My first Solo trip to Italy

18 Jan

Written By Flavia

Roma & Pisa, Italia | 6 days of Unforgettable Experience

Let’s go back in time..

Before I even decided to start sharing my adventures, talents, and life experiences, I was courageous enough to go on my very first solo trip to Rome and Pisa, Italy. Although I always dreamed of doing it at since my teens, I finally gained enough courage to do so in September 2022.. during a pandemic.

Solo travel is often described as a life-changing experience, and my first solo trip to Rome and Pisa in 2022 proved exactly that. Traveling during the pandemic added an extra layer of uncertainty, but it also gave me the chance to embrace new experiences, make incredible connections, and see Italy through a unique lens.

**Exploring Rome: A City of History, Culture & New Friendships**

My journey started with a flight from **Brussels to Rome**, where I checked into my hotel, excited but slightly nervous. That nervousness quickly disappeared when I met another female traveler during check-in—it was also her first solo trip! We immediately clicked and ended up spending a lot of time together, exploring the city, meeting locals, and fully immersing ourselves in Italian culture.

One of the highlights of my trip was how easy it was to **meet new people**. During a **Vatican tour** and an **authentic Italian cooking class**, I connected with fellow travelers from **Portugal, the UK, Australia, and the USA**. The locals I met also gave me great insights into Italian culture, which made my experience even richer.

While **Rome is often debated among solo female travelers**, I personally had a great time. The city’s energy, history, and vibrant atmosphere made it impossible to feel lonely. There were endless things to do, from sightseeing and museum visits to simply wandering through the charming streets, soaking in the architecture and local life. However, when it comes to food, I have to be honest—I wasn’t too impressed. While I did enjoy some delicious pasta and wine, I found that not every meal lived up to my expectations. That said, the **cooking class** was a fantastic experience, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Rome!

While Rome is often debated among solo female travelers, I personally had a great time. The city’s energy, history, and vibrant atmosphere made it impossible to feel lonely. There were endless things to do, from sightseeing and museum visits to simply wandering through the charming streets, soaking in the architecture and local life. However, when it comes to food, I have to be honest—I wasn’t too impressed. While I did enjoy some delicious pasta and wine, I found that not every meal lived up to my expectations. That said, the cooking class was a fantastic experience, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Rome!

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Rome

While I felt safe overall, Rome does require some caution, especially for solo female travelers. My main recommendations:
✔︎ Stay in a hotel or hostel with other travelers, but avoid the cheaper areas around Termini Station.
✔︎ Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas.
✔︎ Check out our Travel Safety Tips page for more advice on staying safe while traveling!

That being said, most parts of Rome are safe, and I found the people to be warm and welcoming—certainly friendlier than Parisians (if you know, you know!).

**A Change of Pace in Pisa: Relaxed, Welcoming & Full of Charm**

On my **fourth day in Italy**, I took a train from **Rome’s Termini Station to Pisa** to visit a Dutch friend who was studying abroad there. Pisa felt completely different from Rome—it had a **small-city vibe** that reminded me of the southern Netherlands. It was filled with **international students**, yet also had a strong **local Italian community**, which made it feel both lively and cozy.

The locals in Pisa were even **warmer and more welcoming** than in Rome. Their laid-back nature instantly made me feel comfortable and safe. This made a huge difference in my experience, as I was able to explore at my own pace without feeling overwhelmed. Food-wise, **Pisa definitely won me over**. Unlike in Rome, I could really taste the love and care put into the food. Everything was **freshly made**, and as a foodie, that’s a huge plus for me! If I say the food was good, you can trust that you’re in for a treat.

Of course, I couldn’t visit Pisa without seeing the **Leaning Tower of Pisa**. However, I didn’t get to do as many activities as I did in Rome. Instead, I spent my time wandering through the city, visiting **local boutiques** filled with stunning Italian fashion. Seeing the **quality of Italian craftsmanship up close** made me appreciate why **Italian fashion is top-tier**.

Safety in Pisa: A Pleasant Surprise

One thing that stood out about Pisa was how safe I felt. Unlike in Rome, I even went on solo walks at night through a beautiful national park near the city center. While I wouldn’t generally recommend walking alone at night, I felt comfortable enough to do so here. I did stay on FaceTime with a friend—just in case—but the relaxed atmosphere and presence of locals, students, and people walking their dogs made it feel safe.

Final Thoughts: Would I Recommend Italy for First-Time Solo Travelers?

Absolutely! Rome and Pisa are both must-visit destinations, each offering something unique. Rome is vibrant, historical, and full of adventure, while Pisaprovides a more laid-back, intimate experience. If you’re looking for a destination where you can meet new people, explore rich history, and never feel bored, Italy is a fantastic choice—especially for your first solo trip.

Have you been to Rome or Pisa? What was your experience like? Let me know in the comments!

Planning a Trip to Rome or Pisa? Let Me Help! If you need advice on your next trip to Malta or want help with planning your itinerary, check out the Travel Assistance section on our Services Page!