Planning the Perfect Italian Getaway

Italy is a fantastic choice for virtually any type of vacation. It’s a beautiful country with plenty of perfect locations for a romantic getaway for two. It’s a major culinary destination for tourists with different palates, from picky eaters to foodies to professional chefs. It’s a cultural centerpiece that’s well known for the quintessential history, architecture, music and artwork that have influenced the rest of the world for thousands of years. Italy is a land with a lot to offer. While you have several options when it comes to planning your visit, here are the top spots most visitors agree you just can’t miss.

Rome

Tours of Italy are usually going to include a stop in Rome, and for good reason. This historical area was the most powerful city in the world for centuries. You’ll find some of the most breathtaking, inspiring and influential sites from history here, including Vatican City, the Colosseum and the Sistine Chapel. Known as the Eternal City, Rome is also home to the iconic Trevi Fountain and several ancient ruins.

Tuscany

If your picture of Italy includes rolling green hills, lush olive trees and picturesque vineyards, you’re thinking of Tuscany. In addition to plenty of quiet and breathtaking countryside, the region is also home to Florence, which is known for its Renaissance art and architecture, making it one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s also where you can visit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the cities of Siena and Lucca.

Venice

The waterways and canals of Venice certainly make it one of the most unique destinations on earth. Travel by boat to the city’s hub of Piazza San Marco, where you can visit the gorgeous St. Mark’s Basilica. The Bridge of Sighs is another popular stop, made of brilliant white limestone. You can also visit the island of Murano, where Venetian glass making is a popular art form that’s famous worldwide.

Pompeii

The city of Pompeii was destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It was covered very quickly in a layer of volcanic ash, so much of the ruins were well-preserved, making it one of the best destinations to view ancient ruins today. In fact, the city is still considered an active archaeological dig site. The Villa of the Mysteries and the Temple of Apollo are must-see stops at this incredible journey back in time.

With so much to see and do, Italy is certain to become a favorite destination for sightseers of every age. Be sure to plan ahead to get the most out of your visit.