My parents surprised me with a cycling trip to Italy, focusing on the art and architecture of northern Italy. At first, I thought it would be boring, but I was proven wrong.

On our first day, we arrived in Mantua, a city surrounded by three lakes. The center of the city had four main squares and two grand palaces, some dating back to medieval times. We visited the Palazzo Ducale, once the largest palace in Europe, where the ruling Gonzaga family lived for almost 400 years. Inside, we saw incredible frescoes painted by Renaissance artist Andrea Mantegna in 1474. One fresco depicted the Gonzaga family, with Ludovico and Barbara Gonzaga and their children in one arch. The figures looked so real, and when we looked up, the ceiling was painted to resemble an open sky.

The next day, we embarked on a long bike ride. We picked up our bikes, and I opted for an e-bike. Our bags were transported by car, making the journey easier. We headed north towards Lake Garda, passing through a nature reserve and along the river. The scenery was beautiful, and we stayed at a charming family-run hotel in Borghetto.

On the third day, we explored the village on a circular route. We followed a cycle track through a park with a lake and even a maze. It was fun trying to find our way out, and we spotted deer along the way. We enjoyed a picnic in the park as well.

The following day, we cycled north towards Lake Garda, passing through orchards and vineyards. We stayed in a town with medieval walls on the southern edge of the lake. After lunch, we headed east to a village near Verona.

On the fifth day, we arrived in Verona and prepared to explore the city.

Verona was incredible! We needed more than a day to see everything. The Roman amphitheater, known as the arena, was a highlight. Built in the first century, it once hosted gladiator contests for 20,000 spectators. Nowadays, it hosts open-air opera performances. We also visited “Juliet’s house,” a popular spot for those familiar with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Although Juliet was fictional, people believe that standing under her balcony and making a wish about love will come true. I didn’t partake in that, as I’m not a romantic. Instead, I chose to explore Verona further, declining my mom’s offer to go shopping.

Overall, the trip turned out to be much more exciting than I initially thought. The combination of cycling, exploring palaces, admiring frescoes, and experiencing the rich history of Verona made it a memorable adventure.