When thinking of Italy a lot comes to mind. There are the obvious words like architecture, pizza, sunshine, beaches, and gelato. Getting the chance to explore this country will always leave you wanting more. Here are some cities to add to your summer travel list
Capri
Coming in from the ferry the view of Capri was just amazing. On a nice summer day you can feel the breeze from the ocean brushing against your face and the sun rays kissing your skin. It’s inviting to lounge by the water, or explore the area. There is an array of choices for restaurants as you walk around town. For a view from above you can catch the funicular up the mountain, or you can take a boat ride to the blue grotto down below.
Florence
The architecture of this cathedral alone will add Florence on your list. It took about 140 years to built this beauty, the sheer size will leave you in awe. You can find many things to do in this city, it is walkable and full of life and of course the food. You can travel to Florence by air into the Florence airport, or the Pisa airport. If you are visiting another major city like Rome and aren’t short on time, I would suggest driving through the country for a better feel. But beware the summer time crowds and the heat can be a bit overwhelming.
Rome
I have to admit Rome was not on my must see when planning my first Italian trip, granted at the time the beaches were my main interest. Within the city limits and the Vatican there were a lot to see and do. My ventures beyond that were not much to recommend. The history and the architecture are best absorbed walking around, getting lost and I’d even say it is even better at night. Book in advance for your colosseum, Vatican, and sistine chapel tours.
Sorrento
Another beach retreat after the stomping around the inland cities is Sorrento. Since I always enjoy a good road trip the decision was easy to make my way there by driving. The GPS took me down some narrow winding roads, uphill with views peaking through. It is one of the nicest drives I’ve taken . Finally arriving beach side was worth it all but a word of advice is to get there early, avoid the crowd to snag a parking spot.
Venice
Come here and do all the tourist things. I mean c’mon who does not want to be serenaded to on a gondola ride? Or run through a flying crowd of pigeons in St Marks’s Square? You can take boat taxis all around and look for Murano glass that fit into your budget. Visit around carnival season when people get serious about dressing up, or for new years celebrations on the square. Better yet visit just any day of the week where you can get lost in the narrow streets. When you get tired of it all, duck into one of the many restaurants for some good food and some tiramisu. It’s Amore!!