Are you tired of deadlines, or bored of gloomy grey skies? If you’ve had enough and you’re dreaming of an exotic escape, why not embrace la dolce vita, and head to Italy this summer?
Do history and culture and breathtaking landscapes sound appealing? Are endless supplies of exquisite traditional dishes and fine wines your cup of tea. If so, Italy is calling!
Italy is a land of contrasts and it has something for every holidaymaker. Stunning seaside resorts make for memorable family breaks. Chic city breaks are an ideal choice for couples and groups of friends. Intrepid travellers will thrive in the Alps and Dolomites. If you’re planning an Italian adventure, here are just some of the highlights you may wish to include in your travel plans.
Rome
Rome is the obvious place to start if you’re thinking of booking a romantic weekend away. A marvellous city, Rome offers you the chance to travel back in time and enjoy some of the most stunning architecture in the world. Get your comfy shoes on and pound the pavements. There’s something to see around every corner. Don’t miss the Trevi Foundation or the Spanish Steps. Channel your inner gladiator at the Colosseum, and learn how the Romans lived at the Forum. Tour the Vatican Museums and visit beautiful St Peter’s Basilica. Enjoy lazy lunches and some of the best ice creams you’ll ever taste.
Liguria
They say the best things come in small packages and this is certainly true when it comes to Liguria. Small, but perfectly formed, you’ll find blissful beach resorts along the Liguria coast. Head into Genoa to discover a bustling cultural scene. The seaside towns retain an old-fashioned charm, and boast sophisticated riviera-style eateries and cafes. The promenades come to life in the summer, when crowds swell.
Tuscany
If you’re after an authentic Italian retreat, look no further than the rolling fields and rustic farmhouses of Tuscany. Relax and enjoy the tranquillity and the utopia-like scenery. Discover some of Italy’s most famous cities and sights, with day trips to Florence, Siena and Pisa. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to museums and galleries. Don’t restrict your tourist antics to taking photos outside the infamous Leaning Tower. Brave the heart-stopping heights and narrow staircases to climb to the top of the Duomo in Florence and stroll through Il Campo in Siena.
Venice
No guide to Italy would be complete without a mention of Venice. The beauty of this unique city has to be seen to be believed. Get lost in the labyrinth of winding passages and bridges and visit the majestic Piazza San Marco. Catch the ferry over to Burano and treat yourself to a gondola ride at dusk. Try to avoid July and August to avoid throngs of tourists and stifling heat.
Italy is a truly beautiful country, which has so much to offer visitors of all ages. If you’re sick of the daily grind, why not book yourself a trip, and start counting down the days to your Italian escape?
