Highlights of Italy by region

Turin, nestled at the foothills of the Alps, boasts a fascinating history spanning over two millennia, beginning as a Celtic settlement called Taurasia. The Romans established the colony of Augusta Taurinorum around 28 BCE, designing the city with their characteristic grid pattern that remarkably still defines Turin's modern street layout. The city features one of the world's best-preserved 1st-century BCE Roman gateways, the Palatine Towers, which originally had four doors - two larger ones for chariots and two smaller ones for pedestrians and horses. The ancient Roman urban planning is still visible in the Quadrilatero Romano district, where the original decumanus maximus (now Via Garibaldi) and cardo maximo (now Via San Tommaso) intersect. After serving various empires and kingdoms throughout history, Turin gained prominence as the first capital of unified Italy from 1861 to 1865. Today, visitors can explore this elegant city's Roman heritage through well-preserved ruins, including sections of the original city walls along Via Giuseppe Barbaroux, while the city's rational structure and grid system serve as a living testament to its Roman origins.

Genoa, a historic port city in northwestern Italy, boasts over 2,200 years of fascinating history since its founding by the ancient Romans around 200 BCE. The city features one of Europe's largest medieval centres and is renowned for its unique blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. As the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and the location of the world's oldest state deposit bank (founded in 1407), Genoa's maritime heritage runs deep. The city's picturesque harbour, redeveloped by acclaimed architect Renzo Piano, now houses Europe's largest aquarium. Genoa's culinary legacy is equally impressive, being the birthplace of pesto alla Genovese, a delicious sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and cheese. The city's strategic location along the Ligurian Sea, surrounded by mountains, has shaped its development as a maritime powerhouse, and today it remains Italy's busiest port. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palazzi dei Rolli showcases the city's architectural splendour, while the narrow alleyways known locally as "caruggi" offer visitors a glimpse into medieval life.

Cinque Terre, meaning "Five Lands" in Italian, comprises five stunning coastal villages perched dramatically on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera, which have been inhabited since the Bronze Age and became part of the Roman Empire in the 2nd century BCE. These UNESCO World Heritage villages showcase remarkable human ingenuity through their terraced vineyards carved into steep limestone cliffs, where locals produce the renowned Sciacchetrà wine. The region's dramatic landscape features natural harbours that historically served as fishing ports, while the colourful houses stacked along the cliffs inspired the Disney film "Luca". The area's isolation, which persisted until the railway arrived in the 19th century and roads in the 1960s, has preserved its authenticity and traditional Ligurian cuisine, famous for fresh seafood, locally-made pesto, and focaccia. Today, visitors can explore approximately 120 kilometres of footpaths connecting the villages, discover hidden coves with crystal-clear waters, and observe diverse marine life in the rock pools, all while experiencing a car-free environment that helps preserve this remarkable cultural landscape.

Portofino is a picturesque harbour town that was first documented by Pliny the Elder in the first century CE as "Portus Delphini" (Port of the Dolphin) due to the pods of dolphins that frequented its crystalline waters. This former fishing village, now home to just 400 residents, boasts a stunning natural landscape with 900 species of plant life and numerous hiking trails within its regional nature park. The town's iconic harbour is lined with pastel-painted buildings, whilst its waters offer unique activities like coasteering - a combination of trekking, rock climbing, diving and swimming. Portofino is particularly renowned for its culinary heritage, especially its signature pesto alla Genovese, which derives its unique aroma from locally-grown basil cultivated on the town's hillsides. The town's artistic charm extends to its architecture, where some balconies are actually clever trompe l'oeil paintings rather than real structures. In the 1950s, Portofino transformed from a quiet fishing village into a glamorous destination, attracting Hollywood luminaries such as Rex Harrison, Ava Gardner, Lauren Bacall, and Humphrey Bogart, who filmed "The Barefoot Contessa" there.

Lake Como, Italy's third-largest and deepest lake, was formed by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, creating its distinctive Y-shape with a shoreline extending 160 km. This ancient "Lario" (meaning "deep place") has drawn visitors since Roman times and boasts an astounding six trillion gallons of water. The area features the elegant town of Bellagio at its centre, the 14th-century Villa del Balbianello (featured in James Bond and Star Wars films), and numerous historic villas dating back to Roman times. Read more

Milan stands as Italy's bustling financial and fashion capital, where ancient splendour meets modern sophistication. The city's crown jewel is the magnificent Gothic Duomo (cathedral), which took nearly six centuries to complete and features 135 spires adorning its marble facade. Art enthusiasts can marvel at Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece 'The Last Supper', a 5x9-metre mural housed in Santa Maria delle Grazie. The majestic Sforza Castle, a 15th-century fortress, now houses multiple museums including Michelangelo's final work, the Pietà Rondanini. The elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's oldest shopping centre, showcases a stunning glass-roofed arcade where luxury boutiques and cafés reside. The city's cultural prowess is exemplified by the prestigious Teatro alla Scala opera house, which traditionally opens its season on 7th December. The city boasts impressive green spaces, including Parco Sempione with its grand Arco della Pace, whilst the vibrant I Navigli district charms visitors with its picturesque canals, artisan shops, and lively restaurants. For science buffs, the Leonardo da Vinci Science Museum houses fascinating models based on the polymath's original sketches, including submarines and aircraft. The innovative spirit of Milan continues in the Porta Nuova district, where the remarkable Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) towers feature trees and plants growing on their terraces, representing a unique blend of architecture and nature.

Mantua, known to Italians as 'La Bella Addormentata' (The Sleeping Beauty), is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that flourished during the Renaissance under the Gonzaga family's 400-year rule. The city is uniquely surrounded by three artificial lakes created in the 12th century as defensive barriers. Home to the second-largest residence in Italy after the Vatican, the magnificent Palazzo Ducale boasts 500 rooms. The city's cultural significance extends to literature and arts, being the birthplace of the Roman poet Virgil and the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Mantua's gastronomic excellence earned it the title of European Capital of Gastronomy in 2017, with signature dishes including tortelli di zucca (pumpkin-filled pasta), risotto alla pilota (made with local rice and pork sausage), and the traditional stracotto d'asino (donkey stew). The city's remarkable preservation and lack of urban development have helped it maintain its Renaissance-era charm, making it one of Italy's most liveable cities.

Florence, founded as a Roman military colony in 59 BCE, sits gracefully on the Arno River and was the first European city to have paved streets in the 14th century. This enchanting Tuscan capital, home to 364,073 residents, is often called the Cradle of the Renaissance and houses approximately 30% of the world's most important artworks. The city's remarkable features include Brunelleschi's dome atop the cathedral, which remains the largest brick and mortar dome globally, and the world's oldest pharmacy, established in 1221. Florence's cultural significance extends beyond art - it's the birthplace of gelato, allegedly invented in the 16th century, and the Italian language itself, thanks to Dante Alighieri's works. The city once boasted over 100 defensive towers built by rival families, though these were later shortened when Florence became a republic. Today, visitors can explore the bustling Mercato Centrale for fresh local produce, savour the famous Bistecca alla Fiorentina (traditional T-bone steak), or wander through the Uffizi Gallery, all while experiencing a living museum where Renaissance masterpieces meet contemporary Tuscan life.

Situated in Tuscany where the Arno River meets the Ligurian Sea, Pisa boasts a rich history dating back to Etruscan times, later becoming a Roman colony around 180 BCE. The city flourished as a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages, competing with Venice and Genoa for Mediterranean dominance. Beyond its iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa houses the world's first university botanical garden, established in 1543, and is home to the prestigious University of Pisa, where Galileo Galilei conducted his groundbreaking studies on pendulums and time measurement. The city's culinary heritage features delectable dishes like cacciucco (fish stew) and cecina (chickpea pancake), whilst its architectural splendour extends far beyond the famous Piazza dei Miracoli, encompassing diverse styles from Romanesque to Gothic, as exemplified by the intricate Santa Maria della Spina church along the Arno. The city retains much of its 6.5-mile circuit of medieval walls and features fascinating archaeological remains that confirm its significance as an ancient maritime centre.

Lucca, a charming Tuscan city encircled by remarkably preserved Renaissance walls from the 16th century, was originally settled by the Etruscans and later became a Roman colony in 180 BCE. The city's fascinating history is evident in its perfectly preserved rectangular Roman street layout and the oval-shaped Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, which follows the outline of an ancient Roman amphitheatre. One of its most distinctive landmarks is the 45-metre Guinigi Tower, crowned with a hanging garden of oak trees on its rooftop. The city flourished through its silk trade during the medieval period, producing the renowned Lucca cloth woven with gold or silver threads. Today, Lucca is celebrated as the birthplace of famous composers like Giacomo Puccini and Luigi Boccherini, and hosts Europe's largest comics and games festival. For food enthusiasts, local specialities include garmugia (a spring soup with artichokes and asparagus) and tordelli lucchesi (meat-stuffed pasta dressed with meat sauce). The city's elegant architecture, tree-lined walls perfect for cycling, and well-preserved historical centre make it one of Tuscany's most captivating destinations.

Perched on the slopes of Monte Subasio, the enchanting city of Assisi boasts a well-preserved historic center with stunning limestone buildings that sparkle in the evening light. Visitors can explore its narrow cobblestone streets, admire the sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside. The crown jewel of Assisi is the magnificent Basilica di San Francesco, home to some of Italy's most celebrated frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue. Beyond its religious significance, Assisi offers a blend of Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and vibrant piazzas.

Perched dramatically atop a volcanic rock plateau, Orvieto medieval gem is renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Orvieto, which boasts a magnificent facade and intricate frescoes. The town's charm lies in its winding cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses, and panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside. Orvieto's unique appeal extends underground, with a fascinating network of Etruscan caves, wells, and tunnels that visitors can explore. The city is also famous for its crisp white wines and rich culinary traditions, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.

Perugia, the capital of Umbria, is a captivating city perched atop a hill overlooking the Tiber valley. This medieval gem boasts a rich history dating back to Etruscan times, evident in its well-preserved architecture and ancient city walls. Perugia's historic center is a maze of narrow alleys, grand palaces, and stunning piazzas, with the impressive Palazzo dei Priori housing the renowned Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria. The city is famous for its chocolate, particularly the Baci confection, and hosts the annual Eurochocolate festival. With two historic universities, Perugia maintains a youthful and cosmopolitan atmosphere, blending cultural heritage with modern vibrancy. Founded in 1308, the University of Perugia is the 9th oldest in the world and the oldest in central Italy. Visitors to Perugia can enjoy panoramic views from the ancient aqueduct, explore underground medieval streets and the vibrant local food scene.

Naples is one of Europe's oldest cities. Founded as Parthenope in the 9th century BCE and later re-established as Neapolis ("New City") in 470 BCE, it played a crucial role in transmitting Greek culture to Roman society. The city flourished under Roman rule, becoming a favoured holiday destination for wealthy Romans, including emperors Claudius and Tiberius. Naples boasts remarkable archaeological sites, such as sections of Greek town walls and remains of a Roman theatre. The imposing Castel dell'Ovo, though remodelled over time, stands as a testament to the Norman period. Today, visitors can explore the city's fascinating layers of history, from its Greek origins to its time as the largest city in Europe during the Spanish Empire, whilst enjoying its world-renowned cuisine and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius. Additionally, Naples is home to the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the world's finest collections of Roman artefacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes from Pompeii. Naples is also considered the birthplace of pizza, a legacy of its culinary creativity.

Capri, an island in the Bay of Naples, Italy, has long enchanted visitors with its stunning landscapes and fascinating history. Known as a retreat for Roman emperors, it was particularly favoured by Emperor Tiberius, who ruled the Roman Empire from his villa on the island, Villa Jovis, from 27 to 37 CE. The island's Blue Grotto, a sea cave illuminated by an ethereal blue light, was likely used as a nymphaeum (a sanctuary dedicated to water nymphs) in ancient times. Capri is also geologically remarkable, formed by limestone and shaped by tectonic activity, offering breathtaking cliffs and caves. Today, it is a haven for naturalists and history enthusiasts alike, blending natural beauty with layers of antiquity..

The Royal Palace of Caserta is a magnificent 18th-century palace that rivals Versailles in grandeur. Commissioned by Charles VII of Naples in 1752, it boasts 1,200 rooms, 1,742 windows, and covers a staggering 47,000 square metres, making it the largest royal residence in the world by volume. The palace's 120-hectare park features a stunning 3.3km-long canal with fountains and cascades, supplied by the ingenious Carolino Aqueduct. The park’s layout nods to ancient Roman hydraulic engineering, blending classical influences with Baroque and Neoclassical design. The complex also includes the first example of an English Garden in Italy, commissioned by Queen Maria Carolina in 1786, showcasing over 200 botanical species. Film enthusiasts might recognise the palace's grand entrance hall from appearances in Star Wars and Mission Impossible.

The Amalfi Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages, has been a sought-after destination for centuries. Originally founded by the Romans in the 4th century CE, Amalfi became a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages, dominating trade in the western Mediterranean. The coast's history is intertwined with naval prowess, as exemplified by Amalfi's medieval arsenal, the only known surviving example in southern Italy. The Amalfi Coast's towns, such as Ravello and Positano, flourished in the Middle Ages, with Ravello hosting a vibrant cultural scene and a famous music festival. Scientifically, the area's unique microclimate supports a rich variety of plant species, some of which were cultivated by the Romans, including the region's renowned lemons, which have been a key part of the local economy for millennia.

Pompeii, located near modern Naples, is a fascinating snapshot of ancient Roman life, preserved in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. This bustling city, founded around the 6th century BCE, thrived as a hub of trade and culture, with lavish villas, bustling forums, and intricate frescoes showcasing the artistry of the time. Its streets reveal innovative Roman engineering, including sophisticated aqueducts and stepping stones for crossing flooded roads. The eruption's ash remarkably preserved everything from graffiti to everyday household items, providing unique insights into Roman daily life. Visitors can explore sites like the amphitheatre, one of the oldest surviving in the world, and the Villa of the Mysteries, adorned with enigmatic frescoes. The ongoing excavations continue to reveal secrets, offering a blend of history, archaeology, and science.

Cilento & Vallo di Diano National Park, established in 1991, spans over 180,000 hectares, boasting diverse landscapes from rugged mountains and rolling hills to pristine beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The park is home to ancient Roman ruins, such as the well-preserved archaeological site of Paestum. Nature lovers can explore the park's unique biodiversity, home to endangered species like the European otter, the Apennine wolf, and the Corsican hare, while hiking enthusiasts can traverse the numerous trails that wind through its varied terrain.

Matera is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, with evidence of human settlements dating back to 7000 BCE. The city is renowned for its unique Sassi districts, ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone rock, which were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Matera's history is a remarkable tale of transformation. Once dubbed the "shame of Italy" due to its extreme poverty and poor living conditions in the 1950s, the city has undergone a dramatic rebirth. It was named a European Capital of Culture in 2019, showcasing its cultural significance and successful urban regeneration. The Sassi were once considered symbols of poverty but have since been restored and transformed into boutique hotels, restaurants, and cultural spaces. Matera gained international fame as a filming location, including for movies like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die.

The Maddalena Archipelago, located in the Strait of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica, is a stunning collection of seven main islands—La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Razzoli—along with numerous smaller islets. Established as a national park in 1994, it spans over 20,000 hectares of land and sea, featuring pristine beaches and rich marine biodiversity, including rare species like sperm whales and Caretta turtles. Historically significant, the archipelago has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was known to the Romans as Cunicularia. It has served as a strategic naval base for figures such as Admiral Nelson and Giuseppe Garibaldi, who spent his last years on Caprera. The islands are renowned for their unique natural beauty, particularly the pink sands of Budelli's Spiaggia Rosa and the crystal-clear waters that attract boaters and divers alike.

Palermo is a historic city in Sicily with over 2,700 years of rich, multicultural heritage, founded originally by Phoenicians in the 8th century BCE. During its golden age under Arab rule in the 9th and 10th centuries, it was known as the "City of Delight", featuring over 300 mosques and becoming a prosperous centre of trade, art, and cultural tolerance. The city has been ruled by numerous civilisations including Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards, which is reflected in its diverse architectural styles, and it is now Sicily's cultural and economic capital with a population of around 676,000. Palermo boasts the largest historic center in Italy after Rome, and is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing its Arab-Norman architectural heritage.

Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea composed of the islands of Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi, Panarea and Basiluzzo. Stromboli and Vulcano are active volcanoes. The former has been in almost one continuous eruption for the past 2000 years and earned the nickname of "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean". The islands have been continuously inhabited since the 6th millennium BCE, with the first settlers exploiting obsidian stone. The seven islands are actually the peaks of underwater volcanic mountains, with Stromboli rising 924 meters above sea level but extending over 2000 meters below the sea surface. These islands are known for their unique volcanic activity, diverse landscapes, and rich agricultural production, particularly famous for producing Malvasia wine and capers. Each island has its own distinctive character, from the untouched Alicudi, where no cars exist and movement is only possible on foot, to Stromboli, which features an active volcano that provides spectacular lava displays, especially at night.

Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, standing at approximately 3,329 meters above sea level. It is one of the world's most active stratovolcanoes, with a continuous eruptive history spanning over 500,000 years and documented activity for at least 2,700 years. UNESCO designated Mount Etna a World Heritage Site in 2013, recognising its extraordinary geological significance, unique biodiversity, and importance as a natural laboratory for scientific research. The volcano is not only a geological marvel but also deeply embedded in Sicilian culture, with ancient Greek myths describing it as the workshop of Hephaestus, the god of fire, and home to the Cyclops

Taormina has a rich history dating back to 396 BCE, when it was founded by the Siculi after the destruction of nearby Naxos. Located on Mount Tauro with stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, the town has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century and has attracted numerous famous artists and writers like Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and Tennessee Williams. The town's famous Greek Theatre, built in the 2nd century, offers breathtaking views and continues to host cultural events, symbolising Taormina's long-standing artistic heritage. Throughout its 2,000-year history, Taormina has been conquered by various civilisations including Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, Normans, and Spanish, making it a microcosm of Sicilian history.