The treasures of Italy

World-class cities and enchanting small towns offer an unforgettable experience in a timelessly beautiful country

By Embassy of Italy

Italy is a dream destination for tourists from all over the world. History, culture, nature and hospitality are interwoven in a combination to be found in few other places. Diverse landscapes, artistic treasures and incomparable food make Italy a feast for the soul.

From the sun-soaked Mediterranean island of Sicily, to the snow-covered peaks of the Alps, Italy is a kaleidoscope of spectacular beauty that never fails to leave lasting memories with all who visit.

Many well-known places and destinations come to mind and are high on the wish list of most tourists who include millions of Americans. And rightly so. And while a journey to Italy would not be complete without visiting the crown jewels of Italian beauty, the growing accessibility of travel lets the visitors think outside the box to find unique experiences off the beaten track. 

Italy has a wealth of smaller destinations in out-of-the-way places, where an even more authentic Italian lifestyle awaits. Some destinations are hidden treasures literally a few steps off the classic touristic routes.

Most of Italy’s 54 UNESCO heritage sites are outside the main cities. The “borghi,” or smaller, less crowded towns, are a more affordable, relaxed and intimate experience, without the hustle and bustle of city life. Pristine landscapes of unmatched natural beauty are waiting to be discovered. A veritable bounty of cities and natural areas will leave even the most demanding tourist breathless. All this is before experiencing the distinctive seasonal and local cuisine that characterizes Italy’s regions and smaller destinations.

So why wait? Experience Italy as your next destination and expect the unexpected in a country steeped in thousands of years of history.

And if you make it there and decide to go off the beaten track, don’t worry about getting lost. In Italy, whatever path you follow will lead to an experience that will stay with you forever.

To discover more about traveling to Italy, visit the Official Italian Tourism and Embassy of Italy