Italy

Rome

Rome (Italian and Latin: Roma ), the 'Eternal City', is the capital and largest city of Italy and of the Lazio region. It's the famed city of the Roman Empire, the Seven Hills, La Dolce Vita, the Vatican City and Three Coins in the Fountain. Rome, as a millennia-long centre of power, culture and religion, was the centre of one of the greatest civilisations ever, and has exerted a huge influence over the world in its circa 2500 years of existence.

Venice

Venice (Italian: Venezia ; Venetian: Venexia ) is a sanctuary on a lagoon that is virtually the same as it was 600 years ago, which adds to the fascinating character. Venice has decayed since its heyday and suffers from overtourism, but the romantic charm remains. It is also known as the birthplace of composers Tomaso Albinoni and Antonio Vivaldi. Venice and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage site. It used to be an independent republic, and remains one of Italy's most important cities, with a quarter million inhabitants.

Florence

Florence (Italian: Firenze ) is the capital of the region of Tuscany in Italy, with a population of about 366,500. The city is a cultural, artistic and architectural gem, and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence was the home to powerful families, creative geniuses and scientific masterminds who left their legacies in the city's many museums and art galleries. The city also has a very rich literary history, being the birthplace of the famous poet Dante, and standard Italian today is primarily based on the dialect of Tuscan spoken in Florence.

Duomo and Florence Cathedral

Uffizi Gallery

Ponte Vecchio

Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens

San Lorenzo Market and Leather Goods

Milan

Milan (Italian: Milano ; Milanese: Milan) is financially the most important city in Italy, and home to the Borsa Italiana stock exchange. It is the second most populous city proper in the country, but sits at the centre of Italy's largest urban and metropolitan area. While not considered as beautiful as some Italian cities, having been greatly destroyed by Second World War bomb raids, the city has rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan business capital. In essence, for a tourist, what makes Milan interesting compared to other places is that the city is truly more about the lifestyle of enjoying worldly pleasures: a paradise for shopping, football, opera, and nightlife. Milan remains the marketplace for Italian fashion – fashion aficionados, supermodels and international paparazzi descend upon the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs.

Pisa

Pisa is a city in Tuscany, Italy, best known for its world-famous leaning tower. But the tower isn't the only thing to see – there are other architectural and artistic marvels in this beautiful city. The half-hour walk from the Campo dei Miracoli to the train station runs through a pedestrian street with many interesting sights, shops, and restaurants. The best way to visit Pisa is walking the streets, as the city centre is small and cosy, and enjoying the sight and the atmosphere.

Naples

Naples (Italian: Napoli ; Neapolitan: Napule ) is a city in Southern Italy, an ancient port on the Mediterranean sea. With just short of a million citizens, is the third most populous municipality. Metropolitan Naples is Italy's second most populous metropolitan area.

Verona

Verona is an historic city with a population of about a quarter of a million in north-eastern Italy's Veneto region. It's most famous as the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Pompei

Pompeii, located near Naples in Italy, is an archaeological marvel frozen in time. Buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, it provides a unique glimpse into ancient Roman life. Explore remarkably preserved ruins, including homes, theaters, and baths. Witness colorful frescoes, mosaic floors, and haunting plaster casts of the volcano's victims. Immerse yourself in history and walk the ancient streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a captivating window into the past.

Bologna

Bologna (Emilian: Bulåggna ) is a beautiful and historic city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northeast Italy. It has the oldest university in the Western world, a lively student population, excellent food, a striking brick terracotta-roofed cityscape, and lots to see and do. The city itself has a population just under 395,000 in 2020. Until 2015 it was part of a "Province of Bologna" but this was absorbed into a metropolitan area, population 1,017,000. This page therefore covers the entire metropolis, with the exception of Imola, described separately.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a charming coastal town situated in southwestern Italy's Campania region. Perched atop cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento offers breathtaking views of the sea and Mount Vesuvius. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, lemon groves, and colorful buildings, the town exudes a tranquil and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can wander through narrow streets, indulge in delicious Italian cuisine, and explore historical landmarks like the 14th-century Chiesa di San Francesco and the ancient Roman ruins of nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum. Sorrento also serves as a gateway to the stunning Amalfi Coast, making it a perfect base for discovering the beauty of this enchanting region.

Como

Como, Italy is a picturesque town located in the Lombardy region, nestled at the southern tip of Lake Como. Surrounded by rolling hills and the majestic Alps, Como is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The town's scenic waterfront, dotted with charming villas and gardens, is a perfect spot to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Como's historic center boasts narrow cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops, providing a delightful atmosphere for leisurely strolls. Visitors can explore the impressive Como Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, and the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to the inventor Alessandro Volta. Lake Como itself is a playground for water sports enthusiasts, while the surrounding mountains offer hiking trails and panoramic vistas. With its idyllic setting, rich history, and a sense of tranquility, Como is a true gem of Northern Italy that captivates the hearts of all who visit.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a picturesque town located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It is part of the Campania region and is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and charming architecture. Amalfi is set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The town itself is nestled in a valley, surrounded by terraced lemon groves and colorful buildings cascading down the hillside. The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and scenic drives along the winding coastal road. Amalfi's historic center holds a treasure trove of architectural gems and cultural attractions. The centerpiece is the magnificent Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), dedicated to St. Andrew. Its distinctive Arab-Norman style features intricate mosaics, a grand staircase, and a beautiful cloister. Nearby, the Chiostro del Paradiso (Cloister of Paradise) is a tranquil oasis with elegant arches and delicate details. The main square of Amalfi, Piazza del Duomo, is a vibrant hub where locals and visitors gather. It is lined with cafes, shops, and gelaterias, making it an ideal spot for people-watching. The piazza is dominated by the Cathedral and its striking bell tower, and it offers a lively atmosphere day and night.

A Beach Destination

Genoa

Genoa (Italian: Genova, Ligurian: Zena ) is a historic port city in northern Italy, the capital of the Liguria region. As a tourist attraction, is often overshadowed by cities such as Rome or Venice, even though it has a long history as a rich and powerful trade centre. However, with its multitude of hidden gems behind cozy alleyways, excellent cuisine (notably fish and seafood), renovated old port, beautiful sights (including one of Europe's biggest aquariums), and its position as the European Capital of Culture in 2004, the birthplace of explorer Christopher Columbus ( Cristoforo Colombo ) is an enticing place which is gradually becoming more included in the tourism market. With unusual typical slate-roofed houses, artistic churches, lovely seaside villas, and several luxurious boutiques, Genoa is a must-see if you want to experience the quintessential Italy.

Capri

Capri, Italy is a stunning island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the southern coast of Italy. Renowned for its natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere, Capri has been a favorite destination for artists, writers, and celebrities throughout history. The island is famous for its rugged coastline, picturesque cliffs, and crystal-clear blue waters, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and exploration. Visitors to Capri can enjoy a variety of experiences, from exploring the charming town of Capri with its upscale boutiques and quaint cafes to taking boat tours to iconic sites like the Blue Grotto, a sea cave known for its mesmerizing azure waters. The island's stunning gardens, like the Gardens of Augustus, offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Faraglioni rock formations. With its luxurious villas, Roman ruins, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Capri provides a dreamy escape to indulge in la dolce vita and revel in the natural beauty of this enchanting Italian gem.

Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily in Italy, is a city that blends rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Located on the northern coast of the island, Palermo offers a unique Mediterranean experience with its lively markets, magnificent palaces, and delicious cuisine. With influences from various civilizations and a thriving local scene, Palermo is a captivating destination for visitors. Let's explore some of the highlights of Palermo and discover the charm of this Sicilian gem.

Quattro Canti

Palermo Cathedral

Palazzo dei Normanni

Capuchin Catacombs

Street Markets and Sicilian Cuisine

Siena

Siena is a captivating medieval city located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Renowned for its well-preserved historic center, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Siena's main square, Piazza del Campo, is a stunning focal point, known for its unique shell-shaped design and hosting the famous Palio horse race twice a year. The city's Gothic architecture, exemplified by the magnificent Siena Cathedral, showcases impressive art and cultural heritage. Siena is also celebrated for its rich traditions, including the Contrade, the city's 17 historic neighborhoods, each with its distinct character and identity. Visitors can immerse themselves in Siena's charming atmosphere, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, and experience the vibrant local life that makes this city a true gem of Tuscany.

Positano

Positano is a small picturesque town with splendid coastal views, on the famous Amalfi Coast in Campania, Italy. The town itself is perched on an enclave on the face of a hill and winds down towards the waters of the Amalfi Coast. Naturally beautiful, Positano attracts thousands of visitors every year. For most of the year, the town is full of people, but if you are planning to visit Positano, it would be best to schedule your trip during late-spring or early-autumn, when the weather is beautifully warm and the crowds more manageable than in the summer months. However, all the months from March to November are still great times to visit, and thanks to its mild mediterranean climate, the winter months aren’t bad either.

Turin

Turin (Italian: Torino, Piedmontese: Turin ), a large city of about one million inhabitants, is set in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, an hour's drive from the French border and slightly more than that from the Mediterranean sea. It's famous for being the home of Italy's royal family. Today, Turin, with its fine, aristocratic atmosphere, old world sophisticated shops, grand boulevards and palaces, leafy parks, and several art galleries, is an increasingly popular tourist resort. The 2006 Winter Olympics, and its status the same year as World Book Capital, have prompted tourists to visit this beautiful and underestimated Italian city, which has a longstanding cultural and artistic history.

Bari

Bari, a captivating travel destination along the Adriatic sea in Italy, beckons visitors with its blend of historical treasures, coastal beauty, and authentic Southern Italian charm. The city boasts the picturesque Old Town, known as Bari Vecchia, where narrow alleys lead to charming piazzas and the grand Basilica di San Nicola, an important pilgrimage site. The stunning waterfront promenade provides views of the sea and the imposing Castello Svevo, while the bustling Mercato Coperto offers a feast for the senses with its fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Bari's authentic trattorias and osterias serve up traditional Apulian cuisine, including orecchiette pasta and seafood dishes, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of the region.