About Destination
Travel to Italy
Browse our pages highlighting these top 10 regions: Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Lake Como, Sicily and Sardinia we feel sure you’ll see what's possible to ensure your trip to Italy is truly memorable.
About Italy
Italy is a country located in Southern Europe, known for its rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
If you're a foodie, Italy offers an abundance of delicious cuisine including pizza, pasta, gelato, and wine. You can also explore local markets and try fresh produce like tomatoes, olives, and cheeses.
For history buffs, Italy has a wealth of ancient sites and landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum in Rome. You can also visit the ruins of Pompeii, an ancient city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Nature lovers will enjoy Italy's scenic coastline, lakes, and mountains. The Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Lake Como are popular destinations for their stunning views and picturesque towns.
If you're interested in art and architecture, Italy is home to some of the world's most famous museums and galleries. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Vatican Museums in Rome, and the Accademia Gallery in Venice are just a few examples.
Getting to Italy
Italy can be easily accessed by air, land, and sea.
By air, major international airports in Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, and Naples offer direct flights from cities around the world. Budget airlines also operate within Europe, providing affordable options for traveling within the continent.
By land, Italy is well-connected by rail and road networks. Trains are a popular and convenient way to travel between cities and regions, with frequent and efficient services. Buses and private cars are also options for traveling around the country.
By sea, Italy has several ports for ferry and cruise ship arrivals, particularly along the Mediterranean coast. Popular ports include Venice, Genoa, Naples, and Palermo.
Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Italy
If you're looking for an alternative and off the beaten track experience in Italy, there are plenty of unique and exciting options to choose from. For example, you can stay at an agriturismo, a farm that offers accommodation to guests. These types of stays allow you to experience rural life in Italy and participate in farm activities, learn about local produce, and enjoy delicious farm-to-table meals.
Another option is to go on a truffle hunting tour in the Piedmont region. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of truffle hunting while exploring the beautiful countryside. You could also stay in a medieval castle in Tuscany, Umbria, or Emilia-Romagna for a unique and unforgettable experience.
If you're interested in exploring the lesser-known Venetian islands, consider visiting Burano, Murano, and Torcello. These islands are known for their colorful houses, glass-blowing traditions, and ancient cathedrals. Or, if you prefer hiking, you can explore the stunning mountain range of the Apennines by hiking through its beautiful landscapes, dotted with medieval villages and ancient ruins.
Another destination worth exploring is Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cave dwellings and historic architecture. In Umbria, you can visit the lesser-known wine region for a more authentic and intimate wine tasting experience, with beautiful countryside views.
If you're interested in food, consider participating in a slow food experience, such as a cooking class, food tour, or dining in a traditional osteria. Alternatively, you could learn about traditional Italian crafts by visiting artisan workshops and studios, from ceramics to leatherworking to bookbinding.
Finally, if you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, consider exploring Italy's beautiful coastline during the off-season, when beaches are less crowded and prices are lower. Some great options include the beaches of Puglia, Sardinia, and Calabria.
Top 10 things to do in Italy
- Explore Rome's Ancient Sites: Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon for a glimpse into Italy's rich history.
- Marvel at Art and Architecture in Florence: Admire works by Michelangelo and other Renaissance artists at the Uffizi Gallery and visit the iconic Duomo.
- Wander the Canals of Venice: Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and visit the stunning St. Mark's Basilica.
- Hike the Cinque Terre: Explore the picturesque coastal villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
- Sample Wine in Tuscany: Visit the Chianti region for a taste of Italy's renowned wines and take in the scenic countryside.
- Relax on the Amalfi Coast: Soak up the sun and stunning views of the Mediterranean while exploring the towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
- Visit Pompeii: Discover the ruins of this ancient city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
- Ski in the Dolomites: Experience Italy's stunning mountain range with skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views.
- Eat and Drink in Bologna: Enjoy the city's famous cuisine including handmade pasta and traditional Bolognese sauce, accompanied by local wines.
- Island Hop in Sicily: Explore the diverse landscape of Italy's largest island, from the historic city of Palermo to the stunning beaches of Taormina.
The climate of Italy
The climate in Italy varies depending on the region, but it is mostly temperate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. In general, the northern regions are cooler and receive more rain, while the southern regions have a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
In the northern regions, such as the Alps and the Po Valley, winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers are generally warm but not as hot as in the south.
In central Italy, the climate is milder, with cooler temperatures in the hilly areas and warmer temperatures in the valleys. The coastal regions of Tuscany and Lazio have a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.
In the southern regions, such as Campania, Puglia, and Sicily, the climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal areas benefit from sea breezes that make the temperatures more tolerable, especially during the summer months.
Overall, Italy has a pleasant climate, with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, especially during the winter months. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before traveling to Italy, as the climate can vary significantly depending on the region and time of year.
