Impressive Italy: which cities are a must-see

Italy is a unique combination of history, beautiful landscapes, and incredible cities. Italy has long been and still is a global center of art, music, literature, philosophy, and science.

According to the latest rankings, Italy is among the five most popular countries in the world. The Guardian has published a list of the top Italian cities to visit.

Rome

A lot has already been said about Rome, and all tourists know it has its own list of must-visits: from the Colosseum and the ruins of the Forum to the Trevi Fountain. One of the most interesting but little-known art galleries in Rome is the Centrale Montemartini. This former power plant now houses Roman and Greek statues and mosaics nestled among industrial equipment. It is easily accessible, just a short walk from the Garbatella Metro Station.

Novara di Sicilia

Novara di Sicilia in northeastern Sicily is a picturesque mountain village with a rich history. You can enjoy fantastic views, fresh mountain air, and historical monuments that tell the story of centuries past. Local restaurants serve traditional cuisine such as arancini, pasta alla norma (with tomatoes and eggplant), and cannoli. Novara di Sicilia is an authentic village where fairs and festivals are constantly held. However, there are almost no crowds of tourists here, so this is an ideal chance to enjoy the true Italian flavor.

Gargano Peninsula

The peninsula has spectacular geology, beautiful beaches, and stunning cities, including Monte Sant'Angelo and San Giovanni Rotondo. Between Vieste and Pescici, on the Adriatic coast, you can see trabucchi – intriguing fishing platforms on stilts of ancient origin, some of which have been converted into cafes and restaurants.

Piccole Dolomiti

Many people are familiar with the Dolomites, but few have heard of the Piccole Dolomiti, which is located further south. This area was the front line between Austria and Italy during the First World War, with a huge number of paths laid out by the armies. This creates an incredible selection of hiking opportunities, including the historic Strada delle 52 Gallerie (The Way of the 52 Tunnels). Ossario del Pasubio is a moving monument on the top of the mountain dedicated to fallen soldiers.

San Pellegrino Terme

In San Pellegrino Terme, you can enjoy the art nouveau architecture or soak in the famous thermal baths. And in winter, the Foppolo ski resort opens its doors. At any time of the year, it is pleasant to stroll along the streets of San Giovanni Bianco and Piazza Brembana, watching the flow of the Brembo River.

Castell’Arquato

Castell’Arquato is a beautiful medieval town in the foothills of the Val d'Arda, about 30 km from Parma, overlooked by the Rocca Viscontea fortress. There are two parking lots at the foot, from where you can climb through the arch and along the cobblestone streets and alleys to enjoy the panorama and visit the fortress. Opposite the Palazzo del Podesta, art exhibitions are held. Also worth a visit are the Luigi Illika, the Geological Museum with its prehistoric whale and dolphin remains, and many restaurants and wine bars where you can taste salumi and local red wine.

Salina Island

Salina is one of the volcanic Aeolian Islands. Its craters are no longer active, but it offers a great view of Stromboli. A few years ago, developers tried to buy the hillside behind the village of Leni, but a group of islanders united and convinced the authorities to let them buy the land. Now there is nothing there but olive trees. The locals organize walks to watch the sunset over the neighboring islands of Filicudi and Alicudi, then offer barbecue, wine, and heartfelt feasts.

San Nicola Arcella

San Nicola Arcella is a small town on the cliffs overlooking the island of Dino in a beautiful bay on the Calabrian coast, about two hours south of Naples. It is a great town with live music on clean beaches. The Palazzo dei Principi Lanza di Trabia, the Saracen fort, and the hills with great views are worth a visit.

Arqua Petrarca

An hour's drive from Venice, south of Padua, is the beautiful Euganean hills regional park, a natural paradise with lush forests, cute hilltop villages, thermal springs, and vineyards. From the Monselice train station, a leisurely stroll will lead you to the village of Arqua Petrarca, where the 14th-century poet Francesco  Petrarca lived. The southern border of the park is the fort city of Este, and for incredible views, it is worth visiting Teolo and Monte Venda – the highest of the volcanic hills.

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