Top places to see in Italy

From the gentle rolling hills of Tuscany, Leonardo Da Vinci's Florence, the fashionable flair of Milan and the ancient ruins of Rome, I hope to bring you the best Italy has to offer. Benvenuti in Italia!

Cinque Terre is a rugged portion of coast on the Italian Riviera which is made up of five stunning coastal villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. I believe the best way in is by train, disembark in Manarola greeted by street performers playing beautiful classical music. Walk the famous trail aptly named Via Dell'Amore "Lover's Walk" and explore the heavily terraced hillsides over flowing with olive groves, grapevines, and mind blowing views of the azure coast. Swim in the Mediterranean at any one of the five villages, the best spot I found was in Corniglia's small harbor where there was no one in sight! Being the foodie that I am, I got to appreciate the plentiful seafood, and the world famous Anchovies of Monterosso. A must stop is the 5 Terre Gelateria e Creperia in Manarola for incredible gelato!

 (Photo courtesy of EpicV27)

One of Southern Italy's most important attractions are the Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera. Ancient prehistoric cave dwellings found in the city of Matera, Basilicata they are thought to be the first human settlements in Italy. The cool thing about these dwellings is that they are the only place in the world where people can boast to be still living in the same houses of their ancestors of 9,000 years ago. Carved out of a rocky ravine and baked by the Mediterranean sun, the city is a perfect example of a cultural tradition and civilization which stretches back to the Neolithic age. Make sure to stop at the tourist office in Viti Marco, the staff speak English and provide maps to help you get around. For a unique experience try sleeping in the caves, hotels like Sant'Angelo provide such accommodations but with modern amenities. 

 (Photo courtesy of Francorov)

Explore one of Sicily's most breathtaking attractions: The Valle dei Templi, an archaeological site in Agrigento which includes remains of five temples and ancient city walls. The temples are divided into two zones: the Eastern Zone and Western Zone each side of the main entrance and the road from the city center. In varying states of ruin, the temples give a tantalizing glimpse of what must truly have been one of the most luxurious cities in Great Greece. To put your visit to the temples into perspective check out the Archeological Museum, which is half way back into the city center and the adjacent Roman Quarter which has a few nice mosaics. It's a good idea to get a guide, unless you're familiar with ancient Greek/Italian history. An audio guide is also available but has to be returned which means a trek back to the beginning of the site if you decide to rent one.

 

Discover the iconic, medieval stretch of coastline of the Amalfi Coast on the Sorrentine Peninsula in the Province of Salerno in Southern Italy. Lemon tree gardens terraced gardens produce the renown limoncello liqueur, colored houses dot the extraordinary landscpae, and quaint little fishing villages open their arms in embrace. Hike the trails of Positano, walk the medieval streets of Salerno, or soak in the sun near the pier at Amalfi looking over the sparkling Mediterranean. This section of Italy can take weeks to explore if you'd like to see everything, but many couples head there for a romantic one week retreat. Seafood dominates most menus on the coast, I recommend the deep fried artichokes at Da Vincenzo in Positano, the lemon rind risotto at La Caravella in Amalfi and my personal favorite the linguine with colatura d'alici at Acqua Pazza in Cetara. The best time for visiting is late spring or early fall as the summertime can get extremely busy, and somewhat expensive.

Ever wonder where Santa Claus originated? Bari a major port and capital of the Italian province of Puglia, is where Saint Nicholas of Bari, the model for which Santa Claus was based on, was born. The city of Bari, especially in the ancient part known by locals as Barivecchia is appreciated for its medieval quarters filled with magnificent churches. The romanic Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the city's patron saint, was built between 1087 and 1197 and is filled with medieval relics, a visit the to the Basilica is necessary when in Bari, see why Saint Nicholas' legendary generosity has inspired people around the world. Bari's cuisine, one of Italy's most traditional and noteworthy, is a delightful blend of locally grown products. You'll want to try the tasting platter at Terranima Ristoro Pugliese, the fresh seafood catch of the day at Osteria al Gambero and the home made ice cream at Gran Caffe' Ragno. The best time to head to this fabulous city is during the beginning of December to be able to attend the city's main celebration of Saint Nicholas, a huge crowd and lots of fast food stands fill the old town through the night.

 (Photo courtesy of Laurent Massoptier; see website http://loloieg.free.fr/blog/index.php)

Turin, a city and major business and cultural centre in northern Italy, capital of the Piedmont region, can be be described in one word: enchanting! Well known as the home of the Shroud of Turin, the football teams Juventus F.C. and Torino F.C., the headquarters of automobile manufacturers FIAT, Lancia and Alfa Romeo, and as host of the 2006 Winter Olympics, the city has a rich culture and history. Often considered the European capital of Baroque, much of the city's public squares, gardens, palaces and churches were built in this style during the city's reign under the House of Savoy. Now a popular destination, tourists come to explore the former capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia, home of the Savoy Residences as well as a number of other aristocratic buildings including the Palazzo Chiablese, the Royal Armoury, the Royal Library, Palazzo Madama, Palazzo Carignano, Villa della Regina, and the Valentino Castle. Recently, Turin has become the home of the slow food movement, with the basis of preserving traditional and regional cuisine.

 (Photo courtesy of chensiyuan)

Rome, the 'Eternal City', is the capital and largest city of Italy and of the Lazio region. It is the famed city of the Roman Empire, the Seven Hills, La Dolce Vita (sweet life), the Vatican City and Three Coins in the Fountain. Rome's history spans two and a half thousand years which can be seen through its immensely rich historical heritage and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city is one of Europe's and the world's most successful city "brands", both in terms of reputation and assets. Monuments and museums such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum are amongst the world's 50 most visited tourist destinations. The best way to see the Eternal City is by foot, wander around the old part of the city, look for the astounding roof gardens and all sorts of sculptures, paintings and religious icons attached to exterior walls. Apart from a magnitude of sights, Rome is also filled with good restaurants, and great food, try a picnic Roman style head to Via Marmorata you find Volpetti's which is known for its amazing selection of cheese, prosciutto and delicious pastries.

 (Photo courtesy of Peter Fitzgerald) 

Venice is probably one of the most interesting places I've ever been to. This sanctuary stretches across 117 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon is virtually the same as it was six hundred years ago, which adds to the fascinating character. Now many might tell you that Venice is in a state of genteel decay, I completely disagree with that statement. Venice's romantic charm lies in its 600 year old palaces filled with modern art and those awesome artisan shops in the backstreets and alleys making shoes shaped like lagoon birds. I consider the floating city to be a living museum, visit the Basilica di San Marco, the San Zanipolo, the Correr Museum, and the secret itinerary tour at Doge's Palace. If you have the time visit all the museums, none of them disappoint. Ride a Vaporetto, take a Gondola, and enjoy the fascinating architecture and amazing Venetian watercraft, be prepared to dish out though both are expensive but well worth it. 

 (Photo courtesy of Chris Wee)

Explore one of the biggest historic city centers in the world: Naples, the capital of the Campania region in Italy. Founded between the 7th and 6th centuries BC, the 2800 year old city has been left with a wealth of buildings and monuments of great cultural and historical significance, including the Palace of Caserta and the Roman ruins of Pompeii, and Herculaneum. Its territory (especially) the iconic sights of the gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, are conceivably two of the most powerful symbolic images of Italy. Try biking, it's a great way to see the city I used a company called Urban Routes they were super helpful and friendly. Of course exploring Mount Vesuvius and the partially buried Roman town of Pompeii are a given and a must do when in Naples. Pizza comes from Naples, so head to Pizzeria Brandi on Chiaia St close to Plebiscito Square, where the pizza margherita (tomato, basil and fresh mozzarella toppings) was born.

 

Unwind in the historical port city of Genoa, the birthplace of the legendary Christopher Columbus, and enjoy the pastel colored terracotta-roofed houses, artistic churches, and lovely seaside villas. Check out the Aquarium of Genoa it's the largest in Italy, and second largest in Europe. Walk through the old part of the city, discover all the hidden gems behind cozy alleyways, fabulous seafood filled cuisine, and the renovated old port. Visit the public pools, eat delicious ice cream, and soak in the sun on of the city's many beaches. Splurge and head to one of Frank Sinatra's favorite restaurants: Ristorante Zeffirino, who apparently sent him regular supplies of their pesto, hidden up a long flight of steps just off Via XX Settembre, it is well worth the find with excellent food and friendly service.

 (Photo courtesy of William Domenichini)

Sip some of Italy's best wine; Vino Nobile in Montepulciano. Sitting on the Tuscany and Umbrian border, Montepulciano is my hidden Italian gem. Medieval alleyways, Renaissance churches and palaces, and the center of an ancient wine growing region, all make up the reasons why I fell head over heels with this little city. Head to the Piazza Grande, the town's square and explore the medieval Palazzo Comunale, Contucci Palace, and Palazzo de' Nobili-Tarugi. For a great town view climb the clock tower of the Palazzo Comunale. On the single main street, stop at the Caffe Poliziano for an amazing cappuccino and watch the world go by. Montepulciano is a major producer of food and drink, so indulge and enjoy some of the best food Italy has to offer! My top choices were: the Pici pasta with rabbit sauce and saffron at Ristorante La Grotta, the porcini pasta smothered with white truffles at Osteria del Conte (we still dream about it), and the chianina steak at Osteria Acquacheta.

 (Photo courtesy of Alex Pears)

Witness a timeless tradition known as The Palio in Florence's age old rival city: Siena. The Palio is a horse race that is held twice each year on July 2 and August 16 dating back to the 16th century, it takes place at the Piazza del Campo renown worldwide as one of Europe's greatest medieval squares. Visit the Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's City Hall for almost 800 years, and check out the amazing frescoes. Climb the Torre del Mangia, the tall bell tower overlooking the Piazza del Campo, it's a 300 step hike but the view waiting for you will be well worth it. I took a tour of an Etruscan tomb, which also included visiting a winery, the surrounding area of the city is Chianti Country and the vineyards are a sight to see. Sienese cuisine is absolutely mouthwatering, try the fresh pasta with leeks, saffron and pumpkin cream sauce at La Taverna di San Giuseppe, the gnocchi with sausage at Ristorante Guidoriccio and the best lamp chops I've ever tasted at Dolceforte.

 (Photo courtesy of Massimo Catarinella)

 -Tracy Smith