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Discovering Italy
Up and down the penisula
Twenty regions and over a hundred provincial cities: these are the numbers of Italy as a political
and administrative unit, reflected in the variety of customs and traditions, differing colours and
smells, in local idioms and regional histories.
Throughout our long history, from prehistory, through the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans
to the Second World War up to today, we see Italy as the cradle of Mediterranean civilisation, with a
glorious past which has left its mark in an infinite number of architectural and artistic witnesses in
Italian cities and urban centres.
From Aosta to Cagliari, from Milano to Palermo, from Venice to Rome: whether they be on the sea
or in the mountains, in the plains or along the rivers, on the shores of a lake or in the countryside,
Italian cities are unique. In this section the tourist in love with art, culture and history can learn
about the characteristics of all the major regional and provincial cities in Italy,and about the
monuments gracing their squares, streets and historical sites.
Of course if you so desire, you can also have a look at the regions themselves, permitting a foretaste
of the holiday full of fun and relaxation in wait for you up and down the Peninsula.
Visit Italy

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Abruzzo
From the thrill of the peaks to the calm beaches

Nature is the protagonist wherever you go in this European region which has the highest number of
parks. This region has the widest variety of physical and environmental features: in just a few tens
of miles you pass from the peaks of the Gran Sasso, the highest mountain in the Apennines, to the
endless beaches along the Adriatic coast. No matter where you are though, nature is protagonist.
There is an endless variety of landscape and nature, which make Abruzzo the European region with
most parks and natural reserves. Among the woods and pastures, the mountains hide an endless
variety of rock churches, hermitages and abbeys, recollections of Italic periods and Roman remains,
all fascinating in their rich history, together with beautiful art towns like L’Aquila, Atri and Teramo.
However, the highlight of the region is its coastline, which is visited every year by thousands of
tourists coming from all over Europe. It is rather even and sandy to the north, but more rugged to
the south, from Ortona to Vasto where there is a completely different landscape: delightful bays
hidden by broom wood and vineyards, broken up by wide beaches surrounded by Mediterranean
scrub. Anywhere the tourist goes, there are fascinating historic centres to be visited, long fine sandy
beaches, shady pinewoods, which are ideal for a pleasant walk or other occasions to spend your
holiday enjoying yourself and practicing different sports. The seaside resorts are all very modern
and efficient, with special focus paid to entertainment for the young. The town of Giulianova is very
interesting artistically, a very popular resort in the summer it is also known as the ‘pearl’ of the
Teramo coast for its luxuriant vegetation, with the palm trees that give it a decidedly exotic air. A
real garden town to all effects, Roseto degli Abruzzi is a lively tourist resort, with wide shady
avenues that distinguish this natural landscape and environment. For lovers of culture and music,
Pescara offers the famous Pescara Jazz Festival in July, one of the most important on the
international scene. Abruzzo can boast some wonderful cultural traditions, very brisk handicraft
trade and excellent choices of food specialities made using all the local farm and fishing resources.
Visit Abruzzo



Basilicata
A land of light, clay, woods and mountains, contrasts and allegories

Hemmed in between three regions and washed by the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Sea, Basilicata offers
tourists the classical image of the best of Italy’s coastal areas. You only have to think of Maratea,
Lucania’s window on the sea to the west, which promises tranquillity and seclusion with its
numerous little beaches crowned with rocks. While just a few steps away from the Ionian, the
“Sassi”, defined essentially and inadequately, recount the old peasant way of life and represent one
of its oldest and most unique structures. It is a small region, as well as being one of the least densely
populated in Italy, yet it is home to several ethnic groups like the Albanians, who have made this
land their shield for survival, a land that has been impoverished for millenniums and centuries, on
the edge of history’s most important events. Today, even though the new assault of modern living is
growing rapidly and steadily narrowing the ancestral models of rural living, many parts of
Basilicata still “resist” this powerful force and preserve values, traditions and customs, which are
offered to visitors with discretion and sincerity. This is why getting to know Basilicata today
represents a truly unique and wonderful experience. When people everywhere speak of
uncontaminated nature, great open spaces, citing examples of foreign countries, we must not forget
that in the south of Italy too there is a region that can easily offer all of this, in the awareness of its
own history. Craftsmen from Lucania, in their manifold expressions, continue to produce unique
objects, whilst remaining relatively unknown. Masters of hammers, axes, lathes and skiving knives
set up a self-sufficient way of life in their shops that was organised with the creation of behaviour,
language, jokes and serious cooperatives. In Basilicata there was once, and still is a true “manual
tradition” based on a system of micro-structures, whose activity responded to real, basic needs; this
system also includes those products originally conceived as pastimes, such as the handicrafts of the
so-called “shepherds’ art” and wood carving. Finally, the typical foods that can be tasted on the
tables of Lucania include beans, mushrooms, truffles, olives, various kinds of cold meats and
salami, chestnuts, honey, cheeses, dairy products and, as in the whole of the South of Italy, extra
virgin olive oil.
Visit Basilicata



Calabria
A magical encounter between the sea and the mountains

Eight hundred kilometres of coast, gentle hills and wooded mountains, two nature parks and the
splendours of Magna Graecia. The region of Calabria undoubtedly offers an extraordinary
combination of sea and mountains, a place where the day can begin in the sun on an enchanting
golden beach and end with a spectacular sunset at high altitude. Visiting this region is a thrilling
experience, as it is possible to find completely unspoilt spots, where one can spend a peaceful
holiday, immersed in magnificent countryside offering unique scenery.
It also represents an immense artistic and cultural heritage for Italy and the world, allowing the
tourist to explore the long and fascinating history of the Mediterranean. Those who love the sea will
particularly appreciate the mild climate and the splendid colours of the sea, which laps around circa
800 kilometres of coast, stretching along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas.
The Tyrrhenian coast is mostly made up of wide sandy beaches, but the coastline often becomes
jagged, with caves just above the surface of the water and small coves which can only be reached
from the sea. There are numerous towns and sites facing onto the Tyrrhenian sea which leave the
tourist with unforgettable memories of their beauty.
The island of Dino, for example, just a short distance from Praia a Mare and only five minutes from
the coast, is a corner of paradise, with rocky walls terminating in picturesque caves. Close to Capo
Scalea, we find San Nicola Arcella, where one can admire the remains of two towers once part of
the 16th century system of defences. Diamante is striking for its magnificent natural setting,
characterised by citron groves, while Cetraro is a typical trading town, with a port for the mooring
of fishing vessels and tourist boats. Continuing along the Tyrrhenian coast we come across Pizzo,
Tropea, Lamezia Terme and many other small towns of striking beauty, making them an
incomparable destination for tourists wishing to spend a holiday in one of the most magical places
in Italy.
Visit Calabria



Campania
A journey through the centuries of italian history

Campania is known throughout the world for its beautiful sea and coastline, the artistic treasures,
architectural and cultural heritage that can be found everywhere, where the tourist can discover
history that covers the arc of several centuries.
Naples is the ideal starting point for a fascinating journey along one of the most beautiful coastlines
in Italy. The unmistakeable warm welcome given by the people, the beautiful Gulf of Naples, the
mild climate all make this one of the loveliest and most interesting towns in the world. Over the
centuries it has been subject to numerous different foreign domains and the town is a mixing pot of
art, culture and languages. Behind the city the impressive volcano Vesuvius stands out against the
sky, the only active volcano on the European continent, which gives a really impressive view from
the top.
Near to Naples there are some very important resorts known for their artistic wealth and splendid
scenery. First of all, Pozzuoli, an important industrial centre and tourist destination to discover the
ancient monuments, springs and countryside. You can catch a boat here to go to the islands of Ischia
and Procida. Ischia is the largest island in the Gulf of Naples, famous for its mild climate and
luxuriant vegetation, today a very refined and exclusive tourist resort for its beautiful landscape and
spa centres. Procida rises out of the sea like an enchanted castle: small and flat, it is beautiful with
the lovely pastel coloured houses of the fishermen, which have remained intact and unchanged in
their original style, and the pervading silence everywhere.
From Naples you can begin excursions to discover other attractive areas like the Sorrento coast,
with its beautiful panorama of the entire Gulf of Sorrento.
Visit Campania



Emilia-Romagna
A LEADING REGION FOR TOURISM

Undisputed leader for tourism in Europe, Emilia Romagna has 130 kilometres of beaches,
discotheques, restaurants, pizzerias, water parks, games halls, sports facilities in an endless array.
In the summer, the region is visited by thousands of Italian and foreign tourists. Emilia Romagna
can satisfy any sort of taste, cyclists, gourmets, lovers of relaxation, or entertainment, families with
small children, lovers of history and excursions, here everyone can find what they are looking for.
Rimini needs no introduction, capital for holidaymakers seeking comfort and fun at all hours.
Cattolica is also important, a bathing establishment since the last century with three kilometres of
super-equipped beaches and all sorts of recreation and entertainment facilities. To all this, Riccione
also adds an excellent Spa centre, fed by water coming from four springs. But the Emilia coast is
more besides, peace and quiet, well away from the hectic life, can be found in the Ferrara Lidos,
which offer everything you need for a really relaxing holiday.
A journey into folklore and culture. To suggest an itinerary we have chosen the ancient Via Emilia,
leaving from Piacenza that follows the banks of the River Po. In Monticelli d’Ongina, you will find
the Ethnographic Museum of this great river: an exhibition of boats from 250 years ago, models of
typical craft like the ferryboats, reproductions of the mills and moments of daily life, like sturgeon
fishing and gathering the trunks from under the water. Typical country tools, and an aquarium with
22 tanks of fish coming from the median flow of the River Po.
We now enter the Parma area, with Ozzano near Collecchio, with the ethnographic “Guateli
Collection”, called the “Louvre of peasants”, with the private collection of Ettore Guateli, which is
really vast with everyday items in their various uses.
Finally in Reggio Emilia, we find Novella with the Peasant Civilisation Museum, set out in the 13th
century basement of the fort. It documents the thousand years’ culture of the area, and the farming
tools are divided by seasons, with domestic life in the countryside reproduced with the everyday
tools and furniture.
Visit Emilia Romagna



Friuli-Venezia Giulia
A holiday for all tastes

If you are looking for a seaside, mountain, city, cultural or fun holiday, then all of these are possible
in Friuli. For those who enjoy visiting and getting to know art cities, the region’s pearls are Trieste,
Udine and Gorizia.
Trieste has the appeal of a “middle ground” city, where the Mediterranean culture meets that of
Mitteleuropa, creating an inevitable mysterious and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city is a
crossroads of various cultures and races and its history symbolises freedom of thought. On the other
hand, Gorizia is an authentic garden city, full of greenery and a magnificent castle, whilst Udine is
an extremely pleasant city with ancient and legendary hidden corners.
Scattered throughout the region’s hinterland there are splendid villas, which are well preserved and
are authentic architectural works of art, surrounded by large parks and old trees. In addition, there
are many appealing, small towns with their own culinary and wine traditions. For those who love
the sea there are also many other ideal destinations. One of the Adriatic’s most important seaside
resorts is Lignano Sabbiadoro, where you can spend a fun and healthy holiday, especially for the
younger generation. It is immersed in the greenery of a pinewood and has excellent facilities and
long stretches of fine sand leading into shallow waters, making it ideal for children. On the other
hand Grado is a “mini” Venice, due to its layout. It is situated on an island between the sea and a
lagoon in front of the Friuli coast, and is a well-known thermal spa locality. There is abundant
tourist accommodation suitable for all tastes and campsites are well run with many organised
cultural, sport and recreational activates.

The coast of Friuli Venezia Giulia not only offers a lagoon environment surrounding the marine
localities, but also has many towns worth visiting such as Aquileia with its characteristic
monuments built on its flat land.
Visit Friuli Venezia Giulia



Latium
A reference point? Rome – open city

Alongside the monuments, churches and works of art in the capital, there are a thousand different
fascinating attractions in other towns that are well worth visiting. Really ancient history, marked by
different and important civilisations like the Greek, Roman and Etruscan, which have left numerous
traces of their civilisation and culture on the land.
Lazio is one of the most precious regions in Italy. Just think of Rome, the eternal city, navel of the
world, famous for the richness and beauty of its monuments, churches and works of art. Tourists
from all over the world are enchanted by the Imperial Forum, throw coins into the Trevi Fountain
and make a wish, sit on the steps in Trinità dei Monti and walk along the city roads admiring the
buildings and squares. However, there are also other lovely art towns that are unforgettable for their
beauty. In the heart of Ciociaria, on a hill that dominates the valley we find Frosinone a very rich
historic town, fascinating and surrounded by other beautiful towns like Anagni and ancient
Civitavecchia. To the north we find ancient, noble Rieti, with its beautiful palazzos where the noble
Roman families, popes and emperors used to pass their holidays. Viterbo, near to the sea and rich in
history and art.
Lazio focuses a great deal of attention on tourism, for holidays in the art towns and on the coast, the
hills or lakeside. In fact not only history enthusiasts come here but also lovers of nature and
relaxation can find some very attractive modern resorts, at the seaside or on one of the numerous
lakes spread around the region, not only in the area of the Roman Castles, which are definitely one
of the main attractions, but also to the north of the city, where the land is mainly occupied by the old
volcanic craters of Mounts Sabatini, Cimini and Volsini. The largest lakes are Bracciano, Vico and
Bolsena, situated along a virtual straight line, which leads from the gates to the city almost to the
borders of Umbria and Tuscany.
Visit Lazio



Liguria
A thousand different perfumes between sea and sky

A truly marvellous countryside, all waiting to be discovered through a series of splendid itineraries.
Liguria offers some unforgettable scenery, combined with some really unique tastes and perfumes.
Here, sea and sky merge, the mountains stand sheer above the sea, and luxuriant vegetation grows
everywhere, favoured by a climate which is very mild the whole year through.
In this region you can choose from among many different itineraries to discover nature's endless
marvels: the gulf of La Spezia is enchanting, with famous locations such as Lerici and Portovenere;
the Cinque Terre (five lands), a name given to five locations on the coast which cling to the
mountains and dominate cultivated hills and vineyards; then there's the Levante Riviera, between
Sestri Levante and Genoa, which is a succession of stupendous sea views and picturesque towns
and villages, including those most typical of Liguria, namely Rapallo, Portofino, and Camogli.
However, among the countless possible tourist itineraries, one of the better known and interesting in
terms of landscape, is the Riviera of Flowers. Between Genoa and the French border, lie a
succession of very beautiful bays interrupted by some unbelievable promontories. This is the ideal
land for flower growing. The Riviera has towns and villages full of the fascination of bygone days,
with their lanes, pastel coloured houses, small piazzas and palms, which all deserve to be visited bit
by bit.
Visit Liguria



Lombardy
Not just industry

This region has rich and varied lands, also in terms of its geography, with large lakes, extensive
fertile valleys, gentle hills and rugged mountains. Only the sea is missing to complete the range of
one of Italy's largest regions.
The great variety of geographic elements explains why it is not easy to say that one knows
Lombardy to the full. A lot of time is required to explore it, and, above all, the effort to escape from
the banal viewpoint that sees Lombardy as an area suffocated by cement and industries. Many
places have remained intact, only partially compromised by industrialisation, such as the numerous
artistic towns and cities and the immense heritage of greenery, with its landscapes of lakes, rivers,
canals, immense valleys, and high peaks that mark the border with Switzerland. It is the very water
that makes this region one of the most fertile of the whole of Italy, giving agriculture too the
possibility to develop and be among the most competitive on the national market. The river Po
crosses the entire region from west to east, with its numerous affluents - Ticino, Oglio and the
Navigli, true artificial water courses in the middle of towns and cities.
Lombardy is also the region with most lakes, which make it one of the most sought after
destinations in the summer season. In fact, Lake Garda on its own, every year records the arrival of
several million visitors, who swarm on the beautiful beaches of places like Sirmione or Desenzano,
creating stiff competition for the 'historic' holiday and pleasure destinations such as those on the
Romagna Riviera.
The mountain chains are numerous and important, enabling the development also of first class
winter tourism: the Retiche and Lepontin Alps exhibit a very wide variety of landscapes closely
linked to their origin and to the structure of the rocks they consist of.
The region is also characterised by it important role in the past. The Peninsula's most important
communication roads met here, creating the ideal conditions for the creation and development of a
trading society. The annals and economic power of the leading artistic cities such as Monza, Pavia
and Milan itself, lead back to here.



Lombardy, therefore, does not just mean large industrialised cities at the top of the international
panorama, but also a land rich in history and a range of elements that are able to satisfy the desires
and expectations the most demanding tourist.
Visit Lombardy

Marches
A region with endless landscapes

The Marches are the only region with its name in the plural - this is due to its feudal "lay-out". It
extends between the Apennine range and the Adriatic sea, exhibiting some highly varied landscapes;
from the high Apennine mountain environment to the long beaches of the Adriatic sea coast, passing
through gentle hills.
Visiting the Marches means being fascinated by the natural and landscape elements one can
encounter there: they range from the numerous water courses which flow down smoothly from the
Apennine chain, to the splendid coasts heading to the south, also passing through mountain areas
with heights delimiting Apennine sub-regions. The hydrographic network has a very particular
structure, typified by valleys separated from each other by curtains of reliefs which have caused
isolation among the valleys (there is still no efficient road network along the foot of the mountains).
As one moves from one basin to another, one can notice the effect of thousands of years of absent
human contacts, which is reflected in the diversity of usage, customs, traditions, and in dialectal
inflections, and idiomatic cadences. Most of these rivers form extremely beautiful narrow creeks,
such as the gorge of Furlo, Frasassi, Rossa, and the gorges of Valnerina and Piastrone.
The pattern of the coast includes various types of environments: from Porto d’Ascoli to the Conero
promontory, it goes in a south easterly direction, while it varies in Ancona. The shape of the beaches
varies considerably: one starts off with the green Picene riviera, with mainly sandy beaches, and
then reaches the pebbly coasts, with cliffs in some sections, also passing through long, broad sandy
shores. Sometimes, large pine groves with Mediterranean pine trees extend long the edges of the
beach, as in Porto Recanati, or a luxuriant vegetation, with a variety of tropical, subtropical and
Mediterranean trees and bushes, such as palms, oleanders, agaves and some citrus plants. The



waters are exceptionally clean and crystalline thanks to the type of sea bottom, and are blue-green
in the "Due Sorelle" (two sisters) location, situated on the eastern tip of the Conero. A true paradise
for underwater fishing enthusiasts.
The hilly landscape is an unmistakable part of this land. Man has drawn some precise plots of many
different geometric shapes, with endless rows of poplars, dotted with olive trees and luxuriant vines.
The "balcony towns" stand on the top of the hills, taking refuge through the centuries, and
witnessing history: Recanati, Urbino, Fermo, Camerino, Cingoli, Macerata, Loreto are some of the
most beautiful. In Montefeltro, on the borders of Tuscany and Romagna, the environment is mainly
rough, with rugged rocky spurs and giant stone buttresses, like those to which San Leo and the
Republic of San Marino cling.
Visit Marche

Molise
An uncontaminated kingdom

Molise is Italy’s most recently created region, along with being the smallest and the least populated
amongst those with normal status. Amongst the many adjectives that could describe Molise, one
alone can attract tourists: uncontaminated.
The region’s economy is based on agriculture, even though its terrain is not particularly fertile. Its
principal products are cereals, fruit, olive, grapes and tobacco; animal farming is not widely spread.
Industry is largely made up of artisan industries, in the food, metal mechanic, clothing and building
materials sectors. Tourism in both mountain and seaside locations is still fairly insignificant.
The region is uncontaminated for three reasons: because it is little known and visited, for its tight
links with agriculture and sheep farming and for its terrain. Molise is a region that stretches from
Monte Miletto’s peak at 2050 metres to the Adriatic coast and has cultural and historic assets as
well as a unique landscape. It offers a surprising amount of attractions when you consider its size.
These range from the Termoli beaches to the ski resort of Campitello Matese, from the Guardiaregia
natural oasis to the medieval fortifications and towns from the archaeological findings of the
Samnites (an ancient population that lived in this area) and Romans to baroque sacred art.



All in all it is a combination of nature, beauty and tradition that has been preserved in the appeal of
a land yet to be discovered and known. Despite the development of industrial activity, Molise
remains a largely agricultural economy. It is due to this strong rural tradition that craftwork is still
an important business in the region. The area only became a region in 1963, after having been part
of the Abruzzo region and previously part of Terra di Lavoro (province of Caserta) and Capitanata
(currently Puglia). Five rivers flow through the region (Biferno, Trigno, Fortore, Volturno and
Sangro), whilst three artificial reservoirs used for electrical energy production have created three
lakes: Castel San Vincenzo, Guardalfiera and Occhito. Finally, we cannot forget one of the region’s
most well known products, caciocavallo cheese. This cheese already existed in the Magna Grecia
period, and is traditionally produced in southern areas with native cow breeds.
Visit Molise

Piedmont
A region “at the foot of the mountains”

"Salve, Piemonte! A te con melodia mesta da lungi risonante, come gli epici canti del tuo popol
bravo, scendono i fiumi. Scendono pieni, rapidi, gagliardi, come i tuoi cento battaglioni, e a valle
cercan le deste a ragionar di gloria ville e cittadin..." (G. Carducci)*
Piedmont is considered an alpine region par excellence due to the presence of numerous slopes
rising from its surrounding plains. Indeed, the lack of prealpine ranges makes this landscape even
more suggestive, giving you the impression of being immediately in front of the snowy mountains
that host some of the most famous winter tourism locations. Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso and
Monviso are some of the most famous mountains that make up the Alps, one of the world’s most
famous mountain chains. However, this region is not only made up of mountains: the plain and the
hills make Piedmont a green area with the presence of rich vegetation, rivers and numerous lakes,
oasis and natural parks (there are more than twenty protected parks) with many species of animals
and thermal spa areas that make this region, bordering with France and Switzerland, one of Italy’s
best regions for tourists.
In addition, Piedmont is capable of satisfying tourists that want to learn the region’s history during



their holidays. There are numerous cities of art, the main city being Turin, and there are many
possibilities to discover a place that once was the nerve centre of commerce and trade. Indeed, one
of the most important communication roads once passed through Turin, connecting Italy to North
Europe’s main cities.
An ideal season in which to visit these places does not exist. In each moment of the year going to
Piedmont means being able to discover a calm and relaxed atmosphere in a region framed by
mountains. In winter, it is one of the places that skiers appreciate most and in autumn, when the
beauty of its locations mingles with earth’s products, the hill villages become hosts to numerous
festivals and parties. September is the ideal month to go to Lake Maggiore and admire the jubilation
of autumn colours, whilst in summer it is the destination of high altitude excursionists. Finally, for
lovers of local craftwork there are two places to visit: Valenza for its goldsmiths and Saluzzo for
artistic furniture carving. However, behind these two flourishing craft activities there are a large
number of workshops that daily produce traditional objects that are typical of this area.

* These are several verses from “Piemonte” composed by the Italian poet Giosuè Carducci (1835-
1907), who dedicated this famous poem to the beautiful region of Piedmont. This poem can be
found in the "Rime e Ritmi" collection.
Visit Piedmont

Apulia
A natural pearl immersed in the ionian sea

Mainly lying between the Adriatic and Ionian Sea, Puglia is clearly different from other bordering
regions. The land is mostly flat, with no high ground aside from the Gargano headland. Its
geographical position, land, Mediterranean climate and uncontaminated sea, together with the
attractive cultural events and typical cuisine, make this region ideal for a break or a holiday.

For example, the valleys of the Daunia Mountains break down towards the tavoliere pugliese and
the Adriatic Sea with villages gathered on its poor and gaunt clearings that leave room for the more



modern and lively world of the plains. Here, there is a succession of wheat fields, straight roads and
peasant villages with their typically white coloured houses. Onwards towards the Gargano, the
mountains reappear and the villages are gathered on the high grounds. Called the “spur of Italy”, it
has always attracted tourist who spend their summer holidays on its long beaches. The high grounds
open up directly onto the sea and the coast, and alternate between rocky headlands, charming inlets
surrounded by olive trees, caves, pine and citrus plantations and fishing villages built into the sea’s
rocks. Inland, there is the Umbra Forest with more than ten thousand hectares of rich vegetation that
have escaped destruction almost by miracle. In central Puglia, the landscape is dominated by large
terraced orchards and olive groves on lower ground and stretches of grain for grazing on higher
ground. The more lively urban centres can be found on the coast.
In the Murge dei Trulli, the strip of land between Martina Franca, Alberobello, Locorotondo and
Selva di Fasano, all the appeal of the Italic civilisation is brought together. On a red soiled plateau
there are rows of vines, live oak woods and carob woods divided by long dry walls. For those who
come from chaotic and teeming cities there is the possibility of finding a long forgotten sense of
tranquillity and silence in these places, and undertake unique experiences in contact with
marvellous nature in a landscape made up of open space, sun, coasts and sea.
Visit Apulia

Sardinia
Where the sea is bluer than blue

The island changes continuously, plains follow mountains and water “chases” plateaus, providing
fantastic reflections. Sardinia is the second largest Italian island as well as in the Mediterranean Sea,
and is surrounded by very deep waters and almost two thousand kilometres of coastline.
From an orographical point of view the land is a combination of small hillsides, short plateaus and
fairly high mountain ranges. This is because it is ancient territory that has undergone many erosion
processes. The southeast area of the Island is one of the most singular habitats to admire, due its
scarce vegetation and rough landscape and includes the Barbagia and the Gennargentu range. The
territory’s unique morphology and the resulting gradual isolation during the course of the centuries,



has favoured the conservation of the unmodified landscape and customs linked to the Island’s more
atavic traditions. There are few plains and these are not particularly big, except for the Campidano
that stretches from the Gulf of Cagliari to the gulf of Oristano for a total of 100 kilometres. There is
little left of the vast live oak, chestnut and carob forests that were utilised as from the ancient times.
The Sardinian coastlines are famous for their beauty. Their conformation is varied and they offer
various and fascinating landscapes: in some points they are high and rocky, with their peaks
hanging over the sea and in others they leave room for long stretches of sand that run for
kilometres, between enchanting inlets surrounded by small islands. It is impossible to be
disappointed with such a combination of unmistakeable rock colours, nature and seas that display
all possible shades of green and blue.

For people looking for a quiet holiday there are many comfortable and tranquil places, where it is
possible to relax away from noise and carry out various sports. Those people who don’t want to
leave behind their social life and fun, will be equally as happy in the Emerald Coast’s well-known
towns, where names such as Porto Rotondo, Porto Cervo and Golfo Aranci need no presentation.
Visit sardinia

Sicily
From etna’s eternal snow to the splendid coastal resorts

Sicily is a truly amazing universe to discover and love, full of cities with abundant history, white
beaches and a wonderfully coloured sea. Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, and due to
its geographic position it has always been a halfway house between the West and the East, Africa
and Europe and has the rare privilege of being surrounding by three different seas; on the North
there is the Tirrenean, the Ionian on the East and the Mediterranean on the South.
It is a complex, varied island that is difficult to define. Few other Italian regions are able to offer its
variety of environments, its cultural superiority and different social-economic situations. The whole
of Sicily bears the traces of ancient civilisations. In some parts these are easily recognisable such as
Agrigento’s splendid temples or the Cathedral of Monreale and in other they are less well known



such as the stone carvings in the Addaura caves, the pre-historic village of Panarea, and the
numerous necropolis spread over the area. The physical aspects of Sicily are also difficult to
describe. There is Etna’s ever present snow, lush vegetations, orchards and gardens that take on
incredible colours in spring, natural oasis and barren coastlines, fertile plains and uncultivated and
desolate zones.
It goes without saying that tourism in Sicily has continued to grow over the years, due to its
amazing landscapes, enchanting beaches and Mediterranean climate. Poets, writers and travellers of
all eras have celebrated it; it offers the occasion of having not only a relaxing holiday, but also of
being able to discovery the numerous testaments of a millenary past. It is a truly amazing universe
to discover and love.
Visit Sicily

Tuscany
In the cradle of the renaissance

A cultural and seaside holiday in a region with an absolutely unique historical and artistic heritage.
The cradle of the renaissance and an inexhaustible source of important figurative artists up to the
16th century, Tuscany is much more than a museum. The geographical area is largely mountainous
and hilly, crossed by numerous rivers and secondary water courses which make the landscape
varied and diverse. The territory stretches down from the impressive peaks of the Apuan Alps to the
Tuscan tableland, situated between the Arno and the Ombrone, to finally reach the coast
culminating in the Argentario promontory. However, the surprises do not finish here.
Not far from the coast we find the islands of the Tuscan archipelago, including Elba, the largest, and
some smaller islands with a wealth of charm.
Tuscany offers the opportunity to enjoy very different kinds of holiday, suitable for all tastes. The
beaches are equipped with every comfort and the hills are genuine sanctuaries of peace, where you
can immerse yourself in the past, exploring the countryside, perhaps on horseback, and the typical
flavours of times gone by.



Throughout the region art and nature come together harmoniously. The historical and artistic
heritage of extraordinary importance conserved in famous cities such as Florence, Siena, Pisa and
Lucca combines with a landscape which is famous all over the world.
Art here is not limited to an isolated monument or phenomenon and the countryside still reflects the
peasant culture. In the magnificent city of Florence, resting on the banks of the River Arno, in just a
few metres one can see genuine masterpieces by great artists of the calibre of Giotto, Brunelleschi,
Donatello and Michelangelo. Siena has been defined “the only living model of the medieval city”. It
is divided into districts and situated in some of the most beautiful countryside in the world.
Surrounded by walls, Lucca has a wealth of ancient buildings and churches, Livorno is an attractive
seaside city, Grosseto fascinates visitors with the remains of the Etruscan civilisation. Then there
are the cities of Massa and Carrara with their marble quarries, Arezzo and Pistoia. Tuscany offers
more than just art. Here you can also find beautiful countryside, the sea, nature reserves and
entertainment. Tourists can take advantage of first class accommodation facilities along the coast
and visit the splendid islands not far away: Elba, Gorgona, Pianosa, Montecristo, Giglio and
Giannutri.
Visit Tuscany

Trentino-South Tyrol
The appeal of tradition, the power of nature

In each of its corners the Trentino-Alto Adige region offers its visitors a reason to stay and visit, a
warm welcome and total hospitality. The region is synonymous with yearlong tourism: whether it is
bathed in the summer sun or surrounded by a blanket of snow, the opportunities to relax and have
fun are numerous.
In the Trento region alone there are more than one thousand kilometres of ski slopes for nordic or
alpine skiing and snow-boarding: Bondone, Alpe di Luisia, Val di Fiemme Val Rendena and Val di
Fassa are some of its best-known localities; in addition there are ice and curling rinks, ice stadiums
and falls to climb such as Val Daone, considered the ideal destination for climbers. In addition there
are: hikes under the stars, paragliding in the Val di Fassa in Canazei, sled dog courses at Madonna



di Campiglio and the possibility to visit numerous castles and museums, such as the now famous
Mart di Rovereto, for culture lovers.

The Süd Tyrol is made up of mountains and a tantalizing succession of some of Europe’s greenest
valleys where you can spend relaxing holidays, go for long walks, attempt challenging climbs or
ski.
In winter, skiing is undoubtedly the most popular sport, due to the modern ski-lifts and slopes
suitable for all levels: Val Gardena, Marmolada and Val Badia are known worldwide for their
beauty. In spring, you can admire the extensive blossoming of apple trees, whilst in autumn the
valley is striking for its range of colours. Finally, summer is the ideal season for those who enjoy
taking long walks and hikes so as to admire the region’s mountains in all their beauty.
The Alto Adige is also paradise for pony trekking, during which you can rediscover the sensation of
being free: the Renon plateau, the Alpe di Siusi, and the wild woods of San Vigilio di Marebbe and
of Collepietro are just a few examples of places to visit on horseback.
In addition, there are also over two hundred castles that are testament to the history of this “country
amongst the mountains” and an integral part of Bolzano and province.
The entire region is also known for its characteristic Christmas markets in Trento, Bolzano, Merano,
Bressanone and Brunico: these markets originate from popular traditions and offer the best local
craftwork and cuisine.
Visit Trentino-South Tyrol

Umbria
A land of saints, holy places and religious movements where the past, present and future meet

Umbria is a region on a human scale, full of natural and artistic beauties. A land of saints and
religious movements, where the past, present and future meet to create a unique combination. In the
cities’ historic centres throughout the area, the traces of important civilisations from the past are
easy to find: the Etruscan culture, the Roman domination and the birth and development of



communal centres that have left their marks on Orvieto, Spello and Città di Castello. Here, art-
lovers will find easy access to the majority of Italian renaissance art and a large part of antique and
medieval art. Indeed, within a radius of about 100 kilometres, numerous testimonies of the World’s
artistic heritage can be found.
Orvieto, a picturesque city of art, is universally known for the ingenious San Patrizio well and for
its magnificent cathedral. Spello rises at the foot of the Subsaio Mountain and is a picturesque
agricultural city that hosts the remains of an arena, of walls and of three gates from the Roman
times. Spoleto is also a city of great artistic interest and is situated in a beautiful hillside location
and dominated by a fourteenth century rock, whilst Gubbio is a medieval city that is wonderfully
preserved and full of artistic monuments, churches and buildings.
Obviously Assisi, in the heart of Umbria, is not to be missed being picturesque and in a very
panoramic position. It is the city of peace and spiritual contemplation.
Visit Umbria

Valle d'Aosta
A “vertical” region

This is how the Val d’Aosta could be described, due its many high peaks that border the region
(amongst which there is Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest mountain). But this small region is also
blessed with a surprising amount of natural beauties, monuments and precious artistic and historic
assets.
Aosta is the regional capital and the only province in the Valley, and is a city full of history. The
many remainders of the ancient Augusta Pretoria (Aosta’s Latin name) are visible, such as the large
Arco di Augusto and the remains of the Roman Theatre. The Medieval period was extremely
prosperous for Aosta: it was an important crossroads for commercial trade between France and
Switzerland and therefore underwent a long period of well-being.
The Valley’s natural scenery is magnificent: from Mont Blanc’s breathtaking peaks to the harsh
beauty of Cervino, from the spectacular Monte Rosa (so-called because of the colour that its



glaciers become at certain times of day) to Gran Paradiso, the large mountain in the middle of a
Nature Park with the same name. This park has over 200,000 hectares of woodlands and landscapes
inhabited by uniquely beautiful and charming species of animals.
The Valley’s tourist centres and ski resorts have a well-established reputation, such as the well-
known Courmayer and Breuil Cervinia. Amongst the region’s typical products there are Fontina
(cheese) and Jambon, a special ham from the Valle del Gran San Bernardo. Juniper, thyme and the
valley’s herbs give it a delicate and aromatic aroma and it is left to mature in hay, which gives it an
unmistakable fragrance. The DOP brand certifies its origins and guarantees the quality of the whole
production process: it is only produced in the small village of Saint Rhémy en Bosses, at an altitude
of 1.600 metres, following an ancient tradition passed down through generations. In the Valle
d’Aosta, culture can also be found in its cuisine.
Visit Aosta Vallery

Veneto
Discovering the “winged lion”

Veneto means beautiful and unique cities such as Venice and Verona, the spectacle of the Dolomites,
art, history, ancient traditions and food and wine just waiting to be discovered. Among the many
artistic itineraries offered by the region, one should not miss a tour of the gently rolling Berici hills
to the south of Vicenza, an area which over the centuries has seen the construction of magnificent
aristocratic residences.
By car, it is possible to explore extraordinary villas, some Palladian, set in an equally beautiful
natural landscape. However, Veneto also means long, attractive and well-equipped beaches,
magnificent countryside and entertainment. The Veneto seaside, with its sandy beaches, highly
efficient facilities, great gastronomic traditions and numerous bars, clubs and restaurants responds
to the needs and expectations of even the most demanding visitors, whether Italian or foreign.
In the towns along the coast, easily accessible from the major road networks in the Region, it is
possible to combine rest and entertainment, sport and relaxation, breathing in the fresh air, far from
the chaos of the city. The wide beaches sloping down gently to the sea are ideal above all for



families and children, while at the same time the sports facilities of all kinds are capable of
satisfying the needs of young people. There are several attractive seaside resorts along the almost
one hundred kilometres of beaches, each with its own character, the result of small details, nuances
and local traditions. One of these is Bibione, a more recent addition to the panorama of international
tourist resorts, where the natural environment combines well with modernity.
The cycle paths, the splendid seaside promenade and the wealth of sports facilities make Bibione
the ideal place for a range of activities, including football, tennis, basketball, beach volleyball,
swimming, mini golf, athletics and sailing. Continuing our journey, further south we find the old
town of Caorle. The origins of the town date back to ancient times and it is now one of the most
versatile seaside resorts in Veneto, with its own unmistakeable character. Having passed beyond the
mouth of the River Piave, after Porto Santa Margherita and Eraclea Mare we reach Lido di Jesolo.
With its 500 hotels, 15 thousand villas, houses and flats and around ten campsites it is undoubtedly
the most important tourist resort in Veneto.
Just a short distance from Venice and its magnificent islands, we find Cavallino, the most important
“open-air” tourist resort in Europe. Every aspect of town and cultural planning has been organised
with a view to open-air tourism and the result is an extremely diversified range of facilities, always
characterised by the maximum comfort and freedom.
Visit Veneto

Camping – Agriturismo – Hotel – Residences – B&B - Italy


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The Best Of Italy - Travel Guide by ItaliaVacanze.com