Explore Italy
WHEN TO GO
The climate varies throughout the year. The summer months (June – August) are the most popular time to visit. The days are warmer with less rain, perfect for exploring. Dine outside under a twilight sky or enjoy some of the many exciting outdoor theatres.
During spring (March – May), the landscape changes and the days are still warm. This is a great time to attend some of the local spring festivals.
The winter season (December – February), sees much shorter days and cold conditions, often with rain, perfect for a warming hot chocolate at one of the many Christmas markets.
In autumn (September – November), the hues begin to change as the milder weather sets in.
SCENIC DRIVES
For breathtakingly beautiful scenic drives, it’s hard to beat Italy. Cruise the picturesque Amalfi Coast for views across the Mediterranean Sea. Traverse the Tuscan countryside for rolling hills and endless vineyards, the Great Dolomites Road for gorgeous mountain vistas, or venture to the Italian Lakes for picture-perfect Italian Villas with crystalline water backdrops. Experienced drivers will love the challenge of the Stelvio Pass. Travelling by road is
undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the region at your own pace, so why not hire a car and see for yourself.
FOOD & WINE
Coffee, cured meats, cheese, gelato, limoncello and local wines – your tastebuds will be delighted no matter where you go in Italy. Every corner of Italy has its own delicious local dish or delicacies. Try a traditional pizza margherita in Naples, cannoli in Palermo, orecchiette con cime di rapa in Puglia. Genoa is the home of pesto and risotto ai porcini is a classic dish in Piedmont which is also home of the truffle. Sip on Chianti in Tuscany or Prosecco
in the Veneto region. Keep an eye out for fresh food markets in main cities which offer a taste of the local cuisine.
ICONIC LANDMARKS
Italy is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Get a photo ‘propping up’ the Leaning Tower of Pisa, people watch at the Trevi Fountain and view the awe-inspiring Colosseum in Rome. Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome of Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore for spectacular views over the city. Vibrant Piazza San Marco in Venice is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Italy, including St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Discover the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Leave a letter for Juliet in the courtyard beneath the famous Juliet balcony in Verona.
ITALIAN VILLAS AND RELAIS
If you’re looking for something a little different this holiday, why not live ‘la dolce vita’ in an Italian villa or relais. Our accommodation options range from traditional trulli houses in Puglia to cosy bed and breakfasts in Tuscany, ideal for self-catering and fully embracing the Italian way of life. While some of these properties are located close to major cities most are not within easy reach of public transport. We recommend hiring a car to experience everything each region has to offer.
CHURCHES & CATHEDRALS
Italy is famous for its countless spectacular churches and cathedrals. Admire the Basilica of St. Paul in Rome, be sure to visit the Vatican Museum as well, Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel should not be missed. Marvel at the extravaganza of mosaics, some dating back to 1070 at St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice. Siena’s Duomo complex is almost like going to an art museum with works from Donatello, Pisano, Pinturicchio, and Michelangelo. Head to the rooftop terrace at Milan’s Duomo for spectacular city views and an up close look at its unique architecture.
WORLD-CLASS SHOPPING
Italy is without a doubt one of most fashionable countries in the world. Shop on Milan’s iconic Golden Rectangle – a bustling tangle of streets tightly packed with high-end brands. Take a trip down Via Monte Napoleone and find the
flagship Gucci store. Shop for Chanel along Via Sant’Andrea and look out for Dolce and Gabbana on Via della Spiga. Don’t miss the Armani Megastore on via Manzoni. For designer bargains, head to the outlets, two of the popular options are Fidenza Outlet Village just an hour from Milan and Outlet di Barberino, an easy day trip from Florence.
