Am I too late to get out of here, or are these guys going to burn my van to the ground? This adventure starts with two very different fiascos, both involving a mix of chaos, history, and a little danger.

Lauren and Sophie join me in Pisa, and we explore UNESCO sites in Pisa and Florence, from the grand attractions to lesser-known gems. Along the way, we have a surprise encounter with some very enthusiastic soccer fans.

Sitting in the sun at Pisa waiting for my daughter’s plane, I notice a group of locals helping tourists park. At first, I think it might be a scam, but it turns out this is their quirky way of making a living—tourists hand them a dollar as thanks.

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And then I see it: the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It’s absolutely stunning, like a postcard come to life. The Tuscan streets, the quirky locals, and all the unexpected sights make it impossible not to be enchanted.

Florence is just as magical. From my villa, I have a perfect view of the city’s iconic skyline. The walk from Michelangelo Square into the city is a feast for the eyes. First stop: coffee and a pastry, because when in Italy, do as the Italians do!

Next, we visit the Uffizi Gallery. Buy tickets in advance unless you enjoy waiting in hour-long lines! Inside, the art is overwhelming—Botticelli’s Primavera and Birth of Venus are must-sees, and learning the stories behind them makes the visit unforgettable.

After a day of incredible art, it’s time for pizza, wine, and a hidden gem of a bookshop discovered by the girls. Evenings in Florence are magical—the Duomo lit up at night, gelato in hand, bells ringing in the background, and yes, even a bonus hot Italian fireman sighting.

Then comes Fiasco #1: the historic wine windows. These clever little windows were once used to sell wine without opening the shop, avoiding taxes in the process. Now, they make for a fun, interactive experience—and yes, I got to try a little wine sampling.

After a long day, we head back to the van and enjoy the city lights from our hillside campsite. Florence by night is serene, but rest up—because Fiasco #2 is just around the corner.

I thought I’d found a quiet camping spot, only to realize it’s directly opposite the Fiorentina football stadium. Practice day draws massive crowds, and then the fireworks start. People light piles of leaves on fire, motorbikes zoom dangerously close to my van, and I wonder if my little home on wheels is about to become toast. Luckily, the crowd stamped out the fires before things got worse. It’s chaotic, slightly terrifying, but completely unforgettable.

Despite the madness, Florence and Pisa leave you with stories, laughs, and memories that last a lifetime. Next stop? Venice, with hidden gems that most tourists never see.