For sheer drama, little compares to the Dolomites’ cragged peaks, alpine meadows, sheer cliffs and rolling valleys. Stretching from the border with Austria in the north to the Venetian plains in the south, this is a region of staggering natural beauty, ripe for adventure, adrenaline sports and activity. These soaring peaks are a playground throughout the year, whether taking to the Black runs in winter, swimming in the emerald waters of Lago di Braies in summer, hiking through alpine pastures in spring or climbing the via ferrata in autumn.While the spellbinding landscapes are the star attraction of the Dolomites, the region also lends itself to more cultural pursuits. Stroll the streets of the capital city of Bolzano and marvel at the Romanesque and Gothic architecture of the Duomo di Bolzano. The quaint Alpine villages of Alta Badia whisk you into a storybook land of chocolate shops, ancient churches and tranquil lanes to explore, sustained by fresh pastries from one of the charming cafes. Spa hotels and wineries are plentiful, making the Dolomites a dream for those who like their adventure and challenging hikes with a side of indulgence.
Emilia Romagna is a region of culinary masterpieces. Feast your way through this fertile land, which claims delicacies including prosciutto crudo, mortadella, balsamic vinegar and parmesan as its own. This culinary heritage is written in its very bones, from Bologna and Parma to Modena, and these cities offer visits to cheese factories, ‘acetaia’ (vinegar producers) and charming osteria where heaving plates of cucina casalinga (home cooking) await.
A combination of staggering art and architecture with a lively nightlife, deservedly famous restaurant scene, and soul-stirring landscapes. It’s an energetic spot, with a richly storied, at times turbulent, history that weaves Greek, Roman, Norman, French, and Spanish influences into one vibrant tapestry. This history lies round every corner, from Baroque wonders in hidden churches to the Roman treasures of the Archaeological Museum and the grand buildings of the Piazza del Plebiscito.
Meaning ‘at the foot of the mountains’, Piedmont sits in the shadow of the Alps and its gentle slopes are carpeted in vineyards, mediaeval estates, and pristine forest, making it a destination for all seasons, whether heading to the ski slopes in winter, enjoying the emerging alpine meadows in spring, soaking in the warmth of summer, or truffle hunting in autumn.
From Cinque Terre to Portofino, this is a landscape that has inspired artists, writers, and travellers for centuries, where citrus trees heavy with fruit offer shade to walking trails and ancient piazzas sing with the noise of lively chatter and clinking glasses.
A city that fizzes with cultural energy, from the show-stopping architecture and world-famous art to the dining scene and nightlife as well as a mecca for fashionistas. Milan effortlessly combines Versace, Gucci and Prada with Michaelangelo and Botticelli.
From the towering peaks of the Italian Alps and forest-clad hills that tumble down to a fringe of elegant lakeside towns, Lake Como’s postcard-perfect landscapes are one of the most captivating spots in Italy’s Lombardy region. From Bellagio to Varenna and Como, the charming villages that dot its banks offer an idyllic setting for meandering quaint streets and celeb-spotting from pavement cafes.
As the capital of Tuscany, Florence’s terracotta rooftops, romantic restaurants, and art galleries make the city ideal as both a weekend break and part of a longer journey through the region.
This is a region of such natural beauty, it demands the same of everything that touches its soil, from the candy-coloured villas swathed in vibrant bougainvillaea to the manicured gardens and chic striped parasols.
Arguably Italy’s most famous enclave, the Amalfi Coast is one of the few much-photographed spots that truly lives up to its reputation. Its rugged coastline is dotted with candy floss coloured towns that cling to the cragged cliffs, while pine forests and mountains rise beyond. The landscape alone is a draw, but it is also the place to see and be seen, beloved by celebs who flock to the luxury hotels, sip limoncello under striped parasols, and hike the well-marked trails.
In Italy’s heel lies the region everyone is talking about. For ample reason: a great stretch of coastline, trulli villages, local markets and the ‘Florence of the South’ – Lecce.
Just off the toe of Italy’s boot, this wild and woolly island is loved for its Greek Temples, coastal towns and a famous volcano. The island is best experienced (in our humble opinion) on an east to west road trip, Palermo to Taormina via Syracuse.
From the terracotta rooftops of Florence to the cypress-lined avenues of the countryside, it’s postcard-perfect at every turn. Mediaeval villages sit atop hillsides swathed in neat lines of olive groves and vineyards in a landscape that lends itself to outdoor pursuits; truffle hunting, horseback riding, and hiking.
Capital cities can be overwhelming, but the joy of Rome is that the city’s highlights are largely on top of one another. Make a wish in the Trevi Fountain and enjoy some time eating gelato on the Spanish Steps.
A floating city has to be seen to be believed. Far from being the city’s only draw, Venice has much to see and do by foot and by gondola, including an old art scene and an ever-developing new one.
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