Italy: Home of the Romans
If you are keen on history, nature, a warm climate and ice cream then Italy is the place for you. The home of the Romans from years gone by is easily accessible from around the world, and there’s always something interesting to see and do.
Italy’s multi-millennial culture, broad-ranging history, world famous foods and friendly people have earned it a place on many a bucket list.
When to go
Italy’s year-round climate and warm weather, even throughout the winter months, means you can visit throughout the year. The best months to visit, however, are between March and the end of May, when the weather is comfortably warm.
Winter lasts from November to February. During these months, except around Christmas and the New Year, there are fewer tourists, and prices could be considerably lower. Rains can be heavy in autumn and winter, so be prepared, but the days are often warm and humid.
Rome
The Italian capital has been a favourite of tourists for centuries, given its many historic buildings and monuments, relaxed culture, and award-winning foods. Attractions include the historic Colosseum, numerous gelateria (ice-cream) shops, and opulent hotels that surround the millennia year old attractions. Rome is just as interesting at night as during the day, with top bands and plays being hosted by the city’s many bars, nightclubs, and theatres.
Milan
Located in the north of the country, Milan is famous for its many high-end fashion boutiques, award-winning gastronomic scene, smartly dressed locals and domineering buildings; and not forgetting its successful football teams. The main tourist activity in Milan is shopping in the hundreds of fashion streets lining the central thoroughfares. Versace, Valentino, Armani, and many other well-respected brands call Milan home, and thus dominate the city’s shopping scene. It will become obvious why Milan is known as the fashion, shopping and architecture capital of Europe.
Venice
No other city in Italy attracts as much international interest as Venice; the city of green lagoons, 118 islands and gondolas. This World Heritage city is one of bridges, unique architecture rising from the murky waters, and singing boatmen rowing loved-up couples from one part of the city to another. The Venice Commune is definitely an unforgettable experience to be savoured before the waters engulf the city.
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Italian highlights not to miss
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Eating locally made ice cream on the Spanish Steps in the centre of Rome, whilst watching the world go by.
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Taking a gondola ride along the many winding lagoons through Venice as the gondolier sings a classic Italian ballad.
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Standing atop the highest point in the Colosseum in Rome and imagining the crowds of spectators and battles that once took place here.
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Visiting the ruins of Pompeii which was engulfed by the lava of Mount Vesuvius in the year 79 AD. The city, including its frightened people, has been well preserved in volcanic ash.
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Visit the Vatican City and explore the historic home of the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. Step foot across the threshold and you’re no longer in Italy; and be sure to look out for the colourfully dressed Swiss guards.