The Roman Neighborhood That’s “Part Hogwarts, Part Wes Anderson,” and More From an Italy Native

Where in Italy did you grow up, and what was it like?

I grew up in a small city in Abruzzo, a still-undiscovered region along the Adriatic cost of Italy. It’s the kind of place where kids still play outside unsupervised, and life moves a little slower.

My favorite thing about life in Italy? Honestly, how much time do we have? Hard to pick just one. If I had to, I’d go with the food—it really does taste better here (cliché, I know, but true). But it’s not just that. It’s the way people take their time, how meals turn into long chats, and how there’s always something beautiful whether it’s a view, a building, or just a perfect espresso. So yeah… maybe a lot of things are better in Italy.

Do you have any recommendations for someone visiting Italy for the first time?

Don’t try to control everything. In Italy, things rarely go exactly as planned. And that’s part of the magic. Trains run late, there might be a strike, tickets to your dream museum sell out, or the #1 restaurant on your list is fully booked for the week. But trust me, the best memories often come from what you didn’t plan. Like that quiet little piazza you find after getting lost on your way to the Pantheon, or the family-run trattoria you stumble upon when you’re starving and everything else is closed. Let go a little and you’ll gain so much more.

What hidden gems would you share with a friend visiting Italy? These could be on an Ultimate Break trip, before, or after.

Quartiere Coppedè (Rome) Tucked away in the Trieste neighborhood of Rome, this area feels like stepping into a surreal movie set. It’s a mix of Art Nouveau, Baroque, and medieval styles. Honestly, part Hogwarts, part Wes Anderson. Most tourists miss it completely, but it’s the perfect spot for a quiet wander and stunning photos.

Civita di Bagnoregio (Lazio) This fairytale hilltop village looks like it was plucked out of a dream. You reach it via a footbridge suspended over a dramatic canyon, and yes..Harry Styles recently bought a house there! There's a small fee to access the town, which helps preserve it, but it’s worth every cent. EF travelers sometimes get the chance to visit as an optional on tour, and it’s always a highlight.

Campo Imperatore (Abruzzo) Nicknamed “Little Tibet”, this wide plateau in the Apennine Mountains feels like another planet. Think cinematic landscapes, grazing sheep, and a sense of total stillness. It’s also where Mussolini was imprisoned (wild, right?) and a favorite for stargazing or hikes. Very few international tourists make it out here, so it’s ideal for a real escape.

Why is group travel the best way to explore Italy?

Group travel takes the stress out of planning so you can focus on what really matters, experiencing Italy. You don’t have to worry about train schedules, restaurant reservations, or language barriers. Instead, you get to enjoy the ride, soak up the culture, and share the magic with people who are just as excited as you are. Plus, your Tour Director is an expert of the region and will show you the hidden gems, the best food spots, and all the little local secrets that make Italy unforgettable. It’s like having a friend in every city, and by the end of the trip, that’s exactly what your travel group becomes.

What advice would you give to women who are hesitant about traveling solo? 

You’re not alone in feeling nervous. But don’t let that hesitation hold you back. Traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone, especially on a group trip. It’s actually one of the best gifts you can give yourself: the chance to step outside your comfort zone, meet incredible people, and discover how capable you really are. Start with a guided group trip, you get the independence and the support. And trust me, future you will thank you for being brave enough to go.