Wandering Through Italy: How My First Solo Trip Helped Me Rediscover Myself
There I was—mid-breakup, questioning my life, my identity, and what truly made me happy. I had the stable job, the home, the routine… but when you lose a relationship that once defined so much of your world, it’s like someone pulled the rug out from under you. Suddenly, I wasn’t “someone’s partner” anymore. So who was I? What did I want?
There was only one way to find out: Book a solo trip to Italy. There was only one way to find out: Book a solo trip to Italy.
The Flight to Freedom ✈️
I boarded my Norse Airlines flight, buzzing with excitement. I had never traveled alone before, and Italy had always been on my dream list. The best part? I had an entire row to myself—three glorious seats that became my makeshift bed for the night. Sure, it wasn’t first-class comfort, but I didn’t care. Every deep breath of gratitude I took reminded me: I was really doing this.
When we started our descent into Rome, I caught my first glimpse of the Italian coastline. As I stepped outside the airport, I inhaled deeply and whispered to myself, “My self-independence starts now.”
The Journey Through Italy 🇮🇹
Rome: Where History and Dreams Collide
Rome was my first stop, and let me tell you—it was a love-at-first-sight kind of city. I walked through the cobblestone streets, soaking in the ancient ruins, buzzing piazzas, and mouthwatering smells of fresh pasta.
I tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain (manifesting new beginnings, of course), stood in awe at the Colosseum, and climbed the Spanish Steps, where I treated myself to a rooftop aperitivo with the best view of the city.
Solo travel tip: If you want an authentic food experience, avoid the tourist traps! Instead of waiting in long lines, I found hidden local gems serving the creamiest carbonara and the most flavorful amatriciana pasta.
Florence: A Storybook Come to Life
Next up was Florence, and WOW—this city looked like it had been sketched for a Disney movie. The Duomo’s intricate beauty left me speechless, but the real highlight? A Tuscan cooking class!
I met my instructor at a bustling market, picked out the freshest ingredients, and took a bus to a gorgeous mountain-top estate overlooking the city. There, I learned to make fresh pasta, tiramisu, and traditional Tuscan dishes—all while sipping local wine. It was hands down one of the most magical experiences of my life.
Venice: Floating Through My Own Fairytale
There’s something about Venice that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. There were no cars—just boats, gondolas, and canals winding through pastel-colored buildings.
I bargained for a gondola ride (cash is key to getting a better price!), watched the sunset reflect off the water, and spent hours chatting with locals. By the time I left, I felt completely at peace—like I had reconnected with a version of myself I thought I had lost.
Milan: The Grand Finale
Milan was my last stop, and I initially had zero expectations. It was more modern and business-like than the rest of Italy, but after a week of nonstop adventure, I just wanted to relax.
One night, my friend messaged me saying, “Don’t waste your last night in Italy. Go out!” So, I dragged myself to a rooftop bar for a drink—and ended up staying until 1 AM. The DJ was amazing, a violinist played along with the music, and I met a group of locals who shared their stories with me over cocktails. It was the perfect ending to my Italian adventure.
What Solo Travel Taught Me About Myself
This trip wasn’t just about seeing Italy—it was about rediscovering myself. When I stripped away the heartache, stress, and daily routines, I realized:
🌿 I am not lost. I am free.
🌿 I am not broken. I am growing.
🌿 I am not just someone’s partner. I am ME.
Solo travel has a way of reminding you of your core self—the version of you that isn’t weighed down by expectations, labels, or past pain. It was empowering, liberating, and life-changing.
For Any Woman Thinking of Traveling Solo… DO IT.
Here’s my advice:
✨ Plan your days with intention—at least one big activity a day so you’re never wandering aimlessly.
✨ Be open to meeting people—whether it’s a group tour or just chatting with bartenders, solo doesn’t mean lonely.
✨ Step out of your comfort zone—this is your chance to create memories that will stay with you forever.
Life shouldn’t be a mundane routine where you just “get through” each day. It should be filled with incredible, happy moments that make your heart race with excitement.
And the only way to create those moments? Get out there and live them. 💕