Italy…already feel the taste of crispy pizza, the most delicious ice cream, the aroma of herbs and, of course, the wonderful tastes of cheese, prosciutto, wine and lemoncello? It’s just a gastronomic paradise.
Italy is one of the top five most visited countries after France, USA, China and Spain. When traveling here, it is necessary to take into account that the number of interesting places in Italy is enormous, and even half of them can not be visited in one trip. Therefore, before the trip you need to carefully plan the route.
Italy is so rich in history, museums with original masterpieces that it is just breathtaking!
So, we have prepared a list of Italian cities that are best visited.
Rome
Rome is the capital of Italy and the main treasury of the whole country. It is difficult to underestimate the greatness and beauty of the “Italian heart”, as well as the influence of Roman culture on the whole world.
Colosseum
Any tourist coming to Rome and at least a little interested in the history of this city, at least once in his life should visit the Colosseum.
Vatican
It’s the smallest state in the world. Walk along the square in front of the basilica. By the way, you can reach the basilica observation deck to admire the amazing view of the city. But be prepared to climb the stairs as the elevator will only take you to a part of the basilica.
The Vatican has one of the best museums in the world and it will take at least one day to visit it, and we suggest you start in the morning.
Trevi Fountain
Interesting fact: Do you know how to throw coins into the Trevi Fountain? You have to throw them over your shoulder with your back to the water. This custom has been known at least since the 19th century, but it became widespread after the 1954 film “Three Coins in the Fountain” was released. Why three coins?
Throw one to return to Rome, two to meet love and three to get married. Nowadays, the civil service “catches” about 3000 euros in the fountain. The fountain is just amazing, visit it for sure. And don’t forget your 3 coins!
Pantheon
The Pantheon is the most mysterious of all the buildings in ancient Rome. You will be amazed by its size and wonder how it was possible to build it without special equipment? It is assumed that the temple was completed in 27 BC.
There are different legends and stories about the Pantheon. One says that the building was built on the site from which the legendary Romulus, the founder of Rome, ascended to heaven. Another legend says that the oculus was created by the devil running from the temple of God.
And now about food….. The freshest fried breads are bruschettes, caprese salad, dried prosciutto meat, tender mozzarella, zucchini filled with mozzarella and anchovies, and of course artichokes in batter or just fried to gold. Traditional Roman pasta is considered to be Carbonara pasta, and tender veal with a tempting name “jump in the mouth” – the most frequently ordered second course.
Naples
Naples is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is a chaotic, amazing city with a character in which modern life and history are intertwined on every street and on every corner.
Here you will see a historic volcano, millennia-old ruins, sunny islands, beaches and traditions more than enough to fill an entire summer vacation, especially as you are likely to lose sight of the time wandering through dilapidated alleys full of hidden places and try the world’s best pizza.
Highlight a day to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum
The ruins of Pompey and Herculaneum can be seen on a day trip that takes you back to Roman times. Pompeii is the most famous of these two places, but for some Herculaneum is more interesting because there are more artifacts left.
But if you decide to just visit Pompeii, you will get an idea of what the city was like before the eruption.
The taste of an amazing sfolliatella
It’s impossible not to talk about the best sweet baked goods in Naples – a sofolliatelle. It is a bun made of thin and light layers of puff pastry on the outside and filled with thick stuffing of sweetened ricotta cheese. There are two main varieties: riccia and forolla. The first has a peeled appearance, and the other has a smooth crust. They are often eaten for breakfast, but they can be enjoyed at any time of day.
Be sure to visit the underground Naples
Rome is not the only place in Italy where there are many ruins and mazes under the streets. In Naples there is a tour dedicated to almost all the streets, called Napoli Sotteranea. This tour includes the ruins of ancient Greek and Roman times that you just need to visit.
One of the best examples is the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore, where you will find what is left of the Roman market. What is surprising in this Roman market, which was excavated under the church of San Lorenzo, there are still intact facades and ceilings.
You can even visit them to take a look at the Roman laundry and Roman bakery to see what the pizza oven in Naples looks like. In addition, you can also see the Greek ruins near San Lorenzo.
Enjoy the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento and the islands
Even if you fall in love with Naples, there is no reason not to look at the stunning Amalfi coast or nearby islands, especially if you’re staying for a few days. Sorrento is not located on the coast of Amalfi, but it will still make you feel like you’re in the same environment just 40 minutes away from Naples.
If you want to see the real Amalfi coast, cities such as Amalfi or Positano are quite close and easily accessible. The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are also an excellent choice. Some of them are more touristic than others and you can feel that you are in a crowded tourist city that is happening because of the many cruise ships that are standing there.
But the magnificent bright colors, breathtaking views, and delicious seafood are worth it. And don’t forget to try the local limoncello liquor.
Obviously, there is much more to do in Naples, such as visiting three castles, an opera house, countless churches and several museums, not to mention the volcano that seems to be leaning on the city.
