March 14 at 11:24 am, I am gazing at Castel San Pietro, Verona Italy. . I am enchanted by the birds chirping as the ocean echoes softly. This was the day I cried from happiness and felt true peace. Being in a different country for the first time, completely alone as a Black woman, was an eye-opening experience.
Preparing for Italy: Overcoming Travel Anxiety
Planning my first international trip came with overwhelming anxiety. I had no idea what to pack, where to go, or how to stay safe. My nerves intensified when my travel companion had to cancel at the last minute. But rather than letting that stop me, I chose to move forward—same itinerary, same bookings, same dream.
Doubts crept in. What if I get lost? What if I don’t enjoy being alone? But ultimately, my experience in Italy redefined my view on solo travel, culture, and personal growth. If you’re debating whether to take that first step—do it.
Getting Around Italy: Transportation Made Easy
Italy’s transportation system is well-connected and efficient, making travel between cities seamless.
- Trains 🚆 are the fastest and most reliable option for traveling between major cities. I took the train from Milan to Verona without any issues.
- Buses 🚌 are the best choice for reaching smaller towns where trains don’t operate as frequently.
- Walking 🚶🏾♀️ is essential. Italian cities are highly pedestrian-friendly. For instance, Juliet’s House was only a three-minute walk from my hotel in Verona.
Pro Tip: Validate your bus or train ticket before boarding to avoid fines!
What to Wear in Italy: Style & Practicality
Fashion is deeply embedded in Italian culture. It’s not just about looking good—it’s a form of self-expression. Many restaurants and religious sites enforce dress codes, so being mindful of your attire is essential.
Throughout my trip, I opted for smart-casual outfits that were both stylish and comfortable, blending seamlessly with the local aesthetic. I’ll be sharing outfit inspiration!
Exploring Italy: City by City Breakdown
I visited Milan, Brescia, and Verona, each offering a distinct experience. Below, I share highlights from my journey, including accommodations, activities, and hidden gems.
Milan: The Fashion & Luxury Capital
Milan is the heartbeat of fashion and design, attracting luxury shoppers and art lovers alike. However, be prepared for large crowds—especially in peak tourist areas.
Where I Stayed
- Meliá Milano: A luxury hotel with impeccable service, though the room was smaller than expected.
Culinary Experience: Gelato & Pizza Making Class
One of the best decisions I made was booking a hands-on cooking class. I joined a Gelato & Pizza Making class upon arrival in Milan.
I had the opportunity to cook alongside a family from New York and a couple from Europe. Despite our different backgrounds, we bonded over our shared appreciation for Italy’s culinary traditions.
Fun Fact: Gelato was invented in the 16th century by architect Bernardo Buontalenti, who impressed Catherine de’ Medici so much that it became a global sensation.
Brescia: A Hidden Gem
Brescia had a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer tourists and a deeper sense of local culture. One thing I hadn’t anticipated was the city’s Monday closures, as many businesses shut down after the weekend.
Exploring the City’s Historic Cathedrals
I visited two breathtaking churches:
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo Nuovo) – A stunning example of Baroque architecture.
- Duomo Vecchio (La Rotonda) – A Romanesque-style cathedral with rich history.
After exploring these architectural wonders, I visited Biblioteca Queriniana, a historic library known for its stunning interiors and extensive collection of rare books. It was a peaceful escape into Italy’s rich literary heritage.
Afterward, I stopped at Oro Lounge, where I discovered Moscato d’Asti, a lightly sparkling wine from Piedmont. At only 5-6 euros per glass, it was shockingly affordable compared to wine prices back home.
Verona: The City That Stole My Heart
Verona was my favorite stop. The atmosphere, the history, and the scenic beauty made it unforgettable.
Juliet’s House: A Story of Love & Literature
A major tourist attraction, Juliet’s House brings Shakespeare’s famous tragedy to life. The museum showcases historical artifacts and explores the influence of Romeo & Juliet in literature and pop culture.
Curious Tradition: Visitors rub Juliet’s statue for “good luck” in love. Personally, I wasn’t too keen on touching a statue that’s been handled by thousands of strangers!
Castel San Pietro & Verona’s Scenic Beauty
The most breathtaking moment of my trip was standing at Castel San Pietro, overlooking the cityscape and the Adige River. The serenity and sheer beauty of the view solidified my love for solo travel.
Must-Try Food in Italy
🍝 Mastro Tortello (Milan): Home to incredible Carbonara with cheese and potato filling, topped with crispy bacon.
Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti (Located in Milan)
I went to try their amazing shrimp risotto with a appetizer!
🍷 Signorvino (Verona): The place where I stocked up on Moscato d’Asti.
🍨 Caffe Barbarani (Verona): Everything is made from scratch—I tried salmon, macaroni, and homemade pistachio gelato.
🍕 La Molinara (Verona): A cozy, laid-back spot with authentic Italian flavors. I can’t recall exactly what I ordered, but once I find my receipt, I’ll update this section!
🥢 Zazá Ramen (Milan): Their veggie dumplings & meatball ramen are a must-try.
Final Thoughts: The Journey Continues
Thank you for reading! I’ll continue updating this blog with additional insights, photos, and recommendations as I find time between grad school, work, and running my business.
This website is more than just a travel blog—it’s a personal diary meant to inspire others to embrace adventure. See you on the next trip! ✈️💕