Looking For Culture, Food, and Art? Travel to Italy

A trip to Europe wouldn’t be complete without dropping by this famous boot-shaped country called Italy. Located along the Mediterranean coast, Italy is located at the southern end of Europe. The Roman Empire was originally a huge, advanced civilization that eventually developed into a large empire in ancient times. In spite of centuries having passed since the height of Roman power, it is still revered as the center of Roman Catholicism. Travelers to Italy never fail to visit its fascinating cities: Rome, Venice, Florence, and Naples, to name a few.

In Rome, or Roma, is Vatican City, the center of power and politics for Roman Catholicism. Every year, millions of devotees from around the world visit this sacred site as an act of devotion. The Coliseum, an architectural marvel that was originally built for entertainment purposes (usually barbaric combat), is another attraction in Rome. Despite its embarrassment in the past, it has been recognized as one of the last symbols of ancient Roman majesty.

Florence (Florencia) is the city in southern Europe where the great Renaissance era began. The stylish architecture and taste for art in this city still bear the imprint of that time period. The Academia and Costume Galleries are among the many museums in the city. Il Duomo or The Dome is another work of art you shouldn’t miss. It took almost six centuries for the dome to be finished. A climb up the 414-step bell tower will reveal the magnificence of Renaissance Florence.

On your way down in Italy, you will stop in the city of Naples. Its name originates from the Greek word Neapolis, which means a new city. Many tourists fall in love with Naples. Several features are available, and you can choose which to focus on. Because of its many monuments, walking through its streets will never be boring. Because of the masterpieces that are permanently exhibited on the streets, Naples is also known as an open museum city. Europe’s first modern observatory, Capodimonte Astronomical Observatory, which was built in 1791, is a must-see in this city.

You cannot visit Italy without visiting Venice (Venezia) and its world-famous canals and lagoons. Venice is like stepping into another world. The island is separated from mainland Italy and is one of the few places in the world in which transportation is primarily by water. Due to its romantic setting, soothing music, and fabulous cuisine, Venice is also considered a lovers’ haven in Italy. The most famous landmarks of this city are St. Mark’s Square or Piazza San Marco, and St. Mark’s Basilica.

Visiting Italy’s crowded cities and attractions may exhaust you after a few days, so tourists are advised to take some time to relax in the peaceful countryside after the city. Tuscany is the perfect place to relax and soothe your muscles. The vast sunflower fields and well-mannered people will surely relieve your stress.

You should allow yourself at least a week to tour around Italy if you are going to travel there. Rushing your trips along Italy’s cities will only leave you tired and unsatisfied. Don’t overpack clothing because there are lots of shops where you can buy what you will wear the next day. In addition, do not stick to your itinerary because there may be far more exciting things to see than what you have planned. Once you have checked these reminders, you are ready to go.