Top 10 Must Visit Places

10 Region of Umbria (L’Umbria)

The Region of Umbria is the lovely land-locked region in the heart of Italy bordering Tuscany. With rolling landscapes dotted with chestnut trees, olive groves and wineries it is sure to delight many senses. Its history is vibrant with regards to both art and religion and is home to numerous Saints the most famous being St. Francis and St. Valentine.

What to See and Do Visit the city of Perugia, discover the hand-painted ceramics of Deruta, shop in Spello, attend the Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, and of course the town of Assisi where the famous St. Francis once lived.

When to Go May-October

What to Taste  Fresh Olive Oil and Local Wines

9 Region of Apulia (La Puglia)

The Region of Apulia is located in the South-Eastern part of the peninsula and is the gateway to Greece. Stunning views and surrounded by water as it is Italy’s “heel” make this region a desirable place for peace and tranquility from the busy-ness of the rest of Italy. It was once part of Greater Greece and contains a rich history of archaeological artifacts. Although it is a less traveled region we love it because it offers a perfect balance of history, relaxation, unique architecture, agricultural landscapes and seaside.

What to See and Do See the unique conical house called Trulli in and around Alberobello, the limestone caves at Altamura, relaxing on the Adriatic Coast Seaside or the Gulf of Taranto

When to Go April-November

What to Taste: Orecchiette pasta al ragù, along with local olive oils and wines

8 Cinque Terre and the Ligurian Coast (Cinque Terre e La Liguria)

Known for its rugged landscape and flora the quaint towns that make up the Cinque Terre is an area not to be missed. Literally meaning the Five Lands, this area is composed of five ancient fishing villages that are connected by walking paths. The area can be explored by foot or boat. Along the paths there are many breath-taking views and chances for photo ops.

When to Go May-November

What to See and Do Hike the nature trails connecting Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Also a visit to Porto Venere (Venus’ Port) and the beautiful city of Santa Margherita is a must if time permits.

What to Taste Wonderful seafood specialties caught fresh daily

7 Milan and Lake Como (Milano e Lago di Como)

Located in the Lombardy Region this is the financial and Industrial powerhouse and is home to world-class fashion or as it is known in Italian- la moda. This is a large and dynamic city of approx 1.5 million inhabitants. Nearby is charming Lago di Como a lake resort town which borders Switzerland and is a good compliment for rest and relaxation after days spent in the city shopping and sight-seeing.

When to Go Anytime

What to See and Do Stroll the famous Fashion Streets, visit the Duomo (cathedral), visit Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting The Last Supper, attend a performance at La Scala Opera House, take a boat ride on Lake Como, and visit the Silk Museum.

What to Taste Marzipan (almond paste) treats molded to resemble miniature fruits and animals.

6 Island of Sicily (La Sicilia)

The jewel of the South: Sicily and its ancient towns have seen many conquests. Greek, Roman and Arab Empires once dominated this area and Arabic and Greek influences are still highly visible today in both everyday culture and its people rendering its customs and traditions to be very different from that of mainland Italy. The people like the region are friendly and hospitable. Ancient ruins and well preserved archaeological sights, bustling cities, quiet countryside, crystal clear waters, miles of beaches, citrus groves and slower pace make this area a great place to relax and explore a different side of Italy.

When to Go January-May and September-December

What to See and Do Greek Amphitheatre in Taormina, Mount Etna volcano, the archaeological area of Siracusa, the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, the Historical District and local Market in Palermo, visit the town and beaches of Cefalu, sample local wines in the countryside, and visit the Aeolian Islands (located to the north of Sicily), and a visit to the active volcano on Stromboli Island.

What to Taste Hand-crafted Gelato (Italian Ice-cream), Granite and Sorbetti (ices and sorbets) made with local “exoctic” fruits and local ingredients. Another must are fresh oranges and sanguinelle- blood oranges and spremuta d’arancia (fresh orange juice).

5 Amalfi Coast (La Costieria Amalfitana)

This coast is deemed a Unesco World Heritage Site and is known for its rugged landscapes, beautiful vistas, turquoise waters and picturesque cliff side towns. Located in the Campagnia Region and on the Sorrentine Peninsula it is 1 hour west of Naples with Sorrento and Pompeii just to the North. Another popular attraction is a visit to the nearby Island of Capri.

When to Go April-October- avoid the entire month of August

What to See and Do Visit the ruins of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, relax on the beach, take a boat ride to Capri and explore the island, attend the Ravello Music Festival

What to Taste Limoncello, a locally made liquor of lemons and sugar. Head to Naples to the birthplace of Pizza and try the thin oven-fired pizzas still made the original way.

Venice(Venezia)

Located in the North East corner of Italy this floating city is as unique as places get. Known as La Serinissima- The Serene Republic Venetians created this lagoon in an effort to escape barbarians. Since no vehicles are allowed in the lagoon one must walk or take water transportation down the numerous canals that connect the area. Connected by bridges Venice is a delightful maze of crumbling buildings and artwork.

When to Go Anytime

What to See and Do St. Marks Square and the Doges Palace, drink a Bellini at Harry’s Bar, walk along the Rialto Bridge, take a Gondola Ride along the Canals, visit the neighboring Islands, attend Carnivale, shop for glass items known as Murano, attend the Opera at La Fenice.

What to Taste Try a specialty coffee at Caffe Florian (est. 1720) in Piazza San Marco was a popular hangout frequented by Casanova, Carlo Goldoni, Proust and Lord Byron.

3 Florence (Firenze)

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence was the home of many famed artists, poets and scientists of this period such as Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raffelo, Donatello, Botticelli, Giotto, Brunelleschi, Dante, Petrarca and Galileo to name a few. Florence is the capital of the Tuscan region and although is smaller than Rome and Milan it has a majestic and famed history which has made it one of Italy’s most visited places. This centre is best discovered on foot and can take days to explore its numerous museums, hundreds of churches, artwork and architecture. It arguably houses the best collection of masterpieces and artwork.

When to Go Anytime

What to See and Do Visit the statue of David at the Galleria Dell’Accademia, the masterpieces at the Uffizi Museum and Palazzo Vecchio, stroll down the Piazza della Signoria, take in the view of Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River, wander around the Boboli Gardens, visit the historic Palazzo Pitti, shop at the San Lorenzo Market, and explore the Duomo in the centre of town.

What to Taste Bistecca alla Fiorentina- Florentine grilled steak a hearty steak grille dto perfection, and Crostini, crusty bread topped with various delicacies such as artichokes, liver, mushrooms and olives.

2 Region of Tuscany (La Toscana)

The Tuscan landscape of rolling hills, olive groves, wineries, cypress trees, and its fortressed towns is known the world-over. Its people are open and inviting and it is a favorite place for travelers to flock to and discover time and time again. It offers beauty, history and culture with the perfect balance of town and country. It was once a political and economic power made up by independent city states the two largest being Florence and Siena. Before this the Etruscans dominated the area before being conquered by the Romans. Today the area’s main fame comes from agriculture: renowned wines, olive oils, Pecorino (cheese made from goats milk), beef, honey and tobacco for Tuscan Cigars. Many visit this area to learn the secrets of Italian cooking and wine production.

When to Go April to November

What to See and Do Drive through the rolling countryside, taste the famous wines of the Chianti and olive oils, discover the historical towns of San Gimignano, Siena, Cortona, Montepulciano and Arezzo, learn to cook regional dishes, stay at an Agriturismo or working farm, visit the famous spas (terme), and enjoy a relaxed pace

What to Taste Chianti Wines, olive oils, and a lesson or two cooking up local specialties with a local chef

1 Rome (Roma)

Also known as the Eternal City, Rome is the capital of Italy. Headquarter of the original Roman Empire; Rome is the quintessential Italian city. Home to approximately 3.5 million people, Rome is a unique metropolis where cultures and eras clash. Crammed with buildings both new and ancient the colorful past of the city reverberates through its people. The hubbub of daily life is enjoyed by tourists and locals alike and the traffic is astonishing.

What to See and Do The Coliseum, the ruins of the Forum, the fountains of Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, Villa Borghese, Castel Sant’Angelo and of course not to be missed the Vatican.

What to Taste The local flavors of Italian Dishes in the Trastevere District