Solo Trip Report: 14 nights in Rome, Florence, Bologna

A Comprehensive Solo Travel Experience: 14 Nights Exploring Rome, Florence, and Bologna

Embarking on a solo journey through Italy offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, unforgettable sights, and personal discovery. Recently, I completed a 14-night adventure across Rome, Florence, and Bologna, embracing a leisurely pace that allowed me to truly savor each destination. If you’re considering a similar trip, or simply seeking inspiration, here is a detailed account of my experience, including practical insights and key takeaways.

Travel Logistics and Arrival

I departed from Denver on September 23rd, flying British Airways in Economy class with a roughly 2.5-hour layover at Heathrow Airport. My layover included a memorable, albeit less-than-gourmet, meal—an unassuming prawn mayo sandwich from WHSmith, fulfilling a personal YouTube “food challenge” dream.

I arrived in Rome early evening on September 24th, settling into the charming Trastevere neighborhood. My first dinner was at Eggs, where I indulged in a visually appealing egg sampler—six different egg-themed dishes nestled in ceramic containers—and a flavorful carbonara enhanced with caramelized onions.

Cultural and Culinary Highlights in Rome

September 25th marked my visit to the Vatican. I managed to climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica dome, an exhilarating experience that, unfortunately, left me dizziness-prone and in need of medical attention. Fortunately, the onsite help station, operated by the Order of Malta, provided a free EKG and a banana to restore my strength, exemplifying exceptional hospitality and care. As a result, I made the difficult decision to forego the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, to rest—an experience I accept as part of mindful travel.

That evening, I enjoyed a Neapolitan pizza at 50 Kalo, appreciating its wet, slightly soggy center, and delighted in my first gelato at Fiordiluna.

September 26th brought a highlight—the Colosseum with an ‘attico’ ticket, which I highly recommend if you’re able to secure it. The early morning visit at 9:10 am offered a rare chance to be essentially alone on the upper level, with stunning panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere—a stark contrast to the typical crowded sites. Following this, I savored pizza al taglio at Casa Manco in Testaccio and explored a local supermarket, Conad, which brings back fond memories for me from previous work experience