10 Best Beaches In Italy That Will Surprise You The Most 

BY  Sibashree Aug 18, 2025

The best pasta! Ruins that tell century-old stories! Winding cobble streets that exude the perfect dark academia vibe! The most luxurious villas and accommodations! And sprezzatura, or the quintessential Italian sophistication! All these things and more await you in Italy, and Italy never ceases to amaze you, as Mary Shelley said, “The Name of Italy has magic in its very syllables.”  So, it is no wonder that tourism in Italy is still going strong in 2026, and going by the predictions and data of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Italy is all set to host WTTC’s 25th Global Summit from 28th-30th September, 2025, and break all tourism records. WTTC is confident that: Tourism in Italy will contribute € 237.4 billion to the Italian economy in 2025. It will support 3.2 million jobs in 2025, and the number is 100000 more than in 2024.  From Daniela Santanchè, the Minister of Tourism in Italy, to Julia Simpson, the president and CEO of WTTC, everyone is proud and confident about the scenario. Julia Simpson has even mentioned, “Italy is back at the top of travellers’ wish lists and for good reason. From the timeless beauty of Rome to the elegance of its coastlines, and countryside, Italy offers a unique experience steeped in history, culture, and exquisite luxury.” However, overtourism still remains a concern, leading to visa rejections. So, in case you cannot visit Italy right now, you can always explore the countries near Italy. With Italy at the heart of southern Europe, you can prepare for a greater European adventure by visiting the neighboring countries. Let’s tour and travel to France, Switzerland, Croatia, and other beautiful countries.  What Are 5 Countries Near Italy? What Are The Enclaved Microstates? I will begin this section with a brief of the countries in Italy in a table format, and then discuss the borders and why you will love visiting these countries. The five countries near Italy are 1. France, 2. Switzerland, 3. Austria, 4. Slovenia and 5. Croatia. The two enclaves are San Marino and the Vatican City. Countries Near ItalyBorder TypeBorder LengthPopular Entry PointsWhy Visit?FranceLand515 kmVentimigliaMont Blanc Tunnel• French Cuisine• Art and Museums• French Sophistication and Fashion• French Wine• The Beauty of Southern France, including the French Riviera and ProvenceSwitzerlandLand740 kmChiasso Simplon Pass• Lakes• Scenic Train Rides• Alpine Beauty• Swiss Chocolates• The 13th Happiest Country in the World**AustriaLand430 kmBrenner Pass• The 17th Happiest Country in the World**• Baroque Cities• Classical Music• The Land of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart• Alpine Villages• Operas• Winter SportsSloveniaLand200 kmNear TriesteNova Gorica• Greenest Capital• Underground Wonders• Affordable DestinationCroatiaMaritime600 kmEastern Adriatic• Medieval Towns• Beautiful Coastlines• Dubrovnik’s Old TownSan MarinoEnclaved microstateN/AN/A• The Oldest Republic in the World• Built in 301 AD• Mount Titano• Guaita, Cesta, and Montale Towers• Unique Cultural Identity, even during the Italian Unification Movement in the 1800s• Tax-Free Shopping• A Country with No National DebtVatican CityEnclaved microstateN/AN/A• Home to the Pope• The Administrative and Spiritual Center of the Roman Catholic Church• The Vatican Museums• St. Peter's Basilica• The Sistine Chapel ** (Source: The World Happiness Report 2024) 1. France – The Most Visited Country In The World  1.4 billion!  Yes, that’s the number the World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism has quoted for the number of international travelers to France in 2024.  The Summer 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been two major factors behind the tourism boom, and France 24 has mentioned that France witnessed a year-on-year tourism growth of 12%.  However, France exudes a timeless appeal. The Eiffel Tower, luxurious tourism in Provence, the best wine and cheese! France is about all of these and even more!  Furthermore, the French-Italian border passes through the majestic Alps. It is one of the most breathtaking train rides or scenic drives in Europe.  Why Visit France? Imagine yourself sitting in the balcony of a posh château in Nice or a luxury villa in Provence and sipping the best rosé wine. And of course, the glamor of the French Riviera!  French never ceases to amaze you. Moreover, Paris, the French Capital itself, offers iconic landmarks and the perfect French romance.  Tour And Travel Blog Bucket List Moments In France Drive along the Côte d’Azur, stopping in Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Visit Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. Spend a weekend in Paris, exploring the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and quaint street cafés. UNESCO World Heritage Sites In France Canal du Midi, etc.  Palace of Versailles Our Lady of Chartres Cathedral Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens Mont Saint-Michel 2. Switzerland – The Land Of Eternal Ice And Romance Have you experienced the flamboyance of Italy? It’s time to experience the charm of Switzerland, amidst ice and pristine lakes, mountain villages, and beautiful mountains.  Furthermore, blessed with the majestic Alps, Switzerland is a year-round destination, and once you explore the Switzerland Tourism official website, you will notice that the tourism attractions are as vivid as they can get.  Why Visit Switzerland? Hop on a train from Milan and be in the snow-capped town of Zermatt or the luxury hub of Zurich in just a few hours. Furthermore, Switzerland has the Matterhorn, a pyramid-shaped silhouette, and the most photographed mountain in the world. Also, Switzerland allows you to participate in adventure sports in Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland.  However, beyond every major attraction, it is the sustainable approach in Swiss tourism that wins me over every time.  The country has: A total of 20 national parks The designation as the water castle of Europe, with 6% of the fresh water reserve of the European continent 11,000 trains plying daily on SBB’s network, carrying 1.1 million passengers every day, ensuring sustainable travel even to the remote locations in Switzerland Focus on recycling Switzerland is one of the European countries that has the “lowest concentrations of particulate matter.” Tour And Travel Blog Bucket List Moments In Switzerland Take the Glacier Express for a panoramic train ride through the Alps. Explore Lake Geneva and enjoy wine tasting in the Lavaux Vineyards. Ski or hike in the Jungfrau region. UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Switzerland Aletsch Glacier Convent of St. John Müstair Bellinzona Bern Jungfrau, etc.  3. Austria: The Land Of History, Culture, And Alpine Scenery  Austria is one of the most peaceful countries in the world. It has Vienna and Salzburg and many other world-class cities, and at the same time, it is the homeland of Strauss and Mozart.  It is also the birthplace of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. Even today, Austria remains one of the cultural hotspots of Europe, thanks to its distinct coffee culture and the Salzburg Festival.  Furthermore, the Baroque and Romanesque architectural marvels of Austria add a unique visual appeal. Once again being dominated by the Alps, Austria is a favorite destination for winter sports.  Why Visit Austria? Along with the tourism attractions and the cultural extravaganza, Austria impresses us with its quality of life. The signature Austrian cleanliness, a well-developed and reasonable public transportation system, a strong legal system, and a low crime rate make Austria a safe tourist destination, even for solo female travelers.  Tour And Travel Blog Bucket List Moments In Austria Visit Vienna’s grand Schönbrunn Palace and enjoy a classical concert. Explore the storybook town of Hallstatt. Ski in the Tyrol region. Hike through the Austrian Alps in summer. UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Austria Welterbe Semmeringbahn (Info-Zentrum) Vienna Wachau Salzburg Schönbrunn Palace Graz, etc.  4. Slovenia: A Country With A Green Capital Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is one of the greenest capitals in Europe. Further, it has iconic historical landmarks such as Ljubljana Castle.  Furthermore, Slovenia has Lake Bohinj, the largest natural lake in Slovenia and one of the most popular tourist destinations.  Also, Slovenia promotes an active tourism culture with activities such as cycling, water sports, and hiking.  Why Visit Slovenia? Austrian cleanliness Croatian coastal vibes Italian warmth  Slovenia offers you all of these. Furthermore, Slovenia celebrates sustainable travel practices. The country has a national Green Scheme, and it is using technology to a great extent to make the travel scenario more eco-friendly and inclusive.  For example, the National Intelligence System for Tourism follows a data-driven approach to manage tourist inflow, avoid overtourism, and minimize the impact on the environment.  Furthermore, to balance visitor demands and environmental benefits, the hospitality sector in Austria follows eco-friendly practices. So, it is no wonder that Slovenia, one of the closest countries near Italy, is called the Green Country.  Tour And Travel Blog Bucket List Moments In Slovenia  Row across the emerald waters of Lake Bled and visit its fairytale island church. Wander around Ljubljana, one of Europe’s greenest capitals. Explore the Postojna or Škocjan caves — massive underground wonders. UNESCO World Heritage Site In Slovenia Škocjan Caves Heritage of Mercury Plitvice Lakes National Park The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana – Human Centred Urban Design 5. Croatia – The Land Of Game of Thrones “The most amazing set where I've shot 'Game of Thrones' is definitely Croatia, in Dubrovnik. It's such a stunning country with lots of good watersports there as well. Just a beautiful, beautiful place.” - Natalie Dormer All GOT fans! Can we not agree with what Margaery Tyrell has to say?  Croatia is perfect not only for those seeking the Sun but also for those interested in history.  It’s where Roman ruins meet Game of Thrones locations and beach days flow easily into lively nights. Why Visit Croatia? Croatia may not make headlines for exceptional tourism booms this year. However, as a Balkan paradise, Croatia, one of the countries near Italy, stands strong with its smart adjustments in seasonal offerings.  Dubrovnik, especially, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a favorite cruising destination thanks to its medieval structures and city walls.  It is trying to avoid the curse of overtourism with a sustainable approach and by promoting active tourism with outdoor activities such as hiking, ATV adventures, and cycling.  Moreover, Dubrovnik does not allow more than 4000 tourists on cruise ships. So, you must visit Croatia to see the fusion of Adriatic charm and sustainable tourism practices.  Tour And Travel Bucket List Moments In Croatia Sail around the Dalmatian coast, stopping at islands like Hvar and Vis. Visit Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, with its cascading waterfalls and scenic trails. UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Croatia Diocletian's Palace Saint James’ Cathedral Euphrasian Basilica Trogir, etc.  6. San Marino - The Oldest Republic In The World  San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics. Nestled entirely within Italy, tourists often skip this microstate, but it’s absolutely worth the detour. Why Visit San Marino? Besides bragging rights ("I visited a whole other country inside Italy!"), San Marino has medieval towers, and views from the mountaintops are stunning, with a pretty, unexpectedly vibrant cultural scene. Tour And Travel Blog Bucket List Moments In San Marino Climb to the top of the Guaita Tower for panoramic views. Stroll the cobbled streets and explore the State Museum. Time your visit with one of the many medieval festivals. UNESCO World Heritage Sites In San Marino The San Marino Historic Centre and Mount Titano are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in San Marino. 7. Vatican City - The Home Of The Pope The Vatican is a country in its own right. While most people associate it with religion, the Vatican is also a cultural treasure chest. Why Visit Vatican City? Whether you’re spiritual or not, the Vatican holds some of the world’s most important art and architecture. And it’s an easy stop during any trip to Rome. Tour And Travel Blog Bucket List Moments In The Vatican City Marvel at the Sistine Chapel ceiling, painted by Michelangelo. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and climb to the dome. Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums for a deeper dive into history. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the countries near Italy.  1. Which Countries Have A Land Border With Italy?  Italy shares its borders with six other countries. These countries include: France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, the micro-state of San Marino, and Vatican City.These countries can be divided into the states with which Italy shares its international borders and the micro-states that are fully surrounded by Italy.  2. Is Vatican City Considered A Country Close To Italy?  Yes. The Vatican City is an independent sovereign state and the smallest country in the world in terms of population as well as land area.It is situated entirely within the boundaries of the City of Rome and holds the symbolic center of the overall Roman Catholic Church.  3. Why should France be on the bucket list for travelers visiting Italy?  France, particularly the southern part of it, including Provence and the French Riviera, is also great for an Italian holiday.The reason is that it is easily traveled together with Italy, since northern Italy and France merge into one without any trouble.  4. What Interesting Sights Can Be Seen In Switzerland Near Italy?  The country is adjacent to Italy to the north, boasting spectacular mountains, picturesque lakes, and charming towns to fascinate any visitor.Regions such as Ticino reflect the efficiency of the Swiss people together with the Italian way of life; thereby, it is the most preferable destination for adventure-seeking individuals.  5. Why Is Austria An Attractive Location Next To Italy?  It shares borders with the north of Italy and is renowned for its Alpine environment, classic music heritage, imperial buildings, and ski resorts.The cultural attractions of Vienna, Salzburg, or Innsbruck meet the needs of vacations involving an urban experience, while others, involving adventure, are drawn to the Alps. 6. Why Is Slovenia A Hidden Gem Located Near Italy?  Slovenia is one of the best-kept secrets in European travel. The country shares a border along the Northeast part of Italy, a land known for its fairy tale concepts, green lakes, caves, and a beautiful capital, Ljubljana, too! A small country with a price tag attached! 7. Can More Than One Country In The Region Around Italy Be Visited On The Same Trip?  Certainly! In fact, the strategic positioning on the continent enables one to visit more than one neighboring country in one travel program.The rail transport connections, the absence of immigration control at the boundaries in the Schengen Area, as well as the travel distances, create convenient travel for the countries in question. 8. What Is The Degree Of Friendliness Of The Countries Surrounding Italy That Will Accommodate The Budget-Conscious Traveler?  Yes. Slovenia and San Marino could be more reasonably priced options, while Switzerland and Austria could be expensive but highly rewarding options in terms of infrastructure, safety, and beauty.There could be a combination of luxury and economy based on travel options to different destinations. 9. Do Visas Vary From Country To Country Among Italy’s Neighbors?  To a great extent, visitors to the country can also visit the states that border the country since many states surrounding this country are part of the Schengen Zone.However, not everyone is free to visit states that belong to the Schengen Zone since this is based on nationality.

BY  Ankita Feb 21, 2024

Italian cuisine is a hit in the United States; if you don't believe me, take a walk in Bensonhurst and Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, where you'll get more than a taste of the food, but experience the culture as well. Short of trekking through Italy, there are limited ways in which you can experience the magic of the country. One of those ways is through food. You could trawl through all the Italian restaurants and bistros in your neighborhood, or you could just cook some traditional dishes at home. Read on to learn more about Italian cuisine and some of its key ingredients. Popular Italian Dishes There are foods we have embraced and enjoy so much that we forget they originated from Italy. Here are a few examples of some that have become staple dishes. Pizza Pizza is the most famous Italian food, and it has won the world over; I mean, who doesn't love pizza? You can top your pizza with almost anything, but did you know the earliest pizzas were topped with garlic, lard, and salt? Lasagne Lasagne was initially reserved for special occasions during the Middle Ages; nowadays, we enjoy it as a filling meal with a salad or bread. Tiramisu This iconic Italian dessert means "pick me up" or “cheer me up” in Italian, understandably so. The sweet, fluffy, and light dessert that melts in your mouth will definitely lift your spirits. Cooking The Italian Way At the core of Italian cooking is the emphasis on fresh ingredients; most people buy packaged pasta and use canned tomatoes and condiments. Authentic Italian cooking requires fresh ingredients. While some may see Italian dishes as unhealthy because of their high-carb content, the opposite is true. Let's look at the key ingredients used in Italian cooking Pasta There are more than 350 different shapes of pasta; it also comes in various forms, such as dried, fresh, or dumpling pasta. Each kind is suitable for a different dish, such as Penne for Penne Arrabbiata and lasagne sheets for lasagne. It's easy to see why pasta is a multi-million dollar business in Italy. It's versatile and works with meat, vegetables, and even dessert (vermicelli) dishes. It doesn't need a lot of flavoring either; you just need to add a sauce and some cheese, and you are good to go. Pasta is an excellent source of carbohydrates; it's filling and affordable. If you are watching calories, you may opt for the whole-grain variety. Read Also: Exploring The Allure Of Holiday Getaways In Italy Olive Oil Olive trees are grown across Italy, with some of the best coming from Liguria and Tuscany, so it's no surprise that most Italian dishes call for olive oil. The oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help lower your cholesterol levels. It also has excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. So, what's the difference between virgin olive oil and extra virgin oil? Simply put, extra virgin oil goes through less processing and thus retains more of its natural antioxidants and vitamins. Virgin olive oil also has a higher free acidity rating (0.8 - 2.0) than extra virgin olive oil ( less than 0.8). For authentic Italian olive oils, check out Dolceterra (visit website). Tomatoes Even though tomatoes are not native to Italy, they are firmly at the center of Italian cooking. There are different uses for different kinds of tomatoes; cherry tomatoes are great for salads or stuffing, like in a Caprese stuffed mozzarella, while plum tomatoes make the best sauces. Using tomatoes is not just one of the easiest ways to flavor food; think of spaghetti bolognese. Tomatoes are also known to ease inflammation and boost your immune system; they taste great, too. It's also an excellent preservative. Tuscan cooking is based on limiting food wastage; in historical times, leftover meats were cooked with tomato to preserve them and give them more flavor. And, what is a pizza without a tomato sauce base? We can see why tomatoes have become so central to Italian cuisine. Basil Basil is a flavorful African and Asian herb that comes in different varieties. It is very popular in pasta sauces; hence, we associate it with Italian cooking. Most tomato sauce recipes call for fresh basil, and it is also used in pesto. Basil oil can be used as part of a bread dip or to flavor vegetables. Basil vinegar is excellent in salads as well. Fresh basil is the most flavorful, so it's better to use it. Basil works well with other herbs, such as rosemary, oregano, and dill; this is also applicable in planting. You can plant basil alongside dill, cilantro, and chives. The great thing about basil is that it's easy to grow and doesn't need much space. Cheese Due to new research and eating trends, dairy products have been getting a bad reputation recently. Despite this, we still love our cheese, and what would a pizza be without mozzarella cheese? Cheese is an integral part of Italian cooking, with several famous cheeses made in the country. Mascarpone for tiramisu, fontina for a fondue and Parmigiano Reggiano for pasta. Cheese adds flavor to the pasta's starchiness and helps bind ingredients together in sauces. It also contributes to the texture of the sauce. You can also serve cheese on its own on a cheese board paired with great wine; while this is not authentically Italian, it does show how versatile cheese is. Most cheeses are an excellent source of calcium, and they also have protein. Wine Wine is fundamental to Italian cuisine and not just for drinking; think of Cioppino, which needs it as a key ingredient. Here are a few tips when pairing wine: Chianti is very compatible with tomato-based sauces. So, it goes well with pizza and creamy tomato pasta. A cabernet-sauvignon elevates the flavor of aged cheeses. Pair a provincial dish with a regional wine. Lastly Italian cuisine is not complicated, and we love it; you can make the most straightforward meal, which will be delicious. Most meals are made with fresh ingredients, which makes them healthier and tastier. You can integrate Italian meals into most eating plans without feeling guilty. Read Also: Common Pitfalls Of Destination Wedding In Italy And How To Avoid Them How Much Time To Spend In Italy Best Places To Visit In Italy

BY  Abdul Aziz Jul 4, 2023

Well, the question itself is a determinant of Italy being a splendid destination. But first-time travelers might think about how many days they should actually stay there. Are you one of them? Then, you have landed at the right place because this informative guide gives you detailed insight.  Italy is a captivating country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The 20 regions existing here have their own identity. No matter how long you stay in the country, you might feel that you are running out of time. Today, I will give you a comprehensive idea of how to explore the country if you have limited days on your hand.  Factors That Let You Decide Your Stay Duration In Italy Planning the duration of your visit is crucial to ensure you make the most of your time and experience all that Italy has to offer. Here are some helpful tips to consider when deciding how much time to spend in Italy. Consider Your Priorities: Start by identifying your main interests and priorities for the trip. Are you more drawn to historical landmarks, art and architecture, culinary experiences, or scenic beauty? Understanding your preferences will help determine the regions and cities in Italy that align with your interests. It is technically not possible to explore the 4,600 coastline, no matter how long your vacation is. Amidst gorgeous beaches, soul-calming villages, and tourist attractions, Italy is certainly a place worth discovering. So, ensure you know your priorities well. Get to know a map of abruzzi italy or whichever region it is you're travelling to and plan a route with key points of interest that you want to visit. It makes no sense to spend a thousand dollars just to figure out what you want from the vacation. Leave Room For Spontaneity: While it's essential to have a general plan, leave some flexibility in your itinerary. Serendipitous discoveries often make for the most memorable experiences. Allow yourself the freedom to wander off the beaten path, stumble upon hidden gems, and embrace the unexpected. Italy is a place where magic happens. The only thing you should be concerned about is the pickpockets. Don’t fall for any scam, and you are good to go. Leave some room to discover the place strategically.  Explore The Highlights: To get a comprehensive taste of Italy, it is recommended to spend at least two weeks in the country. This timeframe allows you to explore the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, as well as the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, Tuscany's picturesque countryside, and the charming villages of Cinque Terre. The island culture of the nation is no less mesmerizing. There are more than 450 beaches which certainly attract tourists. Don’t forget to head over to Sicily, which is a small country on its own. Tremiti Islands and the Aeolian give you an unparalleled experience.  Focus On Specific Regions: If you have limited time, consider narrowing your focus to specific regions. For example, spending a week in Tuscany allows you to delve into its art, history, and world-renowned wines. Alternatively, dedicating a few days to the Amalfi Coast lets you indulge in the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and visit the historic town of Pompeii. If you prioritize luxury over everything else, you might want to head over to Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda. It is a hotspot that makes everything look alluring on Instagram posts. A trip to Italy will be worth it when you explore some of its off-beat destinations.  Factor In Travel Time: When planning your itinerary, account for travel time between destinations. Italy's efficient train system makes it easy to get around, but some journeys can be lengthy. Consider the time it takes to travel between cities and ensure you have enough time to explore and relax at each location without feeling rushed. While personal transport can be a bit hefty on your part, local transportation has always got your back. Make sure you rely on them as you have various other places to spend extravagantly. Why waste your precious dollars on a commute that is possible with local options? Embrace The Slower Pace: Italy is a country that encourages leisurely exploration and savoring the moment. Allow yourself time to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets, sip coffee at a local café, or people-watch in a piazza. Don't try to cram too many activities into a day; instead, focus on quality experiences and immerse yourself in the Italian way of life. In case you have limited time on your hands, make a list of a few places. But make sure to explore them at their best. The only thing you should carry back on your way home is the memories, not the regrets. Explore each destination at a slow pace, and make the most of your time.  Consider Seasonal Factors: The time of year you visit Italy can greatly impact your experience. Summer months can be crowded with tourists, especially in popular destinations, while spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter is ideal for those interested in skiing in the Italian Alps or exploring the cultural delights of cities like Rome and Florence without the usual tourist crowds. In general, the country experiences an overall wonderful weather. Don’t forget to consider the season when making plans to explore the country. If you are willing to visit the beaches, summer is the best time to visit the country.  Seek Local Insights: To truly immerse yourself in the Italian culture, seek recommendations from locals. Not everything is found in journals, maps, and Google. There are certain things that are best when discovered physically. Italy is a wonderful destination with people from all walks of life.  Thus, engage in conversations with residents, ask for their favorite restaurants or hidden spots, and be open to their suggestions. Their insights will provide you with unique experiences that may not be found in guidebooks. The Bottom Line… Pack Your Bags To Italy In conclusion, the amount of time you spend in Italy depends on your interests, priorities, and the experiences you wish to have. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, careful planning and a willingness to embrace the Italian lifestyle will ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling trip. Read Also: Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India Where Can You Fully Immerse Yourself In Ancient Culture On Holiday? The Top 5 Reasons To Visit Edinburgh: From Castles To Culture, This City Has It All!