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Genoa, Italy
Stay July 4–6 in the atmospheric old town (Caruggi), a UNESCO-listed labyrinth of narrow medieval alleys. Don't miss the Palazzo Ducale and eat focaccia genovese and pesto trofie at any local trattoria. For budget stays, check out B&Bs in the Caruggi area or agriturismos on the outskirts — clean, affordable and welcoming.
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Cinque Terre, Italy
A stunning coastal stop between Genoa and Pisa — five colourful cliffside villages connected by hiking trails and ferries. Vernazza and Corniglia are the most charming and less crowded than Monterosso. Budget tip: stay in La Spezia (10 min by train) where accommodation is significantly cheaper and take day trips into the villages.
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Lucca, Italy
A hidden gem that most tourists skip in favour of Pisa — Lucca has a perfectly preserved Renaissance city wall you can cycle or walk along. The historic centre is full of quiet piazzas, Romanesque churches and excellent local trattorias. It's only 20 minutes from Pisa and makes a wonderful half-day or overnight detour.
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Pisa, Italy
Beyond the famous Leaning Tower, head to the Borgo Stretto neighbourhood for local life and good cheap eats. The Piazza dei Miracoli is worth a visit but arrive early morning to beat the crowds. Budget accommodation is plentiful here — hostels and small family-run B&Bs are easy to find near the train station.
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Florence, Italy
Florence rewards slow exploration — the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio and the Oltrarno neighbourhood (the local, less touristy side of the Arno) are all unmissable. For a hidden gem, walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset for a breathtaking panorama over the city. Budget stay tip: look for affittacamere (room rentals) in the Oltrarno or Santa Croce area, or campsites like Camping Michelangelo just outside the city with bungalows.
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Bellaria-Igea Marina, Italy
A relaxed Adriatic seaside resort town where you already have a hotel sorted — perfect way to wind down after the cultural intensity of Florence. The beach is long, sandy and family-friendly, and the town has a calm, authentic Italian holiday atmosphere without being overly touristy. Enjoy seafood, gelato and easy beach days to end the trip on a high note.