Italy is a really particular, extremely various and magical nation the place I feel you might be simply as more likely to discover magnificence in a quiet, cobbled backstreet or conventional trattoria as in its gorgeous seashores or extraordinary countryside.
I’ve lived in Italy for a few years and like to share my favorite locations. Some are well-known, and others are much less so…
1. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre’s rugged, rustic, however breathtaking magnificence completely sums up why Italy is so revered as a journey vacation spot!
Situated on the gorgeous Italian Riviera shoreline, 5 brightly colored medieval villages cling jaggedly – and nearly impossibly – to the inhospitable coastal rocks.
It’s such an vital place; it was declared a Unesco World Heritage Web site in 1997. I recommend meandering across the slender streets, wandering the traditional vineyards clinging to steep terraces, and heading for a pesto pasta lunch (a regional speciality) at one of many native trattorias! Pure bliss!
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Might to September) is good for climbing and exploring.
My highlights…
Having fun with a hike alongside the Blue Path which ignored the ocean and took me to 5 Insta-worthy villages!
Spending a day at Cinque Terre’s solely sandy seaside, Monterosso al Mare.
Happening a ship sundown tour and exploring the shoreline while watching the solar go down.
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2. Lake Como
Famously house to George Clooney’s Italian villa, Lake Como is the third largest lake within the nation and a scorching spot for vacationers and locals alike.
Historically, Lake Como has been often called a spot for rich individuals and political entities to retreat sometimes, however I’d nonetheless suggest a go to to anybody!
Lake Como is house to a number of castles and opulent lodging. If it is advisable to get across the lake, its state-of-the-art water transport ferry system has been an vital a part of the lake since its induction in 1826.
Greatest time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) supply delicate climate and fewer vacationers.
My highlights…
Visiting one of the crucial iconic cathedrals in Italy, The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which additionally provides breathtaking panoramic views.
Exploring the museums and studying in regards to the historical past of Lake Como.
Having a enjoyable time out at Lake Como Journey Park within the mountains surrounded by nature.
Going boating on the gorgeous lake, it’s severely stunning!
3. Tuscany Countryside
I truthfully assume there isn’t a different place just like the Tuscan countryside on earth. I extremely suggest driving away from the cities and heading into a few of the most extraordinary surroundings on the earth!
It is a really magical place the place you’ll discover impossibly picturesque rolling hills and scenic drives the place the odd roaming wild hog or two will all of a sudden come into sight.
Additionally, anticipate breathtaking sunflower fields, olive groves which have been right here for a whole lot of years, medieval ruins and a few of the most unbelievable vineyards on the earth.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are good for nice temperatures and exquisite landscapes.
My highlights…
Taking a visit to the pure scorching springs in Bagno Vignoni and bathing within the beautiful waters.
Exploring the romantic vineyards in Chianti and going wine tasting.
Reserving a scorching air balloon tour in Lucca and having fun with the breathtaking views of the beautiful landscapes.
Visiting the leaning tower of Pisa and capturing an Insta-worthy shot subsequent to the well-known landmark.
My lodge selection for Tuscan Countryside – Il Castro Luxurious Residences San Gimignano
4. Camogli, Liguria
Within the northern portion of the nation, the peninsula of Portofino homes small fishing villages. Among the many most notable and well-known villages is Camogli in Liguria.
This small port maintains a modest inhabitants of round 5,500 individuals and stays protected inside the Portofino Marine Protected Space.
Strolling by {the marketplace} or basking within the solar on Comogli’s coast is a welcomed exercise for vacationers and locals alike.
I like to recommend bringing your digicam and taking many photos of each nook and cranny of this endearing and picturesque a part of the coast!
Greatest time to go to: Might to September for heat climate, good for seaside actions.
My favorite highlights
Tasting scrumptious Italian dishes at Ostaia da ö Sigu.
Enjoyable on the Camogli’s rocky seaside and having fun with the glistening solar.
Renting a speedboat with a skipper and exploring the attractive gems solely reachable by water (the Pure Park of Portofino and Paradiso Gulf).
Taking an E-bike tour alongside the gorgeous shoreline and discovering church buildings and castles.
5. Calabria
Situated within the nation’s south, Calabria is a part of the land separating the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Ionian Sea and the sun-baked toe of Italy’s boot!
Some sights on this nation can appear to be a dressed-up present put in place for vacationers’ enjoyment, however that’s not one thing you’ll find in Calabria.
This portion of the nation is quintessentially Italian, and I’m all the time charmed by it. Calabria has lovingly escaped the vacationer recreation to supply an unspoiled and seemingly untouched view of basic Italy.
If you wish to see Italians as they’re somewhat than a scripted rendition, I personally assume Calabria is the place to go!
Greatest time to go to: Summer season (June to September) for the seashores, although spring and fall supply fewer crowds.
My must-do highlights…
Exploring the Pollino Nationwide Park, discovering the magnificent Raganello Canyon, and strolling alongside streams, bridges and gorges.
Visiting one of the crucial prestigious monuments in Calabria, the traditional Aragonese fortress of Le Castella.
Having fun with the clear blue waters at Tropea.
6. Lake Garda
I feel this is likely one of the most jaw-dropping locations on the earth; this can be a massive and impossibly picturesque lake nestled in Northern Italy surrounded by the gorgeous fortress city of Sirmione, the resort city of Riva del Garda, and plenty of charming and laid-back villages in between.
Head additional North and get to the well-known Dolomites Mountain vary.
I extremely suggest boating, wind-surfing, consuming on the many charming and cosmopolitan eating places, and usually taking within the fantastic vibe and jaw-dropping surroundings.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Might to September) for water sports activities and out of doors actions.
My private highlights…
Bathing in thermal springs in Garda Thermal Park.
Having fun with a household day at Gardaland Park, which options over 30 thrilling rides, show-stopping musical performances and spectacular mild reveals.
Exploring the charming and picturesque city of Sirmione house to a singular drawbridge entrance.
Biking across the lake and taking within the breathtaking views on a path suspended 50 metres above the water.
7. The Dolomites
When you head additional north from Lake Garda, you’ll discover a few of Europe’s most spectacular mountain surroundings. Situated in northeastern Italy, with beautiful surroundings and exquisite resorts apart, there may be additionally loads to do.
Head there in winter and discover well-coordinated ski networks, the legendary circuit Sella Ronda, and loads of individuals who cross-country snowboarding and snowboarding. Go to in summer time and go climbing amongst gorgeous views and contemporary mountain air.
Greatest time to go to: Summer season (June to September) for climbing; winter (December to March) for snowboarding.
My private highlights…
Taking a hike across the spectacular Tre Cime di Lavaredo, well-known for its three magnificent and distinctive peaks.
Capturing an Instagrammable shot at Lago di Carezza the place the panoramic backdrop of the Latemar mountains displays onto the lake.
Having fun with the tradition and historical past that the Dolomites have to supply with a go to to Bolzano.
8. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
I really like this space! Essentially the most well-known space is the resort city of Sorrento, the place you’ll discover the addictive liqueur limoncello and, in fact, loads of nice wine.
Town will also be used as a base to go to Pompeii, which was buried by Mount Vesuvius’ volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
Additional alongside the ruggedly stunning coast, you’ll find the impossibly picturesque and prosperous city of Positano and the small, fairly city of Amalfi. The world provides one of many world’s best coastal drives, so make sure you rent a automotive when you can; Fiat 500s are all the time an apt selection!
I’d additionally suggest taking a ship from Sorrento to the romantic island of Capri, the place you possibly can see the beautiful Blue Grotto, a sea cave flooded with good blue or emerald mild.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Might to October) for delicate climate and avoiding summer time crowds.
My private highlights…
Exploring the picturesque Outdated City of Sorrento with its stunning pastel-coloured homes.
Taking a visit alongside the Amalfi Coast, which is well-known for being one of the crucial gorgeous coastlines on the earth and overlooking crystal clear turquoise waters.
Mountain climbing the four-mile stretch of the Path of Gods which supplies you with probably the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Shoreline.
Having fun with watching a sundown over the bay of Naples while listening to the musical delights of a busker in Villa Communale Park.
My lodge selection for Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – La Casa di Peppe Visitor Home & Villa
9. Puglia
Puglia is situated within the southern area of Italy, on the heel of Italy’s boot. Initially ignored by vacationers for many years, it has turn into fairly the trendy place to take a trip in recent times!
Right here, you possibly can anticipate hill cities crammed with fairly white ‘Trulli’ homes, centuries-old farmland and a spectacular Mediterranean shoreline.
This area is ideal for these wishing to style actual Italy and the fabulous blue sea and wonderful sandy seashores.
Except for the numerous Italian expertise, you’ll produce other causes to go to this area, together with the wonderful regional delicacies, picturesque olive groves, and luxurious inexperienced orchards.
Greatest time to go to: Might to September for seaside visits and delicate climate.
My private highlights…
Wandering across the historic metropolis of Leece and admiring the beautiful Baroque structure constituted of distinctive stone.
Eating on the Masseria Il Frantoio and sampling its ever-evolving menu of genuine Italian dishes.
Visiting the enduring landmark of Sant at Torre Sant’Andrea and having fun with a swim by the archway in picturesque waters.
Taking a scorching air balloon journey overlooking the pure panorama of Gravina, which was crammed with canyons, hills and stone homes.
10. Verona Metropolis
Verona is a beautiful, relaxed metropolis well-known for Shakespeare’s story of Romeo and Juliet. It has the third-largest Roman Area in Italy, and I extremely suggest catching an opera throughout your go to.
UNESCO has awarded town a World Heritage website standing due to its city construction and structure, which embody Roman stays and historic castles.
As you possibly can think about, Verona is a really romantic metropolis, so when you take a companion, you by no means know, they may find yourself proposing! The Italian lakes are accessible from Verona, Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore, a few of the most well-known.
The mountain lakes supply classically stunning pictures of this nation and are flanked by sleepy cobblestone villages and secluded gardens.
Greatest time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) supply delicate climate.
My private highlights…
Climbing as much as the highest of Torre dei Lamberti and seeing gorgeous views throughout town.
Having fun with a purchasing journey at Piazza Delle Erbe which can also be an ideal out of doors eating spot on a sunny day.
Taking a stroll alongside the gorgeous Ponte Pietra bridge which connects town to Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro.
Wandering across the magical Giardino Gusti Gardens situated within the grounds of the historic palace.
11. Venice
Venice is likely one of the most well-known cities in Italy, and it’s constructed on water. It’s additionally typically cited as one of many world’s most romantic journey locations. In the course of town, you’ll discover the grand sq. ‘Piazza San Marco,’ the place the much more spectacular basilica resides.
When you’re a tradition seeker, you’ll be spoilt for selection right here; Venice has the world’s most inventive masterpieces per sq. kilometre, and quite a few church buildings, museums, and palaces are value visiting.
One other spotlight is the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), an enclosed bridge that crosses the Rio di Palazzo.
When you’re a romantic and need to journey in a gondola, bear in mind to take loads of cash—you can be charged a small fortune for the privilege.
Greatest time to go to: April to June and September to October to keep away from peak vacationer seasons.
My highlights…
Experiencing a singular method of getting round by taking one of many well-known gondola rides by town.
Tasting an array of contemporary flavours on the Mercati di Rialto and see how the native Italians create their signature dishes.
Climbing the spiral staircase of Scala Contarini Del Bovolo which has a viewpoint on the prime overlooking town.
12. Bologna
Bologna is a shocking metropolis identified for its magnificence, left-wing politics, wealth, and, most significantly, delicacies. It’s the capital of the Emilia-Romagna area in northern Italy. When you arrive by practice, transfer swiftly away from the station to absorb town’s most stunning websites.
Many arcades can help you discover town even when it’s raining. I like to recommend wandering across the backstreets till you come across one of many many stunning squares the place you possibly can cease for a restaurant or gelato.
Bologna additionally boasts the oldest college on the earth, based in 1088. Most individuals go to town to find its famend culinary delights, which embody tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne, tortellini served in broth, and fried gnocchi.
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall (April to June, September to October) for probably the most nice climate.
My private highlights…
Viewing the spectacular artwork at Bologna Nationwide Gallery which featured work courting again so far as the thirteenth century.
Haggling for an eclectic vary of things in a energetic environment on the historic markets at La Piazzola.
Indulging in a selfmade tortellini in broth at Trattoria da Me.
Exploring one of many coolest locations within the metropolis, Ghetto Ebraico which was crammed with purchasing, bars and eating places.
13. Florence
Florence is an impressive and engaging place and an artwork lover’s dream. A well-liked metropolis nestled within the rolling hills of the Tuscany area, Florence has loads to supply its many guests.
For starters, there are quite a few museums crammed with well-known work and sculptures and two locations I like to recommend are the Pitti Palace and the Uffizi.
The latter hosts works by Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo and receives roughly 1.6 million vacationers a 12 months (you need to guide earlier than you go, or you’ll sadly face a protracted wait).
Additionally, take your time to discover the remainder of Tuscany. Often called the Renaissance nation, the area provides a few of the world’s most stunning and romantic pure surroundings.
The extraordinary countryside and shoreline preserve the relaxed vacationers completely satisfied, and the ever-flowing provide of nice wine and delicacies will definitely please the meals connoisseurs.
Greatest time to go to: April to June and September to October for fewer vacationers and fulfilling temperatures.
My highlights…
Climbing 414 steps to the highest of Giotto’s Bell Tower and photographing the magnificent views overlooking town.
Having fun with a day of purchasing at San Lorenzo out of doors market which was crammed with distinctive items and souvenirs.
Ending off a day of exploring by watching the sundown forged a sensational mild throughout town at Piazzale Michelangelo.
My lodge selection for Florence – 25hours Lodge
14. Rome
It’s unattainable to tour Italy with out visiting its well-known capital, Rome. This really unbelievable metropolis is stuffed with historical past spanning over twenty centuries—you could possibly say Rome is the world’s greatest open-air museum.
As you wander the streets, the structure will go away you in awe, so pack your digicam.
There are numerous websites to find, probably the most well-known being the Coliseum, the Vatican, St. Peter’s, the Trevi Fountain and my private favorite, the Pantheon.
You in all probability received’t get to see all of them in a weekend nevertheless it gives you a cause to return! Rome’s cafe tradition can also be world-famous, and for an actual Rome expertise, select from one in every of many piazzas and watch the world go by with (an costly) expresso.
Greatest time to go to: April to June and September to October for cooler temperatures.
My private highlights
Admiring the structural structure on the historic Colosseum, one in every of Italy’s most iconic landmarks.
Strolling up the 135 Spanish Steps and capturing an Insta-worthy shot between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti.
Making a want on the most well-known fountain within the Europe, Trevi Fountain.
15. Sardinia
This massive island off the coast of Italy is a favorite vacation spot for Italians and wealthy footballers. More often than not, it’s a quiet and enjoyable island, however standard areas can get very busy in the summertime, so you have to guide early to remain at the perfect locations. To succeed in Sardinia, you possibly can sail or fly into Alghero, Cagliari, or the port city of Olbia.
The island is gorgeous, and in comparison with many vacation island resorts in Europe, it stays comparatively unspoiled.
No high-rise concrete inns are right here; even the resort areas are surprisingly tasteful. I’d personally suggest Sant’antioco and San Pietro, as these are probably the most distant and conventional areas.
Sardinia’s shoreline is world-renowned, so that you received’t have to go looking far for superb seashores and clear water wherever you keep.
Greatest time to go to: June to September for seaside actions, whereas spring provides milder temperatures.
My highlights…
Taking a ship tour which was a stunning strategy to discover the gorgeous shoreline.
Visiting the petite city of Bosa which was crammed with engaging colourful structure.
Spending the day enjoyable on a Sardinia seaside and exploring the hidden coves.
16. Sicily
The biggest island within the Mediterranean Sea makes a superb vacation vacation spot. Like Sardinia, it has glorious seashores and fantastic delicacies, solely far cheaper.
Additionally, you will have the posh of going island-hopping—the Aegadian Islands, Aeolian Islands, and Pantelleria Lampedusa are all close by and accessible. Sicily is a conventional and rustic island with a wealthy tradition and a potent mixture of structure, arts, delicacies, literature, and music.
Right here, you possibly can sit on seashores, go to archaeological websites, or pattern the domestically caught fish. Be sure to embody a go to to the Selinunte, an historic constructing containing 5 temples centred on an acropolis.
The east coast of Sicily is extra developed and tourist-friendly, and the west coast is extra untouched.
As you journey down the ladder, you’ll be amazed at how pleasant the Sicilian individuals are and the way happy they’re that you simply selected to go to Sicily.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Might to October) for seaside visits and nice climate.
My favourite highlights…
Visiting the petite fishing city of Cefalù, which was crammed with vibrant boats, and taking a dip within the picturesque turquoise waters.
Discovering Mount Etna volcano on an organised tour was an unbelievable expertise!
Watching the sundown by the white limestone cliff of Scala dei Turchi which is legendary for its distinctive form.
17. Capri
A favorite with honeymooners and well-heeled vacationers, this resort island has attracted guests for the reason that Roman Instances and has maintained its gorgeous magnificence.
It’s a small island in Italy’s Bay of Naples and is house to rugged landscapes, yacht-filled coves, upscale inns and loads of boutique retailers stocking the whole lot, from Italian wine to designer style.
You’ll be able to’t go away with out visiting the Blue Grotto, one of the crucial stunning locations in Italy. It’s a pure darkish cavern the place the ocean is a shocking electrical blue (truly daylight passing by an underwater cave).
Greatest time to go to: Might to September for heat, sunny days.
My favourite highlights…
Taking a chairlift to the height of Mount Solaro and capturing the breathtaking views that attain so far as the Calabria mountains.
Having a romantic dinner on the conventional Italian restaurant La Capannina.
Visiting the Grotta Azzurra, the place the solar displays an uncommon blue glow all through the cave.
Exploring the spectacular sea cliffs surrounding the island by boat.
18. Portofino
Portofino is one in every of my favorite under-the-radar gems! This picturesque fishing village is likely one of the most well-known vacation resorts on the Italian Riviera. This vacation spot is good for a romantic escape with the one you love!
Portofino provides tranquillity, charming structure, and true nature. This stunning village has been a prime spot for the wealthy and well-known for the reason that Fifties.
Greatest time to go to: April to September for out of doors exploration.
My highlights…
Window purchasing on the luxurious boutiques on the marina entrance and hidden down slender alleys.
Taking a motorcycle tour and absorbing the panoramic views of the Gulf.
Visiting the open-air museum and admiring the up to date paintings and the Mediterranean Sea on the similar time.
Experiencing the well-known diving spot close to San Fruttuoso Seashore and discovering the distinctive bronze statue underwater.
19. Milan
That is the Italian metropolis to go to for purchasing, style, and exquisite (and really well-dressed) individuals!. It’s a cosmopolitan, fast-paced metropolis that draws designers, artists, photographers, and fashions worldwide. There are additionally many different causes to go to.
Folks apart, Milan can also be well-known for its extraordinary structure, artwork, historical past, and meals and for its love of soccer—its two essential golf equipment have made town one of the crucial football-loving locations in Europe.
There may be additionally nice structure, together with the Duomo di Milano, glorious artwork galleries (Milan is house to one of the crucial well-known Renaissance work in historical past—Leonardo da Vinci’s The Final Supper), and unbelievable retailers, operas, bars, and eating places.
Milan is kind of the foodie metropolis and is legendary for its typical Italian dishes like Risotto, minestrone and polenta, and I’d recommend attempting all of them!
Greatest time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) for cooler climate.
My private highlights…
Watching a soccer match at San Siro Stadium, one of many largest in Europe, and be a part of the roaring environment.
Exploring the Sforzesco Fortress which featured a number of museums and a lovely courtyard.
Spending a day purchasing within the style capital of the world on the Golden Triangle which is crammed with luxurious manufacturers.
Wandering by the inventive avenue artwork in Isola and capturing pictures for my Instagram.
20. Elba Island
Simply north of the Tuscan Archipelago sits Elba Island, it’s remained a reasonably under-the-radar vacation spot in Italy nevertheless it’s an more and more fashionable place to vacation.
Round 30,000 individuals populate the beautiful Italian island, however that quantity considerably will increase throughout its tourist-filled summer time months.
Elba Island is situated in Italy’s Archipelago Toscano Nationwide Park and is called the nation’s third-largest island. Sardinia and Sicily are the one bigger islands in Italy. Cavo Seashore and Spiaggia Delle Tombe are among the many hottest and picturesque seashores on Elba Island.
Like most islands, snorkelling and diving are standard vacationer actions.
Greatest time to go to: June to September for seaside actions and heat temperatures.
My favourite highlights…
Exploring one of the crucial historic buildings situated on Elba Island, the Fortress of Volterraio the place I noticed breathtaking views of the Gulf of Portoferraio.
Experiencing a sundown boat tour across the island while taking within the magnificent surroundings and having fun with an aperitif created from domestically grown lemons.
Mountain climbing as much as the Capanne Mount, the best peak of the island and capturing the panaromanic views.
Kayaking round stunning island and taking a swim within the crystal-clear waters.
21. Lake Orta
Lake Garda and Como are probably the most well-known lakes in Italy, however if you’d like extra leisure than a tourist-ridden vacation spot, Lake Orta is the place to go!
Locals are likely to gravitate to Lake Orta when they should recharge. On the centre of Lake Orta is a small island, Isola San Giulio, house to a century-old monastery and basilica.
Take a ferry to the island and absorb the fantastic and tranquil environment!
Greatest time to go to: April to June or September to October for delicate climate.
My private highlights…
Slowing down and having fun with a stroll across the lake which is surrounded by a set of Insta-worthy picture spots!
Having fun with the seaside golf equipment situated alongside the sandy shores and swimming in one of many cleanest lakes in Europe!
Exploring the well-known Villa Taranto gardens and admiring the colourful colors of the spectacular flower beds.
22. Ischia Island
Situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ischia Island is likely one of the many volcanically shaped islands. Situated about 30 km from Naples, vacationers journey to this unbelievably stunning island as it’s the largest of the Phlegreen Islands in Italy. To get out to Ischia Island, guests should take a ferry.
Two ferries convey individuals to the island. One takes 1.5 hours whereas the opposite is only one hour journey time, so select the fitting one in your wants.
As soon as there, I like to recommend simply kicking again and having fun with the fantastic thing about this island whereas watching the daring cliff jumpers!
