Italy

Art, history, gastronomy and landscapes that surprise in every region.

Discover ancient cities, lively modern metropolises, and an art that keeps history and culture alive.

Map of Italy guides

    Italy offers you a great diversity of experiences, from cities steeped in history to nature reserves more breathtaking than you could imagine.

    In this guide, we help you plan your trip from start to finish.

    What type of travel are you looking for in Italy?

    • Culture and art → Rome, Florence, Venice
    • Sea and nature → Cinque Terre, Costa Amalfitana, Sicily, Puglia
    • Lakes and mountains → Lago di Garda, Lago di Como, Dolomites
    • Villages and traditions → Tuscany, Umbria

    The great regions of Italy

    In the north the region has its own character and landscapes worth discovering. In the centre, the equilibrium between art and landscape is without equal.

    In the south, the contrast, intensity and Mediterranean make it unique.

    Northern Italy: lakes, mountains and cities

    The north of Italy is one of the most unique areas of the peninsula, ranging from the Alps to the plain of the Po river.

    Cities like Lombardy, Milan and Turin are home to some of the most important collections of art in the world. Nearby is the Veneto, a region of great contrasts, from Venice to smaller equally fascinating towns. Also nearby is Piedmont, a province less known than its neighbours but that rewards with its own character.

    Finally, in the east, the areas known as the Trentino-Alto Adige offer stunning landscapes and a culture influenced by both Italian and Central European traditions.

    Central Italy: balance between art, landscape and tradition

    The centre represents one of the best-known postcard images of Italy.

    In Tuscany, the rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and the accessibility of its products make an unforgettable experience possible for any type of traveller.

    Lazio, home to one of the most visited cities per capita in the world, offers ancient ruins, museums, churches and modern energy without ever stopping.

    In central areas like Umbria and the Marche, a more intimate Italy reveals itself, far from the crowds.

    Southern Italy: contrast, intensity and Mediterranean

    The south has a stronger character, more genuine and less predictable.

    In regions like Campania, a blend of sea, cities, villages and cuisine come together to create an experience unlike any other. Puglia is an area of white houses, endless olive groves and kilometres of untouched coastline. Also here, Calabria, a land less covered by tourism, begins to attract visitors who want to discover the real Italy.

    Islands of Italy: their own character

    The Italian islands offer experiences that in some ways surpass the mainland.

    Sicily is the largest and most complex island. Its varied landscape, stratified culture and cuisine make it a destination in its own right. Sardinia, with its turquoise sea, rocky interior and a distinct language and traditions, is a place apart. The smaller islands — from Elba to Lipari, from Pantelleria to Capri — each have their own character and are perfect for a more exclusive getaway.

    When to travel to Italy

    Each season offers a different experience of the country, so the best time depends on the type of journey.

    Spring and summer are ideal for the coast, but autumn can be perfect for the cities and interior.

    How to get around Italy

    The train network connects the main cities efficiently. The motorway network is broad and well maintained. For smaller towns, the car can be essential. For some places, only on foot.

    Italy in Brief

    🇮🇹 Country in southern Europe

    • Historic cities and unique cultural heritage
    • Gastronomic tradition recognised worldwide
    • Varied landscapes: sea, mountains, lakes and hills
    • Easy to explore by train or car
    IN THIS PAGE

    More information about Italy

    The gateway to knowing all the regions, with the most important destinations highlighted.

    Sardinia

    Puglia