Italy, with its awe-inspiring art, architecture and food, is no background actor on the world’s stage. The epicenter of the Roman Empire and the birthplace of the Renaissance, this European virtuoso practically groans under the weight of its cultural cachet.
The challenge is not so much where to go – an amazing experience is honestly assured wherever you end up – but rather how to go about it. Advice on the best things to do, from a veteran visitor to Italy, can help you turn every trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
1. Tour Rome, the epicenter of the Roman Empire
Working out the best way to spend your time in the Italian capital is a cultural conundrum. Rome is the former caput mundi (capital of the world), the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the spiritual HQ of the Christian world and the repository for over two millennia of European art and architecture. The city exudes must-see sights from every pore.
Zooming around Italy’s Eternal City on the back of a Vespa moped to sightsee at speed is one option and a great way to sample the dolce vita (good life). From the Colosseum (buy a “Full Experience” ticket to access the underground vaults), the Pantheon and the Roman Forum to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, there’s history and culture at every turn.
Planning tip: There’s simply too much to cover in a single visit, so before you leave, toss a coin into the pool below the wild horses and cascading rockfalls of the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to this captivating city.
2. Hit the ski slopes and hiking trails in Valle d’Aosta
Ringed by some of Europe’s highest peaks, including Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso, the Aosta Valley sports some of the best winter sports facilities on the continent. In fashionable Courmayeur, winter skiers descend hair-raising runs into France and Switzerland, crossing glaciers and returning via lofty cable cars.
And when the snow melts, spectacular hiking trails in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso and around Mont Blanc await. Whatever the season, keep your ears peeled for Franco-Provençal (also known as Valdôtain), the Franco-Italian valley’s distinctive local language.
3. Enjoy the drama and excitement of Naples’ street life
As Italy’s…
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