Top Destinations in Italy

Rome

The Eternal City is a must-see for first-timers. Where else can you walk past a modern café and stumble upon a 2,000-year-old ruin? Highlights include the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican City. But Rome is also about long dinners in Trastevere, sipping espresso in a sunlit piazza, and indulging in gelato more than once a day.

Travel Advisor Tip: Pre-book guided tours for the Vatican and Colosseum. Skip-the-line access is worth every penny during high season.

Florence & Tuscany

Florence is an art lover’s paradise—home to Michelangelo’s David, the Uffizi Gallery, and stunning Renaissance architecture. It's compact and walkable, making it ideal for first-time Europe travelers. Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and medieval hill towns like Siena and San Gimignano are perfect for a slower-paced adventure.

Venice

There’s nowhere like Venice. Gondolas, canals, crumbling pastel buildings—it’s impossibly romantic and unlike any other place in the world. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and take a boat out to Murano and Burano. Just expect crowds and embrace the magic anyway.

Amalfi Coast

Italy’s most dramatic coastline delivers jaw-dropping views and glamorous towns. Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi each offer charm, luxury, and cliffside drama. Plan to splurge a bit here—boutique hotels, limoncello tastings, and scenic boat rides are all part of the experience.

Cinque Terre

These five pastel seaside villages, perched along rugged cliffs, offer a more casual coastal escape. Hike the scenic trail between towns (or take the train), swim in the Ligurian Sea, and feast on fresh seafood with a glass of local white wine.

Milan

A sleek, fashion-forward city with impressive architecture and an underappreciated food scene. Don’t miss the Duomo, the Galleria, and The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (tickets book up fast!).

The Lakes Region

Lake Como is the star here—glamorous villas, mountain views, and chic lakeside towns like Bellagio and Varenna. A great retreat for couples or families wanting slower days.

Naples & Pompeii

Naples is gritty and chaotic but full of character—and the pizza is truly unmatched. Use it as a gateway to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the island of Capri.

Italian Food & Wine

Food in Italy is regional, passionate, and rooted in tradition. Every dish tells a story, and every region has its specialties.

Must-Try Dishes by Region

• Rome: Cacio e pepe, carbonara, Roman-style artichokes

• Florence: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, ribollita, Chianti

• Naples: Neapolitan pizza, sfogliatella, espresso

• Venice: Cicchetti (Venetian tapas), risotto nero, tiramisu

• Bologna (Emilia-Romagna): Tagliatelle al ragù, mortadella, Parmigiano Reggiano

• Sicily: Arancini, cannoli, caponata, Marsala wine

Wine Regions to Explore

• Tuscany: Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino

• Piedmont: Barolo, Barbaresco

• Veneto: Prosecco, Amarone

• Sicily: Nero d’Avola, Etna wines

• Umbria: Sagrantino, Orvieto Classico

Italian Culture & Customs

Italians are warm, expressive, and proud of their heritage. Life moves a little slower here—and that’s part of the charm. Meals are meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. People dress well, even when running errands. And family is central to everything.

Things to Know

• Greetings: Say “Buongiorno” during the day and “Buonasera” in the evening.

• Dining: Expect multiple courses, especially at dinner. Coperto (a small cover charge) is common at restaurants.

• Tipping: Not required but appreciated—round up or leave a few euros.

• Shopping: Many stores close for riposo (afternoon break) from around 1–4 p.m.

• Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Smart casual is the norm.

Where to Stay

Rome

• Luxury: Hotel de Russie, J.K. Place Roma

• Boutique: The Fifteen Keys Hotel, Nerva Boutique Hotel

• Family-Friendly: Hotel Artemide, apartments in Trastevere

Florence/Tuscany

• Luxury: Villa Cora, Four Seasons Firenze

• Vineyard Stays: Castello di Ama, Borgo Santo Pietro

• Budget: Hotel Davanzati, charming agriturismos

Amalfi Coast

• Luxury: Le Sirenuse (Positano), Belmond Hotel Caruso (Ravello)

• Mid-Range: Hotel Marincanto, Villa Maria

• Budget: B&B Casa Teresa, local guesthouses in Praiano

As your travel advisor, I can help match you with properties that fit your vibe—whether you're after a cliffside villa, vineyard estate, or city boutique hotel.

Safety & Travel Tips

Italy is safe and welcoming, but like anywhere with tourism, petty theft happens.

Travel Tips

• Pickpocketing: Be cautious on public transportation and near tourist hotspots.

• Transportation: Trains are excellent; rent a car if you're exploring the countryside.

• Driving: Cities can be chaotic—avoid driving in Rome or Naples unless you're experienced.

• Language: Italian is spoken, but many locals understand basic English, especially in tourist areas.

• Currency: Euro (€); cash is handy for small towns or rural restaurants.

• Visas: U.S. citizens can stay up to 90 days (Schengen rules apply).

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Best weather, fewer crowds

• Fall (September–October): Grape harvests, festivals, mild temperatures

• Summer (July–August): Peak tourism, hot temps—many locals vacation in August

• Winter (December–February): Great for cities and festive markets; quieter and more affordable

Why Italy?

Italy is a feast for the senses—whether you're wandering cobblestone streets, sipping wine at a countryside villa, or marveling at ancient ruins. There’s something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by beauty and history on such a scale. With the right planning, your Italian getaway can feel effortless, rich, and unforgettable. If you're not sure where to start, that’s where I come in. As your travel advisor, I’ll help you skip the overwhelm and plan a trip that reflects your style, your budget, and your dream version of la dolce vita.