Italy is a wonderful country with so much to offer. Located in western Europe, it’s packed full of hidden gems. From the gorgeous cities, archaeological sites, and amazing Italian food, it’s no wonder that people from all around come here on vacation or pilgrimage!
Holding more world heritage sites than any other country, and home to Europe’s only 3 active volcanoes, Italy is every explorer’s dream.
But why should you go? Grab your swimwear, camera, and appetite, and let’s look at 5 reasons why you should visit Italy:
Best Food on the Planet!
Did you know the average Italian eats over 51 pounds of pasta every year? Now that says something. Italy is known for its sensational food and has become one of the world’s best dining destinations.
Food Galore: Trying Italian Cuisine
Offering an extensive menu of flavors, people travel far and wide to get their taste of this delicious cuisine from the heart of its creation.
From Allesso di Bollito, a delicious simmered beef dish famous in Rome, to the finest fish cuisine on the Amalfi coast, to perfect pizzas and homemade pasta found overlooking the canals in Venice, there is no shortage of great food to enjoy with your family and friends. If you have a sweet tooth don’t forget to sample some Italian gelato, because who doesn’t love a spin on ice cream? (Did you know, gelato is served slightly warmer than ice cream, so you are able to really savor the full flavor profile? Yum!)
Have You Heard About Italian Wine?
Food isn’t the only thing Italy is famous for. Their delicious Italian wines have been transported around the world for millions to try. Sip from the source at wonderful vineyards in Tuscany, found in the heart of the Italian countryside.
Get beautiful scenery and delicious full-bodied flavors as you watch the sun go down with a large glass of their excellent wines. Now that’s our idea of a perfect evening.
Cities Galore: Exploring and So Much More.
Italian cities hold some of the best historical sites in the world, including many Unesco world heritage sites, with many major cities just waiting to be explored. From Rome to Florence, Venice, and Milan – these beautiful regions of Italy are home not only to centuries-old architectural marvels but delicious foodie experiences, too!
Rome: The Capital City
Taking a peek at some of our favorite cities, let’s start with Rome. Located in central-western Italy, it’s home to the famous Coliseums dating back to 72 AD. Packed with historical buildings, this is one for the memory book.
Rome is also home to The Vatican City, the headquarters of the catholic church, offering impressive buildings and Vatican museums, a must-see in Rome. While visiting museums in the Vatican City, you can’t miss out on admiring the Sistine Chapel ceiling, famed for the portrayal of The Creation of Heaven and Earth, the story of Adam and Eve, and Noah and the Great Flood. Here you get a firsthand glimpse into Michelangelo’s world as an artist.
Pisa: Get The Perfect Photo
No Italian city itinerary would be complete without visiting the city of Pisa, home of the leaning tower of Pisa. Why not spend the day getting the perfect photo, eating delicious food, and wandering the beautiful shops?
Florence: Filled with Culture
Next up is the city of Florence, home to one of the most famous art galleries in the world and packed full of Italian history, not to mention some of the best pizza, pasta, and Italian wines you can find in Italy, Florence is another city we just can’t get enough of.
How to get around: Trains
With so many cities to visit, why not travel between them on the fast-speed trains that link the cities together, making it quite easy to see multiple cities during your Italian adventure, all on public transport.
We won’t blame you if you never leave Italy, after all, it does seem to be the country that has it all.
Head Back in Time with Italy’s History and Culture.
Do you love history? Italy is a treasure trove of European culture and has a huge historical heritage. One of the most visited countries in the world, it houses some great attractions in its different regions.
Whether you’re interested in Italian art, history, culture, or scenery, Italy’s cities and countryside offer a glimpse into the past and present.
History: Italy’s Most Famous Moments in Time
From the ancient ruins of Rome to the canals of Venice, Italy is a country rich in history and culture. Italy has been inhabited since Paleolithic times, and over the centuries has been ruled by a number of different civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Lombards, Franks, and Holy Roman Empire.
Some of the most famous historical moments in Italian history include the Roman Empire, the Renaissance period, and the unification of Italy. Each of these periods has left a significant mark on Italian culture that you can still see today.
From historical cities to natural disasters that left history right in front of our eyes, Pompeii is a place where a city was frozen in time.
When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, it buried the city of Pompeii under a thick layer of ash. The city was preserved for centuries, and you can still see the ruins today.
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius was one of the most devastating that has been recorded, killing an estimated 16,000 people. It can be viewed today and is a sobering but fascinating trip.
Architecture: Italy’s Finest Buildings
From ancient ruins to medieval churches and Renaissance palaces, Italy’s buildings reflect the nation’s long and varied history.
The Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence is one church that really stands out among all others with its impressive architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. The church was originally built in the Gothic style, but over the years, it has been remodeled a number of times, most recently in the 19th century.
Art: Some Of The Most Famous in the World
Italy has some of the most famous art in the world including Italian artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
In Milan, you can see one of Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpieces, “The Last Supper,” which resides at the restoration center right next door to the “Mona Lisa.” In Florence, The Uffizi Gallery is home to some of the most famous Italian art in the world, including Michelangelo’s “David” and Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus.”
So, if you’re looking to learn more about Italian culture, or just want to see some of the most famous art in the world, a trip to Italy is definitely the way to go. With so many different cities and attractions to choose from, you’re sure to find something that’s perfect for you.
The Italian Coastline: Beaches, Sunshine, and Beautiful Views in Southern Italy.
Everyone has seen the famous pictures, the beautiful buildings hugging the cliffs standing above sparkling crystal blue waters, right? This dreamy image could include you when you head to Southern Italy.
Southern Italy: Visit Glistening Waters and View Fascinating Culture
Just a short train or drive from Naples, The Amalfi coast is home to beautiful tiny villages, delicious restaurants, beaches, and friendly locals. The Amalfi coast is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun while drinking wine and eating plenty of homemade pasta and pizza.
In addition to its beaches, the Amalfi Coast is also home to a number of historical villages and towns. A few of the most famous villages on the coast include Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. Each small village has its own unique story to tell.
Sorrento and Positano are two of the most beautiful villages on the Amalfi Coast. They are located in close proximity to each other, and both are well worth a visit. In Sorrento, you can explore the ancient ruins of the city, or take a hike up The Path of Gods. The views from the top are truly breathtaking.
Positano is a beautiful village located on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The village is home to a number of small shops and restaurants, as well as a number of art galleries. You can also find lovely hikes in the area, with staggering views of the coastline from the top.
Cinque Terre: Multi-Colored Houses and Majestic Mountains
Another place we can’t recommend enough to travel to is Cinque Terre, surrounded by the Ligurian Sea. Traveling here is like taking a step back in time, the villages here have remained largely unchanged for centuries, and the buildings are still brightly painted in the traditional colors of their respective villages showcasing their natural beauty.
The views from Cinque Terre are truly breathtaking, with towering mountains on one side and sparkling blue waters on the other. You can hike the trails that connect the villages or take a boat ride to enjoy the views from the water.
There are many more beaches to explore, with these being just a few of our tried and tested favorites in Southern Italy.
Hiking: Climb to New Heights in Italy.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker, love to walk to find a beautiful view, or just go for a gentle stroll to the next pasta stop, Italy has some of the best hikes in the world.
With many trails at your doorstep, Italy opens its doors to all types of walkers, offering beautiful natural scenery, sunny weather, and friendly Italian locals on every trek.
Pompeii: Hiking Mt Vesuvius
One of our favorite hikes can be found in Pompeii, hiking Mt. Vesuvius. This is a must-do hike while you visit Pompeii, as it offers views over the neighboring towns that were overtaken by its volcanic eruption.
You can wander the crater of the volcano, a truly unique experience (and one we highly recommend), or just savor the past-worldly views. This active volcano is hiked by many travelers and is completely safe to do so thanks to the brilliant Italian patrollers who keep a close eye on things.
Cinque Terre: A Hike For All Abilities
Cinque Terre, located in northwest Italy, offers spectacular views as you hike between small fishing villages. Explore each nook and cranny when hiking here, basking in the beautiful Italian coastline.
Difficulty levels vary, ensuring there is something for everyone. Whether you hike between multiple villages to complete the entire route or visit just one, you’re greeted with an explosion of colorful houses and magnificent views of the sparkling water, which makes for a total “pinch-me” moment.
Well, that’s it for now, we’re off to Italy! Are you coming? In our opinion, Italy really is a trip of a lifetime. What is not to love about this beautiful country that hosts a perfect mixture of captivating culture, dense history, sensational scenery, and unparalleled culinary delights, it’s a fundamental destination on everyone’s bucket list!