211. Tuscan Spring Roadtrip: Beyond Expectations

211. Tuscan Spring Roadtrip: Beyond Expectations

Author: Kimberly Holcombe April 29, 2026 Duration: 39:12
In this episode, Tommaso and Kimberly share their road trip from Rome to Lago di Garda. They talk about unexpected turns, unique culinary experiences, and the unparalleled beauty of Tuscany in spring. Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, Grazie Mille! Key Points: Driving in Italy: Kimberly explains why they chose to pick up their rental car at Termini train station in Rome. They discuss the benefits of driving on secondary and tertiary roads, including Google Maps’ “punto panoramico” feature. Tommaso and Kimberly advise listeners to build in extra time for auto grills during holidays. Culinary Adventures: Kimberly shares details of a lunch with their friend Paolo, a private chef, including a twist on cannoli. They explain how to enjoy the aperitivo lifestyle in Italy, from simple snacks to elaborate preparations. Discovering Hidden Gems: They visit Montefollonico, a tiny hilltop village Tommaso describes as “almost too perfect.” Kimberly highlights the remarkable façade of the Duomo in Montefollonico They explore Castiglione del Lago in Umbria, a village they had never visited before. Reflections: Tommaso and Kimberly emphasize the unique beauty of Tuscany in spring, noting the vibrant green landscapes. They encourage listeners to consider early spring for travel to Tuscany to avoid crowds. They discuss how road tripping allows for spontaneous stops and discoveries.

There's a particular magic to Italy that goes far beyond its famous landmarks, a rhythm of life that you only really start to feel once you've lingered in a local piazza or navigated a bustling market. Kimberly's Italy Travel is an invitation into that deeper experience, guided by Kimberly Holcombe, whose own story began with a life-changing move to Milan years ago. That journey didn't just create memories; it reshaped her perspective, and she shares that genuine, lived-in understanding in every episode. You'll hear personal stories from her travels, often punctuated by the kind of comical, real-world lessons that no standard guidebook ever mentions. This podcast serves as a rich audio companion, weaving together passionate discussions about regional cuisine, layers of local history, and the vibrant arts that define Italy's culture. It’s about the sensory details-the taste of a perfectly simple dish, the echo in an ancient alleyway, the warmth of a conversation with a new friend. Listeners gain practical, invaluable travel tips born from direct experience, all while feeling like they're sharing a coffee and a laugh with a knowledgeable guide. Through these conversations and reflections, the aim is to transport you, offering not just a list of destinations, but a feeling for the places and people that make Italy endlessly captivating.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Kimberly's Italy Travel
Podcast Episodes
182.  Modena in Emilia-Romagna, Tasty Balsamic to Sexy Ferrari's ! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:16
Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso recount their visit to Modena in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. They describe the city’s attractions, from balsamic vinegar to Ferrari. They also…
181.  Arezzo,  Another  Beauty in Tuscany [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:27
In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso explore Arezzo, a Tuscan village offering a blend of history and culture. They share insights on its art, architecture, and the stories behind its famous figures. Key Points: Discove…
180. Montepulciano a special village in Tuscany. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:05
Arrival in Montepulciano: Kimberly and Tommaso’s journey to Montepulciano began with a typical and comical Tuscan drive. Navigating steep, rain-soaked, ancient stone streets tested their driving skills. The parking garag…
Italy Travel Updates: ETIAS, Pompeii, Florence & More! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:26
Kimberly shares crucial travel updates for Italy, including the delayed EU entry-exit system, changes at Pompeii to manage crowds, the opening of Florence’s Vasari Corridor, and new regulations for Airbnb rentals. This e…
179. Cortona all the way to the top!! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:47
In this episode of Kimberly’s Italy, Tommaso and I explore the unique charm and benefits of traveling off-season to lesser-known destinations like Cortona in the Tuscany Region of Italy. We dive into the rich experiences…
178. A Charming Evening in Cortona [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:01
In this episode, we take you on a journey to the medieval village of Cortona, Italy, where we experienced a delightful and unexpected Christmas celebration in December. Join Kimberly Holcombe and Tommaso il favoloso as t…
177. The Tour di Negroni [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:51
In this episode of our podcast, Kimberly and Tommaso offer insights that contrast with the often-misleading online travel information. They also share a few history-rich experiences in Rome, which eventually lead to the…
176. Winter Road Trip Rome  #2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:12
In this episode, join us as we dive into our recent adventure in Rome. From ancient pathways to culinary delights, we explored the city with curiosity and appreciation for its rich history and vibrant culture. Highlights…
175. Winter Road Trip - Rome #1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:05
Hello listeners, Welcome back to another episode of Kimberly’s Italy! We’re so glad you’re joining us again. Before diving into today’s content, we want to explain a recent delay in releasing episodes. Unfortunately, we…