Italy has announced an easing of health restrictions related to Covid-19 as of 15 May 2021 and is among the countries that will open their borders unconditionally to vaccinated travellers this summer. Indeed, anyone able to present a document proving full vaccination, recovery from Covid-19 or a negative PCR test less than 48 hours old will be able to travel to Italy without undergoing quarantine. Discover the most beautiful cities to enjoy the dolce vita for a few days.
Florence
The capital of Tuscany, Florence could be compared to an open-air museum. It is home to a large concentration of Renaissance masterpieces, such as the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and the Bargello Palace. And don't forget that in Italy, the food is always good! So if you want to discover Italy, you can create your own tailor-made trip with our partner!
Verona
Located in the north of the country, Verona is known for its medieval old town. The city's arenas, a huge amphitheatre dating from the 1st century, are now used as a venue for concerts and operas. But above all, Verona is famous for being the setting for Shakespeare's drama Romeo and Juliet. You can visit Juliet's house, a 14th-century residence with the small balcony where the two star-crossed lovers declared their love for each other.
Rome, the Italian capital
The Colosseum, the Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican Museums, the churches... Rome is full of historical wonders to visit. Modern buildings stand side by side with the remains of the past. It is not uncommon to come across the remains of an ancient column on a street corner. The Italian capital also has some beautiful green spaces, such as the famous Villa Borghese. The terrace of the Pincio gardens is one of the most beautiful places to admire the sunset.
Palermo in Sicily
Located at the tip of the Italian boot, Palermo has long had a bad reputation, between mafia and poverty. But the city has managed to reverse this trend. This is good news for visitors, as the capital of Sicily has many assets, starting with its cathedral and its ancient palaces. To visit and soak up the charm of the place, there's nothing better than to lose yourself in the many narrow streets of the old town.
Forio in Ischia
Located near Naples, the small volcanic island of Ischia is home to the port town of Forio. Visit the Mortella gardens created by the English composer William Walton and discover one of the town's many typical churches. If you have time, take time to dine at Vigna Di Alberto less than 30 minutes drive away in Barano to sample the chef's delicious dishes and the Italian Dolce Vita.
Bari to explore Puglia
This port city on the Adriatic Sea is absolutely charming. With its azure sea, its maze of narrow streets and ancient monuments, not to mention the pedestrianised shopping streets, Bari is an attractive place to visit. It is also a good starting point for exploring Puglia and stopping off at one of Italy's most beautiful beaches.
Cagliari in Sardinia
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia. It is particularly appreciated for its medieval quarter surrounded by ramparts at the top of the hill, overlooking the rest of the city. Among the monuments to see, the cathedral of Saint Mary, dating from the 13th century, or the Bastione Saint Remy, an imposing white limestone structure.
Naples
Like Palermo, Naples has long been perceived as a dangerous, mafia-like, unhealthy city. But the capital of Campania, in full renaissance, has triumphed over the clichés. The city is pleasant, with many palaces, narrow streets to wander through, the Basilica of San Gennaro, not to mention its pleasant location facing the sea. And don't forget to see Vesuvius and Pompeii, which are nearby!
Turin
The former bastion of the Fiat factories has undergone a metamorphosis in recent years. Heritage, contemporary art, gastronomy... Italy is discovering the charms of the capital of Piedmont, which has finally emerged from its legendary reserve. Located in the north of the country, Turin is known for its refined architecture, with baroque buildings and the Alps in the background.
Venice
Venice, the city of lovers. The capital of the Veneto region in northern Italy is known throughout the world for its canals and carnival, not to mention St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. The city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting over 25 million tourists a year.
Lecce
Situated in the heel of Italy's boot, Lecce is absolutely enchanting. Its ancient amphitheatre, dome and basilica in the centre of the city are among the monuments not to be missed. To make matters worse, the sea is turquoise blue, inviting you to swim. It is also a good starting point to explore the beautiful region of Puglia.
Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located in Lombardy, Mantua was the birthplace of the famous poet Virgil. Discover the Palazzo Ducale and its frescoes by Giuliano Romano, Raphael and Andrea Mantegna, then stop at the Clock Tower before losing yourself in the streets of this city whose architecture is based on the principles of the Renaissance and the wishes of the Gonzaga dynasty between the 14th and 18th centuries.
Also read:
⋙ What are the most beautiful cities in Europe?
⋙ What are the most beautiful cities in the world?
⋙ What are the most beautiful Greek islands?
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