Honestly, you are on the right track already with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S. I picked mine up right before a trip to Portugal last year and I have been so happy with it. Usually, I am the guy swapping between three different primes, but I barely took this one off my camera the whole time. Italy is gonna have those narrow streets where you need 24mm, but then you will see a cool detail on a statue and want that 120mm reach. I was super satisfied with how it handled the light in those old cathedrals too. Even at f/4, the Z5 sensor handles the ISO bump well. Here is why it works so well for travel:

• The constant aperture means your exposure doesnt jump around when you zoom in.
• Its way sharper than any kit lens I have ever used.
• The close focusing is actually insane for shots of pasta or street details. The weight is pretty manageable too, which is huge since you mentioned you hate carrying gear. I spent all day walking around Lisbon with just a small shoulder bag and had zero complaints by the end of the day. If you can find a refurbished one or a good sale, it should be right near your budget. Its basically the only lens you need for a trip like that.

Building on the earlier suggestion, if $900 is your hard limit, maybe check these:

• Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR for versatility
• Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S used for a steal

^ This. Also, be careful with the budget because that lens usually retails for $1,099. I analyzed the MTF charts before my Florence trip and the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S is significantly sharper than the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR.

• Constant f/4 prevents ISO spikes in dark churches
• ARNEO coating kills lens flare from the bright sun
• Weighs 630g... might want a good strap Try finding a used copy to stay under $900.