A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Spoleto is a captivating walled medieval hill town located in the heart of Italy’s Umbria region. Rich in history, Spoleto has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with its oldest walls dating back to the 6th century BC. The original Roman settlement, known asSpoletium, began around 241 BC and remnants of Roman architecture still grace the historic center.
For those who want something more than the usual tour, Rome has a myriad of options. You can tour Rome on a vintage Vespa or in a Fiat 500. Take the family on a tour designed for children, become a gladiator for a day, go underground at the Colosseum, or enjoy an after-hours visit to the Sistine Chapel with these unique tours.
Where to See Sites and Churches from the Life of Saint Francis
1. Saint Peter’s Basilica – Vatican City (Rome)
Italy has many interesting monasteries and abbeys that can be visited, ranging from evocative ruins to monasteries still in use today where you can take a tour, have lunch, or sometimes even spend the night. They’re often set in beautiful locations. Here are the top ten monasteries to visit in Italy.
Doge’s Palace, also known as the Palazzo Ducale, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Venice. Located on the grand Piazza San Marco, this palace served as the residence of the Doge (ruler of Venice) and functioned as the center of power for the Venetian Republic for over 1,000 years. It is now a prominent museum that attracts countless visitors each year.
With its assorted architectural features, including five domes, turrets, multicolored columns, and sparkling mosaics, Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice is a jewel box of a building both inside and out. Along with the Doge’s Palace,Basilica San Marcoserves as the ornamental focal point of Piazza San Marco and one of Venice’s must-see attractions.
One of the top Venice day trips for tourists is a visit to one or more of the islands in the Venetian lagoon. This guide explores the must-visit islands in Venice, including how to reach them.
Taormina, Sicily, has been one of the Italian islands’ top travel destinations since the era of the European Grand Tour. During this period, wealthy young men, including celebrated English poets and painters, traversed the classical sites of Italy and Greece. Consequently, Taormina emerged as Sicily’s first beach resort.
Pitigliano, located in the Maremma region of southern Tuscany, is dramatically perched on a tufa ridge. Known as “Little Jerusalem” for its ancient Jewish quarter established in the 16th century, the area boasts underground caves and tunnels, along with Etruscan tombs scattered throughout the cliffs.
Located in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, Saint Peter’s Square orPiazza San Pietrois one of the most iconic squares in Italy, functioning as a significant gathering place for tourists visiting the sights of Vatican City. Named after Saint Peter, an apostle of Jesus who is revered by many Catholics as the first Pope, this square is seen as an integral part of Rome. From St. Peter’s Square, visitors can view the Papal Apartments, which consist of the Pope’s living quarters and the area where he often addresses large crowds of pilgrims.
As one of the most important churches of the Catholic faith and the second-largest church in the world, Saint Peter’s Basilica is one of the top sights to see in Vatican City and in all of Rome. With its impressive dome, the focal point of Rome’s cityscape, and its ornate interior, Saint Peter’s is, without a doubt, pleasing to the eye. For many, it is the highlight of a visit to Rome, and with good reason.
The Vatican Museums are a treasure trove of art and history, boasting priceless artworks from Egyptian and Roman antiquities to Renaissance masterpieces.
The Veneto is a gem of a region situated in the northeast corner of Italy. Bordered by the stunning Lake Garda to the west, the majestic Dolomite Mountains to the north, and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea to the east, the landscape of Veneto is both rich and varied. From the grandeur of the historic city of Venice to the medieval charm of Bassano del Grappa, and continuing to Belluno, a captivating town serving as a gateway to the Dolomites, the Veneto presents an enthralling region for exploration.
Venice, renowned as one of Italy’s top travel cities, is the jewel of the Veneto region. However, there’s much more to explore beyond Venice. From the historic city of Verona, famous for its Roman Arena, to the stunning Palladian villas, serene lakes, and charming mountain towns, here are the best destinations in the Veneto region.
Venice is one of Italy’s most beloved destinations—its romantic St. Mark’s Plaza, gondolas floating on the serene canals, and incredible cuisine draw travelers from all over. However, with its fame comes crowds; therefore, visiting during the off-season is advisable if you want to enjoy a quieter experience. November is an excellent time to visit as the peak tourist season winds down, and hotels reduce their rates. Just be sure to pack some extra layers for the brisk weather and cool evenings.
Discover the enchanting city of Verona, known for its rich history and cultural attractions. This guide provides insights into the Verona Card, which allows visitors to explore key sites conveniently and affordably.
Viareggio is the southernmost Italian Riviera resort on Italy’s Mediterranean coast and the largest beach town in Tuscany. This vibrant town features Liberty-style buildings housing shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants along its promenade. In addition, several notable Liberty-style villas can be found, including one built by the famous composer Puccini.
Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Italy. Enjoy warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists compared to summer, making it an ideal time for travel. However, be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Your Guide to Experiencing Italy’s Food, Festivals, and Beaches
