What Are The Countries Near Italy? Know The Italian Neighbors And Why They Need To Be On Your Bucket List

BY  Barsha Aug 11, 2023

When it comes to planning a holiday getaway, few destinations rival the charm and allure of Italy. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Italy has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide. This article delves into why spending your holidays in Italy is an unforgettable experience, particularly when you rely on specialized agencies such as Italia Sweet Italia, that will take you to the most beautiful places and sample all the culinary delights. Italy has long captured the hearts of globetrotters, offering a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes. Among its many charming regions, Abruzzo and Puglia emerge as hidden gems, each with its distinct allure. Abruzzo: Where Nature and History Converge Exploring Abruzzo's Majestic Mountains Nestled in the Apennine Mountains, Abruzzo boasts breathtaking natural beauty. From the Gran Sasso peaks to the rugged beauty of the Majella National Park, this region offers a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Tracing History through Medieval Villages Abruzzo's history comes to life in its medieval villages. Villages like Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Scanno transport visitors back in time with their cobblestone streets and ancient architecture. Exploring these villages offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. Savoring Abruzzo's Gastronomic Treasures No visit to Abruzzo is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Delight your taste buds with dishes like "arrosticini" - succulent skewers of lamb - and "maccheroni alla chitarra," a pasta specialty unique to the region. Puglia: A Coastal Gem Basking in Puglia's Stunning Beaches Puglia, on the other hand, lures travelers with its stunning coastline. Crystal-clear waters and golden sands await at beaches like Baia dei Turchi and Porto Selvaggio. Relaxing by the sea and soaking in the Mediterranean sun is a must-do here. Immersing in the Trulli Mystique Puglia's iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello are a sight to behold. These cone-shaped dwellings are not only charming but also carry historical significance. Exploring the narrow streets and staying in a Trullo provides a unique and immersive experience. Indulging in Puglia's Authentic Cuisine Puglia's cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. From the famous "orecchiette" pasta to the exquisite olive oil, the flavors of Puglia are deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. Comparing Abruzzo and Puglia As you consider these two regions for your Italian getaway, let's compare their distinct features: Landscape Diversity: Mountains vs. Coastline Abruzzo captivates with its mountainous terrain, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers. In contrast, Puglia's allure lies in its expansive coastline, inviting travelers to relax by the sea. Architectural Marvels: Medieval Villages vs. Trulli Houses Abruzzo's medieval villages showcase architectural heritage, while Puglia's Trulli houses offer a unique glimpse into the past, making both regions historically intriguing. Culinary Delights: Gastronomic Contrasts Abruzzo's hearty dishes reflect its mountainous landscape, while Puglia's cuisine highlights its coastal bounty. Both promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Choosing Your Ideal Italian Getaway When deciding between Abruzzo and Puglia, consider your interests. Are you drawn to history, mountain vistas, and medieval charm? Abruzzo might be your match. If sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and unique architecture captivate you, Puglia could be your dream destination. Conclusion Abruzzo and Puglia await your exploration in the heart of Italy's enchanting landscapes. Whether you seek the rugged beauty of mountains or the soothing embrace of the Mediterranean coastline, these regions promise a holiday of captivating experiences, rich history, and unforgettable flavors. 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  Sibashree May 30, 2024

Are you thinking about taking a trip to Italy? It’s a beautiful country with so much to offer!   If you’re wondering when the best time to visit is, I’ve got some insights for you.   Typically, a good time to visit Italy is when the high season runs from May to September. This is when the weather is at its finest, and everything is in full swing.  That said, be prepared for larger crowds.  This is when most tourists flock to the stunning sights of Italy.   If you’re looking to explore the famous Venetian canals, I’ll share some valuable tips and recommendations to help you plan an unforgettable experience.   Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Italy is sure to capture your heart!   Let me share with you the best and worst times to visit Italy and how you should plan your trip. I am here to share with you some of the best places in Italy and how to experience them if you know the best time to visit. How To Plan For A Trip To Italy: Get To Know What Is A Good Time To Visit Italy!   Do you know what the weather is like in Italy in October? If you are planning to visit, let me share with you the kind of weather you might get in October! Are you picturing beautiful Italian beaches, vineyards, or canals? But to experience these beauties, you need to know all about the crowd size, weather, and cost related to the trip. If you want to avoid the crows, you can visit between March and April and October to November. Apart from the time, it is also important to consider the type of vacation you are planning. For your next Italian getaway, read the blog in detail to learn more about the factors to consider when planning a trip. What Is A Good Time To Visit Italy?  If you want to avoid crowds in Italy, I just have one advice for you.  You should not go during these three months:   June  July  August  During the summer holidays, visitors like you and me can enjoy Italy to the fullest. Considering the low traffic, you will find good weather and fewer crowds during this time. Furthermore, you can enjoy some of the best places that will offer you an amazing dose of culture. Let me tell you that what we know as the high season of Italy is from May to September. And what's more, the time keeps extending every year. Another time you need to avoid is winter because there are huge crowds. Italy’s winter temperature is somewhere around the 40s and 50s in the south.   This gives you a perfect, warm, Mediterranean, and sunny vibe. You might also get snow in the country’s north during this time.  So, if you are planning to visit during winter, it might not be conducive to experiencing some of Italy's best times. However, if you really want to go during this time, you can go to an Alpine ski town such as Cortina D’Ampezzo, where there are several piazzas and hotels. What Is A Good Time To Visit Italy For Pleasant Weather?  If you want to visit Italy to enjoy good weather, let me share some of the important aspects to consider. If you love the sun, you should visit during the months of July and August, as the temperature soars then. It is a completely rain-free summer, so you can enjoy it to your heart’s content. However, several places in Italy can make tourists very uncomfortable. In southern cities such as Naples and Rome, temperatures can go as high as 100 degrees.  I like the sun, but I am also heat-sensitive, so if you are also heat-sensitive, you should avoid the peak summertime weather in these places. You can also visit the Naples Italy beaches during early fall and late spring to experience balmy beaches and sunny skies but no heat. This is the ideal time; the months of September and May are perfect for you to visit the country's southern area. Hence, going on walking tours across the historic cities and towns, swimming and sunbathing in the coastal areas; however, in the city, the temperature goes up to 70s and 80s. Another place that is perfect for visiting even during summer is northern Italy. This place is quite elevated, and Lake Como is perfect to visit during summer, as the temperature is about 60s and 70s during June, July, and August. What Is A Good Time To Visit Italy To Cruise The Mediterranean?  If you're thinking about cruising the Mediterranean, the sweet spot really is from mid-May to early October.   Just a heads up, though. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle, try to steer clear of July and August.   Those months usually bring in a wave of tourists to Italy. And guess what? All of them are eager to soak up the sights and sun. Summer can get pretty steamy, with temperatures soaring to around 40ºC.   While it's perfect for lounging by the pool or hitting the beach, wandering through charming coastal towns can feel a bit overwhelming in that heat.   If you can, plan your trip for the shoulder months—  May  September  October  You'll enjoy more comfortable weather and a more laid-back experience, making it much easier to appreciate the beauty around you.  Where Must You Visit When On A Vacation In Italy?  When you are planning an itinerary for your vacation in Itaky, make sure you include the places as well:    Visit the Wine Country of Italy Italy has some beautiful wine regions, such as Tuscany, so when you visit these places, you will feel like a different world. The ideal times you want to see the wine countries are early fall and early spring. You can visit to see the grape harvest in September and October. If you are a wine lover, this is the most exciting time to visit Italy. Just like in Italy, I have also written a blog on how many days in Venice you need to spend! Please give that a read! Visit the Italian Coast of Italy The Italian Coast is a perfect place for you if you are a beach lover! Summer, autumn, and spring are the best times if you are planning to visit Italy. When you visit the coastal towns on the Italian coast, including Manarola, Positano, Sorrento, Portofino, Ravello, and more, you have some of the best times of your life. Try to avoid summer and spring while visiting the Italian Coast because everyone will have the same idea of taking a beach chair and umbrella and sitting at the beach. Yes, you will see that the rental costs are exorbitant. In addition, the crowds increase significantly during the day, along with the noise. If you want to escape the noise, you can go to the smaller villages, which are situated much closer to the beach, such as Terlizzi in Puglia. So, how is the weather in Italy in October? In these smaller villages, you get warm water throughout late October, plus the surroundings are quite peaceful! Visit the Dolomites of Italy One of the stunning places in Italy, the Dolomites in northeastern Italy, is beautiful and can be visited all year round. If you are interested in hiking, going on a walk across the trails of mountain views, or skiing, this is the perfect place for you. You can hit the ski slopes in summer, winter, or even spring, enjoying the activity along with the beautiful mountain views. What Are The Best Foods To Try In Italy?  The food culture in Italy is an enigma in the Western world! When visiting Italy, people experience gastronomical pilgrimages, so I would encourage you to plan the trip while keeping in mind the food culture.   Several cities in Italy offer some of the best food, culture, experiences, and traditions. For example, Bologna is like a culinary metropolis where you can try balsamic vinegar, prosciutto di Parma, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Did you know that Bologna has the first food theme park in the world, Eataly FICO?   There is a place called Pasta Fresca Naldi where you can get hand-made pasta dishes. There are also takeout options. You must try several traditional dishes, such as tortellini in brodo and lasagna verdi.   Another place, Palermo, is another beautiful place where you can get delicious food and thus experience the culture of Italy in true style. Even the architectural design of this place is heartwarming. When it comes to food, starting from parmigiana di melanzane to pasta con le sarde!   Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )  1. What’s The Best Time To Go To Italy?  The best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder seasons of April to May (spring) and September to October (early autumn). This time offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months.  2. Is March A Good Time To Visit Italy?  Yes, March can be an excellent time to visit Italy, especially for those seeking fewer crowds and better prices, as it's a "shoulder season" month before the peak summer season.  3. Which Is The Nicest Part Of Italy To Visit?  The best places to visit in Italy include the classic trio of Rome, Florence, and Venice.  Wondering What Is A Good Time To Visit Italy? Now You Have It!   In short, let me share with you that the weather in Italy in shoulder months is cooler than in the summer months, when the temperature is relatively mild.   However, it depends on the region and how the temperature varies based on the surroundings.   Yes, it can be expensive and busy from May to October. However, at times, there are places in Italy that October is perfect for visiting. The best places are Sicily and Campania when considering October as a month to visit Italy.   Comment on what you think is the right time to visit Italy and why. 

BY  Sibashree May 30, 2024

Are you dreaming about spending a beautiful European holiday like me? Is Italy on your bucket list? Have you already planned your trip to Italy, or are you confused by so many options? Let me share the best places to go in Italy with you! Apart from various popular places and streets, I have also shared several places of food that you must try. Italy's culture and traditions are integrated deep inside its roads, buildings, and food culture. You can also learn about the weather in Italy in October to decide when to plan your trip! Let me share with you the eight best places to go in Italy because it will be the trip of a lifetime. Top 10 Best Places To Go In Italy!  Apart from the beautiful and historic places in Italy, there is so much more to know about them. You will learn about their history and how people have expressed themselves. I will share with you some of the best places in Italy, not just from a traveler's perspective. I want to share with you how to be someone who enjoys a place through its places, people, and food. 1. St. Peter's Basilica In Vatican City  Best Time To Visit: November-March, on Tuesdays to Fridays  Nearest Airport: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO), Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA)  Duration: 2-3 hours  Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:10 PM  St. Peter’s Basilica is often considered one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world. It serves as the spiritual heart of the Vatican and is the result of the creative genius of some of Italy's greatest Renaissance architects, including Bramante  Raphael  Michelangelo  The beauty and artistry of this place truly reflect the rich history and faith that it embodies.  2. Gallerie Degli Uffizi In Florence  Best Time To Visit: November- February  Nearest Airport: Florence Airport (FLR)  Duration: 3-4 hours  Timings: 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM  The Uffizi Gallery is truly a gem and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates art. Nestled in the heart of Florence, this gallery showcases some of the most incredible Italian Renaissance masterpieces, featuring the works of renowned artists like Botticelli  Leonardo da Vinci  Michelangelo  What's even more fascinating is that the gallery is housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the 16th century, designed by the talented Giorgio Vasari. The architecture itself is stunning, and walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time.  3. Naples, Campania Best Time To Visit: April to June (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)  Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport (NAP)  Duration: 7 days The home of Neapolitan pizza, coastal Naples has an electric atmosphere around its urban streets. I can easily highlight Naples as one of the best places to go in Italy. Did you know that during the 18th century, they used to eat plates of pasta with bare hands in the streets? Known as mangiamaccheroni, the Neapolitans were quite enchanted with pasta's deliciousness. However, recently, it has become more popular for its pizza. The place is like a network of pizza places, the air filled with the aroma of dough, wood-fired ovens, and cheese. It would be best to stop at Gino Sorbillo, where you can get the Neapolitan pizza topped with buffalo mozzarella, which smells earthly. The restaurant is by the seaside and gives you the perfect view of Naples. The place is popular for coffee, so remember an espresso and an Americano! 4. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna Best Time To Visit: April-June, September-October  Nearest Airport: Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport  Duration: 5 days  You might overlook Bologna with the likes of Naples and Rome, but if you are a true foodie, you will keep it in your itinerary. The place is the home of Prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar, and Parmigiano Reggiano, which you will enjoy when you visit. The Eataly FICO, the first food theme park in the world, is a place for you to enjoy if you are a foodie by heart! The colonies across the place are medieval, surrounded by street food stalls and several small restaurants catering to students, tourists, and locals alike. The place is popular for hand-made pasta, so when you sit down at a trattoria, you must order Fat Bologna or Bologna Grossa. There are several regional dishes that you must try, such as tortellini in brodo or lasagna Verdi, along with the famous breadbasket of Italy. 5. Genoa, Liguria Best Time To Visit: Summer  Nearest Airport: Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA)  Do you remember Genoa, a seaport in northwestern Italy, from Merchant of Venice? Well, the capital of Liguria is also known as the Italian Riviera. You might miss it if you are only focused on Rome or Venice, but I would say you should not miss this place. It is one of the best places to go in Italy, especially because it is one of the best food cities in Italy. But did you know that it was the Genoese who created Pesto, the popular green sauce now found almost in every Western supermarket? But even then, a local bowl of pesto pasta with basic leaves will leave you more flavorful than ever. Another delicious dish you cannot miss is pesto lasagna, available at Cambi Caffe. If you are a dessert fan like me, you must try the rich Genoise sponge-based Sacripantina! The bakery Antico Forno Patrone is quite popular for dessert, a sponge with caramelized onions and an olive-laced square of focaccia. You will find several artisan confectionary boutiques, butcher shops, and fishmongers! 6. Rome, Lazio Best Time To Visit: March to May  Nearest Airport: Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Ciampino Airport (CIA)  You visit Rome and you do not go to the Pantheon—is that even a question? Apart from the Pantheon, the Colosseum is another must-visit place. So, if you are wondering about things to do in Rome, keep reading! Local pasta dishes are popular in Rome, and Lazio is established with some of the classics. Dishes such as cacio e pepe, carbonara, gricia, and amatriciana attract tourists to this place. When you visit a romantic city, you must experience the nightlife. The trattorias of Trastevere offer some of the famed pasta dishes, so you must walk across the city's cobbled lanes and experience the vibe. To taste the deliciousness of the rich carbonara dish, you can check out Ta Deo’s rigatoni alla gricia. Rome is known for its history, so you cannot miss the Jewish ghetto, rich in atmosphere and culture. If you love old buildings and feel a pull toward the city's history, you can walk along the streets and experience elegance and decay. The specialties that you must try are deep-fried artichokes and carcinoma alla guide. Another dish born from history is Trippa alla Romana, which the poorest inhabitants of Rome used to eat. You can try this to experience the real food culture! 7. Florence, Tuscany Best Time To Visit: May And September  Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci Airport  Duration: 7 days  Italian food culture is most pronounced in Tuscany, where most dishes offer the earthly flavor of peasant cooking (cucina povera)! There are various food items such as acquacotta, a soup of beans and cabbage, ribollita vegetable stew, baked beans with herbs, and the deliciousness of fagioli all’uccelletto. If you do not like beans, we have other dishes for you, which you can get in restaurants that offer international cuisine. Many of these restaurants are Michelin-starred, such as the Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, which offers several-course meals with wine. Let me share one of the original food items of the place: the Florentine Steak. Cooked with herbs and olive oil, the T-bone is succulent beef from the Chianina cow. To taste the best version of this dish, you must stop in Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria. 8. Cagliari, Sardinia Best Time To Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October)  Nearest Airport: Cagliari Elmas Airport  Duration: 3 days  If you are a wine lover, you do not even have to make a choice when it comes to the most delicious white wine variety on the island, Vermentino. You will taste the salinity and acidity of this wine, and it is also the only DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination of Origin). You will also get to try some of the highest-quality Sardinian cuisine in the II Castello old quarter of Cagliari. Furthermore, you should also try semolina fregula, pasta that is an African take on the saffron-laced seafood soups of Sardinia. I suggest you try sausage and fennel ragu or malloreddus! Both these items are compulsory on most menus, including Sardinian gnocchi. If you are a foodie, try the full-flavored cured fish roe in pasta. This is why people fall in love with Italy! The shores of Cagliari, like Sicily, are the home of delicious island food culture. The sun-swelled environment and grape-growing conditions make it ideal for fresh produce. You will experience a fusion of African and Mediterranean flavors in this place. 9. Sorrento, Bay of Naples Best Time To Visit: Late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October)  Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport (NAP)  Duration: 3 days  Sorrento is situated on a cliff where you can overlook the beautiful and glittering Bay of Naples! When you visit the sun-kissed city, you must enjoy the delicious food. It is one of the best food cities in Italy, with its multilayered culture and flavoursome dishes. You will be getting the gastronomic experience of your life. One popular product, lemons, is associated with several dishes in this city. The Italian coastal town will create an escape for you to experience culture, tradition, and finger-licking food. When you start tasting food there, you will see lemons in everything, from seafood dinner to a chilled glass of limoncello or infused in a pastry. Local ingredients such as mozzarella or olive oil are available for deliciousness in the dishes, so you can visit a local farm to experience the native taste! Local dishes like gnocchi alla Sorrentina are magical meals that you can have while sitting in a lemon-fragranced garden. The food scene even includes seafood, which is quite popular. 10. Parma, Emilia-Romangna Best Time To Visit: Autumn  Nearest Airport: Parma Airport  Duration: 1 day  Popular places like Bologna and Naples often overshadow the charming small city, Parma. With its rich culinary heritage, Parma is quite a historic place with its baptistry lineage and ancient buildings. Even the food culture of Parma is something to be excited about! So, what do you want to know about this place? The first and most important thing to understand is that it is one of the few cities known for producing versatile and delectable hard cheese. Umami parcels of meat, tortellini in brood, and Parmigiano Reggiano in a delicious and fragrant chicken broth are some of the regional specialties. You can easily sit in a tiny piazza, looking at the baroque facade of a church, and enjoy these delicacies. The Best Places To Go In Italy Listed  In short, I have shared with you some of the best places to visit in Italy to experience the best culture. Furthermore, you will also learn about some of the popular restaurants, and which dishes you can try when you visit. I have selected the best food cities, along with the beautiful locations of churches and colonies, creating an otherworldly experience for you. In addition to the places, you also experience the traditions, the culture, and the ways of life. Comment on which place has attracted you the most and why.