At the heart of the Mediterranean Sea lies the Republic of Italy. Known for its cuisine, culture, and scenic terrain, this boot-shaped destination is one of the most visited countries in Europe, bringing in around 62 million tourists annually. If you're not gazing at the lush, rolling hills covered with vineyards, you're wandering through the cobblestoned corridors and admiring sweeping sea views. Italy is known as "Bel Paese'', or the beautiful country, for a reason.
There’s a lot to do and see, so we’re breaking down our most popular destinations. From the Rialto bridge to the Milan Cathedral, our experienced local guides will curate private and personalized tour experiences to last a lifetime.
Rome
There's no better place to start than with the capital city of Rome. If legend is to be believed, this city was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus back in 753 BCE. Rome grew in prominence and economic power along the banks of the river Tiber. Today, you can tour the seven hills, including the Palatine and Capitoline Hill, which became the central focal points of power for the Roman Empire.
There's nothing like your first time in The Colosseum. Built between 70 and 72 CE, you can imagine the cheers from over 50,000 spectators who observed gladiatorial games, theatrical dramas, and even executions. Not to worry, as our guides will take you through the deep, painful, and jaw-dropping stories from this massive amphitheater.
For a tranquil atmosphere, head to the Fontana Di Trevi, or Trevi Fountain. Located at the Piazza Di Trevi, this fountain pays homage to the Roman god of the sea. The massive 26-meter statue features Neptune on his chariot, surrounded by seahorses and tritons. Tourists flock here to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish.
The Italians have a knack for stunning cathedrals, best displayed within the walls of Vatican City. To appreciate some impressive art, check out St. Peter's Basilica, where Michelangelo's "La Pieta'' lies. For those who crave more, head to the Vatican Museums, where you can view Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Rome wasn't built in a day, but you can bet your tour will be full of fascinating stops.
Venice
Next stop, the city of water! Found in north-eastern Italy, Venice has long been known as the "queen of the Adriatic" thanks to her strategic position along the Adriatic coast. Built along 120 small islands connected by bridges forming the Venetian Causeway, this seaport city is an architectural anomaly. It's something you have to see to truly comprehend.
You can get to most places by boat, so there's no way you'd leave Venice without taking an iconic gondola tour along the Grand Canal. This main waterway carries the secrets of the Venetian Republic along a 3 km stretch. On your ride, you'll encounter key landmarks such as the Mozart House, the Fenice Theater, and the Salute Church. Shakespeare fans will be happy to see the Contarini Fasan Palace, or Desdemona's house, the pivotal character from "Othello".
Be sure to stop by the Basilica di San Marco, also known as St. Mark's Basilica. The structural masterpiece hosts 8,000 sq. meters of 24-carat gold mosaics, and the bronze horses are awe-inspiring. Inside, the Pala d'Oro altarpiece dominates, adorned with 2,000 pearls, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, amethysts, and other gems.
Close by is the Doge Palace, also known as the Palazzo Ducale. Constructed in 1424, this lavish, gothic-style structure was the former residence of the supreme authority of the Venetian Republic. It also acted as a meeting hub for the government at the time. It's a key highlight of the renaissance era and is now a museum worth exploring.
These locations have specific rules that our guides will talk you through to avoid misunderstandings.
Verona
It is in fair Verona where we lay our next scene. Welcome to the land that inspired the vivid imagery behind Romeo and Juliet. Often understated and quaint, this small city is the perfect rest stop on a tour of Western Europe. Founded in the first century BCE, Verona blossomed during the 15th and 18th centuries under the rule of the Venetian Republic. It was known as a military stronghold but has grown into a "lover's city" with vibrant colors and Shakespearean charm.
Get to the heart of Verona at the Centro Storico where you'll encounter Austrian architecture, Roman relics, and the Scaliger tombs. The tombs house Verona's former lords and rulers, the Della Scalla family. During their rule, gothic buildings such as the Arch Scaligeri, which you can see today, were built. You can even visit Juliet Capulet's house and soak in the quirky history behind it. For a leisurely day, hang back at some of the many restaurants offering a fine selection of Verona's classic meals such as Amarone risotto and pandoro.
At the edge of Centro Storico lies the Arena di Verona, a monument to the city's cultural importance. It was built in the first century AD, preceding Rome's colosseum. Known for holding gladiatoral fights, operas, concerts, and theater performances, the arena is one of the many reasons Verona was named a world heritage site. Today, the arena is a popular venue for opera. Right next to the arena is the buzzing Piazza bra, where you'll find colorful buildings, cafés, and shops. It's the perfect mix of modern convenience and historical significance.
Milan
Next up is the fashion lover’s dream, and one of the fashion capitals of the world, Milan. Known for its high-end brand stores, edgy street style, and sophistication, Milan has even more to it than first imagined. The Duomo Di Milano is a creation six centuries in the making. Established in the 14th century, the cathedral features exquisitely carved marble interiors and enormous stained-glass windows. Book your cathedral tour for the morning hours and slowly walk through the church without much interruption from larger crowds.
Finish your tour around noon and head to the iconic Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo, which is a stone's throw away. You'll arrive just in time for them to open and enjoy some authentic Napoli-style pizza.
When touring Milan, it's hard to ignore the city's commercial success. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II honors the country's contribution to retail and fashion. You'd be forgiven for mistaking this place for a renaissance era museum. It has the classic beauty one would expect from Milanese architecture.
Constructed in 1865 as a connection point between the Piazza Della Scalla and the Piazza del Duomo, it's a hub for designer stores and five-star restaurants. Looking up, you'll see a magnificent dome and on different floors, you'll see a series of mosaics holding the history of Turin, Florence, Rome, and Milan. Top off your trip with local cuisine. The Minestrone Milanese is said to host all the flavors of the region.
Florence
Lastly, we’ll shine a light on the city of lilies, Florence. If you’ve always wanted to explore the Tuscan region, there's no better place to start than right here. With so many must-see stops, the Piazza Della Signoria is a great central location to kick things off. From there, you'll be able to see historical monuments like the Palazzo Vecchio building and the Loggia Dei Lanzi outdoor museum.
The statues of Perseus and Neptune are as breathtaking as the Michelangelo in the nearby Galleria Dell'accademia. Museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Bargello hold the highlights of the medieval and renaissance era, making Florence one of the most historically relevant locations in the world.
A few steps away lies the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, designed by Italian architect Arnolfo Di Cambio. A spectacular feat of marble and brick that took 200 years to reach full completion, the cathedral has undergone several renovations to become the structure we celebrate today.
Florence is also home to a vibrant culinary community, and you can treat your palate to the flavorful foods of the Oltrarno area.
The Osteria Antica Mescita San Niccolò is one of the many authentically Florentine restaurants. For those who desire a mix of the past and present, the Osteria of the Gucci Museum is a five-star experience you won't want to miss. Lovers of artisanal crafts can indulge in Florence's leatherworking community, some of the stores being located near the beautiful Ponte Vecchio bridge.
Conclusion
Though it barely scratches the tip of the iceberg, this list gives you a taste of what your journey through the Repubblica Italiana could be. From southern Sicily to the hills of Tuscany, there’s never a shortage of adventure. To fully immerse yourself in the Italian experience, get in touch with one of our guides and plan your tour today. Ci Vediamo!
