So I'm from the US and I want to see Europe for like 6 or so months

[miami32]

So this year at the end of August I want to go to Europe. I'm considering moving to Italy for say 6 months to a year or at least just traveling Europe for a decent while not just a month. I assume I have to get a passport and what not. What else do I have to do? I have a decent amount of cash put away. I mean I wouldn't even mind considering just staying in one of these places if I found it nice enough. Any suggestions on places to go. I also hate flying so if anyone could tell me what the flights are like and so on. Thanks in advance.