Italy

Italy Travel Guide Contents

Click below to jump to the sections that interest you most! 👇

About Italy · Quick Facts · Highlights of Italy · Things to Do · Travel Tips · Italy Articles

About Italy

Italy is a country that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, foodie, fashionista, art lover, nature enthusiast, or sports fanatic.

Travelers who are interested in art, history, and culture would likely find Italy particularly appealing, as would food and wine lovers.

Quick Facts About Italy

• Population: 60.59 million
• Capital: Rome
• Languages: Italian, German, French, and Slovene
• Religion: Christianity (primarily Roman Catholic)
• Currency: Euro
• Area: 301,338 sq km
• Major Industries: Tourism, Agriculture, Fashion and Automotive Manufacturing
• National Dish: Pizza Margherita

Highlights of Italy

Art and Architecture

Italy is home to some of the world’s greatest artistic and architectural treasures, including the Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Vatican Museums.

Food and wine

Italian cuisine is famous for its variety, quality, and flavor. From pizza and pasta to gelato and wine, Italy has something to satisfy every palate.

History and heritage

Italy has a rich history and a wealth of historical sites to explore, from the ruins of ancient Rome to the medieval cities of Tuscany.

Nature and landscapes

Italy boasts stunning natural scenery, from the rugged coastline of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the majestic Dolomite Mountains.

Fashion and shopping

Italy is known for its high-end fashion brands and designer boutiques, making it a mecca for fashion-conscious travelers.

Beaches and coastal towns

Italy’s coastline offers a variety of beaches and picturesque coastal towns, such as the Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast.

Sports and outdoor activities

Italy offers a range of outdoor activities, including skiing in the Dolomites, hiking in the Cinque Terre, and cycling through Tuscany’s rolling hills.

Best activities, attractions, and things to do in Italy

1. Take a tour of the Colosseum: One of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, the Colosseum was once used for gladiator fights and public spectacles. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and a must-see destination!

2. Visit St Peter’s Basilica: Situated in the heart of Rome, St Peter’s Basilica is one of the world’s largest churches. Inside its grand interior are some of the most impressive pieces of Renaissance art and architecture.

3. Explore Pompeii: An ancient Roman city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD, Pompeii is a fascinating archaeological site that offers an incredible insight into Roman life.

4. Take a day trip to Florence: Home to some of the world’s greatest works of art and architecture, Florence is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. Visit its iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Firenze or take a stroll along the River Arno.

5. Explore Venice: Located in northern Italy and made up of over 100 small islands, Venice is one of the world’s most romantic destinations. Cruise around its canals on a gondola or explore its iconic landmarks such as St Mark’s Basilica!

6. Visit Assisi: Located in the heart of Umbria, Assisi is one of Italy’s most beautiful towns. Make sure to check out its impressive medieval architecture, as well as its various churches and monasteries!

7. Take a road trip through Tuscany: With its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages, Tuscany is one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Make sure to take a road trip through it for some unforgettable views!

8. Visit the Amalfi Coast: Featuring stunning cliffs and crystal blue waters, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Take a boat trip along it to check out its many hidden coves and beaches.

9. Explore the Cinque Terre: Located on the Italian Riviera, the Cinque Terre is a picturesque region made up of five colorful villages that cling to steep hillsides. Take a day trip here for some amazing views!

10. Take a cooking class: Italy is known for its delicious food and what better way to experience it than by taking a cooking class? Learn how to make everything from the classic Margherita pizza to decadent desserts!

Visiting Italy: What to know before you go

📌 The official language is Italian and most Italians speak at least basic English. It could be helpful to know a few basic phrases in Italian before visiting as well.

📌 Common phrases like “hello” (ciao) “good morning” (buongiorno), “goodbye” (arrivederci), “please” (Per favore), and “thank you” (grazie) can go a long way in making your visit smoother.

📌 When it comes to sightseeing in Italy, it’s important to know that most attractions have entrance fees so make sure you bring enough money for them. It’s also important to keep an eye on the time as many places close in the early evening.

📌 Italy is known for its cuisine and it’s important to remember that restaurants may not open until late in the day, especially during lunch hours. Some restaurants also offer set menus at cheaper rates so make sure you ask about these options.

📌 The climate in Italy is generally mild, with most of the country experiencing hot summers and cold winters. Rainfall tends to be higher in the north, while the south gets a lot of sunshine. Clothing should be layered accordingly and an umbrella or raincoat is a must.

📌 Traveling around Italy is relatively easy, with a good network of roads and train services covering the country. However, some areas are not very well served by public transport so it’s best to check ahead if you plan on taking a train or bus.

Italy Articles