Awe-inspiring architecture, captivating cities, cinematic landscapes and mouth-watering local cuisine make Italy one of the most enchanting destinations in Europe. From charm-soaked cities like Rome and Venice to off-the-beaten-track destinations like Alberobello and Castelmezzano, it’s easy to live “la dolce vita” in Italy.
Things to do in Italy
Nowhere captures the natural beauty of Italy like the Tuscan countryside. A road trip around this cinematic region takes you to postcard-perfect towns, beautiful wineries and storybook villas. You’ll love stumbling across hidden gems like Barga, an ancient medieval village perched high on a Tuscan hilltop.
The Italians take enormous pride and pleasure in their national cuisine. Beyond pizza and pasta, each region has its own unique specialties. Slice into a perfectly cooked Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak in Tuscany, devour a bowl of aubergine “caponata” in Sicily and savour “orecchiette” pasta served with broccoli, red pepper flakes and a sprinkling of ricotta in Puglia.
With more than 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit, Italy is a historic treasure trove. Marvel at ancient monuments in Rome, admire evocative frescoes in Padua and discover one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world in Pompeii.
Sunseekers flock to soak up the beach scene on Italy’s Mediterranean coast. Sardinia will captivate you with powder-white beaches and azure waters, with a handful of Bronze Age sites thrown in for good measure. On the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find gorgeous coved hemmed in by soaring cliffs.
In winter, Italy transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland. World-class resorts such as Cortina d'Ampezzo and Val Gardena put you in the heart of the mighty Dolomites. In summer, the mountains offer some of the best hiking in Europe, with trails taking you to flower-filled alpine meadows.
Getting around Italy
Italy is well connected by a national train network that connects most towns and cities. Public transport is excellent in all major cities. In Venice, gondolas and ferries are the main forms of transportation, while Milan relies heavily on trams. Rental cars are a great way to explore Italy at your own pace.