Hello, I’m Sondra!
Solo Female Traveler. Part-time Model. Your Internet Bestie.
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Milan, Italy: A Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to Style, Culture & Slow Luxury
There’s a different kind of energy in Milan.
It’s not trying to charm you like Florence or overwhelm you like Rome. Milan is confident. Effortless. A little mysterious. And once you lean into its rhythm, it becomes one of the most rewarding cities in Italy—especially for solo female travelers.
This is where fashion meets history, where espresso is a ritual, and where independence feels chic.
Is this my favorite city in Italy? Not personally. But it definitely has its charms!
Let’s explore Milan, and make it an experience you can tailor specifically for you!
The Icons: Duomo & City Center Magic
Your Milan experience starts at the breathtaking Duomo di Milano.
This isn’t just a cathedral – it’s a masterpiece. Intricate marble spires, dramatic statues, and a rooftop you can actually walk on.
Don’t Miss:
- The rooftop terraces (trust me, go up)
- Watching the city from Piazza del Duomo
- A slow stroll through the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Solo Travel Tip
Arrive early in the morning or closer to sunset for a quieter, more reflective experience. I went at 8 am when there were virtually no people in the city center, and then walked to Sforza castle before the crowds arrived!
Art, History & Hidden Genius
Milan is layered with history—you just have to know where to look.
The Last Supper
One of the world’s most famous artworks, The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, lives here.
Important: Book tickets well in advance! It’s a timed, small-group experience.
Castles & Culture
Explore Sforza Castle, then wander into the artsy Brera district.
Think:
- Cobblestone streets
- Boutique shops
- Cozy wine bars
Perfect for solo wandering? 1000%
Fashion, Confidence & Main Character Energy
Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world, and you feel it.
Head to the Quadrilatero della Moda, home to luxury brands, polished storefronts, and impeccably dressed locals.
Solo Travel Moment
Even if you’re not shopping, this is your chance to:
- Dress up a little
- Walk with intention
- Channel your inner confidence
Because in Milan, style isn’t about labels…it’s about presence.
Aperitivo Culture: Your Favorite Daily Ritual
If there’s one thing Milan does perfectly, it’s aperitivo.
Head to the Navigli in the evening, where canals glow at sunset and bars come alive.
What to Expect:
- Order a drink (Spritz, Negroni, or wine)
- Enjoy complimentary snacks or small plates
- Relax, people-watch, and soak it all in
Why It’s Perfect Solo
Aperitivo is inherently social but low-pressure—you can chat or simply enjoy your own space.
What to Eat in Milan
Milan’s food is rich, comforting, and a little indulgent.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Risotto alla Milanese
- Cotoletta alla Milanese
- Panettone
And of course—espresso. Always standing at the bar like a local (just because I love watching them take and make all of the coffee orders, but you can sit down, too!).
Why Milan is Perfect for Solo Female Travelers
- Efficient public transportation (easy to navigate)
- Walkable central areas
- A culture that embraces independence
- Endless cafés where solo dining feels natural
Milan doesn’t demand attention—it respects your space. And as a solo traveler, that’s everything.
Find Your Rhythm in Milan
Milan isn’t about rushing.
It’s about:
- Lingering over coffee
- Walking without a destination
- Feeling confident in your own presence
From the grandeur of the Duomo di Milano to the quiet charm of Brera and the golden evenings along the Navigli, this city invites you to slow down—and show up as yourself.
And the best part?
Milan is just the beginning.
In the next post, we’ll step beyond the city and explore the breathtaking lakes, charming towns, and hidden gems of the Lombardy region…because some of Italy’s most unforgettable places are just a short trip away.
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Florence Through Female Eyes: Creators You Need to Be Following
This curated list of female travel influencers in Florence and Tuscany includes a mix of locals, expats, food experts, and solo travelers sharing tips on Instagram and TikTok. Whether you’re planning your itinerary or looking for daily inspiration, these creators will help you experience Tuscany in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Planning a trip to Florence or exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany? One of the best ways to uncover hidden gems, authentic food spots, and real travel experiences is by following female travel creators who are actually living, exploring, and documenting the region.
Female Travel Creators to Follow in Florence & Tuscany (Instagram + TikTok Guide)
Florence-Based & Tuscany Experts
1. Girl in Florence (Georgette Jupe)
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlinflorence
A go-to resource for Florence travel, Georgette shares insider tips, expat life, and local favorites.
Why follow:
- Deep local knowledge
- Food, culture, and lifestyle
- Great for long stays or relocation
2. Lost in Florence (Nardia Plumridge)
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lostinflorence
Focuses on boutique experiences and lesser-known spots.
Why follow:
- Hidden gems
- Aesthetic yet practical
- Slow travel inspiration
3. Nelli Florence (Elena Farinelli)
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ioamofirenze
A local perspective on events, food, and everyday Florence life.
Why follow:
- Real-time local updates
- Authentic Italian lens
4. Daphne Palmitessa
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daphnepalmitessa
Travel and lifestyle creator highlighting Florence and Tuscany.
Why follow:
- Stylish travel content
- Visual inspiration
5. Sofie’s World (Sofia Medina)
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofies.world
Expat life and Tuscany travel content.
Why follow:
- Relatable solo travel
- Lifestyle + travel mix
6. The Curious Appetite
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecuriousappetite
A Florence-based food expert offering culinary tours and deep dives into Tuscan cuisine.
Why follow:
- Food-focused travel
- Cultural storytelling through cuisine
- Unique dining experiences
7. Emiko Davies
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emikodavies
A renowned food writer and cookbook author based in Tuscany.
Why follow:
- Authentic Italian recipes
- Seasonal Tuscan living
- Beautiful storytelling
8. The Dolce Vita Experience
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dolcevitaexperience
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thedolcevitaexperience
Incredibly unique and intimate Italian cooking classes in the comfort of her beautiful Italian apartment! Enjoy a market tour followed by cooking a three course lunch, or opt for an evening aperitivo and making handmade pasta.
Why follow:
- Elevated and intimate cooking class experience for 2-6 people
- She is also available as a private chef and for meal prep!
Broader Travel Creators Featuring Florence & Tuscany
9. Fernanda Scarambone
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fescarambone
Curated itineraries and travel inspiration.
Why follow:
- Structured travel ideas
- Mix of luxury and accessible travel
10. Rachel Huhny
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachel.huhny
Lifestyle and travel creator with a strong visual aesthetic.
Why follow:
- Trendy travel content
- Engaging visuals
11. Twice the Traveler
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twicethetraveler
A travel duo sharing European destinations including Tuscany.
Why follow:
- Couple travel perspective
- Itinerary inspiration
- European travel guides
12. Sophia Florence (careca_soso)
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/careca_soso07
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@careca_soso
A Florence-based creator with viral short-form content.
Why follow:
- TikTok travel inspiration
- Trend-based recommendations
TikTok Creators Sharing Florence Travel Tips
13. Meghan Pruitt
Known for quick, save-worthy travel guides.
14. Ceara Kirk
Shares aesthetic and unique travel finds.
15. Travel Meets Style
Practical travel tips and recommendations.
✨ And Of Course… ME!
16. Curves and a Carry-On 😉
- Instagram: (your handle)
- TikTok: (your handle)
Your platform brings something essential to the Florence and Tuscany travel space:
- Solo female travel perspective
- Inclusivity (plus-size, WOC, LGBTQ+, accessible travel)
- Real, lived experiences in Italy
Why I stand out:
Most Tuscany content lacks representation and real-world practicality—I try to be a voice that fills that gap in a powerful way, from a newly-local perspective.
Do the Research & Curate Your Tuscany Experience
Following the right creators can completely transform how you experience Florence and the greater Tuscany region.
Instead of just seeing the highlights, you’ll:
- Discover hidden gems
- Eat where locals actually eat
- Travel in a way that feels more personal and aligned
And if you’re documenting your own journey? This is your reminder—you belong in this space too.
Because the future of travel content isn’t just about where we go…
It’s about who gets to tell the story.
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The Perfect Chianti Day Trip: Wine, Views & Little Treasures in Tuscany
If your dream Tuscany experience includes rolling vineyards, charming villages, and long, indulgent lunches with a glass (or three) of wine – this Chianti itinerary is exactly what you need.
Nestled between Florence and Siena, the Chianti region is where Tuscany really slows down. Think fewer crowds, more authenticity, and those cinematic countryside views you’ve been saving on Pinterest.
What This Day Trip Looks Like
- Morning: Scenic drive + Greve in Chianti
- Midday: Winery visit + long Tuscan lunch
- Afternoon: Castellina or Radda + hidden gems
- Golden Hour: Scenic viewpoints + wine bar stop
Option 1: By Car (Highly Recommended)
Driving through Chianti is part of the experience.
Why it’s worth it:
- Access to boutique wineries 🍇
- Freedom to stop at scenic overlooks
- Easier to explore smaller villages
Route Idea:
Florence → Greve → Panzano → Castellina → Radda → Florence
Option 2: Guided Wine Tour (Stress-Free Option)
If you don’t want to drive:
- Book a small group or private wine tour from Florence
- Includes transportation + tastings
- Great for solo travelers who want a social experience
Stop 1: Greve in Chianti — Your Gateway to Wine Country
Start in Greve in Chianti, the unofficial heart of Chianti. I can’t really explain it, but this little (like truly SO little) village is one of my favorite places. Antica Macellaria Falorni is one of my favorite butcher shops with rooms full of artisanal cured meats, and intimate dining space to enjoy an aperitivo, and really passionate and kind people!
What to Do:
- Wander Piazza Matteotti
- Visit local enotecas (wine shops)
- Stop by the famous butcher shop Antica Macelleria Falorni
What to Eat:
- Prosciutto + pecorino boards
- Schiacciata sandwiches
- A glass of Chianti Classico to start your day
Best Wineries in Chianti (From Boutique to Iconic)
Must-Visit Wineries:
- Castello di Ama
Art + wine + breathtaking views. A more elevated, curated experience. - Castello di Brolio
One of the oldest wineries in Italy with castle views straight out of a movie. - Montefioralle Winery
Small, family-run, intimate tastings—perfect for a cozy experience. - Fattoria La Vialla
Organic, rustic, and deeply authentic.
💡 Tip: Make reservations in advance – especially in peak season.
Where to Eat in Chianti (Unforgettable Meals)
Top Restaurant Picks:
- Dario Cecchini’s Solociccia
A legendary butcher serving meat-focused tasting menus (not for vegetarians!). - La Cantinetta di Rignana
One of the most scenic dining spots in Tuscany—vineyard views for days. - Osteria di Passignano
Michelin-starred Tuscan cuisine in a historic abbey setting.
What to Try:
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina 🥩
- Pici pasta with truffle or ragù
- Local Chianti Classico wines 🍷
Stop 3: Castellina & Radda — Storybook Villages
Head to Castellina in Chianti or Radda in Chianti for a slower, more local feel.
Don’t Miss:
- Via delle Volte (covered medieval walkway in Castellina)
- Quiet alleyways + artisan shops
- Small wine bars with terrace views
💡 These towns feel untouched compared to more touristy spots—perfect for soaking in authentic Tuscany.
Scenic Viewpoints & Hidden Gems
Must-See Scenic Spots:
- Strada Chiantigiana (SR222) – one of the most beautiful drives in Italy
- Random vineyard pull-offs (seriously: stop when it feels right)
- Golden hour anywhere in Chianti = magic ✨
Hidden Gems:
- Badia a Passignano – a peaceful abbey surrounded by vineyards
- Montefioralle – tiny medieval village most tourists skip
- Local olive oil tastings at small farms
Sample Chianti Day Trip Timeline
9:00 AM – Leave Florence
10:00 AM – Explore Greve in Chianti
11:30 AM – Winery tasting
1:30 PM – Long lunch with wine
3:30 PM – Visit Castellina or Radda
5:30 PM – Scenic drive + photo stops
7:00 PM – Return to Florence
💡 Tips for the Perfect Chianti Experience
- Book wineries + restaurants in advance
- Don’t rush – Chianti is about lingering
- Bring a cute outfit for photos (trust me 📸)
- Pace your wine tastings (hydration is key!)
Why Chianti Should Be On Your Tuscany Itinerary
If Florence is art and Siena is history, Chianti is feeling. It’s where you slow down, sip longer, and fall in love with Tuscany in a deeper way.
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The Perfect Tuscany Day Trip: Siena, San Gimignano & Pisa (From Florence)
Dreaming of a Tuscan day filled with medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and unforgettable food? This itinerary packs three of Tuscany’s most magical destinations – Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa – into one unforgettable adventure from Florence.
Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a girls’ getaway, or just want to soak up Tuscany’s charm in one day, this guide gives you everything: transportation options, what to eat, what to see, and how to make it feel magical – not rushed.
What This Day Trip Looks Like
- Morning: Siena (history + espresso)
- Midday: San Gimignano (wine + gelato + views)
- Afternoon/Evening: Pisa (iconic sights + sunset stroll)
Option 1: By Car (Best for Flexibility)
Driving is by far the easiest way to hit all three spots in one day.
You can hit up my girl Luciana with Tuscany4Explore to handle all of the planning, driving and tasting reservations for you, too! Her prices are incredibly reasonable, accommodating for groups of all sizes, and she will take you to local producers giving you the real experience of Tuscan specialties without the tourist “fluff.”
If you’re going to do it yourself, consider renting a car. Keep in mind that you have to be very careful of speeding limits and Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) cameras.
Why choose a car?
- Freedom to move at your own pace
- Easier access to hill towns like San Gimignano
- Scenic Tuscan countryside views 🌿
Suggested Route:
Florence → Siena (1 hr 15 min) → San Gimignano (45 min) → Pisa (1 hr 30 min) → Florence (1 hr)
Option 2: By Train (Budget-Friendly + Relaxed)
You can do this trip by train, but it requires more planning.
- Florence → Siena (direct train ~1.5 hrs)
- Siena → Pisa (train ~2 hrs)
- Pisa → Florence (~1 hr)
⚠️ Note: San Gimignano is not directly accessible by train—you’ll need a bus from Poggibonsi.
If you want less stress, consider:
- Visiting Siena + Pisa by train
- Or booking a small group tour that includes all three
Stop 1: Siena — Medieval Magic & Slow Mornings
Start your day early in Siena, one of Tuscany’s most enchanting medieval cities.
Must-See Highlights:
- Piazza del Campo – one of Europe’s most beautiful squares
- Duomo di Siena – dramatic black-and-white marble cathedral
- Wandering the winding streets (no map needed—get lost on purpose)
What to Eat:
- Ricciarelli (soft almond cookies unique to Siena)
- Pici pasta with cacio e pepe or wild boar sauce
- A quick Italian breakfast: espresso + cornetto
💡 Solo travel tip: Grab a cappuccino and sit in the piazza—this is peak “main character in Italy” energy.
Stop 2: San Gimignano — Towers, Wine & Gelato
Next up: San Gimignano, known as the “Medieval Manhattan” for its iconic towers.
What Makes It Special:
- Skyline filled with ancient stone towers
- Stunning countryside views
- Slower, romantic vibe compared to bigger cities
Don’t Miss:
- Climbing a tower for panoramic views
- A wine tasting of Vernaccia di San Gimignano (crisp white wine – one of the only white wines I actually enjoy, in fact!)
- Gelato from Gelateria Dondoli (world-famous!), especially the saffron & rosewater flavor! It’s so unique!
- There’s a cute little lavender shop here with fun souvenirs and a lavender limoncello!
What to Eat:
- Tagliere boards (cheese + cured meats)
- Wild boar salami
- Local saffron dishes (a regional specialty)
💡 Content creator moment: This is one of the most photogenic towns in Tuscany—golden light + stone buildings = perfection.
Stop 3: Pisa — Iconic & Surprisingly Underrated
End your day in Pisa—yes, it’s touristy, but it’s still worth it.
Must-See:
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza dei Miracoli (cathedral + baptistery)
- Walk along the Arno River at sunset
- Check out the beautiful H & M store! The only one with beautiful and historic frescoes along the walls and ceilings!
What to Eat:
- Cecina (Tuscan chickpea flatbread)
- Seafood pasta (closer to the coast = fresher options)
- Aperitivo with a spritz or local wine
💡 Pro tip: Visit later in the day when crowds thin out—it feels completely different.
What You’ll Eat Throughout the Day (Tuscany Food Guide)
This trip is basically a food tour in disguise.
Must-Try Tuscan Staples:
- Pecorino cheese
- Wild boar (ragù or salami)
- Fresh pasta (pici!)
- Local wines (Chianti + Vernaccia)
- Gelato (obviously)
🗺️ Sample Timeline
7:30 AM – Leave Florence
9:00 AM – Explore Siena
12:30 PM – Head to San Gimignano + lunch
3:30 PM – Drive to Pisa
5:00 PM – Explore Pisa + sunset
7:00 PM – Return to Florence
💡 Tips for the Perfect Day
- Wear comfortable shoes (cobblestones are no joke)
- Bring a scarf or cover-up for churches
- Stay hydrated – Tuscan sun hits differently
- Don’t over-schedule! Leave room for wandering
Is This Day Trip Worth It?
Yes – but it’s a full day. If you prefer slow travel, consider splitting it into two days. But if you want a highlight reel of Tuscany in one shot? This is it.
Check out my guide to spending one week in Florence, too! It’ll help you lay the perfect foundation for your trip!
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Florence, Italy Travel Guide: The Perfect 1-Week Itinerary (With Day Trips & Local Experiences)
Honey, I’m home! Firenze, or Florence, is currently my home base in Italy. While it is definitely not a small or less touristy city, it is one that immediately felt like home to me when I first visited 12 years ago.
If you’ve been dreaming about Italy, chances are you’ve imagined Florence.
The birthplace of the Renaissance is more than just museums and monuments – it’s a feeling. Golden light on stone buildings, slow mornings with cappuccino, art around every corner, and a rhythm that invites you to linger.
For solo female travelers, Florence is one of the best places to base yourself for a full week in Italy. It’s walkable, welcoming, and perfectly positioned for incredible day trips.
Let’s break down the ultimate 7-day Florence itinerary with local experiences, hidden gems, and unforgettable escapes.
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Welcome to Florence, where every street feels like a painting.
Ease Into the City:
- Visit the iconic Florence Cathedral
- Wander Piazza della Signoria
- Enjoy your first aperitivo
✨ Solo Tip: Keep today light. Let yourself adjust, wander, and soak it all in. Also, gelato. Get the gelato. My favorites are from MySugar Firenze and Perche No!
Day 2: Renaissance Art & Culture
Florence is an open-air museum, but some stops are essential.
Must-See Highlights:
- Uffizi Gallery
- Accademia Gallery (home of Michelangelo’s David)
- Walk across Ponte Vecchio
✨ Solo Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid stress.
Day 3: Food, Markets & Local Flavor
Food is a huge part of the Florence experience.
What to Do:
- Explore Mercato Centrale
- Take a food tour or cooking class (highly recommend my friend Ileana, with Dolce Vita Experience, who hosts market tours and then takes you back to her cozy apartment for aperitivo, handmade pasta, and comforting dishes with dessert)!
- Try local dishes like pici pasta and ribollita
✨ Solo Tip: Food tours are a great way to meet people while traveling alone.
Day 4: Half-Day Trip to Fiesole (Easy Escape)
Just 20 minutes from Florence, Fiesole offers a peaceful retreat above the city.
Why Go:
- Stunning panoramic views of Florence
- Roman ruins and quiet charm
- Fewer crowds, more breathing room
How to Experience It Best:
Book a guided half-day tour with Tuscany4Explore, a woman-owned company offering personalized experiences you can book online and contact her to customize options for you, if needed!
The owner, Luciana, has become a close friend over the years and she is the best at creating custom, personalized experiences exploring Tuscany and the Chianti region. She also can accommodate tours to places like Venice, Cinque Terre, the thermal baths and more! Bonus points, she supports a lot of other women-owned businesses.
✨ Solo Tip: Guided tours add safety, connection, and deeper cultural insight.
Day 5: Florence Like a Local
Time to slow down and live like a local.
Ideas:
- Explore Oltrarno (artisan district)
- Visit Boboli Gardens
- Rent a bike or just wander
- Get handmade leather goods at the Scuola del Cuoio, a local school for leather artisans with amazing products at a fraction of the retail price.
✨ Solo Tip: This is your “no plans” day—follow your curiosity.
Day 6: Full-Day Trip to Lucca
Charming, relaxed, and incredibly underrated, Lucca is perfect for a full-day escape.
What Makes Lucca Special:
- Renaissance walls you can bike around
- Beautiful piazzas and historic streets
- A slower, less touristy vibe
Upgrade Your Experience:
Explore Lucca with Tuscany4Explore for a curated, stress-free day led by local experts. Also, check out twin travel bloggers, Twice the Traveler, who relocated to Lucca and have a ton of great recommendations, too!
✨ Solo Tip: Lucca is incredibly safe and easy to navigate solo.
Day 7: Wine, Reflection & Farewell
End your week with a little indulgence.
Options:
- Take a half-day or full-day wine tour into Chianti with Luciana
- Enjoy a rooftop sunset in Florence
- Reflect on your journey (journal moment!)
- Take the charter bus from Santa Maria Novella to the incredible outlet mall, called “The Mall,” and enjoy duty-free designer shopping at crazy discounts. Say it with me: GUCCI OUTLET.
✨ Solo Tip: This is your “main character” moment—celebrate it.
Creators to Follow for Florence & Italy Travel Tips
Want real-time inspiration and insider tips? Follow these creators:
- Me 😉 (Curves and a Carry On) – Solo female travel, Italy life, and real experiences. @curvesandacarryon on all platforms.
- Search hashtags like #FlorenceItaly, #SoloFemaleTravelItaly, #TuscanTravel
Next week, I’ll have a comprehensive list published of who you should follow (in my humble opinion)!
✨ Pro Tip: Save posts before your trip for easy access offline.
Why Florence is Perfect for Solo Female Travelers
- Walkable and easy to navigate
- Strong tourism infrastructure
- Welcoming, social atmosphere
- Endless opportunities for both connection and solitude
A week in Florence gives you more than just a vacation – it gives you a rhythm.
From the art of the Uffizi Gallery to the peaceful hills of Fiesole and the charm of Lucca, this itinerary blends culture, rest, and exploration in a way that feels intentional.
And with local experiences, you’re not just visiting Tuscany – you’re connecting with it.
Because the best trips aren’t rushed.
They’re felt.
About Me
Born in Portsmouth, Virginia and raised in San Diego, California. I have a passion for exploring the world and seeing all it has to offer. Cultural experiences have shaped me into a person who tries to leave the world feeling a little more love whenever I show up. Come with me, and let’s have the best adventure!
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