Dawn at the sands of MonterossoArriving at VernazzaSchool of fish in the clear blue watersCorniglia sits a little higher than the restSunset at RiomaggioreManarola lit up at nightThe night sky stood clear in Cinque Terre
These five tranquil towns made it easy to hop around with its connected hiking trails and train tracks.
Ruins of Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius sitting eerily behind itRestored tilingMargherita pizza from Antica Pizzeria da Michele
I had learned the story of Pompeii in school, but it was different to see it up close and even go up the volcano that caused it all. Somehow, the highlight of the day was still pizza from its birthplace!
An unexpected visit from Pope FrancisLooking down on St. Peter's Basilica from its domeSt. Peter's Square busy as alwaysPantheonColosseumForum of Caesar
Crowds could be found in every direction, but all for good reason.
Affordable charcuterie like this one provided countless on the go snacking and lunchesRock formations of MontserratAt the top of Sant JeroniSunset shining through the Sagrada Familia
This lively city was filled with many foods to try. Took a little escape to the nearby mountains for a hike.
Silent morning at GeneralifeHills of AlbayzínMeticulous architecture of the Nasrid PalacesSunset landing on AlhambraThe flashy Basilica of San Juan de DiosSacromonte Caves Museum
Alhambra was certainly something else, but getting to call Albayzín home for a few days was unbeatable.
Inside of Almudena CathedralNights end much later in the Malasana neighborhoodQuiet sunrise at the Temple of DebodMarch for peace during times of tension between Catalonia and the rest of Spain
The nation's capital offered much history and bustling squares.