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Villa Borghese

Take advantage of the small bike rentals in the park. I didn't know about them and wasted time walking everywhere. Cycling is so much more fun and quicker!

Check out the details of the Galleria Borghese book before you go. I spent too much time in line because I didn’t pre-book! Trust me, it's worth it to reserve tickets online.

Pack a picnic! The park is huge, and eating in a beautiful spot is way better than overpriced food stalls. Just make sure to bring a blanket!
I recommend visiting during weekdays if you can. Less people mean a more enjoyable experience, and you'll have plenty of space to explore.
Sempione Park

I think visiting during weekdays is better. The park feels way more relaxed than on weekends, plus you’ll have more space to chill.

If you can, visit around 8 am to enjoy the quiet before the crowds roll in. It’s the perfect time to take beautiful photos without people everywhere.

Check out the little petting zoo near the castle. It's not huge but totally cute and my kids loved it! It was a nice surprise.
Cinque Terre

If you're planning to hike the trails, wear comfy shoes. I thought I could do it in sandals, but boy was I wrong! Blisters were not part of my plan.
I suggest starting your day early, like around 8 AM, to beat the crowds and get the best pics of the villages. Trust me, they look stunning without loads of tourists!

I recommend buying the Cinque Terre card for unlimited train travel. It's super useful if you want to move between the villages easily without paying for each trip. Total lifesaver!

Be ready for some steep climbs! I thought I'd be fine, but the paths can challenge your fitness level. Hydrate and take breaks when you need to!
Valentino Park

Check out the little boat rentals on the river. They’re super fun and affordable! I missed out on this during my visit, and I really wish I hadn’t.

If you’re into photography, aim for sunset. The warm light hitting the park makes everything look stunning! I got some of my favorite shots at that time.
Bring some snacks and drinks! The cafes are nice, but a bit pricy for just a coffee. A picnic by the river is a perfect way to relax and save some cash!

Plan to spend a good few hours there; there’s a lot to see! I underestimated the time I needed to explore everything. Seriously, give yourself at least 3 hours!
Vesuvio National Park

My advice is to wear good hiking shoes! The paths can be rocky and uneven, and I regretted my choice of fashion sneakers halfway up
I recommend taking the bus from Naples instead of a taxi. It's much cheaper and way less stressful than dealing with traffic and parking.

Try to avoid weekends if you can. Weekdays are way less crowded and you'll have more time to enjoy the views without the rush.
I suggest bringing a refillable water bottle. You can fill it up at the visitor center, and trust me, you'll need it while hiking the trails.
Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli

I suggest visiting on a weekday; weekends can get a bit crowded, making it harder to relax and enjoy the greenery.

Don’t skip the Natural History Museum right next door; it's a short visit but a great addition to your park day. Plus, check if there’s a discount combo ticket!

Grab a gelato from a nearby cafe before you enter; it's perfect for enjoying while you stroll through the park!

Look for the little free art exhibits scattered throughout the gardens; they’re a nice surprise and add to the experience
Villa Doria Pamphilj

Don't skip the little coffee kiosk in the park. Great coffee and pastries at a decent price! I ended up going back for a second cup!

Consider visiting on a weekday. The park can get pretty packed on weekends, and you'll miss out on the peace and quiet. I wish I had known that!

Bring a picnic! You can save some money by grabbing some snacks at a local deli and enjoying them on the grass. It's such a lovely spot!

I highly recommend visiting early in the morning, around 8:00 AM, to enjoy the park with fewer crowds and still cool weather. It's a totally different vibe!
Vittoriale degli Italiani

If you're into photography, try to catch the golden hour just before sunset. The lighting is stunning in the gardens and the views of Lake Garda are breathtaking.

Start your visit right when they open at 9 AM to beat the crowds, especially during peak season. It makes a huge difference when exploring the gardens and the exhibits in peace

Wear comfy shoes! The park is sprawling with lots of walking, and some areas have uneven paths. Trust me, you'll enjoy it a lot more when your feet aren't killing you.

Grab a guided audio tour if you're a history buff. I thought the extra few euros were worth it to dive deeper into the life of D'Annunzio and the history of the place.
Capodimonte Park

I recommend checking the weather ahead of time. I went on a day it looked clear, but the rain hit suddenly, and I wasn't prepared!

Consider visiting on a weekday rather than the weekend. I went on a Saturday, and it was super crowded — a bit overwhelming. Weekdays are more chill.

If you're interested in the art museum, try to visit around 2 PM. Not too crowded at that time, and the light coming in is amazing for photos!
My advice is to wear comfortable shoes. The park is huge, and you might find yourself walking a lot more than you planned!
Pollino National Park

Check out local markets for authentic, affordable snacks. I found amazing locally made cheese and cured meats that made my hike even better!

I recommend downloading offline maps. Cell service can be spotty in the mountains, and I got lost for a bit. Having a map saved me time.

Pack a picnic! There are some lovely spots to eat, and local restaurants can be pricey. Plus, lunch with a view of the mountains is unbeatable!

If you're into hiking, consider the trails near the coast. They’re lesser-known and more scenic! I accidentally took a popular route and it was super crowded.