Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world. Each tourist flock to its beaches, ruins, and mountains and step into a world over 3,000 years old. Here are ten places to visit on and off the guidebook trail in Italy.

Rome
The capital wasn’t built in a day and you’ll need a lifetime to see it. With so many sites and places to see, you’ll never be at a loss to do. Whether it’s exploring the ancient roman forum and walking where Caesar did, seeing the Vatican, or making a wish at the Trevi Fountain, Rome is an obvious stop for anyone’s trip to Italy

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Florence
Birthplace of the renaissance and home to the David, Florence is Italy’s second obvious stop. For art lovers and foodies, Florence offers an array of goodies. (Try the gelato!!!) Another bonus: it’s right in Tuscany, home of Italy’s premier wine country.

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Venice
The city of lovers- Venice is a great place for couples and families. Hang out in St. Mark’s Square (watch out for all the pigeons!!), stroll through tiny alleys, and take a gondola ride through the canals. Venice may be an expensive city but it is worth every Euro.

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Cinque Terra
Five towns located on cliffs overlooking the ocean, Cinque Terra is simply breathtaking. Spend the day walking the 12km trail that connects each town, exploring there tiny streets, and stopping at little cafes. Explore the olive groves in the hills and relax yourself with a shot of Limoncello.

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Sicily
Sicily may be famous for the mafia but it has much more than that. Sicily has a long history of foreign domination and he result is an eclectic culture that mixes it all in. Every little city seems to have its own culture. Come and explore the countryside and well preserved towns. Just don’t ask for Tony Soprano!

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Turin
Turin is a major city in northern Italy. Turin is well-known as the home of the Shroud of Turin and host of the 2006 Winter Olympics. Located right near the alps, with the Po River flowing through the city, and villas dotting the surrounding area, Turin is trying to attract more tourist so get there before the crowds!

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Capri
Capri is an Italian island in the Gulf of Naples. It has been a major resort destination since Roman time and is popular with the well to do of the world. During summers, the island sees a lot of tourists, who mostly stick to the major towns. Get out of the towns and the island is yours!

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Sorrento
The gateway to the Amalfi coast, Sorrento is located on the Bay of Naples. It’s especially busy here in the summer time but the city is big enough and has enough to offer for all its visitors. This sea sport has been active for thousands of years and has a rich history. Any journey down south would be incomplete without a visit.

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Abruzzo
Abruzzo holds some of Italy’s best-preserved medieval and Renaissance hill towns. Many lie entirely within regional and national parks so they won’t be developed anytime soon. Abruzzo is an excellent place to see some of Italy’s best preserved landscape.

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San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a small walled medieval hill town in Tuscany. It’s famous for its medieval architecture, especially its high towers. Of the 72 that once existed, 13 remain today. San Gimignano is a popular destination for day trippers from Florence, but spend the night here and the city quiets down and takes you back in time.

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