ITALY

Travel Guide to Italy

Italy is one of Europe’s most iconic and popular destinations. Home to incredible food, fabulous wine, tons of ancient ruins, and picturesque landscapes, it should come as no surprise that this is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.

Vineyards in Tuscany, history of Florence, ancient streets in Rome, laid back nature of Southern Italy, gorgeous Cinque Terre, romantic canals in Venice.

Italy travel leaves no visitor underwhelmed.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxe honeymooner looking to splash out, you’ll be able to have an amazing experience here.

Just don’t rush.

Italy is best experienced slowly so pace yourself. Soak in the atmosphere and way of life as you explore. Relax, take in the scenery, enjoy a cappuccino or a glass of wine. The slower you go, the better you’ll be able to appreciate the charms and nuance of this iconic southern European gem.

This travel guide to Italy can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this dreamy destination.

1. Party at the Venice Carnival

Ten days and nights of masquerade madness in February before Lent makes for quite the party. This tradition goes back centuries and is one of the biggest parties and festivals in Italy. If you have the funds, you can even pay to attend a traditional masquerade ball. Make plans early, though – the entire city becomes packed and very expensive, so it will definitely change your Venice experience.

2. Shop in Milan

Milan is the fashion capital of Italy. Spend some time taking in the glamor but don’t spend more than a day or two here unless you’re looking to splash out. While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful Milan Cathedral and Sforzesco Castle, a 15th-century castle that houses Michelangelo’s last sculpture. There’s also Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, located inside Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

3. See the Leaning Tower in Pisa

The entire city of Pisa is focused around taking photos of the this famed tower. Souvenir shops have taken advantage of the tourist crown and line the street up and down the path to the tower. My advice is to grab your camera, get goofy, take your photos, and then head on to your next Italian adventure. (Also, arrive early to beat the crowds!).

4. Visit Siena

Everyone who visits Siena walks away loving it — and with good reason. Located in Tuscany, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Italy and has a labyrinth of lanes gathered around the arena of Piazza del Campo. Spend a few days admiring this charming city and exploring one of Italy’s most popular and famous regions.

5. Wander Naples

Naples, made famous as the birthplace of pizza, is a gritty city home to a wealth of historical treasures. There’s the medieval Naples Cathedral, the 18th-century Villa Comunale park, and nearby Pompeii, among others. Naples a must-see destination for history buffs and foodies alike. It’s the gateway to the south so you’re very likely to come here if you’re crisscrossing the country. Its location near Pompeii, Capri, and Sorrento make it the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Best of all, it’s a foodie city like no other; I ate my weight in pizza during my visit!

6. Explore Florence

There’s no real need to explain why to visit Florence. Everything people say about it is true. Great food, amazing museums, ancient buildings, small streets, awesome gelato — the city has it all. While here, make sure you take a few wine tours throughout the region to get a feel for the verdant countryside.

7. Drive around “the Heel”

Few travelers ever visit the southern heel of the Italian “boot.” But if you have time, it’s worth the trip. This is where most of the fruits and vegetables in Italy come from so a trip down here will give you the best glimpse into rustic Italian life far from the maddening crowds of Rome and Italy’s other tourist hotspots.

8. Eat your way around Sicily

Sicily may be most known for its mafia connection, but there’s more to the island than mobsters. Sicily has its own unique cooking style, amazing coastal beaches, extensive wineries, and more. Be sure to spend some time in Taormina and Palermo, the capital of Sicily and home to lots of churches and other historic sites. Don’t miss Sicily if you’re a foodie!

9. Stroll through Sorrento

Sorrento is a small city in southwestern Italy surrounded by a dreamy landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys, and the Lattari Mountains. In the town itself, there isn’t a whole lot to do, but Sorrento makes an ideal starting point for numerous excursions to nearby cities and islands around the famous Amalfi Coast, like Capri and Ischia. I especially love driving along the winding coastal roads overlooking the sea. The area is the perfect place for a road trip.

10. Attend Settimana Santa (Holy Week)

This is the last week of Lent, known as Holy Week. During this time, there are several processions throughout Italy, drawing crowds of thousands. Throughout the week, there are various gatherings in Puglia, Abruzzo, and Sicily but the major event occurs on Easter Sunday and is led by the Pope himself. It’s an amazing time to visit, but expect crowds and for accommodation to sell out months in advance.

11. Visit Alberobello

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an interesting and picturesque little town just south of Bari known for its unusual white cone-shaped houses (they’re super peculiar). It’s well worth a visit between the months of November and April (to avoid the flocks and gaggles of tourists) as there are a couple of museums to peruse, in addition to some great restaurants, bars, and markets.

12. Tour the Vatican Museums

If you have the patience to wait through the lines, this is one of the most grandeur collections to see while in Rome. Founded in the early 16th century, it is a complex of museums spanning over 12 acres. There are so many priceless highlights, including Michelangelo’s works in the Sistine Chapel. You could easily spend hours here. Consider getting a guide to make the museum come to life. Admission is 17 EUR.

13. See Chiesa di Sant’Efisio

When you find yourself in Cagliari on Sardinia, wander over to the Stampace quarter to see this church. Dedicated to the patron Saint Ephesus, this is the most important church in the city and it was actually built over the saint’s prison site. The original building dates to the 13th century, though it was rebuilt and expanded in the 16th century and then again in the 18th century, this time in the Baroque style. Admission is free.

14. Take a cooking class

Italy is a dream destination for foodies and the best way to learn about this amazing cuisine is to take a cooking class. You’ll get to visit a local market, learn about the history of some of the country’s best dishes, and then learn how to make them yourself so you can impress friends and family back home. Prices vary, but most cost at least 80 EUR and last a few hours.

15. Day trip to Lucca

Just outside of Florence, this is a great city to explore on a bicycle. There are fewer tourists here, so it’s the perfect escape if you happen to be visiting during the hectic summer months. Don’t miss the city’s intact Renaissance-era city walls (which span 4km and are walkable) and the 14th-century cathedral.

16. Take a walking tour

Take Walks offers incredible, detailed tours all around the country. They are relatively inexpensive and you definitely get your money’s worth. If you are big into history, culture, or architecture these tours are for you. You’ll walk away with a much richer understanding of the country. (If you’re on a budget, most cities have free walking tours that cover the basics).