In August 2024, I had the chance to experience Italy for the first time. It’s a country known for its rich history, incredible architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. What made the trip even better was the sunny, pleasant weather that accompanied me throughout the journey. My exploration took me through Venice, Pisa, and Rome—each city offering its own unique charm.
Venice: Canals, Architecture, and Squid Ink Pasta
The first stop was Venice, a city unlike any other I’ve visited. As soon as I arrived, the distinctive layout of the city, with its intricate network of canals, captivated me. There’s something magical about seeing the reflection of centuries-old buildings shimmer on the water as gondolas glide past. The architecture itself is a mesmerizing blend of Gothic, Byzantine, and Renaissance influences, and it felt like stepping back in time as I wandered through the narrow streets and crossed countless bridges.
One of the most memorable experiences was trying black squid ink pasta for the first time. Its inky black appearance might look intimidating, but the taste was surprisingly delightful, with a rich, briny flavor. Being gluten-intolerant, I was initially cautious about consuming bread, but interestingly, I found the bread in Venice to be quite tolerable. This led me to wonder if the gluten levels in their wheat are lower than in other parts of Europe, or perhaps they use a higher quality grain. Whatever the reason, it made the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Pisa: The Leaning Tower and Beyond
After Venice, I made my way to Pisa, a city famous for its iconic Leaning Tower. Seeing it in person was nothing short of amazing. Photos simply don’t capture the odd beauty of this architectural wonder. The slight tilt of the tower gives it a surreal quality, and it was fascinating to learn about the centuries of work that went into stabilizing it.
But Pisa has more to offer than just the tower. The entire Piazza dei Miracoli, where the Leaning Tower is located, is a treasure trove of medieval architecture. The nearby Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery are equally impressive, with intricate details and a sense of grandeur that gives you a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship of the time. Though the Leaning Tower gets most of the attention, I found that Pisa’s quieter corners and narrow streets, where the pace of life seems slower, offered a serene contrast to the bustling tourist areas.
Rome: A History Enthusiast’s Dream
My final destination was Rome, and what an unforgettable experience that was. For anyone with a love of history and architecture, Rome is a dream. The sheer number of historical sites can be overwhelming. As I walked through the city, I was constantly surrounded by remnants of ancient civilizations—ruins, grand monuments, and ornate buildings, each telling its own story.
The Colosseum, of course, stands as one of the most iconic landmarks, but there’s so much more to explore. From the Roman Forum to the Pantheon, and the countless churches and fountains that seem to appear around every corner, it felt like every step was an encounter with the past. Despite its historical significance, Rome also has a lively, modern energy, with bustling cafes and a vibrant street culture.
Italy, in general, exceeded all my expectations. The beauty of Venice’s canals, the awe-inspiring architecture of Pisa, and the rich history of Rome left me with memories that I’ll treasure for years to come. There’s no doubt in my mind that I’ll return to Italy one day, as there’s still so much more to see and experience.