Why Choose an Italy Vacation

Every year or maybe once every few years, you are faced with the opportunity to take a vacation. The excitement of planning a trip to another part of the world can take some a few years to plan and save for and others are lucky enough to take a different vacation every year. The choice of location is the first step when you are planning your next vacation. Italy is one of the locations that should be on the top of your list of places to visit when planning your next holiday.

Italy is a country made up of diverse regions that offer travelers exciting nightlife, world famous art work, delicious foods and gorgeous countryside. When you are deciding on your next vacation, Italy has something for everyone.

Honeymooners will find that Italy is the perfect choice for a romantic trip and a wonderful place to start off a marriage. Enjoy the beauty and romance of Venice or explore the historic city of Rome on your honeymoon vacation. Tuscany is a romantic and visually stunning location to spend a honeymoon. Explore the historic city of Florence and view the countryside that some of the world's most famous artists viewed.

Vacation packages to Italy take the work out of your vacation planning. Packages include tours of the regions, accommodations and your flight in many cases. You can relax and begin to learn about the areas that you will travel to when your travel plans are all made for you.

A family vacation to Italy is a wonderful way to introduce a new culture to your children and give them the opportunity to see the gorgeous scenery of Italy. Family vacation packages can provide you with a great chance to take the whole family on a reasonably priced trip to Italy.

To determine if an Italy vacation is the right choice for you and your family, make a list of the factors that make an ideal vacation for you. Italy will give you great food, world famous art and spectacular scenery. Weigh all of your options and take a look at the prices that you can get with Italy vacation packages for your family.

Do some research on the regions of Italy to choose where you would prefer to spend your vacation. You can choose to take a tour of the country and enjoy a day or two in each region, or you can devote all of your vacation time to one region and explore it thoroughly. Regardless of what you chose, you can't go wrong when you are touring Italy.

Some of these regions and great places to visit include Milan, Rome, Calabria, Venezia, Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Compagnia, and much more lovely regions and areas within this country. So don't hesitate when choosing your vacation this year, because Italy is the place to visit. The regions, the beautiful views, and wonderful food simply at to the charm of Italy.

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Rome

Florence

Venice

Sorrento

Siena

Milan

Rome

Rome is known as the ‘eternal city’ and is the capital of the Lazio region as well as the country of Italy.
According to mythology Rome was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus who were raised by wolves.

Some of the most spectacular remains of the Roman Empire, the Renaissance and Medieval times can be found in Rome. Rome really blossomed during the 15th century in a renaissance that saw the popes spend vast amounts of money on fine buildings such as the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica.

It is also the founding city of the Catholic religion even though the Vatican City is considered an independent state within Italy. Amazingly the Vatican alone contains more art works and cultural treasures than can be found in most cities around the world.

The Vatican centres around the Holy See, or papal state, and the current incumbent is Pope Benedict XVI, formerly known as Josef Cardinal Ratzinger. The official language within the Vatican is Latin though of course Italian and English are both widely spoken there too.

The entirety of Rome’s Old city has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within Rome there are some incredible old buildings, as well as the neighbourhoods of the Jewish Ghettos, which are worth seeing. The highlight of Old Rome is the Pantheon which is in great shape for a building which dates back to 125 AD.

Within the Pantheon there are fine coffers and an oculus to see for those who are interested in the architecture of this unique building. The oculus is actually a hole in the ceiling so if it is raining you will not necessarily get sheltered in the Pantheon.

Rome is located between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Apennine Mountains and was built on the banks of the River Tiber. Another geographical characteristic of Rome is that it is known as the ‘city of seven hills.’
Depending on what time of year you go to Rome it can be very hot. If you want to avoid large crowds of tourists it is worth going to Rome in August as many Romans leave the city for their holidays.

Rome does have its own beach resort called the Lido di Ostia. Nearby you can see the Ostia Antica which was the old harbour of the Roman Empire whose remains are still visible today.

Rome’s airport is named after one the most famous Italians who ever lived, the painter, architect and sculptor Leonardo Da Vinci. There are many vehicles available for hire at the airport through Rhino car hire.

Having a car will save you a small fortune on taxis, especially from those citizens of Rome who try to make you think that their car is a taxi when it is not. A rental car is also a good idea as certain buses, like the number 64 which goes to the Vatican is notorious for being filled with pick pockets and thieves.

The main road which goes around the centre of Rome is known as the GRA. Don’t fall into the trap of paying ‘touts’ who offer to lead you to parking spaces in Rome.

One of the best areas to go looking for restaurants in Rome is the Aventino Testaccio. This part of Rome is also where the Baths of Caracalla can be found. Other baths in Rome (the Romans loved a good bathe) are the Baths of Diocletian.

Florence

Spending the holiday with your family or love one in Florence is something worth the records. The Intercity Festival is the most sought after event of tourist all over the world. With a very puzzling name, the Intercity Festival links Florence to a great world capital, suggesting a rich program which shows the best of art and culture of the chosen country. Aside from many wonderful events, Florence has a captivating culture, a city rich in heritage and the place for the finest artworks.

The Festival of Creativity is an event held every year in October at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence. If you happen to book a holiday during this month, this great festival is something that will hold its ground in your subconcious. This event is entirely dedicated to the world of communication, art and creativity. Each year the Festival of Creativity brings into the city thousands of visitors. Most of the tourists are students or just curious people who roam between the wonderful pavilions of creativity.

The art and culture of Florence have resulted to great public interests. The expertise of Italy on its art yielded the consistent production of monumental and spectacular works. Florence attracts a high proportion of international travelers to Italy. The city is an active centre of art and culture, and organizes periodical exhibitions and art festivals. You want to experience a spectacular holiday filled with beauty and art, booking a holiday to Florence is worth trying.

The architectural design of the San Miniato al Monte is an amazing art. A breath taking site which hold up well for years for tourists to witness the legendary building. Nature lovers will also love the museum and palace called Giardino di Boboli that exhibits the most beautiful gardens on country. Another place to check is the Battistero which is an amazing dome or historical events and culture.

Florence caters the most unforgettable weddings of all time. If you are planning a holiday wedding, be sure to put Vincigliata on your tentative list of venues. Vincigliata is a place where many people go to say their vows, then honeymoon in the area and enjoy the sights.

Florence is not only rich in arts and culture by also displays a diverse set of cuisines. The Affettati Misti or Cold Sliced Meats is the most traditional antipasti served in the most famous Italian restaurants in Florence. You can also never miss out the indulging Lasagne al Forno - Layers of fresh pasta, meat sauce, and béchamel with cheese with a sprinkling of Parmigiano on top, a dish you would surely pig out with.

Many tourists visit Florence because of its unique attractions and diverse features. You will surely enjoy a week or two in Florence, or maybe stay a little longer because the night life will surely thrill every single nerve you have. A common mistake of tourists is they don't have an idea where to start looking for a good holiday at a relatively cheap cost. It is true that the best holiday offers are very expensive but on the contrary, one can actually take part of luxurious holidays at an affordable price. If you know where to look at the right time, some of the best holidays are also the cheapest!

Venice

A1VeniceHotels.com helps you choose and book a hotel room in Venice online. We offer you best hotel deals in Venice, Italy. Use A1 Venice Hotels to find Venice hotels of your choice. We have categorized hotels in Venice in four categories viz., Five star hotels in Venice, Four star hotels in Venice, Three star hotels in VenicOe and Other hotels in Venice.

A Trip to Venice to get enthralled by its vivacity…

Located in the northern part of the county, an Italian city is famed around the world for its magnificence. Nevertheless, official name of the city is ‘Venice’ but it is more famous by its secondary names such as ‘queen of Adriatic’, ‘City of Water’, City of Bridges’ and ‘City of Light’. One among the most gorgeous cities in the world, Venice is supposed to be the adored destination of lovebirds from all across the globe.

Giving a depiction of fairyland, the city is a treasure trove of cultures and traditions, which are centuries old. Set on almost 117 tiny isles and comprising hundreds of canal, the city covers an area of 458 kilometers. Miles away from the impression of a metropolitan city struck with traffic jam and chaotic setting, Venice trails are as clear as a remote village in oriental Asia. This elegant getaway is all time favorite for beauty-loving expeditors or camera-clad beings of the world.

Accommodation in Venice

Known for its inexhaustible festivity, Venice calls tourists through out the year. Nevertheless, the city is very small and population is less, yet, it is abundant with restaurants and hotels. Venice hotels are full of every facility and available on a good range. Some of the most famous hotels in Venice are respectively Hotel Giorgione , Ca' Gottardi, Historic palazzo, Hotel Al Vagon, Hotel Ambra, Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo, Hotel Mignon, Hotel Gabrielli, Hotel Torino, Venice Hotels, Hotel San Giorgio etc.

You will be able to find almost every sort of hotel in Venice. Some Venice hotels are budget hotels, while some are specially designed with a corporate look. If are looking forward for something lavish at the dazzling destination, opt for multi-star hotels in Venice, which are ready to offer you the most impeccable services. Comfortable beds, aromatic ambiance, flawless service, good food, plush spas and top quality gym are the normal features of these hotels.

Start your morning with the tawny shade spread outside your window and spend the entire day playing with canal mazes in the city. You can wander around also, as car is a strict ‘no-no’ here. Yes, car is banned in Venice. But if, you do not want to get lost in the watery web of the city, you can opt for busses, which run all across the city.

Best season to go-

Nonetheless, Venice is an year round destination but if you want to take the maximum fun of party mood of the city, land here in spring. It will be best if you will come here during Easter. This is supposed to be the perfect season to enjoy the vivacity of the city but this time you can face a problem of accommodation in Venice hotels.

Sorrento

If you want to enjoy some truly stunning walking in Italy, head to the Sorrento Peninsula. Learn more about five of the best regional highlights.

Italy is home to some truly spectacular walking country, and there are few places to match the Sorrento Peninsula. Located on the South West coast of Italy, it features everything from stunning scenery to historical sights, with plenty of exciting cities and resorts to visit as well. For varied and unforgettable walking in Italy, the Sorrento Peninsula takes some beating.

Here are five of the sights that you shouldn't miss out on if you are walking in this part of the country...

Pompeii

One of the most famous sights of the ancient world, the Roman ruins of Pompeii attract millions of visitors every year. In AD 79, a colossal volcanic eruption from nearby Mount Vesuvius buried the city in dust, ash and rock. The city remained buried until the 18th century, when archaeologists uncovered Pompeii and found that it had been remarkably preserved.

Today, the ruins of Pompeii provide an astonishing insight into the lives of the ancient Romans, with everything from ancient temples to erotic artworks and crude graffiti remaining intact and open to visitors. Most eerily, plaster casts have been made of the bodies of the Pompeians, showing them in their very last moments before the volcanic eruption claimed their lives.

Mount Vesuvius

Perhaps the most famous volcano in the world, Mount Vesuvius is one of the most stunning sights to see whilst walking in Italy. It is still active and prone to violent eruptions, but careful monitoring of the volcano means that there is plenty of warning before any danger. The area around the volcano is a national park, allowing you to enjoy some splendid day walking in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius...or even venture up to the caldera of the volcano itself if you are feeling especially daring!

Paestum

If you are interested in ancient history, you won't want to miss out on a visit to Paestum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the best preserved classical architecture in Italy, including three ancient temples, a Roman forum, and an amphitheatre, with some of the buildings dating as far back as 550 BC.

Lattari Mountains

Stretching from the Gulf of Naples to the Gulf of Salerno, the Lattari Mountains provide some great options for walking in Italy. There are a huge selection of trekking routes for all abilities running through the mountains, and the stunning coastal and mountain panoramas that are to be found all along the Lattaris give you plenty to look at along the way!

Naples

If you are looking for a city to explore on foot whilst you are walking in Italy, Naples is an excellent place to visit. This city is an exciting hub of culture and cuisine that is a delight to stroll around, and the historic centre of the city and the famous Naples Bay both provide spectacular sights for you to enjoy. From ancient buildings and museums to the finest pizza in Italy, Naples is truly a must see if you are in the south of the country.

Siena

Italy has many well-known travel destinations such as Rome. Less publicized destinations such as Siena are even better.

Sienna

Located roughly an hour outside of Florence, Siena is one of my favorite places in Italy. When you think gothic architecture and medieval town, you think of Siena. Built as a fortified city behind large, thick walls on a small mountain, Siena oozes history. Cars are barred from much of the city, so you can meander down ancient brick alleyways below towering wall-to-wall residences.

In Siena, you’ll find a relaxed way of life, two music schools and just a general feel of what Italy must have been like in the past. Head to the Piazza del Campo in the heart of the city and grab a seat in a café. As you gaze across the city, you can view the Duomo Cathedral that towers over the city. Unlike other cities, the cathedral does not contrast with the buildings around it. All of Siena retains the gothic medieval architectural style and you’ll be hard pressed to find a better gothic example in Europe.

The best way to experience Siena is to simply stay there. Like wine, Siena improves the longer you stay. Daily explorations lead to surprising little shops, incredibly friendly people and a general feeling of peace.

Il Palio

If you prefer a little action on your trip, Siena has an event that rivals any in Europe. The Il Palio bareback horse race around the Piazza del Campo is a sight to be seen. The fun starts well before the race when various neighborhoods challenge each other. The challenge comes in the form of bands walking through “enemy” neighborhoods in the middle of the night and making an unholy racket. Eventually, each neighborhood produces a horse and rider for the day of the race. Bareback, the riders race for neighborhood pride among an absolutely screaming crowd of people. The running of the bulls has nothing on this event.

If you visit Florence while in Italy, take the time to spend a couple days in Siena. In fact, blow past Florence and go immediately to Siena.

Milan

Not only is Milan the second largest city in Italy but this industrial conurbation is financially the most powerful.
Milan is also an incredibly lively and vibrant city which has eight universities and the largest student population in Italy.

Among the many learning institutions to be found in Milan is the Politecnico di Milano which is one of the best in Europe for design and engineering.

At Italian saying compares the two main cities of Italy with Milan coming our favourably: "Rome is a like a voluptuous woman whose gifts are very apparent, while Milan is the shy, demure girl whose treasures are plentiful, but discovered in time."

Although you might think that Rome trumps Milan in terms of historical buildings it is interesting to note that Milan is home to older churches than Rome.

Among these, you should definitely see the 14th century Gothic Duomo and the St Mary of the Graces Church. The Duomo is a magnificent structure which has wonderful views out over Milan while the St Mary of the Graces Church contains Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper painting. In the square known as Piazza Della Scala you will also see a statue of this famous painter, sculptor and designer. Leonardo Da Vinci also designed another one of the attractive sights to be seen in Milan, a bronze horse which can be found close to the racetrack.

Flying into Milan you will either arrive at Malpensa airport or Linate airport. If you have booked car hire with Rhino it is possible to collect your vehicle from both of these airports.

However, if you have flown in on a budget airline you can arrive at Orio al Serio airport and Parma airport in a relatively short time. You may wish to park outside of Milan and use public transport forms such as the bus, the train, the metro and the subway to get around the city centre as it can get very congested.

To drive from Milan to Turin you take the A4 westbound, the A7 goes to Genoa and the A1 goes to Bologna, Florence, Naples and Italy’s capital city, Rome. The A1 road is known as the highway of the sun (Autostrada del Sole).

Milan has two football teams who oddly enough share the same stadium, the San Siro. Inter Milan and AC Milan are both teams with a great footballing tradition, though AC Milan has been the more successful of the two.

Known as the ‘Rossoneri’, AC Milan have some incredible players in their current team such as Kaka and Ronaldinho and going to watch one of their games would be very worthwhile. Alternatively, if you prefer to watch Inter Milan, they are coached by Jose Mourinho at the moment, who became something of a cult figure during his time at Chelsea.

Because Milan is so famous for its fashion it is a great place to go shopping with flagship stores for designer labels such as Armani and Dolce e Gabbana located there.

If you want something a bit cheaper but just as trendy you should go to the flea market called Fiera di Senigallia.
Those who come to Milan wanting to try the best of Italian cooking will not be disappointed as there are plenty of restaurants, inns and trattorias to try. If you want classic Milan cuisine you should go to Il Brellin in Vicolo dei Lavandai.

Giacomo Benetti is a travel writer for Rhino car hire. Giacomo is based in Italy but covers stories about the entire Mediterranean area. Milan is his favourite city in the entire world.