Rome
What amazes you about Rome is not only the Colosseum, Forum of Augustus, Trevi Fountain, Capitoline Hill, the Roman Forum, and Vatican City, but also the art atmosphere in every corner. There are a thousand Romes in a thousand travelers’ eyes. This “Eternal City” is just like an open-air museum, showing its architectural masterpieces and exquisite artworks to all the visitors. Whether you are interested in Roman history or just skimming the surface, you will never feel disappointed here.
Best time to visit: spring, early fall
Recommended days: 3 days
Colosseum
Florence
When someone mentions the Renaissance, it’s hard to skip Florence. As the capital of Tuscany, there are many things to do in Florence: from appreciating famous paintings like Birth of Venus in the Uffizi Gallery to lingering on the romantic Ponte Vecchio, overlooking the Arno River for hundreds of years, from discovering multitudinous Renaissance arts in the Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti) to enjoying the breathtaking sunset in Piazzale Michelangelo. Of course, you will not miss the landmark – Florence Duomo.
Best time to visit: April, May, September, October
Recommended days: 2 days
Venice
Venice, you won’t understand why this small city is so popular until you are there. Do remember to leave some leisure time to explore this charming place. You must have heard about the Grand Canal. No one wants to miss a gondola experience on this wide, serpentine waterway. The impressive landmarks include Saint Mark’s Square and Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and Rialto Bridge. Besides, if you travel in February or March, you will encounter the most famous festival in Venice – the Venice Carnival.
Best time to visit: April, early May, October
Recommended days: 3 days
Naples
If you are a foodie, you must stay in Naples for some days to savor the delicious food, such as spaghetti, parmigiana, pastries, and fresh seafood. Don’t forget to join a pizza-making class. You may already know how to make a pizza, but the secrets of pizza-making from local experts perhaps you can only learn in this class. This famous historic city also offers many surprises: National Archaeological Museum of Naples, Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro), San Carlo Opera House, Mount Vesuvius…And strolling along the Spaccanapoli will be a highlight of your tour in Naples.
Best time to visit: all year round
Recommended days: 2 days
Sicily
Sicily, located at the “toe” of Italy’s “boot,” is the Mediterranean’s largest island and offers a wealth of experiences. Here, you can marvel at the ancient Valley of the Temples, showcasing majestic Doric-style Greek temples, and discover the Cappella Palatina in Palermo, adorned with exquisite Byzantine mosaics. Take a relaxing vacation by enjoying crystal-clear waters and golden beaches. Additionally, you can indulge in summer hiking or winter skiing in Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. This multi-faceted destination promises something unique for every traveler.
Best time to visit: all year round
Recommended days: 5-8 days
Sardinia
No matter how many days you plan to stay, leave some time for your beach holiday. Sardinia is one of the best choices in Italy. Turquoise water and white-sand beaches are enough to make Sardinia unforgettable, not to mention relaxing on the deck of a private yacht to enjoy private leisure time. Nuragic ruins are also well-known places that you can’t miss. One bonus in your Sardinia trip is that you will have a chance to meet the shepherds wearing traditional clothing and doing cheese-making in small medieval towns.
Best time to visit: May to September
Recommended days: 5-7 days
Tuscany
Besides the capital Florence, Tuscany has many other wonderful places to visit: wineries, rugged landscapes, ancient Nuragic ruins, etc. The awesome landscape in Tuscany makes it famous. What makes it more attractive is the wineries and superb restaurants. Imagine you are sitting in an ancient castle or an exquisite villa, tasting aromatic wines and palatable food, facing the lush vineyard. If you are interested in medieval towers, drop a visit to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best time to visit: spring, fall
Recommended days: 5-8 days
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, meaning five fishing villages, is comprised of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso, and Corniglia. Surrounding green hills, these five villages offer many hidden gems. Connecting with five villages, the Blue Trail is a paved trail suitable for all ages. You can see pink, yellow, and blue houses hugging slopes down to the sea. The best way to explore this jaw-dropping place is on foot. Slow down and take in this picture-perfect destination.
Best time to visit: April to October
Recommended days: 2 days
Amalfi Coast
Have you ever seen pastel-colored towns perched on cliff sides, overlooking the deep blue of the Mediterranean? Along the Amalfi Coast, such breathtaking views await you. Take a hike on the scenic Path of the Gods trail to witness the glamour of the Amalfi Coast; visit some of the 13 seaside towns to discover the unique charm of each; hang out in a fishing village, or stroll through winding alleys and soak up the authentic Italian atmosphere. Experience the authentic Italian style is the right way for your Amalfi Coast tour. Positano and Amalfi are the must-visit places that you will never feel disappointed.
Best time to visit: late spring to early fall (late September and early October)
Recommended days: 3 days
