Italy is one of the world’s most famous and visited destinations. Between the cities, the food, the landscape, the beaches, the wine, and the culture, Italy is tough to beat. Venice Beach was even named after Venice, Italy. With so many places to go, Italy remains an incredible country to visit. Whether you’re looking for history, art, wine, pasta, or friendly locals, you can find it all in this beautiful country. Continue reading below for the top destinations in Italy.
Rome
Rome is the obvious destination other than Venice. The seat of the Roman Empire, the city of Rome is not as large as you might think. It is also truly crumbling. Between the wear on the ancient structures and influx of poverty and trash, a lot of Rome is less than desirable. You should go above and beyond when visiting Italy’s capital city.
Don’t waste your time with cheap places to stay and affordable restaurants. Rome is where you blow it out. The hotels in Rome can be incredibly luxurious. If you pay a little extra, you’ll have a better time in Rome. Save the bed and breakfast for somewhere else. When you are done exploring the Vatican, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon, you will want a nice place to drink wine, eat food, and sleep well.
Lake Como
Lake Como is the pride of Italians. Located in the far North of the country, a visit to Lake Como isn’t exactly on the way to much. If you are taking a train trip through Europe, Lake Como could be a destination to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s a place to take a vacation within a vacation. Whether you’re staying in Italy for months or just have a couple of weeks, Lake Como is a great getaway spot for Italians and foreigners alike.
Milan
If you’re visiting Lake Como, you could combine it with a trip to Milan. Milan is perhaps the most elegant city in Italy. It is known for fashion, good-looking people, amazing nightlife, and great food. It can be stuck-up, but you’ll see why when you get there. The locals are very proud of Milan, and it shows. When you are taking a trip to Northern Italy, don’t miss Milan.
Florence
Continuing our trip in Northern Italy, Florence isn’t as far North as Milan, but some would argue it’s the true heart of the country. With so much history, art, and a specifically Florentine attitude, Florence is not to be overlooked on any trip to Italy. You will get a real feeling for the country and its people. Not only is it authentically Italian, but you will also never be bored of the art or the architecture.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre means “five villages” and the area has become a destination for tourists from around the world. Whether you want some seafood, to swim in the ocean, or just want to take in the amazing views of colorful buildings on the backdrop of the rugged ocean, Cinque Terre is the place for you. There is even a trail where you can hike from village to village. Whatever you do here, you will enjoy it.
Venice
If you catch Venice at the right time of year, you can find a different destination. Whether it’s tourist season or not will really impact your trip. You can take a gondola around town, drink wine in the canals, and enjoy great meals. Venice is a place that everyone wants to see in their lifetime. Eat gelato in the main square. Take a boat trip. Do your best to find the real spirit of Venice.
Italy remains one of the most popular destinations in the world for a reason. It has so many places to see and an endless number of things to do. You can live your Italian dream. Whether you are going to Rome and Southern Italy, or Venice and Northern Italy, you will have an amazing time. Be sure to live like an Italian. Drink wine and eat pasta every day. Take naps. Talk to locals. Stroll around the cities and take in the vistas. Whatever it is on your itinerary, Italy is an incredible destination.
