Italy

Speak to any traveler and they’ll no doubt have either been to Italy, or dream to one day visit. The allure of this boot-shaped destination does not disappoint. Historic ruins cast shadows over the bustling streets as locals traverse the city en route to visit friends to enjoy ‘un caffé’. ‘Ciao’ is the casual way to greet people here, and the Italians are proud, friendly, and welcoming individuals, keen to share their passion for their country and to point visitors to a local trattoria to enjoy a home-made pasta with seafood caught by their fisherman relative that morning. It’s impossible not to eat endlessly here, and you’re bound to find just as many delicious dishes in an unassuming osteria as you are in a fine-dining ristorante.

Head inland and be captivated by the Tuscan hills, that are just as romantic and picturesque as the movies portray, or swap vineyards for postcards by the sea and explore the blissful coast where gelato vendors, clothing boutiques, and souvenir shops line the seaside as visitors and locals alike journey to the stunning shores. From mountaintop castles and a city built on water, to some of Europe’s most adored attractions and eateries, Italy will no doubt leave every traveler wanting more.

Locations

Florence

Fondly known as the cradle of the Renaissance, a short wander around the narrow streets of this masterpiece of a city will easily have you understanding why. Some of the world’s most renowned artists and sculptors have left their footprints here—from Leonardo Da Vinci and Sandro Botticelli to Michelangelo’s marble sculpture of “David” which stands tall and proud inside the Accademia Gallery, travelers are sure to find resplendent treasures at every turn. With Brunelleschi’s dome soaring above the city skyline, one can easily be tempted to journey inside the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore for a spiraling trek to the top to admire the craftsmanship, and of course the sweeping views across the terracotta rooftops.

Cross the Ponte Vecchio, the city’s most iconic bridge, to the medieval south bank in search of the perfect panino from one of the many cafés as you stroll by fountains and hop from church to church admiring the many frescoes lining the walls. From sights to shopping, Florence is a great place to search for genuine Italian leather with boutiques and artisans selling everything from gloves, wallets jackets, bags, and belts. Here it is understandable to splurge on designer brands, being the home of Gucci, Pucci and Ferragamo. Dining in Florence is an art all is own, blending provincial Tuscan-esque cuisine like rustic vegetable stew with ancient cooking techniques for the crispiest chicken skin ever in a dish called Pollo al Mattone which translates to ‘chicken under a brick’.