How to spend a fantastic vacation in Italy: where to go

Italy is a country that impresses with its beauty, history, culture, and gastronomy. Its landscapes, architecture, art, and food leave an unforgettable impression.

If you want not only to visit popular tourist destinations but also to discover the unexplored corners of Italy, learn about the best locations in this country. Lonely Planet has named unique routes for an unforgettable weekend that will allow you to feel the true atmosphere of this amazing country.

Secret Italy around Viterbo: Etruscan ruins, castles and lakes

The region around Viterbo, located north of Rome, remains little known among tourists but hides many treasures. Here you can find fabulous Renaissance castles and gardens, the remains of Roman amphitheaters, picturesque villages, and impressive hilltop settlements, as well as numerous Etruscan ruins. One of the most interesting places is the Tarquinia Necropolis with thousands of tombs, some of which are decorated with frescoes. No less impressive are Villa Lante with its magnificent gardens and the Park of Monsters in Bomarzo with sculptures of mythical creatures. Nature lovers will enjoy the volcanic lakes of Bolsena and Lago di Vico.

Where to stay and when to go:

For accommodation, we recommend Tenuta di Paternostro, located among olive groves, which offers luxury suites and wellness treatments. The best time to visit is in early September when the traditional Macchina di Santa Rosa procession takes place in Viterbo.

La dolce vita on Lake Garda and in Verona: picturesque views

Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, and Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, offer the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions. On Lake Garda, you can visit picturesque towns such as Limone, Malcesine, Sirmione, and Bardolino, as well as the private island of Isola del Garda with its luxury villa. In Verona, it is worth visiting the Roman Arena and Juliet's balcony.

Where to stay and when to go:

Lake Garda has a lot of accommodation options, and in Verona, it is recommended to stay in the historic center, for example, at the Due Torri Hotel. The best time to visit is during the Bacanal del Gnoco carnival in Verona (the last weekend before Lent), the summer opera festival, or the Christmas holidays.

Local lore in Piedmont: gastronomic paradise and royal palaces

Piedmont, the birthplace of the Slow Food movement and famous wines, is an ideal place for gourmets. Here you can enjoy local products such as arborio rice, hazelnuts, white truffles, and cheeses. The capital of the region, Turin, impresses with its elegant architecture and boulevards. It is worth visiting the UNESCO-listed Corona di Delizie royal palaces and tasting the famous Barolo wine.

When to go:

The best time to visit is during the harvest season (August-October) when markets and restaurants offer a wide variety of fresh produce. In September, Turin hosts the Terra Madre Salone del Gusto festival, Asti the delle Sagre di Asti festival, and the Palio di Asti horse race.

The green heart of Italy in Umbria: medieval cities and natural landscapes

Umbria, located in the heart of Italy, is known for its green valleys, hilltop towns, and rich history. Here you can visit the capital of the region, Perugia, with its historical monuments, and the city of Assisi, associated with the life of St. Francis. Nature lovers will enjoy Lake Trasimeno with its picturesque shores and islands.

When to go:

In July, Perugia hosts the Umbrian Jazz Festival, and in December – Orovieto. On May 15, Gubbio hosts the Corsa dei Ceri Candle Festival.

Traveling in Puglia: beaches, white cities, and the Adriatic coast

Puglia, located in the south of Italy, impresses with its contrasting landscapes – from the blue sea to green olive groves and white hilltop towns. Here you can visit the baroque city of Lecce, the historic center of Bari, and enjoy a beach vacation on the Adriatic coast.

The best time to visit is spring or fall when the beaches are not crowded with tourists. In August, Ostuni hosts the Festa di Sant'Oronzo, and from December 26 to the last Tuesday before Lent, Putignano hosts a carnival.

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