Italy: Land of Art, Architecture, History and Cuisine

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Advisor - Alina Myklebust
Curated By

Alina Myklebust

  • Arts & Culture

  • Boutique Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Group Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • Solo Travel

  • Italy

  • Architecture

  • History

  • Local Culture

local-art-italy-travel-guide
Curator’s statement

Are you passionate about art, architecture, history and local cuisine? The country of Italy delivers all of the above in an unmatched way. If it’s your first time planning a trip to Italy or you are returning after a long absence, you do not want to miss Venice, Florence and Rome.

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Where to stay in Italy

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Things to do in Italy

A view of a canal in Italy at dusk.

First impressions: Venice is the perfect destination to start your Italy trip. Arriving by plane in Venice and transferring to your hotel by private boat is the ultimate first impression of Italy. Selecting a hotel near the main attractions but away from the crowds is the best way to get the most out of your three days in Venice. Start your sightseeing along the hidden canals and make your way to the Rialto Bridge. Visit St. Mark’s Square, Dodge’s Palace Museum and the Jewish Ghetto in Cannaregio. If time permits, take a trip to Murano to experience the famous glass-blowing tradition.

Next stop: Florence is easily accessible by train from Venice. High-speed trains will get you to Florence (Santa Maria Novella station) in approximately two hours. Once in Florence, head to Mercato Céntrale (food hall) to discover local Tuscan specialties. Nearby, visit Galleria dell’Accademia (by reservation) to see Michelangelo’s famous David statue. End your first day at Piazza Michelangelo and enjoy an Aperol drink before dinner. Additional highlights in Florence include the Uffizi Gallery Museum, The Duomo Cathedral, the old bridge (Ponte Vecchio) on the Arno river and

Final encore: Rome is the capital of Italy, and its history and culture is vast and grand. Be prepared to see magnificent monuments, ancient ruins, religious sites and the art of the grand masters (Michelangelo, Leonardo, Rafael and Bernini). In between visits to the main attractions, take some time to stroll through some of the best neighborhoods in the historic center. Including Campo di Fiore, Trastevere, Monti and Il Ghetto.

Places to eat & drink in Italy

The large coliseum in Rome, Italy.
  • Venice: Osteria Alle Testiere for local seafood specialties (Michelin Guide).

  • Florence: Mercato Central (food hall) for local Tuscan specialties.

  • Rome: La Carbonara in Campo Di Fiore for the classic Roman carbonara pasta.

Advisor - Alina Myklebust

Travel Advisor

Alina Myklebust

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Rileigh Tower's guide, The Hidden Gem of Italy: Lake Maggiore.