5 Can’t Miss Destinations You Should Visit on Your Italian Summer Getaway
When summer rolls around, it’s time to decompress, go outdoors, and enjoy an adventure. Spending summer in Italy is second nature to us, but you may be surprised by all Italy has to offer during the season in the sun. In addition to some of the friendliest locales and most amazing scenery, Italy’s long days, famous hiking trails, and breathtaking beaches are just the beginning. Whether you’re making plans now or just daydreaming of an Italian paradise, here are some of the places we think you should see on your Italian holiday.
Venice
Feel like strolling the streets of Venice? How about enjoying the picture-perfect scenery from the local canals in a gondola? Venice offers plenty to keep travelers busy, so pick where you want to spend your day and plan accordingly. You’ll find plenty of amazing shops and eateries all within easy walking distance. If you appreciate our beautiful Home Fragrance Diffusers, stop in at the Original Murano Glass Furnace & Show Room to see live glass blowing demonstrations and to pick up something memorable from your travels. Be sure to reserve your place in advance since daily tours cease at 4:00 p.m.
Head to the Coast
Oceanside destinations in Italy grow more crowded and popular as the summer stretches on, but early June visitors to the Amalfi Coast have a lot of options. With Campania nearby, your coastal visit can include hiking Mt. Vesuvius, viewing the ancient ruins of Pompeii, or enjoying a guided or self-guided walking tour.
The Colosseum
No visit to Rome would be complete without a stop at the most recognizable monument in Italy: the Colosseum. Unless you’re a history buff, we recommend booking reservations with a semi-private “skip-the-line” tour company, so you’ll have an English-speaking guide with detailed information about the venue. Smaller tours often allow access to the underground chamber areas, which aren’t normally accessible to the public. You may even be given access to the Arena floor, where the gladiators fought.
The Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter’s Basilica
The artistic frescoes of Michelangelo are bigger than life inside the Sistine Chapel, but this destination can be one of the most crowded stops on your Italian holiday. On average, 150,000 people visit the Sistine Chapel in a week, which makes reservations a must. Make sure you pack appropriate clothing as well for this venue. Even in summer, male and female visitors are expected to wear shirts with sleeves and slacks. Ultra-casual apparel is prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel as well as the surrounding gardens, museums, and Saint Peter’s Basilica. And since taking photographs or videos is strictly prohibited, plan to leave your phone in a safe place, or it will be temporarily stored on-site until your visit concludes.
The Wine Country
Even if wine isn’t your favorite libation, you don’t want to pass up an opportunity to visit the wine producers in the Tuscan countryside. Along with tasting some of the region’s finest Chianti, many cellars offer olive oil tasting as well as food pairings featuring specialties from the region, like cured ham, salami, and cheese. Join a small tour group to enjoy safe tasting with a designated driver.
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Wherever your travels take you in Italy, we’re certain your visit will provide fond memories for years to come.
