My husband and I are sitting down to plan our honeymoon in Italy. We are spending approximately 1 week in Southern France visiting my family, but will then hop a train or plane to Italy. We will be in Italy approximately 2 weeks-roughly mid-August until the 28th. Our only plan as of right now is to fly Out of Rome on the 28th.... so we must end there and are planning the in between. Any suggestions on routes (how long to stay where), (any particular must-stay hotels/must-eat restaurants, must-see sites)-all appreciated. Also, anything that can be skipped...also helpful.

We are thinking something along the lines of Milan(Lake Como)--Venice--Cinque Terre--Florence--Siena--Rome...

Seems a bit of an aggressive Itinerary, but we are afraid to miss out and are realistic that we may never get back...

Also, any other tips/tricks would be greatly appreciated... We have been reading the "Rick Steves" book that was lent to us by a friend, but we love off-the beaten-path type things too and though we would like to see the major sites, we would also love to explore the "local" gems that only locals can suggest.

Thank you for any help anyone can give.