Sirmione Serenade: Finding Love in Italy's Final Gem After Leaving My Heart in Sicily

Journey's End on Lake Garda - Reveling in the Last, Most Beautiful City of Italy's Grand Tour

After wandering through the city of love, Verona, soaking in the stunning views from Selvino's mountain peak, experiencing the enchantment of the floating city, Venice, and leaving a piece of my heart in Trapani, Sicily, our journey concludes in the charming town of Sirmione. Welcome back to "Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring" this fine Friday.

Is Sirmione worth a visit? Without a doubt yes! However, if you plan a summer visit, brace yourself for hordes of tourists. Here's a little secret: visit in early October, and you'll find a quieter Sirmione with lower prices for accommodations, food, and everything in between. Since our goal is to experience luxury on a budget, October is the golden month.

Walking is the way to explore this gem, and if you're not a fan, most hotels offer bicycles for daily rent. Sirmione exudes a welcoming vibe with the picturesque Lake Garda and the most charming villages Italy has to offer. Opt for a four-hour boat tour starting at 500 euros—it's a splurge, but here's a tip: share the cost with fellow travelers to make it more budget-friendly.

For a shorter, wallet-friendly option, take a 30-minute tour of Lake Garda for around 20 euros. Learn not just history but also about the lake's thermal waters, rich in minerals like sulfur and sodium, gushing up from its depths at a toasty 70°C.

Explore the historical landmark, Grotte di Catullo, surrounded by olive trees and offering a breathtaking view. Entrance fee: 9 euros. Sirmione unfolds its medieval charm with thermal spas, beaches, and a town embraced by gardens. Perfect for lovers or those seeking a soulful connection.

Don't miss a visit to Jamaica Beach for a unique rocky shoreline experience. The ScaligeroCastle is a must-see, preserving its medieval charm. Climb to the top of the tower and fort walls for the best views.

While strolling, the Flower House with a small café blanketed in purple bougainvillea will melt your heart. And like many places in Italy, there's Santa Maria Della Neve, a 15th-century church to explore.

My trusty notes and paper from the tough guide turned my spending into an educational endeavor (or so I tell myself). A day trip from Verona or Milan is ideal, but if you choose to stay in Sirmione, two days should suffice to explore the lake, castle, and indulge in gelato from the many shops within the Scaliger Castle.

Speaking of food, while Sirmione isn't the cheapest, booking in advance can land you deals. I stayed at Hotel Porto Azzurro, a three-star hotel with a seven-star breakfast. Pro tip: hotels that offer breakfast save you money on morning meals, leaving room to indulge in a lavish dinner.

Yes, the dinners can be pricey I once spent 50 euros on a plate of pasta and seafood. It was delicious, but not necessarily out-of-this-world good. Overall, the experience in Sirmione is one you won't regret.

And let's talk about gelato! The Scaliger Castle boasts an array of gelato shops with massive scoops. I battled through two flavors, and let me tell you, it was a war worth fighting.

Italy was truly worth every penny and moment invested. I reveled in the warmth of its people and immersed myself in the rich tapestry of its history, particularly falling head over heels for its cuisine. While every city I explored held its own charm, Trapani undeniably captured my heart. Sicily, you've left an indelible mark on me. From wandering the streets of love in Verona to marveling at the breathtaking vistas from Selvino's mountain peaks, and being enchanted by the floating marvel of Venice, each experience was unforgettable. 

Thank you for journeying with me through Italy. Next week, in "Pennywise and Passport Foolish: Navigating the Globe on a Shoestring," I'll be taking you to my homeland, Tanzania, where Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and the Serengeti await. I'm eager to welcome you to my home.