St Peter's Basilica, Rome - Italy
St Peter's Basilica, Rome - Italy
Unique culture, beautiful historical sites and really great food - just some of the fantastic things to be found in Italy. Here, are five of the best destinations to get your Italian fix.
Bologna
Often referred to as the country’s gourmet capital, Bologna is not only a haven for foodies, but, unlike its well-known neighbours Florence and Venice; it is relatively untouched by tourism, making for a quieter and less crowded holiday.
The charming university town located in Northern Italy is abundant with beautiful medieval architecture and quaint cobbled streets. When you’re done exploring on foot, head to Piazza Maggiore and enjoy a refreshment in the expansive city square, overlooked by the stunning 14th century church, the Basilica di San Petronio.
For cheap holidays to Bologna, click here.
Rome
It's simply one of the most beautiful cities in the world, seeped in romance and history. A city break in Rome means impressive sites like the breath-taking Trevi Fountain, which is also a dating spot for many locals; the splendid squares such as Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Navona and Piazza Campo dei Fiori, and, most famous of all, the Coliseum.
Once you’ve fed your appetite for culture and wonder, tuck into a tasty pizza at one of the cities many great restaurants, or be daring with a visit to the San Lorenzo neighbourhood and try a typical Roman dish like pajata di agnello - lamb's intestines, plaited and roasted with rosemary and bacon - the adventurous food choice might just pay off. And don’t forget, the beach at Santa Marinella is not too far for a day at the seaside.
For cheap holidays to Rome, click here.
Tuscany
For a true taste of traditional Italian hospitality head to Tuscany in central Italy, with its spectacular landscapes, fine art, and lush rolling vineyards, if the wine doesn’t entice you (which it most likely will), then one of the ten provinces in Tuscany will surely have something amazing to draw your attention.
It is a region perfect for both a city break and a beach holiday; the capital city of Florence houses beautiful artistic treasures like the Cathedral (duomo), the Uffizi, Bargello and the Galleria dell’Accademia, home of Michelangelo’s David and is close to the beach resort of Viareggio.
While a countryside break in the hilly, narrow plains allows for you to explore the many fascinating villages and towns in the area. Other city breaks can be taken in Pisa, located on the right bank of the Arno River mouth, where the famous leaning bell tower stands, and Siena, one of the six UNESCO sites in Tuscany, boasting well-preserved Gothic architecture.
For cheap holidays to Tuscany, click here.
Venice
The city that's built on water is a place of complete beauty and seduction. The narrow entwining streets, well-preserved palaces and churches and beautiful squares and bridges, make walking through Venice simply captivating. Enjoy a gondola ride, gaze in awe at the amazing and unspoiled artworks by famous Renaissance artists, and take in the laid-back and charismatic nature of this historical and cultural gem.
Despite attracting millions of tourists each year, Venice is a majestic city that continues to thrive. A day spent enjoying the city’s vibrant café scene and marvelling at the breath-taking sights of St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge, is a definite must.
For cheap holidays to Venice, click here.
Italian Dolomites
Skiing, relaxing and eating, the perfect ingredients for a break in the Italian Dolomites, away from the city crowds. The Italian Dolomites make up part of the beautiful Alps mountain range and the region is popular with outdoor enthusiasts, visiting to experience the excellent slopes, relaxed atmosphere and the cosmopolitan town with great shopping and restaurants.
If scenery is your thing then you’ll be happy to know that you’re guaranteed spectacular views of this World Heritage Site, no matter which ski resort you decide to stay in, as well as top-class skiing, snowboarding, hiking and other active adventures.
For cheap holidays to the Italian Dolomites, click here.
Browse more cheap holidays to destinations in Italy, here.
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