Where to begin...

CaliSunn

I know it's early, but this is what my FI is most excited about so I wanted to at least research a little asap  

We'll be going to Italy, but I have no idea where to start! Have you girls been? How much should I expect to spend?

TIA!

browneyedbride7

I LOVED ITALY when I went a couple of years ago.  I did a Trafalgar tour through Italy.  Included Rome, Venice, Florence/Tuscany and Assisi.  My family and I went a day earlier than the group tour to get adjusted and wander the city of Rome.  Summer months are extremely busy and filled with tons of tourists.  If you want something a bit calmer and more relaxing and not feeling rushed, you might want to think about going in off-season.  I would recommend 3-4 days in Rome, 2-3 days in Venice and 1-2 days in Florence.

Chasity08

I absolutely adored Rome and Florence when I went. I definitely second the PP's suggestion of going in the off season though. Soooo many tourists. Plus, I went in late May to Rome...that was the only place I got a ridiculous sunburn. It's very open so the sun was a killer. But if you're cool with the sun then that's not a concern for you. However, if your skin is as white as a piece of paper as mine is...this could be a valid concern ;-]

GL! I'm sure your honeymoon will be AMAZING!

alithebride

how much is WAY too broad of a question. that depends on when, where and how you go and for how long. i suggest you set a budget and then work back into it.

sunshine_day_dreams

I think the place for you to start would be with a good guide book - I recommend Rick Steves - and read about each city and region.  Then decide based on how much time you have where you want to go, and how much time to spend in each place.  From there, start your research on hotels (or apartments), sites, etc.

We did a month in Europe - including 2 weeks in Italy - for under $10k and we didn't really make that much of an effort to cut corners on costs, so it can be done for much cheaper.  I agree with PP that you should set a budget that is comfortable for you and work backwards from there.

We were married 09/05 and September was a great time to be in Italy.  It was warm enough to still do the beach stuff on the Amalfi Coast, but still cool enough to not be miserable in the big cities.