Italy

Travel Guide
Tower of Gualtieri showing landscape views, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Discover ancient cities, charming coastal towns and diverse landscapes in this boot-shaped Mediterranean nation, famed for its cultural riches and rustic cuisine.

As the birthplace of pizza, gelato and pasta, Italy is perhaps best known for its mouthwatering food, though it also has much more to experience. Wander through ancient cities filled with historical ruins and relax at glamorous coastal resorts.

Among Italy’s biggest tourist hotspots are Venice, Rome and Florence, each offering iconic sights and world-class museums, from canals to the Colosseum to the Uffizi Gallery. Travelers in search of rugged coastlines and gorgeous beaches head to the islands of Capri or Sardinia, while food-obsessed visitors head to Bologna. For romance and open-air opera, venture to cobbled Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s timeless love story, Romeo and Juliet.

The Vatican City in Rome is another tourist favorite, with art-loving visitors arriving in droves to marvel at Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel frescoes. If you are planning a visit to this holy enclave, dress modestly and come in the afternoon to avoid the large morning rush.

South of Naples is the scenic Amalfi Coast. Discover colorful mountain towns and picturesque former fishing villages, such as Positano. For a more rugged coastal escape, head north to the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre, five pastel-painted clifftop villages on the Ligurian coast.

Tuscany in central Italy is another much-loved vacation destination. Stroll around hilltop medieval towns such as the multi-towered San Gimignano and sample some of the region’s famous wines, including Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti Classico. Tuscany is also home to Pisa, famed for its leaning tower.

Italy has an efficient public transportation system. Getting around the country is relatively easy. Ride trains and buses between the larger cities or rent a car to explore more rural areas and remote villages. Ferries run between the ports of the mainland and the small outlying islands. Two major airports serving Italy are Fiumicino Airport in Rome and Milano-Malpensa Airport in Milan.

Uncovering all the charms of the “big boot” of Italy could take years. Pick your favorite spots for your first visit and plan your trip now.

Popular cities in Italy

Roman Forum featuring a temple or place of worship, heritage architecture and a monument
Rome
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Museums
The classical Italian architecture, rich cultural heritage and sun-soaked piazzas all contribute to the unique atmosphere of Italy's spectacular capital city.

Reasons to visit

  • Piazza Navona
  • Pantheon
  • Colosseum
Milan which includes heritage architecture, street scenes and a sunset
Milan
Known for Cathedrals, Museums and Art
One of Europe’s biggest cities is also home of da Vinci’s The Last Supper, global fashion brands and one of the largest churches in the world.

Reasons to visit

  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • Teatro alla Scala
  • Piazza del Duomo
San Francesco di Paola which includes a square or plaza, night scenes and a church or cathedral
Naples
Known for Historical, Tours and Museums
Hidden within this compelling historical city is a wealth of ancient architecture, genuine Neapolitan pizzas and mysterious underground caves.

Reasons to visit

  • Port of Naples
  • Piazza del Plebiscito
  • Galleria Umberto I
Academy Bridge showing a coastal town, heritage architecture and a river or creek
Venice
Known for Boating, Cathedrals and Churches
One of those rare places where time appears to have stood still. Renowned for charming lovers and inspiring artists, all visitors will appreciate its splendour.

Reasons to visit

  • St. Mark's Square
  • St. Mark's Basilica
  • Doge's Palace
Uffizi Gallery showing street scenes as well as a large group of people
Florence
Known for Historical, Museums and Art

Reasons to visit

  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
  • Palazzo Vecchio
Palermo featuring a house and heritage architecture
Palermo
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Culture

Reasons to visit

  • Teatro Massimo
  • Ballaro Market
  • Palace of the Normans

Popular places to visit

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