Eight Unforgettable Places in Italy

Photo of the Cinque Terre

The Unforgettable Places in Italy (in no particular order)

1) Cinque Terre

Five little villages clinging precariously to the cliffs above the Mediterranean. With Lake Orta and Venice the Cinque Terre is certainly one of the most romantic spots in Italy. Visit in early spring to avoid crowds and the best place to stay is the Oasi Hotel in nearby Levento

2) Orta San Giulia and Lake Orta

Not Italy's biggest lake but Lake Orta is certainly the most romantic and most picturesque of all the Italian Lakes (discover Lake Orta here).

3) The Amalfi Coast

Probably the most famous piece of coastline in Italy but despite the tourists, inflated prices and often poor service the Amalfi coast is great. If you can find space I would suggest you stay at the tiny but excellent Luce situated in the heart of Amalfi.

4) The Dolomites

Champagne air, awe-inspiring mountains, green forests and some lovely little villages. Belluno is a great base for exploring the region

5) The Langhe wine region

I have visited wine regions on three continents and all over Italy and I reckon the Langhe is the best wine growing area in the world, a very special place indeed. Villages in the Langhe like Neive and Barolo are delightful.

Home to the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, Italy and perhaps all of Europe. These are our favorite beaches

7) Pitigliano and surrounds in Tuscany

Pitigliano is one of Italy's loveliest towns and once home to a significant Jewish community. The scenery is very different from the better known parts of Tuscany.

8) Gargano in Puglia

The Gargano peninsula is the sight of pilgrimage for millions who come to visit San Giovanni Rotondo, famous because of Saint Padre Pio. It is a spectacular area with some of the best coastal drives in Italy - definitely unforgettable.

What Makes Italy Special?

Is it a place, the food or something else, what makes Italy so wonderful for you?