Travel with Rick Steves

805 Italy Side-Trip Towns; Overnight; Enjoying Mexico City

Sep 13, 2025
Join Anne Long, a seasoned tour guide in Italy, as she reveals hidden gems beyond the tourist hotspots of Florence, Venice, and Rome. Dan Richards shares captivating stories about the unseen heroes of the night, from bakers to emergency responders, and their vital contributions. Meanwhile, David Lita takes us through the vibrant streets of Mexico City, exploring its multicultural neighborhoods and culinary evolution, along with the challenges posed by rising tourism. It's a delightful journey into culture and adventure!
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ADVICE

Choose Small-Town Side Trips From Big Cities

  • Visit smaller towns near major Italian cities to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed pace.
  • Use short train rides to reach authentic places like Caserta, Vico Equense, Procida, and Ischia.
ADVICE

Day Trips From Rome To Escape Crowds

  • From Rome, go to Tivoli for Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa for art, fountains, and ancient ruins.
  • Consider Viterbo or Perugia for medieval streets, thermal waters, and fewer tourists.
ADVICE

Explore Tuscan Hill Towns Near Florence

  • From Florence, choose hill towns like Arezzo, Volterra, Pistoia, or Montecatini for medieval charm and local life.
  • Take regional trains and funiculars to reach hilltop centers easily.
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