Italy
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Latest page update: 10 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where is
Where is Italy?
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When we think of Italy we're drawn by a number of aspects and chief among those is history. If we think of its most iconic sight, the Colosseum, we're immediately transported to to Ancient Rome while two of its other major cities are so strongly linked to later historical periods such as Medieval Venice and Renaissance Florence.
However, Italy as we know it today is a relatively modern country whose unification dates back no more than 160 years to the Risorgimento of 1861. Italy is located in southern Europe, extending into the Mediterranean Sea. |
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The country is characterised by its boot-shaped peninsula, which is bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the east, the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, and the Ionian Sea to the south. Italy is separated from France to the northwest by the Alps, and it shares borders with Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia to the north.
Italia
What People Ask About Italy
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Discover Italy
The Risorgimento was led by the charismatic leader Giuseppe Garibaldi along with two instrumental politicians: Camilo Cavour and Giuseppe Mazzini. As part of the unification, the new Italy had a capital city of Turin which is now the capital of the Piedmont region, and the ruling Duke of Savoy, suddenly became King of Italy: Vittorio Emanuele II.
Those four names highlighted above are hugely significant in Italy; at the time of the unification, the country's biggest challenge was indeed to unite the people. The people of Sicily for example had very little knowledge of what went on in far-away Piedmont with its different language and culture. Part of the unification process was to glorify the above names, linked so heavily with the Risorgimento, and to create a sense of shared history. So now when you visit any Italian city you'll find there's probably a Piazza Garibaldi or a Piazza Cavour, a Via Mazzini or a Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. When the streets and squares aren't named after them, there's likely to be a museum or a park.
It's important to be aware of the not too distant history of the unified Italy in order to understand how the country is laid out now in modern times. Italy is divided into twenty regions including for example Tuscany, Lombardy and Puglia. The country's two largest islands, Sicily and Sardinia are also included among those 20 regions. With just a few exceptions, each Region then has a number of Provinces within it which are typically named after one of the major cities in that region. The city of Livorno in Tuscany for example is the capital city of Livorno Province. Until recently, the naming system of the provinces also applied to the major cities but the likes of "Naples Province" or "Bari Province", recently changed to the Metropolitan City of Naples and the Metropolitan City of Bari respectively, but these "Metropolitan Cities" refer to the province rather than the city itself.
The region with the most provinces is Lombardy which has 12, followed by Tuscany which has 10. Generally-speaking, the smaller the region, the smaller the number of provinces there are within it. The region of Valle d'Aosta whose capital city is Aosta doesn't have any provinces while Basilicata, Molise, Umbria and Trentino Alto-Adige each have two apiece.
So at the top of the hierarchy there's the Region which has a number of Provinces within it, and then the provinces are divided up into a series of communes, "comuni" in Italian. The comuni are the largest towns within each province and therefore there's a much higher number of these with nearly 8,000 in total across Italy. The categorisation goes still further with the smallest villages classed as "frazioni" (like fractions), within each "comune" (the singular form of "comuni").
For a full breakdown of the Regions and Provinces of Italy scroll a little further down the page.
Those four names highlighted above are hugely significant in Italy; at the time of the unification, the country's biggest challenge was indeed to unite the people. The people of Sicily for example had very little knowledge of what went on in far-away Piedmont with its different language and culture. Part of the unification process was to glorify the above names, linked so heavily with the Risorgimento, and to create a sense of shared history. So now when you visit any Italian city you'll find there's probably a Piazza Garibaldi or a Piazza Cavour, a Via Mazzini or a Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. When the streets and squares aren't named after them, there's likely to be a museum or a park.
It's important to be aware of the not too distant history of the unified Italy in order to understand how the country is laid out now in modern times. Italy is divided into twenty regions including for example Tuscany, Lombardy and Puglia. The country's two largest islands, Sicily and Sardinia are also included among those 20 regions. With just a few exceptions, each Region then has a number of Provinces within it which are typically named after one of the major cities in that region. The city of Livorno in Tuscany for example is the capital city of Livorno Province. Until recently, the naming system of the provinces also applied to the major cities but the likes of "Naples Province" or "Bari Province", recently changed to the Metropolitan City of Naples and the Metropolitan City of Bari respectively, but these "Metropolitan Cities" refer to the province rather than the city itself.
The region with the most provinces is Lombardy which has 12, followed by Tuscany which has 10. Generally-speaking, the smaller the region, the smaller the number of provinces there are within it. The region of Valle d'Aosta whose capital city is Aosta doesn't have any provinces while Basilicata, Molise, Umbria and Trentino Alto-Adige each have two apiece.
So at the top of the hierarchy there's the Region which has a number of Provinces within it, and then the provinces are divided up into a series of communes, "comuni" in Italian. The comuni are the largest towns within each province and therefore there's a much higher number of these with nearly 8,000 in total across Italy. The categorisation goes still further with the smallest villages classed as "frazioni" (like fractions), within each "comune" (the singular form of "comuni").
For a full breakdown of the Regions and Provinces of Italy scroll a little further down the page.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Italy
Just a little taster
- Rome and the Colosseum form the heart of Italy’s ancient and cultural heritage, with iconic landmarks such as the Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican City. The Eternal City blends archaeological ruins with Renaissance and Baroque churches, museums, and lively piazzas like Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona.
- Florence and the Uffizi Gallery represent the birthplace of the Renaissance, with world-famous artworks by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. The city’s Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio define its historic skyline, while its compact centre is ideal for walking between museums and churches.
- Venice and the Grand Canal offer a unique cityscape of islands, bridges, and canals. St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge are major highlights, with traditional gondolas and vaporetti navigating the waterways between art-filled churches and hidden courtyards.
- Milan and the Last Supper showcase Italy’s modern edge and artistic legacy. The city is a global capital for fashion and design, home to the Duomo, La Scala opera house, and Leonardo’s Last Supper, alongside cutting-edge architecture in areas like Porta Nuova and CityLife.
- Amalfi Coast and the Cliffside Towns feature pastel villages such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello set above the Tyrrhenian Sea. Terraced hillsides, coastal trails like the Path of the Gods, and lemon groves define the area, with boat trips to Capri and nearby beaches along the way.
- Cinque Terre and the Coastal Walks consist of five colourful villages perched on cliffs above the Ligurian Sea. Linked by hiking paths and train lines, places like Vernazza and Manarola are known for their narrow streets, sea views, and vineyards clinging to the hillsides.
- Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius reveal life in a Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of 79 AD. Visitors can explore streets, houses, and frescoes preserved under volcanic ash, while nearby Herculaneum offers even more detailed remains. Trails lead up to the crater of Mount Vesuvius for panoramic views.
- Tuscany and the Hill Towns blend countryside charm with Renaissance heritage. Beyond Florence and Siena, towns like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Pienza offer cobbled streets, wine tasting, and sweeping views over the Val d’Orcia. The region is also known for thermal springs and regional cuisine.
- Sicily and the Valley of the Temples combine island landscapes with Greek, Roman, and Norman legacies. Highlights include Mount Etna, the cities of Palermo and Catania, and archaeological sites such as Segesta and Selinunte, while coastal towns like Taormina and Cefalù attract visitors with beaches and historical theatres.
- Sardinia and the Costa Smeralda feature white-sand beaches, turquoise seas, and Bronze Age remains such as nuraghi stone towers. The island’s north is known for exclusive resorts, while inland regions preserve local traditions, prehistoric sites, and a rugged natural landscape ideal for hiking and exploration.
Photo Gallery
Italy Photo Gallery
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Italy
- Aman Venice (Located in Venice, 0.5 km from St. Mark's Square.)
Situated in a historic palace along the Grand Canal, this luxurious hotel offers serene views of Venice’s waterways. The property features opulent rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests rave about the exceptional service, tranquil atmosphere, and central location. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Located in Tremezzo, 0.5 km from the town centre.)
This iconic hotel on Lake Como offers a blend of traditional Italian luxury and stunning views of the lake. The hotel features elegant rooms, an outdoor pool, and multiple dining options. Guests appreciate the picturesque setting, top-notch amenities, and exceptional service. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Hotel de Russie (Located in Rome, 1 km from the Spanish Steps.)
In the heart of Rome, this luxurious hotel offers a blend of modern style and historic elegance. The hotel features elegant rooms, a beautiful garden, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests enjoy the exceptional service, the tranquil setting, and the close proximity to Rome’s landmarks. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Borgo Egnazia (Located in Savelletri, 8 km from the town centre.)
This luxurious resort offers a unique experience combining traditional Puglian architecture with modern luxury. The property features spacious rooms, a golf course, a spa, and several dining options. Guests love the exceptional service, the beautiful grounds, and the high-end amenities. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Four Seasons Hotel Firenze (Located in Florence, 1 km from the city centre.)
Set in a historic palace, this luxury hotel offers a refined stay in the heart of Florence. The hotel features lavish rooms, a wellness centre, and a gourmet restaurant. Guests appreciate the serene gardens, impeccable service, and proximity to Florence’s top attractions. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Castello di Casole (Located in Casole d'Elsa, 25 km from Siena.)
Set in a restored medieval castle in the heart of Tuscany, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the rolling hills. The property features elegantly designed rooms, a wellness centre, and a gourmet restaurant. Guests enjoy the peaceful setting, exceptional service, and access to local wineries. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Hotel Villa Cora (Located in Florence, 2 km from the city centre.)
Set in a 19th-century villa surrounded by gardens, this hotel offers a luxurious stay just outside Florence’s centre. The hotel features stylish rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving Tuscan dishes. Guests rave about the elegant atmosphere, the stunning views, and the high-end facilities. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - The St. Regis Florence (Located in Florence, 0.5 km from the city centre.)
This opulent hotel offers a sophisticated stay in the heart of Florence, with stunning views of the Arno River. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and a fine-dining restaurant. Guests appreciate the luxurious decor, impeccable service, and central location. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Il San Pietro di Positano (Located in Positano, 1.5 km from the town centre.)
Situated on the cliffs of Positano, this exclusive hotel offers panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. The property features elegant rooms, a private beach, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests enjoy the stunning views, exceptional service, and the peaceful setting. Price Guide: €€€€ (high-end) - Hotel L'Orologio (Located in Florence, 1 km from the city centre.)
A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Florence, offering a modern stay with easy access to the city’s major attractions. The hotel features contemporary rooms, a bar, and a breakfast room. Guests appreciate the central location, the chic decor, and the high-quality service. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
Tours and Activities
Italy Tours and Activities
- Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Guided Tour: In Rome, guided tours of the Vatican Museums offer timed entry and expert explanations of artworks from the Renaissance and beyond. These tours often include the Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, and end with time inside the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgement. Some experiences also include access to St Peter’s Basilica via a separate entrance.
- Gondola Ride with Serenade in Venice: This traditional experience allows visitors to cruise the canals of Venice aboard an authentic gondola, often accompanied by live music and singing. Routes usually pass under footbridges and along quieter canals near the Grand Canal. Shared or private rides are available, with options to book at sunset or after dark for a more atmospheric journey.
- Cooking Class with Market Visit in Florence: Join a local chef in Florence to shop at a neighbourhood market before heading to the kitchen to learn how to make Tuscan dishes from scratch. Classes typically include fresh pasta, sauces, bruschetta and dessert, followed by a shared meal with local wines. Some experiences take place in countryside villas or farms outside the city.
- Mount Etna and Taormina Day Trip: From Catania or other eastern Sicilian towns, this full-day tour includes a visit to Mount Etna, with stops at craters, lava fields and viewing points. The second half of the day is spent in Taormina, where travellers can explore the historic centre, visit the Greek Theatre, or take in views of the Ionian Sea from the town’s terraces.
- Cinque Terre Hiking and Boat Tour: Organised day trips to the Cinque Terre often include a combination of coastal walking trails, train transfers between villages, and boat rides along the Ligurian coast. Guides lead small groups through towns like Manarola and Vernazza, with free time to swim, eat or explore at each stop.
- Wine Tour in the Val d’Orcia: In southern Tuscany, guided wine tours explore the vineyards and cellars of the Val d’Orcia. Travellers visit small-scale producers to taste Brunello di Montalcino or Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, learn about the ageing process, and often enjoy lunch with regional specialities. Transport is typically included from towns such as Siena or Montepulciano.
- Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Guided Excursion: Departing from Naples or Sorrento, this full-day tour visits the archaeological site of Pompeii with a guide, providing insight into Roman life before the eruption of 79 AD. The tour then continues to Mount Vesuvius, where participants can hike up to the crater rim and learn about the volcano’s geology.
- Amalfi Coast Boat Tour: Cruise along the Amalfi Coast with stops in towns such as Positano and Amalfi, often with time to swim in secluded bays or visit sea caves. These small-group boat tours offer views of dramatic cliffs, colourful villages and terraced hillsides, and typically include drinks and commentary on the region’s history and culture.
- Truffle Hunting Experience in Piedmont or Umbria: Join a licensed truffle hunter and trained dog for a walk through wooded hills in search of seasonal truffles. The experience includes a lesson on the types of truffles found in the region, and usually ends with a tasting or lunch based on local dishes enhanced with fresh truffle.
- Lake Como Day Trip from Milan: This popular full-day excursion includes transport from Milan to the lakefront town of Como, a walking tour of the centre, and a boat cruise to see villas and gardens from the water. Some versions of the tour include stops in Bellagio or Varenna, with free time to explore or dine at leisure.
REGIONS OF ITALY
Chiavari, Liguria
There are twenty official regions of Italy with some of the names such as Tuscany and Piedmont quite familiar but many of the others not so well known even though the places within them are well-established.
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PROVINCES OF ITALY
Vieste, Foggia Province in Puglia
There are currently 102 provinces of Italy, which are smaller administrative areas within each of the twenty regions. Most, if not all, of the provinces are the larger cities and they're all detailed here.
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Things to See in Italy
Castelluccio di Norcia, Umbria
There are more than 3,000 pages of things to see in Italy detailed on Italy Review. Everything from the major cities to the smallest towns with all the islands, lakes, parks, beaches and landmarks.
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Beautiful Italian Cities
Piazza Campo, Siena
The Beautiful Italian Cities section details those cities that aren't necessarily the most populous but nevertheless offer a substantial amount of sights. Highlights include the likes of Siena, Pisa and Pavia.
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What to Eat
What to Eat in Italy
- Pasta al pomodoro – A simple yet essential dish of pasta with tomato sauce, olive oil, and basil, found across all regions. It represents the heart of Italian home cooking and is often the first pasta dish taught to children or served at family meals.
- Pizza Margherita – A Neapolitan pizza topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, and fresh basil, baked in a wood-fired oven. Said to have been created in honour of Queen Margherita, it showcases the colours of the Italian flag and is a symbol of Naples.
- Lasagne al forno – Layered sheets of pasta baked with meat ragù, béchamel sauce, and Parmigiano Reggiano until golden. Originating in Emilia-Romagna, this hearty oven-baked dish is now popular across Italy and often served at Sunday lunches.
- Risotto alla milanese – Creamy saffron risotto cooked with beef marrow, butter, and white wine, typically served with ossobuco. A staple of Lombardy, it highlights the region’s use of rice and dairy instead of the pasta more common in the south.
- Ossobuco – Braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, onion, and stock until tender, traditionally served with gremolata and risotto. Found mainly in northern regions, it exemplifies Italy’s skill in creating deep flavour through long, slow cooking.
- Parmigiana di melanzane – Layers of fried aubergine, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Parmigiano, baked until bubbling and golden. Although its origins are disputed between Naples, Sicily, and Parma, it remains one of Italy’s most beloved vegetarian dishes.
- Bistecca alla fiorentina – A large, T-bone steak from Tuscan Chianina cattle, grilled rare and seasoned with only olive oil and salt. This dish is deeply tied to Tuscan tradition and often served as the centrepiece of celebratory meals.
- Polenta – A staple of northern Italy made from boiled maize flour, served soft or firm, often with cheese, mushrooms, or meat stews. It has deep roots in rural communities and remains a comfort food, especially in the Alps and pre-Alpine regions.
- Arancini – Deep-fried rice balls filled with ragù, peas, and cheese, coated in breadcrumbs and golden on the outside. Found mostly in Sicily, these are eaten as snacks or street food and vary in shape and filling depending on the province.
- Cannoli – Crisp pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta, often flavoured with orange zest or chocolate chips and topped with pistachios or candied fruit. A classic Sicilian dessert, they are prepared fresh to preserve the contrast between the creamy filling and crunchy shell.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Italy
By Rail: Italy has an extensive and efficient rail network, with high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Italo) connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Naples, Bologna, and Turin. Regional and intercity trains link smaller towns across all regions. The high-speed journey from Milan to Rome takes approximately 3 hours, while Rome to Naples takes just over 1 hour. Most major train stations are centrally located with local transport connections.
By Road: The Italian motorway system (Autostrade) covers the entire country, with key routes like the A1 (Milan–Naples) and A14 (Bologna–Taranto) linking major cities and regions. Driving from north to south can take over 12 hours, while shorter journeys between regional centres typically range from 1 to 3 hours. Toll charges apply on many motorways. Car hire is widely available, and parking facilities vary by city and town.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
International routes: Italy is connected by ferry to several countries including Greece, Albania, Croatia, and Tunisia. Services depart from ports such as Bari, Brindisi, Ancona, Venice, and Civitavecchia.
Island access: Regular ferries run between the mainland and major islands like Sicily, Sardinia, and Elba. Naples, Genoa, Livorno, and Piombino are among the main departure points for these services.
Local networks: In addition to long-distance routes, numerous regional ferry services operate on lakes (e.g. Garda, Como, Maggiore) and within archipelagos such as the Aeolian, Aegadian, Pontine, and Venetian islands.
By Road: The Italian motorway system (Autostrade) covers the entire country, with key routes like the A1 (Milan–Naples) and A14 (Bologna–Taranto) linking major cities and regions. Driving from north to south can take over 12 hours, while shorter journeys between regional centres typically range from 1 to 3 hours. Toll charges apply on many motorways. Car hire is widely available, and parking facilities vary by city and town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rome Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci): Italy’s main international gateway, serving flights to and from Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. Located around 30 kilometres west of central Rome.
- Milan Malpensa Airport: The largest airport in northern Italy, with global connections. Approximately 50 kilometres north-west of Milan.
- Venice Marco Polo Airport: Serves north-eastern Italy with a mix of European and intercontinental routes. Located around 13 kilometres from central Venice.
- Naples Capodichino Airport: Key for southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast, with domestic and European flights. Just 7 kilometres from the city centre.
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport: Centrally located in northern Italy and a useful hub for Emilia-Romagna and neighbouring regions.
Ferry Connections:
International routes: Italy is connected by ferry to several countries including Greece, Albania, Croatia, and Tunisia. Services depart from ports such as Bari, Brindisi, Ancona, Venice, and Civitavecchia.
Island access: Regular ferries run between the mainland and major islands like Sicily, Sardinia, and Elba. Naples, Genoa, Livorno, and Piombino are among the main departure points for these services.
Local networks: In addition to long-distance routes, numerous regional ferry services operate on lakes (e.g. Garda, Como, Maggiore) and within archipelagos such as the Aeolian, Aegadian, Pontine, and Venetian islands.
Private Transfers
Italy Private Transfers
Private transfers offer a simple and comfortable way to travel across Italy, whether you're heading to a major city, a small town, or a remote countryside location. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen pickup point—such as an airport, train station, hotel, or private address—and driven by a local, professional driver.
Journeys between cities such as Rome and Florence, Naples and the Amalfi Coast, or Milan and Lake Como are all available by private car, with journey times ranging from 1 hour to over 3 hours depending on the route. Transfers to and from major airports—including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Naples Capodichino, Venice Marco Polo, and Catania Fontanarossa—are also widely available, making onward travel easy to arrange without relying on taxis or public transport.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer anywhere in Italy, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Journeys between cities such as Rome and Florence, Naples and the Amalfi Coast, or Milan and Lake Como are all available by private car, with journey times ranging from 1 hour to over 3 hours depending on the route. Transfers to and from major airports—including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Naples Capodichino, Venice Marco Polo, and Catania Fontanarossa—are also widely available, making onward travel easy to arrange without relying on taxis or public transport.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer anywhere in Italy, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
