The large "boot shaped" country in Southern Europe has a
history spanning back many years. Still, today it is as popular
a destination as ever before, especially for those with strong
ties to the Catholic Church. In the middle of Italy there are
two independent mini-states - San Marino and Vatican City - that
are popular places to go if you're in the country. Italy isn't
specifically part of the European Union, but they are tied
economically. A peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean Sea,
Italy has been around a long, long time with many different
divisions. In the modern world, Italy is sometimes just as
divided as in the past. This doesn't mean it's not a wonderful
place to visit if you're going to Europe.
Tips for Traveling to Italy
Weather - Being close to
the Mediterranean Sea and also having mountains, the weather
in Italy can vary quite a bit depending on where you go.
Language - Italian is the
official language, but you may be able to find a lot of
English speakers depending on where you are.
Currency - The Euro is the
money of choice in Italy. There are many places you can
exchange currency, however, so this isn't a problem.
Food - If you're going to
Italy for the food, be aware that authentic Italian cooking is
most likely unlike what you'll find outside of the country, so
be warned. That doesn't mean the food's not terrific, though,
because a lot of it is if you know where to eat and avoid the
tourist traps.
Places to See in Italy
Rome - As well as being the
capital of Italy, this city is home to the Vatican and the
Roman Catholic Church.
Bologna - This wonderful
city is full of culture and is home to the first university in
the West.
Florence - If you like
architecture - especially that of the Renaissance - Florence
must be on your list of places to see in Italy.
Milan - This is the heart
of fashion in the world according to many people. If you like
clothes and accessories (even shoes), come to Milan and plan
to spend some money.
Naples - One of the oldest
cities in the West, this is still a popular destination for
people from all over the world.
Pisa - Want to see the
famous leaning tower before it falls all the way down? Stop in
Pisa. There's quite a bit of other things to see here as well.
Venice - With canals,
romance and a rich history all over the city, Venice may be
your only stop if you visit there first.
Italy Forever
Italy may have a tarnished history according to some, but if
you like food, culture and the finer things in life, this is one
of the best places in Europe to find them. And if you want
ancient history that leaps out at you, there's almost no better
place in the West to visit to see how the ancients lived in the
area, all the while enjoying the modern wonders available as
well. Almost a perfect blend of the old world and the 21st
century, Italy is sure to have something for you, the discerning
traveler. If it's your first visit, make sure you make enough
time for everything you want to see. There's nothing worse than
being rushed from place to place without being able to enjoy any
of it. With that in mind, if you plan your trip wisely, you're
sure to enjoy all the sites you can fit in. If nothing else,
plan on two trips if possible so you don't have to leave
anything out.
