European Adventure: Exploring Lake Como, Liguria, Florence, and Stockholm

Embarking on a European adventure is a dream for many, and I recently had the opportunity to make it a reality. Cue the eyeroll that all your friends on the internet are in Europe this summer, but truly if you plan well in advance it can be such an amazing way to escape the heat and immerse yourself in other cultures. Over the span of two weeks, I traversed the picturesque landscapes of Italy and the vibrant charm of Sweden, soaking in the rich history, stunning architecture, and of course Taylor Swift. My journey took me from the serene waters of Lake Como to the coastal beauty of Liguria, the cultural heart of Florence, and finally to the dynamic capital of Sweden, Stockholm. I’m a big fan of not gatekeeping so I will tell you the highlights in each, and provide some tips and tricks for those of you preparing to embark on a similar vacation.

Lake Como

Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, was the perfect place to begin my journey. Known for its dramatic scenery and luxurious villas, the lake offers a sense of tranquility and beauty that is honestly impossible to encapsulate. First things first, the internet doesn’t seem to convey just how big Lake Como is (and deep!). As such, it is really important to research where you are going to stay and get comfy driving a car on a very narrow highway with multiple switchbacks. 

Highlights:

Varenna: A charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is famous for its narrow alleys, colorful houses, and stunning views of the lake. This is where we chose to stay and I truly believe that it is one of the best vantage points of the lake. Having said that, it is remote from a lot of the attractions so make sure you are comfortable driving if you choose to stay here. There is a ferry that you can take to other parts of the lake and they permit you to bring your vehicle onboard. 

Tremezzo: This town is so charming and is located across the lake from Varenna. Tremezzo houses the famous Grand Hotel Tremezzo which is making the rounds on anyone interested in Lake Comos instagram. This hotel is luxury at the highest level-do not miss L’Escale Trattoria & Wine Bar, it is truly spectacular. Order the tableside Cacio E Pepe while overlooking the beautiful lake. It’s truly a life changing experience. 

Boat Tour: Exploring the lake by boat was by far the highlight of our vacation. The view of the Alps in the distance and the opulent villas dotting the shoreline created a picturesque backdrop.Our tour guide kept the prosecco flowing while he gave us some historical information regarding the lake and the famous estates and villas sprinkled throughout. 

Liguria 

From Lake Como, I traveled to Liguria, a coastal region in northwestern Italy known for its rugged coastline, charming villages, and amazing table wine.

Highlights:

Camogli: This picturesque fishing village is known for its colorful houses and pebbled beaches. I wandered through the narrow streets, enjoyed fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, and took in the beautiful coastal views. I personally think this is one of the most charming towns that Liguria has to offer.

Chiavari: Known for its elegant arcades and historic center, Chiavari is an amazing town that perfectly captures the charm of Liguria. I explored its bustling market, visited the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of the Garden, and enjoyed a leisurely walk along the palm-lined promenade. We also ate at Michelin star mention Lord Nelson Pub, which is nestled right along the promenade and was such an authentic experience.

Santa Margherita Ligure: Nestled along the stunning Italian Riviera, Santa Margherita Ligure is a picturesque seaside town that charms visitors with its vibrant harbor, pastel-colored buildings, and lush Mediterranean gardens. Just a stone's throw from the famed Portofino, this enchanting destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, explore historic villas, and indulge in fresh seafood at quaint local trattorias. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked beaches or cultural delights, Santa Margherita Ligure promises an unforgettable Italian getaway. If you want to go to Portofino make sure to leave early in the morning as it is a tiny island and the police cut off traffic flow when it is full. 

Florence

Leaving the coast behind, I headed to Florence, a city that needs no introduction. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. If you get anxious in large crowds make sure to stay on the outskirts of the touristy areas, everything is still walkable! 

Highlights:

The Duomo: Florence's cathedral, with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi, dominates the city's skyline. Climbing to the top of the dome was a challenging but rewarding experience, offering stunning views of the city.

Pasta Making Class: One of the most memorable experiences in Florence was taking a pasta-making class. We learned to make traditional Italian pasta from scratch and prepared a full meal, which we enjoyed with a selection of Tuscan wines. If you need homemade pasta, I’m your girl! 

Chianti Wine Tasting: A day trip to the Chianti region provided a wonderful opportunity to taste some of Tuscany's finest wines. We visited several vineyards, learned about the winemaking process, and enjoyed tastings of Chianti Classico, all while surrounded by the stunning Tuscan countryside. We even had the opportunity to taste some SuperTuscans!

Stockholm

My journey concluded in Stockholm, Sweden's vibrant capital, which is spread across 14 islands connected by over 50 bridges. While Stockholm itself offers a blend of historic charm and modern innovation, my primary reason for visiting was to attend a Taylor Swift concert, an experience that was truly life altering. I know I know I’m the problem. 

Highlights:

Taylor Swift Concert: Attending Taylor Swift's concert was an exhilarating experience. The energy of the crowd, the spectacular performance, and the chance to see one of my favorite artists live in such a dynamic city made it a night to remember. We had so much fun night 2 we bought tickets for night three. Before you shame us, they were very very affordable at the door and we were already there so we had to seize the opportunity.

Djurgården: This island is home to several of Stockholm's top attractions, including the open-air museum Skansen and the ABBA Museum. I spent a day exploring the island and its green spaces, enjoying the contrast between nature and culture.

Archipelago Tour: Stockholm's archipelago, with its thousands of islands, offers a perfect escape from the city. I took a boat tour through the archipelago, marveling at the scenic beauty and the charming summer houses dotting the islands.

My European adventure was a whirlwind of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. From the serene waters of Lake Como and the coastal charm of Liguria to the artistic treasures of Florence and the dynamic allure of Stockholm, each destination offered something unique and special. This journey not only broadened my horizons but also deepened my appreciation for the diverse beauty and history of Europe. If you're dreaming of a European getaway, I highly recommend adding these destinations to your itinerary – they are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Also, the Eras tour is not over yet-here is your sign to snag your tickets!