From the cinematic coastline of Amalfi to the canals of Venice, Rome’s lavishly frescoed Sistine Chapel to Florence’s treasure-trove Uffizi Gallery, Italy's classic stops are worth visiting again and again. Read on for the inside scoop on seven Italian must-sees.
Capital of Italy's Ligurian region, the port city of Genoa seems surprisingly off the tourist trail, despite its cache of grand palaces and exceptional street food. Explore the atmospheric alleys and piazzas of the Old Town, visit its huge aquarium or just stroll its reinvigorated waterfront and become an expert on everything pesto. Learn more about what to do, see, and eat in Genoa below.
Sicily begins to heat up in June; the weather is beach-perfect drawing holidaymakers to the coastline and popular cultural attractions. And though you'll have to contend with the crowds, there are plenty of destinations to choose from in which to craft your perfect island holiday. Read this monthly guide to learn more.
Italy is comprised of 20 different regions, each with its own identity and heritage yet all combined to form the Bel Paese (Beautiful Country) we know and love. While navigating these geographical divisions can be logistically challenging, travelers owe it to themselves see as much of the country as time and budget will allow.
Travelers to Italy typically plan a trip for 10 to 14 days when combining Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento with Rome. If you're not interested in Rome, seven to nine days is enough for your Naples, Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as six days. Check out the below Naples, Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento trips.
Italy oozes romance like few other destinations can: after all, this is where the world's best-known love story, Romeo and Juliet, was set. From exploring the cultural vibrancy of Rome through sipping wine straight from the vineyards of rural Tuscany down to sun-bathing on the sultry coast of Sicily, these are the most passion-inducing places in Italy to celebrate your new marriage.
In the northwest of Italy is a stretch of ruggedly beautiful coast that gives the nation's other hotspots a run for their money. This is Cinque Terre, and it comprises five villages spread over two miles, all with a history as deep as the Ligurian Sea. Let this guide be your roadmap to the vast lemon groves, terraced vineyards, and colorful seaside homes that define a region.
Outside the height of peak season, September makes for a great time to visit Tuscany. Toward the end of the month, the crowds have lessened, the weather is not blazingly hot, and the Tyrrhenian Sea remains inviting. Read on to learn more.
The Italian island is green, lush, and dotted with blooming wildflowers and citrus fruit—with the entire country coming out for Easter festivities. Take advantage of the fewer crowds and cheaper airfare during this shoulder season month and get yourself outdoors to experience all that Sicily has to offer. Read this monthly guide for more.
Most people visiting both Palermo and Catania spend about 7 to 10 days in Italy, which usually includes some time in Taormina as well. For travelers wanting to visit Palermo and Catania exclusively, plan a week to eight days for a well-paced trip. Even travelers with limited time can see Sicily's highlights in as few as five or six days. For the best itineraries, including Palermo and Catania, keep reading below.