7 days in Italy: Rome -> Lake Como -> Positano
Rome – Busy and hot, but exploring early in the morning and around sunset made all the difference. Visiting the Colosseum in the evening light was definitely a highlight. The sheer amount of history in this city makes it an incredible experience.
Lake Como – A great change of pace: a much more relaxed atmosphere, stunning mountain-lake views, and scenic ferry rides between the towns. I had heard a lot about it before, but I didn't truly get the hype until I actually went there. Absolutely stunning place.
Positano – Incredibly picturesque, though very crowded in peak season. Walking through the narrow streets and catching the sunset views from the cliffs was unforgettable. That said, I'd say it's best as a day trip for a couple of hours - the town is beautiful but quite small, and prices are very high.
I traveled by high-speed trains (with air conditioning!) – it was a lovely experience.