Discover Italy
Discover Italy
Fresh pasta, pizzas and good wine are the first things that come to mind when someone says Italy but, then again, I’m partial to really nice food. To others, Italy will be about heritage, culture and customs that date back to before the Romans…I think neither is wrong.
In a nutshell, everyone could find a reason to go to Italy as it has so many things to offer, and for every budget as well.
Getting there
The easiest way from the UK is by air and numerous scheduled and charter services offer a multitude of flights into a wide selection of Italian airports.For most of the holiday options I have explored, flights to Italy are the least part of the price whereas accommodation and transfers are quite expensive.
For those with more time on their hands, train travel may be an option but will be more expensive than flights. A coach trip, as with rail, would give you a lot more sight-seeing opportunities but, once again, takes substantially longer and wouldn’t save any money. One last option may appeal to a lot of people…what about a cruise? There are many cruise options from various ports and this can get you in to see other countries as well.
What to see
A huge draw to Italy is the architecture; fantastic Roman ruins and amazing basilicas abound from Milan in the North to Sicily in the South. The cities of Naples and Venice, on the West and East coasts provide a great opportunity for a twin centre break to see the ruins of Pompeii and then the amazing architecture of the Venetians. Flights are available between most Italian cities but I would suggest a train to get the most out of the landscape.
Italy also has some amazing beach resorts but you won’t find your typical all-inclusive holidays…they just don’t do them. Getting out and about seems to be the Italian way and local dining options always abound, and for all budgets as well. Keep an eye out for where the locals congregate in the evenings…this is usually a good way to get the best food at the best value.
Where to go
Italy isn’t just about beautiful cities and beaches; the fashion outlets of Milan, Lake Garda near Verona or Mount Etna in Sicily are other attractions to be considered. Villa holidays are quite popular and a self catering option gives you the opportunity to get the most from the local produce and to meet the locals at the markets.
