Living la Dolce Vita in Italy
We are here to help you discover the best Italy has to offer. With a love for local culture, history and tradition, our travel guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey through one of the most passionate countries in the world. Discover Italy through its food, wine, markets and private wineries. Meet local craftsmen to learn about their art and visit some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.¨
Italy is beloved for its stunning scenery and rich culture
The famous Italian dolce vita – or the sweet life – has long been the stuff of legend. When the term was coined in the 1950s by filmmaker Federico Fellini, it was used to describe the indulgent lifestyles of celebrities and wealthy Italians. But today, you don't have to be rich or famous to enjoy an Italian dolce vita. In fact, la dolce vita is something that every traveler can experience on his or her next trip to Italy.
One of the most important aspects of la dolce vita is slowing down and enjoying life's simple pleasures. This means taking plenty of time to linger over your morning espresso at a sidewalk cafe and enjoying a leisurely lunch with friends. It means spending your days wandering through museums and art galleries instead of racing from one attraction to another. And it means stopping whenever you feel like it to take photographs or watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.
In other words, la dolce vita translates into doing whatever brings you pleasure during your travels. So get ready to live la dolce vita in Italy with these tips!
Italy attracts more than 40 million tourists a year, many in search of food, culture and history
Italy's rich history, world-class art, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes make it a popular destination for travellers. Italy attracts more than 40 million tourists a year, many in search of food, culture and history.
For those who want to get off the beaten path and experience the country like a local, we've put together a few tips for your next vacation to Italy.
Take the train!
Italy has an extensive rail network that connects major cities and smaller towns. Trains are very reliable, clean and fast. They're also inexpensive; you can get from Rome to Venice for around $100 round trip. From Florence or Rome, you can easily explore Cinque Terre or other parts of Tuscany by train. Trains are great for day trips too: You can reach Pompeii from Naples in about half an hour.
What to see
Italy is a very beautiful country with a lot to see and do. Tuscany, for example, is just waiting for you to visit it. You can visit this region in any season you want. In spring and summer the weather is really hot and sunny, in fall and winter the weather is cold. The most beautiful places are Florence, Siena, Lucca, all really close to each other in the heart of Italy.
Florence is a charming town very rich in culture and art. There are many museums and churches you will have the chance to visit. You cannot miss Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia (where you can see Michelangelo's David), Duomo di Firenze (one of the biggest cathedrals in Italy), Ponte Vecchio (the oldest bridge in Florence), Palazzo Pitti (home of the Medici family).
In Tuscany there are many beautiful cities you can choose from like San Gimignano or Siena, both world heritage sites recognized by UNESCO. These two cities are very close to each other so if you have time I suggest seeing both of them.
Join us for a journey beyond the guidebooks
It’s been said that all roads lead to Rome. If you like to travel and are looking for an adventure getaway that offers it all — great food, art and culture, spectacular scenery and friendly locals — then you can’t go wrong with Italy. For four weeks this summer, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the country, sampling regional specialties and exploring the distinctive landscape and culture of each region.
From gelato in Venice to tiny pastries in Sardinia, from hearty panini in Tuscany to pizza in Naples, there is no shortage of tasty treats to discover along the way. We’ll also look at some of Italy’s most iconic wines, including Chianti and Barolo. And since life is more than just food and drink, we’ll explore off-the-beaten-path attractions like ancient ruins in Puglia, lesser-known museums in Florence and outdoor markets in Milan.
Bon voyage!
