Ciao!
Welcome to the very late update in my travel life. In the summer of 2016 I was given the fantastic opportunity to study abroad in Italy. I didn’t quite know if I wanted to focus this blog on Italy itself or give my experience with UNO’s study abroad program. Since it’s been over a year since I stepped foot in Naples, I decided to write about Italy, in all its entirety and save my helpful tidbits with studying abroad for a later post!
Before I dive in, I need to explain that this was not a typical study abroad experience. My professor, who loves to travel himself, was gracious enough to let us students complete our coursework in the three weeks after school ended. When we arrived in Italy, we knew we were going to have no homework and were going to just have fun!
Alright here we go….
Naples
We were here for three days and were able to see the Gulf of Naples and the Castel Nuovo among other Naples sites. If you’re planning a trip here, don’t forget to try the regional staple, pizza!
Pompeii
From Naples, one can take a quick train ride to the city of Pompeii. Opt for the ticket that allows you entrance to Pompeii and Hercolaneum, Hercolaneum is a smaller site but just as interesting. I personally liked Hercoluneum more as the bodies of victims were better preserved. Also, make sure to get a map for the site so you can easily identify what you want to see.
Sorrento
My group then took a day trip to Sorrento, a beautiful water town that overlooks the Bay of Naples. Beaches and delicious sea food await you here.
Rome
My group then took on Rome. Ah, Rome. Where to begin? Rome is an iconic city and way too big to see everything in one day. Plan to stay for a few days, I think my group had four or five nights here.
Things to not miss:
- Trevi Fountain – throw with your left hand for good luck!
- Pantheon
- Colosseum and Roman Forum
Vatican City
While Vatican City is technically its own country, it can be accessed right from Rome.
The Sistine Chapel is truly a work of art. Painted by Michelangelo in the 1400’s, no pictures can be taken of the ceiling in order to preserve it. This means, you’ll only be able to experience it first hand!
Siena
Siena is quite Tuscan town with tons of medieval buildings. It was fun to see a different side of Italy after being in Rome. Here, one can relax as there’s not as many tourist and have a look at the Siena Cathedral, Palazzo Pubblico and Piazza del Campo.
Like this post? Pin it! 
Thank you for sharing! Italy is my dream destination! Pompeii sounds like it would be a great place to visit. Love the pictures! Thanks for sharing.
i hope you make it there one day! thanks for reading 🙂