Discover Hidden Gems in Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna: A Unique Italy Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Lucca's Charm

Lucca, Italy on March 1, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Taddeucci

Start your day with a delicious Italian pastry and coffee at this local favorite bakery known for its rich chocolate and almond torts.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Walk the City Walls

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Lucca's Renaissance city walls, which offer stunning views and a unique perspective of the town.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Leo

Savor homemade pasta and regional specialties at this bustling trattoria that locals adore.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Lucca Cathedral

This 11th-century cathedral is known for its remarkable architecture and rich history, a must-see for every visitor.
EUR3, 1 hour

3:30PM

Discover the Botanical Garden of Lucca

Tucked away from the main streets, this serene garden offers a peaceful escape, showcasing an array of exotic plants.
EUR4, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Walk in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro

Relax in the beautiful, oval-shaped piazza built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, lined with quaint cafés.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Giglio

Enjoy seasonal Tuscan dishes at this charming restaurant featuring local ingredients and a cozy ambience.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Carrara and Hidden Gems

Carrara, Italy on March 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Siete

Relish a rich Italian breakfast at this local café, offering scrumptious pastries and strong coffee.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:15AM

Depart for Carrara

Enjoy a picturesque drive to the enchanting marble town of Carrara.
EUR10 for fuel, 1 hour

10:30AM

Carrara Marble Quarries Tour

Take an engaging guided tour to the famed Carrara marble quarries, where you can also see sculptors at work.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Raffaele

Indulge in a dish of fresh pasta paired with local wine at this delightful restaurant known for its seafood.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Marble Museum

Discover the rich history of marble production art and craftsmanship in this captivating museum.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hidden Gem: Footpath to Montignoso Castle

Experience a short hike up to Montignoso Castle for panoramic views and fewer crowds, hidden from typical tourist paths.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to Lucca

Head back to Lucca to relax after an adventurous day.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Gigi

Savor delicious homemade dishes in this cozy and homely restaurant with a warm ambiance.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Florence with Local Treasures

Florence, Italy on March 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè del Duomo

Start your day at this café with a glorious view of the Duomo, enjoying a delicious breakfast.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:15AM

Check out of Lucca and head to Florence

Travel from Lucca to Florence, eagerly awaiting the wonders of the Renaissance.
EUR10 for fuel, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

Experience masterpieces from Botticelli and Michelangelo in one of the world's oldest art museums.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Dive into the culinary delights of a bustling market filled with local vendors offering diverse dishes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Ponte Vecchio

Stroll across Florence's iconic bridge known for its jewelry shops and picturesque views of the Arno River.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Check into accommodation

Settle into your hotel in Florence and prepare for the evening.
EUR100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Mario

Relish a delightful dining experience at this hidden gem known for its authentic Tuscan fare in a lively atmosphere.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 4: Discover Florence's Beauty

Florence, Italy on March 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gilli

Enjoy breakfast at this historic café, perfect for a morning pick-me-up with pastries and coffee.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

Marvel at Michelangelo's David and other renowned works of art in this iconic gallery.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Boboli Gardens

Wander through these stunning gardens filled with art, history, and scenic views of the city.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

This cozy spot offers incredible homemade pasta and other Italian dishes embodying local tradition.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce

Take in the beauty of this church, renowned for its frescoes and the tombs of influential Florentine figures.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Gelato at Gelateria la Carraia

Treat yourself to some of the best gelato in Florence as you stroll along the Arno River.
EUR3, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at All'Antico Vinaio

Savor delicious traditional sandwiches bursting with flavors in this beloved sandwich shop.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Transition to Bologna

Bologna, Italy on March 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Mignon

Relish fresh pastries and coffee at this popular local spot before heading to Bologna.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart Florence for Bologna

Travel to Bologna, renowned for its exquisite culinary scene.
EUR10 for fuel, 1 hour

10:30AM

Check into accommodation

Settle into your hotel in Bologna and take a moment to relax.
EUR100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Anna Maria

Sample Emilian cuisine, including handmade tortellini, in this charming neighborhood spot loved by locals.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Bologna's Street Art

Discover Bologna's vibrant street art scene in the historical districts, an often-overlooked gem of the city.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Climb the Asinelli Tower

Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the top of Bologna’s iconic tower.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Wine Tasting at Enoteca Italiana

Experience the local wines of Emilia-Romagna as you enjoy a relaxed tasting in a historic facility.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Cesari

Enjoy traditional dishes made with local ingredients in a cozy family-run atmosphere.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 6: Culinary Adventures in Bologna

Bologna, Italy on March 6, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bar La Linea

Enjoy a light breakfast with coffee and freshly baked pastries at this cozy café.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Cooking Class at CIBO

Learn to make traditional Bolognese pasta from scratch in a fun and engaging cooking class.
EUR80, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mercato delle Erbe

Sample local street food in this lively market filled with authentic flavors and food vendors.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Certosa di Bologna

Explore this peaceful cemetery filled with stunning sculptures and beautiful architecture, a real hidden treasure.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Quadrilatero Market

Stroll through this medieval food market known for its artisanal food shops and local delicacies.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria dell'Orsa

Indulge in hearty Bolognese specialties served in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
EUR18, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Modena

Modena, Italy on March 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Concerto

Start your day with a rich Italian coffee and delightful cornetto at this charming cafe.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart Bologna to Modena

Enjoy a short scenic drive to the beautiful city of Modena, known for its culinary treats.
EUR5 for fuel, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Visit Modena Cathedral

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its stunning Romanesque design.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Taste Balsamic Vinegar at Acetaia di Giorgio

Experience a guided tour and tasting of the famous balsamic vinegar, crafted using centuries-old techniques.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hosteria Giusti

Savor authentic Modenese cuisine, particularly the hand-rolled tortellini in this historic eatery.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum

Explore the life and legacy of automotive pioneer Enzo Ferrari, filled with luxury cars and fascinating exhibits.
EUR14, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Hidden Option: Modena's Via Emilia

Stroll along the historic Via Emilia, lined with charming shops and cafés, a quieter alternative to tourist paths.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Nello

Treat yourself to exquisite Italian fare in a cozy atmosphere, focusing on local ingredients and flavors.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 8: Journey to Sirmione

Sirmione, Italy on March 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Baroni

Enjoy your morning coffee along with fresh pastries at this quaint café on the way to Sirmione.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart Bologna to Sirmione

Travel to the stunning lakeside town of Sirmione, known for its natural beauty.
EUR15 for fuel, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Scaliger Castle

Visit this beautiful medieval castle that offers breathtaking views of Lake Garda.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Molo

Savor fresh fish dishes paired with local wines while overlooking the lake.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Grottoes of Catullus

Explore the ancient Roman ruins and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
EUR6, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check into accommodation

Settle into your chosen hotel in Sirmione for a relaxing stay.
EUR100, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Il Fiasco

Indulge in delectable Italian cuisine, particularly seafood, in a charming, intimate setting.
EUR28, 2 hours
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Day 9: Leisure Day at Lake Garda

Sirmione, Italy on March 9, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bar Aurora

Start your day with a refreshingly hearty breakfast while gazing at Lake Garda.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:30AM

Boat Tour of Lake Garda

Take a tranquil boat tour to admire the stunning views and picturesque homes lining the lake.
EUR30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Al Fabbro

Enjoy a casual lunch with delicious pizza amidst the charming atmosphere of Sirmione.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Thermal Baths

Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs and therapeutic pools offered at the spa.
EUR40, 2 hours

5:30PM

Stroll through the Historic Center

Wander through quaint streets, charming shops, and discover hidden cafés for a leisurely afternoon.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Rucola

Conclude your journey with delightful seasonal dishes in an elegant setting, offering local wines.
EUR32, 2 hours
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