How To Decide Which Luxury Destinations To Visit In Italy
I first went to Italy as a twenty-two-year-old backpacker, making my way through Europe. It was one of my first destinations, and as such really left its mark on my travel history. Everything about Italy seemed magical at the time, and its magic lives on even after repeat visits. There is so much to see and do throughout Italy, no matter what kind of trip you're looking for.
These days, I visit Italy on a much higher budget, and use Luxury Retreats to find ideal homes to stay in. Of course, Italy is perfect for those of us who love living it up, and its various cities are designed to perfectly accommodate our tastes.
No matter what type of trip you're looking for, Italy has something for you. Here is a guide as to which cities and destinations to visit, depending on your personality.
For the history buff: Rome
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Rome has everything for the individual who loves both ancient and modern history. The city has some of the most recognizable landmarks under the sun, with the Colosseum and the Pantheon perhaps receiving the most hype.
It’s the sort of city in which you can happily get lost, in between visiting cultural monuments. No matter what your heritage, Roman history almost certainly had its impact on your ancestors, and a visit to these sites is inevitably personal.
When in Rome (I know, right), you have to go see the Vatican. The Sistine Chapel alone is worth it for Michelangelo's famous frescoes.
For the artist: Florence
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Artists will fall in love with most of Italy, but Florence takes the cake as the most significant. It is considered the art capital of the world, while being a work of art itself. It’s a beautiful city, and one that inspires artists through more than just the famous works to which it is home.
Of course, the Piazza del Duomo is what draws millions of tourists each year, making it one of Europe’s most visited spots. The Duomo is only part of a much greater whole, but you can spend many hours (or days) there if you are even slightly interested in its landmark domes and arches.
For the romantic: Lake Como
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On our honeymoon, my partner and I stayed at Lake Como and I can confirm that it is the most romantic place on earth! Set against the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is breathtakingly picturesque. But it is not just great to look at. You won’t ever want to leave the village of Varenna once you step foot in it, and Bellagio will have you spoilt for choice in terms of places to eat as well as significant artifacts.
Lake Como doesn't have to be done with a partner, but it is the ideal place for lovers to relax together and find the typical Italian passion. You will never get enough of Lake Como.
For lovers of the countryside: Siena
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Do you dream of living in the country, with rolling hills, quaint homes, and vineyards? If so, Siena is for you. I can easily imagine myself settling down in Siena after I retire. I could even imagine myself doing so long before I retire! There is plenty to do and see in and around Siena, and you'll want to take it all in, but my idea of perfect is spending significant time relaxing in luxury in the countryside.
You can also use Siena as your base if you want to visit all the interesting places and landmarks in Tuscany, coming home late to peace and quiet and an idyllic setting.
For everyone: Venice
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Everyone has to go to Venice some day. It may not be your cup of tea it certainly has its downsides but it is an experience you'll have nowhere else. None of the uo;Little Venices” around the world come anywhere close to the real Venice’s charm. A gondola ride down the canals of Venice is so perfect that you won’t want to ruin the moment by taking photos. At the same time, you'll find it impossible not to Instagram the immense quaintness and beauty.
Venice is also one of those places every lover of architecture has to visit. Throughout Italy you will find significant architectural landmarks (and especially so in Rome and Florence). But Venice is unique and unmissable as a city that not only made the most of its unusual landscape but turned it into one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
For the outdoors type: The Dolomites
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You don’t have to be a hiker to enjoy the Dolomites, but it certainly helps. The landscape is incredibly friendly to those with a love for the picturesque, and hiking in the mountain range is the best way to see it. The air will make you feel healthier just for being there, and you will satiate your adventurous side.
The towns that dot the region are lovely and interesting too. Some towns used to be part of Austria, and you will hear plenty of German being spoken, to fit with a culture that differs somewhat from the rest of Italy.
No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is something for you in Italy. Make it home to your next luxury vacation. You won’t regret it for a moment, as you tour through the various historical, artistic, cultural, architectural, and picturesque sites throughout the country.
