ITALY
Italy is a country that invites you to slow down and wander without a plan.
My first trip to Italy was a spontaneous one with my mom, just 48 hours’ notice. We stayed in a lofted Airbnb tucked into ancient Roman ruins in the Jewish Ghetto. A few years later, we returned for a longer trip through Italy, from Bologna to Venice, Parma, Cinque Terre, Lucca, and Florence. Some of my favorite moments were the unplanned ones - listening to water lap against the boats in Riomaggiore, eating pizza on the beach, and stumbling across a flea market in Lucca.
What I love most about Italy is the way life revolves around food. Meals are unhurried, often communal, and sometimes shared with strangers who don’t stay strangers for long. It’s a reminder of how much beauty there is in lingering and how meaningful travel can be when you allow yourself to truly be present.
The places I’d actually go back to…
Field Notes
PUGLIAYou don’t need a car in Puglia, and I wish someone had told me that. After one attempt at driving through Ostuni, I realized the rental car everyone told me I needed was actually making the trip harder.
Favorite Stays
Piazza Santo Stefano Loft
BOLOGNAI loved the historical architecture set against bright orange accents, luxury bedding, and quiet location.
Location: Bologna, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 1 bedroom and 1.5 bathrooms
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, and friends
Amenities and More: Incredible views of the neighboring church, fully stocked kitchen, and designer bathrooms.
AlmaVenus Studio Suite
RIOMAGGIOREI loved the views of colorful Riomaggiore, the sea breeze, and bright tiles.
Location: Riomaggiore, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom
Perfect for: Solo travelers, a couple, or friends
Amenities and More: Air conditioning, easy access to all of Cinque Terre, and luggage drop off.
ROMEOttavia al Foro
I loved the Roman ruins that surround this Airbnb, the fusion of history and modern conveniences, and the perfect proximity to the river and areas of interest.
Location: Rome, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms
Perfect for: Mother-daughter trips, couples, and friends
Amenities and More: Multiple bathrooms (hard to find in Italy!), a washer and dryer, and Nespresso machine.
Palazzo della Cancelleria Apartment
ROMEI loved the original architecture, king sized bed, and beautiful decor.
Location: Rome, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom
Perfect for: Solo travelers, couples, and small families
Amenities and More: Convenient location next to Palazzo della Cancelleria, air conditioning and heat, elevator, and additional housekeeping available upon request.
LECCECasa Rosa Lecce
I loved this Airbnb’s incredible design and aesthetic. It was the perfect retreat after a week exploring Puglia and included everything you could possibly need in a home.
Location: Lecce, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom
Perfect for: Families, girls getaways, and interior design lovers.
Amenities and More: Three balconies, luxury linens, and a fully equipped kitchen.
OSTUNIPalazzo Melogna
I loved this Airbnb’s rooftop with incredible outdoor entertaining space. The interior perfectly blends historic charm, like original tiles and arched ceilings, with modern upgrades.
Location: Ostuni, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms
Perfect for: Larger families, groups of friends, and anyone needing some extra space.
Amenities and More: Hot tub, outdoor kitchen, and large bathtub.
MONOPOLICasa Moeca
The rooftop terrace at Casa Moeca is the star of this property. With sweeping city views and outdoor seating, it provides the perfect spot for your morning coffee, afternoon tanning, and evening glass of wine.
Location: Monopoli, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms
Perfect for: Small families, couples, and friends.
Amenities and More: A balcony, everything you need for the beach, and pantry staples.
BARIPetruzzelli Luxury Apartment
This Airbnb is the perfect base for exploring Bari before leaving Puglia. I loved the large living area, balcony, and proximity to Bari Vecchia.
Location: Bari, Italy
Number of Guests: 4
Rooms: 1 bedroom and 2 bathrooms
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, and those traveling in and out of the Bari airport.
Amenities and More: Large kitchen, pull-out sofa, and luggage storage.