About Italy

Italy is a country that really does have it all. From the magnificent mountains of the Alps and the Dolomites, to the stunning beaches of Capri and the Italian Riviera; from ancient Roman ruins to the timeless rolling countryside of Tuscany. Whatever you want from a destination, you’ll find it here.

Italian’s have a real joy of living, and it’s easy to see why. Great cooking, delicious wines, unrivalled sartorial style and a laid back approach to life makes for good living from the mountainous industrial north to the unspoilt beaches of the south. It is no accident that some of the world’s top fashion houses, most exciting sports cars and most inspiring art can all be found in Italy; this is not a country that does anything by halves.

While most countries have one or two iconic cities to visit, Italy has literally dozens. Florence, Genoa, Naples, Pisa, Turin and Venice all conjure images of spectacular renaissance architecture and chic style – and they’re not even the best! Italy’s capital, Rome, is a city like no other, with incredible Roman ruins such as the Coliseum, sitting alongside chic boutiques and some of the world’s finest restaurants. Rome was once the capital of the known world, and it shows. For many, it is still the centre, with the Papal State, a unique country within a country and home to the Catholic Church, lying in the heart of Rome itself.

History is everywhere in Italy, with Roman ruins and an intriguing mix of other influences on show at every turn. The grand St Peter’s Square and ancient canals of Venice are a must, as is the famous ‘Leaning Tower’ in Pisa. However, while Italy has countless historic sites and attractions, nothing comes close to Pompeii, the Roman city immaculately preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. Here you can walk back through time along the original Roman streets, where the echoes of the bustling crowds see to still hang in the air.

There are so many sights to see, but Italy is about much more than sightseeing. Italy is about living, whether that’s hurling down a ski slope in the shadow of Mont Blanc, or stretching out in the sun in Sardinia. Best of all, you’re welcomed to join in with open arms. Italians have a warm, friendly approach to life and are delighted to share their country with visitors because they understand just why you want to be there.