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The best tourist guides for Italy .

Who are the best travel guides for Italy?

What to do in Italy?

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Article by Baldassarri Giuseppe Alberto Travel Planner Specialist for Trips to Italy. Discover the soul of the places and the Italian lifestyle, a traveler's experience with a sustainable and responsible itinerary.

Here are some of the top attractions you might consider visiting:

Italy is a country known for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you're planning a trip to Italy or simply want to learn more about the country, here are some travel guides that can help you make the most of your visit:

1. "Lonely Planet Italy (Travel Guide)": Lonely Planet is a trusted source for travel information, and their Italy guidebook offers comprehensive coverage of the country. It provides detailed information about popular destinations, transportation options, accommodation, dining, and sightseeing tips.

1. "Rick Steves Italy (Travel Guide)": Rick Steves is a popular travel author and television host known for his in-depth guides. His Italy guidebook offers a wealth of practical advice, cultural insights, and suggested itineraries to help you navigate the country like a local.

1. "DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide) : Italy": DK Eyewitness travel guides are known for their visually appealing format and detailed information. This guidebook provides maps, illustrations, and photographs to enhance your understanding of Italy's history, art, and architecture, along with practical travel advice.

1. "Fodor's Essential Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice & the Top Spots in Between (Full-color Travel Guide)": Fodor's is another well-known travel guide publisher, and their Essential Italy guidebook covers major cities, regions, and attractions. It includes recommendations for accommodations, dining, and sightseeing, as well as useful travel tips and suggested itineraries.

1. "National Geographic Traveler: Italy": National Geographic's Italy guide combines stunning photography with expert travel advice. It focuses on Italy's diverse regions, cultural heritage, and natural wonders, offering insights into less-visited destinations and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

1. "The Rough Guide to Italy (Travel Guide with Free eBook)": The Rough Guide series provides comprehensive and detailed information for independent travelers. Their Italy guidebook covers a wide range of destinations, from major cities to remote villages, and includes practical tips, maps, and cultural insights.

These travel guides can be found in major bookstores, and online retailers, or downloaded as e-books. They offer valuable information on Italy's attractions, transportation options, local customs, and practical tips to help you plan a memorable trip. Remember to check for the most up-to-date editions, as travel information can change over time. 

Here's some additional information about travel in Italy:

1. Regions and Cities: Italy is divided into 20 regions, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Some of the most popular regions to visit include Tuscany (known for its breathtaking landscapes and charming hilltop towns like Florence, Siena, and Pisa), Veneto (home to Venice and Verona), Lombardy (with Milan as its vibrant capital), and Campania (where you'll find Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and the ruins of Pompeii). Of course, there are many more regions worth exploring, each offering unique experiences.

1. Historical and Cultural Sites: Italy is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites. From ancient Roman ruins like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum in Rome to iconic landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, and the ruins of Pompeii near Naples, there's no shortage of fascinating historical sites to discover.

1. Art and Architecture: Italy is renowned for its art and architecture. The country is home to numerous world-class museums and art galleries, such as the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Galleria Borghese in Rome, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice. You can admire magnificent architectural wonders like the Duomo in Florence, the Cathedral of Milan, the Palazzo Ducale in Venice, and the iconic buildings of Rome, including the Pantheon and the Colosseum.

1. Cuisine and Wine: Italian cuisine is beloved worldwide, and exploring the country's culinary offerings is a delightful experience. From pizza in Naples to pasta in Bologna, gelato in Florence, and seafood in Sicily, each region boasts its own culinary specialties. Don't forget to pair your meals with Italy's world-famous wines, such as Chianti from Tuscany, Barolo from Piedmont, and Prosecco from the Veneto region.

1. Natural Beauty: Italy's natural landscapes are incredibly diverse. From the stunning lakes of Como, Garda, and Maggiore in the north to the picturesque Amalfi Coast in the south, Italy offers breathtaking scenery. The country also boasts beautiful national parks like Cinque Terre, the Dolomites, and the rugged beauty of the island of Sardinia.

1. Transportation: Italy has a well-developed transportation network, making it relatively easy to get around. Major cities are connected by trains, which are a convenient and popular mode of transportation. Italy also has an extensive bus network, especially for reaching smaller towns and rural areas. If you're exploring the countryside or coastal regions, renting a car can provide more flexibility.

Remember to check the latest travel information, including entry requirements, visa regulations, and any local guidelines or restrictions before your trip. Additionally, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic Italian phrases to make your interactions smoother and more enjoyable.

Italy offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you're interested in art and history, food and wine, or simply exploring scenic landscapes, Italy is sure to leave a lasting impression.

30-day itinerary To Italy and its surroundings and local food and wine specialties.

Here's a suggested 30-day itinerary to Italy and its surroundings, along with some local food and wine specialties to try along the way. This itinerary covers some of the major highlights of Italy, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences.

Day 1-3: Rome

- Explore the iconic landmarks of Rome, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon.

- Visit Vatican City to see St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

- Indulge in local specialties like spaghetti alla carbonara, supplì (fried rice balls), and gelato.

Day 4-5: Florence

- Discover the Renaissance art and architecture of Florence, including the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery.

- Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio and climb to the top of the Duomo for panoramic views.

- Taste traditional Tuscan dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), and Chianti wine.

Day 6-8: Cinque Terre and Italian Riviera

- Explore the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre, such as Monterosso and Vernazza.

- Hike along the scenic coastal trails or take a boat ride to admire the stunning views.

- Sample Ligurian cuisine, including focaccia, pesto sauce, and local seafood dishes, paired with Vermentino or Pigato wines.

Day 9-12: Venice

- Wander through the enchanting canals and visit famous sites like St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace.

- Take a gondola ride and get lost in the narrow streets of the city.

- Enjoy Venetian specialties like cicchetti (small tapas-style dishes), risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto), and Prosecco wine.

Day 13-16: Tuscany and Chianti Region

- Explore the charming towns of the Tuscan countryside, such as Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.

- Visit vineyards and wineries in the Chianti region, and sample renowned wines like Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino.

- Indulge in Tuscan cuisine, including pappardelle al cinghiale (pasta with wild boar sauce), ribollita, and cantucci (almond biscuits) with Vin Santo.

Day 17-20: Amalfi Coast and Naples

- Enjoy the breathtaking coastal views of the Amalfi Coast and visit towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

- Take a day trip to the island of Capri.

- Savor Neapolitan pizza, pasta alla Genovese, and sfogliatella pastries, along with local wines such as Lacryma Christi and Greco di Tufo.

Day 21-25: Sicily

- Explore the diverse attractions of Sicily, including the ancient ruins of Agrigento, the charming town of Taormina, and the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna.

- Sample Sicilian cuisine, such as arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma, cannoli, and Marsala wine.

Day 26-30: Lake Como and Milan

- Relax by the picturesque shores of Lake Como and visit the elegant town of Bellagio.

- Explore the fashion and cultural capital of Milan, including its famous cathedral (Duomo), La Scala opera house, and world-class shopping.

- Taste Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese, ossobuco (braised veal shanks), and panettone.

Remember to allocate travel time between destinations and consider using trains or domestic flights for longer distances. This itinerary provides a glimpse of Italy's diverse regions, historical sites, and culinary delights, allowing you to experience the country's rich cultural heritage.

Here are some additional details about the destinations mentioned in the 30-day itinerary:

1. Rome:

   - Don't miss the Vatican Museums, which house an extensive collection of art, including the famous Sistine Chapel.

   - Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Trastevere and Campo de' Fiori, known for their lively atmosphere, charming streets, and great dining options.

   - Try traditional Roman dishes like cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper), abbacchio (roast lamb), and Roman-style artichokes.

1. Florence:

   - Visit the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens for a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Florence's Medici rulers.

   - Explore the Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops and the stunning Basilica di Santo Spirito.

   - Indulge in Florentine delicacies like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), ribollita, and gelato from renowned gelaterias like Vivoli or Gelateria dei Neri.

1. Cinque Terre and Italian Riviera:

   - Take the scenic coastal hike between the five colorful villages of the Cinque Terre or opt for a leisurely boat ride.

   - Visit Portovenere, a picturesque town located just south of the Cinque Terre, known for its stunning views and historic sites.

   - Sample Ligurian seafood specialties like trofie al pesto (pasta with basil sauce), stuffed anchovies, and Sciacchetrà wine.

1. Venice:

   - Explore the quieter areas of Venice, away from the main tourist spots, to discover hidden gems and experience the local lifestyle.

   - Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano (famous for its glassblowing) and Burano (known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition).

   - Treat yourself to Venetian pastries such as frittelle (fried sweet fritters) and zaleti (cornmeal cookies), accompanied by a glass of Aperol Spritz.

1. Tuscany and Chianti Region:

   - Visit the charming town of San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and Vernaccia wine.

   - Explore the Val d'Orcia region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque towns like Montalcino and Pienza.

   - Enjoy a wine-tasting tour in the Chianti region, sampling different varieties of Sangiovese-based wines and pairing them with local cheeses and cured meats.

1. Amalfi Coast and Naples:

   - Take a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast to admire the stunning cliffs, colorful towns, and crystal-clear waters.

   - Visit the archaeological site of Pompeii, which offers a fascinating glimpse into life during ancient Roman times.

   - In Naples, try the city's famous pizza from pizzerias like Da Michele or Sorbillo, and savor traditional Neapolitan pastries like sfogliatelle and babà.

1. Sicily:

   - Explore the Greek temples of Agrigento, particularly the Valley of the Temples, which is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Sicily.

   - Visit the charming hilltop town of Taormina, known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and its ancient Greek Theater.

   - Delight in Sicilian desserts such as cannoli, cassata, and granita, and taste the region's renowned wines like Nero d'Avola and Marsala.

1. Lake Como and Milan:

   - Take a boat tour on Lake Como to admire the elegant villas and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

   - In Milan, visit the famous shopping district around Via Montenapoleone and explore the modern art collections at the Museo del Novecento.

   - Indulge in Milanese specialties like risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto), cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet), and panettone, a sweet bread typically enjoyed during the holiday season.

These destinations offer a wide range of experiences, from historical and cultural attractions to breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights. Remember to check the opening hours and availability of attractions, as well as any specific local events or festivals happening during your visit. Enjoy your journey through Italy!

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