to keep your eyes on the cobblestones!

• The Sights: We passed world-class architectures, towering sculptures, and iconic statues at every turn.

• The Vibe: The ambiance was spectacular. The cheers of the crowd echoing off the narrow stone streets gave me that extra boost whenever I felt my energy flagging.

A Word to the Wise: The Logistics

If you’re planning to run this race in the future, here is my "real talk" tip: The porta-potty situation is a challenge. With only about one per station for thousands of runners, the lines were impossible. Let’s just say I saw more than a few fellow runners taking "scenic detours" into the bushes!

The Finish Line Dash

By the time I crossed the finish line, my bladder was ready to explode. While many runners stayed to enjoy the after-party, I had to make a tactical decision: The Hotel Dash. I traded the post-race festivities for the comfort of my own bathroom and a place to finally sit down.

I have zero regrets about skipping the party. Being able to relax and recover at the hotel before heading out for a celebratory dinner was the perfect end to an exhausting, exhilarating day. I came, I saw, I conquered Florence!

Race Day Stats:

• Start/Finish: Piazza del Duomo

• Course Highlight: Running past the Equestrian Monument in Piazza della Signoria.

• Pro-Tip: Empty your bladder completely before you leave the hotel! If that even possible!

The Victory Lap: A Quiet Night in Florence

After a much-needed rest, spa and a hot shower at the hotel, we ventured back out into the Florentine night. My legs were heavy, but a "shake-out stroll" was exactly what the doctor ordered to keep from seizing up after those 26.2 miles.

A Celebration of Flavor at Taverna Dei Servi We headed to Taverna Dei Servi for our celebratory dinner. This place is the definition of an authentic Florentine tavern—warm, rustic, and incredibly welcoming. After a day of push-pulling my physical limits, sitting down to their traditional Tuscan dishes was pure bliss. It was the perfect atmosphere to toast to the finish line and finally relax.

The Duomo After Dark The highlight of the night was walking toward the Piazza del Duomo. While the area is a beehive of activity during the day, late at night it turns into a quiet, sacred-feeling space. With most of the crowds tucked away, we had the square almost to ourselves. We took our time capturing photos and videos of the cathedral's intricate marble facade—it felt like a private viewing of a masterpiece.

Christmas Lights and Window Shopping On the way back, we wandered through the quieter side streets, enjoying the twinkling Christmas lights that draped across the alleys. We made a few quick pivots to check out store windows and soaked in the festive atmosphere one last time before heading back to the iQ Hotel Firenze for a deep, well-earned sleep.

Florence, you were the perfect host for my marathon journey. Tomorrow, we trade the Renaissance for the Eternal City: Rome!

Reflections on the Finish:

• The Highlight: Seeing the Duomo without the crowds. It’s the best reward for a long day.

• Movement is Medicine: Even if you’re sore, that light evening walk makes a huge difference for recovery the next day.

Day 8: From the Duomo to the Eternal City: A Rainy Roman Welcome

Leaving the charming streets of Florence behind is never easy, but when the next stop is Rome, the excitement quickly takes over. Our transition from the Renaissance hub to the heart of the Eternal City was a whirlwind of high-speed trains, rainy reunions, and the unmistakable magic of Rome at night.

Leaving Florence Behind

We checked out of iQ Hotel Firenze right around 11:00 AM, enjoying one last walk through the city to the Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. By 12:30 PM, we were settled onto the train. There is something so relaxing about the Italian rail system—watching the Tuscan landscape blur into the distance while recharging for the next leg of the journey.

Just under two hours and 160 miles later, we pulled into Rome. A quick walk brought us to our home base for the stay, iQ Hotel Roma, located on Via Firenze. After a smooth check-in and a moment to drop our bags, we were ready to hit the pavement.

A Special Reunion

The highlight of our afternoon wasn't a monument, but a person. I had the chance to meet up with a dear friend who works at a church near the local Starbucks. We grabbed a seat, sat down for a while, and just chatted, catching up on life while the Roman bustle whirred around us.

She then gave us a truly unique "behind the scenes" look at her daily life, showing us where she works cooking meals for the priests. It was such a grounded, authentic glimpse into a side of Rome most tourists never see.

Rome After Dark: Rain and Reflections

By the time we headed back out to explore, the sun had set and a light rain had begun to fall. While the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps were still bustling with people, the rain actually worked in our favor—it was busy, but nowhere near the suffocating crowds you usually find during a dry December evening. The wet cobblestones reflected the city lights, making the Trevi look even more ethereal than usual.

Dinner at Sora Lucia

After wandering through the rain, we started making our way back toward the hotel via the backstreets. We stumbled upon Sora Lucia on Via Rasella and decided it was the perfect spot to dry off and refuel. There’s nothing quite like a warm, authentic Roman dinner to cap off a day of travel.

The walk back included a few practical "travel life" stops—a quick visit to a pharmacy and a brief detour into a little Irish sports bar (mainly so I could use the restroom!).

Finally, we made it back to the hotel just after 9:00 PM. Falling into bed at iQ Hotel Roma, we could hear the city outside, knowing we had a full day of Roman adventures waiting for us tomorrow.

Travel Tip: Don't let a little rain ruin your Rome itinerary! It thins out the crowds at the major landmarks and makes the "Street of the Old City" feel incredibly romantic.