There is no question that I am obsessed with Italy. In fact, there is a word for it. It’s called italophile.
Ita·lo·phile: / i-ˈta-lə-ˌfī(-əl /
adj: friendly to or favoring what is Italian
I’ve traveled to Italy many times but not even close to as many times as I’d like. In fact, I’d love to live there in 2016 and really get into the Italian way of life – la dolce far nient – the sweetness of doing nothing. Of all the places in Italy I’ve yet to visit, here are my favorites.
Rome
Whether you are first timer to Italy or a veteran traveler, Rome is an essential. It transports you back in time to understand the Italian way and the history of the people and their culture.
Florence
Florence (Firenze) has stolen my heart time and time again. I spent weeks trying to uncover all the Florence has to offer and I’m still eager to return and discover more. As throughout Italy, romance is in the air and the magnetic energy surrounding the bustling city of Florence is consumingly addictive. Come here to fall in love…with the city! Read more about Florence here.
Cinque Terre
Contrary to a popular misconception, Cinque Terre is not a city in Italy but in fact a region. Located along the Italian Riviera, the rugged portion on coast includes five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each of these centuries-old seaside villages are sprinkled with colorful houses and ancient vineyards clinging to the steep terraces. Come here for the fresh seafood specialities along with the Liguria region’s most famous dish, pesto.
Milan
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Milan is fashion. The shopping here is unparalleled to anywhere else in Italy. From the moment I discovered the “Golden Triangle” I was in a shopaholics paradise. Via Montenapoleone, Via Sant’Andrea and Via della Spiga – these are the three streets that make up this triangle of heaven. Come here to eat, drink and shop ’til you drop!
Lake Como
Long before the arrival of George Clooney, or as the locals refer to him “The Clooney,” Lake Como was a destination for the aristocrats of Italy. The province was visited by noble families, world leaders and high society. Nowadays, it is a popular destination for all tourists alike as there are accommodations, restaurants and activities to suite every budget. Read more about Lake Como here.
Venice
Ah, Venice. An entire city built on water. There is no place in the world quite like it. The city of Venice spans across a group of 118 islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. My favorite part of Venice is the luxurious Lido di Venezia, a 7-mile long sandbar and popular beach destination.
Verona
Verona is a city in northern Italy’s Veneto region famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” It’s home to a 14th-century house said to have “Juliet’s balcony,” even though the building’s connection to the play is fictional. Verona is also famed for its grand Arena, a 1st-century Roman amphitheater still hosting concerts and an annual opera festival.
Positano
Ask me what my favorite destinations in the world are and I will always include Positano in that list. Located along Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast, verything you’ve heard and everything you’ve seen in photographs and movies cannot do the in-person experience justice. And the Amalfi Coast is just that – an experience in itself. Captivating and breathtaking. Truly unforgettable. Read more about Positano here.
San Gimignano
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first set sight on this walled, medieval town in Tuscany. Be sure to climb to the top of the bell tower where you will see panoramic views over all of Tuscany. It is particularly gorgeous during the Fall when the leaves are a beautiful blend of oranges, reds and yellows. Read more about San Gimignano here.
What is your favorite destination in Italy?
