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!
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.
Monza is a small city in the Lombardy region of Italy. This historic city serves as an important economic and industrial centre, as well as an ideal day trip destination from Milan (30 kilometres away). While it is best known for its impressive Grand Prix racing track, Monza is also home to a number of must-see cultural attractions. Chief among these is its Romanesque Gothic cathedral with its renowned Chapel of Theodelinda, where you will find some magnificent frescoes and the Iron Crown of Lombardy, believed to contain one of the original nails used during Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. Monza Park (Europe’s largest enclosed park) is a delight to explore as are the numerous historic villas contained within its grounds. Finally, those travelling with children should check out Acquaworld, a large waterpark boasting over 1100 metres of slides, as well as steam rooms, lazy rivers, water massage facilities and more.
Resting in the foothills of the magnificent Italian Alps, the lovely medieval town of Bergamo is revered for its startling natural beauty and its abundance of fascinating historical art and architecture. The ancient hilltop upper town (Citta Alta) is a maze of cobbled medieval streets surrounded by crumbling Venetian walls. Must-see sights include the ornate Santa Maria Maggiore, the medieval and Renaissance designed Piazza Vecchia, and many excellent examples of art from the Dark Ages, Baroque, and Renaissance eras. With the modern lower town (Citta Bassa) just a short funicular ride away, all necessary modern facilities are at hand. This thriving town boasts excellent upmarket shopping and plenty of gastronomic establishments serving up a variety of sumptuous culinary delights. Bergamo provides an intoxicating mix of old and new world charms.
