Bread and Tulips

Rosalba Barletta, a housewife from Pescara, Italy, becomes stranded during a family vacation. Instead of waiting for her controlling husband, she bravely decides to hitchhike her way back home.

Rather than heading straight home, Rosalba makes an impulsive decision to visit the enchanting city of Venice. Drawn in by its beauty, she quickly immerses herself in the city's charm despite her dwindling funds.

Upon arrival in Venice, Rosalba realizes she needs a place to stay. She finds temporary accommodation with the elegant restaurant maître d'hôtel, Fernando Girasole, who speaks Italian in a notably literary manner.

As Rosalba settles into her new life, she forms a genuine friendship with Grazia, a holistic masseuse who lives next door. This friendship becomes a source of support and comfort during her transition.

Rosalba secures a job at a small flower shop owned by Fermo, a grumpy yet kind anarchist. Over time, her charming personality wins him over, leading to a warm and endearing working relationship.

With her newfound independence and friendships, Rosalba experiences a sense of joy and freedom she hadn’t felt before. She begins to embrace her life in Venice, finding happiness in the small things.

Meanwhile, Rosalba's husband sends Costantino, a bumbling plumber, to search for her. Despite his clumsy demeanor, he inadvertently ruins a situation while also becoming enchanted by Grazia's charm.

After stumbling upon Grazia, Costantino decides to contact Rosalba's husband. He reveals that he intends to quit the search for Rosalba, showcasing a bizarre blend of loyalty and infatuation.

As Rosalba adapts to her new surroundings, she finds herself developing romantic feelings for Fernando Girasole. Their relationship starts to bloom through shared moments and quiet gestures filled with underlying affection.

Just when Rosalba begins to find happiness, she is manipulated by her husband's lover, a family friend. They convince her to return home by claiming her son is in trouble due to her absence, which weighs heavily on Rosalba's heart.

Heartbroken, Rosalba reluctantly leaves her newfound life in Venice, returning to Pescara with a heavy heart. On her arrival, she finds that her son is perfectly fine and there was never any danger, deepening her sorrow.

Back in Venice, Fernando Girasole feels an overwhelming sense of longing for Rosalba. He decides to take Fermo's van and travel to Pescara to express his feelings for her directly.

When Fernando arrives in Pescara, he finally confesses his love for Rosalba, making his true feelings known. This heartfelt declaration stirs something deep within her, reigniting her hopes.

Moved by Fernando's confession, Rosalba decides to return to Venice for good. She embarks on this new chapter, once again choosing happiness and love over her prior responsibilities.

Accompanied by her youngest son, Rosalba steps back into Venice, ready to embrace both love and life. This signifies a fresh start for her, filled with hope and possibilities in the beloved city.