It is easy to understand why Italy is one of the world’s most celebrated tourist destinations. This is a country that truly does have it all: exquisite landscapes, an abundance of art and architectural treasures, world renowned museums and a national obsession with decadent food and fine wine. Not to mention the country’s sun-kissed olive groves, glacial lakes, fiery volcanoes and snow capped peaks. Dive the clear green waters of the Mediterranean, browse the market stalls in Naples or experience the diverse wildlife inhabiting the country’s national parks. And if you find the vast range of choices overwhelming, take some advice from the locals: sit back, relax and take a moment to indulge in the “bella vita” (the good life). As they say: when in Rome!
Rome, the capital of Italy’s Lazio Region in the central-western part of the peninsula, is a city that remains virtually unrivalled in the sheer volume and diversity of its cultural repertoire. One could spend months here and still only scratch the surface of treasures to be discovered in this phenomenal ancient city. 3000-odd-years of haphazard urban development has resulted in a complex cocktail of art, history, and architecture full of fascinating cultural clashes and contrasts. Classical ruins as well as countless early Christian catacombs and clandestine churches sit alongside (or beneath) magnificent Renaissance palazzos and breathtaking Baroque fountains. This unique combination of a rich historical tapestry interweaved with a thriving and vibrant modern community living life to its fullest as only the Italians can, makes Italy's Eternal City one of the world's most intriguing and inspiring tourist destinations.
Framed by the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Apennine Mountains, Pescara is the capital city of the Province of Pescara, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. This vibrant city serves a gateway to the surrounding mountains as well as a popular seaside resort complete with long promenade-lined beaches, colourful markets, and a bustling pedestrianised waterfront area. With its lively party scene, laidback beach cafes, and impressive museums and architecture, Pescara truly has something to delight every traveller. Whether you are looking to browse designer boutiques, lounge on the beach with a cocktail, or explore the remarkable natural treasures of the surrounding area, you are sure to find much to keep you blissfully engaged in the idyllic seaside city of Pescara.
Perched on the slopes of the lush Monte Subasio, the charming little town of Assisi is blessed with a rich historical and religious heritage and a blissfully peaceful atmosphere. The town’s narrow winding alleyways boast a number of quaint hotels, gorgeous olive groves, excellent restaurants, and innumerable ancient churches. The most impressive of these is the Basilica di San Francesco, with glorious stained glass windows and wonderful frescoes attributed to Giotto, Cimabue and Simone Martin. Also of interest is the Rocca Maggiore, the large fortress presiding over the town which provides some spectacular views over the picturesque surrounding plains, hills and valleys. With all of this and more on offer, it is no wonder that Assisi has become one of Italy’s premier tourist destinations, popular with religious pilgrims and secular tourists alike.
The gorgeous capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence, lies towards the centre of the country, a tiny city with a massive heart and an even larger supply of artistic and historical treasures. For centuries, travellers have flocked en masse to the birthplace of the Renaissance movement to marvel at its abundant array of grandiose masterworks of architecture and art. Paramount to any itinerary are Michelangelo’s David, the awe-inspiring Botticelli works, the Uffizi (packed to the brim with pieces by Caravaggio and Da Vinci), and, of course, Brunelleschi’s remarkable cupola, the religious heart of Florence, which dominates the skyline. Once these popular tourist favourites have been ticked off, take a stroll around the alluring Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte to experience enthralling views of this beautiful, beguiling city.
Renowned as Italy’s capital of gastronomy, Bologna is undoubtedly one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Set in the picturesque Po Valley in Northern Italy, the city’s gorgeous porticoed streets are brimming with an enchanting blend of exquisite blushing-pink palaces, impressive medieval and renaissance buildings, and a slew of world-class museums and galleries. As the home of the world’s oldest university, this small city has the atmosphere of a progressive, liberal university-town, and, despite its rich history, it feels young and vibrant in a way that many other Italian cities don’t. It is also brimming with Italian locals in a way that many other Italian tourist-packed towns aren’t. With its sublime cuisine, lively spirit, and largely undiscovered counter-culture art and music scene, Bologna is a truly unforgettable off-the-tourist-trail destination.
The vibrant metropolis, Milan, it the capital of Italy’s Lombardy region, in northern Italy. Always at the forefront of international fashion, Milan’s sophisticated glitzy facade has afforded it a reputation for superficiality and excessive consumerism. However, beneath its exterior hides a treasure trove of historical and architectural delights: from its glorious Gothic churches, Baroque mansions and Art Nouveau palazzos, to the striking, modern skyscrapers of the Porta Nuova financial district. Must-see sites include the spectacular Duomo Cathedral, the glass-vaulted Galleria, and of course La Scala, one of the world’s most famous opera houses. Milan caters for a broad range of interests: those in search of some glorious designer retail therapy will be well sated, but so too will those looking for fascinating historical sites and remarkable architectural marvels.
