Practical Advice When Traveling In Italy

A nation of world-famous wine and cuisine, medieval palaces and breathtaking Roman ruins, Italy has much to offer travelers. Traveling in Italy can mean many different things, including weeks of exploring iconic cities while experiencing the world's finest cultural and entertainment options. It also easily possible to spend weeks traveling among the hidden gems scattered throughout the countryside. Residents of this country are typically stylish, cultured, warm, and friendly.

This country boasts the greatest collection of artistic and architectural treasures on Earth. Cultural masterpieces, vibrant cuisine, fabulous fashion and a splendid natural landscape combine in a country with 44 World Heritage sites. Its marvelous cities including Rome, Venice, and Florence have inspired painters, poets, and casual visitors for centuries.

Aside from its famous large cities, Italy features dramatic renaissance hill villages such as San Gimignano in Tuscany, and enchanting seaside fishing villages including the Amalfi coast's spectacular Positano. Visitors have an incredible opportunity to sample fine wines and elegant dishes and wine cellars and vineyards all over the country.

In addition to the fabulous art and architecture, nature lovers will find plenty to entertain including cliff diving, skiing, and a number of water sports. Costa Smeralda in Sardinia is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe featuring turquoise sea and plenty of sunshine. Hikers, campers, and adventure seekers are drawn to the snowy, rugger Dolomite mountain range.

The Alps separate Italy from the rest of Europe: Slovenia, France, Austria and Switzerland lie to the north. The Alpine region includes Piedmont, Val d'Aosta, Po Plain, and the Dolomites, featuring some of the highest mountains in Europe. The central region is home to Tuscany's famous landscape, backed by snow-capped mountain vistas, rolling green hills and a breathtaking coastline. Umbria, also known as the "green heart of Italy, " features vast olive groves, towering pine trees and enormous plains. South of the Umbria region is Rome and Vatican City.

The southern area of the country showcases miles of olive groves and lush forests, with a less dense population than the northern regions. The islands of Ischia, Capri, and Procida can be found in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visible across the sea from the mainland, Sicily is home to Mount Etna, and active volcano and several lava fields. More islands and a rugged coastline are features of the seaside town of Sardinia. The boot heel region, Puglia in particular, has additional volcanoes and interesting marsh ecosystems.

Italy boasts almost 8,500 km of beautiful coastline making it a favorite European beach destination. Modern amenities are commonplace at almost all beaches, and watersports can be found at any of the country's beachside resorts. The Italian Riviera including Liguria and the Amalfi coast have become very popular recently, while the island beaches are usually more secluded. Divers will find plenty to entertain in Sardinia, Mauro, and the Tremiti Islands.

Fishing trips are popular in several places around the country. The Sardinian coast and the waters off Sicily are popular fishing destinations, as are Tuscany's and Umbria's many rivers. Whatever kinds of activities you seek, traveling in Italy will provide you with a lifetime of priceless memories.