In 2015 alone, there was a staggering 193 million nights spent in Italy by holiday-goers and unsurprisingly, it was one of the top tourist destinations in Europe that year. With so much to see and do in Italy, it has continued to be a traveller’s haven and it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend, a family holiday or a couple’s retreat.
We’ve picked some of our favourite cultural highlights from Italy to give you some inspiration for your next holiday:
The Ruins of Rome
Steeped in history, with thousands of years’ worth of influential art, architecture and culture, you can visit the city of Rome again and again and always find something new to see. The main attraction is the colosseum, an ancient Roman gladiatorial area which is now an iconic symbol of the capital, and of the country as a whole.
Some of the other popular landmarks in Rome include:
- Trevi Fountain, sculpted in the 18th century
- The Roman Forum, which was once the heart of the Roman Empire
- Vatican City, headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope
- Sistine Chapel, best known for Michelangelo’s 16th century painted ceiling
Relaxing in Lake Garda
Lake Garda is the perfect holiday spot for those looking for a relaxing break – you can admire the views of the lake with an ice cream in hand or spend some time leisurely taking in the amazing views of the nearby picturesque villages of Brescia, Moniga and Peschiera.
Some of the highlights include the Garda boat trips to see the lake from a different perspective, the delicious seafood and the stunning national parks nearby. All of these places are easily reached from Eurocamp’s holiday parcs, who offer luxury holiday homes as a base for travellers exploring the region.
Sampling the Delicacies in Tuscany
Italy is a haven for foodies, with dishes that are celebrated all over the world. Right in the centre of the country, the region of Tuscany has a reputation for fine dining. Don’t leave without trying some of their delicious cuisine including fettunta (also known as bruschetta), chicken liver pâté crostinis and potato tortelli.
If you see yourself as a bit of a wine connoisseur, head for a wine tasting at one of the highest towns in Tuscany, Montalcino, which is right at the centre of prestigious wine region.
Of course, it’s not just the food that makes it such a popular region with holiday-goers. There’s also plenty of iconic landmarks that you should add to your itinerary, like Pisa – not just the leaning tower but also the rest of the stunning architecture of Campo dei Miracoli.
If you’re looking for a cultured holiday with good food and wine, stunning attractions and tons of history, then consider booking a holiday to Italy. With such a diverse choice of places to visit, you’ll never be short of something to do on your Italian break.