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Italy is one of the most picturesque countries in the world, that exudes natural beauty along with its rich culture. The country’s history, art, food, music, architecture, culture, sacred sites, charming villages, and stunning scenery are sure to captivate your heart! Check out some must-visit places in Italy:
Rome – Being the capital city, it is a widely travelled destination. Rome is home to ancient relics such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Forum, the Appian Way and the Palatine Hill. While visiting key attractions like the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s Pieta, walk in the Borghese Gardens, enjoy gelato on the Spanish Steps, stroll through Trastevere’s winding lanes, sip morning cappuccinos in cafés, window-shop on the Via Veneto, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish!
The ancient city of Rome, with the Colosseum at its heart | Image: Unsplash
Florence – This epicentre of the Italian Renaissance is much like a massive art gallery. A gravity defying dome, the Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is an icon of world architecture. More masterpieces adorn its churches and palaces, and half a dozen art museums are filled to the brim with paintings and sculpture. Visit the Boboli Gardens, the Oltrarno’s artist studios and workshops, or Santa Croce’s leather shops before you consume too much art in the Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace.
Captivating Florence in Tuscany, a must-visit place | Image: Unsplash
Venice – Who wouldn’t fall in love with a city where the roads are made of water, the buses are boats, and the gondoliers’ sing lilting songs? It is a magical city, and the city itself is what draws most visitors. The expansive Piazza San Marco, often known as St. Mark’s Square, serves as the city’s centre and is flanked by many of its key tourist destinations. Take a romantic gondola ride when in Venice, where a picture-postcard vista is around every turn!
The gondolas that serve as vehicles in Venice | Image: Unsplash
Lake Como – Como, Italy’s most picturesque lake, has been a popular summer getaway for the affluent and famous. The white summits of the Alps to the north may be seen amongst palm trees and camellias on its western shore. East of Lake Como is Lake Garda, a summer playground with water sports and other activities, while just to the west of Lake Como is Lake Maggiore, which has its own charm.
Lake Como, the most picturesque lake | Image: Unsplash
Pisa and Lucca – When in Tuscany, you must stop by these two neighbouring towns, one for the extraordinary Campo dei Miracoli complex and the other for its lovable characteristics. The famous Italian landmark – the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is the focal point of a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes the cathedral, baptistery, and Campo Santo. Lucca is one of Europe’s most enchanting towns to discover and enjoy; it is encircled by broad walls, the top of which is a park with trees.
The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa | Image: Unsplash
In your next vacation, do consider Italy as a possible destination because it is a country that you must visit atleast once in a lifetime!
