The village of Vernazza in Cinque Terre, Italy.  One of five fishing villages that cling to the surrounding cliffs, where there is an infinite number of activities to enjoy.  From a beautiful oceanside hike between towns, to enjoying wine from the neighboring vineyards – it’s a must see and my absolute favorite place on Earth.

Because I just can’t get enough of Vernazza, here’s another shot to convince you it’s the most darling village ever.  While you’re there, take a dip!  The bright turquoise water is the perfect way to cool off after a long hike.

I’ve been on a lot of hikes, but the coastal trail that connects the villages in Cinque Terre is still my favorite.  Ever!  Make sure not to miss the Via dell’Amore, which runs between Riomaggiore and Manarola.  And whatever you do, don’t forget your love lock!

Colorful boats in the turquoise water, because… adorable.

Cinque Terre is filled with thin walkways and winding stairs.  It’s truly my favorite place to get wanderfully lost, and its beauty can’t be overstated.  As a result, it has also become quite popular and now requires a pass to visit.  So plan ahead!

From the coast, grab a rental car at DiscoverCars.com and head south to the Eternal City.  My favorite (albeit, horribly overcrowded) spot in Rome – The Trevi Fountain.  Throwing a coin in guarantees a return to Rome within 10 years (and all the coins are collected to help feed the local homeless population.  Another great reason to throw in some change!)

A typical sight in Rome: horse-drawn carriages and cobblestone streets.

The Roman Colosseum is a true engineering marvel (and an absolute beauty to visit at night, away from the crowds and gypsies selling trinkets.)  Nothing is more romantic than roaming the streets of The Eternal City in the evening.

Another of Rome’s many fountains – The Piazza Navona has four stunning water features and has been the center of countless celebrations and festivals.  It’s also my favorite piazza in Rome (or any other Italian city, for that matter.)

The freshest fruit you’ve ever tasted.  Because, why not?

The architecture in Venice is truly breathtaking.  The elaborate windows and doorways, the flowers, the canals… it’s romance incarnate.  While you’re there, stop by one of the many local shops for some Murano glass as a keepsake!

The facade of the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute is absolutely stunning, and dwarfs all other structures around it.  It was commissioned in the 17th century by Venice’s plague survivors in gratitude for their salvation.

A ride with an iconic gondolier is a must when you visit Venice.  In addition to being able to check one more experience off your bucket list, it’s a great way to see areas that aren’t accessible on foot.

Venice is an extremely walkable city, and some of the best sights are those you stumble upon while wandering through neighborhood streets and along empty canals.  Another great reason to mosey off the beaten path.

The oldest of four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge connects the San Marco and the San Polo districts of Venice.  It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most famous landmarks in the city.