home Audience 5 The most populated city in Italy. The best cities of italy - a map of italy with cities in Russian, the most beautiful, large italian cities

The most populated city in Italy. The best cities of italy - a map of italy with cities in Russian, the most beautiful, large italian cities

Rich history, developed tourist infrastructure, abundance of sights, comfortable hotels, plenty of entertainment, delicious food and hospitality of local residents - all of these "charms" are directly related to Italy. The country has a large number of cities, each of which has its own unique features. We will talk about the 10 most popular Italian cities for tourists in today's article.

Note: There are 448 churches in Naples. The most famous are the chapels of San Lorenzo Maggiore, San Gennaro, Sangro di San Severo, Jesu Novo, etc.

What is Italy famous for? our readers will ask. You will find the answer to this question in the material described above. Fashionable Milan, stunning Venice, majestic Rome, friendly Rimini, unique Pisa, cultural Florence, historic Pompeii - the list is endless. Each city pleases its guests with an abundance of sights, after viewing which tourists go home with an updated baggage of knowledge, a lot of vivid photographs and inexpressible emotions.

In the holiday period that has begun, many of our compatriots choose beautiful Italy as a place to relax. For those who are no longer surprised by the hustle and bustle of the eternal city of Rome and the shopping of Milan, our selection of the coziest Italian cities by the sea.

Probably, each of us has ever dreamed of spending, if not life, then at least a vacation in a quiet village by the sea, drinking coffee and tasting wines in local restaurants, listening to the voices of seagulls and the sound of the surf.

Choose!

(Total 10 photos)

Vernazza is considered the most organic, beautiful and picturesque town of the Italian "five lands" (Cinque Terre) of Liguria. Today, a little over a thousand people live here, so Vernazza is also one of the quietest towns, and only calm Manarola can compete with it. Against the backdrop of multi-colored multi-storey tower houses, the older medieval walls of galleries, palaces, a monastery and, of course, a castle, whose low walls once guarded the peace of local residents from pirate raids, catch your eye. In the narrow streets of Vernazza, at steep angles going down to the sea, at almost every step you can see boats "parked" by the houses as naturally as the cars that stand in our yards at the entrances look.

Portofino is a resort on the Ligurian coast. It is surrounded by hills covered with olive trees. From the windows of the panoramic cable car, the whole town is visible at a glance. Guy De Maupassant loved to visit here, writing about Portofino: "This green bay in the realm of harmony and peace, so contrasts with all the vain anxieties of our life." It has everything: untouched nature and magnificent beaches, architectural monuments and expensive shops. The former fishing village has turned into an amazing resort that world celebrities love to visit.

Atrani is a small town on the western coast of Italy, in the Campania region, in the province of Salerno. Atrani carefully preserves its medieval origin and with its picturesque lanes, arches, courtyards, squares and stairs, it looks like a festive Christmas scenery washed by the sea. During the time of the Amalfi Republic, the most noble families lived in this town. The coronation and burial of the Doges took place here. Atrani is located just 700 meters from Amalfi, in a natural amphitheater, surrounded by huge cliffs rising up. The center of Atrani is far from the noisy roads of the coast, as only local residents are allowed to enter the city: this helps to maintain a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in the town.

Positano is one of the most famous resorts in southern Italy, located on the Gulf of Salerno, on the Amalfi Coast. The beauty of the local landscapes made Positano a mecca for artists back in the 19th century. The town is scattered over three small valleys sandwiched between mountains and the sea. Characteristic colorful houses climb the steep mountain slopes. From almost anywhere in the town offers a magnificent view of the sea. Positano has been known since Roman times. According to legend, it was founded by the god of the sea, Neptune (Poseidon). The islets of Galli off the coast of Positano are mentioned in the Odyssey - according to Homer, it was here that the sirens lived. From the Middle Ages, watchtowers built to protect against Saracen pirates have been preserved in the town.

Ravello is a city of music with romantic gardens, cool alleys and medieval architecture. In the 11th-13th centuries, at the invitation of wealthy merchants, Arab architects came to Ravello and built luxurious palaces here. To this day, Ravello has retained the charm of the ancient village. The rich culture of Ravello is closely linked to its musical heritage. Wagner often rested here, in love with this place, which inspired him to write many of his famous works. Every year in the summer, a festival of symphonic music named after him is held here. From the slopes of the terrace on which Ravello is located, magnificent landscapes of the Amalfi Coast open up.

Manarola is a small fishing town in Liguria, northern Italy. The city is located on a cliff overlooking the wild coastline of the Ligurian Sea. It is also one of the five cities that make up the Cinque Terre. Manarola is the oldest and one of the smallest cities of the famous five. In the center of the town is the Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338. In the western part there is a small harbor, and in the east there is a square where locals often gather to discuss any important issues. Although there is no beach, it is a good place for snorkeling and exploring caves and rock crevices. A special staircase was built to descend to the water. The main industry here is traditionally fishing and winemaking. Even in the days of the Roman Empire, the local wine was valued for its excellent taste.

Sorrento has always been known as a prestigious holiday destination: Roman patricians built villas in the vicinity of the city, and Emperor Tiberius himself settled on the nearby island of Capri. Sorrento is located on steep cliffs of volcanic tuff, breaking off into the Gulf of Naples. Tasso Square can be called the heart of Sorrento. It is from here that the main shopping street Via Corso begins, famous for its restaurants, shops and clubs. Sorrento has two ports, Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. Every morning, sea rockets leave from Marina Grande for the islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida and the neighboring cities of Positano and Amalfi.

The small town of Rapallo is located 40 kilometers from Genoa. There are many historical monuments here - ancient cathedrals and churches, the oldest is the church of St. Gervasio and Protasio, which is mentioned in ancient manuscripts of the 6th century. Rapallo is a very clean, noble and cozy city. In one of the best hotels of the 19th century, located on a high bank near the port, Hemingway liked to stay. Every day, snow-white yachts moor to the shores of Rapallo.

Lerici is a bizarre mixture of buildings, small coves and rocky cliffs that pierce the sparkling sea. This is a favorite vacation spot for residents of the northern part of Italy, as here you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay away from the crowds of foreign tourists. The main attraction of the town is an old medieval castle.

10 Castiglioncello

Castiglioncello is a small town in the province of Livorno, located on a cape washed by the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is surrounded by pine and oak forests, as well as picturesque hills that literally break off and fall down, forming rocks, small bays and cozy bays with charming beaches. Even the ancient Romans and Etruscans, and later the Medici in the Renaissance, could not pass by the beauty of these lands. Recently, Castiglioncello has become famous as a resort town, in which Marcello Mastroianni and Luchino Visconti built their villas. The town allows you to lead a calm and measured lifestyle, eliminating unnecessary fuss and noise. Castiglioncello is a secluded resort for the elite. Mass tourism is an unwritten taboo here. Therefore, Castiglioncello attracts many creative people, including artists who founded the commune here.

Italy - the most detailed information about the country with a photo. Sights, cities of Italy, climate, geography, population and culture.

Italy (Repubblica Italiana)

Italy is a state in southern Europe in the center of the Mediterranean, located mostly on the Apennine Peninsula. The country also occupies a small (northwestern) part of the Balkan Peninsula, the Padan Plain, the Southern Alps and a number of large and small islands in the Mediterranean Sea, including Sicily and Sardinia. Italy borders France in the northwest, Switzerland and Austria in the north, and Slovenia in the northeast. The state also has internal borders with the Vatican and San Marino. This is a country with the greatest cultural, historical and artistic heritage, the cradle of one of the greatest empires in the history of mankind and the Renaissance.

Italy is one of the most unique and charming places in the world. It has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Europe, the world's largest treasure trove of history, culture and art, a favorable warm climate and delicious authentic cuisine. However, Italy is far from perfect. Its historical cities and antiquities are suffering from modern development, the infrastructure is working at its peak, there are problems in the economy and the social sphere. But, having been here, you will definitely fall in love with this country for its violent temperament, reckless disposition, delicious cuisine and special atmosphere.

Useful information about Italy

The population is 60.8 million people (according to this indicator, Italy ranks 23rd in the world).
The area is 301,340 square kilometers.
The language is Italian.
Currency - euro.
Visa - Schengen.
Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
VAT (Tax Free) can be returned from the purchase of 154.94 euros.
The mains voltage is 220 V, 50 Hz. Attention: Italy uses its own electrical connector, so some devices may require an adapter. It can be bought at any supermarket.
Italy is a fairly safe country. The main thing is to follow basic safety rules and beware of scammers in popular tourist places.
Italy is a unitary parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President. The executive branch is the Parliament, headed by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers.

Geography and nature

Italy is located in Southern Europe in the Mediterranean. Most of the country lies on the Apennine Peninsula. The area is mostly hilly and mountainous. From the north, Italy is supported by the Southern Alps, and the Apennine Mountains are located on the peninsula. The territory of the country is located at the point of contact of lithospheric plates, so earthquakes are not rare here. In addition, there are several large volcanoes here: Etna, Vesuvius, etc.

Italy is a huge coastline. The country is washed by the following seas of the Mediterranean waters: the Adriatic and Ionian in the east, the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian in the west. The largest river is the Po River. Large lakes - Garda, Como.

Due to geographical and climatic features, the nature of Italy is very diverse. Although most of the territory has been changed by human activity in antiquity. In the north, on the slopes of the Alps, mixed and coniferous forests grow, on the coast and in the south - subtropical plants. The central part of the country is a mixture of subtropical and temperate latitudes.

Climate

The climate of Italy is very diverse and can be very different from the Mediterranean in some regions. In most of the territory, summers are very warm and dry, and July is the hottest month. Autumn is usually rainy. Winters are cool and wet (hence often foggy) in the north and milder in the south. In the provinces, which are located in the foothills of the Alps, the climate is mountainous. Summers are cool, while winters are cold and snowy.

Best time to visit

Italy has a favorable warm climate. Although it can be quite cold in the Alps and foothills. To choose the best time to visit, you need to weigh several factors: hotel and food prices, weather, cultural events and seasonal atmosphere. The highest season is summer. If you want to come to Italy to explore its wonderful cultural and historical heritage, then it is better to choose the lowest season - winter. The most optimal time in terms of weather and the number of tourists is April-May and September-October.

Story

The history of Italy is very rich and varied. The country during the period of its existence knew ups and downs, was fragmented and united. In ancient times, a great empire arose on its territory - the Roman Empire. And it is Italy that can be called the cradle of Western civilization.

The territory of modern Italy was inhabited more than 50 thousand years ago. The name of the country comes from a tribe of Italians who, in the 5th century BC, inhabited a small part of the Emilia-Romagna region. Already in the 3rd century, Italy was understood to mean the entire peninsula up to the Rubicon River, and in the 2nd century, the territory up to the slopes of the Alps. In the pre-Roman period, the Ligurians, Etruscans, Umbrians and even the Gauls lived here.

In 753 BC, Rome was founded on the Tiber River. The Romans gradually began to spread their influence over the entire Apennine Peninsula. Rome was originally ruled by 7 kings. In 509, the kings were replaced by a republic. During the Republican period, an active military expansion to other tribes began. By the 3rd century BC, Rome had conquered much of present-day Italy.

In 390, the Gauls defeated the Roman army, captured and burned Rome.

The growth of the power of Rome and the spread of its influence in the Mediterranean led to a clash with Carthage. As a result of the three Punic wars, Carthage was destroyed, and its territory became part of the republic. In the 1st century, the republic was shaken by internal conflicts. First there was an uprising of slaves led by Spartacus. Later, a civil war broke out, in which Julius Caesar won. He established a dictatorship and laid the foundations for an empire.

After the assassination of Julius Caesar, power passed to Octavian Augustus, who is considered the founder of the Roman Empire. After the death of the first Roman emperor, power passed to Tiberius, who became the first of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The Claudian dynasty ended in the middle of the 1st century AD with the assassination of Nero. Further, until the end of the 1st century, Rome was ruled by the Flavian dynasty, which was replaced first by the Antonin dynasty, and later by the Severs. During this period, the Roman Empire reached the peak of its power and development, owning almost all of southern Europe, a huge part of Western Europe and North Africa.

The fall of Rome began in the 4th century. In 330 Emperor Constantine founded Constantinople and moved his capital there. At the end of the 4th century, the Western and Eastern Roman Empires were formed. In the 5th century, the Vandals and Visigoths invaded Italy. Rome was taken and sacked, and the mighty ancient empire fell. The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) existed after that for almost a thousand years and fell only in the 15th century.

In the 5th century, the Ostrogoths conquered Italy. In the 6th century, the kingdom of the Lombards arose in the north. In the 8th-11th century, Italy was part of the Frankish empire. Its southern part during this period was captured by the Normans. In the 11th-13th centuries, the Frankish empire was destroyed. The power was concentrated in the "hands" of the Popes. The Kingdom of Sicily and several free states in Northern Italy arose.

In the 13th and 15th centuries, the power of the popes was greatly reduced. Many states arose on the territory of Italy: the kingdom of Naples, the Papal States, the republics and Genoa, Savoy, Milan. At the end of this period, the Renaissance began, with Florence as its cradle.

At the end of the 15th - the first half of the 16th century, several Italian wars broke out. The first Italian war arose because of French claims to the north of the country. French troops occupied Tuscany, Rome and moved towards Naples. But they were stopped by the union of Venice, Milan and Emperor Maximilian. During the second Italian war, France captured Genoa and Milan, and Spain -. As a result of the third war, the Spaniards defeated the French, who were forced to abandon their claims to Italy. In the 16th century, most of its territory was under Spanish influence.

At the beginning of the 18th century, after the War of the Spanish Succession, Italy became part of the Austrian Habsburg Empire. At the end of the 18th century, French troops entered here. At this time, several republics were formed, which later merged into the Italian Republic, in 1805 transformed into a kingdom. During this period, there is a movement for freedom and independence - the Risorgimento. By 1860, the unification of the country around the Sardinian kingdom begins. In 1870, Rome became part of the Italian kingdom, which became its capital.

At the start of World War I, Italy declared its neutrality. But in 1915 she joined the Entente. In 1919, the fascist movement arises here. In 1922, the fascists led by Mussolini came to power. In 1940, Italy entered World War II on the side of Germany. In 1943 she capitulated. Mussolini's regime was overthrown in 1945. In 1947, the Constitution was adopted and the country became a parliamentary republic.

Administrative division

Administratively, Italy is divided into 20 regions: Valle d'Aosta, Lombardy, Trentino Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Liguria, Venice, Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia Romagna, Marche, Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise, Basilicata, Campania , Calabria, Apulia, Sardinia and Sicily. The capital of the country is Rome. The regions, in turn, are divided into provinces, of which there are 110.

Also conditionally Italy can be divided into regions:

Northwestern Italy (Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Valle d'Aosta) is the richest and most developed region of the country. Here is the country's largest port - Genoa, the main financial and business center - Milan, the center of industry and technology - Turin.
Northeast Italy (Emilia Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto) is a diverse region with beautiful Venice and one of the main student cities - Bologna, charming Parma and romantic Verona. Here you can find almost everything: from ski resorts and the natural beauty of South Tyrol to the coast and beaches.
Central Italy (Lazio, Marche, Tuscany, Abruzzo and Umbria) - breathes history, culture and art. Here are the most important sights of the country and the most famous artistic masterpieces. The cities here need no introduction: the eternal city - the legendary Rome, the cradle of the Renaissance and the modern Italian language - Florence, ancient Pisa, Lucca and Siena.
Southern Italy (Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania and Molise) is a southern region with incredible temperament: rugged Naples, dramatic ruins of Pompeii, romantic Amalfi coast and Capri.
The islands of Sicily and Sardinia are beautiful sea and beaches. Here are the most famous resorts in Italy.

Population

In terms of population, Italy ranks fourth in the European Union. Over 90% of the population are Italians. Large diasporas: Romanians, immigrants from North Africa, Albanians. The official language is Italian. German is also spoken in Bolzano and South Tyrol, Slovenian in Trieste and French in Aosta.

The Italians themselves are open, friendly, very temperamental and emotional. Although there are differences between the North and the South. So in the north of Italy people are more closed, punctual and pragmatic, while in the South everything is quite the opposite.

Italians are very traditional, proud of their country and cuisine. They love their region very much, have fun and eat well.

Transport

Major international airports:

Rome - with two airports: Fiumicino (FCO - Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino for low cost airlines.
Milan - with two airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN). In addition, there is an airport in Bergamo (BGY - Orio al Serchio).
Bologna (BLQ - Guglielmo Marconi).
Naples (NAP - Capodichino).
Pisa (PSA - Galileo Galilei).
Venice (VCE - Marco Polo).
Treviso (TSF - Antonio Canova).
Turin (TRN - Sandro Pertini).
Palermo (PMO - Punta Raisi).
Catania (CTA - Vincenzo Bellini).
Bari (BRI - Palese).
Genoa (GOA - Cristoforo Colombo).

Railway communication connects Italy with Germany (via Munich), Austria (Vienna, Innsbruck, Villach), France (Paris, Lyon, Nice), Switzerland (Basel, Geneva), Spain (via Barcelona). High-speed trains run to the largest cities in Italy: Rome, Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Naples.

Separately, it is worth noting the highways that permeate the entire country. These roads are simply of excellent quality and do not differ in any way from the famous German autobahns, except that they are paid. When entering the motorway, you need to take a special ticket. When leaving, you need to give this ticket to the cashier or insert it into a special machine. Cash and bank cards are accepted for payment. Payment methods are indicated on special signs.

Cities of Italy

Italy has hundreds of popular cities worth visiting. Almost every city boasts interesting sights and rich history. But there are places that you must see. Our Top 10 cities in Italy:

Rome is the capital of Italy and one of its oldest cities. A place where history literally froze on the streets, and sights have long become symbols of the whole country.
- one of the most romantic cities in the world. A unique place with canals, bridges, gondolas and wonderful architecture.
Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, the city where Leonardo da Vinci, Dante, Michelangelo and dozens of other geniuses were born. The capital of Tuscany will amaze you with museums and art collections.
Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Modern metropolis, financial and business center of the country. If you are interested in shopping, this is the right place for you.
- the capital of the Italian south. An ancient city with a southern temperament and the birthplace of pizza.
- one of the most romantic cities in Italy, where you can touch the history and feel like the heroes of Shakespeare.
Bologna is the gastronomic capital of the country, a city of youth, culture and art.
Pisa is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany with the famous leaning tower.
Turin is the first capital of the United Italy, a city of industry and technology.
Genoa is the largest Italian port, a city with a rich history and many attractions.

Other places of interest:

Lake Garda and Como, as well as the pearl of the Dolomites - Braies.
The Italian Alps and South Tyrol - picturesque nature and stunning mountains.
Amalfi is a rocky coastline with beautiful towns.
The Cinque Terre are charming seaside towns on the Ligurian coast.
Pompeii and Herculaneum are the ruins of ancient cities destroyed during the eruption of Vesuvius.
Sardinia - stunning beaches and seascapes.

Attractions

Italy has so many attractions that no other country in the world has. There are 53 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on its territory. Only listing the main attractions will take several pages. Therefore, only symbolic sights are indicated here.

A grandiose antique amphitheater and probably the most famous attraction in Italy. Located in Rome. It was built in just 8 years. The construction was started by Emperor Vespasian and finished by Titus.

The Colosseum is made in the form of a giant ellipse. This is the largest amphitheater of antiquity, striking in its size - the outer axis is 524 meters long, the area is 85 x 53 meters, and the height is from 48 to 50 meters. This is one of the most striking and huge structures of ancient Rome.

One of the greatest domed structures in the world. It was built between 25-27 AD. consul Mark Vipsanius Agrippa and rebuilt in 126 after a fire during the reign of Hadrian. Pantheon means "temple of all gods". This is one of the best preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

The heart of the Roman Empire, the main political and social center of ancient Rome. It is a rectangular square surrounded by the remains of ancient buildings and temples. The Roman Forum is located in the valley between the Capitoline and Palatine hills in the center of the capital of Italy.

The Vatican is the heart of the Catholic world, a mini-state in the center of Rome. Here is the largest Christian church in the world. And the Vatican Museums display great treasures of art.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the famous leaning tower, the main symbol of Pisa. It was conceived as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. It was built for almost two centuries from the 12th century. The height of the tower is more than 50 meters, and the deviation from the axis is at least 4%.

Santa Maria del Fiore is the main attraction and one of the most recognizable symbols of Florence. A beautiful and imposing cathedral with pink, white and green marble decoration in the Gothic style and located in the historic center on Piazza Duomo. Santa Maria del Fiore was built on the site where once stood the ancient cathedral of the capital of Tuscany - Santa Reparata, the remains of which are visible in the crypt.

Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente is a symbol of Milan, located in the heart of the city on the square of the same name. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world (accommodates about 40,000 people) and probably the most beautiful Gothic church. The Duomo was built over 4 centuries from the 14th century. Its roof is topped with 135 spiers and the façade is adorned with 2,245 marble statues.

Amalfi is a stunning stretch of coast south of Naples with picturesque towns that climb steep cliffs.

Venice is a city of amazing beauty, which is an attraction in itself. More than 20 million tourists come here to see the charming canals, graceful architecture and bridges, ride gondolas, walk along San Marco, see the Rialto Bridge, buy glassware on the island of Murano and photograph the colorful houses of Burano. The historic center of Venice is built on 118 islands in the Venetian lagoon.

Pompeii is a legendary ancient city that was destroyed during the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD at the height of its power. Despite the lava flows and tons of ash that buried the city and its inhabitants, it has been preserved in a fantastic state.

Accommodation

In major cities and popular tourist areas, you can find a variety of accommodation options, from world-class hotels to family hotels and apartments. One caveat - there are few hostels in Italy. In Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Abruzzo, Sardinia, Apulia and Emilia Romagna, agritourism is becoming more and more popular. In Italy, you can find many charming hotels with two stars or less.

The cost of living depends on the popularity of the region, place and season. The highest prices for hotels are from May to August. The lowest are in winter. In general, prices for hotels and apartments, compared to the rest of Europe, in Italy are not the highest. Most of the money for living will be needed in Milan, Venice, around Lakes Garda and Como. Although there you can find interesting and cheap options.

Kitchen

Italian cuisine is perhaps the most delicious and varied in Europe. At the same time, the cuisine remains purely regional. Believe me, Italian cuisine is not only pasta and pizza. These are a huge number of dishes and ingredients that can satisfy any gourmet.

Traditional Italian dishes and products:

Pizza is one of the most popular Italian dishes that has spread widely around the world. Each region has its own traditions of its preparation. How pizza is prepared in Italy - it is not cooked anywhere else.
Risotto - rice with meat, vegetables and seafood.
Polenta - corn grits with meat.
Pasta (spaghetti, pasta) with sauces and meat.
Lasagna.
Tortellini - Italian dumplings with cheese and meat
Gelato is ice cream.
Panini sandwiches.
Cheese. Some types of cheese can only be produced in a specific region. More than 800 types of cheese are produced in Italy.
Wine.
Olive oil.
Sausage and ham - more than 400 types.

Wine is the main drink in Italy. Grapes are grown in almost every province, except for the highlands. Each region has strong winemaking traditions.

Italy belongs to the list of countries for which tourism is an important component of the economy. The industry brings significant income, as it satisfies the most diverse needs of the guests of the state. There is something to see for lovers of architecture and antiquity: from Rome to Florence, where unique sights of the past have been preserved. Inveterate romantics without fail visit Venice and Verona. Fans of a serene holiday will easily choose one of the beaches of Positano. Gourmets and wine connoisseurs will appreciate the cuisine of Sorrento. Not the last role in the list is played by religious tourism, such as pilgrimages to the Vatican. Developed infrastructure helps to get to exotic places and enjoy comfort even in the conditions of provincial Italy.

Italy - list of the most interesting and beautiful cities

The best cities and resorts for holidays in Italy

Rome

All roads, as you know, lead to Rome - a city where history and modernity collided and were tightly intertwined. Here is the oldest European aqueduct, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, many iconic squares and more than nine hundred churches. Since ancient times, there has been a rather small area of urban development, especially when compared with other capitals. Another feature is that it is good to come here at any time of the year.

Venice

The fact that Venice is slowly sinking into the water only adds to the popularity of the city. More than a hundred islands have become a single entity, and it is customary to move between them on gondolas or river buses. Numerous bridges and frescoes are the main attractions of the city, where every little thing is connected with an important stage in history. It also hosts the Venice Film Festival, a world-class status event.

Milan

Milan does not get tired of competing with the capital for the title of the most popular city in the country. In addition to architectural sights from the past, there are enough trends of the present. Milan is the center of high fashion. Both the shows of famous designers and simple shopping attract tourists every year. Theater La Scala has not lost ground for many decades. And football is the second religion for local and visiting fans.

Florence

Created as a cultural and commercial center, Florence continues to be so. At different times, prominent citizens of Italy lived and worked here: da Vinci, Galileo, Michelangelo, Dante and others. Galleries, cathedrals, palaces and squares are the main goals of tourist groups. They introduce you to the spirit of the city, which is quite cozy and green, given the density of buildings.

Sorrento

Another Italian city located on the coast. Its development was influenced by different peoples and countries, so there is enough color here. Visitors take with them porcelain figurines produced by a small manufactory, and liqueurs. Neapolitan music was born here and is popular all over the world. Seafood dishes and olives grown nearby are the hallmark of the region.

Verona

Verona owes its popularity primarily to Shakespeare. The fictional characters of his "Romeo and Juliet" made the city one of the romantic centers of the world. Another reason for the endless tourist flow is architecture. Several eras and styles coexist perfectly side by side. The streets are lined with ancient Roman and medieval buildings and monuments, as well as churches and palaces of later periods.

Positano

After World War II, many artists from different countries, including the USSR and Germany, moved here. They attracted the attention of the world community to the city. Sunny weather, mountainous scenery and long beaches make tourists come throughout the year. The commune is a great place for sedate rest: leisurely walks, a couple of hours on a sunbed and local cuisine.

Naples

The proximity of Naples to Vesuvius does not bother tourists at all. But the criminal situation on the streets is overgrown with legends and may scare away some potential guests of the city. Naples is the birthplace of special music and pizza. The neighborhood of modernity and architectural monuments of different periods is very noticeable here. The resulting contrast is the highlight of a region that advocates diversity.

Turin

The fourth most populous city in Italy. Several of the local palazzos and castles are included in the UNESCO heritage list. The Shroud of Christ is kept in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The museum of Egyptian culture stands out from the general ensemble, which, however, has become popular. Football occupies an important place in the life of the city, since the Juventus club is based in Turin.

Palermo

The Royal Palace of Palermo - a lot of styles brought together: the Arab approach, the work of Constantinople masters, the symbiosis of wood and stone, not to mention the uniqueness of the interior decoration. There are about three hundred churches, cathedrals and former monasteries in the city. They also belong to different eras. A gloomy but unique attraction is an underground cemetery with eight thousand graves.

Ischia

A small volcanic island located in the Gulf of Naples. Most of the sights here are natural, but there is an exception - an ancient fortress, rebuilt into an Aragonese castle. Tourists are more attracted to thermal springs, a medical resort that uses them, as well as sulfide silt mud, a botanical garden and volcanic emissions of water vapor.

Bologna

Despite the constant development and growth, Bologna has retained the atmosphere of the old city. The local university is one of the most respected in Europe. Tourists never bypass numerous squares with their arches, unique architecture and monuments. In the vicinity of the city there is a monumental cemetery, more like an object of art.

Genoa

The largest port in Italy is located in Genoa. Palazzi dei Rolli is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is largely typical of a typical city in the north of the country. The surroundings are rich in interesting places. Here is the largest aquarium in Europe. And the marble tombstones of the Staglieno cemetery are no less valuable and majestic than the city monuments.

Cagliari

The historic center of Cagliari will not leave anyone indifferent. Along with architectural monuments, here you can find modern shops, cozy restaurants with local cuisine and wines. The archaeological museum will allow you to get acquainted with the history of the region. There is also a botanical garden and art festivals. The rest of the time, tourists spend mostly not on the beaches, if the weather allows.

Catania

Catania is located at the foot of Mount Etna. The city was built mainly in the Baroque style from dark volcanic stone. Cathedral Square is the heart of Catania. Wide and narrow streets diverge from it, where you can meet churches, fountains, statues and other beauties in a chaotic manner. The fish market is an addition to the local color that stands out from the general decor.

Syracuse

There are not many historical monuments in Syracuse. The most important of them can be bypassed in less than one day. These include Piazza Arcimede, the Cathedral of Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo, the Arethusa Fountain, the Grotticelli Necropolis, the Maniace Castle, the Gothic Theater and others. There are museums focused on different time layers. The city is also famous for its Drama Festival in May and June.

Pisa

It's not just a leaning tower. Numerous palaces, cathedrals and simpler buildings, decorated with frescoes, as well as galleries created during the heyday of the Medici family - this is the true look of the city. The local cuisine will test the taste buds of gourmets, as it is often spicy and aromatic. Pisa is quieter than other tourist centers. It is less crowded, but in demand.

Lucca

A city for those who like to follow not only all known tourist routes. In the middle of the plain of the Serka River, you can admire nature and sights and escape the hustle and bustle of megacities. A special pride of the locals is the Guinigi tower with its oaks growing directly on the upper platform. The fortress walls and fortifications are better preserved here than in any city in Italy.

Padua

The outskirts of Padua are a place of concentration of villas that once belonged to the Venetians. The city itself is a haven for the remains of St. Luke, the author of one of the Gospels. Astronomy lovers will be able to examine in detail the numerous frescoes on this subject. The palace and defensive redoubts are also perfectly preserved and accessible to the public. And the Botanical Garden of Padua is included in the list of UNESCO monuments.

Rimini

The city is considered the center of the Roman Riviera. Rimini has many beaches with rich entertainment programs and parks within walking distance. The cuisine is simple and colorful at the same time: Parma ham and mortadella sausage are beyond competition. Antiquity lovers can explore the ruins of the amphitheater or the arched bridge from the time of Tiberius. There are also churches here, one of which contains part of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.

Trieste

Outwardly, it looks quite modern, although some prints of past centuries have been preserved in it. Tourists are interested in the ruins of ancient Greek buildings, the tombs of contenders for the Spanish throne, several castles, one of which was built on the basis of a Venetian fortress. The beach of Trieste is divided for vacationers by gender, which is an exceptional case for Europe.

Lecce

The buildings in Lecce are invariably flashy. No matter what period of construction they belong to, there is something attractive in the architecture of the whole city. The ancient amphitheater does not stand idle: even now artists give performances in it. The Basilica of Santa Croce looks a little more modest, but the interior painting is amazing. Politeama Greco is an old theater with great sound. As for the cuisine: it is traditionally "poor", simple and satisfying.

San Gimignano

The development of San Gimignano largely stopped in the Middle Ages in terms of expansion and building density. Well-preserved walls and stone towers, from a distance looking like skyscrapers. There are fourteen of them in total, the highest reaching fifty meters. The historic center of the city is rich in frescoes and amazing buildings from different periods. And the local museum consists of ten galleries.

Salerno

A seaside town with a rich history. The mild climate allows you to relax on the sea almost all year round, albeit in different qualities. Indigenous people are hospitable and love to bargain. A whole street is dedicated to the sale of souvenirs and other shops. The sights are varied: numerous palaces, Mercatello Park, Minerva's garden, fragments of an ancient waterfall, the fortress of Areki and others.

Perugia

Picturesque city surrounded by greenery. The panorama of the area is impressive, but in fact the streets here are quite narrow. There is little architecture of historical value. Although there are churches built in different centuries. The wedding ring of the Virgin Mary is kept in St. Lawrence Cathedral. Many shops open throughout the city add to the noise. The locals love to hold festivals.

Sienna

The center of Siena is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The old town has been perfectly preserved, its narrow streets and cramped buildings are the face of the region. It is in Siena that the Palio festival is held - a horse racing competition in the square between the Sienese contradas. The event is divided into two dates. The school of painting of the same name, which has its own traditions, was born in the city.

Taormina

In Taormina, at every step you can find something amazing and ancient. Most of the churches were built between the 15th and 17th centuries. The Greek theatre, naumachium and odeon are well preserved, and the latter has geographical features of the location that distinguish it from similar structures. The squares, castles and towers are in a different state: some are fully functional, some are in need of reconstruction.

Bergamo

The city is divided into two halves: old and new. They are located at different heights and are connected by a funicular. There are many attractions in Bergamo: the fortress wall, the Colleoni Chapel, the Baptistery, the Covered Staircase, the City Palace and others. It is noteworthy that with such a rich and diverse collection of interesting objects, the city is not included in most tourist routes.

Cinque Terre

The association of five settlements received a common name - the Cinque Terre. Car traffic is almost completely prohibited here. In one of the villages it is allowed, but with restrictions. Among the must-see sights are the statue of Neptune, an impressive size, the Aurora Tower, the local confectionery and wine cooperative, the Capuchin monastery and the path of love. Walking between them is worth admiring the beauties of nature.

Vatican

The Vatican City State is the seat of the Pope. Pilgrims flock to the Holy See-ruled enclave from all over the world, regardless of religion. The main attractions are predictably connected with Catholicism: St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Library and others. The city is also interesting for its decoration and traditions. There are few residents here, and they have special passports.

This is one of the most popular holiday countries among tourists from all over the world. The rich history of Italy, its colorful architecture, warm sea and beautiful beaches will appeal to everyone. This is a country of celebration, entertainment, sparkling wine and famous Italian cuisine.

Popular tourist cities in Italy are majestic Rome, romantic Venice, trendy Milan, inspiring Florence, amazing Verona and the pearl of the south Naples. Each of them is unique and unique in its own way, and having visited them, you will definitely want to return there.

City of Rome

The capital of Italy and the most populous city in this country is the majestic. The visiting card of the city of the Colosseum is the ancient Arena, built back in the distant year 72 of the beginning of our era. The Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Sistine Chapel, and many other sights amaze with their splendor.

In the vicinity of the city there is a small state of the Vatican, the main Catholic center of the whole world. Every year it is visited by a huge number of tourists. Rome is a striking combination of modern buildings with ancient buildings.

City of Venice

Have a good rest in the best cities of Italy!