Why choose between the history of the city and the relaxation of the sea? An authentic Italian journey often combines both. The energy of the “città eterna” (eternal city) followed by the restorative “dolce far niente” (sweetness of doing nothing) on the coast is a classic—and perfect—itinerary.
We suggest the ultimate “two-stay” trip: start in the elegant, local heart of Rome and finish on the golden shores of Sicily. Here’s why combining our homes in Prati (Rome) and Cefalù (Sicily) creates one perfect, seamless Italian vacation.
Part 1: The Roman Chapter – History and Urban Energy
Begin your trip at Casa 901 or Gracchi 278 in Rome’s Prati district. This neighborhood is the perfect Roman base for a discerning traveler. By day, you are a pleasant 10-minute walk from the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. You are perfectly connected by metro to the Colosseum and Spanish Steps. You can easily explore all of the city’s ancient wonders, gallery-hop, and immerse yourself in thousands of years of history.
By night, you return to a real, local neighborhood. You escape the tourist chaos and dine at authentic trattorias, have a sophisticated aperitivo with stylish locals, and shop on the grand Via Cola di Rienzo. You get the “monuments” and the “local life” all in one, sophisticated package.
Part 2: The Sicilian Escape – Sun, Sea, and Soul
After you’ve had your fill of history and bustling streets, it’s time to decompress. Take a short flight (less than 90 minutes) from Rome to Palermo, Sicily. From there, it’s a scenic one-hour transfer to Cefalù, where you’ll check into Pietra Kefahelion.
This is your time to exhale. Your new “home” is a stunning apartment in a medieval town, set between a towering mountain and the sea. Spend your days lounging on Cefalù’s famous golden-sand beach, getting lost in the winding Arab-Norman streets of the old town, and sipping an Aperol Spritz at a seaside bar. For a bit of adventure, hike “La Rocca” for a spectacular view or explore the mosaics in the magnificent Norman Duomo. It’s the perfect antidote to the energy of Rome.
Why This Combination is the Italian Stay Collection Way
The Best of Both Worlds
This itinerary gives you the full, balanced spectrum of Italian life. You get the unparalleled history and grandeur of the capital, followed by the sun-drenched, slower pace of the island. It’s culture and relaxation in one trip.
A Seamless Standard of Service
The best part? By booking both stays with Italian Stay Collection, you are guaranteed the same high standard of service and quality. You’ll have a personalized check-in, our “Impeccable Cleaning” promise, fast Wi-Fi, and a home curated with style and comfort. Most importantly, you’ll have our “Authentic Local Tips” for both Rome and Cefalù, giving you an insider’s key to each destination. Let us help you plan the ultimate, seamless Italian city-and-sea adventure.
Ready for the ultimate city and sea escape? Explore our curated collections in Rome and Cefalù to plan your perfect paired itinerary.
