Italy

Rome is a city rich in must-see historical and cultural sites. The iconic Colosseum offers insight into the history of gladiators and the Roman Empire. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill offer impressive ruins to explore, testament to the political and religious heart of antiquity. Vatican City, with St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, offers a wealth of sacred art and grandiose architecture. For art lovers, the Borghese Gallery and the National Roman Museum feature major collections. The neighborhoods of Trastevere, Monti, Campo de' Fiori, and Testaccio are perfect for exploring local life, with their markets, traditional restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Roman cuisine is another highlight: carbonara, cacio e pepe, supplì, and gelato are must-try options. The city can also be explored on foot, strolling through its cobbled streets and admiring monuments like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon. To get around, the metro and buses serve the center well, but walking remains the best way to soak up the atmosphere. Finally, Rome also offers a variety of activities such as evening tours, walks along the Tiber, or cooking classes.

Florence is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, renowned for its museums and exceptional architecture. The Uffizi Gallery exhibits masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The Duomo, with its spectacular dome designed by Brunelleschi, dominates the city and offers panoramic views. The medieval Ponte Vecchio, lined with shops, is an iconic place to stroll. The Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens offer an immersion in aristocratic Renaissance life. The narrow streets of the center are rich in local crafts, cafés, and trattorias, perfect for sampling Tuscan cuisine. The city is also pleasant to explore on foot, allowing you to discover squares like Piazza della Signoria and Santa Croce.

Venice is a unique city built on a network of canals that replace streets. St. Mark's Square, with its basilica and the Doge's Palace, is the city's historic and tourist heart. Cruising by gondola or vaporetto along the Grand Canal offers different perspectives of the city. The islands of Murano, famous for its glassblowing, and Burano, known for its colorful houses, are well worth a visit. Venice is also a place where wandering through the narrow streets reveals peaceful squares, typical cafes, and Renaissance palaces. The numerous museums and churches complete the cultural experience.

Milan is the Italian capital of fashion and design, but also a city steeped in history. The Duomo, an imposing Gothic cathedral, is a must-see, as is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant shopping arcade. La Scala is famous for its opera and concerts. Sforza Castle is home to several art and history museums. Milan also offers a vibrant nightlife, trendy restaurants, and neighborhoods like Brera, perfect for shopping and cultural outings.

Naples is a vibrant and authentic city, known for its original pizza and its UNESCO-listed historic center. The Castel dell'Ovo, Piazza del Plebiscito, and the National Archaeological Museum are must-sees. Naples is also the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Mount Vesuvius. The bustling streets, markets, and culinary scene make Naples a destination rich in experiences.

Bologna, nicknamed "Red" for its terracotta roofs, is famous for its long arcades that stretch over 38 km through the city. It has one of the oldest universities in Europe and an exceptional gastronomic scene: lasagna, tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese), mortadella, and Parmesan cheese. The historic center offers medieval towers, lively squares, and typical markets.

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a region rich in history, culture, and diverse landscapes. Its capital, Palermo, blends Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences, with bustling markets, historic palaces, and a culinary scene renowned for specialties like arancini and cannoli. The south and east of the island offer major ancient sites, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Greek Theatre in Taormina, as well as impressive panoramas of Mount Etna, the active volcano that dominates the region. Catania, located at the foot of Mount Etna, captivates with its Baroque architecture and nearby beaches. Between vibrant cities, ancient ruins, and natural landscapes, Sicily offers travelers a complete and authentic experience.

The Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are seven volcanic islands accessible by ferry from Sicily. Lipari, the largest, charms visitors with its picturesque streets and historic castle. Stromboli is famous for its active volcano, which offers unique nighttime spectacles with its luminous eruptions. Vulcano invites relaxation with its natural hot springs. Salina, Panarea, Filicudi, and Alicudi complete the archipelago with their wild landscapes, unspoiled beaches, and peaceful atmospheres, ideal for nature and hiking enthusiasts. The Aeolian Islands combine natural beauty and volcanic adventure, perfect for an off-the-beaten-track getaway.