Best of Italy

10 Best Places To Visit In Italy

When visiting Italy, there are iconic destinations that should always be experienced at least once. There is St. Peter’s Basilica, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum. One could, in fact, spend an entire holiday just exploring Rome or one of the other fantastic cities that dot the Italian landscape. Our 10 best of Italy, as you will see, takes on a unique, cultural approach outside of what one might expect.

Ostia Antica

If you like the idea of visiting Pompeii, but you don’t like the idea of crowds, then this is the destination to choose. Within the ruins of this ancient city, you’ll find a 2nd century bath with its floor mosaic intact. There is also the Thermopolium, which was an ancient café where the menu was literally a wall fresco. This ancient sea port is a true masterpiece that you’ll love to tour.

Tivoli

There are two world heritage sites in this community to explore. Make sure you take time to visit the Villa Adriana, which was the estate of Emperor Hadrian. You’ll find ancient olive trees, towering pines, and plenty of adventures waiting for you. The stunning gardens of the Villa d’Este provide the foundation of an afternoon adventure too.

Necropoli di Banditaccia

Located in Cerveteri, this world heritage site is literally a city dedicated to the dead. There are squares, streets, and terraces which all work together with the raised tombs, now topped with grass. The amount of quiet you’ll find is surprising, even when the site is relatively busy. Then follow up your time with the Etruscan culture by visiting the national museum in the city.

Naples

Naples is one of the largest and most lively cities in Italy but the city’s main sites and attractions are condensed into the neighbourhood known as the Centro Storico (or Historic Centre), which is in fact a very small yet highly concentrated area. Naples is famed for being the birthplace of the pizza, so trying an authentic Neapolitan pizza is a must when visiting!

Rome

Rome, the Eternal City and the nation’s capital, epitomises everything wonderful about Italy. The ancient, medieval and modern collide to form a vibrancy that is rooted in the past but points to the future. Key attractions in Rome include the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the assortment of museums.

Verona

If you’re after romance, a trip to Verona is a must – the famous setting for the most romantic story of all time, Romeo and Juliet. In this fair city you can walk in the footsteps of the star-crossed lovers, and visit both Juliet’s balcony and her tomb. Verona also hosts an opera season throughout the summer, with performances held in the city’s Roman amphitheatre.

Turin

Turin is ideally located near ski resorts in Italy, Switzerland and France, including the resorts of Courchevel, Verbier, Chamonix and Tignes. If you’re thinking of staying in the city of Turin, then you won’t be disappointed. Boasting fabulous architecture, castles and charming squares, there’s plenty of sightseeing to be done!

Orvieto

This small community takes you back into Medieval yesteryear. There are small streets to explore, excellent restaurants to enjoy, and stunning views to see from the tops of the cliffs found here. There is also the stunning Orvieto Cathedral, which is one of the best Gothic churches of its type. The façade and frescoes provide a spectacular rainbow of colors to enjoy.

The Isle of Capri

Crossing the Bay of Naples, you’ll find a beautiful island that provides visitors with numerous options. The Blue Grotto is one stop that must be done during your time on the island. You can explore the ruins of the Villa Jovis, go hiking along the Monte Solaro, or rest in a sailboat and enjoy the gentle waves of the water.

Venice

Venice has charmed visitors from all over the world for centuries. Built on a series of more than 110 islands, the canals of Venice take you to attractions like the Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and St. Mark’s Basilica. Even sightseeing along the Grand Canal is worth an afternoon trip. Hire a gondola and relax as you get to enjoy the beautiful landmarks throughout this great city.

The best of Italy incorporates the history of this country, its various cultures, and so much more. Whether you come for Rome or you come to explore each region, you’ll find a holiday here to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Best time to travel Italy

The best time to travel in Italy is not when the place is brimming with guests. Well, that is if you want to really take a good look at what the place has to offer. Spring, which is around April to May, is considered the best time to travel in Italy. The new leaves add to the splendour of the scenery and the absence of large crowds of travellers makes getting around Italy less of a hassle.

Autumn is considered the best time to travel in Italy as well. The period between September and November unveils Italy at its best. At this time, the grapes are harvested making sweet local wine and roasted chestnuts available just about anywhere.

The best time to travel in Italy is during winter too. Fur coats abound, long queues in front of museums are nonexistent, and a joyful spirit for the holidays can be felt in the air. Going farther south at this time enables you to forget the cold and damp winter season and allows you to linger on till the ski season which lasts from December till late March.

Summer can be the best time to travel in Italy. Skiing on the glaciers or simply taking a walk in the Italian Alps is a favourite thing during this season.

August is not a good time to visit Italy. Most establishments are closed as this is the time when Italians go on vacation.