ChrisStein78727

My wife and I are planning on going back to Italy for our second anniversary. We went there on our honeymoon and loved it. My wife spent 3 years in Italy during her childhood and speaks fluent Italian. Last time we were there we flew into Rome, spent 4 days there, then 3 days in Florence, and 2 days in bologna, before heading up to Lugano and points north.

We will be traveling in late October, so weather might be an issue. Also, the duration would be about 8 days.

I am trying to think of alternative places to go for this visit that would contrast with the "City" tour we did last time. So far, we are looking at the Amalfi Coast and the Cinque Terre. So far, for Amalfi: Positano looks like the favorite amongst Fodor's posters and for Cinque Terre it looks like Monterossa.

I would love to hear ideas for these regions also for others. Some things about us to help you guide us in the right place: in our thirties, speak italian, I love to walk but wife isn't as a big a fan of long walks, I like cities and more urban situations, neither one of us like sunbathing or beach activities, we love to eat, we like to drink (in moderation, of course, wink). So, any thoughts or ideas? Thanx!

travelbunny

..what about padua and vincenzia area..off the top 10 tourist destinations but fascinating.

bobthenavigator

No question--that late stay south. I would do Positano for 4 of those days but would need to know more for a second destination. Is a car an option?

ChrisStein78727

bobthenavigator: yes a car is an option. I like a lof the suggestions I am getting. I haven't really pinged my wife yet on a lot of these but here are my thoughts. Last time we went to italy (and europe in general) it was rather whirlwind.

This time I am entertaining the idea of renting an apartment or villa in one central location and then maybe taking little day trips but always ending back up in the same place. I want to get the feeling of relaxed immersion. Where I have moments where I feel like I don't HAVE to do anything. Get to know where the Cafe's are, where the little grocery is. etc. Does this help? Thanx in advance. Chris

bobthenavigator

If you do a rental then Tuscany is your best bet, but that may be a bit suspect for weather that late. I was there last Oct., and by the 24th it was getting cool. The AC is the better weather but not worth 8 days--perhaps combine the 2.

Golfergal

For our 5 year anniversary, we took our first trip to Italy with another couple. Among other places, we spent a week in Taormina, Sicily. We were there mid to late October and the weather was perfect. We rented a villa/apt that had a huge terrace with views of Mt. Aetna, town, and the sea. Our experience was much like what you are describing. We did a few day trips, but not as many as we had planned. We had a very leisurely time and explored almost every crevice of the town. Almost every day we would make our lunch at the apt. with whatever caught our fancy at the stores that morning. Each night after dinner we picked up a bottle of limoncello and set on our terrace talking, playing cards, etc. My husband compares every trip to Taormina and wants to duplicate that same ultra relaxed and indulged (aka lazy) feeling. Just thinking about it makes me smile!

TravelsWithStDavid

I agree that Taormina whould be a great place for a second honeymoon (or third, fourth or whatever) There is plenty to do and see, great restaurants and shops. The scenery is fantastic. Just sitting in the theatre on a sunny afternnon is worth the trip.