A final trip in the footsteps of Romeo

Today began with the sound of rain drumming against my window. As I got ready, I was already considering skipping the planned trip for the day to visit a museum instead. But since this is my last completely free day, I grabbed my umbrella (so the investment made in the first week here in Verona was worth it after all XD) and made my way to the train station. After wandering through Verona in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet, I was determined to continue this journey. And indeed in the city where Romeo was banished. Does anyone guess where I headed?

On the train, I enjoyed a croissant with pistachio cream and a cappuccino, and before I knew it, I had arrived in Mantova. By the way, it was sunny! So nothing stood in the way of an extensive exploration tour.

I wandered from the cathedral to various Renaissance churches to expansive squares surrounded by many cafés. Along the way, there were plenty of benches for reading breaks and, of course, for admiring the wonderful architecture. I also strolled along the three man-made lakes: Lago Superiore, Lago di Mezzo, and Lago Inferiore, letting the wind blow through my hair and marveling at the gigantic water lily pads I had ever seen. They were truly enormous!

On the way back, my growing hunger needed to be urgently satisfied, and the nearest gelateria was just what I needed, as my hunger was becoming uncomfortable. With an ice cream in hand, my smile returned. As the clouds slowly gathered, I strolled to the train station and took the next train back to now sunny Verona.

Now just one last big question remains: pizza or pasta? Making the decision is always hard for me. But it will be good either way - Buon appetito!