Italy is a country of sunshine, joy, and the pleasure of living. It’s no wonder that when we want to take a break from our work and daily routines, we start planning our vacation and often feel drawn to Italy. This country has a unique atmosphere of warmness, leisure, and romance. So today, we would like to better introduce you to the very special Italian regions which mirror this incredible energy.
Tuscany
Tuscany is worldwide known thanks to its rolling hills and a special antique and calm atmosphere. It offers far more beyond the usual tourist spots like the city of Florence and the Pisa Tower – for example, we recommend you to see the village of Pitigliano, often called as “Little Jerusalem”; thanks to its historical Jewish community and a unique architecture, being built into tufa rock. Next, take a tour of the underground city and the Etruscan caverns to enter into the past’s mysteries firsthand. To see something truly exceptional, also visit the seaside town of Livorno. Here, the neighborhood of Venezia Nuova will remind you of Venice because of its system of canals and historical structures. To get a new perspective on the city, take a boat cruise around these canals.
The Val d’Orcia region, located in the center of Tuscany, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that unfortunately many visitors miss due to its distance from the most famous landmarks.
But with its recognizable cypress-lined lanes and ancient hilltop villages like Pienza and Montalcino, this region is perfect for an idyllic drive. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, Val d’Orcia is well-known for their regional wines and delectable cuisine. That’s why it’s recommended to stay a few days to discover the authentic beauty of the region. Be sure to book your perfect stay among the many hotels in Italy to have the best Tuscan experience.
Lazio
Though Lazio is frequently associated with Rome, there is much more to discover in the area for those who are willing to enjoy the beauty of the region to the fullest. Viterbo, which is about an hour north of Rome, is very recommended to visit especially because of San Pellegrino, a very well-preserved medieval district. Following that, unwind in the Etruscan hot springs at Terme dei Papi, which mineral-rich waters are famous for being capable of “revitalizing body and soul”. Finally, the Gardens of Bomarzo, also called the Park of Monsters, is ideal for art and nature lovers because of its fantastical sculptures and mythological creatures carved out of rock. Sperlonga, a seaside town in Lazio, is another undiscovered beauty: it has gorgeous white-washed homes perched on cliffs and breathtaking beaches lapped by crystal waves.
Umbria
Unknown to many because of its more well-known neighbors, Umbria is still a cultural and natural wonderland. Food lovers will find gourmet paradise in Norcia, a town famous for its black truffles and culinary legacy. Here, you may sample and purchase some of the greatest truffles in Italy when you visit during the yearly Nero Norcia truffle festival. In close proximity, the Sibillini Mountains National Park of Umbria has an abundance of hiking paths where you will have the opportunity to observe fauna like golden eagles and wolves. Situated atop a cliff of volcanic rock in the heart of Umbria, Orvieto is renowned for its cathedral, which is among the most exquisite in all of Italy. A masterwork of Gothic architecture, the Duomo’s facade is made of elaborate mosaics and carvings.
Finally, one of Europe’s tallest artificial waterfalls, Marmore Falls was built by the Romans and offers breathtaking vistas as well as adventurous activities like kayaking and rafting. Umbria is a great place for those who enjoy both cultural and outdoor activities because of the beautiful park that surrounds the falls and gives many opportunities to enjoy the Italian nature.
Italy is a destination straight out of a storybook. See it all for yourself and learn about Italy’s locations firsthand!
