Hello Readers!
Italy had always been at the top of my travel list—the culture, the food, and the endless history—but I never imagined how much my love for cooking and baking would enrich my experience. My solo female journey across Rome, Florence, Milan, Sorrento, and Venice spanned 18 days, filled with unforgettable culinary adventures that still inspire my kitchen creations today.
From pasta-making classes to discovering hidden food gems, this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about finding comfort and confidence in solo travel through my passion for cooking, baking, and exploring local cuisine.
Pasta and Friendships: How a Cooking Class in Rome Changed Everything
I arrived in Rome, nervous but excited to start my culinary adventure. I had signed up for a pasta-making class through my hostel, hoping it would be more than just a cooking lesson. The day began with a trip to a bustling Roman market, where our instructor guided us through selecting the freshest ingredients and perfect wine pairings. The smells, sounds, and colors of the market were overwhelming in the best way possible, and I found comfort in picking out tomatoes and fresh herbs—simple tasks that grounded me in this new city.
Back in the classroom, we learned to knead and roll out different shapes of pasta, and make classic roman Bolognese sauce, along with delicate pumpkin ravioli with browned butter sage sauce. Each motion, from kneading the dough to stirring the sauce, reminded me of why I love baking back home—it’s therapeutic, familiar, and rhythmic. My anxiety about traveling alone melted away with every bowl of flour and twirl of pasta.
The class didn’t end with food. A group of us hit the town for dinner and drinks, making new friends and creating plans for the next few days. This culinary adventure not only introduced me to Roman cuisine but also helped me build connections with fellow travelers.
FAQ: Solo female travel sounds great, but how do you meet people along the way?
A: Meeting people while traveling solo can feel daunting at first, but it often happens naturally. I recommend joining local tours or classes—like my pasta-making class in Rome—because they put you in a setting where everyone is open to making connections. Staying in hostels or smaller accommodations with shared spaces is another great way to meet fellow travelers. Finally, don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals or other tourists. It’s amazing how a shared meal or experience can turn strangers into friends.
Florence: A City of Sandwiches and Gelato
Florence was next on my culinary adventure, and though I didn’t take a cooking class here, I had a list of sandwich shops, bakeries, and gelaterias that I couldn’t wait to explore. The city’s Renaissance charm made it easy to get lost in its narrow streets, but my focus remained on its food.
One afternoon, I decided to ask some locals near Piazzale Michelangelo for their favorite food spots. Their recommendations led me to amazing sandwich shops and gelaterias that weren’t crowded with tourists. I made it a point to try new flavors at each place, from savory prosciutto sandwiches to vibrant pistachio gelato.
But the highlight of my Florence culinary adventure came when I sat down for lunch at a busy restaurant. After chatting with the waiter about my favorite ingredients and flavors, I left the choice to him. He came back with a dish that was easily one of the best meals of my trip—each bite felt like a love letter from Florence itself.
FAQ: How do you find the best culinary experiences while traveling alone?
A: The key to a true culinary adventure is staying curious and open. Research local cooking classes, visit markets, and talk to locals for restaurant recommendations. I often ask for insider tips from waiters, taxi drivers, or even the person sitting next to me in a café. Don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path, as some of the best food experiences happen when you’re least expecting them!
Milan: A Blend of Flavors and Day Trips
Milan’s part in my culinary adventure felt different from Rome and Florence. It was a cosmopolitan city, and I connected with a group from my hostel to explore various cuisines. We visited an Irish pub during a soccer game and then headed to the iconic Starbucks Roastery. It was refreshing to mix my love for Italian food with something different.
The pinnacle of my Milan experience was a full-day trip to Lugano, Bellagio, and Como. The day was filled with boat rides, stunning views, and local treats. In Como, I enjoyed a solo lunch overlooking the breathtaking lake while indulging in fresh pastries from the famous stairway shops. It was a simple yet perfect moment—a peaceful pause in the middle of my culinary adventure.
Sorrento and Venice: Lemon Treats and Aperol Afternoons
My time in Sorrento was dominated by lemons and seafood—fresh lemon tarts, lemon gelato, and seafood straight from the Mediterranean. Each meal felt like a celebration of Sorrento’s vibrant coastal flavors, a continuation of my Italian culinary adventure. The seafood, in particular, stood out as some of the freshest I’ve ever tasted, perfectly complemented by the region’s famous lemons.
In Venice, I slowed down. The city was filled with canals, small cafés, and lazy afternoons sipping Aperol spritzes. I indulged in sandwiches and local snacks as I wandered the winding streets. Venice felt like a culinary pause—a place to reflect on all the flavors, moments, and memories from the past weeks of exploration.
Why Culinary Adventures Are the Best Way to Explore a New Place
What made my solo trip to Italy so unforgettable wasn’t just the beauty of the cities—it was the food, the cooking, and the moments spent learning about the local cuisine. Each city offered a new culinary adventure that helped me connect with the culture in a meaningful way.
As a solo female traveler, having a focus like cooking and baking allowed me to immerse myself in local traditions while giving me a sense of comfort. Whether it was rolling pasta in Rome, discovering hidden sandwich shops in Florence, or savoring fresh seafood in Sorrento, food became my constant companion on this trip. It turned my journey into an exploration of taste and tradition.
Engage Your Senses: Where Would Your Culinary Adventure Take You?
Have you ever taken a culinary adventure or are you looking for inspiration on how to incorporate food into your travels? If you could travel anywhere in the world for the food alone, where would it be? Let’s swap stories and recommendations in the comments. I’d love to share my tips for traveling, managing stress, and finding joy in the kitchen wherever you go!
Warmly,
Rae
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