Italy: a Mediterranean playground of intricate architecture, astonishing art, inventive cuisine, and wine so pure it’ll change your entire outlook on life. Whether you’re looking to experience city life or venture into the mountains, here are 20 reasons you need to visit Italy:
Rome’s Spanish Steps have inspired generations of poets, artists, and filmmakers.
Florence’s iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore boasts the largest masonry dome in the world.
Gondolas are the cool way to travel.
Medieval hilltop towns dot Tuscany, one of the most renowned wine regions in the world.
Milan’s Duomo Cathedral features 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles, and 700 figures on its stunning facade.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not the city’s only tilting landmark.
With its centuries-old olive trees, picturesque Lake Garda produces some of the best olive oil in the world.
Built in the third century, the Greek Taormina Theater in Sicily has hosted musicians, dancers, drama performances, and gladiator games.
The vineyard walk in Cinque Terre’s hillside Manarola will change your life.
UNESCO-listed Verona features a range of open-air archaeological sites and ancient structures.
Orta San Giulio in Piedmont has it all: steep cobblestone lanes, hidden gardens, ornate courtyards, and spectacular lake views.
Castles seem to sprout from the forests of Bologna.
The sleepy hillside town of Santa Maddalena affords incredible views of the Dolomite Mountains.
There lake views are simply astounding, like this glimpse of Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore
From fresh carbonara to ravioli and lasagna, Italy has a pasta calling your name.
Gelato. ‘Nuff said.
Sizzling, authentic Italian pizza is the stuff of dreams.
Wine. Everywhere.
Estate gardens are the stuff of dreams.
There’s color everywhere: azure seas, bright villages, rich golden sun.
